The moment the stranger stepped from the tree line, silence reigned. His presence, although calm, was undeniable, like the sea itself: beautiful, deep, and hiding untold power.
Alex shifted slightly in front of the girls, his hand subtly raised behind him to signal caution.
He was on full alert, and the man could tell that.
He raised both palms slowly, a small, disarming smile on his face. "Please, there is no need for alarm. I mean no harm. I was simply... intrigued."
His voice flowed like water, smooth and steady, soothing despite the tension that clung to the air.
His sea-blue robes fluttered lightly in the breeze, and his skin shimmered with a faint iridescence, as though kissed by ocean light. The aura he gave off was undeniably powerful, yet restrained.
"Intrigued?" Alex asked coldly, one brow raised.
Did that man come here because he saw them as entertainment?
The man's next words, however, explained what he meant.
