142 Cheat

Stefan, ever observant, noticed the subtle shift in Ruby's demeanor. She went from animated and engaged in the conversation to stiff and glancing around the club furtively.

A frown creased his forehead as he followed her gaze, searching for anything out of place. Seeing nothing amiss, his concern grew. He leaned in closer to Ruby, his voice barely a whisper.

"Rub, everything alright? You suddenly look pale."

Ruby jumped slightly at the unexpected question, startled from her silent panic. She forced a smile, trying to appear nonchalant.

"Yeah, I'm fine. Just a bit tired, I guess," she said, not wanting to talk to Stefan about it for fear that the blackmailer might be watching and know that she had told someone else.