“Whoever had the nerve to do this had better come forward before my patience runs out!” Alfonso yelled, filled with anger. Alfonso’s words echoed around the large hall as the throng gathered, carrying a sense of calm. The full spectrum of participants, from the prestigious visitors to the dedicated staff members, had arrived for the event. Alfonso called for the attendance of everyone on staff; this included the cooks and other kitchen workers. The hush of the great hall was broken only by Alfonso’s measured, authoritative tone. The guards’ presence contributed to the quiet. Ella’s gaze darted to Reid, giving him a brief glimpse. The hall became silent, the air thick with tension. He stared intently at the staff as if trying to penetrate its depths and learn its secrets. Ella extended he