"What do you want?" Eileen's keen eyes immediately discerned the ill intent of these individuals. Quietly utilizing Nina's presence as a guise, she discreetly called the police.

"We're not here for anything sinister," the speaker, likely their leader, idly tapped his palm with a stick in hand. "Just that we are short on cash lately and were hoping to borrow some from you folks."

Before Eileen could respond, Rafael stepped forward from behind, each step echoing with purpose as he positioned himself between her and the leader.

The leader stood a full head shorter than Rafael.

He had to crane his neck to fully meet Rafael's gaze.

But as soon...