The assassin thought to himself: If I've encountered someone like her, my career might as well be over.

Celia asked directly, "Who sent you? Why are you chasing us?"

"Our target is Melisa. You're just collateral damage. As for who sent us, you're not worthy of knowing," the assassin replied.

Celia raised an eyebrow. "Why are you after Melisa?"

The assassin refused to answer, closing his eyes and putting on a rave face. "Just kill me. I'd rather die than ...