Nathan’s car was still parked in front of the auction building, the engine humming quietly. Across the street, Nolan Pierce stood with Eric, smoking a cigarette as Nathan walked toward them.

The memory of that night came back. Sharp, brutal, unforgettable. The bar. The smell of alcohol and smoke. Nolan’s rough hands tearing her blouse while Eric held her down. The slurred insults, the heat of their breath. Only luck and the courage to fight back had saved her from something far worse.

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