Chapter 4: A Glimpse of Deception

As Charlie's eyes met the woman's, a shiver ran down her spine. The woman's gaze was unnerving, and Charlie couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. Travis seemed oblivious to the tension, chatting with the dessert shop owner and laughing as he ordered another round of pastries. Charlie tried to brush off the feeling, telling herself she was just being paranoid, but she couldn't shake the sense that the woman was watching her for a reason. Travis noticed Charlie's distraction and followed her gaze to the window. His eyes narrowed as he took in the woman's striking features. "Who's that?" Charlie asked, her voice barely above a whisper. Travis's expression turned guarded, and he hesitated before responding. "I'm not sure. I've never seen her around before." Charlie's eyes remained fixed on the woman, who was now standing with her arms crossed, her eyes never leaving Charlie's face. The dessert shop owner, a friendly woman with a warm smile, approached their table. "Everything okay, folks? You look like you've seen a ghost." Travis forced a laugh. "Just a little surprised by the crowd outside, I think." The owner nodded sympathetically. "I know what you mean. We've had a few... enthusiasts... stop by tonight. But don't worry, I'll make sure you get out of here without any trouble." As she walked away, Travis turned to Charlie and leaned in close. "Listen, I think it's time we got out of here. I have a feeling things are about to get complicated." Charlie nodded in agreement, and they quickly finished their desserts, their eyes darting towards the window every few seconds. As they prepared to leave, the woman from the bar walked into the dessert shop, her eyes locked on Charlie. Travis stood up, his body tense, and wrapped his arm around Charlie's shoulders. "Let's go," he whispered, guiding her towards the back door. They slipped out into the alley, the cool night air a welcome relief after the tension of the dessert shop. But as they walked, Charlie couldn't shake the feeling that they were being herded towards some unknown destination. The woman's eyes lingered in her mind, and she couldn't help but wonder what secrets Travis was hiding. As they turned a corner, Charlie spotted a sleek black SUV waiting by the curb. Travis's driver, a burly man with a kind face, stood by the door, waiting for them. "Time to get you home, miss," he said, opening the door for Charlie. But as Charlie hesitated, Travis's phone buzzed in his pocket. He glanced at the screen, his expression darkening. "I'm sorry, Charlie. I have to take this." As he stepped away to answer the call, Charlie felt a sense of trepidation wash over her. Who was on the other end of that call, and what did they want with Travis?