Noelle's expression morphed from bewilderment to uncontrollable fury in an instant. Her fingers curled into tight fists, and she took a determined step toward the bar where Connor stood, completely unaware of the tempest brewing across the room.
"That absolute bastard," Noelle whispered venomously, her voice dangerously low. "I'm going to—"
"Stop!" Miranda seized Noelle's arm, yanking her backward before she could advance further. "Not here. Not now."
"Why the hell not?" Noelle's eyes flashed with rage as she struggled against Miranda's restraining grip.
Kitty glanced between them, visibly perplexed yet captivated by the sudden tension. "Hold on, what's happening?"
Miranda's thoughts scrambled for an explanation. She couldn't reveal the truth—not here, not like this. Kitty was Nolan's sister, and whatever complicated history existed between Connor and Collins would create exactly the kind of chaos Collins was desperately trying to avoid.
