They walked out to the circular driveway where two sleek black SUVs were waiting idling.
A tall man named Sam opened the rear passenger door for Marcus and Sarah.
Sarah climbed inside, feeling overwhelmed by the luxurious leather seats and quiet engine.
Marcus sat beside her, checking his expensive silver watch with a sharp glance.
Marcus: Drive to Westridge High School, Sam, and step on it.
The driver nodded once and pulled out of the long estate gates with high speed.
Sarah pressed her forehead against the cool glass window as trees flashed past.
Sarah: What if they are already waiting for him at the school gates?
Marcus: My team will reach him first.
Marcus turned his head to look at her trembling hands folded in her lap.
Marcus: How long have you worked for my estate, Sarah?
Sarah: Almost two years, sir.
Marcus: And you never asked for help when your family was struggling?
Sarah: It was my responsibility to take care of my brother alone.
Marcus gave a subtle, respectful nod as he leaned back into his seat.
Marcus: Pride is honorable, but letting cruel men bully you is not required.
The SUV turned sharply onto the street leading directly to the high school entrance.
Yellow school buses were parked in neat rows along the sidewalk.
Students were already pouring out of the double glass doors with heavy backpacks.
Sarah spotted Leo standing near a concrete bench, looking nervously at his phone.
Two men in heavy leather jackets were approaching Leo from the side parking lot.
Sarah: That is him, and those two men are Victor's thugs!
Marcus slammed his palm against the door armrest before the car fully stopped.
Marcus: Sam, block their path right now.