Chapter 32

• A fleeting glimmer flickered in Simon’s eyes, too quick for Carmen to decipher or assign meaning to before it vanished. “Very well,” he said, before looking around. “Let’s go somewhere quiet.”
• Carmen acknowledged his gesture with a nod, allowing him to take her hand as they navigated through the half-dressed individuals meandering near the pool. Rather than guiding her through the crowd gathered around the stage, where a band was jamming, he veered right, leading them towards a set of stairs reserved for staff, appearing as a hidden shortcut. As they approached, Carmen’s attention was drawn to a weighty door that loomed before them.
• With a firm push, Simon opened it, ushering her into a narrow corridor. They were just about to make another turn that would eventually lead them to the emergency elevators when two staff members emerged from ahead, carrying a large platter brimming with an assortment of beverages and snacks.