Claudia checked the ID the man handed to her, and the photo indeed matched the man before her.

“Mr. Green, can you recite the number of you ID for me?"

Without hesitation, Gustavo recited his ID number.

"Go help your friend into my car then," Claudia instructed. "I'll drive him to the hospital. Follow us as quickly as you can."

Gustavo let out a breath he hadn't known he was holding and rushed back to his friend. "Are you able to move? I found a Good Samaritan to get you to the hospital. Hurry to her car!"

Xavier Hinchcliffe grimaced, clutching his stomach. The pain was so intense he had no desire to exert himself. He simply allowed Gustavo to help him into Claudia's vehicle.

After buckling Xavier into the passenger seat and closing the door, Gustavo stepped back.

“Thank you. I‘1ll tail your car and catch up shortly."

Claudia glanced at the man beside her. He had his eyes closed and wore a pained expression. There was no mistaking his discomfort.

“Alright, Mr. Green," she said, nodding at Gustavo. "I'll get your friend to the hospital first. Follow as quickly as you can."

It was already late and her plans had been abruptly interrupted, so naturally Claudia felt less than thrilled about the situation.

But she dismissed the thought. It would only take a few minutes out of her night to save this man in pain.

She started the car and drove toward the hospital.

There weren't many people at the hospital at this time of the day. Once she had parked the car, Claudia noticed that Gustavo hadn't shown up yet. She Looked at the man in the passenger seat, debating whether to assist him further.

That was when the man beside her unfastened his seat belt and turned toward her.

“Thank you. It's getting late. You should go home. Gustavo will be here soon."

His voice was low and husky probably because he was feeling uncomfortable.

For some reason, there was a sense of familiarity in his words. Anyone who didn't know them might think that they knew each other.

Claudia looked at him squarely.

“You don't seem well. It would be prudent to wait for Mr. Green before getting out.”

Upon hearing her remark, Xavier paused and looked at her under the car's interior light.

Initially, he'd thought Gustavo was exaggerating. But now, he realized he had indeed flagged down an exceptionally attractive woman.

Xavier squinted and posed a question.

“Aren't you worried we might be up to no good?"