“I didn’t mean to disrespect you,” he continued, his voice roughened by a mix of frustration and concern.


    “The situation here is almost under control, and I didn’t want you to… leave so soon.


    If I overstepped, I’m sorry.


    I really am.


    ”


    Hannah could feel the sincerity in his voice.


    Eventually, her resistance faltered.


    The fight in her drained away, reced by a weary sigh.


    She turned to face him, her hands finding his face, her touch gentle but firm.


    “I’ll let it slide this time,” she said, her tone softening as she rubbed his cheeks with a hint of affection.


    “But if you ever make a decision about my life without consulting me again, I won’t let you go so easily.


    ”


    A smile tugged at Bryson’s lips as he held her hand, his thumb brushing over her knuckles.


    “Okay,” he said, his voice carrying a promise.


    “I won’t do it again.


    ”


    Buzz.


    Hannah’s phone vibrated in her pocket.


    She pulled it out, ncing at the screen before answering.


    “Hello?” Her expression shifted slightly as she listened, then she hung up and looked at Bryson.


    “Melina’s ne justnded.


    ”


    Bryson’s brow furrowed.


    “Go check on her first.


    I’ll handle things here and meet you afterward.


    ”


    Hannah nodded, already moving toward the door.


    “I’ll take her to the vi.


    If you don’t hear from me,e straight over once you’re done.


    ”


    “Got it.


    ”


    When Melina woke up, the unfamiliarity of her surroundings hit her like a wave.


    She blinked, trying to clear the fog from her mind as she took in the strange room.


    Where was she?


    The sky outside had darkenedpletely, casting deep shadows across the room’s unfamiliar furnishings.


    .


    .


    Library


    Panic wed at her chest as the events leading up to this moment started toe back-threats in a hotel, a desperate attempt to escape, and then… nothing.


    She quickly checked herself over, relieved to find no injuries.


    Her belongings seemed untouched.


    Spotting her phone on the table, she lunged for it, only to find it dead.


    No charger in sight.


    Her heart raced as she scanned the room, trying to piece together where she was and why she wasn’t already dead.


    Whoever had brought her here clearly wanted something from her.


    Quietly, she stood and crept to the door, pressing her ear against it.


    Nothing.


    The silence was unnerving.Têxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She slowly turned the knob and peeked into the corridor.


    Dim, quiet, and empty.


    Perfect.


    She slipped out, her movements cautious and deliberate.


    But then, the sharp click of high heels echoed from downstairs.