Ariana found herself hanging outside the balcony, her heart sinking as she saw Mike glaring down at her. She cursed inwardly, her mind racing.

Unsure of what Mike would do next, Ariana clenched her eyes shut, bracing herself.

In that brief moment of darkness, she saw flashes of a familiar face.

“Theodore—" she murmured, her voice shaking. A single tear trickled down her cheek as she whispered his name.

Suddenly, a voice called out.

"Ariana!"

She opened her eyes, her heart fluttering. It couldn't be— but then, the sound of approaching footsteps confirmed her hopes.

It was Theodore!

Too tired to respond, Ariana focused all her energy on holding onto the balcony edge. Her hand, already wounded, ached with the strain.

Mike, hearing the commotion, knew that Ariana's rescue was near. A murderous rage filled his eyes as he drew a knife, intending to take Ariana down with him asa twisted act of revenge.

This woman was a great pain in the ass. He couldn't let go of her so easily! Even if he had to die, he would make sure that she'll go with him to hell.

Bang!

But then, a gunshot rang out. The bullet found its mark in Mike's shoulder, making him wince in pain. His knife missed Ariana, skimming past her.

Theodore sprinted towards them. As he took in the sight of Ariana's hand sliding from the edge of the balcony, a sharp pang of fear pierced his heart. He needed to get to her, fast.

Racing to the scene, Theodore made a desperate leap, just managing to grab Ariana as her hand slipped from the balcony. It was a narrow escape from tragedy.

Horace and the others, trailing behind, sprung into action to assist, finally managing to pull Ariana to safety.

At the sight of Theodore, exhaustion took hold of Ariana, both physically and emotionally.

Catching sight of the panic on Theodore's face, she opened her mouth to speak but was enveloped in his arms before she could utter a word.

Theodore held her tightly, his embrace so firm it was as though he sought to meld her into his very being. He was trembling uncontrollably, a fear he had never before experienced threatening to overcome him.

What if he had been a moment too late? Would he have lost her forever?