And then, as if the heavens themselves had answered her prayers, the door to the room slammed open with a force that rattled the walls, sending a sharp, echoing sound through the silence.
Just as it seemed the situation couldn't get any worse, a sound broke through the panic—a sharp, heavy footstep.
Alicia's head snapped up, her tear-filled eyes widening at the door to the room, which burst open with a force that sent a wave of relief rushing over her.
Standing in the doorway, framed by the golden light of the hallway, was a figure—tall, imposing, and carrying an air of authority that made the very room seem to bow to his presence.
It was Nicolas.
Alicia's heart stuttered, caught between the remnants of her terror and the sudden, overwhelming sense of relief. The chaos in her mind stilled, as if his presence alone could quiet the storm raging within her. She could do nothing but stare, her breath hitching, as the familiar figure stepped into the room with purposeful strides.
