AVA'S POV

I stood over the unconscious meddler, the fire extinguisher still in my pulsing hands.

The weight of what just happened settled heavily on my shoulders.

I had to keep Shantel safe, no matter the cost. Ivy would return with the guards soon, but until also, it was just me and the unconscious man on the bottom.

The room was eerily silent except for Shantel’s steady breathing. I glanced at her, still lying on the bed, ignorant of the chaos that had unfolded.

The sight of her brought a renewed sense of determination. I could not let anything be to her. Not again.

A noise outside the door caught...