POV: Harper

The party atmosphere had shifted from raucous laughter and dancing to a tense, suffocating silence, caused only by Serena's cries as Ethan escorted her to the door. Outside, a cool breeze rustled the leaves, a stark contrast to the heated emotions boiling within the house.

Her screams about Ethan’s promise attracted the attention of our guests. They started whispering amongst themselves, speculating about the relationship between Ethan and Serena. I could’ve leave just like that, I had to follow up with Ethan, running to catch up with them and stop him from saying or doing anything that might hurt her.

“Ethan, please…

Don’t hurt her….

Stop, Ethan, please!”...