As Brodie Hanson's laughter echoed through the air, Scarlet's heart pounded with fear and adrenaline. She had hoped her display of power would be enough to deter him, but it seemed he was unimpressed, dismissing her abilities as nothing more than a bluff.

With lightning speed, Brodie lunged towards Scarlet, his hand poised to strike at her throat. In her shock, she attempted to evade his attack, but her movements were sluggish, her mind still reeling from the current events.

Scarlet tried to escape but Brodie’s strength proved to be superior. He overpowered her, his grip tightening around her throat, cutting off her breath and immobilizing her. Panic surged through...