"Get out of my way, Gabriel!" Colin’s voice was hoarse with rage, his hand trembling as he pointed the gun directly at me. My heart raced, but I stood my ground, trying to keep my breathing steady.
"You're not going to hurt her, Colin," Gabriel said, stepping in front of me without hesitation. His broad frame became my shield, blocking Colin's view of me. "This ends now."
Colin laughed bitterly, his face twisted with years of bitterness and failure. "Ends? Oh no, Gabriel. This is just the beginning. You think you've won? Stolen everything from me? My wife, my daughter, my reputation?" His voice cracked, and he jabbed the gun toward us. "You ruined my life!"
I tightened my grip on Gabriel’s arm, whispering urgently, "We have to de-escalate this. He’s not thinking straight."
Gabr
