When Ethan and the police burst into the inner room, they were greeted by a heart-stopping scene. Alan had Grace in a chokehold with one arm, while the other hand gripped a gleaming knife pressed against her slender neck.
The sharp blade had already nicked her skin, and blood trickled down, staining her white shirt. The sight of it burned into Ethan's eyes, each crimson drop more agonizing than the last.
"Don't come any closer!" Alan roared, his voice raw with desperation and madness. "Put down your guns! Everyone, back off!"
The lead officer exchanged a look with Ethan before signaling the other officers to lower their weapons and retreat from the room.
Ethan, however, stood his ground, as still and immovable as a statue.
Alan's eyes narrowed in confusion. "Why aren't you l
