NICOLE POV
The moment I sink into my chair, every muscle in my body gives up.
It's as if they've been waiting for permission.
The adrenaline that has carried me through the last hour drains from my limbs all at once, leaving behind nothing but exhaustion. My hands tremble slightly against the edge of my desk, so I quickly tuck them beneath it before anyone notices.
I close my eyes.
Just for a second.
The familiar hum of keyboards, ringing phones, and quiet conversations slowly settles around me, grounding me in reality.
I'm back.
Back in the Creative Department. Back at my desk. Back where nothing terrifying is supposed to happen.
A shaky breath slips past my lips. I'm safe. At least... I think I am.
"Nicole?"
Jared's voice breaks through the fog clouding my thoughts. I blink an
