Chapter 43

• Aria stood frozen, the gun trembling in her grip as she pointed it toward the three guards, their eyes wide with fear and desperation. Her hands shook uncontrollably, and she felt as if the weight of the world was pressing down on her. The reality of what Dante was asking of her clawed at her insides, and she fought against the rising tide of panic.
• “Do it, Aria,” Dante urged, his voice a low murmur that sent shivers down her spine. “Show them you’re not weak.”
• Just then, she felt Dante’s presence envelop her. He stepped closer, wrapping one arm around her waist, pulling her into him. The warmth of his body contrasted sharply with the cold metal of the gun in her hand. With his other hand, he took hold of hers, steadying her grip on the weapon.