Page 206 of From Rivals to I Do

myself? How dare he act like some kind of savior offering his help, only to mock me moments later? I clench my fists, feeling the heat of my anger radiating

through my body.

But amidst the anger, a flicker of determination ignites within me. I refuse to let Jackson Reed define me or my worth. I've worked too hard to let his

judgment undermine my passion and talent. I take a deep breath, steadying myself, and remind myself of the countless hours I've poured into my art, the

sleepless nights, and the sacrifices made to pursue my dreams.

As the night wears on, I can't help but think about Jackson and our conversation. I know he's a firefighter and a single dad, but that doesn't excuse his

behavior. I don't want anything to do with him, and I'll make sure to avoid him at all costs.

No matter how much I try to think about other things, my mind keeps drifting back to Jackson Reed. I try to shake off the encounter, to dismiss his presence

from my thoughts. Yet his piercing gaze and cutting words linger in the recesses of my mind, fueling a mixture of frustration and curiosity.

I wonder what it is about me that triggers his disdain. Is it simply a clash of personalities or something deeper? There's a part of me that refuses to believe that his hostility is solely based on my chosen career. Perhaps there's a story behind his judgment, a personal reason that fuels his animosity.

Regardless, I make a silent promise to myself to steer clear of Jackson Reed. I have no desire to engage in his petty games or be subjected to his arrogance. I'll focus on my art, on honing my craft, and prove to him and everyone else that I am capable, strong, and deserving of success.

Chapter two

Chapter Two

I'm startled awake by the sound of the fire alarm. I jump out of bed and rush to the window to see what's going on. There's smoke everywhere, and I can hear people shouting in the street below. It takes me just a moment to realize that my building is on fire.

Without thinking, I grab my phone and run toward the door. The deafening sound of sirens fills the air, mingling with the crackling flames that consume the building. Panic and chaos erupt as people scramble to escape the engulfing inferno. Thick smoke billows, obscuring my vision and choking my lungs. Fear clutches at my heart as I search for an exit, my mind racing with desperation.

Flames dance hungrily, consuming everything in their path, and smoke billows thick and suffocating. Panic grips me as I realize I'm trapped, my only escape route blocked by a wall of fire.

Coughing and gasping for air, I frantically search for a way out, but the heat is unbearable, singeing my skin and searing my lungs. The crackling of burning wood and the roar of the flames drown out all other sounds, leaving me disoriented and terrified.

Just when I begin to lose hope, a firm hand grabs my arm, pulling me back from the advancing flames. I turn to see a figure emerging through the haze. It's Jackson, his firefighter gear adorned with soot and sweat, his expression determined. Relief floods through me, but I can see the concern etched on his face.

His face is streaked with soot, and determination is etched in his eyes. I hear screams from inside and instantly turn around! I yell back, trying to break free from his grip. “We are coming to help you!”

“Maya!" he shouts, his voice barely audible over the raging fire. "What are you doing? You can't go in there!" "Stay low and follow my lead!"

I nod, my trust in him overshadowing our previous animosity. I drop to my knees and crawl toward him through the thick smoke. Each inch feels like an eternity, the air thick with the acrid scent of burning wood and fear.

Trusting his instincts, I cling to his hand as we navigate the treacherous path, the heat intensifying with each passing step. He guides me with firm but gentle touches, ensuring that I stay low and away from the worst of the smoke. It's as if his strength and experience are protecting me from the wrath of the fire.

We emerge onto a narrow balcony, the searing heat and acrid smoke pressing in on us. Panic threatens to overwhelm me, but I see a glimmer of reassurance in Jackson's eyes, a silent promise that he won't let anything happen to me.

"Stay here," Jackson tells me, his voice firm. "I'll go get him."

I nod, my heart racing as I watch Jackson disappear into the smoke. I can hear him shouting, and then there's a loud crash. I'm about to go in after him when I see him emerge from the room, carrying the man over his shoulder.

As we make our way back down the stairs, I can feel the adrenaline pumping through my veins. But I'm also acutely aware of the warmth of Jackson's body next to mine, the strength of his arms as he carries the man to safety.

With strength and agility, Jackson takes the lead, guiding us to a fire escape ladder. The blistering heat singes my skin, and I cough, the taste of smoke stinging my throat. Fear pulses through my veins, but Jackson's unwavering presence lends me the courage to continue.

As we descend the ladder, each rung feels like a lifeline, bringing us closer to safety. My fingers ache from gripping the cold metal, and my legs tremble with exhaustion. But I refuse to give up, fueled by the determination to survive.

Sweat beads on my forehead, mingling with the soot on my face. I steal a glance at Jackson, his expression focused and unwavering. His actions speak volumes, his bravery evident as he risks his life to save mine.

Finally, we reach solid ground, the cool night air washing over us like a balm. The outside world comes into focus once again, the crackling flames now muffled by the distance. I take deep breaths, my lungs grateful for the fresh oxygen.

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