Page 43 of And Back

Everything feels like it's moving in slow motion.

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

ZOE

The sound of gunshots rings in my ears, sending a chill down my spine. My first instinct is to ensure the safety of everyone around me. I scan the chaotic scene, searching for Sabine and any other potential targets. People are screaming, ducking, and running for cover. My heart pounds in my chest, but I force myself to stay calm.

I spot Sabine cowering behind a pillar, her face pale with fear. Without hesitation, I rush over to her, grabbing her hand and pulling her up. "Stay with me," I say firmly, trying to keep my voice steady despite the fear gnawing at me.

Sabine's eyes widen in surprise, but she doesn't resist. Together, we weave through the panicked crowd, my grip on her hand tight. I know that in moments of real danger, past rivalries mean nothing. We need to get out of here safely.

"Where are we going?" Sabine asks, her voice trembling.

"Somewhere safe," I reply, though I'm not entirely sure where that is yet.

Just then, I spot Dante moving swiftly through the chaos. His presence is calm and reassuring in this havoc. He catches sight of us and quickly makes his way over.

"I’ll get you out of here," Dante says, his tone now showing urgency as he reaches us. "Follow me."

He takes the lead, guiding us through the crowded room with ease. Despite the danger around us, he remains composed and focused on ensuring our safety.

I notice the way Sabine looks at him, with unexpected gratitude and something else—something that somewhat looks like interest.

Dante must have studied beforehand the fashion show’s venue. His steps never falter nor show any hint of indecision as we move towards a safe exit. His knowledge of the venue is saving our lives.

He takes us through back hallways and hidden passages that I never even knew existed. His calm demeanor helps steady my nerves, though I can't help but worry about Virgilio's whereabouts.

We finally reach a small door that leads to an alley behind the building. Dante opens it and gestures for us to go through first. "Stay close," he instructs as we step outside into the cool night air.

Once we're out of immediate danger, I turn to Sabine. "Are you okay?" I ask, my concern genuine.

She nods shakily, while her gaze keeps going back to Dante. "Thank you," she says softly. "I didn't expect you to help me."

“I know you would have done the same for me.” I give her a small, knowing smile.

Dante stands guard by the door, his eyes scanning our surroundings for any sign of further danger.

My heart races as we step into the cool night air. I turn to Dante, my voice shaking with urgency. "What about Virgilio?" I ask, my heart and mind pained with worry for him. The chaos inside the venue is still ringing in my ears, but all I can think about is his safety.

Dante's eyes flicker… with guilt, maybe? He takes a deep breath. "Virgilio and Benedetto are going to sort themselves out," he says calmly, as if this is just another day.

His words don’t sit right with me. Without thinking, I grab his arm, pulling him down to my height. Anger and fear bubble up inside me, and I can't hold back anymore. "Then what are you doing here?! Go help Virgilio!" I scream at him, my voice desperate.

Dante looks taken aback for a moment, then he averts my gaze. He looks ashamed for the first time, and yet, determined. "I can’t, Zoe," he starts, "Virgilio told me not to interfere. He wants to do this by himself."

The meaning of his words hits me hard. Virgilio always tries to carry the burden of his legacy alone, but this time feels different—more dangerous. Lethal.

My mind races with images of him alone, facing Benedetto and his men. I can't let that happen.

"No," I say, shaking my head. "You can't just leave him in there. You have to help him." I start towards the door, but Dante steps in front of me, blocking my path.

"Zoe, stop," he says firmly. "Virgilio can handle himself. He knew this would happen. He needs to do this for himself."

I glare at him, my frustration boiling over. "You don't understand! He could get hurt, or worse! We can't just stand here and do nothing."

Dante's eyes soften, but he remains resolute. "I understand more than you think," he says quietly. "But Virgilio is strong. He knows what he's doing."

Tears well up in my eyes, blurring my vision. Panic overwhelms me as I struggle to speak out my deepest fears. "You don't get it," I whisper, my voice breaking. "I can't lose him again."

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