He didn't just trap me.
He cut me off.
Completely.
My mind raced.
Think.
Think.
There had to be something.
I ran to the window—pushed it open.
Fresh air hit my face, but it didn't help.
Too high.
Way too high.
The ground looked distant.
Unreachable.
Safe—for everyone except me.
I stepped back, pacing again, faster this time.
Every second felt like time slipping through my fingers.
What if something already happened?
What if I was too late—
Again.
"No."
The word came out sharp.
Not this time.
Not again.
My eyes scanned the room—desperate, searching.
Chair.
Table.
Glass.
My gaze stopped.
The window.
If the door wouldn't open—
Then I'd make my own way out.
My pulse spiked.
This was insane.
Dangerous.
But staying here?
Worse.
I grabbed the chair, dragging it across the floor with a harsh screech.
Positioned it near the window.
My hands trembled—but I didn't stop.
Couldn't.
"Just… once…" I muttered under my breath.
"Don't freeze this time."
I climbed onto the chair.
The height made my stomach drop instantly.
Wind rushed past, cold against my skin.
Too far.
Too risky.
I hesitated.
Just for a second.
And that was enough for doubt to creep in—
What if I fall?
What if I can't make it?
What if—
A memory flashed.
Her hand reaching out.
Blood.
And me—
Not moving.
My jaw tightened.
"No."
Not again.
I stepped onto the edge.
Balancing.
Unsteady.
My heart slammed violently against my ribs.
This time—
I would move.
No matter what.
And just as I shifted my weight forward—
A voice came from behind.
Cold.
Calm.
Terrifyingly close.
"Try that…"
My entire body froze.
"…and I swear I won't be the one saving you."
My breath stopped.
Slowly—
too slowly—
I turned.
Cheng Mo stood by the door.
Watching.
Like he had never really left.