The Wrong Woman

With that, Nathan bolted out of Sudvilla, with Cole following closely behind.

Mila remained rooted in place, her fists clenching slowly as tears clouded her sight.

She knew Nathan all too well. A man of his mettle would help even a stranger, let alone a friend and colleague in need. Yet, she couldn't approve of his actions as well as shaking off the unease gnawing at her.

Phoebe, alerted by the commotion, dashed out of her room. She caught sight of Cole and Nathan hurriedly leaving.

Rushing downstairs, she asked, "Mila, what's happening? Why are they in such a rush?"

Mila stood motionless, offering no response.

Phoebe approached her. Seeing the tear stains on her face, she grew alarmed and gently held her hand. "Mila, why are you crying? Are you not feeling well?"

Mila closed her eyes, tears trickling down her cheeks. She shook her head, unable to articulate her feelings. It felt as if a heavy weight was pressed upon her chest.

The night sky was shrouded in darkness, without a single star in sight. Two hours had slipped by, and Nathan had yet to return.

a coat, Mila stepped outside, standing beneath the glow of the streetlamp in the

are you out here in the cold?" Phoebe's concerned

to look at her. In that instant, Phoebe noticed a red dot on Mila's forehead. Her face drained

Perplexed, Mila frowned. "What?"

over and throwing herself

muted sound pierced Mila's ears as a suppressed sniper rifle

swift motion, Phoebe lunged forward and enveloped Mila in her embrace. Their bodies spun before they tumbled into the garden bushes. Phoebe shielded Mila and her unborn baby

by panic, lay atop Phoebe. Her breaths came in rapid gasps, her heart raced, and her abdomen ached

face drained of color as

trembling with

as she whispered in anguish, "I'm fine. Mila, stay still,

searched her pockets, realizing it was inside the house. She

there's a sniper! Take cover, call the police, and inform