Chapter 45

A sharp scream rang out in her ears, and Emily froze, completely stunned. James had pulled her into his arms, shielding her. In just an instant, sweat was already dripping down his forehead. “J-James…” Emily scrambled out of his arms, frantically tearing at his jacket and shirt. His entire back was charred black, the smell of concentrated acid burning her nose. Daniel finally snapped out of it, yelling, “Quick! Get some water! Call an ambulance!” He wrestled the attacker to the ground — it was Sophie's mother. The crowd went into chaos. But Emily stayed eerily calm, nearly emotionless. She ripped her dress and gently wiped at James's exposed skin. “D-Don't be scared…” James gave a faint smile before passing out cold. Her hands froze. Only then did she realize how bad they were shaking. Outside the ER, her eyes were dull, unfocused. Daniel didn't go comfort her like he usually would. He just stared at his hands, stunned. In that crucial moment… he hadn't moved. Or maybe he had hesitated