Alex Was Starting to Panic
Alex began pacing to release some of the pressure building inside him. His thoughts drifted back to the first days he met Sarah—young, vulnerable, and easily influenced. Back then, he’d promised, “I’ll take care of you,” but that care soon turned possessive. His protectiveness morphed into control.

He’d hidden it behind concern, but he always needed to be present, always in charge. As he paced, a police officer walked by. His heart lurched. For a moment, panic nearly overtook him. But with practiced control, he stopped, took a deep breath, and relaxed his shoulders, masking the storm beneath the surface.
