Inside the office…
Zara's mind was foggy, and her sight blurred. The dense smoke burned her throat, making every breath painful. Still, she forced herself toward the door, grabbed the knob, and twisted—but it wouldn't open.
"Help…" she rasped, pounding weakly on the door. "Someone… open it…" But no one came.
Her voice had turned raw, her strength draining fast. A violent cough shook her body, and she slumped to the floor, barely clinging to consciousness.
'Is this how it ends?'
In her previous life, Riya had murdered her. And now, once again, she was on the brink of death because of the same woman. The realization twisted her heart with regret.
'What a waste,' she thought bitterly. 'Even with a second chance, I couldn't punish Riya… I couldn't avenge myself or my child.'
Just when she accepted her fate, the door burst open. A tall silhouette rushed in, and through the haze, she recognized the figure bending down and sweeping her into protective arms.
