They swarmed like hyenas, forcing my jaw apart while scraping up the debris.

Rose thorns gouged my cheeks, drawing blood that mingled with the cloying floral aroma. I gagged on the metallic tang and prickly invasion, my throat raw and protesting.

The crimson chaos blurred my vision. The tokens of affection I'd chosen so carefully were now weaponized against me.

Monica and Jake observed with sadistic smirks, their eyes alight with vindictive triumph.

I glared at them, determined to seek my revenge.

Abruptly, the door burst open, ushering in a squad of men in black tactical gear. "Freeze! Release him now!"