Hanging by a Thread

Avery Miller sat on the ground, trembling with fear, unable to believe what was happening. 

"Is it Natalie Green? Did Natalie Green send you?" she stammered, her forehead covered in cold sweat, her lips quivering, eyes wide with terror.

The mysterious assailant remained silent, advancing towards her with the knife raised, exuding an aura of death with every step closer to her.

"No, please... don't come any closer..." Avery's nerves were shattered. 

She tried to scoot back, her legs devoid of any strength, her hands failing to grasp the grass behind her.

As the assailant moved closer, the knife flashing ominously, Avery braced for the pain, shutting her eyes tight. 

However, the expected agony never came. Opening her eyes, she found herself shielded by a body—his body.

"Elijah Martinez!" she cried out in shock.