Kidnapping... who?

A sudden burst of light illuminated the surroundings, blinding her vision.... That was all Sandra saw before—without warning—something yanked her away from the spot.

...

...

Crack. Crack.

"Arrhh"

The sharp sound of debris crumbling echoed through the air, Her eyelashes fluttered as consciousness returned, and slowly, her eyes opened. The first thing she saw was Aether, his face hovering over hers, wearing a soft, reassuring smile.

Sandra's lips curled up slightly as she blinked, taking a moment to register his lovely fac--

'Wait!'

Then, as if struck by a sudden realization, her body tensed.

Her memories came rushing back, and in the next instant, she jerked away from his grasp. Just as she was about to glare at him for whatever nonsense he had just pulled—

"Ssshhh!" Aether suddenly brought a finger to his lips, his expression serious as he hushed her.