And then, as if the heavens themselves had answered her prayers, the door to the room slammed open with a force that rattled the walls, sending a sharp, echoing sound through the silence.
Just as it seemed the situation couldn't get any worse, a sound broke through the panic—a sharp, heavy footstep.
Alicia's head snapped up, her tear-filled eyes widening at the door to the room, which burst open with a force that sent a wave of relief rushing over her.
Standing in the doorway, framed by the golden light of the hallway, was a figure—tall, imposing, and carrying an air of authority that made the very room seem to bow to his presence.
It was Nicolas.
