I’ll do whatever it takes.

Lily

As I bustled about the house, adjusting the curtains and straightening the cushions on the couch, I was interrupted by the faint beep of my phone. Glancing at the screen, I saw a message notification and tapped on it absentmindedly, not expecting anything out of the ordinary but what I found there sent a jolt of pure terror coursing through my veins.

The message was short and chillingly direct. It threatened me, warning me to stay away from Noah, or face dire consequences. My heart hammered in my chest as fear washed over me like a tidal wave. I felt my hands tremble, and a cold sweat broke out on my forehead.

My mind raced, trying to comprehend what I had just read. Why would someone send me such a threatening message? And why Noah? He was just a friend, nothing more. Sure, we had been spending more time together lately, but there was nothing romantic between us. Or at least, I didn't think so.

I felt a surge of anger rising within me, pushing back against the fear that threaten