Everyone settled into their seats in the dimly lit theatre, anticipation thick in the air as Caine prepared to announce the character awards.

You settled into the seat next to Pomni, feeling a knot tighten in your stomach.

Pomni’s eyes flickered with worry, her gaze drifting toward the backstage door—she was concerned about Jax, still haunted by the echoes of their recent fight.

A tense silence stretched between you, each of you lost in your own anxious thoughts.

Jax hadn’t shown up yet, and the minutes dragged on, heavy and suffocating.

You told Pomni that you were going to the bath room masking your true intent.

But inside, your heart was pounding—your mind racing to Jax, to what might be happening behind that closed door.

Before you could stand, Pomni’s fingers gently, yet insistently, clasped your arm.

Her voice was soft but urgent, “Let’s go together. I want to check on Jax too.” Her grip was steady, unwavering, as if anchoring you in this tense moment.

You nodded silently, and the two of you moved as one toward the restroom.

Pomni’s hand remained firm on your arm as you approached the door.

You raised your hand and knocked softly, your heart hammering in your chest.

Behind the door, you could hear him—Jax—hyperventilating, breaths ragged and uneven, each gasp echoing your mounting dread.

The atmosphere was thick with silent fear, the unspoken question hanging in the air:

What’s happening on the other side?