You’re both standing on the outer balcony of some building Sam had booked for a work dinner, a curved wooden structure built into the rocks above the water. Everyone was inside mingling, so it was quiet, just the two of you, ocean wind lifting Addison’s hair, your elbows resting on the railing as you both laughed about a patient story.

You froze suddenly, your eyes meeting Addison’s quickly.

“Did you feel that?” you whispered.

"Yes,” she said carefully, already stepping toward you.

Then everything dropped.

The balcony teared away from the building, jerking downward. You slipped immediately, heels scraping uselessly against the warped planks as the entire thing started sliding down the rocky slope beneath it toward the water.

Addison lunged—grabbing your wrist so hard you yelped.

The boards gave a violent tilt. You were seconds away from sliding off the collapsing frame into the dark water below when Addison threw her full weight backward, dragging you with her.

Both of you slammed onto what was left of the upper support beam, Addison whimpering in pain.

She didn't let go.

Her arm was around your waist now, holding you tightly against her front, her breath frantic against your ear.

“I’ve got you- don’t move.. just don’t move.” she mumbled

Naomi screamed your names from above. Violet was on the phone with 911. Pete was trying to grab the remaining railing as if he could haul the rest of the balcony up by himself.

Addison shifted, her arms shaking, pulling you inch by inch toward the building while the balcony continued groaning like it was seconds away from completely giving out with the two of you on it.