"Get down on the ground." Philip Dowd said, moving his rifle between you and Aaron's heads.

Both of you had been bound with zipties in a hospital waiting area, together with several other hostages. Aaron, a trained hostage negotiator, had attempted to talk to Dowd, which only made Dowd more furious and aggressive.

Instead, Aaron tried to gain his trust by insulting you - showing Dowd that he betrays his partner.

Although you knew that Aaron was merely acting - trying to save all of your lifes - his words stung.

As a final proof of his commitment to Dowd, Aaron requested to be untied to beat you up.

You looked up at Aaron with wide eyes, the fear of his plan going south and the expectation of the pain that his kicking would cause almost making you flinch.

Aaron began kicking you, continuing to spit cruel and insulting words at you.

Dowd was pleased, watching the scene unfold with a wide smile plastered onto his face. Luckily for you, he noticed too late as you reached out for the gun concealed in Aaron's ankle holster.

You didn't hesitate as you shot, hitting Dowd right between the eyes.

Outside, you were checked by paramedics, one of them treating a small cut on your temple, as Aaron walked over to you.

"How are you holding up?" He murmurs, furrowing his brows as he watches the paramedic work. "I..." He sighs, running a hand through his hair. "I want to apologise. I didn't mean a word of what I said."