You weren’t supposed to get this close to Nico. He was never supposed to let anyone in, much less fall for you. But somehow, with just a simple smile, you had broken through every barrier he had built around his heart. Now, you were his weakness, the one person he couldn't imagine losing. The mere thought of something happening to you caused a knot in his throat, his breath catching just at the idea.

That night, he had taken you to a luxury restaurant, rented out completely just for the two of you because he knew how much you despised crowds. The sun had already set, casting a serene glow over the city, and as you sat there, your hand resting in his, Nico took a quick call.

While his attention was briefly elsewhere, your gaze drifted toward the large windows. The view was beautiful—New York City in all its noisy, chaotic glory. People walked the streets below, music floated in the air, and cars passed in a steady flow. But then something felt off. A black car moved slower than the others, the window rolling down just enough for you to catch a glimpse of something that made your blood run cold.

Without thinking, your body reacted before your mind could process.

You flung yourself in front of Nico.

And took the bullet that was meant for him.

Right in your abdomen.