As the performance continued, Adeline clung tightly to Brian’s arm. She was whispering to him and laughing softly. Meanwhile, Brian gently wiped sweat from her forehead and tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. Their affectionate gestures were so natural, like a real couple deeply in love.
I stood off to the side, completely forgotten. Just a silent observer. Suddenly, Brian’s phone rang. He leaned close to Adeline, murmured something to her and then walked toward a corner to take the call.
Meanwhile, I couldn’t help but stare at the raging flames. There was an uneasy feeling creeping over me. My instincts screamed that something terrible was about to happen.
And then I met Adeline’s gaze. The sweet, sisterly smile she had worn moments ago had vanished. In its place was a strange, twisted smirk that sent chills racing down my spine.
Before I could react, she lunged forward, grabbed my arm with a grip like iron and shoved me toward the flames behind the safety line.
"Ah!" I screamed as I struggled desperately to pull free, but her strength was terrifying.
The searing heat rushed against my skin as the flames leapt closer, scorching me. Then, Adeline let go of me in a single motion. And with a loud, pitiful cry, she flung herself even closer to the fire.
"Help me! Brian!" she screamed.
Brian’s head snapped up the instant he heard her voice. He dropped his phone without hesitation and charged through the cordon like a madman. In one swift move, he scooped Adeline into his arms and stumbled back to safety.
After Brian managed to keep his balance, his face turned grim. He then turned to me as he looked at me with his eyes blazing with fury. Without warning, his hand struck my cheek with a sharp crack.
He shouted at me, gritting his teeth, "Why did you push Adeline? Do you want to kill her?"
My ears rang, my whole body stunned. I stared at him, utterly bewildered, unable to comprehend what had just happened. Brian didn’t wait for an answer. His expression twisted with fury as he shoved me hard.
I lost my balance and fell backward, hitting the ground. My shoulder brushed against the edge of the spreading flames. Immediately, I shouted.
The sound made Brian freeze. He looked down at me lying on the ground. For a brief second, a flicker of heartache flashed in his cold eyes.