Avery's heart pounded in her chest as she realized the true extent of Julian's obsession . She knew she had to escape , but the doors were guarded , and the windows were barred .
Lyra's eyes met hers , and Avery saw a glimmer of understanding there . Lyra knew she had to get out , too .
Without hesitation , Lyra grabbed Avery's arm and pulled her towards the door . " Come on , " She whispered urgently . " We have to get out of here . "
But Julian was too quick . He intercepted them , his eyes blazing with furry . " You'll never leave me , " he snarled , his hands closing around Avery's wrists like vice grips .
Avery struggled to free herself , but Julian's grip was too strong . Lyra tried to intervene , but Julian's guards were too numerous , too well - trained .
Just when it seemed like all was lost , Ryker appeared out of nowhere , his eyes flashing with anger . " Julian , stop this , " he growled , his voice low and menacing . " You're going too far ."
Julian's face twisted with rage , but Ryker stood firm , his eyes never leaving Julian's face . Slowly , Julian's grip on Avery's wrists relaxed , and she was able to pull free .
Lyra grabbed her arm , and together , they made a run for the door . Ryker followed close behind , his eyes fixed on Julian's guards .
As they emerged into the cool night air , Avery felt a surge of relief wash over her . She was free , at least for the moment .
But as she looked back at the manor house , she saw Julian's face twisted with rage , his eyes blazing with furry . She knew she wasn't safe yet . Julian would stop at nothing to get her back .
What would Avery do next ? Would she be able to evade Julian's guards and make her way back to the safety of her own world ?
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