CHAPTER 17 Awakening

As Andrea ran through the crowded ballroom, her heart pounding in her chest, she could feel the eyes of the guests following her every move. She knew she had to get away, to escape before it was too late. "Excuse me, coming through!" she called out, pushing her way through the crowd. The guests parted ways, their shocked expressions fueling her determination. Alexander, seeing her flee, was torn. He knew something was amiss, but his heart urged him to follow her, to make sure she was safe. He pushed through the crowd, calling out her name. "Andrea, wait! Let me help you!" he shouted, but she was already ahead, her pace quickening as she reached the doors leading outside. Andrea burst through the doors, the cool night air hitting her face. She kicked off her heels, feeling the soft grass beneath her feet as she ran into the darkness of the jungle. Alexander followed closely behind, his eyes never leaving her figure as she disappeared into the trees. He knew he had to catch up to he