Chapter 136

Lost in her thoughts and the discordant notes of the violin, Ayleen didn’t hear the door creak open or the footsteps that approached her from behind.

“May I help you?”

The warm breath grazing her neck sent a chill down her spine, raising goosebumps. The violin nearly slipped from her fingers as she turned sharply, her eyes widening in alarm.

Standing far too close was Shoaib, his eyes gleaming with something sinister.

“What the hell is this behavior?” Ayleen hissed, placing the violin back in its stand with shaky hands.

“What?” Shoaib shrugged, a smirk tugging at his lips. “I was offering to help.”

“No, thanks. I don’t need your help,” she spat, stepping away from him and making her way toward the door. But before she could leave, Shoaib moved swiftly, blocking her path and shutting the door with a decisive click.

Ayleen’s heart began to race. She masked her fear with a stern expression, her voice trembling only slightly.

“What is this