Chapter 170. The Escape

Collins’ POV

I grip the steering wheel tighter than I realize, my knuckles white, the tension running up my arms. Through the window, I watch the tall building in front of me, its sleek glass reflecting the cloudy sky. A breath escapes me—long, heavy. What am I doing here?

The question loops in my mind as my gaze sweeps over the structure again. Why do I find myself rushing to her place the moment I hear about Cynthia’s arrest? I should be at the hospital with Alexander. 

He needs me. But no, here I am… parked outside Aria’s apartment complex, heart pounding like I’ve been in a sprint. Why?

Maybe it’s because I wanted to be the first to tell her. Or maybe it’s because I already knew what this news could mean for her. I didn’t want her hearing it from someone careless. Or worse—someone cruel. I wanted to see he