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I stepped backwards.

One step.

Stopped.

No.

Rafe was right.

I turned back.

The door waited.

Go.

My body wouldn’t move.

Then—

The handle shifted.

My heart slammed.

The door opened an inch.

Warm light spilled through the gap.

I stopped breathing.

Nyssa moved somewhere inside.

A drawer opened.

Closed.

Footsteps across the room.

She didn’t know I was here.

I could push the door.

Not force it.

Just enough to knock.

Say her name.

Give her the choice.

My fingers touched the edge.

For one second, I held it there.

Then slowly…

I pushed.

The door moved.