I knew how heavy a snooker ball was. It wouldn’t shatter bones, but it could definitely leave bruises—and if it hit the wrong spot, it could do some real damage.

I tried to dodge, but before I could move far, strong arms wrapped tightly around me. A loud thud rang out, followed by another, and then another. Balls were raining down everywhere. I was spinning, caught in the chaos. No—we were spinning. Ashton was the one pulling me with him.

His arm was firm ...