"What are you doing?"

The sudden embrace sent a wave of alarm through Celeste's entire body.

Her instincts kicked in immediately—she reacted before she even had time to think. With a sharp, reflexive motion, she swung her elbow back with all her strength.

"Ah!"

Arlo let out a howl of pain.

Celeste struck with precision and force, targeting Arlo's waist with the skill of years of practice. The impact was strong, and Arlo's face showed intense ...