GABRIELLA'S POV

As I gently turned the doorknob with utmost care, the familiar creak of the door threatened to betray my stealthy exit. I held my breath, trying to avoid any sound that could potentially alert Nicklaus to my presence.

With a mix of anxiety and determination, I gently opened the door, praying for it to remain silent.

Slipping into the room, I closed the door behind me with a barely audible click.

Relief washed over me, and I let out a quiet sigh, believing that I had ...