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I continue to work on the ropes, ignoring the pain that shoots through my hands.
I know the stakes are too high for me to give in to my discomfort.
With one final effort, I manage to loosen the knots enough to slip my hands-free.
I suppress a triumphant cry as I glance over at Atwell, making sure he hasn't noticed my escape.
His back is still turned to me, his entire focus on Anthony.
Now's my chance.
I carefully move away from the pole, taking slow and deliberate steps towards FBI Agent John Miller's lifeless body lying on the ground.
As I approach Miller's body, I step lightly, trying not to make a sound that would give me away.
Atwell is dangerous, and I know that one wrong move could cost us everything.
My heart pounds in my chest as I spot a gun lying near Miller's body.
It must have fallen out of his holster during the struggle.
I know that picking it up might be my only chance to save both Anthony and myself.
Swallowing my fear, I reach down and grab the weapon, it's cold steel sending a shiver up my spine.
I grip the gun tightly, feeling the weight of it in my hand.
I've never been one for violence, but right now, it's not about me – it's about protecting the man I love.
Taking a deep breath, I step out from behind Miller's body, aiming the gun at Atwell with a steady hand.
"Let him go, Atwell!" I shout, my voice firm despite the tremors running through my body.
Atwell's eyes widen in surprise as he turns around, clearly not expecting me to have freed myself, let alone armed myself.
He hesitates for a moment, the knife still held to Anthony's throat.
I can see the fear in Anthony's eyes, but beneath it, there's a flicker of hope.
"Put the knife down, or I swear I'll shoot," I warn him, my finger hovering over the trigger.
In the back of my mind, I pray that I won't actually have to pull it.
But if it means saving Anthony, I'll do whatever it takes.
"Go ahead then, sweetheart," Atwell sneers, clearly underestimating me. "Do your worst."
"Please, Diana," Anthony whispers, his voice laced with pain. "Don't let him win."
His words strengthen my resolve, and I take another deep breath, steadying my aim.
The world around me seems to disappear as I focus on my target.
My heart races, but I refuse to let fear control me.
"Last chance, Atwell," I say with as much authority as I can muster.
"Fine," he scoffs, releasing Anthony and taking a step back, his arrogance shining through even now.
