As Nathaniel took a step forward, Zachary barked, "Don't move."
Nathaniel froze, his muscles locking. Every instinct screamed at him to charge ahead, to knock Zachary down and pull Zara into his arms, to shield her from harm. But the sight of the gun aimed at her rooted him in place. He couldn't afford a single reckless move.
For now, all he could do was wait. He needed to keep Zachary occupied until help arrived.
"Kneel," Zachary ordered.
Zara's heart plunged. She understood immediately that Zachary wanted to humiliate Nathaniel, to destroy his pride, play with his emotions, and break him piece by piece. Desperately, she shook her head, silently begging Nathaniel to refuse.
But he dropped to his knees without a moment's hesitation.
Her chest constricted at the sight. Seeing him helpless, forced into submission, hurt more than she could bear.
Zachary sneered. "Hah. This is going to be entertaining."
