CHAPTER 183

I watched the chaos unfold. Trent's father had just fled, leaving a storm of confusion and anger. My eyes locked onto Trent, still on the stage, looking lost and overwhelmed.

Mr. Matthews grabbed Trent's arm, urgency in his voice. "We need to find your father now. Tom could be in danger!"

I saw Trent's face pale at the mention of his brother's name. He nodded, then suddenly spotted me in the crowd. Our eyes met, and I saw a whirlwind of emotions cross his face – relief, guilt, fear.

"I... I can't," Trent stammered, his gaze never leaving mine. "I need to talk to Ella first. You go ahead, I'll catch up."

Mr. Matthews looked so tired. "Trent, there's no time-"

"No," I found myself saying, pushing through the crowd towards the stage. "Tom needs you, Trent. You should go."

Trent jumped down from the stage, meeting me halfway. He reached for my hand, but I instinctively pulled back. The hurt in his eyes was obvious.

"Ella," he said, my name coming out almost like a prayer. "I can't leave t