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Slowly, as if reluctantly, the creatures began to retreat. Their menacing posture relaxed, and one by one, they disappeared into the dense foliage, their threat diminishing with each step.

Erick turned to Cynthia, his expression softening as he approached her. "Are you alright?" he asked, his concern evident in his eyes. Erick extended his hand toward Cynthia, a silent invitation.

Cynthia, still trembling from the recent encounter with the beasts, gratefully accepted his hand. With his strong, reassuring grip, he helped her to her feet.

As she stood, the relief of her safety washed over her, and without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around Erick in a tight, heartfelt embrace. Her gratitude and trust in him were expressed in that simple, wordless gesture, the warmth of her hug conveying emotions that words could never fully capture.

Erick, his voice tinged with concern, said, "Who let my little dove wander into the jungle alone?" Cynthia, still trembling from the encounter with th