Cross the Line

Malik's body goes rigid, and he whirls around, his movements swift and predatory.

In a flash, his hand is around Layla's throat, squeezing with a vice-like grip. Layla's eyes widen in terror, and she gurgles out a scream, clawing at his hand desperately.

Malik's expression is that of a man possessed, his eyes burning with a cold fury.

"If you so much as think about touching my daughter, I will make you wish for death," he growls, his voice dripping with menace.

Layla's face is rapidly turning purple, and her struggles grow weaker.

Malik holds her aloft, his grip unrelenting, until her eyes start to roll back.

Just when it seems like she's about to lose consciousness, he releases his hold, letting her crumple to the floor in a heap.

Layla gasps and wheezes, gulping in air as she trembles uncontrollably. Malik looks down at her with utter disdain, his lips curling into a sneer.