Ana Huang makes extensive use of flashbacks within the novel to foreshadow, add tension, and help advance the plot. By withholding important details and vital memories from the narrative until the “right” time, Huang builds necessary drama and tension, both within Alex’s and Ava’s personal lives and in their relationship with each other. Flashbacks are used extensively, particularly through Alex’s point of view, to build the foundation of his and Ava’s relationship. This is evidenced when, instead of looking back on his parents’ murder as he often does, Alex chooses to remember the first time he met Ava—Thanksgiving eight years prior. Alex’s choice to recall a memory of Ava over one of his parents emphasizes that his feelings for Ava are taking priority over his obsessive desire for vengeance.

While drama and tension between the couple in a romance novel is to be expected, these elements also provide an additional layer to Alex and Ava’s respective characters. The flashbacks—such as the flashback to his parent’s murder and the figurative “noose” tightening around Alex’s neck shortly after agreeing to protect Ava—further explore the fears and motivations behind the actions and reactions of Alex and Ava.