Chapter 16: New threat
Adam sat quietly in his classroom, attempting to focus on his studies, but his mind kept wandering back to earlier events.
A shadow of worry darkened his usually composed face as he replayed what had happened that morning.
The thought nagged at him—if he hadn't been there, what would those men have done to Ani?
As if sensing his internal turmoil, Pratham's voice spoke directly into his ears, a calm and steady presence. "My Lord, don't trouble yourself," he reassured. "I've identified their faces. I'm tracking their location now."
Adam nodded slightly, his gaze still distant. Pratham's words eased some of the tension building in his chest, allowing him to refocus on the lesson, even if only for a while.
The school bell rang, announcing the lunch break. Students filed out of the classroom, chattering as they dispersed in groups.
Adam grabbed his lunch and was about to leave when his classmate Eric approached him, looking annoyed.
"Adam, where were you yesterday?" Eric asked, his tone a mix of curiosity and frustration. "You just disappeared without a word. That's not cool. You leave us hanging all the time."
Caught off guard, Adam hesitated, the defensiveness visible in his stance. He adjusted the strap of his bag and stood straighter, addressing Eric with an apologetic nod. "It's not like that, Eric. I had something important to take care of."
Before Eric could press further, another classmate, Leo, stepped in, placing a hand on Eric's shoulder. "I told you yesterday, didn't I? Adam had an urgent matter to handle."
Eric rolled his eyes, his irritation softening. "Yeah, yeah, you and your 'important' things. But next time, if I call you, you better show up. Deal?"