Chapter 35: Exposed
Lara’s hand remained hidden beneath her jacket, but in the next instant, four small objects whizzed through the air, their trajectory arcing straight toward the curly-haired man.
Two oval-shaped projectiles struck him just below the nape, sending a jolt through his spine. The third found its mark on the wounded spot atop his head, causing him to stumble, his cry of pain echoing through the street. The final one slammed into the back of his right knee, forcing him into an awkward half-kneel as he howled in agony.
"Brother, look. Now, there are four of them." The little girl’s voice held nothing but innocent curiosity as she crouched, gathering the fallen seriguelasat her feet, seemingly unaffected by the man’s tortured groans.
Her brother turned, his eyes meeting Lara’s. There was something fleeting in his gaze—recognition, perhaps even gratitude—before he turned back to his sister and ruffled her curly hair.
The girl giggled, handing two of the tiny plums to her brother before popping one into her mouth and munching away happily.
Meanwhile, the two individuals who had spoken on behalf of the wounded man rushed forward, lifting him with panicked urgency. They barely spared Lara a glance as they led him away, their steps hurried as they disappeared into the narrow alley. The woman they had seemingly abandoned stood still, watching them go with dull, unfocused eyes.
Lara observed their departure keenly, deducing that the man was likely their child based on the desperation in their expressions.
The disheveled woman wanted to use the commotion to slip away unnoticed, but before she could take a step, two imposing figures emerged from the crowd and flanked her on either side.
"Our nephew told us to escort you back home," one of them declared, his voice loud enough for onlookers to hear.