"Are you looking for me?" Lara exclaimed, her eyes lighting up with curiosity. She gestured animatedly to herself while her gaze remained fixated on Bener. "Why?"
Bener hesitated, his gaze darting to the ground. "Asael asked me to find you," he said, the words tumbling out too quickly. He clung to his brother's name like a lifeline, using it as a convenient excuse—a scapegoat.
Lara's playful expression faded. "Is something wrong with Asael?" Her brow knit with concern, her voice softening.
"No, it's not that…" Bener shifted uncomfortably, rubbing the back of his neck. "It's just… it's better if you come along." His eyes met hers, uncertain, almost pleading.
Lara studied him for a moment, unease flickering across her face. Worry for Asael tightened in her chest, and without another word, she fell into step beside Bener.
