A tanned man, tall and muscular, with greasy hair pulled into a loose ponytail, rested a hand on the hilt of his sword, his lips curling into a sneer as he looked Lara up and down. His voice dripped with amusement and malice.
"Boss! We've hit the jackpot today—a pretty little girl and a fine-looking young man. I bet the madams in Zura would pay a hefty price for this handsome one."
Lara's expression darkened. Her fingers twitched at her sides, but before she could react, she felt a small tug at the hem of her shirt. Ivy's tiny hand clung to her, trembling.
She must protect Ivy first.
With a furtive glance that spoke volumes, she locked eyes with Ivy, urging her to seek refuge behind the carriage. The little girl, sensing the urgency in the silent communication, darted away with her heart pounding. Just as she was about to slip behind the carriage, a bandit lunged forward, his rough hand swiping through the air in a desperate attempt to seize her.
