I stumbled. Hit the pavement hard. Knees scraped against sharp gravel. Fresh blood bloomed on my skin.
"Layla!" Lola shrieked, rushing over with practiced panic, helping me up while casting wide, fearful eyes at Adam. "It's all my fault! I'm so clumsy—I didn't see her fall."
Adam stepped forward, gently wiping a tear from Lola's cheek before glaring at me. "She wasn't watching where she was going. It's not your fault."
I bit my lip until I tasted iron. Silently, I limped after them into the store.
Adam was at the counter, card in hand, ready to buy Lola whatever she desired.
Glass shattered.
A man in a black mask crashed through the display window, wielding an axe. Before anyone could react, he lunged forward and pressed the blade against Lola's neck.
"Hand over a hundred million! Now! Or I carve her up right here!"
Behind him, several thugs circled, greedy eyes locking onto Adam's watch and wallet.
Lola screamed. "Adam! Save me!"
Adam's face went pale. He raised his hands, emptying his pockets, tossing his wallet onto the counter. "There's ninety million on those cards! Take it! Just let her go—I'll get the rest from the bank!"