70

Mercy staggered through the rain-drenched streets, her eyes scanning for Loretta with exhaustion and worry taking their toll.

She saw Mikel up ahead, a beacon in the downpour, but her legs gave out.

Mercy fell, her body hitting the wet pavement.

“ MERCY!!!!!"

Mikel yelled, running to her. He picked her up, holding her in his arms.

The vendor walked up, Mercy's bags in hand.

"I told her to wait in the shade," a look of concern etched in the vendor's features.

Mikel frowned. "Where was the girl with her?" he asked gruffly.

The woman shook her head. "I didn't see her. She was gone"

Mikel's jaw clenched, fist tightening.

He relieved the vendor of Mercy's bags.

"Thanks," he growled, before turning to go.

He carefully placed Mercy in the car, securing her seatbelt.

Rain drummed against his windshield as he drove away.

Mercy's eyes flickered open. "Mikel.Loretta."

Mikel's expression softened.

"Don't worry, Mercy. We'll find her."

But his eyes told another story.

Fabian's wrath would show no