As Brianna straightened up, she caught sight of the man in the white T-shirt lingering just outside the toy store. His eyes were fixed on her, his intent stare unsettling. A wave of unease washed over her. Had he followed them from the restaurant? For a moment, her heart raced.
Brianna stood, pulling Adrian and Lucy close. She whispered, “Come on, let’s go,” and started walking toward the store counter, her strides long and hurried. Her mind was racing. All she could think about was getting her children out of the store and somewhere safe.
As Brianna hurried toward the exit, her heart pounding with tension, a deep voice called out behind her, “Excuse me!” She froze, gripping her children’s hands tightly. Slowly, she turned around, steeling herself for whatever might come next. At that moment, Brianna knew—whatever was about to happen next would change everything.