Maria and her friends stood frozen. Fear had taken such hold of them that even words refused to form. Their minds went blank, their bodies paralyzed.
Suddenly, Laura spun around, turning to face whoever was behind them. The others, startled by her unexpected bravery, followed her lead.
What they saw left them even more stunned. A towering man with a menacing look stood just a few steps away.
His presence was terrifying, and all that crossed Maria's mind was run! But Laura clearly had a different plan.
"You there!" Laura said boldly, taking a step forward. "Who are you and what do you want from us?"
Her voice was firm, fearless. She stood between the man and her friends, unshaken.
The man glared down at her, clearly offended.
"How dare you speak to me like that?" he growled. "I didn't come for you, but if you interfere in what's not your business, young lady, I'll remove you from my path—permanently!"
He stepped toward her with a threatening air, but Laura didn't budge.
