The rescue

"Watch out!" Lara screamed, her voice tearing through the chaos.

Bruno, with reflexes honed from years of training, spun on his heel just in time. He caught the knife before the man could stab him, the blade biting into his palm. A crimson bloom blossomed, staining his hand as he wrestled the weapon away.

Lara gasped, a strangled cry escaping her lips. The sight of Bruno, injured and yet unwavering, sent a fresh wave of terror coursing through her.

Neither man yielded. Their eyes locked intensely, a war dance fueled by adrenaline and rage. Bruno slammed his head on his forehead. The impact sent the man reeling backward, the knife clattering harmlessly to the floor.

With a feral snarl, Bruno jumped on him and punched him again and again. Punches rained down, each blow infused with a fury born of fear and protectiveness.

"How dare you touch her?" he roared with barely controlled rage.