"Mommmyyy—!"
Shay's bright, childish voice rang across the distance between them the moment the group stepped out of the forest.
The little girl came barreling toward them like a tiny whirlwind—small feet pounding the ground, her small arms already stretched wide.
Before Lara could even fully react—
Thud.
Shay launched herself straight into her.
Even though Lara had seen it coming, the force of the enthusiastic collision still pushed her a step backward.
A steady hand caught her arm.
It was Ares.
His grip was firm, anchoring her before she could lose her balance.
For a brief second, Lara felt the quiet strength in his hold before he released her again.
Meanwhile, Shay had already wrapped both arms tightly around Lara's waist.
"Mommy, why didn't you take me with you?" she demanded, puffing her cheeks into an exaggerated pout.
Her wide eyes were full of wounded accusation.
