Their sole desire was to avoid identification and escape the repercussions, so Arabelle and her group fled the scene without the slightest intention of verifying the identity of the person who had interrupted their cruel act.
"Hey, how are you?" the unfamiliar voice persisted, expressing genuine concern for Lily's well-being.
Still in a state of shock and unable to process her thoughts, Lily remained unresponsive to the voice, not even recognizing it.
Even as the footsteps of the voice's owner drew nearer, she remained aloof, lost in the turmoil of her own mind.
"Lily?!"
Suddenly, Lily felt her body being lifted, her arms draped over a pair of shoulders, and strong arms circling under her legs, supporting her weight.
Her cheeks and ears pressed against something soft and warm, with the steady thumping of a comforting heartbeat. It was incredibly soothing.
Then, she raised her head, and her eyes met the concerned face of her rescuer.
