Page 70 of French Escapade

The seconds that follow are the fastest ever, and yet I feel as if I’m watching and analyzing a slow-motion movie. Andrea puts the second bracelet around Arkady’s wrist and turns slightly to ask something of a man behind him.

Arkady jumps at the chance. He grabs Andrea’s weapon and aims it at Ken.

I dive towards Ken.

Arkady shoots.

And then there’s pain.

And darkness.

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