He shoved her down and stood up, his fingers going to his belt. The metallic clink of the buckle was the most terrifying sound Priya had ever heard. She scrambled backwards on her elbows, a desperate animal trying to escape.

He was faster. He lunged, grabbed her ankle, and dragged her back across the dusty floor. He threw himself on top of her, his weight pinning her down. She fought then, truly fought—scratching at his face, her nails drawing thin red lines on his cheek.