Lost

Chapter 43: Encounter

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Asim's P.O.V.

"Oh My Allah!" Asim heard Salma's shocked whisper.

While he struggled with his seat belt, Salma had already rushed out to the girl he had just hit. Stepping out of the car, he took a few shaky steps to the front, scared to death.

"You okay? Are you hurt - I'm so sorry, we – Are you alright?" he heard Salma's panicked voice.

Asim was so sure of seeing a lot of blood that for a moment, he thought he was going mad when all he saw was peach and grey.

He heaved a massive sigh of relief when he realized he didn't hit anyone. The girl in the peach dress was crouched on the ground, mere inches away from the car, her face hidden in her hands. She was crying profusely as Salma embraced her, desperately trying to calm her down.

"Are you okay?" Salma asked the girl again.

Thinking he heard movement behind him, Asim turned towards the dark alley. It seemed empty, except for a few cars that were parked at the other end by the club goers in the next street.

"Asim!" Salma exclaimed, making him turn his attention back to the two. "It's Claire!"

Asim gasped in surprise. His eyes ran over the girl's familiar blond hair. She was barely recognizable with her makeup stained tears streaming down her face as her whole body shook with sobs.

"Is she hurt?" Asim asked, swallowing uneasily.

"I don't know," Salma answered. "I think she was mugged."

It was only then that Asim noticed Claire's blond hair was a mess - which was expected because she seemed to be running - her dress was torn in places, one of her high heels was broken, and her bare arms were bruising. Realizing she was barely covered in her short dress, Asim averted his gaze. He turned to the dark Alley again, wondering if her attacker was still there.

"I think you should call the police," Salma suggested

"No!" Claire protested suddenly, "No, don't – don't call the police!"

Asim and Salma exchanged worried glances.

"Claire, the person who mugged you –"

"I - I wasn't m-mugged," Claire hiccuped.

Asim frowned. She wasn't mugged? The what happened?

Salma looked at her brother for help. Asim shrugged, not knowing what to do. She turned back to Claire, searching her wide eyes, probably trying to figure out what had her scared so much.

Asim's eyes trailed to the dark alley and the club at the other end. Judging from Claire's fancy attire, Asim guessed she had frequented the club.

"Did you drive here?" Salma asked.

Claire shook her head, wiping her eyes.

"Is there anyone around we should contact?" Salma asked. "Your friends, maybe? Anyone you shared a ride with?" Asim figured she was trying to find out if someone may be looking for her.

Once again, Claire just shook her head. Asim had a feeling someone had tried to lead her out of the club without her consent.

"Maybe we should inform her brother -"

"NO!" Claire cried in alarm at Asim's suggestion. "Don't call Zayn! P-please don't tell Zayn!"

The siblings shared another glance. What was going on?