Myungsoo's sharp, angry voice rings in Mira's ears as they and Zoey rush to where Rumi lays sprawled on the ground, one arm still wrapped around him.
The sight of that tiny frame, standing as tall as his two feet of height will allow him, sends Mira's heart into their throat.
Too late. We're too late. I failed them.
They yell Rumi's name in unison with Zoey, and then they're both on the ground- Zoey pulling Rumi close, murmuring soft, worried words. Meanwhile, Mira makes sure to put themselves between their girls and the odious couple still spewing filth.
Myungsoo's voice no longer holds the strength he had while yelling. Instead, it trembles, and tears well up in his wide eyes. Mira takes his face in their hands, pressing their forehead to his.
"Yeah, bub." They ignore the tremble in their own voice. "You were so brave."
They can hear Zoey- "Baby, oh baby. Y-You're hurt."
Rumi's hurt. Mira couldn't them there fast enough, and Rumi's hurt.
By now, most of the crowd has their phones out, recording the incident, and Mira can see the old couple- they guess them to be Mi-yeong's parents by what they're yelling- are beginning to retreat, realizing the crowd is against them.
Mira will find out who they are, and ruin them if it's the last thing they do.
"I keep Eomma safe." Myungsoo lifts his chin, and flexes his arms. Mira chuckles, pulling him in for a hug.
"You did, bub. Don't let Abby see those muscles, he'll get jealous."
Myungsoo giggles and buries himself in Mira's arms. "Missed you, Mimi."
"Missed you too, Myungie."
They look up to see Rumi, and rage ignites in their chest once more. The mark on her cheek is red and angry.
I failed, I failed, I failed.
"Mira." Rumi's voice is soft, pulling them out of their spiraling thoughts. She holds a hand out, beckoning. "Hold us. Please."
Mira allows themself to be drawn into a hug, holding their family close.
They won't fail them again.
