Brian glanced back at him with a hint of amusement.
âThe researchers arenât wizards, Sanford, and cloning technology isnât magic.
â
Sanford chuckled, the tension in his voice easing.
âThe way youâre looking at me now, as if Iâm an imbecile, actually reassures me.
â
Brian, puzzled, asked, âWhat do you mean?â
âWell, Iâm certain that youâre the genuine Brian, not some clone,â Sanford replied with a grin.
Brian rolled his eyes.
âIdiot,â he remarked.
âDonât scoff, buddy,â Sanford retorted with a laugh.
âYou should be thanking me for getting you out of that lab.
â
Rosalynn nodded, her laughter ringing clear.
âYes, Brian, we owe a lot to Sanford.
It was his invaluable assistance that led us to you.
â
Sanfordâs chest puffed out with pride.
âHear that? From now on, Iâm your savior.
It is now time for you to show me your respect.
â
Brianâs response was a silent, exasperated look.
As the trio bantered, Jamir, who had been silent until now, finally interjected, âAre you all done talking? Donât assume youâre safe just yet.
Leon is cunning and might have slipped away from his stronghold to come after you.
â
At Jamirâs words, the three of them immediately ceased their smiles, and the lightness in the air dissipated.
âYouâre right,â Rosalynn acknowledged soberly.
âBrian, Sanford, letâs keep moving.
â
âOkay.
â
Brian grasped her hand and rose to his feet, his movements showing a hint of frailty.
Noticing his struggle, Sanford quickly moved to his other side, extending support.
âCome on, let me assist you.
â
âThanks.
â
âJust thank me properly when we get back.
â
Brian managed a slight smile, still holding Rosalynnâs hand, and cast a curious glance towards Jamir, who was pacing ahead.
He inquired, âRosalynn, who is he?â
Rosalynn leaned closer.
âHis name is Jamir Wagner,â she told Brian.
âHeâs the one who aided us in escaping from the Green Gangâs stronghold.
â
Really? Jamir helped them?
Brian squinted.
âJamir? This name seems strangely familiar to me.
â
Sanford furrowed his brow.
âHis name does ring a bell for me as well, but I canât quite pinpoint where Iâve heard it before.
â
Rosalynn looked at Jamirâs back, her voice quiet but clear.
âHeâs the same man who kidnapped Sheldon and me at the resort.
â