Correct Answer: quick

Solution : The third option is the correct choice.

The word quick in this context emphasises the speed or rapidity with which several things happen in succession. The adjective quick is suitable here to convey the idea that the events unfolded rapidly or without much delay.

The meanings of the other options are as follows:

• Brief means concise or short in duration; not lasting for a long time.
• Desperate means having reckless or frantic behaviour in the face of hopelessness.
• Absurd means contrary to reason or common sense.

Therefore, the complete sentence is: "He had moved about two inches when several things happened in very quick succession."