Let's Start All Over Again, Shall We?

Chapter 384: Can't We Be Friends?

Nathael sat quietly, tending to his wounds. Though young, he was tough and reserved, like a lone wolf. Maggie approached, offering, "Need a hand?"

Nathael turned away, puzzled by her sudden interest after observing from a distance.

Maggie blinked, hesitating before reaching out. Instead, she sat before him, studying him closely.

His clothes were high-quality; a plain white shirt, though too light for the chilly weather. The shirt was also ripped and stained with mud and blood from the fight.

Maggie watched, slightly surprised, as he removed his shirt. Despite their youth, they both understood the difference between genders. He possessed a strong, youthful physique, with smooth muscles showcasing his strength. Examining his injuries, the sweetness of the candy in Maggie's mouth faded.

Old scars marred his back, fierce and intimidating. Combined with the fresh bruises and wounds, the small room felt eerily cold.

Ignoring her, Nathael quietly continued, but her gaze made him uneasy. He lacked the energy to argue, however, reasoning that as long as she didn't overstep, he could tolerate her presence.

Luckily, Maggie didn't stay long, soon leaving the storage room.

Nathael breathed a sigh of relief, thinking she likely found him boring. He preferred solitude. Once Maggie left, she retrieved her stash of candies, bread, and cookies. She took half, and hurried back to her bedroom. "Does anyone have rubbing alcohol and extra blankets? I'll trade with them."

The almost-asleep children stared at her offering. Someone quickly replied, "I have disinfectant and some bandages left." She hadn't used them all from her last injury.

In the orphanage, treatment after a fight was expected. However, to curb excessive fighting, frequent infirmary visits were punished. Accident or fight, one truth remained: no one here was their parent. Obedience and sensibility were valued over troublemaking.

So, unless injuries were severe, many children endured silently, preferring that to confinement or reduced rations.

Chapter 384: Can't We Be Friends?

Maggie quickly traded candies and cookies for bandages and medicine. It was basic, but sufficient.

Then Maggie took some of the children's clothes and went to the boys' dormitory. She gave one boy candy and a thicker, new shirt in exchange for his old one. She then traded a few more candies for a borrowed jacket. It wasn't new, a donation from an adult, but in good condition. It was a bit large, but it would do.

Carrying her supplies, Maggie hurried back to the storage room. Nathael was now in a thin shirt, leaning against a bookshelf, pale and colorless.

Hearing the door open, he frowned and turned, defensively. To his surprise, it was Maggie, returning with blankets and supplies, staggering under the weight.

Maggie placed the items beside him, meeting his gaze. "Why aren't you asleep yet?" she asked gently but with a hint of familiarity.

Nathael frowned. "Why are you here?"

"Your wounds haven't been cleaned, and there isn't enough medicine. It's also too cold, and your blanket isn't thick enough," Maggie explained.

Looking past his hair, Nathael studied her for the first time. Young and much shorter, she stood out even in the orphanage, her features surpassing many wealthy girls he'd seen. Blood streaks on her cheeks gave her an untamed look.

Maggie didn't speak, allowing him to observe. Despite her kindness, she hadn't even used some of the goodies she'd saved. But she found him impressive, unlike anyone else in the orphanage.

Maggie guessed he might be lonely, or perhaps she sensed another kindred spirit in the harsh environment. The orphanage, though it provided shelter, had its share of bullies and unkindness. Despite her apparent well-being, there were always those who sought to harm her.

A moment passed. The shared silence spoke volumes, reflecting a similar loneliness. The flickering candlelight cast long shadows, mirroring their shared vulnerabilities.

Maggie was stunned. Is there such an affordable bodyguard in the world? Why do I feel like I'm getting such a good deal…?

"Can't we be friends? Friends can protect each other, too," Maggie suggested tentatively.

She'd had friends before, but they distanced themselves after she stopped being bullied. She didn't blame them; they were also victims, and she hadn't wanted to share her spoils. There were too many of them.

But now, she was willing to share with him. She found him handsome, like an exquisite doll, making her want to give him the best. And, as she'd mentioned, once he recovered, he could protect her. He was capable, and together they'd have better days, with plenty of food, and she wouldn't be afraid of attacks.

Let's Start All Over Again, Shall We?