Chapter 92

Xeno deposited Nash at the gates of Rex District, saying, "Nash, we're here."

Nash nodded. "I'm sorry to trouble you."

Xeno replied, "You exaggerate, Nash. Feel free to contact me anytime you need assistance."

Nash exited the vehicle, Hera in his arms. Skadi watched Xeno, a feeling of familiarity nagging at her, though she couldn't quite place him.

Back at the apartment, Nash laid Hera on the bed and massaged her neck, infusing his energy into each touch.

"Is Hera alright?" Skadi asked anxiously.

Nash nodded. "It's nothing serious. But what happened? Did you two offend someone again?"

Seated in the computer chair, Skadi shook her head. "Hera is so pure and kind. How could she offend anyone? I wouldn't dare cause trouble; I want to protect her."

Remembering her near-assault, she felt aggrieved and shifted the blame. "It's not entirely my fault. If you'd been shopping with Hera, we wouldn't have been kidnapped."

Nash chuckled. "Aren't you a Jonford martial arts champion? How were you subdued by a bunch of thugs?"

Skadi's expression flickered, then she retorted, "They used a silent tranquilizer gun. I was careless." The gun rendered its target instantly unconscious. She'd been distracted by food stalls and hadn't noticed their surroundings.

Nash smiled faintly but remained silent.

Skadi crossed her arms, reprimanding him, "Nash, this is the second time. Hera's going to get hurt if you remain so casual."

He nodded solemnly. "You're right. I'll be more careful."

She leaned back, muttering, "First, assassins. Now, the Green Bamboo Association. Hera suspects her uncle sent the assassins, but could he be behind the Green Bamboo Association as well?"

Nash remained silent; he had no answers.

Skadi retrieved Hera's phone. Preparing to update Lauren, she saw ninety missed calls. Most were from Lauren and Harrison, with several from Mr. Lewis. A number saved as 'Little Master' had called three times.

Curiosity piqued, Skadi dialed the number.

Nash's phone vibrated. He pulled it out; it was Hera's number. He looked at Skadi, just as she said, "Little Master…"

She hung up and called Lauren. Lauren answered instantly, sharp as a tack. "Hera, where have you been? Why weren't you answering your phone?"

Skadi heard commotion on the other end—Rooney cursing.

"Lauren, it's Skadi. Hera's phone died while we were shopping!" She omitted the kidnapping to avoid alarming her.

Lauren's tone softened slightly. "Where's Hera? Can you put her on the phone?"

"Hera, she… uh…" Skadi looked at the unconscious Hera, unsure what to say.

Nash approached, taking the phone. "Hello, Lauren. Hera's asleep."

Lauren sighed in relief at Nash's voice, but her brow furrowed. "You three are together?"

Nash laughed. "They saw a movie tonight, so I joined them. We're heading home now. We're in the car."

Lauren's worry subsided. Then, she yelled, "Harrison, stop hitting him!" The call ended.