Arnold's expression darkened. As the young heir of the Lawson family, he was accustomed to bodyguards, chauffeurs, and even a private jet. Luxury was his norm; heavy lifting was not. Yet, Felicia had tossed the bags to him and continued up the trail without a backward glance. The others were already ahead. Gritting his teeth, Arnold reluctantly picked up the two heavy bags, finding them far heavier than anticipated.

He considered returning them to Felicia, but after witnessing her slender arms carrying them for half the trail, he chose to continue carrying them—perhaps out of chivalry, perhaps for other reasons.

Turning to rejoin the group, he heard a rustling in the nearby grass. Seeing nothing unusual, he dismissed it. However, once the group was sufficiently ahead, the bushes stirred again. Shawn tumbled out, sighing in relief. "That was close," he muttered. "What a wasted opportunity." He'd missed his chance, and isolating Felicia again wouldn't be easy. Frowning, he pondered his next move, needing a way to distract the others and lure Felicia to a secluded spot.

Descending the trail, Shawn encountered a group of children playing. Recognizing the leader as Lucas, the village chief's grandson—a boy who had cheekily stuck his tongue out at him the previous day—Shawn had an idea. He strolled over. "Hey, kid."

Startled by his approach, the children screamed, dropping their marbles and scattering like startled rabbits. The Fullers were infamous in Alverton, and parents often warned their children about Shawn.

Lucas, however, hesitated, his eyes fixed on his precious marbles. By the time he gathered them, Shawn had him by the collar. "Where are you headed? Would you like some candy?"

By the time the group reached Hillfort, the villagers were waiting, informed of their arrival. The vice principal directed the gathering of supplies. Under curious and cautious glances, the distribution began. New backpacks, clothes, books, and supplies went to the elementary school; rice and flour were given to the neediest families. Excitement filled the village—children thrilled with their new possessions, the elderly expressing gratitude, and even the volunteers feeling a surge of joy.

Dusk had fallen by the time they finished. The group returned to Alverton for the night; Hillfort's cottages were too small and dilapidated.

The downhill hike was easier, prompting fewer complaints. Felicia stretched her sore wrists, anticipating Nana's dinner. Eager to return, she quickened her pace. As they reached the mountain's base, shouts echoed.

"What happened?" Felicia asked, grabbing someone's arm.

"It's the village chief's grandson, Lucas. He's gone missing!" they replied.