Chapter 522
Felicia’s curiosity, a rare thing, was piqued. Raising an eyebrow, she said, “Then let’s go together. I’m curious to see what kind of place could attract so many people, like moths to a flame.”
Stephan chuckled softly and took her hand. “I wasn’t planning to let you go anywhere else to begin with.” The rainforest was far too dangerous. Even the plants could be lethal, let alone the animals. He couldn't possibly let Felicia leave his side. Now, more than ever, it was safer to keep her close.
“Let’s move. The Carrell family should have already reached the destination. If we head there now, the timing will be just right,” Felicia said, recalling the general direction. She checked the time, figuring Stanley should have arrived with his men. They would have left markings along the way.
Eagerly, Felicia slung her bag over her shoulder and started to march ahead. However, Stephan grabbed her jacket hood, stopping her. Before she could react, he’d taken her bag, handing it to one of his men. He stood before her, crouching slightly. “Get on.” “What? Does he want to carry me?” she thought.
Feeling a little awkward, Felicia rubbed her nose and declined. “I can walk on my own. I don’t need you to carry me.”
Without a word, Stephan stepped back, then effortlessly hoisted her onto his back, as if she were a small rabbit. By the time Felicia registered what was happening, she was leaning against his lean but powerful back. It felt broad and steady, offering a sense of security, and carried his familiar, refreshing scent.
She gave up struggling and rested comfortably. She was utterly exhausted. After a day of running, climbing, and navigating rugged terrain at top speed with minimal rest, her legs ached terribly. She had been relying on sheer willpower, refusing to give in. But now that she had relaxed, the full weight of her fatigue hit her.
Resting her head on the crook of Stephan’s neck, Felicia let the gentle rhythm of his strides lull her to sleep.
No one noticed the petite figure hiding in the shadows until—
“Stephan!”
A sharp, feminine voice cut through the chorus of insects and frogs, momentarily silencing them. It was Johanna. She looked pitiful, dirt and stains marring her clothes. The moment she saw Stephan, she pouted, looking aggrieved. Her eyes reddened as she ran toward him.
“Stephan! I finally found you…” she exclaimed, then sobbed.
Before Stephan could respond, one of his men stepped forward, blocking Johanna from rushing at him. Frustrated, Johanna bit her lip, only to hear Stephan warn her coldly, “Keep it down.” He didn’t want to disturb Felicia, who was sound asleep on his back.
Johanna clenched her fists, consumed by jealousy. This blatant favoritism and unreserved affection were reserved for Felicia alone. He turned slightly, glancing at Felicia. She slept soundly, undisturbed. It was clear how exhausted she was. How could he not feel bad for her?