Reborn From Oblivion by Christia Muray

Chapter 57

Nellie went as pale as a ghost, quickly pulling Nathan behind her for protection. Cameron's raised fist never came down; instead, he just stared at Nellie, dumbfounded. As he watched her stand up for another guy with such determination, something inside him began to crumble. The once timid Nellie had only ever shown courage for him. But now, her courage was no longer his alone. He finally realized he had lost the girl who once loved him so completely.

Seizing the moment of Cameron's distraction, Nellie grabbed Nathan's hand, and they dashed off. They stopped on a deserted street, where Nellie tried to catch her breath, her chest rising and falling. Then, she gave Nathan a playful punch on the chest, her anger more bark than bite. "He's like the most important person of the Capital. Even your big brother's careful around him. Are you trying to make life hard for yourself in the Capital?"

Nathan put on a mock hurt face. "He had it coming."

The thought of Cameron with a black eye made Nellie secretly pleased, but she was also worried about Nathan's safety. She kept reminding him, "When we're back in the Capital, keep your head down until you're more powerful."

Nathan's smile was like the sun breaking through clouds. "Of course, I'll do as you say."

Nellie felt a huge relief wash over her.

"Nathan, while I'm off doing my internship, I won't be around to look out for you. You need to stay sharp and not get caught up in anything sketchy."

Nathan's eyes sparkled like stars, his smile pure and innocent. "You're starting to sound like a worrywart. You're only 22."

Nellie paused.

was just 22. But she felt like she'd

been through too many goodbyes and tough

wasn't how her fresh start was

back. "You look

"Will do."

the blue, Nathan presented a velvet box to Nellie. "Here, a little

way to see her was already the best gift. She hadn't

more than her so-called husband or

"Thank you, Nathan."

"Go on, open it."

a

will be leaving soon for some intensive internship. It'll be ages before

birthday?" en

"Of course, I promise."

in Nathan's eyes

said goodbye, "There's a countdown to my birthday on the watch.4t'll remind you when tocome back So, it's a deal. I'll be