Like an explosion went off in me, I couldn't see straight or think. My hands stayed fixed on my chest, barely holding it together; the pain was unbearable. This feeling, I hate it. I barely kept myself together as the leader, Evander, gave us all the details we needed.
Maya had been kidnapped on Apple Junction, an intersecting road that connects the bigger towns of Cestaf.
But how? Is this place safe? I thought Ehktars were exclusive to Neon Republic? Did they cross over? How? So easily too…
"Nero, calm down."
With Yunas' words, I let out a deep breath. I hadn't realized it, but I had begun to panic, and from the way everyone looked at me, it was obvious.
The leader smiled at me and continued telling us about the mission. I struggled to pay attention, from the constant worry of what could have happened to Maya and my ever-growing fear of the leader.
I am not comfortable here.
******
After the meeting, everyone went their separate ways to prepare for the upcoming task. I remained in the hallway because, well, I'm not sure where I should go or what I should do. Should I sharpen my sword? Buy equipment?
Fuck, I'm lost.
Using my arms, I held myself and bent over. Thinking of all the information we just got has tied my stomach in knots, not to mention my heart. This feeling is getting worse. Maya, please be safe.
In my distress, I began to hear footsteps quickly approaching. With all my agony, I didn't bother raising my head.
"Nero, come with me."
"Huh?"
"We need to have a meeting about the mission and you as well."
"Me?" I said, slowly raising my head. "What do you want with me?"
I forgot I still have to work with these guys. The price for a life, I guess, I wonder if they're gonna use Bella. No, I wonder what else they are hiding.
Looking up at Yuna, I couldn't help but glare at her. Looking straight into her eyes.
"You are a part of us, whether you like it or not. It's too late for regrets and animosity," she held my shoulders and bent slightly. "Just keep moving forward, I promise you, it's not as bad. I will take responsibility for you."
"Responsibility…." I muttered. "But you don't even want me here; you just want Bella. You will abandon me at the slightest chance. Don't fuck with me."
Yuna, with a solemn expression, hugged me. Then muttered softly, "You are one of us nero, give me the chance to show you that."
Before I knew it, my body had begun to shake, and tears began falling from my eyes. I sobbed in her embrace.
I didn't want to admit it, but I was scared. Scared I'd be abandoned. Scared I'd be killed by these same hands that hold me. The anxiety is killing me. I just want to shrink, to escape, but Maya, she's in trouble. I have to go save her, by all means.
Shoving Yuna away, I wiped my eyes frantically. "Where are we having the meeting?" I said, averting my gaze. No way I'd let her see me in tears again.
"A quick recovery, I see. I expect a lot from you, Nero."
"I will try my best."
Yuna smiled softly, "It is at the—"
"It's at the usual table. Feel free to come after your tears have dried up!" remen screamed from the corner of the door leading out of the hallway. The bastard was watching.
"Nero, stop wasting our time and come already," Siri said as he walked out from behind Remen. He was there as too? I thought he didn't care about anything.
"Why are you guys here?? Can't you mind your business!" fuck this is embarrassing.
"Give it a rest," Siri said with a scoff and left, Remen following him.
Yuna walked to the door and waved her hand for me to follow her. She is strange, one time she's cold, another she acts extremely considerate and warm, I wonder what type of dere is that.
"Jeez, no subtlety in this place."