Boshville

B. 20

Natalie tried to walk away but Hunter grabbed her. "Running off so soon? I didn't take you for a chicken". He snickering. "You're one nerve away from having your ears ripped off. Stay away from me, Ackerman". Natalie gave him her best glare.

"Kids!" It was Mrs. Ackerman that called out. She was holding baby Sean in her arms. Sean clapped and cheered on seeing Natalie. Her heart warmed towards him. "Who's a good little boy?" She cooed which only made the baby giggle.

"I'm so glad you're okay, Natalie", Mrs. Ackerman had genuine worry on her face, "I was so scared when Daisy sent a distress message to me". "You knew about me?" Natalie was confused. "I left the hunters years ago", Mrs. Ackerman confessed, "Daisy needed someone to trust when their demands became high hence the whole babysitting".

Natalie didn't know how to feel. She couldn't believe that none of those babysitting days were random. It was a scheme to protect her. How many more things were out of the ordinary that I was too blind to see? She wondered to herself.

"We're sorry we lied". Mrs. Ackerman added. "Yeah, I get it", Natalie shrugged sadly, "you wanted me to have a normal life suffering through high school and crying about boys". "That's something I'd love to see". Hunter butted in. "How stupid are you dude? Keep your tongue locked in your mouth and we don't have to pick up your body pieces".

"Your threats are cute. Where do you buy them? The baby store?" Hunter laughed.

Natalie fumed and was about to speak when a bottle of water was placed in front of her face. "Drink this and calm down", Carmosole ordered with a glare, "your renomones are scaring the others". Natalie snatched it from her hand and took a large gulp. The chillness of the liquid actually soothed her nerves. She took in a deep breath and let go of her anger.

"Thanks". She mumbled to her aunt. "Anytime. Besides, I only need a minute and we'll be out of here". Carmosole informed the girl.  "Why can't we stay? If this General hasn't caught a group this size, it's gotta be safe". Natalie pointed out. "Which is why we're leaving", Carmosole crossed her arms, "Zarphon told me about your 'high emotions' but I didn't think it was all that bad up until now. We can't compromise this hideout".

Natalie whined internally but said nothing in defense because it was true. A short albino man came out some minutes after with a black duffle bag. "Is everything inside?" Carmosole confirmed. "Only the best for you. Please be safe". The albino flashed a few of his rotten teeth. "I will". Carmosole ensured that her tone carried the warmth she felt towards her people.

Natalie marched to the front door only to see some soldiers about to knock. "Officers, how can we help you?" Natalie made sure she sounded delighted. "Are you a daughter of this house?" One of them asked. "No, we're having a little gathering", Natalie lied easily, "you know how it is when family finally meet". "I would have to ask you to get the owners of the house". The man eyed Natalie with distaste.

Suddenly, Natalie felt an arm around her neck. "What's going on babe?" Hunter slurred the word 'babe' on purpose. "Nothing serious, baby", Natalie played along, "these kind men were just asking for the owners". "That would be my parents", Hunter lied, "is there any problem?" "We are searching house to house for the suspected terrorists", the soldier explained, "you are to remain calm and we would be over and out as soon as we can".

"Okay. Where's your search warrant?"

"I just explained that your safety is being compromised".

"And I heard you. But I still have to see a search warrant. The law is still the law".

Natalie could see the other soldiers in the back making slight movements. She squinted her eyes and saw their weapons being filled with something. "Stay back!" She screamed. The sound waves sent them flying in different directions. "Go inside and warn the others. We'll try to hold them off". Carmosole warned a shaken up Hunter.