Inferno Hearts | Xu Minghao

23. Stripper?

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After what felt like an eternity of crouching behind the dumpster, Navi's eyes were greeted by the first rays of the sun as they painted the sky with hues of dawn. A sense of relief washed over her – finally.

Throughout her time in hiding, a steady stream of homeless people passed by on the street in front of her. Navi remained vigilant and concealed, her heart racing with each footstep that approached. Thanks to her heightened awareness and careful concealment, she managed to evade their notice entirely.

Her thoughts raced as she considered her next move. With the morning sun now casting its warm glow, Navi knew that time was of the essence. Her most pressing task was finding a way to acquire a phone so she could contact Keeho – her sole lifeline in this desperate situation.

Slowly coming out from her cramped hiding spot, Nabi felt a wave of discomfort washing over her body. The night spent crouched in the narrow space had taken its toll, leaving her muscles stiff and protesting as she stretched them. Every movement seemed to be accompanied by a reminder of the uncomfortable position she had maintained for hours.

As if that wasn't enough, the pain in her body intensified when she recalled the daring leap she had taken over the fence. The impact of her landing had sent shockwaves through her, reverberating in her bones and muscles. Even as she tried to stand up straight, her body reminded her of the risks she had taken and the sacrifices she had made in her quest for freedom.

Yet, in the midst of her discomfort and pain, Nabi found solace in the strength that resided within her. She was no stranger to enduring hardships, having faced countless challenges that had tested her limits and pushed her to the edge. It was a resilience she had inherited from her mother, a woman whose memory continued to inspire and guide Nabi.

With a determined breath, Nabi steadied herself. The pain she felt was a reminder of her journey, a journey that had forged her into the resilient and strong-willed person she was today. It was a journey that she was prepared to continue, drawing strength from her mother's memory and the indomitable spirit that ran in her veins.

She wanted to be like a butterfly. Free.

Like a butterfly, she was ready to spread her wings and embark on a journey of transformation, embracing her own flight to freedom.

As she gazed at the crowd of people making their way down the street, most of them heading to work, it felt like nobody really paid any attention to her.

She repeatedly attempted to catch the eye of a kind soul who might grant her the chance to borrow their phone for a brief moment.

Spotting a girl who appeared to be around the same age as Nabi, she approached with a determined effort to show respect.

"Hi there! I'm really sorry if I'm interrupting you. I understand this might come across as a bit forward, but would it be possible for you to lend me your phone for just a quick moment? I need to make a call," she began the conversation.

The girl's gaze shifted to the wounds on Nabi's face, which Nabi attempted to conceal beneath her sweatshirt hood. Instantly, the girl's expression transformed into one of genuine concern.

"Of course. But, are you alright?" she inquired with evident worry.

Nabi, feeling a hint of embarrassment over her bruised face, responded promptly, "Yeah, I'm okay. Thanks for being so kind and for helping me out." Her voice carried a strong undercurrent of gratitude, and a faint smile tugged at the corners of her lips.