Dangerous connection (Freenbecky)

Chapter 14:

As the evening drew closer, tension hung thick in the air. The farmhouse, usually quiet and safe, now felt like a battleground. Freen kept a steady eye on every exit, checking in with Nam, Heng, and Kade as they fortified their defenses. They all knew that Mike was only getting closer, and the clock was ticking.

Becky sat nearby, her innocence still shining even amidst the danger. She quietly watched Freen, her concern for him growing with every glance. She knew he felt the weight of everyone's safety, and she wanted nothing more than to share that burden. She walked over to him, standing by his side in her gentle, supportive way.

"You're doing everything you can, Freen," she said softly, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. "We're all here because we trust you. I trust you."

Freen turned to her, the tension in his eyes softening at her words. "Thank you, Becky," he murmured, and without thinking, he reached out, gently tucking a stray strand of her hair behind her ear. Their eyes met, and for a moment, the world outside didn't matter. He knew he cared for her more deeply than he'd allowed himself to admit.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the room, Noey sat with Irin, who was carefully reapplying his bandages with a delicate touch. Noey watched her, his usual cocky demeanor softened by her kindness. He knew that beneath her calm exterior, she was worried. After all, Noey had been injured protecting her, and it was something Irin couldn't shake.

"You know," Noey said with a small smile, trying to lighten the moment, "I didn't think I'd end up with my own guardian angel."

Irin blushed but rolled her eyes playfully. "You're the one who tried to play hero, Noey. I'm just keeping you from doing something reckless again."

"Is that so?" he teased, grinning. "Then I guess you're stuck with me."

Nearby, Kade, Nam, and Heng exchanged amused glances. It was a rare sight to see Noey so smitten, and they couldn't help but take note.

Nam nudged Heng, whispering, "I think someone's finally met his match."

Kade chuckled. "About time. Noey needs someone who can keep up with him."

As they shared a quiet laugh, they became aware of Becky and Freen, who were now sitting close together. Becky's hand rested protectively on Freen's arm, her eyes filled with an innocent, unwavering trust. It was clear she was his anchor.

Nam leaned over to Kade, grinning mischievously. "Looks like Freen isn't as cold-hearted as he pretends."

"Maybe Becky's finally thawing him out," Kade replied with a wink.

Just then, Freen heard their teasing and shot them a warning glare, though he couldn't help the faint smile tugging at his lips. "You all have too much time on your hands," he muttered, though his tone was lighter than usual.

But before they could continue, a loud crash sounded from outside, making everyone freeze. In an instant, Freen was on his feet, instincts kicking in. He motioned for everyone to stay back, then signaled to Nam and Heng to check the front while he guarded the rear with Kade.

Becky, determined to stay close to Freen, followed him, clutching a small flashlight. "Freen, please... I want to help."

He looked at her, about to protest, but the determination in her innocent eyes left him with no choice. "Alright, but stay close," he said, his voice gentle yet firm.

As they moved through the dimly lit house, they heard footsteps approaching from outside, growing louder by the second. Freen's heart pounded, and he signaled for Becky to stay hidden. But the footsteps were accompanied by muffled voices—and suddenly, a familiar voice cut through the tension.

"Mike's men will be here soon. We've gotta hurry!" It was the contact from earlier, urgently trying to warn them.

Relieved but still on high alert, Freen opened the door, letting him in quickly. The contact was breathing heavily. "I had to warn you," he panted, "Mike's men are closing in. They'll be here any moment."

Freen nodded, his mind racing. They needed a way out—fast. "Thanks for the heads up," he said, and quickly turned to everyone. "Gather what you need. We're moving out, now."

Noey moved toward Irin, helping her up as she secured her own supplies. He whispered to her, "Stick close to me. I'm not letting you out of my sight."

Becky glanced up at Freen, her face filled with trust despite the danger. She reached for his hand. "I'm ready."

Freen took her hand firmly, nodding, then led the way as they all slipped through the back exit and into the cover of the nearby trees. But just as they thought they were safe, a gunshot rang out, and Mike's men descended on them, shouting and armed.

"Split up!" Freen shouted, urging everyone to scatter and find cover.

Becky stuck close to him, ducking behind a tree. As the bullets flew past them, she looked up at Freen, her innocent eyes wide with fear and determination. "We're going to get through this, right?" she whispered, holding his hand tightly.

"Yes, Becky," he assured her, shielding her as they moved. "I won't let anything happen to you."

Noey and Irin huddled together, hiding behind a fallen log as they tried to avoid the gunfire. Irin gripped his hand, her face pale but resolute. "This is terrifying."

"Don't worry," Noey said, giving her a reassuring smile. "I've got your back. Just like before."

Meanwhile, Nam and Heng fought back, using every bit of cover they could find, each watching the other's back with a practiced teamwork that spoke volumes. Nam shot Heng a brief, reassuring smile as they advanced. "Always the two of us, right?"

Heng nodded, a fierce determination in his eyes. "Always."

The skirmish was chaotic, but after a tense few moments, they managed to overpower Mike's men, who fled back into the woods. The group gathered together, shaken but unharmed.

Finally, Freen pulled Becky into a tight embrace, relief washing over him. He could feel her heart pounding against his chest as she hugged him back, wrapping her arms around him protectively.

"I knew you'd keep us safe, Freen," she whispered.

Noey, still catching his breath, looked over at Freen and Becky and couldn't resist one last jab. "Seems like you two make a pretty good team."

Nam, catching the tender scene, nodded approvingly. "Maybe Becky's innocence is exactly what he needed."

And though Freen tried to hide it, the faintest blush crossed his face as he met Becky's gaze, feeling his resolve grow stronger with every second. With her by his side, he knew they could face whatever challenges lay ahead—together.