Chapter 927
She often helped the poor and injured, bringing them extra food and supplies. The cooks knew about her efforts.
Orion’s small hand gripped hers tightly, so tightly that Nina could feel his palm sweating.
“Look, do you like these two outfits?” Nina asked, using her free hand to hold up the clothes. Because of the constant upheaval, white clothes were impractical. She had bought one set of camouflage clothes and another in sky blue.
Since it was too far to carry many things, she planned to leave more supplies for Orion once she got him to the embassy and after they identified him.
Orion did not even glance at the clothes. His eyes were red and filled with fear.
Nina could not help but pull him into a comforting hug. “Don’t be afraid. These are our Birkhamese soldiers. They won’t treat you like soldiers from other countries. I promise you that. Now, try on your new clothes.”
She helped him dress, and although Orion did not speak, he cooperated quietly.
Nina lifted him onto the cot. “From now on, when I leave, don’t wait at the door. It’s dangerous. If you hear any noise, hide under the table or bed and don’t come out until it’s safe, okay?”
Birkham was no longer weak like a century ago, and while it could hold its own against other countries, a combined attack could still pose a threat. Other nations were ambitious and could launch an attack at any moment. If something happened suddenly, she feared that Orion would be scared and there would not be enough time to react.
Orion clutched her hand tightly. He shook his head, but his eyes showed determination. He was not afraid of the war, but he was terrified of not seeing Nina again.
To him, Nina gave him a unique sense of comfort that he did not find with anyone else. Especially when she hugged him, and he could hear her heartbeat, it made him feel incredibly safe. He did not want to lose Nina and wanted to stay with her forever.
Nina patted his shoulder, “As long as you’re with me, I won’t break my promise.”
Orion’s eyes flashed with panic. “Don’t… don’t leave… me… I want to stay… please…”
His voice was slow and hoarse, and his eyes filled with tears.
Nina’s heart ached. She stroked his head, “Let’s see what the embassy says.”
If Orion had any family left, she would need to reunite him with them. If not, and he wanted to stay with her, she wouldn’t be able to refuse him.
“I have no… family… You feel like… mom…” His voice was strained, and the redness in his eyes was clear.
Hearing him call her “mom” struck a deep chord in Nina’s heart. Scarlett had told her that her child was still alive, and she had hoped for five years.
For five years, there had been no news of Nash, and a memorial tomb had been erected in his honor.
Even though she had spent five years in Salterra, she had kept a close watch on domestic news, hoping to find that child.