Chapter 637
She adjusted her perspective quickly, acknowledging that Neal’s charisma rightly earned him admiration and affection from many.
He truly deserved it.
When the group stage concluded, Neal’s team clinched the lead in overall points and moved on to the semifinals.
As they left the venue, they were met with energetic chants from the fans. “Neal, always the champion! Don’t mess with him!”
At the sight of the enthusiastic crowd, Neal’s expression wavered, and he responded with a rueful smile.
He appeared visibly drained, the strain of the competition evident in his weary eyes, yet his smile conveyed a genuine warmth.
Bonita felt a pang of concern seeing Neal so spent. He had been pushing himself hard and was undoubtedly in need of rest.
Fernanda said, “No training tomorrow. Everyone deserves a day off to recharge before the semifinals.”
Neal ran a hand through his hair and nodded.
That night, a celebration was in order, and Sloane was adamant that Bonita participate.
“Come on, Bonita, it’s fine. My brother is coming to celebrate with us,” Sloane said with a cheerful grin. “You should be thrilled for us, right?” Unable to say no, Bonita accompanied them to the celebration.
During dinner, Beckett messaged her with an update from the police. They had issued a warrant and were on the lookout for that middle-aged man.
Bonita sighed in relief.
It was crucial that such a criminal be apprehended swiftly.
Sloane, reaching for a drink, paused as she saw the contents of Bonita’s screen and exclaimed loudly, “Bonita, what’s this? Did you report something? Has someone harmed you?”
Her voice drew the attention of everyone at the table towards Bonita.
Neal froze mid-sip, his eyes drawn to Bonita across the room.
A flush crept over her cheeks, a clear sign of her unease.
Bonita avoided his gaze, unable to forget their intimate online exchange, which filled her with shyness.
Sloane, sensing Bonita’s discomfort, leaned in with a playful nudge. “Hey, Bonita, what’s with the shy act? If someone’s messing with you, speak up! We’re here for you, okay? You shouldn’t be shouldering this alone.”
Bonita muttered, her voice barely above a whisper, “It’s nothing… just a middle-aged man who drugged me and tried to kidnap me.”
Sloane’s eyes widened in shock, her voice cracking with disbelief. “What? That’s nothing? Are you serious? That’s terrifying, Bonita!”
Neal set his glass down, his full attention on Bonita now.
Bonita, steadying herself, spoke with calm assurance. “I’ve already reported it to the police. They’ll catch him soon enough, so don’t worry.”
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