Jalen’s posture tensed, but Hannah reassured him with a pat on his shoulder.
“Relax, Jalen, these guys are old friends.” She introduced them. “This is Dilan and Dotson. I met them during my studies abroad. They’re twins and just started college this year. And this is my cousin. I’m here for him.”
She gestured to Jalen.
Recognizing Jalen’s relation to Hannah, Dilan and Dotson bowed together. “Oh, you’re the boss’s cousin. Our apologies!”
Jalen, still on guard, grabbed Hannah’s wrist and pulled her slightly away.
In a low voice, he asked, “What kind of friends are these? Can we trust them?
You haven’t been in touch for years, and there are rumors about gangs in Newfort…”
Hannah quickly interrupted her cousin’s overthinking. “Jalen, relax. I’m in touch with them all these years. No need to worry.”
Jalen found it difficult not to be concerned as he observed the two men standing across from him.
Dilan and Dotson were smiling at him, which left Jalen at a loss for words.
He couldn’t help but think they didn’t seem like the most trustworthy individuals.
“Come on, don’t just stand there. Since you’re here, why not pay a visit to my cousin’s art studio?”
Dilan and Dotson exchanged glances. They didn’t mind at all and turned their attention to Jalen.
Hannah also looked at him expectantly. “Jalen, is that alright with you?”
“Well… Okay,” Jalen agreed, knowing he wouldn’t turn down Hannah’s suggestion.
Books Chapters Are Daily Updated Join & Stay Updated for All Books Updates…
“You guys have a car, right? Just follow us in your car.”
“Alright, let’s head out.”
Once in Jalen’s car, Hannah gazed out at the cityscape. The buildings were so different from those back home, and the old-fashioned streets helped ease her anxiety.
“Why are you coming to Newfort all of a sudden?” Jalen asked as he drove the car.
Hannah offered a smile in response. “Just felt like seeing you.”
Jalen glanced at Hannah while driving and chuckled, “I’d be thrilled if you came just for me. But that’s not really why you’re here, is it?”
“You know, Jalen, sometimes playing dumb isn’t so bad.”
Jalen sighed, “Newfort’s different from home. Getting a gun here is tough, but it’s legal. Plus, there are gangs around. I’m worried you might get in trouble.”
“I’m not one to stir up trouble, and I’ll stay out of harm’s way. You’ve been here a while without issues, right?”