Ch. 423: Mr. Edwards’ Unraveled Life Chapter 423
Chapter 423
Norah introduced herself simply, "Hi, I'm Norah."
Kevin cut in casually, "Alright, let's move out."
Meanwhile, the child was being comforted by one of the aunts.
Chana stayed with the group, but her eyes kept drifting toward Norah and Kevin. She watched their every move, still uneasy. Noticing beads of sweat on Kevin’s forehead, she saw her chance and pulled out a handkerchief she’d embroidered herself. "Captain Edwards, you’re sweating. Let me help you wipe it off," she said, reaching out.
Before her hand could touch him, Kevin tilted his head away, keeping his distance. His tone was icy. "Don’t bother."
Chana hesitated, then apologized, "I’m sorry, Captain Edwards. I just wanted to help."
Kevin pressed his lips together and ignored her, leaving Chana flustered. She didn’t know how to get closer to him.
Norah noticed the exchange. It was clear Chana and Kevin had history. Even something as simple as wiping sweat seemed loaded.
As Norah was lost in thought, Kevin suddenly spoke up. "You can help me wipe it." He said it loud enough for Chana to hear, making his intentions obvious.
Chana’s face fell, her hands clenching into fists.
Norah was caught off guard. "Huh?" She wasn’t sure if Kevin was talking to her or Chana. She looked up and found him staring directly at her.
They were deep in the mountains, weighed down by heavy armor and weapons, trudging through what felt like an endless hike. This was part of their regular training, and Kevin was drenched in sweat.
Arlene, watching the scene unfold, was practically giddy. This is straight out of a drama, she thought. Go on, wipe his sweat! Mark your territory!
But Norah simply handed Kevin a tissue from her pocket. "Here, I only have these. If it’s not enough, ask someone else."
Arlene’s excitement deflated instantly.
Norah kept walking, unsure why she’d reacted that way. Kevin was the one who’d divorced her, yet now he was trying to get close again. It frustrated her. She didn’t understand what he was playing at.
Kevin, unfazed by the rejection, calmly wiped his sweat with the tissue.
"Captain Edwards, let me help you!" Levi offered, trying to be helpful.
Kevin shot him a cold look and kicked his leg. "Get lost."
Levi was baffled. Why does he always take it out on me?
Norah and Kevin walked side by side, barely speaking. Arlene, ever the chatterbox, kept the conversation going.
"Why didn’t you wipe his sweat? That was your chance!" Arlene whispered, practically bursting with frustration.
Norah shrugged. "Why would I? That’s too personal."
Arlene glanced back at Chana. "That woman with the kid is watching. This would’ve made her back off!"
"Why?" Norah asked, turning to Arlene.
Arlene lowered her voice. "I think she’s testing you. She’s trying to figure you out, see how you’ll react. It’s all a game."
"Seriously?" Norah found it amusing and didn’t give it much thought.
Arlene insisted, "She sees you as competition. Trust me, I’ve been there."
Norah wasn’t bothered. "What’s the point? If a man truly likes you, he won’t be swayed by anyone else. Women fighting over men is pointless. It’s not worth the energy."
Arlene nodded, considering Norah’s words. "You’ve got a point."
Norah added, "When you like someone, if they’re not into you, move on. There are plenty of men out there."
Arlene looked thoughtful, though still a bit confused.
When they returned to the village, the aunts were busy drying herbs. Norah pitched in, spreading the herbs out to dry so they could be packed and sold later. The villagers worked hard, and Norah admired their dedication.
Nearby, Kevin stood drinking water, his shirt soaked with sweat. He drank quickly, water dripping down his neck and into his collar. Chana couldn’t take her eyes off him. She hadn’t had much interaction with Kevin, but his looks and his role as team captain made him seem like a safe harbor to her. She was tired of the hardships of war and believed her beauty and talent could secure her a better life. But her attention kept shifting to Norah.
Chana knew she couldn’t wait any longer.
"Norah, come change your clothes. You’re soaked," one of the aunts called out.
Arlene chimed in, "You can borrow mine. We’re about the same size."
"Okay," Norah agreed.