Chapter 33 - Whos In More Pain? (1/2)

Halia immediately pulled off her jacket and wrapped it around Jackson's arm and shoulder to stop the bleeding. ”Let me get you to the hospital,” she said.

”No, not this time,” Jackson said as he quickly held onto Halia's wrist.

Halia looked down at her wrist. ”Why not?” she asked.

”Please...just trust me,” he pleaded.

Halia looked into Jackson's eyes. They were hopeful and gentle. She didn't know why and how he got hurt, but she just wanted him to be OK. So, Halia ended up nodding her head.

”My car keys are in my pocket,” Jackson said weakly.

Halia immediately stuck her hand in Jackson's pocket and rummaged around for his keys. Jackson saw the worried expression on Halia's face as she moved in closer. He had originally considered not meeting her, but he couldn't bear to leave her all alone so late at night. The sky was dark and their only light source was a dim street lamp, but Jackson could clearly see Halia's trembling hands and feel her shaky breaths. This was the reason why he ignored her earlier; he didn't want her to be a part of this world.

”Are you in a lot of pain?” she asked as she finally pulled out the car key. ”Where did you park?”

”I'm fine,” Jackson reassured with a gentle smile as he started to lead the way. ”Do you mind coming to my place?” he asked.

Halia was too worried to think about anything else at that moment, so she simply replied, ”Just show me the way.”

...

Eventually, the two arrived at an expensive luxury apartment block. Halia had driven past this place a few times before and admired the grand exterior, but she had never imagined stepping foot inside since it was way above what she could afford.

”Do you live in Hopson Estate?” Halia asked.

Jackson did not answer as he covered himself with a coat and walked in through the front door. The guards at the entrance seemed to recognize him as they bowed. ”Welcome back, Mr. Wu,” they said in unison.

Halia scurried in behind him and tried to hold back her amazement. ”He must be a very successful arms dealer,” she thought to herself. No wonder the SPU were after him.

Halia followed Jackson into an elevator and they soon arrived at his apartment on the 26th floor. As soon as they stepped in, Halia immediately noticed the floor-to-ceiling window that looked over the city. The view was stunning.

But, she didn't allow herself to be distracted for too long.