章 457: Cannon fodders

"Ouch…"

"Penny?" Hugo took a large step forward, grasping her arm as she winced and seemed to lose her balance. "Are you okay?"

Suddenly, the ringing in Penny's ears stopped. She remained frozen momentarily, ensuring the pain had fully subsided. When it did, she looked up at him.

The worry in Hugo's eyes was visible, his brows furrowed. "Everything okay?"

"Uh… mhm," she hummed, forcing a brief smile. "I'm okay."

"Are you sure?"

"Mhm." Penny cleared her throat and straightened her posture, facing him squarely. "Second Brother, when did I say that again?"

"Ah, last night."

Penny pressed her lips into a thin line and sighed. "I don't know why I said those things, but don't worry. I don't hate you," she reassured. "It's probably the alcohol… or that I didn't recognize you. Anyway, I think I'll just return to my room and rest. I wasn't feeling well."

"Oh."