章節 27: Letty

Mia left and returned to her apartment, leaving Mike sitting awkwardly on the sofa, his mind racing with confusion and a tinge of panic.

"Damn, she was so damn tempting! I almost lost control there," Mike muttered under his breath, beads of sweat forming on his forehead. "If it weren't for that damn Buddha statue staring right at me, I swear all hell would've broken loose!"

'something else finna gets loose if you didn't hold back', Mike immediately sarcastically jabbed at his previous words.

He couldn't comprehend the sudden shift in Mia's behavior and wondered if their intoxicated state from the previous night had anything to do with it.

It felt like he had narrowly escaped a perilous situation, and he couldn't help but let out a few choice expletives as he contemplated the events that had transpired.

Mike decided to take a cold shower to make his thoughts clearer and sort out his raging hehe.

Leaving the confusing encounter behind, Mike and Mia met up and made their way to the garage.

Initially, Mike had planned to meet with John, but he decided against it, thinking it would be best not to provoke John further.

Mike believed that John preferred to keep his presence hidden from others.

Mike knew that John and Parker had remarkable physical strength and resilience, which meant they should be close to recovery by the next morning.

Impressed by their endurance, Mike anticipated their progress in the training.

"So, Mike, what are your plans for tonight?" Mia asked Mike with enthusiasm, her curiosity piqued.

"Oh, well, I was actually thinking about having a hot pot," Mike replied, his tone filled with intrigue. "You know, hot pot represents China's tolerance and inclusiveness. It's a beautiful symbol."

"Really?" Mia responded, her interest piqued. "I've never thought of it that way before. Hot pot does bring people together, doesn't it?"

"Exactly!" Mike exclaimed, a smile forming on his face.

"Hey, Mike," Mia asked with curiosity, "tell me more about this hot pot you mentioned. What kind of stuff goes into it?"

Mike leaned back, a confident grin on his face. "Well, Mia, hot pot is a real culinary masterpiece. It's all about bringing together different ingredients. You've got your fresh veggies like bok choy and Chinese cabbage, giving it that natural touch. Then there are these tasty mushroom balls, a mix of mushrooms and spices, packed with flavor. And let's not forget the thin slices of meat, like juicy beef or pork, adding that extra punch."

Mia's eyes lit up with admiration, appreciating Mike's knowledge. "I can see why it's considered fancy. It's not just about the ingredients, but how they all come together. It's like a blend of different things, just like our own unique stories."

Mike nodded, a touch of nostalgia in his expression. "Exactly, Mia. Hot pot is all about unity and diversity, just like our own experiences. We come from different backgrounds, but together we create something amazing, just like the flavors in a hot pot."

Mia smiled, a mix of warmth and playfulness in her eyes. "That's why I enjoy these moments with you, Mike. It's not just about the food, but the stories and connections we share. Tonight's hot pot experience is going to be unforgettable, I can tell."

Mike's gaze intensified. "You bet, Mia. We'll make tonight one hell of a feast, combining flavors, memories, and the thrill of our journeys. It's time to savor life to the fullest, just like we used to savor victory."

The mere thought of the hot pot made Mia's mouth water, and she eagerly looked forward to the evening meal.

At that moment, Mia received a phone call. She answered it with a pleasant smile, assuring the caller that everything was fine. It was Vince who had called, and Mia asked if he had informed her about something.

Assuming Mia's understanding, Vince apologized to her, causing her to correct him, saying, "You should apologize to Letty."

After a brief silence on Vince's end, he requested Mia's assistance in conveying a message to Mike.

He asked Mike to take care of Letty and mentioned that Letty might not explicitly seek help, but she could benefit from it.

Vince trusted Mike to be of support in Letty's situation.

Mia acknowledged Vince's request, assuring him that she hadn't been in contact with Letty for a while.

After a brief exchange, the call ended with Vince advising Mia to be careful before hanging up.

Relieved to hear that her brother was safe for the time being, Mia shared the news with Mike.

However, she couldn't shake off the guilt of neglecting her friends, especially Letty.

Mia glanced at Mike, giving him a reproachful look that left him puzzled.

Mike wondered why Mia seemed to forget about Letty and herself.

Perplexed by her actions, he questioned why she rolled her eyes at him.

Realizing her negligence, Mia took out her phone and dialed Letty's number, hoping to catch up with her and inquire about her well-being.

Letty lazily answered the call, and Mia greeted her with concern. "Hey Letty, it's Mia. I've been meaning to catch up with you. How have you been?"

However, Letty remained silent on the other end of the line, making Mia feel remorseful for not contacting her earlier and unaware of Letty's current situation.

Mia continued, "I understand it's been tough, Letty. But remember, you're not alone. We're family, and we'll always be here for you. Don't hesitate to lean on us."

But Letty remains silent.

Mia's voice became even more reassuring as she added, "I spoke with Vince recently, and he mentioned that Dom is safe for now. But, Letty, we need to be careful. The police are still after him. We need to watch our backs and stay together."

Letty's silence on the other end of the line prompted Mike to break the tension. "Hey Letty, it's Mike. I'm Dom's brother, the guy from the garage" he said, hoping to offer some reassurance and support.

"I know it's tough, Letty. But remember, you're not alone in this. Reach out to those you trust, to the people who have your back. We'll navigate this together, and I promise we'll come out stronger on the other side," Mike concluded, hoping that his words would inspire Letty to consider reaching out for the support she needed.

Again, Letty remained silent, leaving Mike anxious and wondering if Letty had been recruited as an undercover agent by the police. Despite his curiosity, he couldn't bring himself to ask directly.

Finally, Letty found her voice, her tone a mix of gratitude and determination. "Mike, I appreciate your offer to help. But you need to understand, I've always been able to handle my own problems. I don't need anyone to fight my battles for me."

Mia chimed in, understanding Letty's fierce independence. "Letty, we know you're strong and capable, but that doesn't mean you have to face everything alone. We're family, and family looks out for each other."

Letty sighed, her voice softening. "I know you both mean well, and I appreciate your concern. I'll take Dom's message to heart and make sure I'm not isolated. But remember, I've got my own way of doing things."

The call ended, leaving Mike deep in thought.

He respected Letty's determination and understood her need for independence.

He couldn't help but admire her strength, but he also couldn't shake off the worry that lingered in his mind.

On the other side of the conversation, Letty, having just woken up, splashed water on her face, urging herself to stay strong and not succumb to despair.

She picked up her phone and dialed an unfamiliar number, her voice determined.

The phone call connected and a mysterious voice came out greeting Letty, "Are you ready."

Letty, not surprised answered with determination, "I've waited long enough. It's time to take matters into my own hands."

The Mysterious Voice responded with an assuring tone. "You're on the right path, Letty. Stay committed, and you'll discover the answers you seek."

Letty's voice conveyed her unwavering resolve. "I've faced danger before. I won't back down now."

The Mysterious Voice acknowledged Letty's determination while issuing a warning. "Your determination is commendable. However, remember that this task carries inherent risks."

Letty acknowledged the risks, her voice filled with unwavering determination. "I understand the risks, but I refuse to let the truth remain concealed."

The Mysterious Voice agreed to honor the agreement, their voice holding a promise. "Very well. We will fulfill our end of the deal. Meet me at 43 Jack Street."

Letty affirmed her presence, expressing gratitude. "I'll be there. And thank you."

After hanging up, Letty's gaze became resolute. She took a deep breath, glanced at a group photo on her bedside table, and grasped the cross pendant around her neck.

With a whispered plea for Dom's blessing, she grabbed her black coat, swiftly zipped it up, and strode out of the room, determined to face the challenges ahead.

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I'll post the next two chapters in a bit, I'm running late at my jiujitsu practice

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