Sloane furrowed her brows slightly, focused as she checked his pulse. After a moment, she gently shook her head. “Your body’s a bit weak, and you caught a chillst night. We need to get that out of your system as soon as possible.” Her voice was soft, tinged with concern.

    Lucas looked at her, a wave of warmth rising in his chest, but he said, “It’s just a bit of cold. I can handle it. Besides, now that you’re awake, I’ve got nothing to worry about.”

    Sloane smiled with confidence. “Of course. Just give me a moment to recover, and I’ll take care of it.” Her smile was subtle, but it still stirred something in Lucas.

    Then she seemed to remember something. Her expression tightened. “Those assassins… are they still nearby?”

    Lucas’s face turned serious in an instant. He gave a small nod. “Most likely. Which means we can’t stay here long. Once you’re feeling a little better, we move.”

    Sloane bit her lip, a sh of resolve in her eyes. “I’m fine. Let’s go now. Every minute we stay here, the danger increases.” She tried to stand, but the pain from her wound drained the color from her face and made her stagger.

    Lucas reacted instantly, catching her. His brows furrowed. “Don’t push yourself. You’re still too weak.” His voice was low, firm, leaving no room for argument.

    Sloane shot him a reluctant look but eventually nodded. “Fine. But we can’t afford to waste too much time.”

    Lucas began packing, pouringst night’s boiled water into bamboo tubes to carry with them.

    Sloane sat nearby, checking her own pulse. She already knew from Lucas that he had removed the bullet.

    As a doctor, one touch of her pulse told her just how close to death she’d beenst night. But Lucas hadn’t said a word about any of it.

    11:34 Satb, /bSep 6

    Chapter 181 Hurry and Escape

    :

    Thinking about how carefully he’d taken care of her, her heart softened.

    “How is it? Anything wrong?” Lucas asked when he noticed her silence.

    b41 /b

    +10 Free Coins

    “I’m fine.” Sloane looked up and shook her head. “Good thing you acted quickly and took the bullet outst night. Otherwise, it would’ve been a disaster.”

    She ced a hand on his shoulder and slowly stood. Her face was still pale, but her energy was clearly returning. “My body’s already starting to recover. I’ll find some herbs to put on the woundter–that should help it heal faster.”

    Lucas gave a nod. He was still worried, but knowing how skilled she was, he chose not to push it.

    He finished packing their remaining supplies and slung the bag over his shoulder, ready to move.

    The two of them left the cave and made their way quickly down a narrow trail through the forest. Sloane was still weak, but she walked with steady steps, not slowing them down at all.

    Lucas stayed on high alert, his eyes constantly scanning the surroundings in case the assassins showed up again.

    As they moved, Sloane searched for familiar herbs. It didn’t take long before she spotted a few that could help dispel the cold. She carefully gathered them.

    “These should help ease your symptoms. Once we find a safe ce, I’ll make you a proper decoction.” She handed the herbs to Lucas as she spoke.

    “Alright.” Lucas took them and tucked them away. He nced at her pale face, concern in his eyes. “How are you holding up? Want to take a break?”

    Sloane shook her head. “I’m fine. We’re still too close to where we fell. We need to get farther away.”

    No sooner had she said that than Lucas suddenly mped a hand over her mouth and gestured for her to stay silent.