The Queen Who Fights Back (by Lily Hastings) novel Chapter 29

Chapter 29

The instant those words escaped Ethan’s lips, his cheeks flushed a deep, vivid red. The sight of him so visibly flustered was almost endearing—anyone unaware of the context might have assumed he’d just embarrassed himself in front of the entire crowd.

The girls, who had been certain Ethan’s grand gesture was a heartfelt declaration of love toward Nova, suddenly froze in place, their expressions a mixture of shock and confusion. The atmosphere around them thickened, weighed down by an awkward silence that seemed to stretch endlessly.

Those who had always regarded Nova with disdain were rendered speechless, as if someone had delivered a sudden, unexpected blow to their confidence. Even Sophia, who had been watching intently, was caught off guard.

What on earth is going on right now? she wondered, her mind racing. Wasn’t Ethan supposed to confess his feelings to Nova? Then why, out of nowhere, did he call her his mentor?

“What—what is happening here?” one girl whispered, barely able to believe her ears.

“No way. I was sure he was about to confess. So why is he asking her to be his mentor instead?” another murmured, her tone filled with disbelief.

“So Nova didn’t seduce Ethan after all? Then why does he treat her with so much respect? Did I really just hear that?” a third voice chimed in, spreading confusion like wildfire.

A wave of incredulous murmurs rippled through the gathered students, their voices rising into a chorus of astonishment.

“Holy crap, a senior member of the Taekwondo Club just asked the sister of the Free Combat Club’s captain to mentor him?” someone shouted, breaking the silence and unleashing a torrent of excited chatter.

“Wait—does this mean the two clubs are finally making peace?” another voice shouted, and suddenly the entire crowd erupted into a chaotic buzz of speculation and excitement.

What most of them didn’t realize was that this wasn’t Ethan’s first time asking Nova to be his mentor. He had made the request several times before, but each time, Nova had refused. After all, Bloodforge—the mercenary group she belonged to—never took on apprentices.

Moreover, Nova had always assumed Ethan’s interest was just a fleeting curiosity from a spoiled rich kid, nothing more than a passing fancy.

But now, standing in front of the whole school, Ethan appeared genuinely serious. He wasn’t concerned with pride or appearances—his sincerity shone through.

Nova lowered her gaze slightly, her voice dropping to a quiet, almost hesitant tone. “Are you really serious about this?”

“Absolutely,” Ethan replied with earnest conviction. “I’m ready for whatever challenges you set, Nova. Please.”

For someone who had lived a life of ease and privilege, Ethan’s relentless pursuit of strength was unusual. Nova had never encountered anyone quite like him before, and that intrigued her deeply.

She lifted her chin just a little, a faint smile curling at the corners of her lips. After a brief pause, she decided to give him a chance.

“Alright then,” she said, “we’ll see how you perform during the survival training.”

If he proved himself, perhaps she would reconsider.

‘She’s actually giving me a chance?’ Ethan’s heart surged with hope, his face lighting up with excitement.

“I won’t disappoint you, Nova,” he promised solemnly, his voice filled with respect and determination.

Though their exchange was brief and straightforward, the students watching felt their hearts pounding in their chests, caught up in the intensity of the moment.

What was it about Nova that could make even someone as proud as Ethan swallow his ego just to become her student? they wondered in awe.

She shifted her gaze away from the podium, letting her eyes wander slowly over the crowd of students before lowering her lashes in a display of disinterest.

Just as she was about to look away completely, something caught her eye from the corner of her vision.

Two tall figures stood at the far edge of the field, partially concealed in shadow.

The man in front was imposing—tall and broad-shouldered, his athletic frame impossible to ignore despite his effort to remain hidden.

A black mask covered the bridge of his nose and much of his sharply defined face, adding to his air of mystery and arrogance. His short hair fell slightly over his forehead, completing the enigmatic image.

Next to him stood another man, clearly one of his subordinates.

The masked man was her only true rival in the international underworld—Damien Thorn.

Nova’s eyes narrowed ever so slightly. She knew exactly who he was. Like her, Damien was currently disguised as a student at Saint Laurel Royal Academy.

Not long ago, they had clashed fiercely.

But why was he here now? she wondered, the question lingering in her mind as she watched him silently from a distance.