The Queen Who Fights Back (by Lily Hastings) novel Chapter 58

Chapter 58

Nova possessed such an intimate knowledge of the platform’s inner workings that it was as if she had engineered Crimson Web herself. Felix, Evie, Freya, Dustin, and Isaac stared at her, their expressions a mixture of awe and disbelief.

As the original creator of Crimson Web, Nova understood every nuance of the platform’s design better than anyone else. Yet, despite her deep familiarity, she was cautious about revealing too much to people she hadn’t fully trusted. Although she sensed Felix and his team were dependable, she chose to keep her secrets close to her chest.

Handing the laptop back to Isaac, Nova said coolly, “If you doubt me, just ask around in the underground circles.” She knew the hidden code wasn’t a secret only to the founder; seasoned veterans of the international underworld were well aware of its existence.

The stunned reaction from Felix and his team revealed their inexperience—a clear sign they were newcomers to the shadowy world, like novices unaware of the unspoken rules.

“No, no, it’s not that we don’t believe you,” Felix quickly interjected, his tone eager to clarify. “It’s just… this is the first time we’ve ever heard any of this. Thank you for pointing it out. Without your insight, we’d still be convinced our old organization was hunting us.”

He gave Nova a respectful nod, his manners impeccable despite the tension.

“I’m not joining your team,” Nova said flatly. She wasn’t someone who accepted every invitation that came her way, but that didn’t mean she wouldn’t cooperate in other ways.

Narrowing her eyes, she added, “I do admire what you’ve accomplished at such a young age. You have real potential. But right now, I have more pressing matters than becoming part of your group.”

Dustin, ever the blunt one, couldn’t wrap his head around it. “You say you admire us, so why not join? Felix might be a low-level assassin, but he’s completed two SSS-rank missions. Even many high-level assassins haven’t done that.”

He truly believed Felix was among the top hidden operatives at SLRA, and that their team’s strength outmatched most others.

Dustin wondered silently, ‘Nova has shown some impressive skills lately, but deep down, she’s an assassin. Doesn’t she feel lonely or scared working by herself?’

Before meeting Nova, Dustin had expected her to be thrilled by the invitation. Instead, she remained calm and collected, seemingly unfazed.

“Is it because I exposed you as an assassin in public?” Evie asked nervously. “If that’s the case, I’m sorry, Nova.” She lowered her head, mimicking Felix’s solemn gesture.

Nova couldn’t help but find the siblings’ mirrored apologies amusing.

Felix gently pulled Evie and Dustin back. As the team’s most socially adept member, he spoke with quiet understanding. “Being with your family is more important than joining us, right? I thought you might say no, but I still wanted to ask.”

For someone who had completed two SSS-rank missions, Felix’s communication skills were remarkably smooth and sincere.

Nova respected his sharpness. She handed him a contact card and smiled faintly. “If you ever need me, get in touch. I won’t join your team, but you can hire me.”

Fiona was absent due to a leg injury.

“Don’t wander off tonight,” Charles warned his three children with solemnity, as if he sensed unseen dangers lurking. “This ball isn’t as simple as it seems. Reckless moves could be dangerous.”

Dressed sharply in a tailored suit, Charles carried the air of a mature, composed middle-aged man. Maxwell clearly inherited his father’s good looks.

“Got it, Dad,” Hannah replied obediently, though inside she was bursting with curiosity. Usually sharp-tongued and willful, she softened around her strict father, displaying a sweetness rarely seen.

“Dad, I’ll look after them,” Maxwell promised seriously.

Nova kept her hands tucked in her pockets, offering no reply. She was definitely planning to “wander off” tonight.

Charles glanced at his wristwatch and repeated his warning before hurrying away. “Be good. Don’t wander off.”

No sooner had Charles left than Hannah’s friend Claire, one of SLRA’s prom queens, hurried over and linked arms with Hannah.

As Claire approached, she shot Nova a sharp glare and lowered her voice dramatically. “Hannie, you won’t believe what I just heard…”