RISE OF THE EX-CONVICT

CHAPTER 13

Niçholas's heart raced as he looked over his shoulder, his gaze meeting a suspicious crowd. Their eyes brimmed with doubt and uncertainty, causing a knot to form in his stomach. He wondered how he would convince them to leave the room so he could care for India unimpeded. He glanced at India and averted his gaze to the crowd again.

Awareness settled upon him like a heavy cloak, as his eyes fell upon India's mother, her face contorted with anger at their proximity.

With a clearing of his throat, Niçholas summoned his confidence, willing himself to speak with authority. "I kindly request that everyone evacuate this room immediately," he announced firmly, his voice resolute. "I assure you, I will take care of India myself. There's no need to take her to the hospital, I promise."

India's mother, however, was not so easily swayed. Upset, she stepped forward, her eyes burning with anger. She looked directly at Niçholas, her voice laced with skepticism, "What skills do you possess that mak