Chapter 967

Nanshan turned to Luke, giving him a look that spoke volumes.

"Heading back?"

"Yeah, they've already reached Westwood. First thing tomorrow morning, they're coming to take you back."

"I'm not going back! I want to stay with my master."

Luke gave Nanshan's shoulder a reassuring pat, chuckling softly, "I figured you'd

say that. Tomorrow morning, I'll be right there with you. Just back me up and explain why you want to stay."

"What should I say?"

Luke grinned, "Tell them you want to make a living here in Westwood. Say you've found your niche with me and plan to stick around for the long haul."

Nanshan nodded, still a bit unsure, "Alright, I'll go with that."

"Don't worry, I've got your back. We'll make sure you can stay."

Nanshan sighed in agreement, though his mood was still downcast. Luke noticed and suggested they get some rest before the big meeting.

...

Morning rolled around.

Josefina drove over to the hotel to pick up Alfie, and once he was on board, they headed to a local spot known for its great brunch.

Before long, Luke showed up with Nanshan in tow.

As the four of them gathered, Luke felt the weight of Alfie's intense gaze, sending a shiver down his spine.

Alfie sat there, exuding authority without saying a word. His eyes seemed to see right through you.

Luke and Nanshan took their seats, both hesitant to break the silence.

Alfie finally spoke, his voice carrying a natural gravitas.

"Nanshan,come back with me. You've left the training grounds and caused Josie some trouble. Returning with me will let your master focus on his work without any worries."

Nanshan shook his head defiantly, "I'm not going. I want to stay with my master. I care about being here, and no one is tearing us apart!"

Luke was taken aback by Nanshan's earnestness; if he didn't know better, he'd think

the kid had been pining for Josefina for ages.

Josefina gently pulled Nanshan back into his seat. "Nanshan, take it easy. There's

no rush. My master is just looking out for you."

"Master, this old man is up to no good. I don't need his concern."

Alfie and Luke exchanged glances, momentarily at a loss.

Luke knew full well Alfie's status and influence and wouldn't dream of speaking in such a tone But Nanshan could, and he did, leaving Alfie with no comeback.

Nanshan pressed on, "I can make money. I'm not leaving."

He turned to Luke, "Speak up, won't you? You were all talk yesterday."

Luke hesitated, but with Alfie's eyes on him, he had no choice. With a nervous chuckle, he said, "Sir, here's the thing. Nanshan works at my company. He makes a monthly salary, and provide room and board. He has enough for his expenses."

Nanshan nodded, "I like it here. I want to stay."

Alfie asked, "Nanshan, how much do you earn monthly? After rent and food, do you have enough left over?"

Nanshan looked to Luke, unsure of how to answer.

Luke quickly added, "He makes enough to get by. Nanshan is a good earner; his income is sufficient."

"Master, please help me out here. I don't want to leave. I want to stay," Nanshan earnestly pleaded with Josefina.

Josefina, initially wanting to send Nanshan back, saw his determination and couldn't bring herself to persuade him otherwise.

Seeing this, Alfie realized he couldn't force Nanshan to leave against his will.

When Nanshan made up his mind, there was no changing it. So, everyone agreed to let Nanshan stay with Luke for now.