Stars Waited Above Empty Streets by Lorin Wren 58

Chapter 58 Caught on Camera 

Finished 

“Alright, kid. Not everyone plays nice like you do,” Asher said. “The Awakened are in a league of their own. They have exceptional standing like no other. There’s a saying for it: cross mental or elemental power users if you must, but you never mess with an Awakened.” 

Ava fell silent for a moment. “Wait. If the Awakened rank that high, doesn’t that mean Jane’s terrifyingly strong?” 

“It’s not their rank,” he explained. “It’s their gravity. Awakened women attract high–tier mental and elemental power users. The higher her rank, the stronger her partners. Picking a fight with one means picking a fight with many. The power isn’t isolated.” 

Seeing her wilt, Asher tried to cheer her up. “Relax. You’re a Morren, no less. If anyone messes with you, fight back if you can. If you can’t, run first, then let me deal with it.” 

“Even an Awakened?” she pressed. 

“Then we send Jane,” he replied casually. “She’ll put them in their place. Problem solved. And honestly, most people already avoid her. Plus, Aunt Margaret’s a countess. We’re covered.” 

Ava laughed despite herself. Sounds like escalation work both ways–and I have people behind me. 

“Enough gloomy thoughts,” Asher added. “Today’s about enjoying yourself. Don’t dwell on it.” 

“I get it.” Ava let out a long breath. “It’s just overwhelming. I just wish things were simpler.” 

As the individual race approached, they settled into a prime spot, snacks in hand. Asher appeared casual, yet his presence alone created a silent buffer no one dared cross. 

Music thundered through the stadium. The venue pulsed with sound as fans screamed names with everything they had. 

Ava was completely clueless about racing–she barely even followed celebrities. Without Asher, she would have skipped this entirely. 

“No way, that’s Derek Curso. He won last year. Didn’t expect him back.” 

“Vance Ashley’s here. So is Miles Trent.” 

“This isn’t even a pro league. Why are professionals stealing the spotlight? Might as well tell the regular racers to go home.” 

“Why not? Nothing says they can’t join. You just sound bitter.” 

“With prize money like this, you’d show up too, ranking points or not. Don’t pretend otherwise.” 

Ava sidled closer and asked, “Who’s your bet on?” 

“Hard to say,” Asher replied, popping a snack into her mouth. “Races flip all the time. Let’s just watch.” 

It wasn’t a pro event, but the race drew massive attention thanks to the prize pool. Those not present crowded online livestreams. 

15:51 Thu, Jan 8 s l J 

Chapter 58 Caught on Camera 

67 

Finished 

One mouthful at a time, Ava ate what Asher offered. Their dynamic didn’t go unnoticed–the pair soon sparked silent irritation from those around them. 

What was this–public affection torture? 

But Asher’s pressure silenced any complaints. 

Watching Ava, Asher’s heart softened completely. This was the sister he had always wanted. Ava was gentle and warm, nothing like Jane’s explosive temper. Compared to Jane, Ava was a balm. His long–suffering heart finally caught a break. 

The livestream cameras zeroed in fast. Asher fed Ava with a grin, while Ava fretted over every bite. Neither of them realized they were on–screen. 

The cameraman assumed romance and kept filming. 

“D*mn it, I hate couples. Public affection should be illegal.” 

“Gross. Who asked for this?” 

“Lucky b*stard. Wish that was me instead.” 

“She’s gorgeous. I’m jealous beyond reason. I’d fight him.” 

“Oof, that head pat? I’m dying over here.” 

By now, Ava was already stuffed. When Asher tried again, she refused firmly. “I’m done.” 

“Okay,” he agreed and put the snacks away. 

He wiped crumbs from her lips, then calmly looked straight toward the camera. The feed immediately cut 

away. 

“What the hell? Bring them back! Nobody cares about this other dude!” 

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