Bellemere's sharp challenge was full of oppression.
Lorne knew he had been exposed, and continuing to hide was meaningless; it would only deepen the other party's misunderstanding.
He decisively stepped out from the shadow of the orange tree, slowly raising his hands in a non-threatening gesture to prevent an overreaction, a slightly apologetic smile on his face.
"My apologies, I mean no harm."
His voice was calm, attempting to ease the tense atmosphere.
Bellemere's guard did not drop. She shielded her two daughters even tighter behind her, her gray eyes scrutinizing the strange man who had suddenly appeared.
He looked very young, dressed in clothes of good quality but strange style, neither like a pirate nor a nearby villager, but appearances were the least trustworthy thing on the high seas.
"Who are you? Why are you sneaking around here?"
"My name is Lorne."
Lorne lowered his arms and answered candidly:
"It's a long story. I ran into an accident and woke up on this coast not long ago. I was originally looking for a village to ask about the situation, but just as I got nearby, I saw that uncle wearing the windmill police hat carrying this little one heading this way."
His gaze shifted to Nami, who was sheltered behind Bellemere, his words carrying a hint of teasing.
"I was just a little curious about what happened, so I followed to watch the fun. I didn't expect to be discovered."
Hearing this explanation, Bellemere's tense body relaxed slightly.
The man's explanation sounded plausible, and his mention of Genzo and Nami stealing books indirectly confirmed that he had indeed only just followed them.
She turned back and glared fiercely at Nami, who was peeking out her small head to curiously examine Lorne, and huffed irritably.
Nami flinched under the glare, stuck out her tongue, and hid behind Bellemere again.
When Bellemere turned back around, the scrutiny in her eyes had not diminished much.
"An accident? Were you shipwrecked?"
"You could say that."
Lorne answered vaguely. He couldn't exactly say that he had been thrown over from another world by a mysterious force.
"I have nowhere to go temporarily, and I have no money left."
Lorne spread his hands, taking the opportunity to make his request,
"So, I wonder if you would allow me to stay here for a while? I can help with work; I just need a place to shelter from the wind and rain."
He needed a plausible identity and a place to settle down to get through this damned twenty-four-hour magic sealing period.
Bellemere's place was undoubtedly the best choice, allowing him to observe key figures of the future up close.
Bellemere fell silent. She assessed Lorne; although his clothing was neat, the fatigue in his demeanor was genuine.
As a former Marine, she had a sense of responsibility ingrained in her. It was difficult for her to ignore someone in distress, especially since his eyes were clear and he didn't look like he was lying.
Nojiko gently tugged on Bellemere's sleeve from behind.
Bellemere took a deep drag of her non-existent cigarette and finally made her decision.
"There is a small wooden hut behind the orange grove. It used to be for storing tools, but if you clean it up, it's habitable. You can stay there temporarily."
She paused, then added: "However, food and lodging aren't free. You'll have to help me take care of these orange trees."
"Naturally."
Lorne smiled and agreed, a great weight lifted from his mind.
"I'm not some idiotic sucker."
Bellemere seemed to see through Lorne's relief and added, "You'd better not try any tricks. Genzo is the village sheriff."
Lorne merely smiled at the warning and said no more. He reached out and fumbled around on himself for a moment, then pulled out an item.
It was a golden brooch carved with intricate patterns. He had bought it on a whim while browsing the market in Magnolia before he transmigrated. The craftsmanship was exquisite, and it shimmered dazzlingly in the sunlight.
"Consider this advance payment for the lodging and food!"
Lorne casually tossed the golden brooch over.
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