"Wait." Alex quickly stopped Hughes. He looked at the pile of scrap metal that had been sitting quietly in the corner of the carriage all afternoon: "Take me to the Slum District instead. I need to return this to Stella."
And while he was at it, he would let Stella know he was safe; she must be very frightened.
The shooting had occurred right near the Slum District. As an elderly woman with only her granddaughter to rely on, Stella would certainly be worried and panicked.
Hughes glanced at Alex, his gaze lingering on Alex's determined face, understanding his intent. Although the Slum District was currently unsafe and the atmosphere was tense, Hughes did not stop Alex, nor did he offer advice.
The strength Alex displayed at the bakery last time when confronting the thief had left a deep impression on Hughes. Combined with the composure Alex showed today, Hughes wasn't worried about Alex facing danger from petty thugs.
