Natalie said, "Everyone's thinking like you, so air conditioners aren't that hard to find right now. But if this heat wave drags on for months, like the floods did, then it's going to be a real problem." In truth, the Great Heat would last longer than that; it would last for two years. Forget air conditioners—even an old box fan would soon become something people fought over. The most precious supplies during the Great Heat were drinking water, cooling devices, generators, and food. Clothes weren't a priority. It was so hot outside that plenty of people ran around half-naked anyway. Olivia thought about Natalie's advice and realized it made sense. The way the temperature had spiked wasn't normal. It reminded her of that sudden torrent of rain four months ago—just as sudden, just as extreme. It could easily last a long time. No matter how long it lasted, being prepared would only help. Never hurt. She said firmly, "I'll take a walk through the neighborhood and see if I can get an air conditioner installed." "Make sure you take a weapon with you," Natalie reminded her. After saying goodbye, Natalie climbed the stairs to find Harold. The stairwell was stifling. She had walked only a few steps before a thin layer of sweat broke out on her skin. But when Harold opened his door, a cool breeze spilled out. Clearly, he had his air conditioner running too. The smell of barbecue hit him immediately. His eyes went straight to the big platter of grilled meat in Natalie's hands. "Idol, this is perfect timing! My mom's been complaining all morning that my cooking tastes bland."Natalie smiled. "I felt like having barbecue today, so I figured I'd bring you some." Harold was touched—deeply touched. Who else could say their idol had become a friend who brought them food? Then his expression shifted to concern as he looked at her. "Idol, it's hot out there. You were grilling at home; you didn't get heatstroke, did you?" Natalie shook her head. "Nope, I'm fine." "Good." Harold let out a sigh of relief. "This heat came out of nowhere today. Lucky for us we stayed inside, or we'd be sick for sure." Natalie nodded. "Yeah, it's sudden. Just like that flood—it hit hard and fast." She said it deliberately, linking it back to the first disaster, hoping Harold would take it seriously. And it worked. Harold frowned and said, "You're right. Something this strange can't be normal. I don't think this doomsday chaos is over. From here on out, we'd better stay sharp and be ready for anything."Harold's eyes suddenly lit up as if he had remembered something. "Oh right, Idol! That cut-resistant fabric I traded to you—did you make clothes out of it yet? The material can also regulate temperature. You should wear it, it'll help keep you from the heat stroke." Natalie nodded, just about to reply, when another figure stepped out from behind him. "You must be Natalie, right?" Ghania said with a bright smile. "I've heard Harold go on and on about his idol and that you cured him with needle therapy. Olivia couldn't stop praising you either. Finally, I get to meet you! You're even prettier than I imagined!" Natalie gave a polite smile. "Hello, Mrs. Dunn." "Mom, you've met her before," Harold reminded. "Don't you remember? In the elevator." Ghania's smile vanished. She smacked him on the head with a sharp slap. "You little rascal! Always talking back and trying to make me look bad!" "Ouch! Mom!" Harold yelped, ducking at the same time. "Idol's right here, give me a break!" He quickly turned to Natalie, embarrassed. "Sorry, idol. My mom has a temper. When she snaps, she just snaps. Don't mind her." Natalie wasn't offended. Watching them bicker, she actually felt a wave of warmth. Her home was quiet and lonely. If not for Lucky, she might have forgotten what it was like to talk at all. If only Mom were still alive ... Her mother had been the complete opposite of Ghania—graceful, soft-spoken, and gentle. But no matter the personality, mothers always looked at their children with the same eyes. Whether they were praising or scolding, there was always love behind it.Ghania seemed to notice Natalie's sudden silence. She quickly put down her hand and called out loudly, "Natalie! Come inside and eat with us!" Natalie quickly pulled herself from her thoughts. "Thank you, Mrs. Dunn, but I've already eaten. You all go enjoy your meal." She handed the food to Harold and turned to leave. "Idol, wait!" Harold called after her. "Let me trade you something for it!" Natalie waved him off. "No need. "I didn't take anything from Olivia. I'm not about to take yours either. Go on, eat with your family. Tonight's meal is on me." Harold grinned. "Alright, but next time, I'm treating." Natalie laughed. "Olivia said the same thing. Looks like you'll have to wait your turn." She gave a small wave and headed downstairs. Ghania watched her go and sighed. "What a sweet girl."Harold raised a brow. "Mom, weren't you the one who said she could slice people like onions and might slice my leg off someday?"