The music was so loud in the lounge. Even it was jazz but it came out of the jukebox not men. She felt trapped between the two feelings: amazement and discomfort, when she saw everything ran automatically without robots and human labors, just the screens showing the menu and music playlist, everything would work as commanded. Even though Alexis stayed with friends, the strange loneliness gradually killed her.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡbiV6U7OOYu
They could order thing, selecting each menu by just touching the screen or speaking to it. Waiting for a few seconds, they could get what they wanted. At this point, Alexis realized that the government told them many lies. They kept the knowledge within themselves. People were already living in the future but had been thought they lived in the past. Honestly, this might be only a small part of the whole truth.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡCmF7UocNB5
They told none; they explain nothing. The captives were abandoned on a lone island that was full of luxurious facilities. Alexis kept asking herself, what the purpose of this place? She did not know if it was far from her home or it was located in the capital, under the ground, or above the sky. Not any single clue enlightened this skeptical mind. It was the third day of her living here. People called this place ‘dormitory’ but it looks like they resided in the privilege prison.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡsUouKTFoW7
“Hey, do you know John Lloyd?” She asked a girl who walked past by.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡzpsBwOGhaa
She answered immediately. “Of course, I love him! Oh my god, you’re his fan too?” Her eyes sparkled like diamonds but the asker’s face saddened.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡMjaYH4hDD0
“Ah, yes.” Alexis waved her hand and returned to her group.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡK3fyHjJ1dC
Wade was watching the drinking order. Searching for nice cocktails, his eyes almost dipped into the screen. Alexis and Oslo thought he might try everything.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡCbZEOkMXnM
“Slippery Nipple”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡE5Sn7F7YWK
“What a name!” Oslo laughed out loud while Alexis was giggling.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡTEkOLu5fm2
The blond winked, “If you don’t know Sex on the Beach, you won’t recognize this cocktail, nerd.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡwOqeUpgtjk
“I think it’s for girls,” Alexis said.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡEgDLqKC8W6
“No! Girls prefer it doesn’t mean it belongs to them,” Wade made the point and tasted the drink, “Umm, sweet,” and offered Alexis to try. She took a sip and agreed, “Yep, very sweet.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡto4nijNDGF
“Try one, Oslo. See how Tessa drinks like a man. Get one and go talk to her,” Wade suggested and gave a knowing smile to the girl.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡjiPTtprWFG
“Tessa? Why does it relate to her?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡlAeVghnPhR
“Don’t play dumb. We know what you’re thinking when you first saw her. She’s damn beautiful and your jaw dropped.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1ls62jW40t
Oslo narrowed his eyes to the girlfriend.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡi9jqzrI1a5
Alexis gave him a shrug. “Yeah, it’s very obvious. Sorry to say the truth,” replied to him.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡo6opozlfr1
“Well, yeah, she’s beautiful. I’m just a man and nothing special. She likes a guy like you, a stupid macho boy.” copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡQRT07kiJA9
Wade arched his eyebrow, “Hey, I’m not stupid. I was on the list. Hello? Don’t you remember?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡvHZTjgOfPp
“That’s why I’m always curious.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡyR4J9RaV9k
“He’s got straight A’s, Oslo,” Alexis told him. “And was the captain of the soccer team. I know it’s hard to believe that but he was not that stupid macho guy.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡHD57yKkals
“Oh yes, I always forget how cool you guys are. Get excellent grade, be a sportsman, and possess the beauty, (“I know it’s sarcasm but thanks anyway.” Alexis gave him a broad smile.) Wade. Don’t blame me. Please blame your up-and-down temper. It makes you look stupid.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ4SyWPEqiR
The girl group sitting next to them giggled louder. Apparently, they eardropped the conservation and their eyes mainly focused on Wade Miller. Clearly enough, they had a crush on him. Even in this lotus-eater island, he was still popular among girls.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ08MHw7VWy6
The boy gave them a short smile and countered Oslo. “Well, don’t blame my temper. I’m the one who has been sent because of possessing the cocaine less than 100 g. Can I call myself the most unfortunate man of the world?” He returned to the menu screen. “Angel’s kiss.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡgEgYytf2wR
He passed the drink to Oslo. “For you, comrade. Be brave and take a move! We’ll help you, right Alex?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡP5BS6TMAEd
“Yeah!”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡN3GVF7HCBI
“Oh, please Alexis. Don’t spoil him!”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡnapTfgA68d
“I don’t! Just be a good friend.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡcDWbKHVGaO
“Please return to your obsession about this place and leave me alone.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡluyJ9f0V3A
“What is she obsessing?” Wade asked immediately. “Why don’t you talk to me like you talk to him?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡZoAKoqrQCu
She rolled her eyes. Oslo should not have mentioned it. “Because you always hate my idea.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡCqdgn2B7h6
“Let me hear so I can tell whether I hate it or not.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡDCrLyA7Ga9
“No, I won’t”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4D7CZzeoJP
“She thought we’re in the cattle farm in Eastland.” Oslo jerked his brow which disturbed her. “He’ll keep asking you until you spread it out. Just tell him.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9s7lpPvSOh
Wade snapped his finger. “You know me. So what about this cattle farm?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9D2qBwm3uo
Alexis kicked the counter bar. “You start it so you talk,” she stole Oslo’s drink and consumed half of it.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ33tL4zgdDn
The red head nodded. “Okay…it’s a farm in Eastland. They feed the cattle the best food, serve them beer, massage them, and turn on the music to release their stress before cruelly slaughtering them so Alex thought we’re the same, the cattle.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡkX7SHEOzQn
Wade bit his lips. As she had expected, he did not like her idea. Alexis gave a black look to her redhead friend. “Sorry.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡKMvmG0RPZp
But it was true. What she was thinking sounded rational. She could see on their faces that they were wondering too. They should become aware of it. Why the authority caged all the captives in this kind of illusional paradise. They almost had everything except the open space to see the world outside. They told them nothing, especially what they were going to do to them. And the fact that John Lloyd was not here. So where was he? Where were the others? Hundreds of questions popped up but no answer.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡg6xqOMVGc3
“What’s the matter with that?” Wade opposed her thought.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9SD5twPspo
“I know you gonna say this.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡErwCmTjZ0z
“Yes, it’s because we can do nothing. If they’re really treating us like cattle, what you’re gonna do? Just live to the fullest while you can. If tomorrow they kill me, I tell you I won’t regret.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡOiu4MxHiIM
Oslo sat quietly looking at the cocktail and Wade stared at nothing in particular. I’m the only one thinking the worst of the authority. copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡudi6vBdau3
“See? I shouldn’t have said it. Next time, I won’t talk to you. You expose everything.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡbbRIHboiOf
Oslo pushed the drink away. “Sorry. It’s because you two teased me about Tessa. I just want to stop you two. But honestly, Alex, I agree with Wade. I know how you feel. But we really can do nothing. Enjoy our life as we can. At least, it’s not the prison I imagined it to be, not even close. Perhaps, it’s not that bad like what you’re thinking.” He turned to Wade. “And I prefer beer.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡQkqJLonNsE
“Boring…Oslo if you want to get a girl, you must change everything. Come on Alex! Forget about that useless thought. Help this nerd lose his virginity!”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡM5hG4DQzkU
“Shut up! Stop messing with me.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡJI3blemkIk
“Hey, guys!” Tessa greeted them. She was standing attractively with a hand on her waist, wearing a black crop and khaki cargo pants.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡbI365BgWrz
“It’s time, Oslo!” Wade cheered his friend up when the Thomas joined in. Tessa, aged nineteen, was their first friend here. She acted like the host, taking them touring around the dormitory and guiding the directions. She and her siblings stayed here for approximately three weeks and might be the first groups of the residents. She told them that there were a few people stayed before them and the newcomers came every day.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡT3Z8bPdtAr
“Alexis, I heard you still asking for John Lloyd at the cinema. If we don’t see him, no one sees too.” The girl said and observed Alexis’s jacket, “this one is nice too.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡx6e7Ep1vQj
Behind Tessa were Minnie and Noel. Minnie was the youngest among the Thomas, aged seventeen, a year younger than Alexis’s group. Unlike Tessa, Minnie was quiet and loved to hide her tiny body behind her brother. She rarely voiced her opinion but once she spread it, everyone would turn silent because they did not understand what she said or sometimes it was too awkward; in consequence, Alexis and her friends had a few chances to talk to her. For the big brother, Noel was the oldest and might be the oldest among the captives. He used to be a soldier, now aged twenty-eight. Noel owned the tall and sturdy body which made Wade look like a little boy. The Thomas siblings shared the same chestnut skin and the dark hair. Minnie and Noel had the same ocean eyes while Tessa owned a pair of light gray. She had a pair of very lovely eyes.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡZfPFQQDz9n
“We’re going to the club. Do you guys want to come with us?” She talked to them but her eyes solely gave all interest to the boy with the blond hair.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡZCPzr70FPl
“Oh yes,” Wade quickly accepted when Oslo, instead of talking to his crush, intensively stared at his hand as if it was the most interesting he could not take his eyes off. “Oslo just talked about going there.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡVcyDnBheAn
The mentioned person abruptly shot his glanced towards the bossy friend but Alexis locked his head and nodded in agreement.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡD9ZpM5FMgg
Tessa might suspect their strange reaction but smiled anyway. “Okay, shall we?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡeytgi3f6vY
Wade pushed Oslo out of the chair. The redhead groaned when his friends forced him to take more advance.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡaQQb1StFce
To help Oslo got the girl; Wade let him walked with Tessa while he tried talking to Minnie. Alexis coped with Noel. Their plan totally went on without smoothness so the brother could notice.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡdtIKTsKkWQ
“He’s a very good person,” Alexis hurriedly said that when his ocean eyes fixed at Oslo. “Really, very good and kind.” copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4VbcTb5DY3
“I see what you’re playing but Tessa is not someone you can play cupid with. And that boy’s totally not her type. You know? He’s too shy and too weak. I didn’t mean to offend your friend but he looked like her little brother,” he jerked his head to let her see the real situation.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡwASh4nMSqK
The girl was speechless because it was true. Oslo did not look comfortable at all and this gesture would ruin the chance to get a girl, especially the girl with high confidence like Tessa. The girl chose the topic and he said only, “Yeah. That’s right. Aha.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡOpuslbqmUN
0% possibility of success. copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ44CUrsS1D5
“Why you guys end up here?” She asked the older man. They entered the club, just thirty seconds walk from the previous location. copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡJB8RNzWb39
“Oh, it’s a long story.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡtYp6DWTGA7
“We love to hear.” Wade interrupted them. It was hopeless to talk to Minnie because the girl was humming a song instead of listening to Wade’s story. Alexis instantly looked at other thing to avoid laughing.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡrgHjJa39Z3
The music was louder than in the lounge and people were crazy in dancing. Personally, Alexis did not like the club better than the lounge. She was not a big fan of Jazz music but pure electronic dance was not her thing. Tessa invited them to dance but only Oslo (whom they coerced him through the eyes to go with her) joined the girl. Alexis and Wade sat with Noel and Minnie, eager to listen to the Thomas’ story.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡArQ8udFQ7y
“You two don’t like dancing? Tess is so crazy about it. We don’t have anything like this in our hometown.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡRAmlMVKPgu
“In the Waste?” Alexis asked.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2LAsSTO27Y
“Yeah, the city is like its name, wasted town, wasted people, a city of the waste.” He drank half of the beer in the bottle. “Okay, let’s hear my story.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡbsT4qUN1gi
“We’re waiting for this,” Wade clapped his laps. copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡTIZvdV4dHp
“Well, I worked since I was little as a low-wedged labor. Born stronger and larger than the others, that’s me. When the army announced the job recruitment, I applied at once, passed the basic training, and was transferred to the commando unit. I’ve done a very good performance so my chief favored me. An envious colleague accused me of being the Suspect. I don’t really know who did it but…the police said a colleague reported this issue. I had no chance to prove my innocence. People in The Waste are unfortunate. Even the cops are bad cops. As they received the false accusation, they arrested me without investigation or interrogation. (“It’s good you don’t have to enter the interrogation”, Alexis interrupted while Wade nodded in agreement. “They would torture you. You’ll be convicted anyway.”) Well, so it means there’s no justice anywhere? You know? My chief was really upset because he aimed at sending me to the borderland with the new battalion unit but he had no power to interfere the legal process. My mother asked for justice, at least for the investigation. She is the real fighter and they mocked her and our family. At that time, Tessa made the unbelievable things.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡk913C9L9Ux
“Is she the Risk?” Wade asked.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡRhRKHS4tnT
At this point, Alexis and Wade opened all their ears wide. Alexis had the experience with the Risk but it was far from impressive and she saw none of Sonya’s power except the outcome. The kids knew all the captives meaning they lived the Risks and the Suspects but three days in this place, none of the Risks presented themselves.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡgtd0TscejR
Noel took a quick glance to Tessa who was dancing with the other boys and Oslo was left alone. Alexis felt that she directly told them through her body language, “Stopping pairing him with me.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7W9GAX3l5g
Noel continued, “She did not know about her ability. Tessa was upset and furious of the way the authority treated the citizens and the citizen is our mother. She shouted to them in anger, aimed at cursing them but it was the sound, very strange sound emitted out of her mouth. I’m not sure what really happened but that sound attacked the cops. And everything turned bad, she could not control herself. She was standing puzzled. And all of us were charged.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡSTfAyKORV5
“I’m sorry to hear that,” Alexis told him. “But why they did arrest all of you? Okay, you were arrested but why Minnie was charged too?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1r5ZNM3QOO
Noel smiled in a bitter way. “They said brothers and sisters tended to share the superhuman ability. Therefore, I and Minnie were judged as the Suspects after that.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0KZR0T6GRR
Wade and Alexis exchanged their looks. It was the worst case for Oslo who had four brothers and sisters. They were not sure if they were fortunate or not but the legal process in San Bosa was surely better than in the Waste. But ‘better’ did not mean justified.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡFWJIS0fkBJ
All of them glanced at the boy with the red hair who stood foolishly when Tessa enjoyed with the others. Alexis wondered if it was the right choice for them to force him chasing the girl. She did not like to see her friend being dumbed.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡtqsHznqMUd
“I’ll call him to sit with us,” she told Wade.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡGV7QtO2cVh
“Just wait for a little bit more.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ7qtfFFUBI
“It won’t work,” Minnie finally said something. They hardly heard her speaking. The girl pointed to Tessa and Oslo. “Tess doesn’t like him. She likes someone like you,” she pointed to Wade. “And that boy,” her finger moved to the boy who was sitting alone at the corner of the club. Only the tower of glasses was his companion. He had not talked to no one but always attracted ladies’ attention.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡt073CUlZht
The moment Alexis flashed her eyes at him and he quickly noticed it, she felt a little bit strange. He was always quick to notice the stare. That boy, with the light silver hair and deep blue eyes, sat under colorful lights like a celestial being. Sometimes his expression sent back the look of her reaction. It was odd or embarrassing when he could catch her sight every time she took his eyes on him. She recognized him since the first day of their staying here. She already knew this boy.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡveIuJBw2iO
“That boy,” Noel murmured. “He doesn’t talk. We tried to befriend with him but he preferred to be alone. Very strange boy, we don’t even know his name.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡskLjkrfYZw
“Michael,” Alexis answered him.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡWxklvYwGxc
“You know him?” Wade asked, wary. copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ17ocreQC4x
“Yes, we met a long time ago. I think he’s very shy…or doesn’t like people.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡSvNsshwzc1
“When?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡC4ysy1ZUi3
“I met him during the audition.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡsmahvZ4Ikj
“Which audition?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡk7iyMGKNOY
Alexis tried to be patient. “Lexy jeans. He came with a man but it seemed like he did not want to come or was forced to. When he knew it was the audition for TV commercial, he shouted and tried to leave. But he’s very outstanding. Every girl eyed on him. I remembered once John saw him, he said that Michael should be the presenter and he should be the extra.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡBr30weHLjP
“That’s all?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1CHTXIzwPC
She frowned to his bossiness.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡPF0TwlD6q3
“He stared at Alexis,” Minnie suggested.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡLRGkSV86H1
“Yes, because we remember each other but he did not like to talk to me too. I greeted him this morning; saw him in the cafeteria alone like this. Instead of saying something, yes or no, he answered me by walking away.” Alexis sniggered.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡU2Xy3z9ebx
Now the boy collected his sight to himself.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2CcEQBqiRW
“Yeah, he loves walking away when someone talks to him,” Noel agreed. “Same experience.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡeKsgkU65D5
“Nah, just a boy and a weird one.” Wade acted like he was not interested but could not hide his envy through the tone of his voice.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡxnQ9BWq0GP
“He’s hot…hotter than you,” Minnie said. “He’s one of Tessa favorites. You, that boy, and...”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡELhL3cXVnd
“Minnie.” Noel shook his head. copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡVOBf9UwlL9
The younger girl was not exaggerated when she compared him with Wade. Michael was a boy who all girls automatically forgot the existence of John Lloyd when they saw him. She remembered that moment well, which was the reason why John had made the joke about the replacement. The boy was an angel in disguise. Alexis admitted that she was one of those girls.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡbMrnf3HPKe
“So you’re a model?” Minnie asked, curious. Alexis did not know if she had to feel like gaining victory when she could attract this girl’s interest.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡTgLkQhrQws
“Not really, an amateur actually,” Alexis replied. Minnie moved forward to Alexis. Her eyes turned sparkling. “So he’s a model too? Is he your type? I see he observes you since we came here.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡB2VTYUZ27B
“No, he didn’t I can guarantee that.” Alexis bit her lips. “I already said because we have met before.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡbs94zI8xWJ
“But he had never eyed on Tessa longer than five seconds. You got ten.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡy9T3L50VQj
Noel laughed. “You counted it?” The way he looked at his youngest sister was like the way Alexis’s father looked at her when she was seven.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡsorr7PE1hh
Minnie nodded like a little child.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡvfyCPekVpZ
“He’s not Alexis’s type,” Wade made his own summary.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡPNCaIcsAFL
“How do you know? He’s super cute.” Alexis quickly responded but it was the mistake because Wade did not like that compliment.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡXJ3k6L1pUb
“Well, compared to your ex, he was blond, tall, handsome and athletic, nice and gentle.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡtR7Nc0rpjS
“Wade…Don’t start it, please. I’m not Belinda.” She almost forgot what the pain from backstabbing was like. Didn’t the yearning for family and friends torment her heart enough? Why did Wade still dig it up?copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9qXlFFUcIO
“I’m sorry. I just answer Minnie.” He gave a shrug.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8hRhM2OHyV
“No, you don’t intend to answer her. You intend to tease me.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡiFaaq7SRZt
“You mean yourself? Are you her type? But you’re not gentle,” Minnie still urged for more details without worrying about the use of her words. However, Alexis did not think Wade would care anymore. And he deserved the true comment about himself.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7JMmvTEAkh
“She’s right. You’re mean.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡYkNDCu3jlG
“Kids...,” Noel interrupted. “And Minnie, don’t ask personal stuffs.” So Minnie abandoned her interest in Alexis and drew backed to her chair watching people in the club with her daydreaming eyes.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡwSGD6MXOZH
“I’m sorry,” Wade whispered.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡf4JVJiCh7x
“You’re not sorry. You’re always like this,” Alexis complained. “Since we came here, you act like…”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ6C2GEajw6
“I just want to know if you forget him.” Wade did not yield. “If you have no feeling, why are you upset with me?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡla2O0BYTZm
“When did I tell you I have no more feeling for him?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡl3jdGj3CvB
Noel and Minnie sat quietly when their conservation gradually turned into a small quarrel. Alexis knew they were listening. “You know Wade. Find Belinda, if you want to practice your verbal attack skill. And if you want to know, yes, I still love Davy. Okay? Satisfied now?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡX1PdHxFgbp
Wade stood up and went to Tessa right away. He commanded Oslo to return to the seat and danced with the girl without caring of Oslo’s feeling. Tessa gladly welcomed him.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡAHyZbqS0AK
Oslo returned to sit next to Alexis with a breath of relief. He asked, “What’s up to him? Do you guys argue again?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡC2I5OaseXL
Without Belinda Carter, Wade still sought for a counter partner to practice his argument. He usually stimulated her feeling of longing for the past life. Alexis tried her best to continue the life in accordance with his philosophy but it was too difficult than she had thought when he continued this kind of behavior.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡTbP1zCJzas
It’s hard to be myself, the old me, when I lose everything. What do you think I suppose to do, Wade? Run to you for comfort?copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0xV5ZZatqn
“So you two did fight again,” Oslo concluded when she did not give him the answer.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡD8GSFWYfIi
“You know him. He likes to jab on my old wound.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3aeFnVB8bC
“He’s a spoiled child,” Oslo agreed. “Instead of acting like a love guru, he should learn to be polite and modest first and then he can get into you.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡmuLYi7vxM3
Then Noel just said, “The spoils of young love.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡm92ItJ8NCr
Alexis heard and understood what he meant ‘young love’. “Old man, young love doesn’t mean to be immature but what between me and Wade is not love.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7BmV7eluqx
He raised both of his hands. “Nope, I don’t want to argue with you. Have to do the brother’s job.” Noel stood up and moved towards Wade and Tessa who began to get closer and closer.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡHLdO7XXkv6
Oslo sighed. “He’s really a boy. He’s trying to call your attention.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡCRsayoWk1j
“How do you feel, Oslo?” Alexis jerked her head to their friend and the girl with the dark hair.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡv4F7Ic7a7a
“Honestly, I don’t feel anything. No jealousy, no bad feeling towards Wade, I just met Tessa. She’s beautiful truly. But to be honest, I miss Christina even now. This is why I understand you, Alex. So stop helping him, okay?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8LYCxVtNpf
“Okay,” she surrendered with a shameful face.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡFDmIFWG3NC
The situation made them closer. As Belinda seek new peers and they pretended not to recognize each other, the trio became close friends within a short time. What made Alexis feel uncomfortable was the way Wade regarded himself as her boyfriend-to-be. He was a very good friend except when he acted like this. Sometimes he mentioned about Davy and June just to see her reaction. It was true that the arrest and the departure from home built the severest pain to her. It was more painful than any other thing. Even the story that Davy and June had broken her heart could not compare with this pain. But the scar is the scar. It might not hurt like a fresh wound, still, when you see it, you remember how the pain had done to you.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6JbBgvfPBB
Noel returned to the seat with angry Tessa. “I’m not a little girl!”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3pIS01bhiB
“But you’re not immature. Don’t flirt around. I mean stop flirting, stop playing games.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡRvlrI9UeI5
“You’re not my dad! I can do what I want!”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡyfXj3HJaRX
“I’ll go get some drinks,” Alexis whispered to Oslo, hurriedly sneaking out to escape the scene.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡMlLArNkVKJ
“Wait!” Oslo followed. “What is this day? I feel the heated argument everywhere.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡfBDwkIb2jK
They ordered couple glasses of light beer and decided to sit behind the fountain of wine. Without Wade, sharing her mind with Oslo was easier. He was a good listener who could listen to anyone’s view. On the contrary, Oslo would expose her thought if Alexis tried to tease him.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡQhc8jTN0B7
“That’s Belinda.” Oslo pointed.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6ncTQJI1U5
Alexis followed his guide. The former friend was chatting with a new group of people. Belinda could manage herself to go with the mainstream like Wade did naturally; the only similarity they shared. Belinda was laughing and looked happy with her new friends. copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0J5y7FyFAc
“You still talk to Carter. I see,” Alexis said. “You’re not angry with her?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡEy5Tuj2Stt
Oslo shook his head. “I was but we’re in the same boat now. And I’m kind of having sympathy. You two are very cold to her.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡCvJZX6w1i6
Alexis was shocking. “Cold? She intended to defame me.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9rPICct6d7
“I know. At least, you ignore her. I didn’t offend you.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡlGsa7YT57c
She rolled her eyes. “I know you have a very kind heart, Oslo. I may not complain Carter or blame her but I can’t help stay away from her. I don’t know what she’s thinking and she has never said sorry to us. It’s unbelievable to see you still talk to her. Totally respect.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡnnT6eW2Ire
“You've overrated me. I just have sympathy.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡFhOoSDECM3
“She has new friends and she looks very happy without us. She doesn’t need your sympathy. I know you have good intention but I am afraid she’ll betray you or use you someday. Stay away with this kind of people. This is what I want to tell you.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡMMRhlbw5Xo
Oslo nodded but she knew he was too kind to accept her warning. copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡEOPYH7nR7j
A small clatter sound of an object fell near their position. Alexis turned to see it. The object had the shape of a rectangle metal, no, not metal. The color on its surface was golden-white and small oval diamonds decorated its elegant body. She picked it up. It was a lighter.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡzDCXBUtcOl
“Wow,” Oslo gasped when Alexis picked it up.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡSdwLzYSBfi
“Who is the owner? I think it’s very expensive.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡJEwLNEkGGs
“Is it a lighter?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ75BNzGGDZq
“Yes.” Alexis opened it.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡFMrzrGmjS8
“Sorry, it’s mine.” A soft-spoken voice was above her head. Alexis and Oslo looked up and they saw a very good-looking young man.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡDV1EjnBiYR
“It’s so beautiful,” she said and gave it back to him. He took it back but the way his fingers lightly touched her hand transmitted an eccentric feeling.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡJteJ60LAYd
“Is that…man?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡtSBifqm0ou
“You remember me?” he asked Oslo.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡPh8MJEao2P
Both nodded. copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡZphZs9CqTf
Obviously, he was older than them. This man was the same person who smiled at her at the cafeteria on the first day. And Wade started acting like her boyfriend-to-be since then.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡYynac2cs9b
“Why do you guys sit here?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡyyANpBeIQ6
“Ah…we’re chatting,” Oslo replied.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡnxsLcmOdlF
“Sit here?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡzyt5bBp1rL
“It’s quieter.” Alexis and Oslo stood up so their neck would not get pain. He was a few inches taller than her. The one that might come from a rich family as she judged from his fine outfits, it looked like he walked out from the men’s fashion magazine with the perfect short hair and beardless face.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡMUShDl3JE0
“B.R. Is that the lighter’s brand name?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡegaubpZ85N
“No, it’s my name.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡqZsPJUK8JV
His amber eyes switched from Alexis to Oslo and vice versa. “Where is the blond hair?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡHDvNhEfPH1
He even remembered Wade.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡsYGsid04f8
“He’s dancing.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4DZtng5yYO
“Oh...” He looked at Wade who was dancing with the other girl because Tessa was sitting with her chin on her knee on the sofa next to her brother.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡEAqXtuZk9F
“And you don’t dance?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡTOrb3uIM3r
Alexis shook her head. “No, I don’t”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡDAG9Pc2GDq
“You don’t like dancing?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1WjWJzIX2I
“I do but not this time.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡYQ6X7HZTpv
“Okay, you guys, spend your time,” Oslo lowered his head with a knowing smile on his face.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ69JRg0eTav
“Hey,” she called him when he left her alone. “Damn.” As he turned to the young man, he was staring. Without a smile, his eyes conveyed the meaning so well. copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡKEm4FC51mF
“How long have you been here?” she asked.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7su3R5oRwF
“Good question. About three weeks.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡv2MRZTGZsZ
Like the Thomas. “Have you known John Lloyd?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡFSjZYMW8rb
“Who?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5DnTyMFL2M
“You don’t know him?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡd17uiionp0
“No,” he firmly insisted. “Who is he?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0Cz9io4RFu
“Nothing.” Alexis was disappointed. Tessa was right, no one saw him here. copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡJnl3HgNZWn
“If you don’t dance, how about join me a drink?” copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡYTSW8OTJEi
There was something in his smile, like an invisible twinkle light flashing to her eyes. He had the charisma, the dangerous one. Alexis almost forgot herself when those amber eyes locked her gaze. Anyway, this man had no will to hide the trap he built. The fire in his eyes did either lure or seduce the girl; on the contrary, it sat still, waiting for her to try how hot it was. And if Alexis was a challenging firefly… copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡfAzNrrDrmu
“Ah, the music’s too loud,” he said and filled his glass with the wine in the fountain. “Well, if you don’t mind. I’m Benjamin. Just call me Ben, and you?” he introduced himself and offered his hand.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡrkFlZ7pI6E
“Alexis.” She shook his hand. Again, the way he touched her hands was like he offered an invitation card with a ribbon.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡOX71tO88uL
“Nice to meet you, Alexis.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9zOrRNXm2W
Why did just the smile could be interpreted as flirting? Alexis pondered. He and the boy with the silver hair made her deceive in this untrue paradise. If Davy was not sitting in her heart, Alexis might try stepping onto the trap in front of her. But why Davy is still in my heart. He should go away. This man is so cute. Why I have to care someone who cheated on me? Oh, being nonsense, I can’t help. I’m just a girl. And girl has so much thought fusing in her mind. copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡXzu0S8HKQE
Eventually, Alexis regained her composure. Hot guy meant the fatal attraction. Davy taught her well. “I’m sorry. Have to go back to the group.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡP5PPE2OfNo
“Really? Your friends seem to enjoy with themselves well enough.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡIF585RKzsp
Alexis looked at Wade whose face turned red and he danced like no one watching. Tessa and Noel seemed like they had a drinking competition. Minnie was Minnie. And Oslo waved his hand to her and Ben like cheering.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡaT5j3DMhX4
“Right?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡghziGgXfJL
Oslo, wait for my turn. copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡOwRBC7gf5m
“Well…” She did not know how to start or end it. He was handsome, super handsome, so why didn’t she take a chance. Just talking might not be bad and she was single. It was time to push Davy away.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡjO43dZZbkN
“I don’t dance but if you want to talk, I love to. Well, where did you come from?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡT6gljW3Mga
“The capital.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡxTFQVrmrfB
That’s why he wore those brands. “And you, Alexis?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡQtkUdSFJGo
“Alex, if you prefer a shorter name. I come from San Bosa in Idrina State.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡDMq9ZzMaaX
Ben chuckled.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡxJg6oNtUph
“What’s funny?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡCSqWpCnLku
Again, if he could stop smiling, Alexis would be thankful. The way he gazed made her cheeks hot enough. Those piercing eyes were very penetrating and she felt like he saw everything in her mind.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡlHdyBNacGD
“My best friend names Alex too.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4SzRbroIMq
“Oh, I see. Is he a man?” Stupid, why I suddenly become stupid?copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡTSuPHldDnj
“Of course, he’s a man. Not many girls are named Alex.” His voice sounded amused. As his eyes moved to her chin and neck, Alexis averted her side from the gaze.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡppjIhf8cwC
“Sorry. I see you got injured.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9aGsi9D5sa
“It’s just bruises and scar…How do you end up here?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2q3ahqAfTu
“If you don’t mind, I know how to erase those scars.” He did not answer her question but focused on her bruises. “In the infirmary, the medicines there can help you remove them. If you doubt my suggestion, please look around and you’ll understand. The secret knowledge of the government doesn’t mean only the technology.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡHO3PErstTX
“Really? Like remove all of it.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡc05Jr2JCaW
He nodded. “All of it. You want to go check it?” He offered a hand with a smile that she could not deny it. copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡDh5JZlAMy0
“Alexis!”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡxlAhguFBRL
It was Tessa who called her from her seat. Wade was with her, narrowing his eyes at Ben. Alexis needed him to stop this kind of habits.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡfkIiSOZmGU
Ben did not turn to see them but glance a little. After that, he courteously lowered his head saying, “Your friend calls you now. Don’t forget to take medicine there. Girls don’t like scars, is that right?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡR4Do3YBsfN
“Thank you, Ben, really. You’re going?” copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡs15bxMCkcC
His corner lips lifted up. “Next time, hope you have time for me. See you around.”158Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeo9NafW1rI
copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡkqJEfxNJMT
With just one blink, he was gone. Alexis did not understand why he was so hurry to go after Tessa called her.copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡW97eGuaUFv
“What are you talking with him?” Tessa walked towards and roped her hands on Alex’s arms. It reminds the girl of Elodie. “He may make you think he’s a prince but the real him is a wolf. Just so you know. I know him before you.”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡaEg1QEi5Aw
“Oh, he reveals his true identity already…but a very kind and charming wolf, don’t you think?”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7PC4QbaDks
“Oh please. Not all red riding hoods were rescued. They were devoured alive, young lady! Has no one ever warned you not to play with fire? ”copyright protection154ＰＥＮＡＮＡB1Icv8Dbdh
Why I feel like I return to the school? Alexis now understood why people called this place, “dormitory”158Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ90ZuD3Z4YA
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