December walked the hallways of the academy, enjoying her three hour free period. It surprises her friends sometimes, that for someone who bolted at the first chance of free period, she did manage her academic well.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡGe6FkFABvR 維尼
Well enough to still be enrolling in this academy, she thought with a wince. But well enough.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡKMUpGlFi1w 維尼
She did use the time to study, but not today.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡA6gvkJ9YJM 維尼
There was something in the air, and she noted the different feel of atmosphere and setting. It seemed as though the walls had brightened with posters of events and decorations hung here and there. The lockers looked like it had been newly polished, and everyone seemed excited for something. It was no surprise they would be as Black Bridge Academy's hosting their annual prom night for their seniors.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡvmsz2JkFwX 維尼
My senior year prom, she thought in glee.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡc7yA7WP0iq 維尼
December's excitement for all the balls and parties her school had thrown could not rival this year's event. While she had attended past parties, those were with her friends. This year, however, was special because she was about to graduate from the academy, it was her senior year, and she had finally gained a really smart and gorgeous boyfriend – her crush! – so it made sense that she would want to have one of the best – if not the best – times of her life.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡkX0Ol8l8hd 維尼
The school announced the arrival of their prom a week ago and everyone, more so her fellow seniors had been buzzing with excitement since then. She couldn't blame them – these things are usually the highlight of their high school moments and some have been hunting for dresses since the previous year. Despite having three more months to prepare, the fact that the announcements have been made was enough to send them into a tizzy.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9940XYeyNq 維尼
December hadn't anticipated in looking forward towards prom. She had thought she would be going stag with her friends, as she always did, but the realisation that this was her last year in high school – it changed her view on everything.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡbuYiedXEAo 維尼
She just wanted to make the best memories in her life during her senior year with the people she loved and cared about.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0diKtj6uEN 維尼
She remembered their reactions, which had been unexpected at first. Being the last person to usually initiate this, December surprised her friends when she asked if they could go on a shopping spree for dresses. It really was no wonder now why they reacted like that, she thought with a chuckle.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡoqvlbHAtOX 維尼
The school was a buzz with news and preparations for prom, and after mulling it over for days, December decided to ask her friends for help. December walked into her dorm, the idea of asking her friends to go shopping made her feel sheepish. But she ploughed on anyway and entered her room, hoping to ask Raven first.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡItEqbfSwv4 維尼
"Hey, Rave – oh, you're all here." She came to a stop, surprised at seeing all of her friends in the room.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡgDDlp6qbaW 維尼
Brooke was lying on her stomach on the bed, diligently perusing her magazines, and Serena was braiding Raven's hair into twin plaits – the latter looking as though she might fall asleep any time soon. Her eyes were almost droopy.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡBZMHxtSHr8 維尼
December couldn't help but grin. She knew what it felt like; there was something soothing and lulling about having your hair being played or braided that made you want to fall asleep.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡL5SuePKGaB 維尼
As soon as she entered, their attention were upon her, including Raven, whose eyes snapped into focus.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡsNyc2FxWBc 維尼
She gave a sleepy grin. "Hey, D."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡWaveeM6bjw 維尼
Serena chuckled when Brooke said, amused, "Well yes, where did you think we'd be on this afternoon?"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡkp3e0oDZ2d 維尼
December closed the door and went for her swivel chair. She shrugged then grinned, saying, "I don't know, tutoring or helping out at the library… tormenting juniors in drama club."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5rNJVv2wHk 維尼
Brooke pursed her lips and pointed a finger at her. "It's not called torment if I want them to get their acts together. Literally."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡs34o83kpTy 維尼
They have all seen how Brooke coached her juniors, and while she could be the sunny Southern Belle of the group, she took her interests pretty seriously, which means being a little worse than a drilling sergeant. Brooke was a good tutor who provided fruitful results, but they didn't particularly agree with the way she chose her methods. Because of this, she had a terrifying reputation amongst them and that her junior group now consists of only two students – out of the usual eight.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8iq0l66RTD 維尼
"Intentions and actions, sometimes they don't work well unless you make them clear." December said pointedly.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡiBdPHdhC8c 維尼
"Well, aren't you Miss Philosophy." Brooke rolled her eyes before raising her brows. "I'm not that bad."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡdhbeYroQcw 維尼
Serena gave her a look of pity. "Brooke, one of them changed schools because they couldn't take your approach to reciting scripts."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡAnCRGz24qS 維尼
"You mean, stuffing them in a room colder than Alaska because according to you, it will make them remember the script better? That doesn't make sense at all." Raven added with a disapproving look.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6KnoTooEfj 維尼
"I was in the room too! It wasn't that cold…" She grumbled. When they didn't say anything, Brooke looked at them all, their expressions saying that they didn't buy that reasoning. It seemed like one of their intervention sessions, and she open her mouth to refute that but nothing came out. Finally, "Fine. I'm not completely heartless. I am trying to be better." She looked at them all begrudgingly.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡR4upHn0iH7 維尼
December smiled, "Just thought to remind you."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡkdCjmWHoB3 維尼
Shaking her head, Brooke looked at her in disbelief, before a smirk grew her lips. "Anyway, back to you. I completely underestimated Zach's influence really, if he has you quoting something remotely philosophical."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡN7gbE2hGBQ 維尼
"Oh yes. You've always thought them pretentious." Raven nodded and giggled to herself, playing with the hem of her hoodie.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡRgj1XAvt8p 維尼
"But not Zach, of course." Serena quietly said, her lips curve upwards.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡPnWqgnmKrb 維尼
"Of course." Chimed both Brooke and Raven.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡkpsWhcRZqz 維尼
When December could only look at them in stupefaction, words unable to form in her throat, Brooke looked on smugly. "An eye for an eye, sugar. You tried to turn the tables on me and now I've got you back."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3CyFfy4Rfb 維尼
She winked at a flushed December and both Serena and Raven burst into laughter.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡqB3PXWiUoa 維尼
December couldn't resist their infectious laughter, and she felt her lips tugged into a smile. "Very smart." She nodded at Brooke in acknowledgement.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡhO0Td8OOKF 維尼
"So," Raven said after a moment, rubbing her plait softly. "Did you want to tell us something? You looked eager coming in here."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7m2vT2TcLq 維尼
"Is it about Zach?" Brooke raised her brow. "Did he declare his undying love for you and you're gonna tell us you're eloping? Because as your friend, I'm advising against it. My cousin Amanda eloped with her beau, Brady, and two months later, they divorced. She's pregnant."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡOpKRegt2v8 維尼
Everyone looked at her, speechless. Brooke nodded firmly, communicating non-verbally to them that it really happened.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡq8fyGPfrAu 維尼
December stared at her unblinkingly, before she chuckled and shook her head. "Thank you for that but…no. While getting married is in my plans in the far future, I can assure you that I won't elope. Plus, I don't think Zach's that kind of person."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9aa7EDWdOi 維尼
"So you have thought of Zach as the prospective groom." Raven said smoothly, her brows waggled suggestively and they collectively nodded their assent.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡbyLvo92OcL 維尼
"What? No! I… Raven." December spluttered, her face becoming even more flushed. Why do they love teasing her so much?8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡUMr1G4BSdP 維尼
"Alright, let's really hear it." Serena said once they calmed down.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡITJ4ZgVNCH 維尼
"Thank you, Serena." December said, pleased, before continuing, or she tried to. December suddenly felt foolish and nervous, but she attributed that it's only because she hadn't brought up the topic before. "So, prom's about to start…and…I-I was wondering if you would help me find a dress. Please."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡYmLPCFpvL6 維尼
There was silence, and then:8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡFyqJ27xxB6 維尼
"Oh my God, finally!"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡHu2srUBlZM 維尼
"What Raven said, but who are you and what have you done with December?"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡNh4brg6n7M 維尼
"Of course!"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡsblAIkfWmt 維尼
Those were Raven, Brooke, and Serena's reactions simultaneously, and December let out a nervous chuckle.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡwwJGDm5ABb 維尼
Was it really that hard to believe that she was into this?8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡIEEbC6SmQD 維尼
She stared at them. Yes, I guess it was.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡSuE43Vlw17 維尼
They looked as though they have found hope and maybe they did.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡwJ4f7yYD0p 維尼
Serena was delighted. "Honestly, I didn't think you would even ask us that. Of course, we're going to help you find the best dress!"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7IPB5Pfzd4 維尼
"The one and only!"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡGF0i7LvTHZ 維尼
Brooke, the ever dramatic girl she was, pretended to sob uncontrollably. "I knew Zach is a miracle. Has he ask you yet? He better make his move! He's changed you. I thought we'd have to drag you this year but look at you now." She then sniffled.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡMCTSvgrYUZ 維尼
December laughed out loud at Brooke's non-stop chatter. "Brooke, stop." Then she added as an afterthought, still chuckling. "And not yet, but it's alright. If he doesn't, then I will."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡMz6vgZDjFU 維尼
"Atta girl." Brooke smiled at her knowingly before she nodded at Serena and Raven, nudging them to lift an imaginary flute of champagne for a salute.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡbaIHod6NSu 維尼
And the crazy part was that they all acquiesced. December couldn't help another round of laughter.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡr8OkZqSeKs 維尼
After a moment, she added, "Thanks so much, guys. I felt iffy because I'm not really into dress shopping but this is our final year and…well, there's Zach." She looked on shyly. "I just want it to be something I could always remember."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡqR4854ydzw 維尼
Raven bobbed her head vigorously. "I agree." Then, Raven did something that garnered suspicious looks from them: she blushed and looked extremely shy. "This year feels different than the previous ones, and I also want this to be a memorable one."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡxY40pAiLtC 維尼
December shared glances with Brooke and Serena before looking at Raven. "Okay, is there something you're not telling us?"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡEUav9hMXQ7 維尼
Startled, Raven asked, "W-what do you mean? What makes you think that?"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡcU0BB2CF20 維尼
"Uh, your blush. And the fact that you just tried to evade that question." Brooke raised her brows expectantly.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6IrfNh4iS3 維尼
If possible, she flushed more than December did. Raven bit her lip, looking at them all – she knew they would just be persistent – but Raven had always been a little more secretive than them all, even more so than Serena.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡSbP8kf2sSf 維尼
"Believe me, I'm dying to tell you but let's just say that if I do…it feels like I'll jinx it." She looked at them apologetically.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡh2KcEerCv7 維尼
They were dying to know, but when Raven told them about her superstitious belief and fear, they understood. No point pushing a determined Raven no matter what – yet, in that sense, it also made her a loyal and trustworthy friend.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡGa4fOu0yXP 維尼
"Okay," December relented. "But tell us whenever you're ready, alright? I mean, you know all of my secrets, Rae!"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡxXUA8bWjEI 維尼
Raven nodded firmly. Brooke suddenly cackled and it reminded December briefly of Jethro.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡf6ABvLzdkM 維尼
She stifled a giggle.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡLlvjlJG1pQ 維尼
"You may not tell us anything, but, my dear friend, unconsciously you have given us some information. It involves a crush and prom, there I said it." Brooke finished quickly, arms crossed.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡh7rSnXBjQA 維尼
"Brooke, we can surmised as much." Serena looked at her in amusement.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0Y9pM1x8yL 維尼
Brooke just shrugged at her before sitting up. "So, since December is getting into the spirit of prom, I guess I should get myself a guy to go with too. You know, final year and all."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡzzC7S3Mfsy 維尼
Serena paused in a thought before she mused out loud, "It always made me curious how you've never gone with Jet to anywhere. I thought you're childhood friends?"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡkQgClSZMeP 維尼
At the mention of Jethro, Brooke couldn't help but roll her eyes. "Yes, we may be that but not all childhood friends remained close buddies. We're just...acquaintances." She added lamely before continuing, "Besides, sometimes I just can't stand him. He's a major flirt and I don't do major flirts." Then, she wrinkled her nose. "Did I mention that I can't stand him?"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡlfwihstGND 維尼
"Twice." December blurted. She then shared a knowing look with Serena - no one mentioned anything about dating Jethro, yet her reaction geared towards that.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡGuoX1EVsGi 維尼
Raven's brows furrowed. "I thought you said Caleb is."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡQas5hpm5SE 維尼
"They both are! Gosh, they're so similar it makes me wanna barf. Maybe they should just date each other."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡzs7Za0879h 維尼
December glanced at Brooke, trying to study something about her friend. She shrugged and said, "You know… I thought the same of Pierre too. I mean, do you remember how we met? He was such an insufferable and arrogant jerk. And ugh, how he grates on my nerves! But now… he's not so bad, actually. Sure, he can get irritating, but not so much."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡVuJpm5RR1Q 維尼
They paused in thought, and after a while, nodded in agreement.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5L1mGcAxQE 維尼
"Yeah, I remember." Raven heaved a sigh before adding, "I have never seen you so bothered by a guy before."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡQQo1yxqcUu 維尼
"Weston tells me that he has been much more open than when they first met too." Serena nodded.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡZC6KfTpkEL 維尼
Brooke then said offhandedly, "Pierre isn't like these two buffoons I know, so. Whatever you're trying to say, darlin', well…it's not applicable."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡuaJs0P3pLG 維尼
December raised a brow at Brooke, and so did Raven and Serena. From the stubborn glint in her eyes, they could tell that she knew more than she let on. She nodded. "I'm just saying that maybe there's more to how a person portrays themselves. Jet's funny and I think you're both similar too." She looked at her pointedly.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡFz3jaP4ta4 維尼
Brooke, if anything, looked aghast. "We're nothing alike. If anything, he's just an annoying neighbor friend whose parents colluded with mine because they want us to look after each other. That's it."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡNkwdRadib4 維尼
"Sure, just give it time." Raven muttered softly while restraining the urge to roll her eyes.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡsglyB6vSBP 維尼
"Did you say something?" Brooke deadpanned.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ1pGLiVsoV 維尼
Raven knew better than to take the bait. She shook her head, her eyes wide with innocence. "Nothing."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡy6phW6S25r 維尼
When Brooke looked away, December, Raven, and Serena shared knowing glances.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡx234nnlUN0 維尼
"So," December piped up, "We're going to hunt our prom dress this Saturday?"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡguwTUq60rC 維尼
"Yup. I can't wait." Raven said eagerly, her hands clasped in delight.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡl6uPeQnW8X 維尼
Brooke yawned, already feeling the beckoning of her bed. "Lucky you, I have two hunts to deal with."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡVJtkT5VNfG 維尼
Serena pointed out, "We know an option."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡveAmC8dtVe 維尼
"Option denied." Brooke waved off her hand at that, ignoring the snickers in the room before adding with in a sleepy voice, "You know what? I'm gonna go and take a nap. See you in 16 hours if I'm sleeping the day away."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡuJ5UIAnyjp 維尼
December chuckled at yesterday's memory. They had talked about more than just dresses but it had been fun.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡVGMWHEXLs2 維尼
They also may be right. Ever since she started going out with Zach, she felt lighter. She was changing; perhaps it was Zach, or her friends, or maybe…it was everything in between, but she felt as though nothing could take this feeling away from her. Sometimes she still couldn't believe how they had happened – she feared that one day she would wake up and find that it was all a dream – but other times she just wanted things to stay the way they are.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡSoTxiBlmCq 維尼
After that incident with Karen, December hadn't seen much of the girl around school, and while relieved, she was also apprehensive in not knowing when Karen would be pulling her next stunt again. What happened that day was a whole new level of bullying from Karen.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡxIdlVhVhW4 維尼
She hated it. She had always wanted to get back at her, even back then, to bring her to the face of justice. December hated that she didn't have enough courage to do that, to stop these ill treatments she received regardless whether it was a verbal taunting or not. Bullying was still bullying, and she knew that she had had enough with this.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡMV8rtCJmed 維尼
The strength and sudden bravery that embraced her body felt like a dream – a fragile sensation or fleeting feeling that she was afraid to lose. She knew, though, that it wasn't the imagination, rather her determination to change the situation as well as her patience that was running out.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡOjTeQZ4nGG 維尼
Every now and then, the memories of what happened resurfaced, and she'd feel the humiliation and anger washing over her at the situation.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ40sXShjPgU 維尼
She deserved to be treated better, and that's that.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡjAozgxbmcl 維尼
Serena and Weston were still trying to get the footage from the company they knew, and despite her easygoing demeanour, she was inwardly nervous whether or not they would get it.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡh1pTGKTqVN 維尼
She shook her head, casting away thoughts that reminded her of the unpleasant situation. Her direction had been towards the second wing, where the archery arena would be at. Between everything else that happened in her life, she hadn't been able to spare some time for the sport. This notion came to mind immediately when she realised how low her stamina had been when she couldn't handle boxes of ornaments.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡBky3dbCuz6 維尼
Such a lazy girl, her mind reprimanded.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡRWIeTw0CCU 維尼
"I'm not even going to deny that." She muttered to herself. "But first, I'm going to get some snacks and an ice cream."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3QxSwbFlag 維尼
With those thoughts in mind and a change of step in that direction, December hoped the rest of the day would continue to be kind to her.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡsdtRw9YJ93 維尼
On the other side of the wing stood a girl who had a contemplative look about her. She held a phone against her ear, listening to the caller with a frown on her pretty face. She glanced at both sides, hoping no one saw her. Despite standing out of sight at the corner in a building that's mostly empty during class hours, she didn't want to risk being caught by people she knew.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡLrrkLSClJw 維尼
The girl looked troubled before she huffed impatiently.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡcrl6oqxQhL 維尼
"The plan is still in motion and I have done the best I can. Is it not enough?"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡOZAhcIynI1 維尼
She could practically see the arrogant look on the caller's face as they said, "Nothing is ever enough, not until victory is on our side. You must do everything to make our plan go smoothly. Remember," She could see them looking at her pointedly. "We're in this together. If word comes out that he knows we're here…."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ63jnnkLRlI 維尼
Everything may just fall apart. The unspoken reminder rang in mind. She sighed in frustration – she really didn't need that reminder taunting her.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ19LB4rRdQT 維尼
As if I could ever forget that. She rolled her eyes in annoyance at the caller's impertinent tone. If you wanted a favour, at least be courteous about it.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡJR6RLvsSrX 維尼
"I know. Don't worry about it."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡMb79nToKDL 維尼
Even from miles away, their soft laughter left a chill over her and she resist the urge to rub off her arms.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡW57A5RZr8c 維尼
"I'll hold you to that." They said before clearing their throat. She could hear the smile in their voice when they continued, "As long as he's on our side, everything will be just fine."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡEi9tIIE9xz 維尼
The call ended and she had the urge to put a dent in something. The last plan was almost a success but some things happened and she never got to put her main intention in action.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡIoliTBtzbk 維尼
Yet.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡKqJPEGqEtn 維尼
There was now a determined glint in her eyes. I won't give up, she thought silently.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡxd2dBH0f2m 維尼
She looked out from between the stone pillars that complement the arch hallway; there was a lake not far away.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9NiSh26gVM 維尼
She held back an empty smile. She had no time to appreciate her surroundings when there was so much to do.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡFEjl1fbxSU 維尼
It must have been close to another period since she left class, and she figured she had been away long enough for her to return back. Stepping out of the alcove, she made to turn towards the direction she came from when she halted her steps and froze.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡAdBy4L1T2g 維尼
"Katya?"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡhsNjMg3PW9 維尼
The colour drained from her face and her heart thumped loudly at the thought that she had been heard.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡsaHzKz3qeL 維尼
By the look on his face, it seemed that she had.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡUBMLuYnVBZ 維尼
She just had to be found by the one person whom was the center of the plans.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡVrOt0zQ1LG 維尼
"Pierre! What…what are you doing here?"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡyUdhSrUxJZ 維尼
Pierre was glad that he had free period right now. He didn't know how much longer he could stand hearing the old lecturer droning about formulas and equations in a dull tone.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡPYdJ6mh8S5 維尼
Hell, he was surprised he managed to not fall asleep in class.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡvnyu84JsNf 維尼
Regardless, he was looking forward to the hours of solitude. Maybe he could sleep for a while before his next class starts, or he could find that garden and enjoy the peaceful surrounding while he draw something.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡgC3IOMwLT3 維尼
Unbidden, his thought echoed a name.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡV4XIkvLaPA 維尼
December.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡaX2CUQd0Ju 維尼
He frowned, not understanding why he was suddenly thinking about her. Almost instantly, the frown eased away when he thought of how he met her there in the gardens.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡY6X3KT6G9Y 維尼
Yeah, that has to be why I thought of her.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡfWITGusf4R 維尼
A smile graced Pierre's lips, something that only his friends now get to see, instead of the entire student body. Thus, that was why one student faltered in her steps when she looked upon him, face in disbelief and etched in slight fear.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡsuF88ZzUtY 維尼
If Pierre saw that, he didn't think anything of it as he walked towards his dorm.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡPWu84sHaJI 維尼
Upon reaching the room, he walked in only to see Oliver, Caleb, and Blake lounging in the room; Caleb and Blake playing a video game he had seen too many times to even ask, eyes fixated on the huge LCD installed on the wall, and Oliver preoccupied with his phone on his bed.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡnJLJ06PXEB 維尼
He raised an amused brow at the scene before him.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡDkh18BmGpA 維尼
A few weeks ago Oliver had moved into his room which he shared with Jethro and Weston. He didn't think it would be possible considering how other rooms had the two-tenant policy – well, three for rare occasions which included him – but apparently the school could allow one more student into their room. On the day Pierre, Weston, and Jethro were called to the office, they were informed that their room was one of the huge ones – more spacious than the slightly average sized room – therefore, they would need to situate one more student in it due to a maintenance issue.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡmFQJ1xySee 維尼
They hadn't minded much, actually because their room had been one of the largest ones in the dorms.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡLH08kMS934 維尼
He had been curious as to whom would be their roommate, and both Jethro and Weston had joked that they might have to expand their room soon to accommodate more students. But they welcomed the addition, and he was surprised to find out that it was Oliver.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡrgBErwBTkf 維尼
According to Oliver, his room was the only few to accommodate one person, but it was one of the farthest room from the rest, and they decided to turn it into a maintenance closet.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7R1Mvg5DIw 維尼
Oliver glanced and greeted him.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡcccmjaBEQN 維尼
Blake and Caleb looked up briefly before resuming their game.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡdFlXIhHupX 維尼
"Hey, man." Caleb said, eyes not leaving the game.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡX9F27lfuL9 維尼
Blake stated, "Hey, I hope you don't mind us crashing your place."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6t6mW5uH1h 維尼
From the back on the bed, Oliver let out a soft chuckle and Caleb sighed to Pierre, "He's already said that to Oliver, Jethro, and Weston. I swear, this dude can be the meanest quarterback on field but he has the most impeccable manner outside. I'm surprised he's not with anyone yet."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡSW5Zv5qWCA 維尼
"Yeah? Well, I'm surprised why you're not with anyone yet. I heard you've got some love confession today." Blake retorted with a mischievous grin.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡrkfDlf8IzB 維尼
Both Pierre and Oliver glanced at one another before saying, "How many?"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡrvEy4YPXKJ 維尼
To their delight, Caleb's cheeks were slightly flushed. "Three, but I had to say no," before he mumbled almost dejectedly, "None of them were from Karen."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡhDV5upoiff 維尼
Pierre set his bag on the bed before loosening his tie. He didn't understand Caleb's fixation on the girl, actually. Sure, he could admit Karen was beautiful but there was just something about her that seemed superficial, and it rubbed him the wrong way. At first glance, no one would think that, but after talking to her a few times, he wondered why he felt that way, and that unlike other hot blooded males at the academy, he didn't feel remotely attracted to her.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡuzygQKbjdl 維尼
He frowned again, when a brief image of snowy white hair, sharp blue eyes and bright smile at the garden flashed his mind.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡSfBo58YsVS 維尼
Pierre closed his eyes to get rid of that image. He knew who he had just thought of – after all, there was only a person he knows whose hair was silvery white, and eyes so blue he thought she could see his soul for a moment. But he wondered why of all girls, he had to imagine her instead?8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡFmhN2Qf5Gt 維尼
December…no, he reasoned. Sure, I like her but…not in that way. We're friends, he thought vehemently.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡQUJ4OioO4A 維尼
"You should be grateful someone thinks you're a charming arse, Caleb." Pierre let out a small laugh and shook his head.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4DUjehk5xv 維尼
"Hear, hear." Blake laughed, fingers vigorously pressed on the controller buttons. "She's got that fling with Harvey Janson anyway, from the swim team since the party, and when I saw them at the café, they're still at it, so tough luck, bro."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡfjd6VhdxQv 維尼
"Karen… the head cheerleader?" Oliver mused before adding, "I heard she's got some issues with the girls."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡu7Agsny5ni 維尼
"Don't they all?" Caleb asked, and groaned when he lost the game.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3rc2zpjeNc 維尼
"No, I don't think all girls have issues with each other." Blake gave Caleb a look before shaking his head. Then, he added, "Another round?"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡTxQ2D154Fw 維尼
"No thanks. I'm beat." Caleb muttered, as he gathered his things and stuffed it in the bag, with Blake shrugging then following suit.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡLPQi6m0BrN 維尼
"Where did you hear that?" Pierre asked offhandedly. He was shirtless now, skin lightly tanned, and arms lean but toned which suggested that he did not neglect to take care of his physique. Even so, Pierre didn't think he had done enough activities since coming to the academy. There was their usual P.E, where he would either do laps or play basketball with the guys, but that was it.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡpj4DVd7Svz 維尼
Then, his thoughts wondered to the club he joined; archery. Since the time he was introduced to them all, there hadn't been much activities besides practice, which he had tried several times. When he thought he was getting better at it, he would always mess something up. Frustrated, he gave up for the day.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡqMhhySc8Mi 維尼
Maybe I could try doing that again. With no one there to watch me, I think I'll do better.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡVxDRNlhmOW 維尼
Oliver shrugged. "Class."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡXMCb4fp8vz 維尼
"Maybe it's just gossip. What does it have to do with us? Nothing." Caleb yawned before slinging his bag over the shoulder and walked out the door.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡBedXZzMhfa 維尼
"Don't mind that idiot. See you guys later." Blake waved before heading out.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡLy8PXrl8NQ 維尼
Pierre nodded before slipping on a navy blue t-shirt, and set his things on his study table.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡdXvlM2vK4h 維尼
"Are you going to hit the shower?" Oliver asked as he looked up at Pierre, fingers fiddling with his phone.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡlVIpFiIj35 維尼
Pierre shook his head. "Later. I'll do that once I get some practice at the arena. How are you settling in this room?" He eyed Oliver's phone, his face lighting up and the way he pressed at the keypad furiously. "And who are you texting?"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡz0uxccy6QN 維尼
A grin broke out on Oliver's face as he looked at Pierre. "It's great. This room is thrice the size of my own down the hall and I'm lucky you guys have been welcoming enough."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡg7MjDNkJEc 維尼
Pierre laid down on his bed, but a smile was on his face. "No problem. We're friends, aren't we?"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡiZvauLy3NC 維尼
Oliver chuckled. "Thanks, man. I'm texting Piper, by the way."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡW169cVjjbW 維尼
"The lass who dared you to go home?" His brow furrowed, wondering if this was the same girl whom he met during the night he and December called truce.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡlaNM6GFB9g 維尼
"Yeah, that's the one." He laughed a little and Pierre hid a smile at his friend's excitement. While Oliver and Piper did go on a date, they decided to stay friends first. Pierre thought that was a good idea. "She's asking if I wanted to catch a movie with Jasmine and Isaac. Want to come with us?"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡRGvNVg9aAX 維尼
Only if December comes too.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡpnnwDaH6jG 維尼
"What the fuck?" He muttered and shot up, brows furrowed again. He was confused yet also frustrated at having thoughts about December.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡpvcvW0bqok 維尼
Maybe he should hang out with her often. He nodded to himself, thinking he probably just missed seeing her reactions and annoying her sometimes.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡGdrkqfa3bL 維尼
"What?" Oliver raised a brow in bewilderment.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡaQaVaB5YIJ 維尼
"Nothing. I'm going to sleep for a wee bit." He said, laying back down, his eyes heavy as exhaustion took over his body.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡNl5psfca3s 維尼
"Alright. Later, Pierre." Oliver said before exiting the room, his voice sounding distant as Pierre succumbed to his sleep.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡOSx4ISm3xO 維尼
An hour later, Pierre walked through the halls of the second building, heading towards the archery arena. Their club room wasn't that far from their practice area and upon reaching the arena floor, he thought he heard a low voice murmuring somewhere in the hallway.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡX5TqE6LxIn 維尼
Pierre stopped in his tracks, wondering what it was. The second building never seemed so populated or lively like the main one did and even though he was starting to get accustomed, things like this made him think he'd never get used to it.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡLZJ0oblkyj 維尼
There was hardly any students walking about in this hour of the day since classes for most were still ongoing. In a few rooms at a distance, he could hear some music and sound being tuned, and then jovial laughter. At that, Pierre felt himself feeling relieved. It's just people talking. The sound of that and nature, a distant waterfall of a fountain gushing and birds chirping made him feel less alone.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡBLqCFPeVnI 維尼
Pierre walked on a short flight of stairs that leads to the lower floor, but then he stopped in his tracks at what he was hearing.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡj26gu9hIVJ 維尼
It can't be. What is she doing in this quiet place?8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡIBDKIKXyv8 維尼
There was a female voice murmuring into a phone, impatient yet exhausted – one that sounded foreign but he thought he recognised it. After all, the hint of accent was already a giveaway, but Pierre told himself that she could also just be another international student.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2nTPVVBDVw 維尼
His brows furrowed as he processed them. When curiosity ate at him, he decided to step forward, and he knew he startled her when she jumped and snapped her gaze at him.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡOzy1tr4aDu 維尼
He didn't think he would be right and he raised his eyebrow at her.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡDgahtspsFn 維尼
"Katya?"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡTGY7oIrYvK 維尼
Katya looked startled and he thought she looked a little pale, too.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡB4sd0pc9gm 維尼
"Pierre! What…what are you doing here?"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7pujjNFvRp 維尼
"Funny, that's what I want to ask you too. I didn't think you'd be at this place." He put his hands in his pockets, briefly glancing at the small alcove where she must have been and brought his gaze on his cousin. "Who were you talking to?" Noticing her still pale expression, he couldn't help his concern, "Are you alright?"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡDdhHNi90BC 維尼
Her lips made to move but there were no words. But then her calm and composed mask slipped into place, an air of indifference about her as she shrugged, as though she hadn't been distressed.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡO27uFxF3Df 維尼
"It's…yes, everything's alright, Pierre. Don't worry about me." Katya told him in her smooth voice.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡEn0gz3ORqI 維尼
She couldn't meet his eyes, however, and although they hadn't been in contact for several years, some traits still stayed the same, and a small part of him was glad for that.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡnPJUdK4SCU 維尼
But it also meant that she had just lied to him.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡrP24blcDHR 維尼
Immediately, Pierre felt his defense kicking in. What is she hiding? Does it have something to do with father? At another thought which brought him briefly back to the night where things began to unravel for him, he thought it might have something to do with his mother.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡeG6lP1Gibk 維尼
He studied her; pale and weary. They were the same age yet she looked a little older in that moment, and this was a different image from the jolly, mischievous girl whom would always find a way to get him and his twin into trouble when they were little. He didn't have any sisters, and even though they were cousins, she was like one to him.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡMQQFdW9ADf 維尼
"You're not very good at lying, sestra." Pierre said quietly, his gaze still on her. "There's too many lies already. Does this have something to do with my father again?"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9RUzhrIckP 維尼
Katya seemed shocked that Pierre was onto her, and that he could still read her. Even more so that he had called her sister even after years being apart. She thought she had built an ice fortress around her heart after all these years, but turns out she wasn't so tough now. Katya tried to ignore the tug at her heart at being called that.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡUuWQtxJG8P 維尼
It meant that she was still family to him.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡLLo7sd2TpS 維尼
And they had just started reconciling, although Maksimillian was being stubborn about it.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡseEOFRMpll 維尼
But she wondered if Pierre would still consider her family if she told him what they were really doing in San Francisco.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡe7naAH9oYE 維尼
She bit her lip in frustration. It was too soon for him to know, especially since she hadn't exactly figured out what the next move would be, despite what she said on the phone. The dinner had only been the first step in the plan.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8uv6GRhd6w 維尼
Pierre was right, however, and that much she knew as their dinner came to mind several nights ago.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡXtn3B72gYM 維尼
And the more he looked at her, the harder it was to keep it in. She'd make a terrible spy and an easy target, and she hated that she still finds it hard to keep a straight face when it comes to telling the truth.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5kgk6pYy5E 維尼
Well, I was told to do what I can to make it happen, so maybe this meeting is a good thing.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡqnhJWyXmai 維尼
She sighed, dreading this moment, yet eager to be rid of her burden too. Leaning against the wall, she said, "Quite, yes. I was talking to Parker. And…well, we're here for a reason actually."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡWH60uOzLIz 維尼
If possible, Pierre's dark brows furrowed deeper and he looked extremely menacing. It felt bizarre to Katya that this was her cousin, the boy who had once been known to their family as the 'never ending sun'; always bright, tireless and all laughter. Maksimillian had been different too, hesitant but curious and eager, and he would follow Pierre everywhere they go. They both would.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡQsmPbgMx0p 維尼
But looking at him now reminded her that she didn't know this Pierre, yet he didn't completely feel lost to her.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡspBIfMFKmN 維尼
"What do you mean, Katya?" He took his hands out of the pockets and crossed his arms. He didn't know when they had switched to Russian but it felt natural again since he hadn't spoken it since dinner. Having them in his life now changed not only that, but everything that he knew too, but Pierre feared there may be something else he didn't know. "And what about Parker?"8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡusHt7U3rrt 維尼
"Well," She started, a bit hesitant which was unlike her character from how she portrayed herself at school, before adding, "This will take a while. Shall we move somewhere?" She looked hopeful.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡMipLhzwxvL 維尼
When he shook his head, she sighed. So much for stalling. "Alright, that night we had you over for dinner, when you found out that dyadya, your father, kept secrets from you, we wanted to tell you something else too."8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡLomvofcaUn 維尼
A sense of dread washed through him. A flash of memory brought him back to the night he found out the deception on his father's part. And his family had been torn apart by it. Although he believed them, he also needed to hear it from his father too, and soon he would get to it.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡ36qxtr4U5P 維尼
But for now, the realisation of what had happened to them all still left a bitter taste in his mouth. That night had been a nightmare to him.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡFksiC4BC3U 維尼
Learning some things that he never thought was the case had been unpleasant, yet at the end of it all, he had been glad he knew of it.8964 copyright protection427ＰＥＮＡＮＡFkJLasbfdS 維尼
ns44.200.174.97da2
