Morning arrived, with birds chirping and the curtains already drawn open, allowing sunlight to pour in and touch my skin, which made me squint uncomfortably. I let out a groan and turned over.
Suddenly, I sat up with a start, my eyes wide as I recalled the events of the previous night. I quickly checked myself to confirm I was still alive and not just a ghost wandering in search of my own lifeless body.
After feeling my pulse and confirming it was strong, I let out a sigh of relief. "I'm still here..." I reclined once more, gazing at the ceiling and reflecting on everything.
I had come perilously close to being killed by an enigmatic man, only to be saved by a dark hero. The image of that person beheading my assailant was all too real... It sent chills down my spine. Additionally, the reality of that figure striking my neck, causing me to lose consciousness, was equally undeniable.
I touched the area and felt a dull ache. Yes, it's certainly there. I got up from my bed and made my way to the mirror. As I looked at my reflection, I noticed that my neck was neatly bandaged, obscuring any view of the bruise.
"They rescued me and brought me back home..." I whispered, running my fingers over the bandage on my neck. Then, a shocking thought crossed my mind. "Wait... How did that person know where I live?" I gasped.
This is both unsettling and frightening. Since the mysterious figure knows my address, does it mean they could easily harm me if I anger them?! I shook my head to dismiss the idea. No, no, no.
I took a moment to steady my nerves and remembered my potato chips. I dashed downstairs to the kitchen and spotted a plastic bag on the counter. "Oh..."
I also noticed a cooked egg and bacon, along with a glass of water and a note beside it. I picked up the small piece of paper and read the message.
"I prepared a meal for you. I understand that you're feeling drained, and this should help replenish your strength. Please have something to eat and drink the water I've set out for you. Have a nice day."
- Unknown
I set the note back down and gazed at the meal and water. I wondered if it was safe to consume. How could I be certain? After a brief moment of contemplation, I shrugged it off. I guess the only way to find out is to give it a try.
With that thought in mind, I began to enjoy the meal. The clinking of the utensils accompanied each bite. It was absolutely delicious; clearly, the cook had impressive skills. I savored every moment. Once I'd finished eating, I washed the dishes and tidied up the countertop. After stretching my arms, I headed to the bathroom for a refreshing bath.
As time passed and I finished getting ready, I stepped outside in an oversized grey shirt, white shorts, and black sneakers. While walking down the street, my thoughts wandered to Felix.
I find myself wondering how he's doing at the moment. I gazed at the gates in front of me, contemplating whether I should make a move. I long for the privileges that come with being among the affluent. Gradually, I made my way toward the entrance.
At last, I reached the gates, where the guards watched me intently, clearly recognizing who I was.
"When are you going to stop trying, miss? You're not allowed past here," said the guard with a prominent tooth, rolling his eyes.
"It's an important request. You should consider yourself fortunate that the man who asked for a favor intends to provide you with benefits every week. Now, turn back," replied the other guard, who had long hair and a somewhat emo appearance.
"An important request?" I inquired, pausing to reflect. "I've heard that such significant requests are reserved for the Elites. So, does that mean Felix is one of the Elites?" I continued bluntly, causing them to react in surprise at my perceptiveness.
"Impressive!" the guard with the toothy smile exclaimed, clapping his hands.
"Remarkable..." the emo guard agreed with a nod.
"I'm Reo, and this is Mhil," the guy with the wide grin said, introducing himself and the emo-looking Mhil.
"I don't believe all Trash are unintelligent," Reo added with a light laugh.
"I understand... It's a pleasure to meet you, Reo and Mhil," I replied with a smile. "I'm Clara," I continued, followed by a smirk.
"Do you enjoy rewarding others?" I inquired, looking at both of them. They exchanged confused glances before returning their focus to me.
"I do," Mhil responded. "Same here," Reo chimed in with a smile. "Why do you ask?" he added.
"Since I've grasped the situation, would you consider rewarding me with access to the gates of the wealthy?" I said softly, flashing a charming smile. They paused for a moment, appearing slightly hesitant.
"You both mentioned that you enjoy giving rewards, so this should be mine," I attempted to convince them of my proposal.
Finally, they both sighed and nodded in agreement.
"Alright, but just to clarify, we're only agreeing to your request," Reo said as he and Mhil opened the gates together.
"Don't think that makes you special, though," Mhil added, tossing his hair nonchalantly. I nodded enthusiastically, grinning widely.
"Absolutely! Thank you, everyone!" I exclaimed joyfully as I stepped through the gates. My eyes grew wide at the view once more. I can never get enough of the sight of the buildings and the flying cars around here. This place is truly the realm of the affluent.
It has been a week and a day since I last saw Felix. Now, I'm eager to see him again. I feel both excited and anxious at this moment. My mind keeps conjuring various scenarios for how our encounter might go. I hope nothing goes awry. I hope we can communicate and resolve our issues.
I dashed to the store, my eyes lighting up at the sight of the familiar, aesthetically pleasing historical design shop that I always frequented.
At last...
At last...
At last!!!
I came to a halt when I finally arrived at my destination. Through the glass entrance, I spotted him assisting his customers, scanning items, and processing payments. He appears just as he always has. Unfazed. But I know deep down that he has a good heart.
I observed him from outside until he sensed my presence. He looked towards the door and met my gaze. I couldn't help but wave enthusiastically. I noticed his eyes lighting up upon seeing me, but then they became distant.
"Why so cold?" I murmured to myself, offering him a shy smile. He finished with the customer as they left the shop. That's when he approached the door, opened it, and halted in front of me.
"How did you get in here? I instructed the guards to keep a close eye on you in case you tried anything foolish to come here," he stated sternly. Despite his harsh tone and irritated expression, his eyes revealed the truth. I could sense gratitude in his gaze for my safety.
"Well, I used my intellect and sort of convinced them," I replied boldly while giving him a playful wink. His expression grew more aggravated as he fixed his stare on me. "Leave," he commanded, and was about to turn away from me, but I quickly grasped his arm, pulling him to face me once more.
This action made him catch his breath.
"Why do you keep distancing yourself from me? I came here so we could talk. You can't just act like our friendship meant nothing!" I looked at him with resolve, wanting to restore our friendship. "I know you're really angry about what I did, ignoring your advice... But we can't hold grudges forever when we have the opportunity to mend things..." I continued, my voice slightly trembling and my hand quivering against his arm.
Felix clicked his tongue and turned away, taking a moment to think. Gradually, he relaxed and let out a sigh. "Alright. Come inside," he said in a calm tone. My lips broke into a wide smile filled with hope. "Yes!" I responded eagerly with a nod.
Felix and I ended up having an extensive discussion. I cried as he did his best to comfort me, and I had to admit he was a bit clueless when it came to comforting someone because instead of patting my back, he just gazed at me while attempting to hold my hand but hesitated. It was quite endearing, and I appreciated his efforts.
I even recounted to him what had transpired the previous night, and he became visibly angry, demanding to know where the guy was so he could take revenge, but he calmed down once I explained that the dark hero had dealt with him. Upon hearing that name, he nodded with pride, declaring that the dark hero is indeed a good person.
"Just like you, Felix," I said with a smile.
"Me?" he asked, surprised.
"Yes. You're kind as well. You treat me as an equal." I softly touched his hand, which made his body tense up momentarily, but he relaxed soon after. His fingers gently intertwined with mine, causing a slight blush to creep onto my cheeks.
"Hm, I suppose I am," he replied with a gentle smile. It was the second time I had witnessed him smile, and he looked both charming and adorable.