Kyle Ethan’s POV
“I’m done. Shall we go?”
My attention shifted to the suitcase she was holding, which was now closed.
“Okay.” I turned to Steph, who had finished packing her things. “Steph, you may go ahead first. We’ll just follow.”
Nicole frowned when she faced me. “Why won’t we go together?”
I smirked and nodded at Steph. She quickly understood what I meant, so she hurriedly left the room.
“What’s your problem this time, Kyle?” She placed her hands on her hips while glaring at me.
I chuckled at her expression. Why does she still look beautiful even when she’s angry?
I didn’t answer her. Instead, I pulled her with me and we both landed on her soft bed.
“K-Kyle... What are you d-doing?”
I smiled as I felt her heart beating strongly. Just like mine. From then until now, she still had that effect on me.
“Will you not spoil the moment, babe? I just miss this. I miss being near you like this. I miss lying beside you while we were both talking about the future and stuff. I just miss you,” I sincerely said.
We were always together, and we often saw each other. But it really feels different if you have spare time just for the two of you. It’s like the whole world revolved only around the two of you, with no other concerns except for your plans in life. I couldn’t even recall the last time we were like this.
“Okay, babe. But what if they think of something?” She pouted, and oh, how I’d love to kiss her lips right now.
But instead, I kissed her forehead and hugged her tightly. She nestled closer to my neck, and I couldn’t help but laugh as she sniffed it.
“Why do you smell so good, babe?”
I pinched her cheeks. “And why are you so cute, babe?” I asked in return.
She shrugged. “I don’t know. I was just born this way and I can’t do anything about it. I don’t have any other choice but to get used to it.”
I made a humorous laugh because of what she said. She gave me a murderous look and playfully pinched my side.
“Hey! Stop that! You know babe, too much confidence is bad.”
She frowned. I find it cute how her expression changed in an instant. “Coming from you. You’re just insecure!”
“Maybe you’re the one who’s insecure. If I know, you’re head over heels for me.” I wiggled my eyebrows, and she lightly hit my arm.
“Dream on!”
I couldn’t help but gaze at her sweet face when I saw that she had closed her eyes. This time, a smile formed on her lips.
And I swear that I will do and risk everything just to see that smile of hers all over again.
***
Reiri’s POV
“Where are they? Why aren’t they here yet?”
I just shrugged at Miley, who had been sulking beside me earlier. We were both excited about our very first sleepover. It’s happening for the first time after several years, and it’s a date to remember.
But where could they be? What took them so long? Especially since Steph has been here since earlier.
“What else are they doing there, Steph?” I asked, beaming at her.
But it seems she didn’t hear me because her eyes were focused on...
My brother.
I just shrugged. I really hope they would go back to how things were before. She’s already like a sister to me. And she’s the only person I trust with Vince.
“Steph?” I lightly tapped her, causing her to jump in surprise.
“Oh. Do you have something to say, Rei?”
I was about to ask her again when the door suddenly opened, revealing the royalties.
“Nics!” Miley and I ran towards her to give her a hug.
I bet this is going to be a good day. Oh, scratch that. A good night, rather.
***
Hiro’s POV
“Have you not noticed anything about him?”
Kira was momentarily taken aback by returning to the mansion. We were currently in the training area to practice. Having a special ability and power doesn’t mean we don’t need to train at all.
“I have. But I think it’s better if we just leave it to him. All we need to do right now is to trust him.”
I let out a sigh. I knew that we still didn’t have the right to be happy and complacent at the moment.
The worst has yet to happen.
I stood up as well. “Yeah. You’re right. For now, let’s all enjoy the night. They’re probably already there.”
***
Nicole Jane’s POV
I almost lost my balance because of these girls that are hugging me to death right now.
“Hey! She can’t breathe! You two should separate!” The two glared at Kyle.
We are currently here in the mansion of the royals. Earlier, all the CA students were sent home to prepare for the upcoming graduation the next day. Since only Steph and I are left in the dormitory, they decided to let us stay here until the special day arrives.
I can say that I really love the idea. It feels like we are one big family here. Even though I already slept here before, it still feels different when we’re all together.
“It looks like we need to use the exclusive room right now! It’s been a while since we last used it!” Miley’s eyes twinkled in excitement.
“The exclusive room?” I asked. Where is that? And why does it feel like I’m hearing about it for the first time?
“It’s a large room where all of us can fit. That’s where we’ll be sleeping together tonight.” I looked over at Hiro and Kira, who just arrived.
Oh, I didn’t know that such a part of the mansion actually existed. I’ve been around here a few times, and aside from their rooms, I’ve only seen two big guest rooms.
“Now, what’s the plan? Movie marathon?” Rei asked when we all gathered in the living room. Thankfully, Vince is here too, at last.
“I like that! Besides, there’s an entertainment area in the exclusive room. It feels like we’re actually watching in a cinema,” Miley said.
That’s true. With all the things we’ve been busy with these past few days, we completely forgot to have some fun.
I smiled when something popped into my mind. “I have a better idea.”
Everyone turned to look at me.
“Why do I feel like it’s not going to be good?” Kira joked.
I just smirked at them. “I swear. This will feel good.”
***
“Truth or Dare? Nah. I’m out.” Vince was about to leave when I blocked his way.
“Why? Afraid?” I raised an eyebrow at him.
His ears reddened. “Me? Afraid? Why would I?” he answered while pointing at himself.
I shrugged. “If you’re not, then prove it. We’ve given you weeks of silence and allowed you to keep quiet. We think it’s about time you return the favor.”
“Fine!” he said and walked back to his spot.
We’re now here in what they call the exclusive room. It turns out it’s in the underground, which is why I didn’t see it before. This room is so big that it could be a whole house on its own.
I observed them one by one before sitting down. I could feel the tension emanating from each of them. I can sense that there are secrets that will be revealed here.
“Perhaps you already know the mechanics of this game. No passing allowed, okay? Let’s start.”
“Nics, can’t we just have a movie marathon instead?” Rei asked.
“Nope. We can do that tomorrow if you guys insist,” I said firmly.
I couldn’t help but smirk. It seems like this night will be really exciting. I can even see, through my peripheral vision, the strange look that Kyle is giving me.
“Okay,” she said, sounding defeated.
I wanted to laugh at her reaction, but I held back. They look like a group of caught criminals about to undergo interrogation.
I spun the bottle to begin. Steph turned pale as the bottle pointed towards her first.
“Truth or Dare?” I asked, noticing her slight gulp.
“D-Dare!” she stuttered.
I bit my lower lip. “Okay. Slap the one who hurt you the most.” Their jaws dropped at my words.
“What? I didn’t say to slap hard. Even just a light slap will do,” I said defensively.
I see the hesitation in her eyes. Her lips are even trembling.
“You know what? This is crazy. We shouldn’t—” Vince was interrupted when Steph’s hand landed on his cheek.
“What the hell?” He looked at her in surprise.
“Sorry,” she said while avoiding his gaze.
We all laughed. I wasn’t surprised by what she did. I just know that Vince deserves that one. Maybe it will make him realize something.
Steph was the next one to spin the bottle, and it landed on Reiri.
“Dare,” she said straight away.
I shook my head because it seemed like she was already prepared for whatever her answer would be.
Steph thought for a moment. “Hug the one you hate the most.”
Rei looked at her with a pained expression. “Is that serious?” Steph nodded. Rei then looked at Vince with pleading eyes.
“What? You even agreed to do this in the first place. So you must do it.”
She lightly massaged her temples while closing her eyes tightly. “Fine!”
“Woah!” The whole room filled with teasing as he hugged Hiro beside him. Even though it was only for a moment, I couldn’t miss the blush on both of their faces. Meanwhile, Vince just furrowed his brow.
After Rei, it was Kyle’s turn to be in line with the bottle.
“Dare,” he said while looking directly at me.
Rei’s eyes seemed to sparkle. “Kiss Nics on the cheeks!”
“Ayie!”
Now it was my turn to be singled out! Well, it’s just on the cheek anyway. It’s not a big deal.
Kyle started to lean forward, and now my left cheek is facing him. But instead of his lips touching my cheek, he turned my face towards him and kissed my lips.
My eyes widened, and I could feel my face heating up. This is the first time he kissed me in front of them!
Before I could protest, he quickly pulled away. “You’re so unfair! Rei said a kiss on the cheek!” I pouted.
They all laughed. I wanted to disappear like a bubble or be swallowed up by the ground because of embarrassment.
He shrugged. “I just think that a kiss on the lips is much better.”
“So sweet!” Miley said, seemingly tickled.
I didn’t argue anymore because I knew they would all take his side anyway.
The bottle had spun several times, and I couldn’t help but feel annoyed because they kept choosing dares. They’re really avoiding answering a question. I still have so many things I wanted to ask them, to be honest.
“Let’s call it a night already. I want to rest,” Vince suddenly stood up, catching our attention.
I was about to protest when a familiar voice spoke from behind.
“Did we miss something?”
Slowly, I turned around, and I almost jumped in surprise when I saw the three of them standing near the door.
“Gino! Althea and Athena!”
“We hope you don’t mind if we join the sleepover?” Athena asked awkwardly.
We all stood up quickly and approached them. That’s when I noticed their bags on the floor.
“Of course, we don’t mind! This is going to be fun!” Miley and Reiri screamed.
I couldn’t help but smile. I looked around and almost cried from the overwhelming happiness I felt at that moment. I can say that I have found a second family with them. A bigger one. And our differences don’t hinder us from being united.
When my eyes met Kyle’s, I knew right then and there that he’s the one behind all of this. I smiled at him and whispered.
“Thank you.”
***
Someone’s POV
“I didn’t expect him to be defeated just like that. I really couldn’t count on him for anything.”
I thought I could still see him alive, but I was mistaken.
The pale and thin girl in front looked up at me. “It’s not true! He did everything! It just happens that they have a bigger army. The protectors and the vampire hunters are now on their side. Even the white witches!”
I threw the cigarette I had just smoked on the ground and crushed it with my foot. “It’s not about the number. It’s all about the strength. Keep that in mind.” I grinned at her. “That’s why you need to become stronger. Will you just let the sacrifices of your loved ones go to waste? They took everything from you. Will you just let that pass?”
She shook her head repeatedly. “No! I’ll make sure she also feels the pain of losing everything. I’ll make sure of that,” she said, and determination was evident in her eyes. Well, at least she’s not like that useless person.
I tapped her shoulder and walked past her. But before I completely exited the door, I looked back at her again.
“Prepare yourself. Because the real battle is just about to begin.”