ã€ŠParamountã€‹


 It all begins...

    Arthur Taylor, such a horrible name, isn''t it? A name I''m stuck with for life. Mum could''ve called me something cool like, I dunno, Clark, Bruce, Peter, Barry. Yes, I am listing off super heroes names, but only because she gave me the crappiest one! Arthur! You know, Aquaman''s name! Who likes Aquaman!?

    I shook my head in frustration then began to wonder why my mind started thinking about something as silly as my name. I have much bigger things to be worrying about.

    I reverse away from my desk then push myself towards my bed.

    Yeah, I''m in a wheelchair. It''s the first and last thing people seem to notice about me, and I hate that. I''m so much more than that guy in the chair!

    The reason I''m in this stupid thing is because I have serious pain in my feet and legs, which the doctors still haven''t diagnosed. And also because I lose consciousness a lot of the time. Mum and I call it ¡®dozing off¡¯, cause it''s like I''m asleep, but I''m really not. And it''s not narcolepsy because I can hear and feel everything going on around me. Confusing, right?

    I painfully transfer from my chair to my bed then roll onto my side.

    I really wish I didn''t have all these things wrong about me. I was perfectly able five years ago. I could run, jump, go to school, do anything. But now my pain and dozing off are in the way, and I hate that.

    I can''t even go to school anymore, well, I guess I''d be in college now. My old school isn''t accessible for wheelchairs at all. There''s literally one ramp in the entire school, and there are lifts, but no one would ever let you use them. God knows why.

    Mum went through a lot of hassle getting me out of school, and they still get on her case about it. But it''s not her fault! They should have made more to make the school able to have me!

    I did hear about a load of schools that are for people with disabilities, but they were ages away, and Mum doesn''t have a car. She can''t afford one. They can do transport for people like me, but of course we didn''t get that. They think we''re lying about our troubles, who on earth would do such a thing?

    I huff then force my eyes closed as I hug my pillow.

    I hardly slept last night, thinking about all this. I''m so bored at home, I hardly ever get out of the house. The only life I have is on the computer as The Dark Swipe.

    I smile weakly, my eyes still closed as I imagine how cool it would be to take on his role as an anti hero. A bit like Batman, but with actual powers and special abilities.

    That''d be awesome¡­

    I fell asleep surprisingly easily, until I was rudely awakened by the joker laugh ringtone on my phone.

    Ugh¡­ Who on earth is calling me!?

    I roll over then reach out for my bedside table, where my phone was vibrating.

    I hit answer then hold it to my ear whilst shielding my eyes from the sun, which was beaming through my window.

    ¡°Hello?¡± I mumble.

    ¡°Hey, man, whatcha up to?¡± Dennis says casually.

    My eyes widen in shock.

    Dennis? We haven''t spoken since that fight we had last year. Why is he calling up all of a sudden, being so friendly?

    ¡°Um, Dennis, why are you calling me?¡± I ask awkwardly.

    There was a slight pause. ¡°Why not? You are my best bro.¡±

    I furrow my brows then shift on the bed so I sat up. ¡°Your best bro? The same guy you said was useless ever since he had to be in a chair?¡± I say shortly, throwing his words back in his face.

    I hear him sigh. ¡°Yeah, that was really bad of me to say, and I really regret that. Can I come over and apologise in person? And before you say no, I promise to not take the mick out of you, and I have something really important to tell you.¡±

    I purse my lips.

    I would say no way, but now I''m really curious. This is the most exciting thing that''s happened in my life for months. The last thing that actually happened in my life was when I finally got my hands on StormOCrash. The best game ever. Fullstop.

    ¡°Okay, but-¡±

    ¡°Yes! Do you still live at CherryTree?¡± He cuts off excitedly.

    ¡°No, we finally got a bungalow, so we moved to Porters Way. I can text you the address. But-¡±

    He cut me off again, making me sigh.

    He''s terrible for doing that. It''s a really annoying trait.

    ¡°Awesome! I''m at Dean''s, and he literally lives across the road. Convenient, huh? Give me the door number, I''ll run over.¡±

    My face falls.

    Crap, I thought I''d have time to clean my room before he comes. The living room will have to do.

    ¡°Um, number 13, but, Dennis-¡±

    ¡°See ya in a sec!¡±

    He hung up. I let out a big sigh then lift myself back into my wheelchair. I set my phone on my lap then strap myself in.

    Mum will go mental if I don''t do it. To be honest, it stops me from falling out of the wheelchair when I doze off, but I just feel like a baby in a pram. And I hate that.

    After securing the ones around my chest, I wheel myself out of my room, awkwardly shutting the door behind me.

    Mum''s at work at the moment, and she won''t be back ¡®till late tonight. Thankfully, she premade me some curry so I can reheat it for dinner. I''ve got microwave rice to go with it.

    As I grow closer to the front door, I feel really nervous.

    The only people I talk to are online, and I have to deal with them talking trash and being salty. At least I can just mute them or leave the party. I can''t do that in real life. If only¡­

    Dennis was the only friend I managed to keep from school last year. Everyone else just laughed and looked down their noses at me. But I''ve always thought that the reason he snapped at me was because people started to bully him for being friends with me. I still hope that''s the case.

    Obviously, I don''t want him to be bullied. But it''s easier to accept that, compared to him hating my disability. And to be honest, he wouldn''t be the only one to hate it. My disabilities are at the top of my ¡®hate¡¯ list.

    The doorbell rings as I approach it. I take a deep shaky breath then unlock the door.

    After backing up to open it, Dennis stands there with a massive grin on his face.

    He''s much taller than I remember. His light brown hair is longer, too, but the sides of his head are shaved. The longer middle portion slicked back with a ton of gel.

    ¡°Hey, man, it''s been too long, but I''m to blame for that.¡± He exclaims.

    I force a smile, but then feel myself staring into space.

    Aw, crap. Don''t doze off now!

    Then bang, my head drops, my arms fall limp, and my eyes clamp down shut.

    I never feel when it is coming. But there are times where I stare into space like that, and normally I do doze off right after.

    Strangely, I don''t sense panic from Dennis. He''s not trying to shake me awake or scream my name, or call an ambulance.

    He hasn''t seen this happen to me before, I don''t understand why he''s so calm.

    I feel him place my hands on my lap and gently move my head to my shoulder so it rests on it rather than hanging down. Which I''m thankful for.

    It''s always so uncomfortable when I go, it''s nice for someone to help me be more comfortable. But it''s also really weird. I only started dozing off about eight months ago, way after our argument.

    I hear him walk around, then a soft material tucks around my arms. I think he''s tucking a blanket around me.

    ¡°Are you seriously alone here?¡± He mutters. I gulp.

    Mum doesn''t like leaving me, but she needs to work, otherwise we''ll be homeless and starving.

    He shuts the door quietly then pushes me into what I think is the living room.

    ¡°Right, don''t freak out, Arthur, I''m going to call someone who can help. I know you can hear me, so try not to panic.¡± He tries to assure me, just leaving me even more puzzled.

    How does he know? And who''s he gonna call? No one, not even a doctor can help me come out of it. It just happens. I can be out for hours sometimes.

    ¡°Hey, Eve- No! Don''t hang up, this is important! I know I messed up, but I can make it up to you¡­¡± His voice trails off as he walks away. Now I''m a bit scared.

    What is going on¡­? I know I said I wanted more to happen in my life, but not whatever the hell this is!

    I groan then force my eyes open. I''m finally coming out of it! Yes!

    Dizziness attacks me as I lift my head, and my hands ache from being clenched into fists.

    I don''t know why, but my hands do that when I''m out.

    Pulling the blanket down from my arms, I then wheel myself towards the back door, where Dennis is standing with a grin on his face. ¡°No, I promise I won''t screw this up!¡±

    He hangs up his phone then turns to look at me. He seems nervous now. ¡°Oh, you came out of that quick.¡± He says with a forced laugh.

    The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.

    ¡°How do you even know about that, Dennis?¡± I question.

    He sighs then scratches the back of his head. ¡°Long story, man¡­ Where''s your mum or carer?¡± He asks, conveniently changing the subject.

    ¡°Mum''s at work, and the carer is next door.¡± I lie. Well, half lie.

    Mum is at work, but I don''t have a carer. I''ve never had one. Mum will get in a lot of trouble if someone found out I was here alone. Again, we have no choice. Mum hasn''t got the money.

    He raises an eyebrow at me, as if he knows I''m lying. I gulp then turn and push myself into the living room.

    ¡°Well, isn''t the whole reason they''re paid is to keep an eye on you?¡± He remarks.

    I can''t question that logic. He''s completely right.

    ¡°You haven''t got one, have you?¡± He continues to question.

    My head bows as panic spreads through my chest. I''m about to doze off again. Anxiety is the worst trigger for it.

    ¡°Why do you care all of a sudden?¡± I grumble, fighting to keep my eyes open.

    ¡°I''ve always cared. I just didn''t realise you weren''t being looked after here, but that can change.¡±

    My face screws up in confusion.

    What''s he on about?

    I manage to lift my head slightly to look at him, but it quickly fell forward again.

    Argh¡­ this is so frustrating¡­

    ¡°I can help you get out of here, Arthur, actually have a life!¡± He exclaims.

    I scowl. ¡°You''re insane, Dennis, living in a dream world!¡±

    He laughs really hard, puzzling me. ¡°Wow, if only you knew how close to the truth you really are!¡±

    I shake my head in disbelief.

    He''s insane. He always has been.

    ¡°Look, Arthur, I''m gonna be truthful here, I know why you faint like that. And it''s gonna be one hell of an explanation, so prepare yourself.¡±

    I pull a face.

    He knows? That''s impossible. Even the most qualified doctors don''t have a clue!

    I try my hardest to lift my head up. It won''t budge.

    Argh¡­ I just wanna look up! Why is that so hard!?

    ¡°Right, where do I start¡­? Oh, I''ll start with myself. You know when I stopped seeing you and wouldn''t contact you? That''s because I was going through the same crap you are now. I didn''t know who I was, until I met this chick called Eve. You with me so far?¡±

    My jaw drops.

    He was¡­? How is that possible¡­?

    ¡°We''re called Surfers, man, we''re not human!¡± He stresses. I laugh in disbelief.

    Wow, now he''s definitely talking a load of BS!

    ¡°Ha, ha, laugh it up! Man, it''s true! I can prove it!¡±

    He rushes over then grabs my left hand and holds it tightly, like we were about to arm wrestle.

    I finally manage to lift my head. I gasp when I don''t feel sleepy or spaced out at all!

    I send him a wide-eyed stare, then look at our hands.

    It was like our veins were glowing a deep blue, pulsing with each heartbeat.

    Whoa! That is NOT normal!

    ¡°This is called Pulseless. You can''t travel to the other dimension without doing this. The reason you pass out is because you''ve never done this with someone.¡± He states, leaving me speechless.

    Another dimension¡­? This is getting beyond insane¡­

    Suddenly, someone pounds their fists against the front door, scaring the life out of me. Dennis breathes a sigh of relief, releases my hand, then he rushes over to open it. ¡°That should be Eve. Don''t panic, she can be alright sometimes.¡±

    Sometimes!? Who the hell is he letting into MY home!?

    He pulls the door open, and a blonde haired lady marches inside. She had a lot of makeup on, and is smothered in tattoos, and wearing a leather outfit, like she''s cosplaying as Catwoman or something.

    She looks down her nose at me, eyeing my wheelchair with disgust. I narrow my eyes at her.

    I don''t like her already.

    ¡°What''s with the chair?¡± She spits as she kicks the wheel.

    Dennis rolls his eyes. ¡°The chair is ¡®cause of the Fazing out. You know, like I had?¡±

    She shrugs carelessly then begins to question me. ¡°So, wheelchair boy, how long you been Fazing out?¡± She questions, deeply offending me.

    Wheelchair boy? Does she have any manners at all!?

    ¡°I don''t know what that means, and my name is Arthur.¡± I snap, quite bravely.

    Wow, that''s so unlike me, but nothing that''s happening right now is normal!

    She just rolls her eyes at me and gestures towards the hallway to the bedrooms. ¡°Okay, Arthur, pack some things, then.¡±

    I furrow my brows, completely confused. Dennis raises an eyebrow at her. ¡°He has got a mum, you know, we can''t just cart him off.¡± He states, escalating my panic.

    Cart me off!? Do they plan on taking me somewhere!?

    ¡°No way. Sorry, Dennis, but this is crazy, and I''m not going anywhere.¡± I stress then begin to push myself towards the front door to lead them out. Sadly, that nasty girl Eve has other ideas.

    She yanks at the handles on the back of my chair, pulling me back. I gasp in horror.

    What is wrong with her!?

    ¡°What is your problem!? And who are you anyway!?¡± I demand.

    She kisses her teeth, annoying me, then crosses her arms. ¡°Eve, commander of Disruled, a rogue group of Surfers. If you don¡¯t want to get on my bad side, I¡¯d go pack some things to join us.¡±

    Gobsmacked, I take a while to respond as my mind runs wild.

    What!? I''m not going anywhere with this insane woman! She''s a gang leader by the sounds of it!

    ¡°I''m not joining your gang. Can you please leave?¡± I say awkwardly.

    She laughs at me then shakes her head. Dennis sighs. ¡°It''s not a gang, Arthur, trust me, you won''t regret joining. We''re a big family, we all look out for each other and do some work, which means you get paid a lotta dough.¡± He pleads.

    I laugh very nervously. ¡°You''re describing a gang. Look, I have no idea about what the hell is going on right now, and my mum will be home any second now, so you better leave.¡± I threaten, trying to sound confident.

    Yeah, Mum isn''t coming home any time soon, but they don''t know that! What other choices do I have to get them to leave!?

    Eve laughs harder at my weak attempt. ¡°Really? Your human mum will kick our superhero asses out of here?¡± She remarks.

    She''s got a point¡­ Even though I still find it hard to believe¡­

    Suddenly, at that moment, a miracle began! I spot Mum walking up the pathway, and hastily point in her direction.

    "Look, you better run." I warn.

    She rolls her eyes for the hundredth time. "Keep an eye on him, Dennis, keep me updated." She orders then disappears into thin air, leaving me stunned.

    Whoa! How the hell!? How!?

    I send Dennis my baffled look, he shrugs with a chuckle. "Crazy shit, right?"

    I shake my head in disbelief.

    Just a bit¡­ Did I fall asleep earlier? Am I dreaming this crazy crap?

    Mum enters in a state. That''s when I realise the door is still wide open. I quickly push myself into her view, she breathes a massive sigh of relief, holding her hand to her heart.

    "Arthur! You nearly gave me a heart attack!" She gasps.

    "I''m so sorry! I didn''t realise it was still open." I stress, waving my hands in panic.

    With her initial shock passing, her eyes narrow towards me. "Why was it open in the first place!? I''ve told you before, it''s not safe for you to answer the door!" She exclaims in anger. I gulp, unsure of how to respond.

    I can hardly tell her what actually happened¡­ This is ridiculous.

    Dennis hastily shuffles into view, sending Mum a nervous wave. Extremely taken aback, she looks at him with wide eyes. "Sorry about that, Miss Taylor, I left it open. Silly me." He forces a not so confident grin.

    Mum is clearly still baffled. "Dennis?" She then looks back over at me, rudely pointing at him. "Isn''t he the one who called you a retard?" She demands.

    I wince from hearing that word, quickly shaking my head. "No, that was Daniel. Dennis is the one I had a falling out with a year ago. He called me apologising and asked to come over." I tell her.

    Not convinced, Mum stares him down. This doesn''t really bother Dennis, he really can''t read the room, as I remember.

    "I know you''re desperate for a friend, Arthur, but that doesn''t mean you just trust him again." She scolds.

    My cheeks flush from the humiliation. "Mum." I complain. "He''s not Daniel, trust me, I wouldn''t want to be anywhere near him. Dennis is just trying to be nice and admit what he said was wrong, which is a hell of a lot more than any other person has done."

    Dennis'' brow raises. He seems pleasantly surprised to hear that.

    Mum''s lips press into a thin line. She examines my expression closely before huffing and grabbing her coat she must have left behind. "I need to get back to work, so you." She wags her finger at Dennis. "Don''t say anything to upset my little boy, otherwise you''ll regret it." She seethes before turning on her heel to leave, slamming the door behind her.

    Oh, my god, she didn''t just say that!

    I facepalm hard. Dennis laughs his head off, placing a hand on my shoulder. "It''s alright, man, mums are embarrassing."

    He''s not wrong there.

    "You''ve got a hell of a lot of explaining to do. So you better start now." I practically order. He continues to chuckle and makes himself comfortable on the sofa.

    I raise a brow and push myself next to the chair. "Make yourself at home." I quip, gesturing at his feet up on the coffee table and his slouched back.

    He rolls his eyes, begrudgingly removing his feet from the table with a pout. "So, what do you wanna ask first?"

    "What did you call your kind?" I ask, still in utter disbelief that I was asking such a thing.

    "Our kind." He corrects, causing my eyes to widen.

    Why didn''t I even consider that? What he was saying before, I can''t have been taking it in properly. Granted, it is ridiculous.

    I must''ve been staring into space, because the sound of a click brings me back to reality.

    Huh, what?

    I look up to find Dennis standing over me, undoing the strap around my shoulders and gently moving my arms out of them.

    I stare at him with a mix of awe and confusion. And even more so when he scoops me up into his arms and sits me on the comfy sofa.

    Whoa¡­

    He notices me staring and flexes his non-existent muscles, causing me to burst into a fit of laughter. He pouts as I struggle to hold in my natural laugh. "I''m strong! Lifting you just proved it!" He complains. My eyes widen, and my natural laugh slips its way out.

    "I''m not fat, nowhere near!" I cry, not even offended. This is hilarious, I can''t remember the last time I was this happy.

    He groans dramatically, falling onto the sofa beside me. With a cheeky smirk, I ruffle his gelled hair to wind him up, only to bother myself.

    Ew! It feels awful!

    I stare at my hand in disgust, and he takes this opportunity to turn the tables and laugh at me. "Nice try. It''s clearly booby trapped." He taunts, jumping up from his seat to pass me a tissue from the TV stand to wipe my hand.

    I gladly reach out to take the tissue, which he doesn¡¯t allow. He wipes my hand himself then stands to bin it. A blush invades my cheeks.

    "Next question?" He urges as he takes his seat back next to me.

    "I don''t think you answered the first one." I pointed out.

    Realisation hit his face. "Ah, yeah, we''re called Surfers. We can travel between this dimension, and the one our kind is from, which is called the Paramension. Sick, right? We surf the dimensions." He explains proudly.

    Whoa¡­

    "What does Fazing out mean? And what was that arm wrestling thing we did again?"

    "Fazing out is when you''ve been in the human dimension too long. Once you hit seventeen, you gain the ability to Surf, so that''s why human raised one''s like us start Fazing out. It''s actually illegal in Paramension law to give birth here and for the child to be raised here. Controlling bastards haven''t got ties in every little thing in this dimension." He rolls his eyes as I struggle to take it all in.

    Okay, this must be real, my imagination isn''t anywhere near good to think this shit up. But how is it? If all he''s saying is true, does that mean Mum isn''t my biological one? Or does it mean she is, and is a Surfer, too?

    "I don''t know how you would know, but¡­" I sigh before continuing. "Is Mum a Surfer?"

    He places a comforting hand on my shoulder, his lips pursed. "No, man, otherwise she''d either be Fazing out, or leaving you for months on end. Only people incredibly high on the ladder can come and go as they please. Others have to earn permits and they get a maximum of a week''s stay every six months."

    Whoa, that''s insane¡­

    I grew quiet. All the other questions I want to ask swirl around in my head, though all I can think about is who is my mum then?

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, this is a lot to spring onto you. Should I come back tomorrow?¡± He suggests softly, breaking me out of my thoughts.

    I quickly shake my head. The last thing I want is to be alone right now.

    With a sad nod in return, he wound his arm around my shoulders and gently drew me to his chest. My eyes widen a little, releasing the tears I didn¡¯t even feel welling up.

    I¡¯ve never been so close to Dennis before¡­ He¡¯s always been caring, which is why it was so hard when he ended our friendship, especially in the way he did it.

    I warily wrap my arm around his waist to hug him, hoping he won¡¯t mind. To my surprise, he shifts closer and trails the back of his free hand down my cheek, wiping my tears. My face burns brightly in embarrassment. I cry into his chest, feeling safe in his arms.

 Meet The Paramension

    We stay cuddling for a while, until a buzzing phone breaks our peaceful silence. I tear away from Dennis slightly so he can reach into his pocket for it.

    With a frustrated groan, he checks the caller then quickly swipes to answer. ¡°Hey, Greg, what¡¯s up?¡±

    I could hear the other end of the call. ¡°Denny, word is we¡¯ve got a new member.¡± Greg says excitedly.

    My eyes widen slightly.

    I sure hope he doesn¡¯t mean me! I haven¡¯t agreed to any of this!

    Dennis huffs, holding the phone away from his ear and putting him on speaker since I could hear him anyway. ¡°First of all, my name is not Denny-¡°

    Greg chuckles then cuts him off. ¡°Aw, so cute, only mummy allowed to call you that?¡± He teases.

    Dennis glares at his phone then gestures to me. ¡°Can you hear this shit I have to deal with? Just cause I¡¯m the ¡®baby¡¯ of the group.¡± He groans. I force a smile in response.

    This is funny and all, but I really need more questions answering.

    Greg mockingly gasps. ¡°What a foul mouth! You-¡°

    ¡°Is the only reason for this call to piss me off?¡± Dennis butts in, clearly annoyed.

    ¡°I wanna talk to the new kid. You¡¯re with him, right?¡±

    Dennis takes one look at my displeased expression then sighs. ¡°He doesn¡¯t want to talk, this is all new to him. I still have a hell of a lot of explaining to do, so bye?¡±

    ¡°But!¡±

    Beep. Dennis had hung up, thank god for that.

    ¡°Sorry about him, he¡¯s harmless really. Like an overexcited puppy.¡± He states then sets his phone on the coffee table.

    I nod slowly, ready to question further, when he completely distracts me by placing a warm hand on my thigh. ¡°I¡¯m starving, wanna grab some Burger Freeze? My treat.¡±

    Taken aback by his suggestion, I hesitate.

    I¡¯d love that, but... I¡¯m not allowed to leave the house without Mum or someone she trusts. And I¡¯m sure Dennis is not on that list by the way she spoke to him earlier.

    ¡°I don¡¯t mind your chair if that¡¯s what you¡¯re worried about.¡± He tries to assure me.

    I let out a sigh. ¡°I¡¯m glad, but... I don¡¯t think Mum will be very pleased.¡±

    He furrows his brows. ¡°Man, you¡¯re what? Nineteen? She can¡¯t keep you here, you¡¯ll be safe with me more than anyone. Being a Surfer, and all that jazz.¡±

    He¡¯s right, but he doesn¡¯t have to deal with her afterwards!

    ¡°Can¡¯t we just order in?¡± I whine.

    He raises a brow. ¡°You could do with some fresh air, c¡¯mon, Arthur, don¡¯t be such a stress head.¡±

    Without warning, he scooped me up into his arms and sat me back in my wheelchair. I send him an annoyed look as he secures the strap around my chest. He just grins then turns to pocket his phone.

    ¡°With my help, you won¡¯t need that chair for much longer.¡±

    My jaw drops. He turns to face me again, examines my expression then frowns. ¡°What? I can.¡± He argues.

    He drops a bombshell like that then expects me to believe it!?

    ¡°You can stop my passing out and my pain?¡± I urge, shaking my head in disbelief. ¡°You do realise how ridiculous you sound, and how much that can affect me, right?¡±

    With his lips pursed, he locks my arm into a wrestling position again. ¡°Remember, this is called Pulseless, this is how you travel to the Paramension. Just by starting the process, you feel more awake, right?¡±

    He¡¯s somehow right, I instantly feel more alert, and even weirder¡­ the horrible pain which always plagues my feet grows numb.

    I stared at our colourful veins, pulsing with each heartbeat. Despite everything he''s told me, along with this inhuman proof, I''m still in utter disbelief. The longer he held on, the better I felt. It''s extraordinary.

    "You''d need to spend at least a few hours in the Paramension to be able to have a day Faze free. Will you do that with me?¡± He asks in a serious tone, very unlike him.

    Um¡­ Sounds scary, if I''m being honest! How is all this happening!?

    ¡°Is the time zone the same? Like, Mum will be back around nine.¡± I mutter.

    He checks his watch and shrugs. ¡°Gives us eight hours, then. C¡¯mon, Arthur, it¡¯s horrible seeing you this way. So, why suffer it yourself when it can go away?¡± He stresses with tears in his eyes.

    As soon as my eyes meet his, mine also grow teary.

    The way he¡¯s acting, it¡¯s so different to the time we had our fight. He¡¯s genuinely upset seeing me this way, I can tell, and he doesn¡¯t usually show these emotions unless he¡¯s really concerned¡­

    ¡°How do we carry it on to travel there?¡± I ask, my voice shaky.

    With a weak grin on his lips, he unclips the restricting strap and lifts me to my feet with his free hand, never breaking the lock of our hands. I stumble at first, my legs quivering beneath me like they¡¯re about to give way. I can¡¯t explain the odd sensation rushing through my feet, which I¡¯ve barely stood on for so long. Not to mention the relief of no pain, which is definitely indescribable in measure. I look up at Dennis with pure joy, tears flowing freely down my cheeks, now grinning myself.

    He studies me proudly. ¡°Ready?¡± I nod without hesitation, surprising myself. His grip tightens and he locks eyes with me. ¡°Other hand.¡± I hand it to him, my strength still growing. He clutches it tight and crosses our arms over, then¡­ FLASH! A blinding light stuns me, I squeeze my eyes shut to shield them.

    The strangest feeling courses through my entire being, it was almost like pins and needles attacking my nervous system. I wince, but keep my eyes firmly shut. That is until a huge force suckerpunches me, making me choke and gasp for air. My eyelids flew open, as they did, my jaw drops at the completely new environment around us.

    Oh, my god¡­ If any part of me still doubted all of this, this is a huge reality check. Ha, reality check, funny choice of words, but I¡¯m right.

    Gobsmacked, I scan the electric blue leafed trees in awe, as well as the neon pink grass, freshly cut, and the seemingly endless rows of high rise buildings ahead. All the exteriors seem to be glass panels, which the bright rays of a baby blue sun reflect against.

    Whoa¡­ This is like something straight out of a sci-fi movie!

    I jump up and down in excitement as my breath finally regulates itself. Without warning, Dennis suddenly drags me behind a blue hedge. ¡°Shit.¡± He curses, face palming.

    ¡°What?¡± I ask curiously.

    He releases both of my hands and scopes the area around our spot nervously before answering. ¡°We weren¡¯t supposed to appear out in the open. Damn police have interfered with the Surfing balance again to expose us rogues.¡±

    My eyes widen with fear. ¡°What? I dunno what a Surfing balance is, but we¡¯re in trouble with the police? How?¡± I gasp when I realise what him and Eve had said. ¡°You¡¯re a gang, so you¡¯re obviously in trouble with them. Oh, god¡­¡±

    Panic builds up inside me at an alarming rate.

    Why did I agree to come again? Why did that key information leave my brain!?

    Dennis places a hand on my shoulder. ¡°Man, chill. We¡¯re not a gang that hurt people and shit. It¡¯s the police that are seriously corrupt. Hell, the whole dimension is. Pretty much every Surfer here is monitored and has no privacy, let alone freedom. Us rogues fight to save others, to try to make this dimension a decent place.¡± He stresses.

    I nod very slowly, trying to comprehend that.

    Lines up with the other stuff he told me, I guess.

    ¡°Then why did you bring me here if it¡¯s not safe for us?¡± I question.

    He purses his lips. ¡°I honestly didn¡¯t realise we would turn up here. This is like a twenty minute walk from the hideout.¡± He huffs and hides his face in his hands. ¡°Fuck, I¡¯m gonna have to call Greg to pick us up.¡± He discreetly reaches for his phone, then swears again. ¡°He tried to warn us. Ugh, he could¡¯ve opened the call with that.¡±

    Oh¡­ This is bad, isn¡¯t it?

    My thoughts were confirmed when I spotted three men dressed head to toe in a black uniform, armed with massive guns I do NOT want to get shot by. They were standing roughly thirty metres away, and thankfully haven¡¯t spotted us¡­ Yet.

    I nudge Dennis with my elbow and point a shaky finger in their direction. He lifts his head and his eyes immediately widen. ¡°Shit. Arthur, you need to follow my lead, okay?¡±

    Without an answer, he yanks me to my feet as he stands, pocketing his phone, and tells me to just walk naturally down the street in the opposite direction of the men. That is a challenge in itself. I haven¡¯t walked in so long, I doubt I¡¯ll look natural. Even worse, I peek down at my feet and realise I¡¯m not wearing shoes. The pain always prevented me from being able to wear them, but boy, am I gonna stick out like a sore thumb?

    I quietly point this out to Dennis, clinging onto his arm to steady my steps. He takes one look at my feet then takes a sharp right, pulling me into what appears to be their equivalent of Starbucks. We stand in the short line, and I pray in my head no one notices how out of place I am. Thankfully, the place isn¡¯t too crowded. As we reach the counter, Dennis orders me a hot chocolate and a serving of mac and cheese, which is odd to have in a coffee shop. Anyway, after handing the lady currency that didn¡¯t seem too different to British currency without close examination, she told us to take a seat and she would bring it over. Dennis escorts me to a booth in the corner and whispers in my ear. ¡°I¡¯ll go get you some shoes, you just sit here and eat, don¡¯t engage with anyone, just wait for me to come back.¡±

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    I send him a wide-eyed look. ¡°You¡¯re just gonna leave me?¡± I gasp.

    He rolls his eyes. ¡°You¡¯ll be safe in here. You won¡¯t Faze out anymore, remember? So, I won¡¯t be long. Shoe size?¡±

    I purse my lips and mutter eight. He nods, ruffles my hair then leaves, leaving me completely alone in a dimension which I haven¡¯t got hardly any information about.

    Argh, I can¡¯t believe he¡¯s just left me here!

    I hold my head in my hands, sighing sadly, when I hear someone clear their throat. I quickly look up to find the lady with my order. I force a smile and thank her as she places it in front of me. With a friendly smile in return, she turns on her heels and rushes to greet the next customer.

    The mac and cheese is steaming hot, as is the hot chocolate. I busy myself by grabbing what appeared to be the local paper which must¡¯ve been left behind by someone.

    Huh, ParaExpress, the main headline is about the police commissioner of the dimension, Alan Williams. He¡¯d made a statement about the recent data breach of the ParaNetwork and assured everyone no personal data was leaked, and they stopped the rogue¡¯s operation within mere minutes.

    Must be what they call their internet or something like that, the ParaNetwork, I mean.

    I curiously look through the other pages to try and grasp an understanding of it while Dennis is gone, occasionally sipping at my hot chocolate, which is the best I¡¯ve ever tasted.

    ¡°You must be incredibly bored if you find that interesting.¡± Some guy says, and I¡¯m pretty sure he¡¯s talking to me.

    With a gulp, I look up from the paper to find him towering over my small, sitting frame. His grey eyes study me, and he strokes his stubbled chin with a smirk playing on his lips. I shrug in response and look back at the paper, trying to hide my nerves.

    Please take the hint and walk away! If I speak to him, like Dennis said not to, I¡¯m gonna expose myself.

    A deep chuckle escapes his throat. Nervously, I glance up to find him sliding into the seat of the booth opposite me, a crooked grin now replacing the tedious smirk.

    Great, he¡¯s not leaving. Oh, god¡­

    "I saw the guy you walked in with, why would he leave such a handsome man such as yourself to sit alone?"

    My eyes nearly pop out of my head.

    Is he flirting with me!? What the hell!?

    Speechless, I couldn''t answer him even if I wanted to. I look up at him, and he has a cheeky grin plastered onto his face. "Ah, now I''ve caught your attention. Care to tell me your name?" He rests his elbow on the table then leans his head in his hand, studying my uncomfortable self. Hell, uncomfortable is an understatement.

    "Sorry, I''m not into guys." I try to say confidently, yet I can''t even look him in the eye.

    His grin somehow widens and he laughs harder. "Oh, is that so? Your boyfriend is going to have a shock." He chuckles again as I completely fail to hide my blushing cheeks. "Can I get you another drink?" He offers, gesturing at my empty glass.

    I shake my head. "No, thank you." I dig into the mac and cheese, seriously hoping he''d take the hint now.

    "I''m Phillip, by the way." He introduces himself, I inwardly groan.

    Ugh¡­ He''s not leaving, is he!?

    "My boyfriend will be back soon." I say to make him leave.

    He doesn''t even budge. "Dennis, right? I''ve heard of him." My eyes widen, and he lowers his voice. "He works for Eve as a part of Disruled. Not a good rogue group, if you ask me."

    Crap, he knows everything without me even saying a word! How the hell!?

    "I''ve tried being polite." I state, gulping back my nerves. "Please leave me alone."

    An amused smirk still plays on his lips. "You''re a newbie to this, right? Not chipped or registered?" I blank him, hiding myself back behind the newspaper. "With the right training, you''d fit perfectly with my lot."

    Wow. No, no, no!

    "I just wanna go home." I grumble under my breath.

    He tugs the newspaper down to look me in the eye. "I''ll let you come and go as you please once you''re settled in. I pay far better than Disruled, plus I rather fancy the look of you. My partners have been known to be spoilt rotten." He flirts. My face practically bursts into flames.

    Whoa! He''s a part of a rogue gang, too! And I have NEVER been flirted with before, let alone so full on!

    He grins from ear to ear, examining my embarrassed state. "So adorable¡­ Your boyfriend doesn''t treat you like this, does he?" He continues to flirt then clicks his fingers in the air. A server immediately runs to his rude action, readying a notepad.

    ¡°Yes, sir?¡± She asks happily.

    Phillip looks me in the eyes and replies. ¡°A muffin for the handsome lad.¡± He winks, and I immediately escape his gaze by bowing my head. I grip the bottom of my seat anxiously.

    C¡¯mon, Dennis! Hurry the hell up!

    ¡°Of course, sir, I¡¯ll bring it right over.¡± The server chirps then hurries away.

    ¡°I have a feeling you don¡¯t get out much.¡± Phillip guesses rightly then chuckles. ¡°The lack of shoes is a big indicator.¡±

    I bite my bottom lip nervously.

    Crap, he noticed. Do I run for it? But then I¡¯d risk other people noticing¡­

    ¡°Mine got ruined, my boyfriend is getting me a new pair, he should be back any minute now.¡± I say very unconvincingly.

    He cocks a brow. ¡°Oh, you¡¯re actually talking to me.¡± He clears his throat. ¡°Ruined how?¡± He sits up properly and folds his tattooed hands in front of him.

    He¡¯s got me there. How, Arthur, how!?

    I shift in my seat uncomfortably. Considering every excuse I can think of is pathetic and nowhere near plausible, I don¡¯t answer.

    The server comes back with a triple chocolate muffin on a china plate and places it in front of me with a friendly smile. I force one back, and she clears my empty glass and finished plate of mac and cheese. ¡°Thank you.¡± I say as she walks to the next customer.

    I look back at Phillip, awkwardly pushing the muffin towards him. He purses his lips as his fingers drum against the edge of the table. The repeated pattern put me more on edge than I already was. ¡°If your so-called boyfriend is coming back soon, I guess I should hurry up and offer you a deal you can¡¯t refuse.¡±

    I pull a face, incredibly wary. ¡°And what¡¯s that?¡±

    His smirk reappears. ¡°It¡¯s simple, really. Instead of joining the shithole that is Disruled, join me-¡±

    I cut him off. ¡°I was never going to join them. I just want to go home.¡± I state sadly.

    A pout forms on his lips. ¡°I don¡¯t like being interrupted.¡± He also states, but with a dark tone.

    With a gulp, I slowly nod for him to continue. He inhales deeply before returning to his point. ¡°I want you to join me instead. I pay an amount almost as handsome as you. And all I¡¯d want you doing is occasional work that will never be out of your depth, especially early on, considering your ignorance of the Paramension.¡± He smiles warmly. ¡°I¡¯ll provide you with a safe place to stay, food and hot water, every necessity and more. All you¡¯ll have to do is accept my offer and sign over your loyalty to me.¡±

    I stare at him in a state of shock, struggling to take that in.

    I don¡¯t understand¡­ I really don¡¯t. It¡¯s like, due to my ignorance and absence of this place, I¡¯m a rogue magnet. Why is that?

    I fall silent, trying to think it over. He grows impatient. ¡°People like you come once in a yellow sun, I¡¯m not passing up this opportunity. So, what do you say?¡± He urges for an answer.

    Doesn¡¯t he mean once in a blue moon? Oh, for god¡¯s sake! HURRY UP, DENNIS!

    ¡°What if I say no?¡± I question, wary of the answer.

    He shrugs. ¡°Then Disruled will trick you into signing over your loyalty, pay you practically nothing, and send you on dangerous missions you¡¯re not ready for. Is that what you want?¡± He asks shortly.

    I laugh nervously. "Obviously not¡­"

    He nods sternly. "Then let''s go. I have a car waiting outside." He stands then offers me his hand.

    I stare at him in utter disbelief. "I''m not getting in a car with a complete stranger." I gasp.

    He lets out an exasperated sigh then leans close to me to whisper. "Do you want to make a scene and be confined to this world instead?"

    Again, obviously not¡­

    About to have a panic attack, my breathing takes a nosedive into the dangerous territory.

    "Arthur?" I finally hear Dennis'' voice, though it is laced with annoyance.

    Oh, now you decide to show up!

    I shoot to my feet as Phillip glares Dennis down. "He''s coming with me. If you''ve got a problem with that, go ahead and make a scene. The Surfing balance has been compromised, so prove you''re not an idiot, and let Arthur come with me." He threatens in a hushed tone.

    Dennis gulps and glances at me with a sorry look. His eyes then return to Phillip with a fake smile, holding out a bag which held a shoe box to him. "He''ll need these."

    I blink in shock, my jaw agape.

    He''s just gonna let him take me!? Do I not get a say in this at all!?

    Phillip scowls and pushes his gesture away. "No, I''ll get him a pair. Your taste is far, far away from mine."

    I look between the two of them, completely baffled.

    WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON!?

    Phillip grabs my hand then drags me out of the coffee shop. I look back, begging Dennis with my eyes to save me. He mouths to me. "Wait."

    My eyebrows furrow together in confusion.

    Wait? Wait for what!?

    It soon became clear as I spotted Eve charging our way as we left the coffee shop. Phillip notices her and rolls his eyes, pulling me to a stop with him. "Of course, I was wrong to think you''d let him go that easy." He sighs. "Name your price."

    Wha-!? He''s trying to buy me!?

    He lifts my jaw which had practically dropped to the floor and stares Eve down. She scoffs and crosses her arms under her breasts. "He''s not for sale, Reed. I know you treat your other men as objects, but he¡¯s not gonna be one of yours.¡± She spits then tilts her head to the side and nods at me. ¡°He¡¯s a liability to you, surely. How do you know we didn¡¯t plant him here for you to stumble across?¡±

    ¡°Because you¡¯re idiots. You just proved so by saying such a thing.¡± He quickly retorts with a roll of his eyes.

    Eve kisses her teeth and shakes her head. ¡°Just jog on. I¡¯m not scared to start playing dirty.¡± She threatens.

    Phillip laughs. I still stand there awkwardly with his iron grip on my hand. ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sure you¡¯re not. Word on the street is you¡¯re never off it, whore.¡±

    My eyes widen at his response. She just laughs it off with him. ¡°That¡¯s big talk for a guy who buys into the industry. Isn¡¯t that how you got your last ¡®boyfriend¡¯?¡± She uses air quotes. ¡°Is it true he slept with your mother?¡±

    My eyes widen even further than I thought possible. His grip on my hand is now close to crushing bones, I moan in pain.

    ¡°Keep digging your grave, Eve. Keep on.¡± He hisses.

    I barely notice through my pain that we¡¯re starting to draw attention to ourselves. They are quick to notice soon after me. ¡°Let¡¯s take this elsewhere.¡± Phillip states.

    Eve shrugs carelessly, not moving. ¡°Nope. Here is fine. Got a problem? Drop the poor boy¡¯s hand and leave.¡±

    With a huff, he finally releases my hand, letting me sigh in relief. I wince as I lift my hand into the other.

    Damn, he is strong¡­

    "This isn''t over." Phillip warns Eve.

    She smirks and mockingly waves goodbye as he storms into his waiting car. It soon zooms away.

    Before I can react, Eve grabs my arm and drags me back into the coffee shop where Dennis sat in the booth waiting. He sends me an apologetic look and pats the seat next to him. I begrudgingly sit there, my head hung low.

    "You''re lucky we were drawing attention, otherwise newbie here would''ve been his." Eve hisses quietly, sitting the other side of Dennis.

    Dennis doesn''t dare glare back at her livid expression and lowers his head also. "Last thing I wanted was for Arthur to fall into his grubby hands." He bravely argues.

    Eve scoffs. "Then you should''ve waited for me to get here, then bought the trainers."

    They bicker amongst each other as I sit here trying to calm my breathing still.

    I just want to go home¡­

    "Arthur¡­" Dennis says gently, dragging me away from my thoughts.

    I look up at him with tears lacing my eyes. "Please take me home¡­" I beg.

    His lips purse, which already hints to me that there''s not much chance of that. "The Surfing balance is fucked right now, which means none of us can go anywhere for at least a week."

    A WEEK!?

    I struggle to maintain my composure, which they both notice and immediately take different approaches. Dennis gently rubs my shoulder and tries to comfort me, whilst Eve sends me daggers.

    "Should''ve just let him take the big baby." She spits.

    My shakes worsen, and Dennis tells me in panic to breathe. Before I know it, I fall far too deep into the anxiety pit.

 Disruled

    Somehow, Dennis and Eve push trainers onto my feet and get me in a car without raising too much suspicion. I still haven''t fully recovered from my panic attack. My eyes are swollen and sore, as is my throat from crying.

    I just can''t accept my fate here. A whole week, possibly more, away from my home that I''ve barely left for years. Away from my mum, who is worried sick right now. Probably cursing Dennis, and losing it over trusting him. She''s not the only one¡­

    "Hey, Arthur, I just contacted Mel, a member who is still in the Normension right now, she''s gonna look after your mum as a favour to me." Dennis lets me know gently. I blank him.

    Even though I appreciate the thought a lot, he''s done more than pissed me off. He doesn''t deserve a thank you.

    "You could at least thank him, he didn''t have to do that." Eve comments bitterly.

    I send her the most frightening glare I can muster. "Says the bitch with no manners?" I snap without thinking.

    I know I''d fucked up, not just by her deathly look, but also by the round of gasps then stony silence.

    "Remind me why I didn''t let Reed take him." She seethes after an insufferable silence.

    It''s so tempting to speak back, but I''m already on incredibly thin ice. I am stuck with this lot after all, I need to play nice.

    "Because we''re low on members?" Gregory guesses from the driving seat.

    She scowls. "It was rhetorical, dickhead." She shakes her head in disbelief then glares out of the window to the poor passersby.

    "Rhetorical¡­" Gregory mumbles under his breath, clearly puzzled.

    Dennis places a hand on my bouncing knee. It bounces on its own when I''m nervous. Somehow, his hand soothes it. "I really am sorry, Arthur." He says sincerely.

    As much as I want to stay mad at him and scream at the top of my lungs, I can''t. Not only would it get me kicked out of a moving car by Eve, it would also ruin our friendship.

    I blush as I think back on what Phillip said, or as they keep calling him, Reed.

    I called Dennis my boyfriend, and yeah, I was flustered and embarrassed and trying to escape the situation, but my thoughts on it¡­ Why did it sound so right? You know, calling him my boyfriend?

    I assume my blush grows an even darker shade and quickly turn my head so it''s less visible.

    That''s the last thing I need to be thinking about right now. All those novels that get too tied up with love and/or lust, when this shit like this is happening¡­ They were sent back to the library. Immediately.

    "So, what''s going to happen?" I bravely speak up.

    Dennis opens his mouth to answer me, but Eve quickly butts in. "I''m gonna let Reed take you so I don''t have to deal with your shit. Plus, he''ll bid so damn high for you, we''ll be able to afford a new hideout!" She exclaims.

    I grind my teeth together. "You can''t sell me off, I''m not an object." I state as calmly as possible. Again, I don''t fancy being kicked out of a moving car.

    "To him you are practically a living pawn. All his lot are. I wonder if I can squeeze a couple mil outta him." She wonders aloud with a wicked smirk.

    I scowl, biting down hard on my bottom lip to prevent myself from screaming.

    WHAT IS HER ISSUE!?

    "Um, guys¡­" Gregory breathes as slows his speed.

    Eve rolls her eyes and leans back in her seat, still not wearing a seatbelt. She should really wear one¡­ Well, nevermind. "What, Greg?" She groans.

    He lets out a nervous chuckle. "Um¡­ I think we''re being followed¡­" He says, his voice barely audible.

    My eyes widen in horror, whereas the other two aren''t fazed. "You and your paranoia, Greg, honestly. Just take a left here, and see if they follow." Eve advises with a wave of her hand.

    "But that''s a one way street." Greg protests, provoking a giggle from Eve and Dennis.

    "All the illegal shit we do, and you''re worried about that!?" Dennis exclaims.

    All this really didn''t help my nerves. What kinda stuff does this gang get up to¡­?

    With a sigh, Greg begrudgingly takes a sharp turn down the one way street. And sure enough, the car behind follows, almost causing an accident in doing so.

    Well, that''s not a good sign!

    My panic immediately builds up again. It''s really strange not passing out when I get this feeling.

    "Oh, my fucking god!" Greg squeals, nearly losing control of the car.

    Eve slaps him round the back of his head with scowl and turns to look back at the car following. I continue to hyperventilate in pure panic. "For fuck sake, it''s Rosie. Pull over, Greg." She growls.

    Too scared to disobey, Greg follows her orders. Dennis grabs my hand and squeezes it assuringly as Eve bolts out the car. It doesn''t help in the slightest.

    "Hey, chill. It''s just her crazy ass sister." He continues to try and assure me. It would''ve helped a little if he hadn''t added that she was ''crazy''.

    "Why did she have to follow us like that?" Greg whines, pretty much headbutting the steering wheel, then squealing when he hits the horn in doing so. I could¡¯ve laughed at the comical view if I wasn''t in this insane position right now.

    ¡°How do you expect me to chill?¡± I grumble.

    Dennis lets out an exasperated sigh, leaning his head back on the headrest. "I know, stupid thing to say¡­" He mutters under his breath.

    "YOU ARE NOT THE BOSS OF ME!" Some lady screams at the top of her lungs. I assume it''s the ''crazy ass sister''.

    "THEN ACT LIKE A FUCKING ADULT FOR ONCE!" Eve yells back.

    They scream back and forth, streaming endless profanities at each other. Dennis eventually speaks again, directing my attention back to him. "I''ve missed you, you know." He says weakly, taking me aback a little.

    Since when does he get emotional like this?

    He sighs then bows his head, staring down at his fidgeting hands. "And I know I haven''t started on the greatest of terms, considering you''re stuck here for the time being. It''s scary, I totally get that¡­" His voice trails off and he sighs again. His eyes are distant; guilt ridden.

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    I purse my lips and place a trembling hand on his knee. He doesn''t look up, or even acknowledge its existence. This worries me further.

    He looks like how I imagined myself looking when I was about to doze off. Or Faze out, as he called it.

    "Dennis?" I urge for a reply, my voice weak.

    He still doesn''t respond, still staring deep into space. I find that my breathing pattern is falling into dangerous territory now, and tap Greg''s shoulder furiously.

    "Is this normal?" I question breathlessly.

    He shifts in his seat to look around and observe Dennis. His eyes widen at the sight, not filling me with confidence.

    "Put his seatbelt back on." He orders then immediately starts the car. I hurry to do as I''m told then grab Dennis'' hand in support. Tears now stream down my face.

    Please be okay¡­

    Greg throws the shifter into reverse and stamps on the accelerator, throwing us back into our seats.

    A little squeal escapes me, and Eve''s and her sister''s screams grow distant as he zooms down the road.

    "She''s gonna kill me for this." Greg nervously says. I would say he''s joking, but with this short amount of time I''ve known her, I know better.

    "Is he going to be okay? Why is this happening?" I cry.

    Greg doesn''t answer me. Suddenly, he takes a sharp turn down an alleyway and shuts off the engine. "Quick, we need to get him inside."

    I struggle to undo our seatbelts as Greg leaps out the car. I scramble to get out of the car as Greg lifts a limp Dennis into his arms. I follow him like a scared puppy to a heavily bolted door.

    "Chelsea! Open the door!" Greg hollers as he kicks instead of knocks. Dennis is still completely out of it; staring into oblivion.

    We hear keys jingle then bolts sliding across the rusted metal, as well as a pissed off voice. "Calm your tits! I know the Surfing balance is fucked, but-" She cuts herself off to gasp as she swings the door open to see our situation. She jumps out of the way so Greg can run Dennis through, holding her hand to her heart. "Fucking hell¡­" She breathes then looks up at me. "You must be Denny''s mate."

    I nod shyly. "Yeah, Arthur. Nice to meet you." I greet awkwardly. Blinking back my tears for the hundredth time, I take a step closer to her. "Will he be okay?"

    Her expression softens and she nods slowly. "Yeah, this isn''t the first time, he Fazes out even after a short time in the Normension." She explains to me gently then pats my back. "Let''s head inside, you must be overwhelmed."

    That''s a huge understatement¡­

    She gestures for me to enter before her, so I comply. She follows me in soon after, bolting the door once slammed shut.

    The dark hallway holds a horrible stench, I try my hardest not to gag as she leads me through it.

    Wow, do they use this hall as the toilet or something? It smells that bad.

    The disgust must''ve been written all over my face, because she then says. "Sorry about the stench, you can blame me for that. The guys wouldn''t stop being childish pricks, so I stink bombed them."

    I almost laughed at the irony of that sentence. "A taste of their own medicine then?" I reply with a weak smile.

    She nods then abruptly stops on the spot and her arm oddly twitches. I look up, baffled, to find she''s winking as well. It all looks uncomfortable and unplanned.

    Before I can ask her if she''s okay, Greg rushes towards us and places a hand on her shoulder whilst wiping sweat from his brow. She starts making squeaking noises like a mouse. "Don''t worry, it''s just their condition. They have Tourette''s Syndrome."

    Two things about that statement confuse me further. I''ve never heard of that syndrome, plus- Oh, shit. I''ve been using their pronouns wrong. I feel bad.

    "Oh, okay. So, they''re okay then?"

    They both nod, and Chelsea gives me a smile, most likely grateful for my understanding.

    "Tics are a bitch. That''s what the noises and that are called by the way." They state with a little laugh.

    Huh, interesting. I''ll have to ask them more to help me understand later.

    I nod along with them, then turn to Gregory. "Is Dennis okay? Where is he?" I worry, peering behind him.

    He gives me a tight-lipped smile. "He''ll be fine. He really shouldn''t go back to the Normension, but Eve practically drove him there. I still don''t know what happened, but there was definitely a disagreement."

    That''s a relief¡­ Not surprised Eve did that, especially considering he was pleading on the phone to her about me. Feels like that was ages ago, but it''s literally the same day.

    Gregory''s phone buzzes, and he lifts it to view the screen. His eyes widen in horror.

    "Speak of the devil!" Chelsea shouts as their head leans into their shoulder then shoots back up. I assume they''re the tics they mentioned.

    Gregory mumbles an apology then zooms away to go pick her up, I assume.

    I feel so sorry for him, let''s hope he comes back in one piece.

    "Let''s check on Dennis." Chelsea proposes, tapping my back with their hand and leading the way.

    I still stumble along a little, considering I haven''t properly walked for god knows how long. I''m shocked I can do it as well as I can.

    "Marissa, I really don''t need bed rest." I hear Dennis complain as we grow closer.

    Thank god, he''s awake already!

    I now rush into the room I hear them in. Dennis and I both sigh in relief when our eyes fall on each other. "Are you okay?" We ask in unison. He chuckles a little at that.

    I nod slowly and answer first, scratching the back of my neck. "Yeah, as much as I can be. I''m more worried about you."

    His smile doesn''t reach his sad eyes. He still seems dazed. "I''ll be alright. Nothing to worry about." He dismisses with a wave of his hand.

    Chelsea rolls their eyes. "At least you''re not as dead as Greg''s gonna be. Left Eve on her own to help you, by the sounds of it."

    Dennis and Marissa wince at the mere mention. Sounds like they''ve experienced her wrath before.

    Marissa then adjusts her colourful headscarf before turning to me with a beaming grin. "Ah, so this is Arthur! What a handsome young man you are!" She exclaims then traps me in a warm hug.

    Huh, Dennis must talk about me a lot.

    I smile weakly in her embrace, even though she''s squeezing the life outta me.

    She must be the mother figure of the group, that seems really obvious to me. Though I hold back my tears yet again, as her warm hug mainly reminds me of Mum.

    She''s going to be so scared, worried sick, and that makes me feel so guilty.

    Dennis didn''t exactly drag me here, I hold a big part of the blame, too. Yes, I didn''t realise I''d be stuck here, but I should''ve been more wary.

    She pats my back gently, and I realise I''m squeezing her just as tight. With an embarrassed chuckle, I release her and step back. Her eyes hold deep sympathy.

    "Sorry." I mutter, shuffling my feet.

    "No worries, dear." She consoles. She then turns back to Dennis, wagging her finger at him as he attempts to leave the bed. "I don''t think so! We haven''t seen you for weeks, you owe us an explanation, young man." She demands in a much more frightening tone.

    He gulps, carefully sitting back and hugging himself. "Eve threw me out¡­" He begins to say, but doesn''t continue.

    Marissa and Chelsea roll their eyes. "Obviously. But why? I know she''s a nutter who doesn''t need a reason, but c''mon, you must have an idea." Chelsea pushes.

    His bottom lip trembles as he struggles to hold back his tears. Mine don''t need much convincing to fall, and I stand at his bedside, offering him my hand.

    With a shaky breath, he warily reaches for it then clasps it tightly. He squeezes his eyes shut. "You know when the ParaPigs tried to raid us a few months back at the old place?"

    Obviously I have no clue, but recognition lit both Marissa''s and Chelsea''s eyes.

    "Obviously. You nearly burnt to a crisp, scared the absolute shit out of us!" Chelsea exclaims, their twitching returning.

    My eyes widen in horror.

    Burnt to a crisp!?

    "Language." Marissa scolds them then locks eyes with Dennis. "What does that have to do with it? Like you said, that was months back. And none of that was our fault."

    Dennis chokes a sob, and I squeeze his hand tighter. "The head ParaPigs found us¡­" He hiccuped before struggling to continue. "Eve heard him offer me a position to be one of them, to snitch on you all. I obviously refused, but¡­" His voice trails off as he stares into space again.

    No¡­ Not again¡­ I don''t even know what he''s talking about exactly, but I''m scared shitless.

    Is this seriously what he''s been going through since our argument? I thought I had it bad¡­

    Chelsea stumbles and falls to the ground in hysterics, their twitching turning into violent thrashing about.

    Marissa runs to their side, I assume to try and stop them from hitting themself.

    I stay glued to Dennis, trying my hardest to calm my tremors and be there for him when he comes out of it.

    Though many things still weigh heavy on my mind, all my anxiety screams at me is¡­

    What have I let myself in for?

 Reed it and weep

    It''s been a little while since Chelsea''s ''tic attack'', as they put it. They''re recovering okay, but Dennis on the other hand is not saying another word on the subject of Eve kicking him out. I have a big feeling that''s due to her storming in like a raging bull not long after Chelsea fell to the floor.

    Jesus, the screams and Greg''s desperate attempts at calming her were insufferable to hear. Plus, she''s still giving me funny looks, some of them with a grin. So, that''s concerning.

    Right now, I''m sitting on a tattered sofa with my head resting in my hands whilst listening to Chelsea tell me more about this place; the Paramension.

    So far I''ve learned that this dimension has been ''round a hell of a lot longer than the Normension, which is the dimension I''ve been in all my life. The ParaPolice, better known by rogues as the ParaPigs, rule this place in more ways than one.

    Apparently, pretty much every Surfer is chipped from birth, then given a new chip each special birthday. This isn''t optional, the ParaPolice will literally turn up at your doorstep and pin you down to do it.

    Basically, anything you''re supposed to do as a Surfer according to their law, you''re made to do it one way or another. Which is pretty scary. Not only that, but you''re under surveillance 24/7. And I''m not just talking about cameras everywhere.

    At age five, you get a chip in your temples and left hand. This allows access to the ParaNetwork, but at this point, is restricted to the bare minimum and age appropriate. At ten, you get an update for more features, then at thirteen, then sixteen, and eighteen. Finally, you''re fully upgraded at age twenty-one.

    It''s proper Futurama shit. These chips allow you to basically see a smartphone that''s always connected to the Internet.

    "So no one pays for Internet access here?" I ask curiously.

    Chelsea nods. "Yup. You pay with your privacy, I swear. They can see anything and everything you search, play, text. Anything." They stress.

    "Wow¡­ It''s not too different from phones in the human world. But this is literally built into you for life?" I say in disbelief.

    Their right eye twitches and their hand shoots up in the air and waves as they answer me. "Funny you say that, actually. Ol'' smartphones are ParaGen''s horrible child to our chips. Well, I say ¡®our¡¯, but we¡¯re lucky enough to not be poisoned with the things.¡± They roll their eyes as I finally realise something.

    So, the reason I''m a rogue magnet is because I''ve never been chipped with anything like that? That makes so much sense now¡­

    ¡°I¡¯m guessing ParaGen is what the technology is called?¡±

    Greg slides into the seat beside me, holding a cold compress to his head. Our attention turns to him.

    ¡°Headache?¡± Chelsea guesses.

    He snorts. ¡°I wish. More like a migraine. I would¡¯ve preferred her to knock my lights out, maybe then I¡¯d actually get some peace and quiet.¡± He grumbles then winces. He transfers the compress to the other side of his head.

    And sure enough, speak of the devil¡­ In she walks, shooting me yet another suspicious grin.

    ¡°Hmm?¡± She hums not so innocently. No one dares to say anything, so she sighs in a dramatic manner and flicks her hair over her shoulder. "Arthur, a word." She commands and stares me down.

    Is that the first time she''s actually called me by my name? This can''t be good.

    I try to sit up straight and stare back, but god knows how weak and pathetic I must look. "What about?" I squeak then grimace.

    Way to go, Arthur. She must be so intimidated! Argh!

    She chuckles then shakes her head. "Not here. C''mon, actually use your legs for once." She remarks then turns on her heel.

    I huff and glare at her back as my shaky legs stand.

    She''s such a nasty bitch, honestly. I would have never been in a wheelchair if I didn''t honestly need it.

    Chelsea, Greg, Marissa and Dennis send me wide-eyed looks as I actually follow her.

    I know, I feel insane, too.

    "Eve, why are-" Dennis tries to intervene, rushing up to us.

    She shuts him down with one word and one deadly look. "Really?" She growls.

    His lips press into a thin line and he mumbles an apology, making his way back to his seat.

    With a gulp, I follow Eve into what appears to be some kind of office. It''s the only room I''ve seen so far here that is spotless and not a thing out of place.

    She kicks the door shut behind us then grins at me manically. "Guess what?" She prompts excitedly.

    I shuffle my feet. "Whatever it is, I''m sure I''m not gonna like it." I say nervously, rubbing my arm up and down.

    She laughs and hits my arm, not playfully, might I add. "Well, that depends. To be honest, I don''t know anyone who''d turn this down." She clears her throat then continues. "How would you like to live a life of luxury, barely lifting a finger, and get to come and go here as you please?"

    I scoff, causing her to raise a brow. "Sounds far too good to be true." I remark then frown as I realise what she''s talking about. "You''re not selling me to Reed."

    She puffs out her cheeks then exhales in a dramatic manner. "He''s offered quite a crazy amount, why would I say no?" She taunts.

    My eyes widen, not in shock, but more in realisation.

    Will she actually get away with that? No, no, I can''t let her. It''s so wrong on so many levels.

    "Don''t you want a new member instead of selling them off like an object?" I plead.

    She pouts, crossing her arms under her breasts. ¡°Who said like an object? Besides, I don¡¯t need a clueless streak of piss like you. By the sounds of things, he doesn¡¯t want you for your brains.¡± She wiggles her eyebrows at me then laughs hysterically at my horrified expression.

    WHAT!?

    ¡°I¡¯m not gonna be his sex worker!¡± I refuse with much more confidence than I yield.

    She simply frowns, putting me on edge.

    Why is she looking at me like that¡­?

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    Suddenly, loud bashing sounds at the door. "What the fuck are you saying to him!?" Dennis rages.

    Her glare burns my eyeballs for an agonising moment. "Tell him and I won''t hesitate to contact Reed." She seethes low enough for only me to hear.

    With a gulp, I nod furiously. The door then flies open and Dennis practically throws himself at me, checking me over. My eyes widen at this. "Are you okay? Why did you scream? What did she say?" He demands in a worried tone.

    Her eyes once again scald me as they both anticipate my answer. I place a shaky hand on Dennis'' shoulder and fake a smile. "It''s okay, I''m okay. Just letting out my frustration and anger, it seems to do wonders for Eve.¡± I nervously joke.

    He squints his eyes, giving me a suspicious look, whereas Eve nods with a grunt. ¡°Choosing to do that to me is a death wish.¡± She says coldly then shakes her head in disbelief.

    ¡°Anyway, tell everyone to dress nice and be ready for eleven pm sharp. Tonight, we''ll be heading to Para-Dice to scope info on why the pigs have mucked up the Surfing balance. Plus, as stupid as my sister is." She rolls her eyes and places her hands on her hips. "She''s got us a lead on the new Pit Mine. Word is there''s gonna be crap tons for the taking, and it''s gonna be mine."

    She smirks then gestures towards the door. "Go on, Denny, he''s fine. Can we continue our chat now?" She requests in a patronising tone.

    He purses his lips, his hands balling into fists at his sides, and very begrudgingly leaves me alone with the monster.

    As soon as that door shut, Eve was towering over me, smoke practically exuding from her ears. My body trembles in fear. "You''re so lucky he wants you in one piece." She seethed.

    I tried to step back to distance us a little, when I trip over my own feet and fall to the floor. I wince as the impact is mostly felt in my left elbow against the laminate ground.

    Ow¡­

    "Still getting used to your legs?" She quips, just staring down at me clutching my elbow. Of course she made no move to help.

    I sigh, bowing my head. "Why does he want me?" I beg, my tone growing weak. "I''m no one, and I''m definitely not good looking. Surely he doesn''t want someone that''s not chipped that badly?"

    She laughs, I raise my head when she actually offers me her hand. Warily, I take it in mine, and she helps me up, much to my surprise. I even widen my stance to ensure if she pushes me back on the ground, she''ll be less successful. "You''d be surprised how sought after chipless Surfers are. You''re much better off the radar, saves so many complications."

    That does make a lot of sense, considering what Chelsea told me.

    "Anyway." She moves on with a wave of her hand. Approaching the large desk, she reaches into one of the draws and fishes out a gun of sorts. My eyes widen as she holds it up and grins like the Joker. "Ready for your first tattoo?"

    I shake my head furiously, backing away. "No, no way. I never signed up for this!" I exclaim, my body trembling from head to toe.

    She rolls her eyes, tapping her forefinger on her lips, signalling for me to shut up. "It''s not permanent, I promise. Plus, it''ll protect you, so you''d be a moron not to have it."

    I intake a shaky breath, trying to lower my quivering voice. "How can a tattoo protect me¡­?"

    She takes a few steps closer and gestures at the sofa in the corner of the office. "Just lay down on there. Stop being such a pussy."

    She pushes me towards it, and I don''t lay down, I fall down onto the sofa. She climbs on top of me, no word of a lie, and pins my arms and legs with her knees and feet over them. I flail around as she lines the gun up to just above my collarbone on my neck.

    "Please, no!" I cry in hysterics. I squeeze my eyes shut, awaiting impact, seeming as I won''t be able to wiggle my way out.

    I''m going to be scarred with this thing for life!

    Seconds later, I don''t feel anything but her crushing me. I still brace myself.

    "Done." She says with a chuckle, finally getting off of me.

    My eyes shot open and my brows furrow. My hand instinctively reaches for my neck, which she hastily slaps away. "Don''t, it needs time to seep in. Unless you want the mark on your hand, too?" She remarks.

    So, it wasn''t a tattoo? She literally said tattoo, right?

    I carefully sit up, wincing as I feel a slight burning sensation in my neck. "Is it normal to burn?"

    She nods with a sadistic grin then walks back over to the desk to put the gun away. "Yup, come over here." She points at the chair across from her desk for me to sit in. I very warily do as I''m told.

    Grabbing her smartphone from the desk, she walks a bit closer and angles it like she''s going to take a photo of me.

    I react quickly, pushing my open hand in the way of the lense. She huffs, rolling her eyes for the hundredth time today. "Please don''t. Why do you want a picture of me anyway?" I question.

    She simply bats my hand away and snaps one before I can refuse again. I frown, narrowing my eyes towards her.

    She needs to learn to take no as an answer!

    Her phone chimes and a wicked smirk reappears on her lips. I sit here anxiously, twiddling my thumbs as she texted back and forth with whoever that was.

    "Stay in here, I need to grab something." She suddenly announces, breaking the silence of the room.

    Before I can say anything back, she disappears into thin air.

    I wonder if all Surfers can teleport like that. Surely we can, but the only way I know of, is that pulse thing I had to do with Dennis to get here. Pulseless, he might have called it.

    Lost in my own thoughts, the weight of the events of today, paired with the silence of the empty room, is making me feel extremely overwhelmed.

    Squeezing my eyes firmly shut, I hold my head in my hands and take some deep, shaky breaths.

    I''m still hoping this is all a dream, a punishment for playing sci fi games 24/7. Yet the more this day goes on, the much less likely I can see that being the case.

    Poor Mum, she''ll be heartbroken. The fact that she''s not even my biological mother is still unthinkable. She wouldn''t lie to me, she would''ve told me I was adopted, surely. I''m nineteen, definitely old enough to hear it, especially from such a loving, caring mum¡­

    A tear escapes and rolls its way down my cheek. I furiously flick it away. "No, no more crying." I grumble to myself then stand with my trembling legs.

    I can''t just sit here and wait for the queen of bitches to come back and bark more orders at me. She''s marked with poison, it feels like, that will also protect me somehow! Load of bullshit, I need to get it off.

    I look around the room and spot a different door I''m hoping could be a bathroom. I rush over to it and open the door. I feel relieved to see that I was right.

    With no time to lose, I run up to the sink, gasping as I see my reflection in the mirror above it.

    It''s too late! I can see it! It''s what appears to be a trident resting in the eye socket of a human skull. Such a gross image, engraved on my neck for all to see.

    Then, it hits me. I notice the colour drain from my face as the realisation sinks in.

    It''s a gang symbol¡­

    With that new information, I turn the knob of the hot tap and lean over the sink, cupping my hands to collect the water.

    "That''ll sting like a bitch if you do that." A deep voice warns me out of nowhere.

    I squeal from the shock, spinning on the spot to find Phillip towering over me with a disapproving look.

    "Where did you come from?" I gasp, trying to steady my breathing once again.

    He moves closer to me, turning off the tap behind me, and staying far too close for comfort. "Eve invited me." He states matter of factly. A frown tugs at my lips.

    Of course she did¡­

    He raises his right hand and gently brushes it across my shoulder, nearing the mark, and cups the back of my neck.

    I gulp hard, trying to ignore the tingling sensation I felt.

    Um¡­ This is weird.

    A crooked smirk appears on his face, and his eyes meet the mark then mine. My blush is impossible to hide at this point. "You look so handsome with my mark." He comments, making my eyes widen.

    His mark!? No! Eve made the deal with him!

    His smirk widens into a grin at my expression. "All I need to do now is touch the mark with a drop of my blood, and part of the initiation is complete."

    I shake my head furiously and try to move around him. It''s clear he thought ahead, because he has blocked either side of me from moving too far.

    His grip tightens slightly on my neck, enough to render me still. He then bites down hard on his lower lip until it bleeds a little.

    Wait, why the hell would he use blood from his- Oh!

    I motion to pull away, but his lips capture the mark before I could. A blood curdling scream escapes my lips as the burning intensifies by a thousand units. If it wasn''t for Phillip holding me up, I would''ve dropped as a deadweight on the floor.

    Fuck! This pain certainly clarifies that I''m not in a dream, and now I''m not sure what fact hurts more.

    Black spots now invade my vision, and I lose my bearings. My head is spinning so bad I wanna throw up.

    "WHAT THE FUCK HAVE YOU DONE!?" Is the last thing I hear Dennis scream before the darkness envelops me.

 Phillip Reed POV

    Chapter Five:

    <h2>Phillip Reed:</h2>

    Ever since I saw him in the coffee shop, I knew he intrigued me. The fact that Dennis walked him in irked me at first, but as soon as I noticed the lack of shoes on his feet, and his frightened look, I knew I needed him.

    Chipless Surfers are far rarer than the highest carat of diamond, and this one was rather handsome, too. You can''t blame my excitement, especially when that Dennis left his side.

    I sat back with my latte and examined him for a while before walking over. Another good indicator was the fact that he was reading a newspaper some elder had left behind. Definitely a newbie, everyone of his age just browses the ParaNet.

    I''ll admit, when I approached him I was a bit full on, especially with the flirting. I couldn''t help it, something about him just drew me in. I still can''t place my finger on why that is.

    He did surprise me, with his sudden will to speak back and try to defend himself. Of course, his attempts were cute and laughable. When he cut me off as I was speaking, that was brave, but he soon regretted it once I''d raised my voice a little.

    I smirk thinking back on it, but my phone buzzing snaps me out of my thoughts.

    That better be Eve. Arthur has had the reverse effect on her, she can''t wait to get rid of the poor boy. Good for me, though not for my pockets. My keenness was far too noticeable. The money sucking whore is demanding far too much of me, and here I am doing it like a fucking idiot.

    I scowl then check my phone. It is Eve, and she''s sent a photo of Arthur with the caption ''I''ve done the mark like you asked.'' Then there''s several different variations of cash emojis.

    I roll my eyes and enlarge the picture. My Arthur is sitting in an office chair with a tear stained face, and the mark forming on his neck.

    Perfect. Well, apart from the tears, of course.

    I text her back.

    Me: ''Great, I want to be there ASAP to seal it.''

    She hastily replies.

    Disruled Whore: ''That can be arranged as long as you bring the cash in full.''

    I scowl at the screen and furiously type back.

    Me: ''You''ll get half now and be fucking happy about it.''

    Disruled Whore: ''100% and I''ll give you a tip off about a new Pit Mine. Wow, I''m so generous today.''

    With a clenched jaw, I simply reply ''fine''. I''ll meet her at her base.

    Crafty bitch, at least if I pay in full now, I won''t have to hear the shit out of her mouth. For a while, at least.

    I stand from my seat, pocketing my phone as well as my keys and wallet. After a quick and painful trip to my safe, I have the required amount carefully stacked into a briefcase that I''ve handcuffed to my wrist.

    Can never be too careful, especially when dealing with rogues.

    I leave my office, many of my workers try to bother me, but I practically walk through them. If it''s that important, my second in command Rhys will inform me.

    I turn the corner, and who do I nearly bump into? Rhys. And his normally stoic expression is instead panicked. He never shows that sort of emotion. This isn''t good.

    "Master Reed, I''m afraid I have some bad news¡­" He trails off, scanning my face for warning signs of anger.

    I huff and tap my foot impatiently. "Spit it out then." I demand.

    He stumbles on his words before telling me. "There''s a new chipless Surfer that''s been brought to our attention, b-but, um, Disruled found him first¡­" He scratches the back of his head and waits anxiously for my reply.

    I scoff and wave the briefcase in his face. "Good thing I spotted him, then, hm?" I taunt.

    He breathes a little sigh of relief and nods. "Then that''s great news, Master Reed. Can I assist you in any way?"

    I ponder on that then sternly nod. "Later, yes. As for now, you will arrange a private room fully equipped for his arrival, the closer to mine, the better, clear?" I bark.

    He bows before me, which never fails to put a smile on my face. "Yes, Master Reed."

    With that out of the way, I order for my driver to pull out front to take me to the Disruled base.

    The drive is very short, and seemingly unnecessary, but would you walk down the crowded, unsafe streets with two and a half mil handcuffed to your wrist? Pretty suspicious, too, if you ask me. Those ParaPigs are ruthless, and I don''t own the majority of the force¡­ Yet.

    Once at the base, I meet Eve outside the supposedly secret entrance. She stands there staring into space at first, a lit cigarette bud clutched between her fingers.

    "I think you''ve smoked it now." I remark, gaining her attention.

    She grins widely and drops the bud by my feet. I kick it away with a scowl and barge my way into the building. It absolutely stinks of God knows what, disgusting me to the core.

    Ugh, what a dump. Literally. I need a shower ASAP, and these clothes burned to dust.

    Eve quickly catches up to me, and ushers me into her pristine office. Talk about half a job with the cleaning.

    Arthur isn''t in the seat from the photo, but I can hear running water from the right side of the room.

    He can''t wet the mark, it''ll ruin the initiation completely!

    Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.

    I hastily uncuff the briefcase from me and throw it at Eve, which she more than gratefully receives. I then rush into the bathroom to find Arthur''s hands cupped under the water.

    "That''ll sting like a bitch if you do that." I warn him.

    He squeals and spins around on the spot, obviously startled. "Where did you come from?" He gasps.

    I ignore that for the moment and reach behind him, turning off the tap just in case. He seems flustered by how close I am, especially when I stay in that spot. "Eve invited me." I state, running my hand across his shoulder and towards my gang''s mark.

    Cupping the back of his neck, I admire the effect I''m leaving on him. A rare, genuine smile creeps onto my face.

    He''s so awkward, it''s rather cute.

    When I make full eye contact, that''s when his nerves become more evident. I can''t help but get lost in those warm, hazel eyes. "You look so handsome with my mark." I compliment him.

    His bug eyes widen, and he finally twigs onto why I''m here. My smile grows larger. "All I need to do now is touch the mark with a drop of my blood, and part of the initiation is complete." I tell him proudly.

    He shakes his head furiously, desperately trying to fight me, yet his attempts are worryingly weak.

    I can''t let this one on jobs, he''s pathetic. What if I was a threat? He''d be dead already. Harsh, but true.

    All I have to do is tighten my grip on his neck a little to render him still. I then bite down hard on my bottom lip to draw blood. His blush coats his face in a much darker shade when he realises why.

    When he attempts to pull away again, I dive into it, planting a lingering kiss onto my mark.

    A horrifying scream leaves his lips, causing me to wince, but I stick with it.

    I move my arms around him to support his weight as his body grows limp. Passing out is normal, the pain is excruciating.

    As I pull my lips away, I lift him up bridal style and watch his mark solidify and brand his skin.

    Such a beauty¡­

    A tear waters in my eye, but is soon blinked back when I hear a commotion. "WHAT THE FUCK HAVE YOU DONE!?" I hear Dennis seethe from the office.

    I huff and examine Arthur''s peaceful form for one more moment before leaving the bathroom.

    All eyes instantly lock onto me in fury. Dennis didn''t run in alone, several others back him up, all equally as furious with me.

    "Don''t look at me like that." I snap, nodding my head toward the money hungry leader. "She''s the one who accepted my offer. This isn''t a kidnapping, you lot already done that part."

    Dennis'' head bows as his entire body shakes with anger. A petite woman with a twitching eye lunges towards me, but a tall man wearing a durag holds her back.

    "You''ll regret this! Arthur will hate you as much as we do!" She growls.

    I roll my eyes. "Very original. He doesn''t even know you people." I point out then turn my attention to the guy. "Shame you can''t hold back her words."

    Her face now burns a bright red in anger. "You know that''s not my pronouns, you prick!" She cries, fighting off the man to run out of the room. He sends me daggers before running after her, I simply chuckle.

    "Put him down and leave before this gets ugly." Dennis finally speaks up, his tone dark.

    I raise a brow, thoroughly amused. "You really like him, huh?" I urge with another chuckle.

    His jaw noticeably clenches and he shifts his stance. His knuckles are pure white, too, he really needs to cool off. Eve in the meantime is just standing there leaning against the wall, perhaps enjoying this more than me.

    Considering he didn''t reply to my direct question, which I hate, I push his buttons some more. "Well, that''s too bad if so. He''s quite handsome, and even though he''s inexperienced, I''ll certainly enjoy our time together." I send him a pearly white grin and a wink to tip him over the edge.

    And that was it. That snapped him. He lunges towards me, blind with rage. Eve decides to step in and stop him in his tracks, which is met with his swinging punches.

    "Eve! Let me go! I can''t believe you sold him! You money hungry bitch!"

    She effortlessly holds him back, and begins to drag him out. Before she reaches the door, she turns to me. "You''re free to go. Don''t bring him back to my doorstep when you''re fed up of him." She warns. Her remark sends a sudden burst of strength into Dennis.

    He manages to break free of her hold, but surprisingly doesn''t leap towards me again. "Mark me, too." He demands.

    My eyes widen in shock, a very rare sight for me. I''ve already seen so much in my life, barely anything shocks me anymore. But that¡­ that does.

    Eve''s jaw drops, appearing outraged. "I don''t fucking think so!" She snarls.

    Dennis stomps his foot. "Well, I do!" He snaps back at her. "Unless you want everyone here to know your filthy secret!"

    Silence fills the tense air, and Eve''s expression turns sour, leaving me intrigued.

    Filthy secret? I wish I''d have known that, I would''ve saved myself a fuck ton of money.

    "Why would I even want you? What could you bring to the table?" I speak up, causing both of their gazes to snap onto me.

    Eve throws her hands up in the air in frustration. "Seriously? You''re considering this dickhead? He does nothing but cause trouble." She argues, clearly desperate.

    A smirk plays on my lips.

    Ah, how the tables have turned. I might not be able to pry the money from her hands, but I could certainly get two for one.

    "Fine, follow me, Dennis, I''ll have you marked at the base." I gesture for him to stand beside me. I''ve never seen someone look so relieved in their life.

    Eve scoffs, staring at me wide-eyed, in absolute frustration and disbelief. "Really?" She gasps.

    We both nod at her then Dennis turns to me. "Can I grab a few bits and say goodbye?"

    I shake my head with a chuckle, and he begrudgingly accepts defeat with a nod and pursed lips. "No, we''re leaving now. Everything you''ll need will be at the base."

    Eve kisses her teeth and storms out of the room with evident tears in her eyes. Dennis and I exchange a shocked look.

    By the looks of it, that''s the first time he''s seen the ice queen crying, too.

    "LEAVE ME THE FUCK ALONE, GREG!" We hear her scream. Banging and crashing follows.

    Arthur begins to stir, so I adjust him in my arms. His head now rests on my shoulder, and his arms instinctively circle around my neck to snuggle in. Butterflies fill my stomach like a first crush, whilst I could practically hear Dennis'' blood boiling.

    "Hurt him in any way and I won''t hold back." He states darkly.

    I snort derisively. "Don''t try and threaten me. I''m doing you a favour getting you out of this shithole." I snap back then charge out of the office. He soon follows like a lost puppy behind me.

    Thankfully, we miss the other members on the way out. Less drama is normally disappointing for me, but I''m honestly shocked to say I''ve had enough. For now, at least.

    My driver is still waiting patiently for me in the same spot. One gesture to him, and he immediately leaves his seat to open the door for me.

    I send Dennis in first before he pulls some stunt, then carefully slide in after.

    I don''t bother buckling my belt like Dennis, as I keep Arthur on my lap. Bloody hell, if looks could kill, I''d be a dead man.

    "Chelsea is right, you know. He''d never like you, let alone love you." He growls.

    I roll my eyes with an exasperated sigh. "Change the record, Dennis. Again, you''re lucky I''m taking you on. I don''t want you anywhere near my Arthur."

    He snorts, crossing his arms against his chest. "Your Arthur? You''ve known him like what, two minutes if that?" He remarks.

    I ignore that for now. He can pay for the comment with the nasty jobs he''ll be assigned. And believe me, they will be more than unpleasant.

    I stroke Arthur''s long, walnut locks away from his peaceful face, tucking them behind his ear.

    He desperately needs a haircut. It hangs by his chin, but that''s far too long in my book. He''ll look breathtaking in a tailored suit.

    I can''t wait to show him our way of life. The moment he awakes, he''ll be pleasantly surprised, I''m sure of it.

 Thats nothing, trust me.

    Chapter Six:

    <h2>Arthur Taylor:</h2>

    My last memory was excruciating pain before I blacked out. Now I feel groggy as my body wakes up. My neck still feeling tender and a little numb.

    I groan and adjust myself in a cloud of a bed. There''s no way this is mine, feels way too soft and expensive.

    The luxurious bedding slides down my arm as I move. I reach to rub my eyes before they flutter open, wincing as I do so.

    Ouch¡­ Eve lied, there''s no way in hell the pain I went through for the mark was not permanent. Especially when Phillip¡­ kissed it.

    As that particular memory came back, my eyes shot open, only to be blinded.

    Jesus, it''s bright in here!

    Blinking furiously to adjust to the light, I carefully sit up to take in my surroundings.

    This is nothing like my room in the slightest. For starters, the bed is king-sized and soft, unlike my string loaded single. Two bedside tables sit on each side instead of a wall and a dresser that was falling apart.

    The more I look around, the room is huge, I''d go as far to say this looks like a room for royalty. Hell, even that odd shaped ceiling light is too fancy for me!

    "He must really like me¡­" I murmur to myself.

    I brush my hand through my hair, a nervous habit of mine, but it slips straight through.

    What¡­? My hand should get caught in the knots!

    I stumble out of the bed, nearly falling ass over head to confirm my suspicion. Gripping the top of the dresser I fall in front of, I stare at my reflection in the mirror above in horror.

    My lovely hair! Over half the length is gone! What right does he think he has to do that!?

    My eyes then wander to the much-more-noticeable mark engraved into my neck.

    The same right he thinks he has to do that, I guess.

    I huff and bow my head as my eyes grow teary.

    I know life isn''t fair, but this feels like a fucking massive stretch to that. How dare he do this to me! How dare Eve! When I see his mug, I''m gonna, I''m gonna-

    "Good morning, handsome." His voice greets me suddenly.

    I practically jump on the spot, my head shooting up and seeing his smirking face in the mirror. "It''s really not." I point out bitterly, blinking back my tears.

    He rolls his eyes and places his hands on my bare shoulders, massaging them slightly. I try to shrug them off, yet he simply tightens his grip. "Like your new look? It''s much neater, a little styling and it''s perfect."

    I''d love to know who agreed to cut a sleeping guy''s hair!

    "It was cut without my consent or knowledge." I remind him, my tone annoyingly weak.

    No wonder he won''t take me seriously. I sound like a coward!

    He carelessly shrugs. "It''s only hair, plus, I done you a favour." A smirk springs onto his lips. "Anyway, you''ve got a big day ahead of you. Go take a shower, I''ve laid out your clothes on the bed for when you''re finished."

    He finally releases my shoulders after one last squeeze then turns on his heel to leave the room. Though before he steps a foot out, he turns back to face me. "You''ve got twenty minutes max. I expect you to be ready." He demands then finally leaves, slamming the door shut behind him.

    I glare at the empty space where he was standing, my hands balling into fists.

    Like hell am I following his orders, no way. I''m getting dressed then getting the fuck out of here.

    I stamp over to the bed and assess what he''s given me.

    Designer boxers, black button up shirt, black slacks with the blazer to match, socks, belt, shiny shoes, and even aftershave with a handwritten note attached.

    I pull a face at the smart clothes before taking it all into the bathroom, where I strip off and change.

    I have a quick freshen up and bathroom break before quickly dressing myself.

    Ugh, why does he want me to dress as some sort of business man? At least if this is like a uniform for his group, I''ll blend in.

    After tucking the shirt as well as I could, I curiously read the note on the aftershave as I push my feet into the shoes.

    ''Don''t spray too much, it''s strong, just like moi. ;) Xxxxx''

    I roll my eyes, scrunching it up and throwing it aside. I button the last few buttons of my shirt as I leave the bathroom.

    Right, now I look the part, I hope. Now to find an exit, wouldn''t surprise me if he''s got people guarding the one he came through. So, that will be my last resort.

    I look through the window and am very disappointed to see I''m on at least the third story of the building. So, there goes the first option!

    After scoping out the entirety of the room, I''m left with the risky option. What''s the worst that can happen?

    Taking a deep breath, I push open the door and walk out, hopefully confidently. No one is manning the door, plus, the corridor is empty, that''s good, at least. Now to find an exit.

    I sneak over to the left, peering around the corner before going any further. Good thing I did, Phillip is up ahead, arguing with someone in hushed tones.

    Shit, that way''s a no go.

    I rush as quietly as I can to the right side, peering around again.

    Clear! Thank god!

    I motion to move forward when someone grabs the back of my collar and yanks me towards them. A childish scream regrettably escapes my lips. I don''t have to look to know who it is.

    "That was a quick shower." Phillip remarks in a short tone.

    With a gulp, I warily turn my head to face him. As you can imagine, he''s not impressed in the slightest.

    I remain silent, as anything I have to say won''t matter anyway. It''s obvious what I was doing, no point trying to cover it.

    He releases my collar then pushes my shoulder lightly so I face him properly. His arms cross against his chest as he begins to tap his foot impatiently, staring me down. "Hm? Not going to give some crappy excuse?" He urges dangerously.

    I shake my head slowly. My fear tells me to bow it, but I don''t want to appear more cowardly than I already do.

    His lips purse into a thin line, his eyes narrowing. "I expect verbal responses, Mr Taylor." He roars at a loud volume, stamping his foot at the same time.

    I wince and shakily reply. "Y-Yes, Mr Reed."

    A deep frown pulls at the corners of his lips and he stalks closer to me. "It''s Master Reed." He grunts then leans in close. My breath catches, and not in a good way. "And I expect you to address me as such."

    I nod furiously, taking a step back for personal space. He soon invades it again, his eyes dark. "What did I just say about verbal answers?" He growls.

    Shit, how is he so intimidating!?

    "Yes, sorry, Master Reed." I sputter out with nervous laughter.

    He nods back with a smirk, seemingly satisfied with my fear. "Now that''s sorted, you need to learn how to dress yourself properly." He gestures towards my poorly tucked shirt then steps forward to fix it himself.

    My face feels as if it''s blown up into flames as he does so, especially when he begins to unbutton the shirt at the top.

    Ummm¡­ What''s going on here?

    "Never hide your mark, it''s very disrespectful. It needs to be on show for your protection, too. No one will mess with you as long as it''s showing." He advises me as he straightens the collar.

    I shift my feet, extremely uncomfortable with having my shirt pretty much half open. And it''s not even like I can do it up, not with his scary rant.

    "People are going to stare." I weakly point out.

    He nods with a chuckle. "Of course they are. They would anyway considering you''re the first Chipless we''ve hired in a decade."

    Wow, I know I''ve been told people like me are hard to come by, but a decade? This place must be much more developed than Disruled, too. From what I''ve seen so far, it''s huge, with a lot more members. Plus, is ''hired'' really the right word to use here? I didn''t apply, and I most certainly do not want the job!

    "What is your group called?" I ask him curiously, considering I can''t escape. For now, at least.

    He now straightens out my blazer, examining me from head to toe. "It''s ParaLegion, and before you ask, I am the sole leader. Always have been, always will be."

    My eyes widen a little.

    Either the group''s not been around for long, or he''s much older than he looks!

    "How old are you?"

    The stupid question leaves my lips before I realise, and as soon as I do, I wish I had a shell I could crawl into.

    He cocks a brow, thankfully not enraged by my outburst question. "Rather rude question, no?" He chuckles but then continues. "I''m twenty-nine."

    Jesus, ten years older than me! He does actually look around that age, the tattoos mature his look, too.

    Before I can think of another question to ask, a distorted noise sounds from a speaker nearby, an announcement soon following. "All members are to attend an important announcement in the meeting hall in ten minutes sharp. I repeat, all members are to attend an important announcement in the meeting hall in ten minutes sharp."

    As it cuts out, I look up at Phillip with a puzzled expression. He smiles and simply says. "That''s why you need to look your best."

    I shiver at what he''s implying, horrified at the mere thought.

    No, I am NOT being made centre of attention! No, no, no! Please no!

    "Please tell me you''re not going to show me off to these people on some stage." I breathe out, my hands already trembling.

    His expression softens a little at my worsening shakes. "Don''t panic. I''ll be doing all the talking, and I''ll only need you there for a moment."

    That''s not really comforting in the slightest. I guess I have no choice anyway¡­

    "Okay." I mutter with a frown.

    He pats my shoulder then snakes his arm around my waist to lead the way, causing my body to stiffen. I stop dead in my tracks.

    No, this doesn''t feel right at all. I don''t know I could have possibly led him on, but he needs telling. No matter how scary and intimidating he is.

    "I''m not- just not, um, interested in this, whatever this is." I sputter out, stumbling over my words. I mentally kick myself for sounding so damn pathetic.

    And I know I sounded weak, if his face right now is anything to go by. It''s definitely amused, and most certainly not downtrodden.

    "I don''t know what''s going on in your pretty head, but at least wine and dine me first." He jokes with a pearly white grin, setting my face alight with embarrassment.

    He is coming onto me, though! I know I''m not imagining it! God, I must look like such a fool!

    Loud laughter echoes through the corridor from him, my face must be a right picture!

    The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

    A group of suited men turn the corner, their jaws hanging open in shock.

    He does seem like a miserable bastard, I bet they''ve never heard him laugh. What an honour for me to be the one to make him laugh! As if¡­

    Phillip''s demeanour immediately switches back to default upon their arrival. One pissed glance at them, and their heads bow in respect as they hurry the opposite way.

    "Gawking idiots." Phillip grumbles under his breath then replaces his arm around my waist to guide me forward. I just let him like a bloody doormat after that humiliating show.

    The fairly short walk felt hours long. The closer we got to the grand meeting hall, the more populated the corridors were. Everyone went out of their way to stare at me, either with curiosity, shock, or disgust. So, that done nothing for my ever-growing anxiety.

    "Wow, he dropped Daryl for that?" I hear someone say quite loudly as we stop at the large double doors held open for us.

    Whoa, I''m no looker, but I will not be referred to as that. Daryl must be his previous partner, maybe the one Eve said slept with his mother. What an insane thing to happen.

    I look over my shoulder, searching for who I heard, to find that Phillip had frozen solid in his spot. He must have heard it, too.

    Any chatter fell dead when he halted. The atmosphere immediately became heavy as the tense situation was extremely apparent.

    "Who said that?" He urges, his tone suspiciously gentle and calm.

    The silence is lethal, and does nothing for his growing anger. He removes his arm from my waist and spins on the spot, his hateful glare scanning the petrified crowd.

    "Don''t be a pussy, say that again, and say it to my face." He roars.

    Everyone flinches, including me. Then, to all of our shock, someone barges their way through the crowd and stands before us. Head held high and shoulders squared, he side eyes me in absolute disgust.

    Well, thanks.

    Phillip''s jaw clenches, his hands ball into tight fists. His eyes are lit with rage. "Go on, say it again." He dares him.

    The ballsy guy crosses his buff arms and leans towards me, not Phillip. His rancid breath made me scrunch my face up in disgust. "Consider yourself as worthless as the shit on his shoe." He spat, literally. Thankfully, the blob hit my chin and not my mouth.

    Before I could think of a comeback, or muster the courage to say it in the first place, Phillip had drawn a gun to his head.

    The only audible gasp was mine. Of course, everyone was flustered, but certainly not surprised.

    All the colour drains from the guy''s face. It''s evident that he was regretting ever speaking up. His bottom lip quivers as the rest of my being is trying its hardest not to make any sudden movements.

    Phillip''s face is devoid of emotion as he slaps the pistol across the side of his head. Not enough to knock him out, though that was purposeful. "Apologise." He commands, his eyes watching his every twitch.

    Wincing, the guy shakily bows. "I sincerely ap-apologise, Master R-Reed." He stutters.

    Phillip strikes the back of his head as it bows, flooring him.

    The crowd takes a few steps back, anticipating the worst.

    No, surely not¡­ He wouldn''t¡­ would he¡­?

    With a shaky intake of breath, I too step back.

    "Not me, you fucking idiot. You''ve lost your chance." He says darkly then locks eyes with me.

    "Look away, cover your ears." He orders through gritted teeth.

    He''s actually going to shoot him!

    I begin to feel lightheaded and notice I''m hyperventilating. The room spins at an alarming rate, and I stumble a few steps back. In doing so, I bump into someone''s chest.

    "Sorry!" I gasp, spinning on the spot to see them. That was a bad idea for someone who''s already dizzy.

    My legs fail me. I brace myself for the fall as there''s not much else I can do in my state. Though I never hit the ground, the person had caught me in their arms and gently lowered me to the floor.

    My vision a blur, I blink furiously in attempt to correct it. The person rushes away from my side as soon as I''m sitting.

    I wanted to thank them, but I don''t blame them for leaving, especially since the way Phillip is right now.

    BANG!

    The shot had been fired, and rang through the corridor. My heart feels as if it''s about to explode, and I''m thankful my eyes are blurred.

    Shockingly, no one flees the scene. It''s horrible to think they''re used to such violence.

    The guy seemed to be a prick, but he didn''t need to die on the fact that he aired his opinion. Though I guess he disrespected Phillip in doing so. Still, it''s not justifiable in my book.

    "Would anyone else like to speak up about my partner? Hm?" He dangerously urges the crowd.

    Not one person even let out a breath in fear of angering the beast.

    "No one?" He asks with a short laugh. Again; silence. "That''s what I thought, and it fucking better stay that way!"

    He storms over to my slouching form. I can feel the beat of his feet slamming into the ground. Once he''s by my side, he crouches, placing a hand on my shoulder. I immediately flinch.

    A frown tugs at his lips. "You were going to see it one way or another, Arthur. It just so happened that someone had the audacity to disrespect me." He says as if that was supposed to comfort me.

    Cowering away from him, I shake uncontrollably. With a roll of his eyes, he stands and addresses the crowd. "The meeting is cancelled. Someone clean up this mess and dispose of the body. I think I''ve made myself crystal clear that no one is to touch a hair on my Arthur''s head."

    People hurry around to fulfil his orders. I''m still a blubbering mess, as you can imagine.

    ''My Arthur?'' Why is this guy so obsessed with me? How can he kill so easily, so void of emotion¡­?

    As these thoughts plague my mind, he brushes his hand down my arm. I snap out of my daze, finding that I''m in now in the room I woke up in, sitting on the sofa, my head in Phillip''s lap.

    With a gasp, I hastily sit up, wringing my hands and sending him a wide eyed look. "How¡­?" I breathe.

    He smiles, though it''s weak, and does not reach his sad eyes. "You Fazed out. I had you checked over, you''re healthy. Just still adjusting to the Paramension." He tells me.

    I nod slowly, shocked to see him so down. And over me of all people!

    "How are you feeling?" He asks, scanning my blatantly terrified expression.

    As risky as it is, I decide to be honest with him. Lying doesn''t feel like a great idea at all.

    "I witnessed you kill a man, I think I''m entitled to feel worried and scared." I admit with a nervous laugh.

    His lips purse and his hands ball into fists. I attempt to gulp back my fear.

    Shit.

    "He disrespected you. He referred to you as shit on my shoe, and you''re practically mourning him?" He snaps, raising his voice.

    I shake my head cautiously. "I''m not mourning him, and what he said wasn''t fair at all. I''ve just never¡­ witnessed anything like that." I stress.

    He huffs, sinking further back into his seat and crossing his arms. "I''m afraid you''ll get used to it. It''s my job to keep everyone in line. Any tiny amount of disrespect doesn''t go unpunished, otherwise everyone would think they''re entitled to do so." He shrugs then sits forward, holding his head in his hands.

    I get that¡­ But I certainly don''t agree with it.

    I reach for my non-existent hair out of habit, sighing then start rocking slightly in my seat.

    Surely I''m not properly stuck here. Where was Dennis in all of this? Does he know I''m gone? Did he protest if he knew? So many questions¡­

    "Anyway." Phillip breaks the silence and snaps me out of my daze a little. I continue to rock back and forth. "I''m needed at an important meeting at a rogue club called Para-Dice tonight. You''re going to tag along, so you need to eat then get ready with me."

    He checks his fancy watch then continues to say. "We''ve got two hours before we need to leave, so we need to hurry."

    He stands then offers his hand to me, his face screwing up in confusion at my current state.

    I let out a very nervous chuckle and realise I''m hugging myself, too.

    God, this is embarrassing¡­ Stimming in front of him, really, Arthur?

    "What are you doing?" He questions rudely. No surprise there.

    "I''m autistic." I simply reply.

    He cocks a brow, lowering his offered hand. "And how has that got anything to do with you wasting time we don''t have?" He remarks.

    I frown and pry my arms from my body to grab the sofa, stopping my rocking. "What you''re seeing is actually call-"

    He cuts me off shortly. "I don''t give a fuck whether you''re autistic or not. Just get your ass up and follow me." He demands, already leading the way.

    I rush to my feet, stumbling and trying not to melt down.

    Really, I should be happy that it doesn''t bother him. But him saying that, and him acting the way he is, doesn''t line up at all. Maybe the label doesn''t, but the inconvenience does. To be honest, I can relate on the inconvenience of it all, too. Just not in an asshole way.

    "Have you ever been waxed before?" Phillip asks me out of the blue as he leads me out of the room and into a corridor.

    Strange question¡­

    "I do the middle part of my eyebrows, and shave my face and armpits. Other than that, no." I answer warily.

    He lets out a sigh. "I didn''t ask for your life story." He points out rudely.

    I scoff, shaking my head in disbelief.

    Wow, rude is an understatement, for sure.

    "My sister Riley is demanding to meet you, and you need to look your best for tonight. I trust her sense of style, so she''ll help you get ready."

    My face screws up in confusion.

    Why does he keep saying that? I''m not a little kid who needs help getting dressed. Plus, I don''t know why he''s introducing me to family like he is. That''s going to be awkward.

    He stops abruptly. I stumble to a stop.

    I still can''t get the hang of walking after being practically wheelchair bound. To be honest, I still can''t get over the fact that I can walk pain free!

    Phillip turns to face me. "She should be waiting in here. I expect you to behave and not wander off. I''m dropping you off here, and expect to pick you up here." He orders sternly.

    I try my hardest not to roll my eyes, and nod. He narrows his eyes at me, instantly agitated. Realisation soon hits and I sigh. "Yes, Master Reed."

    He nods back, presses a kiss to my forehead then knocks on the door loudly. I turn my head to hide my displeased expression.

    "Philly!" A cheerful feminine voice chirps as the door swings open.

    I hold back a laugh at the cute nickname and turn to face her. Phillip scowls at the name, but she wears a much more cheerful expression than his, her amber eyes lit with joy. She practically screams when she sees me and yanks me into her arms. Her floral perfume instantly irritates my throat and messes with my sensory, though her presence is calming. Which I can assure you is a nice, well needed change.

    "Aw, so nice to meet you!" She squeaks in excitement, squeezing me even tighter before finally letting me go.

    I struggle a little to smile in return, scratching the back of my neck. "Nice to meet you." I greet her with a small voice.

    She does a little dance on the spot in excitement with a pearly white grin. "You''re lucky my little Philly has such a keen eye on you, you''re absolutely adorable!" She enthuses.

    I still plaster a smile on my face and nod nervously.

    I wish she wouldn''t react to me like I''m a cute puppy. I''m really nothing special.

    Phillip purposely ruffles her pristine curls to annoy her. She slaps his hand away with a pout. "Stop calling me that. I''m certainly not little either." He grunts.

    With a roll of her eyes, she playfully nudges me with her elbow. "He sure isn''t." She giggles. What she was implying both shocked and embarrassed me.

    This is his sister! Plus, why should I care? We''re not together!

    Thankfully, Phillip swiftly changes the subject. "I need him ready in an hour." He demands then storms off.

    Riley mock salutes his turned back and leads me inside. "I can''t apologise enough for him. God knows what you see in the miserable sod." She grumbles.

    A very nervous laugh escapes me. She closes the door and sends me a puzzled look. It soon morphs into one of realisation with my anxiousness. "You''re not a couple?" She gasps, holding her hands up to her mouth to hide her dropped jaw.

    Shit, this is bad! I''ve seen what he''s capable of, if he told her we''re together, I''m most certainly going to blag it to save my ass!

    I wave my hands frantically. "Course we are! It''s just¡­" I bite my lip, trying to think of something believable. "We had an argument. I''m sure you heard he shot this guy just because he was disrespecting us. I didn''t agree that he needed to die, it scared me." I ramble with the flow of my thoughts.

    Good job, Arthur, using facts to try and solidify a lie¡­ Doesn''t really sound like something to be proud of, though.

    Her lips were tightly pursed like she didn''t believe me. I anxiously await her reply. "I did hear about that, and don''t tell Philly, but I would agree with your view if I didn''t know the man. He was a grade A asshole." She assures me.

    I can''t describe how relieved I feel by her believing it, and her kinda mirroring my feelings. She can''t be a ruthless killer like her brother.

    "Anyway." She dismisses with a wave of her hand. "Ready for your wax?"

    My eyes widen in horror, yet I''m not that surprised.

    I know he mentioned it, but no, thank you! Yeah, my chest is quite hairy and on show, but- Oh, that''s why he wants it done.

    "Please tell me it''s just for my chest." I plead. Her tight-lipped smile tells me I''m in for worse, so I sigh in defeat.

    Can''t be any more painful than the gang mark, surely.

    She already has a little station set up with the heated wax pot and strips, as well as various creams and cleaning materials.

    She pats the open seat, and I very begrudgingly take it. I take off my shirt to start with, as instructed, and sit there awkwardly as she wipes my chest before going in with the hot wax. "No need to look so nervous. I do it all the time." She tries to assure me as she rubs on the strip.

    Not what I''m worried about!

    Suddenly, she yanks it off with all her might, and I embarrassingly scream out like a bitch. Not for the first time today...

    Not as bad as the mark, but that felt like life ending material rather than just extreme pain. This one at least fades quicker and introduces a slow, itchy burn.

    She chuckles, shaking her head a little in disbelief. Probably at how pathetic I''m being. But waxing is bloody agonising, believe it or not! "You''re really not his usual type. It''s a refreshing change. How did you meet?" She wonders, making small talk.

    When I tell you I force a smile, it took everything in me to do it. "In a coffee shop. He''s certainly not shy with flirting. It was safe to say that I was overwhelmed by it all." As much I as don''t want to, I need to add a little extra. "Never been hit on by such a handsome guy, to be honest. Thought he was joking at first."

    She yanks off another strip, making my eyes water once again. "Aw, how sweet! You are cute, though, Arthur, don''t speak about yourself like you''re not."

    Cute sounds kinda like an insult¡­?

    Despite that, tears that weren''t pain induced began to leak through. When she said that, all I can think of is Mum¡­

    Shaking those thoughts away, I endure the torture. And I mean it when I call it torture. She waxed everywhere. Yep, you heard correctly! Everywhere!

    In the end, I''m a wreck who is forced into an even smarter suit than before. My hair is slicked back neatly, and of course, my shirt is open. To top it all off, aftershave is sprayed, my teeth are brushed, and my fancy shoes are tied. All just in time for Phillip who aggressively knocks at the door.

    Riley wipes the sweat from her brow with the forearm then rushes over to answer it.

    He swiftly walks in, surprisingly calm, and pecks Riley''s cheek as he does so. With a gulp, I rise from my seat and approach him.

    His eyes widen a little, but not for long. His gaze now looks me up and down as he bites his lip, all in a seductive manner. I can''t help but feel extremely uncomfortable.

    "Handsome, no need to be so insecure." He tries to assure me, closing the gap between us.

    Oh, I''m pretty sure there is! But I need to keep up the act!

    I force a smile and stand on my tiptoes a little to plant a kiss on his cheek. Pleasantly surprised, he draws me in by my waist for a hug.

    This is so incredibly awkward, it''s insane. Now he''s definitely going to think I like him!

    Riley gives me a discreet thumbs up, partnered with a wink. Again, a false smile laces my lips as my heart sinks.

    I''m guided out of the room, tucked protectively under Phillip''s arm after bidding our goodbyes to Riley. He begins to tell me more about Para-Dice and its importance to his line of work, though I''m hundreds of miles away.

    All this for mobility, for so-called freedom. Right now, and this view will be very unlikely to change, I wish Dennis hadn''t turned up so suddenly. Spouting horrifically true sci-fi ''nonsense'', proving it''s indeed real, and much more than I bargained for. Perhaps I shouldn''t blame him, only myself. After all, he didn''t force me, there was no ill intention. He simply wanted what I''ve dreamed of to come true for me. Like any good friend would do... But that''s an issue, friendship doesn''t describe our bond; it never did. And now Phillip''s in the picture... I''m afraid it never will be¡­

    I look up at him still rambling. A tear trickles its way down my cheek.

    Dennis didn''t let me go easily, I know that with all my heart. I can only hope he never suffered the same fate of the disrespectful man.

 Para-Dice

    Chapter Seven:

    I''m not kidding when I say Phillip and I are in a limo right now. I wish I''d listened to his explanations instead of zoning out, because now I''m even more baffled than usual.

    All I really know right now is that we''re picking up a few of his friends on the way to the rogue club named Para-Dice. Oh, and that I need to stick to our group. If I wanna go anywhere, I need to be escorted with one of his trusted colleagues, which is absolutely ridiculous.

    Yeah, I could leg it, I get that. But where would I go? I don''t know this place, I don''t understand it!

    The limo slows to a stop, breaking me out of my thoughts. As Phillip places a hand on my bouncing knee, I look up at his stony expression with a gulp.

    "I''ve heard that Disruled is going to be there." He informs me bitterly then narrows his eyes. "You make any effort to interact with them, and you can expect me to cause a scene. And you don''t want a repeat of earlier, right?" He threatens coldly, glaring deep into my soul.

    I nod furiously, blinking back my tears. I turn my head away from his frightening expression, biting down hard on my trembling bottom lip. His grip on my knee tightens, so much so that I can feel his nails digging through the material of my trousers. With a shaky breath, I warily turn to face him again.

    He waits for me to say something, his brow raised and his lips tightly pursed. That''s when it clicks.

    "S-sorry, Master Reed, I understand." I stutter once I realise.

    Wearing a satisfied smirk, he removes his hand from my knee and drapes his arm over my shoulders. He draws me close to his chest as the driver opens the passenger door to let in the first friend.

    He ducks inside and flashes Phillip a pearly white grin whilst looking between the two of us with raised brows. "Hey, man, long time no see." He greets as he leans forward to fist bump then pull Phillip into half hug. He then takes a seat beside him, undoing the button of his fancy velvet blazer to sit more comfortably. He smooths his hand over his durag, which perfectly matches his suit and nudges Phillip with his elbow playfully. "Who''s this escort? Were the hot ones busy?" He jokes. I instantly tense up, intaking a sharp breath.

    Shit, he''s gonna kill him, too! Plus I know I''m not a stereotypically handsome guy, but all these comments aren''t doing anything for my already non-existent self-esteem! The fact that I feel Phillip tense up as welI isn''t filling me with confidence that he won''t hit him, too¡­

    "He''s not an escort, and if I were you, I wouldn''t take the piss. Someone has already had a bullet in them today." He warns through gritted teeth.

    To my shock, his mate just laughs it off. "Yeah, I heard. Didn''t realise it was over this one, to be fair." He then grins at me, sticking his hand out for me to shake. "Don''t mind the banter, mate. I''m Otobong, but everyone calls me Otto."

    I hesitantly reach out to accept the handshake when Phillip bats Otto''s hand away, which is beyond rude. To be honest, I shouldn''t be surprised.

    "I''m Arthur, nice to meet you, Otto." I greet back with a small smile so at least one of us is polite.

    The driver shuts the door and heads back to the wheel. It''s not long before we''re back on the road.

    "You''ve got issues." Otto sighs, crossing his arms against his chest. "I shouldn''t need the booze in the first fucking minute sitting with you, but damn I can''t be sober right now." He remarks, his eyes searching the area for booze.

    Phillip rolls his eyes and reveals a compartment with a beer cooler. "Finally, something we can agree on!" He chucks a beer Otto''s way, who catches it effortlessly. He then turns to me, showing me two options; beer or cider. I gratefully accept the cider as beer is awful to me and thank him.

    "Look at the coolest shit you''ve ever seen in your lives!" Otto suddenly shouts in excitement. Naturally, we both turn to see him show off his ring then his bottled beer like a magician putting on a show. He uses the open part of his ring to crack open his beer then cheers with a little dance. We both laugh with him.

    "That''s the tackiest shit I have ever seen!" Phillip exclaims as Otto opens my cider for me. He scowls then sits back, taking a sip of his beer. "Good luck opening yours then. This mug ain''t doing it now."

    Phillip shrugs then gets out his keys with a bottle opener keychain. I nearly wet myself with laughter as Otto literally does a spit take. "The fuck!? Same shit!" He says in outrage.

    In the midst of my laughter, I didn''t even notice we had stopped. Another friend now entered the car and slid next to Otto. He''s dressed as smart as the rest of us, but with a flashy tie. I''m so jealous of his long hair that grazed his shoulders, something I dreamed of having.

    "Hey, guys! Starting on the drink without me? No fair." He complains then pouts. He soon lights up when he''s passed one, and Otto once again shows off his ring then complains about Phillip''s comment when he has practically the same thing.

    "He done a literal spit take." Phillip speaks up with a playful eye roll.

    The new guy sighs dramatically and hugs Otto''s shoulders. "Mate, how many times do I have to tell you to swallow?"

    We all burst into laughter that time, even Otto. Well, once he''d shoved him, that is.

    This is insane, you know. I can''t remember the last time I laughed this hard, but this is also the scariest event of my life. I know I should probably just drink the booze and have fun, but realistically, how can I? Phillip killed a man, I''d be surprised if his kill count wasn''t over ten, or possibly a lot more considering how short tempered he is. Not to mention he''s psycho and has a massive crush on me for some reason.

    "How many he had? He''s proper staring into space." The new guy comments. I still haven''t caught his name.

    I snap out of my thoughts. "Barely one. The most I''ve ever had is two and I felt destroyed." I reply with a little laugh.

    Him and Otto boo me then start chanting ''lightweight''. Of course, Phillip pretty much instantly shuts that down.

    We head straight to the club now, as the last person who was coming has suddenly cancelled. I can''t help but feel really anxious about it all for obvious reasons.

    I take the last sip of my cider as we slow to a stop.

    "You better not ditch me again, Ravi. I''m a sensitive soul." Otto says to the new guy with a pout.

    Ravi rolls his eyes then ducks out of the limo. Otto swiftly follows; I can hear him whining like a kid as they walk away.

    As I make a move to leave the car, Phillip squeezes my shoulder and pulls me back into my seat. His face screams of jealousy, which instantly sets me uneasy once again.

    "Remember, I don''t want to see you interacting with Disruled. If you need to go somewhere, you let me know, and either I or one of my men will escort you. No excessive drinking, you can have two more, maximum. Clear?"

    Wow, controlling much? To be honest, I don''t want too many more drinks anyway. I don''t want to gain false confidence and do or say something that''ll get me killed.

    "Yes, Master Reed, I understand." I say with a false smile. It must have been too obvious that it was false, though, judging by the displeased look on his face now.

    I didn''t even nod or not reply this time, why has he got the ass?

    He reaches towards me and straightens out my collar, adjusting my shirt and exposing my chest even more. "You know¡­" He sighs then smooths his hand over the mark and my bare chest, which sends shivers through me. "I hate to admit it, but I get jealous very easily. My first ever partner accused me of being possessive." He frowns then flattens his hand to my chest, as if feeling my heart beat. And trust me, it''s beating very fast right now.

    Why is he telling me this? Acting like this? I really shouldn''t have played along for his sister''s sake!

    "Your heart is pounding." He states then smiles weakly.

    Yeah, no shit! You''re terrifying me!

    I very slowly move his hand away, barely holding back a meltdown as my whole body shakes. "I can''t keep repeating myself, I''m not into you." I blurt out then wince at my stupid outburst.

    Fuck! Well done, you''re dead now!

    Before I can consider legging it, he chuckles manically. My blood instantly runs cold, and I gulp back the dry lump in my throat. I scoot away a little, which he doesn''t get angry about. He continues to laugh as I continue to panic.

    It feels like an eternity passes before he finally leaves his hysterical moment. As expected, his cheerful expression morphs into the stern expression I assume is his default face.

    He uncrosses his legs and leans towards me, resting his forearm on his thigh. He''s so dangerously close that my breath catches. "Arthur, though you are a man, you certainly don''t act like one." He says darkly then pauses. Though I agree with that completely, I keep my lips firmly shut. "You''re just a scared, lonely little boy stuck in a dimension far beyond your capabilities."

    Again, that''s true, not gonna argue, but what is he getting at¡­?

    I squirm in my seat, very uneasy, to say the least. A smirk now plays on his lips. "Breathe, Arthur, you''re turning red." He taunts.

    This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.

    Letting out the breath I didn''t realise I was still holding, he shakes his head with another chuckle. "You won''t survive on your own, especially when you need reminders to breathe." He remarks with a roll of his eyes.

    Pursing my lips, I decide not to rise to his attempts to make me snap back. This time, it''s not as hard to hold back as he is speaking a lot of truth.

    Though because I won''t answer, he grows impatient and grabs me by the collar of my shirt. Embarrassingly, I squeal from the sudden action, my eyes desperate to look away from his demonic glare.

    "I''m not an understanding or forgiving man, Arthur. Though I will propose an offer to you." He says in a soft yet menacing tone.

    With another gulp, I nod slowly. "What is that, Master Reed?" I mutter weakly.

    The scent of his minty yet alcohol laced breath hits my face as he grows closer. His nose rubs against mine as his eyes flutter closed.

    My eyes stay wide open but feel strained and teary as my body still shakes. "I''ll keep you safe and cared for in this dangerous dimension, you can have anything your heart desires." He mutters, resting his forehead against mine.

    "In return?" I squeak, knowing he''d be angered if I didn''t at least hear him out.

    "You''ll be my devoted, loyal partner, and with time, my lover." He finally pulls back a little, allowing me to suck in a much needed breath of air. As he does so, his eyes slowly open and a pout forms on his lips. "It''s all I ask." He reiterates as if it''s a simple request.

    All he asks? I know I''ve gathered he''s delusional already, but this knocks everything else outta the park. I know this next move is risky, but it needs to be asked.

    "And if I decide against that option? What would happen then?" I bravely pose to him.

    Slightly taken aback, he''s frozen for a moment, but soon scoffs and falls back into dangerous territory. "Do you really want to know? If you''re that willing to find out, then go ahead. Be my guest." He spits then furiously gestures for me to leave the car.

    Obviously, I''m still a shivering mess. There''s no way my legs will stand properly even if I really want them to.

    I sit here like a scolded child, bowing their head and pondering the consequences of standing up for themselves. Except for the fact that this guy is a murderer who isn''t afraid to strike again.

    "Well?" He snaps. "I''ve already told you I''m not a patient man, Arthur. You either walk these death sentencing streets, branded with my mark, which doesn''t mean shit in these parts! Or we can go inside and do as planned."

    His glare, as usual, burns into my soul, daring me to hesitate for even a millisecond. Yet again, I gulp back the fear and shakily answer¡­

    "I''ll stay with you, Master Reed." I just about manage to whisper.

    Clearly satisfied, that slappable, proud smirk springs onto his lips. He sits in silence for a moment as if he is milking the moment, waiting to be applauded for threatening me yet again to get his own way. I, on the other hand, am disappointed in myself for backing down. Even though it''s crystal I have no choice in the matter, it still doesn''t help the fact that I feel less of a person. Weak as always, that''s the Arthur we know. Cowardly sheep who''s terrified of the whole damn world, let alone the Paramension.

    "You coming or what!?" I hear a rowdy Otto yell.

    Phillip rolls his eyes then grabs my hand with a vice grip, locking them together before dragging me out of the limo. My jelly legs barely hold me up as he walks in long strides to the bustling line of people anxious to enter the club. It''s clear this is the rough part of town by the poorly lit streets and much less modern looking buildings than the others I''ve seen here previously. In all honesty, it''s still a hell of a lot more modern than home.

    Instead of the stereotypical butch, steroid induced bouncer manning the door, a young woman, about my average height stands tall with her arms crossed under her breasts. She wears a sour expression as Otto pleads for her to let him in beside the roped off line.

    "Wait like the rest of us for fuck sake!" One of the queueing people snarls. Otto throws up his middle finger in response, his eyes not leaving the bouncer.

    Philip pulls me to a stop and rudely clicks his fingers to gather their attention. Everyone immediately quietens down, some even trembling in fear. "Sarah, he''s with me." Is all he has to say before she hastily lets us through.

    As soon as we enter, I cough uncontrollably from the thick smoke that lingers in the stuffy air. The atmosphere itself is far more professional and a lot cleaner than I expected, too, considering it''s supposed to be under the radar. It almost reminds me of a speakeasy in that respect.

    We thankfully pass the smoking area quite quickly, as it seems it disgusts Phillip also, though Otto stays to light one up. We then take a few steps down into a gambling area that seems to deal with odd looking dice with ominous glows to them. People sit hunching over the game table, clutching what''s probably their last notes in their hands, awaiting the result.

    "That''s called Last Clutches, very risky even for the most seasoned gambler." Phillip says when he notices me look that way.

    "How so? I''m guessing it''s not allowed anywhere else." I ask curiously as we pass through.

    A little chuckle leaves his lips. "You''d be right about that, highly illegal. That''s because it wasn''t named lightly. Last Clutches is quite literal if you fall in too deep. The dice are practically a life form from the long lost forbidden dimension, only obtainable through the Mid Market, or black market as the Normension say." He explains, leaving me in awe.

    Fascinating¡­ So much to learn¡­

    Before I can ask another question, someone accidentally stumbles into us, sweating buckets. It happens so quickly, I barely register their action as they zoom away, bumping into many others along the way.

    They''ve either stolen something or seriously pissed someone off. Either way, Phillip is NOT pleased in the slightest.

    "Watch it!" Phillip barks out to him, and I''m pretty sure everyone flinches from his booming voice. Two men now rush after the guy, careful not to even look at us.

    "Over here!" Ravi calls out to us, poking his head around a curtained area not too far away.

    Phillip leads me over to join him. He''d already ordered a round of shots, two of which had already been thrown back.

    We took a seat in the booth, and of course, Phillip sat me as close as he could without having me on his lap. His arm possessively glues to my waist as soon as we''re seated, and he presses a kiss to my cheek. I sit here awkwardly as always, obviously not wanting to return the action.

    Ravi must be good at reading the room, because he raises his brows at our awkward interaction. "Care to enlighten me?" He urges Phillip, gesturing towards me quite rudely.

    Phillip shrugs and clicks his fingers in the air for service, typical of someone like him. "Ravi meet Arthur, Arthur meet Ravi." He says in a stroppy tone then angrily cIicks his fingers again.

    Ravi rolls his eyes and sends me an exasperated look. I nod in agreement, my lips pursed.

    This night is going to be long...

    A lady not wearing much stumbles over and readies her pad and pen with a fake smile. "Sorry, sir, what can I get you?"

    "Better service for starters." He remarks with a shake of his head. "Your finest whiskey and a vodka and coke. Don''t leave me waiting."

    The poor woman barely manages a ''yes, sir'' before rushing away with her trembling self. It''s now even harder not to glare at the monster beside me.

    What possesses a person to act, no, be such a rude prick?

    "So, Arthur, how come you''re Chipless? I''m guessing you''re new to the Paramension." Ravi says, catching my attention.

    Before I can get my words out, Phillip butts in, squeezing my hip. "You don''t have to answer, he''s a nosey bastard."

    My jaw clenches, and I start worrying my frustration is visible. "You''re right, I''ve barely been here a few days. I never had any knowledge of anything beforehand." I answer Ravi, despite the displeased scowl Phillip is wearing.

    He clearly didn''t want me to answer. That''s why he butted in like he did. Honestly, it''s nowhere near a week of being here and having to spend my time with him?

    As soon as I figure out more about this place and how things work, I''m out. Out of this dimension, even if I have to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair. At least I''ll be with Mum, back to how things were. Boring and normal¡­

    I get carried away when deep in thought, so much so that the subject had shifted, and our drinks were placed in front of us.

    I blink a few times to adjust myself and try to refocus on what''s happening around me.

    That''s so weird, I haven''t done anything like that since coming here. It''s insane how quick I''ve adjusted to find that weird. Though I feel I haven''t adjusted in the slightest.

    "Yeah, the Disruled ice queen was sobbing. Never thought I''d see the day!" Phillip exclaims then chuckles, which the others join him in doing. It''s only then that I noticed Otto here now, along with a guy I don''t recognise.

    Is he talking about Eve? When was that¡­? Damn, why did I have to zone out?

    "He''s back in the room!" Otto cheers as he notices me looking around.

    I force a smile, shuddering as Phillip leans forward, pressing his lips against my ear. "Go to the toilets and take a breather. Rhys will take you."

    I nod slowly, grateful for the break. He gestures to the man I didn''t recognise then stands for us to both be able to leave the booth.

    Phillip whispers something to Rhys then sits back down and continues to make jokes with the guys as we walk away. "Yeah, that Dennis is now a member because of the whole ordeal, if you can even call him that. Trust me when I tell you he is getting the shittiest jobs you can think of." They all erupt into even more laughter, yet I''m glued to the spot.

    Dennis was involved? Why on earth would he choose to work for that madman!?

    Rhys now drags me in the direction of the toilets. Probably to prevent me from hearing anything else.

    To be honest, I''m so relieved he''s okay. I knew he must have done all he could to stop Reed from taking- Wait a minute, oh, god¡­ He joined Reed to be closer to me, didn''t he? Oh, Dennis¡­

    A weak smile creeps onto my lips.

    Dennis, you loveable idiot¡­ I won''t leave without you.

    "Go ahead, I''ll be waiting right here." Rhys tells me in a stern tone.

    Slowly nodding, I enter the men''s toilets, which are shockingly spotless. Don''t think I''m complaining, this is a miracle in itself. This place is definitely fancier than its exterior looks.

    After using the toilet, I take my time washing my hands then splash some water on my face.

    I desperately needed this time out, it''s far too overwhelming out there¡­

    As I dry my hands, I suddenly feel a warmth exuding from my blazer pocket. Baffled, I warily reach inside it, pulling out the warm object. Yet it''s not just any object, it''s one of the dice being used on those gambling tables.

    How did this get in my pocket? Surely it wasn''t here to begin with. I feel I''d be in a lot of trouble getting caught with one of these. Do I hand it in?

    "Please don''t, I beg you." A feminine voice pleads, startling me.

    What the hell? There''s no way¡­

    I hold the die a little closer to me, examining it in awe.

    She read my thoughts, right? Does that mean I heard her voice in my head, too?

    "Yes, please don''t speak aloud, I can''t go back there." She cries, instantly pulling my heartstrings.

    Phillip did say they were like lifeforms, but I had no clue they were so intelligent and talkative.

    "And it sounds like they''re holding you here against your will?" I ask in my head, feeling a little silly doing so.

    She begins to glow a deep shade of blue, the warmth dissipating. "Every one of us is. We''re imprisoned and manipulated by the game master to con others for their monetary gain."

    My jaw drops at this information, my blood running cold as ice.

    Oh, god... That''s beyond terrible. They''re living beings!

    As I''m standing there horrified, I hear footsteps then a bang on the door. I nearly drop the poor dice from the jolt that sprang through my body. "Hurry, Arthur, he won''t be pleased if you take much longer." Rhys commands.

    I carefully tuck her in my inside pocket and approach the door anxiously. "I''ll help you, um, do you have a name?"

    "Each of my sides cannot thank you enough. I am Diana Dyson, lady of Boramist. I look forward to our days ahead, Arthur."

    A smile lifts my lips as I open the door even though an impatient Rhys is outside it. He hastily regroups me with Phillip, who surprisingly isn''t bothered by how long I took. He simply scoots over and glues his arm to my waist yet again then continues to chat.

    No one included me, but I wasn''t bothered at all. I was too busy getting to know Diana, relieved to know at least one of us is safe.