《I Became My Unfortunate Female Lead》


 Chapter 1 - Dead End

    "ATHASIA, FROM NOW ON, YOU ARE NO LONGER MY CHILD"


    All of her nerves shuddered. Her knees gave up and slid down onto the cold floor. With her head down, tears welled up in her eyes. As soon as a small sob escaped her lips, she covered her mouth. Athasia knew that her father didn''t want to hear her cry. Her father hated weak people, including her.


    ''What did I do to deserve this, father?'' she thought. ''I did everything you want. I became the perfect daughter in front of your eyes, to everyone.."


    As her tears continuously fell, Athasia remembered everything. Attending elementary graduation as the top student, without a father. She watched all of her classmates with their parents that day. On her seventh birthday, she celebrated it with the maids until she reached 18. Her father never greeted her, nor attended the important events of her life.


    But when she got bullied at school, her father scolded her. He scolded her daughter for causing a ruckus, instead of listening to her side.


    ''Why is it that when something went wrong, you''re always blaming me? Is it because I am your mistress'' daughter?''


    She wiped the tears on her cheeks as soon as she felt her father''s cold gaze. She bowed her head and walked away.


    Trailing the hallways with her heavy footsteps, Athasia met one of her siblings, but instead of helping, her older sister looked at her with disgust, mumbling the words. "Serves you right,"


    She ignored Athasia like she didn''t even exist. Well, she''s used to being an outcast all of her life.


    For Athasia, she was a failure.


    ***


    [Uwaahh~ you are so cruel, author!]


    [I pity Athasia so much, she deserves to be happy]


    [I''m coming for you, author! huhuhu]


    [Who hurt the author? I''m coming]


    [We''re going to burn your house, author! huhuhu]


    [I don''t know, but I am a fan of your bitter sweet tragic novels]


    [I hate you, author! You''re so good at writing angst]


    Littleyoonie, lifted her midnight coffee, taking a sip like a villain in every movie. Satisfied with the comments from her readers, she put down the cup. She curled up on her stomach and laughed out. "HA HA HA HA..Oh my! This is so good! They''re all crying," she exclaimed, grinning very widely.


    ''THE UNFORTUNATE FEMALE LEAD'' the new novel she''s working on, got a ton of comments and votes because of its tragic plot. She''s a sadistic author who likes to see her readers cry and bawl their eyes out every arc.


    For her, a happy ending is not an option.


    Littleyoonie then turned to her laptop and enjoyed reading the new comments popping out. She just finished updating the latest chapter and is now taking a little rest to refresh her brain cells. She leaned on her chair and turned it around like a playing kid. The lady roamed her eyes around her dim apartment.


    She lived alone and was working as a full-time author online. She likes to stay in the dark with only her laptop serving as light. She likes to stay in her apartment all day, admiring the silent atmosphere.


    The lady thought she''ll enjoy the silence until her phone rang very loudly. Littleyoonie immediately picked it up. "What is it?" she frowned.


    The one on the line clicked her tongue. "I saw your update tonight. You are indeed a cruel author," she said between teasing and sarcastic tone.


    Littleyoonie snorted. "Aish! What do you want?" she straightened her back, returning her eyes to the laptop screen.


    "We are having a little celebration here at XX pub..come on! Hang out with us! We are all authors here," the woman on the line, her senior, insisted. She said that this place is nearby littleyoonie''s apartment.


    "What am I gonna do there?"


    "Come on, unless you want me to expose your face to your readers online. For sure, some of them wanted to burn your house, kekeke," her senior teased, which made her sprang up.


    "Fine! I''m going! I''m going!"


    Littleyoonie ended the call, and then she pulled her jacket from the hanging rack near the door. Exiting the apartment with a grumpy face. The truth is, she''s an introvert. Even if she''s laughing hysterically to her crying readers, she''s still scared like a cat with a tail behind.


    "Whatever, I will just spend a little time and head back," she tucked the jacket closer to her chest.


    The night was getting deep, with the moon shining above her. Littleyoonie couldn''t help herself but to imagine another scene.


    ''JUST LIKE THE MOON, YOU CAN SHINE ALONE''


    That phrase suddenly came into her mind. There was something that snapped inside her. "That''s it! I''m going to do character development!" she exclaimed with determined eyes.


    She pulled her phone from her pocket and started to type the new plot of her third arc. It will be when the female lead will change and bloom into a beautiful and adorable character.


    In the middle of the quiet streets, she saw a small silhouette. If there is something that will make her heart pound in excitement, that thing would be a cat.


    Littleyoonie saw a cute black cat in the middle of the street, but when she tried to approach it, it ran to the other side of the road, near the construction site.


    Wanting to save the cat, her legs moved on its own. Ignoring the danger that awaits her, she dashed forward. Little did she know that her actions would lead her to her death.


    Falling into the sinkhole with her last wish. Failing to not give her female lead a character development.


    The last unfinished novel full of sadness and emotions came into her mind while feeling her body falling into the depths of darkness. She retracted her stretched arms as soon as she realized that there''s no one there who''ll save her.


    Because the truth is, even herself, till her last breath, never experienced a happy ending.


    The famous sadistic author who likes to write sad novels met her tragic death.

 Chapter 2 - The Decree Of KARMA

    "Young Miss?"


    "Young Miss, can you hear me?"


    The lady flinched. She found herself sitting on the soft cushion chair in front of the mirror. Behind her was a tall man wearing a black suit. She tilted her head to the side and the reflection in the mirror followed her. Her long, ash brown wavy hair touched her thin and white shoulders. It has two small braids on the side of her ears.


    The lady looked down, scanning her two beautiful hands. She''s wearing a white silky dress, barefoot. ''What.is.this?'' she thought.


    "Lady Athasia, are you with me?" two palms touched her thin shoulders, which made her immediately feel the warmth. "You are spacing out again, Young Miss.." the words from that man prick something inside her. As if she had known him for a very long time.


    Her lifeless luminous amethyst eyes returned to the round mirror in front. She was once again fixated by the figure looking at her. The lady raised her hand and touched her soft pinkish cheeks. From the looks of her, she just finished taking a bath and was ready to go somewhere.


    "Lady Athasia, you need to go to school,"


    That name rang inside her thoughts again. ''Where did I hear it? It''s very familiar to me'' her eyebrows meet between her high-bridged nose. She crossed one arm, resting it on her waist. Poking her forehead repeatedly while chanting the name.


    "Athasia¡­Athasia¡­Athasia.."


    She clicked her tongue, "Athasia¡­Athasia¡­ATHASIA?!!!"


    She sprang from the chair that almost fell on her side. She grasped the man''s arms, scanning him with her trembling hands. Slicked back hair, tall and nice build. A black suit above the white polo and instead of a tie, he used a ribbon around the collar.


    "B-B-Benson?!!!!" she exclaimed. "You are Benson, right?!" Athasia gasped, couldn''t believe what she was seeing right now.


    "Y-Young Miss? Are you alright?" Even Benson was surprised. His usual calm face changed. This is the first time he saw the Young Miss being like this. Athasia never made such big movements in her entire life. She''s always calm and quiet.


    That Young Miss of him, who he just described as calm, slammed both her hands on the table. "No way! I knew it because I''m the one who made him!," she exclaimed, grabbing some strands of her hair. "It''s really ash brown!"


    "Young Miss! Please don''t do that," Benson panicked.


    Athasia ignored him and scanned herself once more in front of the mirror. This time, closer. She blinked her eyes and opened it wide. "Lifeless amethyst eyes," from that, she pinched her face, "Small and pinkish cheeks," she muttered again.


    Taking a step inches away from the table, she turned around and her white silk dress fluttered, making her like a ballerina. Still not convinced, the lady pulled the chair up and put one of her legs on it. She caressed her porcelain skin thigh down to her toes.


    "Young Miss! Please don''t be like that!" Benson exclaimed again.


    Seeing such a bold act from the young lady was enough to put him in dismay. He immediately grabbed Athasia. "Young Miss, please don''t do this to yourself". He showed such pitiful eyes. Even if Athasia was rich and could buy anything she wanted, the man knew that she lacked love and affection. That''s why all the servants didn''t let her feel that way.


    They all nurtured her with love and care. Which she didn''t receive from her family.


    The young lady was taken aback, realizing all of her actions. "Wait, wait, wait¡­" she mumbled. "Let me go first." She got her hand back, which was quickly withdrawn by Benson.


    A wide, awkward smile occupied her cheeks. "Can you please leave me alone for a minute?"


    Benson''s lips parted and gasped, scared that his Young Miss would do something dangerous. However, when he was about to utter a word, Athasia cut him. "Don''t worry, I''m not gonna do something bad, okay?" She gathered herself and did the smallest move by bowing her head, just like the calm person Benson described.


    The man felt very relieved that he immediately left the Young Miss alone.


    As soon as the door of her room shut closed. Athasia jumped onto her bed, grabbed one of the pillows, and rolled side to side. She buried her head in the soft foam and yelled inside. "This is insane!"


    She sat up, still hugging the pillow. "What the heck am I doing in my own novel?!"


    She slapped herself so hard that her cheeks turned very red. "What the heck am I doing here?" she mumbled again.


    Littleyoonie, the sadistic author who went outside to hang out with her acquaintances, fell into the sinkhole after trying to save a black cat. She remembered the shining moon above her that night before her death.


    And her last idea of making a character development. "Just like the moon, you can shine alone''


    Then the tragic story of Athasia Rymerton, the weak and frail highschool girl, struck her mind. Imagining all the things she wrote in her novel made her realize one thing.


    She''s going to experience all of it.


    Her lips parted, and she only uttered one word. "Crap!"


    Littleyoonie, no¨Cshe''s not the sadistic author anymore. Athasia shrunken, and her eyes turned gloomy. Just by remembering all of her sufferings made her dizzy.


    If she really got transmigrated inside her novel, then there''s only one way and one thing she can do


    Change the plot or make herself suffer. Between the two choices, the former was the best and challenging for her.


    A devilish grin stretched across her face. "Oh my poor Athasia, I pity you, but I will not let myself experience even your tragic story" she stood up.


    She''s back at it again. The lively side of her author profile comes back to life with her. Raising her clenched fist in the air. Littleyoonie swore that she''ll going to change the plot and give her female lead a happy ending.


    "Just you wait. The weak Athasia already claimed her character development.. WA HA HA HA!¡­" She laughed out, which made the birds perching on the tree beside the window fly away.

 Chapter 3 - That Rich Girl From The Taxi

    The sun shone brightly on her face as soon as she stepped out. The taxi driver lowered his window and bowed his head after receiving a big tip from his first passenger in the morning. For him, it was enough to feed his big family waiting at home.


    When the taxi finally left, Athasia entered the school. She''s not mistaken. It was wide and very expensive. ''Bow to me, you peasant side characters,'' she grinned. ''I made this world and this school. HAHAHAHA'' She immediately held herself upon seeing a group of students looking at her suspiciously.


    She got everyone''s attention just by riding a taxi on the way to school. The truth is, Benson didn''t let her. He almost pleaded, trying to pull her out of the taxi, but since she already made up her mind, she didn''t back out.


    "Did you see her get out of the taxi just now?"


    "I even saw her smile at the driver,"


    "What? She smiled at that mere nobody?"


    "She''s the illegitimate child of Chairman Rymerton, right?"


    "Yeah, the chairman who owns the Rymer Real Estate,"


    Athasia heard them, loud and clear. Even if she removed her ears, she can still read their thoughts. "It''s so good to be an author" she flicked the side of her hair and it delivered a fragrance to the students walking along with her in the hallways. Mesmerizing and smooth, like the lavenders dancing in the wide field.


    Just like what she wrote, her classroom was on the third floor of building C. In order to enter the classroom, you need to swipe your I.D beside the door handle. ''And who invented this University, of course, the only ME'' she praised herself.


    Her path turned clearer when the other students moved. They all looked away, scared to even touch and talk to Athasia. "What is happening? The atmosphere turned stuffy real quick"


    The answers were right in front of her eyes.


    From the desk where she was supposed to be, two female students were waiting for her. One with blonde hair, thick red lipstick and blush-on. Nevermind the other one, since she didn''t write any details about her.


    Athasia got a clear view of Amber, the girl with the blonde hair, when she put her books under the desk. She ignored them and pulled her chair quietly. Now that she got a chance to meet one of her bully characters, it made her less proud.


    Amber was one of the mean girls who bullied Athasia and made her school life difficult. She liked her lines more, but now that she''s in real life, littleyoonie couldn''t help but sulk.


    She didn''t like bully kids in real life, she''s a victim of them too.


    Humming a nursery rhyme, Athasia opened her physics books and reviewed. They still had half an hour before the professor arrived.


    "Look who''s ignoring who,"


    Amber clicked her tongue and slammed her hands on the desk, which made the young lady surprised, and frowned at the same time.


    Amber almost twitched her lips,couldn''t even believe that Athasia would ignore her. Usually, just by seeing her face, the young lady would already trembled, but she got ignored instead. ''You need to beg for your life now!''


    "Excuse me?" Athasia looked at Amber straight in the eyes. "Can you please remove your hands?" the veins on her forehead pop-up. Now she regrets making Amber the evil character.


    Amber''s jaw dropped. "Ha?!" she blurted out. She''s about to explode, but since she got amused by Athasia''s different approach, she thought that she would also pull a trick from her sleeves.


    "Say Athasia, I saw you get out of the taxi this morning," she grinned, and then the girl beside her also chuckled.


    The Young Miss didn''t remove her eyes from Amber and asked. "So what?"


    Amber was completely taken aback. Even the girl standing next to her, and the students who heard Athasia, answered. Everyone got intrigued that some of them secretly moved closer.


    Athasia remained calm, though she''s loving the attention around them. Thanks to her, the weak Athasia will now debut and spread her wings. The first step of her character development.


    Gnashing her teeth in anger, Amber almost crumpled the pages of the physics book on the desk. She''s very easy to provoke. That''s her character.


    Her hand traveled onto the Young Miss'' cheeks. She clenched it that her newly manicured nails almost dug in Athasia''s face. "Aren''t you scared that I might spread rumors about you having a taxi driver lover? For sure, your father will be disgusted," she emphasized every word, delivering it as a threat before letting go.


    Feeling the deep clench, Athasia massaged her cheeks a little before firing back. "Do you have any evidence?"


    Amber gasped secretly, couldn''t believe that this little angel who turned into something devil today would immediately resist. "O-Of c-course, I have my ways, I d-don''t have any for now¡­" she stammered.


    Athasia''s amethyst eyes gazed at her as her lips uttered. "Then shut the f*ck up,"


    Seeing the other students around them getting all fired up too, to see where this fight is going. Amber finally flipped her last card. She pulled Athasia''s hair, but the young lady was faster than her.


    BAM!


    That sound resounded inside the classroom, making everyone agape. Amber''s face hit the desk above the physics book with her one hand being pulled by Athasia. "You! Let me g-go!" the blonde girl cursed.


    Athasia bent down closer to her ears, "I didn''t know that you loved physics so much. Do you want me to teach you after class?" he grasped Amber''s wrist tighter, just enough to make her whine.


    Amber let out a breath, "I s-said let me g-go!" she didn''t even know that this meek angel was strong. She tried to pull her hand, but didn''t succeed in doing so.


    Only the atmosphere turned light again when the bell for the first subject rang, with their professor entering the door. Everyone went back to their seat, keeping what happened inside their minds.


    Athasia was very sure that after school, she''ll gonna meet Amber to settle the real score.

 Chapter 4 - Revenge For The Errand Girl I

    After the first subject, the second subject will be P.E.


    Athasia gathered all her books, arranging it before putting it under her desk. She glanced at the physics book, which got in the middle of the commotion earlier. Her perfectly arched eyebrows furrowed.


    "Is this a sign?..to hate physics?" she mumbled.


    All of her classmates headed to the locker room to change into their P.E uniform. Athasia was left there alone. She used the remaining minutes from the first subject to wander into that wide classroom.


    Glass windows underneath the thin curtains. Air-conditioned and calm ambiance. All of them have a double desk, one for the books and one for taking notes. Also, the chairs all have soft cushions, preventing your thighs and butt from feeling numb.


    Again, a smirked stretched across her cheeks. "And who do you think made all of these?" she snorted and crossed her arms.


    She dashed in front of the whiteboard, sat on the teacher''s desk, and laughed. "Look! This is all the fruit of my imaginations! I am the GOD here..HA HA HA!"


    "E-Excuse me.."


    The echoing laugh vanished into thin air, and she almost stumbled while jumping off the desk. Athasia cleared her throat, "Y-Yes?" She gazed at the student standing near the door.


    Too bad her almighty scene had been interrupted.


    The girl had short black hair and glasses. She''s small and timid. Trembling hands and down eyes. "S-Sorry to interrupt you, I f-forgot something." she didn''t look Athasia in the eyes as she trailed the small pathway towards her desk. Under it was a small pocket, and from the looks of it, it''s a wallet.


    Athasia remembered her. She''s Callie, the side character who''s always helping Athasia after being bullied. Just like her, Callie came from a rich family, but with loving parents.


    Athasia sighed in relief. ''At least, she deserves a loving family'' she mumbled.


    Callie bowed her head and took the wallet she hid under her desk. The truth is, she lied to Olivia that she forgot her wallet. Because she knew that they would let her buy anything from the cafeteria.


    Even if her parents provided her everything, as the second child, Callie also wanted to prove herself, at least.


    But after seeing Olivia getting all fired up earlier, she couldn''t help but tremble and tell the truth.


    She didn''t want to get involved in another matter anymore, so she ignored Athasia, but when she set a foot out of the room¨C


    "Ah..The Errand Girl,"


    Callie flinched. She gripped her wallet in her hands.


    Athasia clicked her tongue. ''I remembered now,'' she thought. Callie was the errand girl of Olivia, the school princess who only got her eyes for Maximilian Svestin, the male lead.


    Maximilian is Athasia''s childhood best friend. It''s because their families were business partners. But after confessing, the guy started to hate her and distance himself from Athasia. It led him to meet and turned his attention to Olivia.


    Back to Callie. She halted and turned her head. Meeting Athasia with her brown down eyes.


    "We''re having a P.E class, right?" Athasia walked closer to the girl and raised her arms, revealing his wallet. "Then why do you have this? It''s already lunch break after our P.E"


    To her surprise, Callie yanked away from her. "I-It''s none of your business," she exclaimed, holding her other trembling hands. From her heavy breaths, she whispered. "We''re just the same anyway¡­"


    "That''s right," Athasia said. She shut the glass door closed and dragged the girl towards her pace.


    However, before they reached the second building, Callie pushed her and strangled. She already had enough in her hands. Even if she said that Athasia was the same as her, she didn''t want to drag the Young Miss into trouble.


    Before their lips could utter a word, a professor from upstairs passed by and asked them why they''re loitering around. The two girls bowed their heads, and as soon as the professor disappeared from their eyes, Athasia pulled Callie under the stairs.


    "Hey, you''re doing this because of Olivia, right?" Athasia pinned the girl, tight but careful.


    Hearing the familiar name, Callie got stunned. She turned her head away. "What does that have to do with you? Just please let me go ,and mind your own business," she bit her lip. "I-I''m doing this by my own accord,"


    Athasia parted from her, "Then why are you trembling like that?"


    As far as she knows, Callie was a selfless girl. She didn''t want to drag anyone into her trouble. For her, it''s better to suffer alone than bothering others.


    A grin curved Athasia''s lips. She swiftly took the wallet from the girl, leaning closer. "How about letting me do the ''errand girl'' task for today?" She smiled, walking away, leaving Callie in agape.


    ***


    As soon as Athasia reached the cafeteria, she smiled so widely that the janitors on the side, sweeping some dry leaves, found her creepy. They gathered onto the side of building A to chitchat. Wiping the sweats from their foreheads, they glanced at Athasia with such judging eyes.


    "Isn''t that the illegitimate daughter of Chairman Rymerton?"


    "What is she even doing smiling like that?"


    "Did she already lose her mind?"


    Athasia ignored them and was about to approach the vending machine when she heard another word¡ª


    "I saw her ride the taxi this morning. Could it be that her father already banished her from her family?"


    "Isn''t it good for her? After all, her mother was chasing the chairman for money,"


    Athasia retracted her fingers from the machine. A mischievous smile curled her lips as she walked towards the janitors, gossipping about her.


    She stood in front of them, then put her hands on her waist. "If you want to know more about me, just approach me from behind," she winked. "And I will tell you everything,"


    As her ash brown hair fluttered with the wind, the two janitors became embarrassed. They watched her back slowly vanishing in front of them before looking at each other.


    ''She''s scary~''

 Chapter 5 - Revenge For The Errand Girl II

    As soon as she pushed the door, the first thing she smelled was the minty scent of salonpas. Shoes creaking onto the smooth and shiny floor. Students doing laps, playing with balls, and chatting with each other.


    Athasia wiped the edge of her P.E shoes on the mat before finally walking inside. That crowded small pathway cleared up when her line of vision went straight to the girl standing beside her two classmates.


    Olivia''s curly brown hair swayed as she lifted it up to make a bun. She wiped the sweats on her forehead, and it made her look stunning.


    ''What a beautiful two-faced devil'' Athasia thought upon remembering the character she made for Olivia.


    Olivia was a sweet girl in front of her only crush. She did everything to get Maximilian''s attention. But when she''s with her friends, her evil side is very obvious.


    Athasia paused, grinning with the bottle of coke in her hands. She walked forward.


    Olivia then turned her head around, like she''s looking for someone. Probably Callie, her errand girl. After scanning everyone who entered the gym, she frowned. She''s very disappointed that her errand girl didn''t make it quick.


    Olivia just finished playing volleyball, and she''s exhausted that she''s going to gulp anything in one go.


    "Hi, Princess!" Athasia tapped the cold coke on the girl''s cheeks, which immediately turned pinkish. She made a wide smile. Just like an innocent errand girl serving her master.


    Olivia jolted. She distanced herself and scanned Athasia from head to toe. She smiled, a fake one. "H-Hi? Do you need anything?" her sweet voice was cold.


    Even if she wanted to roll her eyes, she held back. Why? Because this is Athasia. Maximilian''s childhood friend.


    She needed to, at least, make a good impression.


    "The teacher suddenly called Callie, so I will be your errand girl for now,"


    Athasia waved her hands and smiled back. "You are so good at playing volleyball," she leaned closer, making her eyes down to the girl''s collar. "It seems like you are very tired."


    Olivia immediately sprang back, getting embarrassed by the sudden closure. ''That brat!'' she cursed Callie in her mind.


    ''What am I gonna do if she told Max about this?'' Olivia panicked. They''re not even close, so that sudden gesture almost creeped her out.


    Athasia showed her the bottle of cold coke. She showed it like a mother surprising her child. "Don''t worry, I brought you a drink,"


    Olivia flinched with her blinking surprised eyes. "T-Thanks.." However, when she was about to get the bottle of coke from Athasia''s hand, the girl pulled it back.


    "Let me open it for you, Princess¡­" Athasia twisted the lid and grabbed the girl''s hand, giving him the bottle of coke. "Here you go, drink to your heart''s content,"


    Dumbfounded, Olivia was left there with the drink in her hand. She looked at it for a while and rolled her eyes to the girl''s back, walking away from her distance.


    "Is she doing this because she wanted to befriend me for Max''s attention?" she clicked her tongue. "Whatever,"


    But as soon as she lifted the lid, the bubbles formed from the bottom of the bottle and it splashed straight to her face, finding out the white mentos inside.


    Olivia gasped and screamed upon feeling the cold pressure of the light brown liquid splattered all over her.


    "Olivia! What happened? Geez!! You got it all over your face." Her closest friend immediately handed her a clean white towel.


    Everyone looked in their direction and everybody witnessed that distorted expression from their school princess'' face.


    Some giggled to themselves and some were surprised.


    Embarrassed and angry, Olivia grabbed the towel and walked out of the gym.


    Meanwhile, Athasia walked away with a mischievous smile on her face, amused by what just happened.


    ''I''m loving the role of an errand girl,'' she thought.


    She made a turn back to her class, and on the bench, she saw Callie. As usual, with her down eyes thinking deep.


    "Hey," Athasia sat beside her. "Am I late? Oh my.." she rubbed her face in dismay.


    "Our P.E instructor let us take a break for a while," Callie answered, still looking down. Her cheeks blushed, and she compressed herself more. Too shy to talk to anyone.


    The girl beside her chuckled, "Is that so?" Athasia took out something from her pocket and gave it to Callie, "Here¡­your wallet,"


    Surprised, Callie''s eyes widened. Her trembling hands reached for it. "T-Thank¡­" she stammered. "Thank you¡­for h-helping me," she added.


    "Don''t mention it," Athasia snorted. "I had fun doing that errand girl thing¡­" she held her stomach and curled, laughing. "D-Did y-you saw her f-face? PWA HA HA HA!"


    Callie got surprised. "Saw what?"


    Athasia laughed again, "Oh my! This is so fun..HA HA HA!" She tapped the girl''s shoulders. "Olivia, I put mentos on her coke and it splashed all over her face.."


    That distorted expression from the school princess played back in her thoughts again, like a picture stored into a camera, ultra HD.


    With her mouth half opened, Callie exclaimed. "You did it?!"


    Athasia tilted her head to the side, putting her index finger on her lips. "..Shhh¡­" then she winked. "It''s our secret,"


    It shut Callie. She didn''t know, but another side of her, jolted. It made her excited and moved at the same time. She put her hand on her chest, feeling her throbbing heart.


    No one ever did it to her. She''s always keeping everything to herself with no help from anyone..


    She''s feeling like she has now found someone she can rely on a little.


    Unconsciously, a smile formed on her lips. "Thank you, Athasia!"


    And just like that, Athasia was also stunned. Callie was a timid character from her novel., and she''s not expecting to see her smile this soon.


    ''Soooo cute!''


    Making a new circle of friends and leaving the traitors behind. Littleyoonie as Athasia, achieved another success. Avenging the meek errand girl and befriending her. She couldn''t help but be proud of herself.


    By putting the right people beside her female lead, this story''s plot will change.


    Athasia sprang from her spot, wrapping her arms around Callie''s shoulders. "Hey, Callie! Want to be my friend?" she asked.


    Hearing that question, Callie blushed. "S-Sure!"

 Chapter 6 - Im Making FRIENDS

    "Okay, that''s it for today! Pick your things. You can have your lunch break after cleaning your areas."


    The P.E instructor said after assigning everyone by group to clean the part of the gym they used. All the students from other sections were already finished. Athasia''s class was left there.


    She stood up from the bench and wiped the sweat all over her face. She''s very exhausted. Athasia loved sports, but she didn''t have the energy to play.


    Just by running all over the court to play volleyball was enough to make her knees weak. She still preferred those otome games she played when she''s still littleyoonie. She remembered all of her screenshots.


    Those masculine tanned 2D men, that made her heart pound whenever she''s playing. Her shoulders shrugged. ''Too bad. I got transmigrated in my own novel, not inside those games. huhuhu''


    She stretched her arms and tilted her body from side to side. "I feel like dying already," she snorted.


    A ball rolled on her feet. It must be one of the balls they used when practicing of serving. Athasia bent down and picked it up.


    The half of her curvy waist almost showed off. "I don''t even like volleyball. Why do I need to practice serving?" she clicked her tongue and frowned. "It''s not like I''m going to join the tournament or something," she complained.


    "Tournament?" A light chuckle escaped from another student''s lips, and her black judgmental eyes looked down at Athasia. "You are too weak to play in the tournament." She took the ball from the Young Miss'' hands and threw it up.


    The ball flew like a ball of fire. She jumped and thrust her palm onto it, letting it fly like a flash of wind to the other side of the court.


    Such a powerful serve!


    As expected from Antonette, the volleyball team captain. Littleyoonie created her as a bad mouthed character. She liked to judge weak people by not even considering their ability.


    Some of her teammates were suffering under her care.


    A perfectionist captain.


    Athasia almost left agape. She admits that she''s quite surprised and amazed, and was a little proud too.


    Everything here is from her novel, after all.


    Antonette turned back to the meek Young Miss with her crossed arms. "Before you hate volleyball, ask yourself first if you can handle such sports," she leaned closer and smirked. "You can''t even protect yourself from bullies."


    She was about to leave when Athasia laughed. She curled like a ball and laughed like she''s throwing some insults.


    "Why are you laughing at me?!" Antonette frowned.


    Athasia waved her hands in the air. "Sorry, sorry..it''s just¡­I didn''t even say that I hated volleyball, and you''re overreacting like this." she said, tapping her stomach from laughing.


    Though she secretly rolled her eyes. ''Shouldn''t you be thanking me for making you the volleyball captain of my novel, tch!.'' But of course, littleyoonie didn''t say it out loud.


    Only in her mind.


    Antonette released a humph sound. "I love volleyball, and insulting it in front of me is unacceptable. I will not let this pass, Athasia," she fired back.


    "Heh~" an evil grin curled up Athasia''s mouth. She remembered the scene she wrote in her novel. The foundation day of their University. Where Antonette humiliated Athasia just because she couldn''t do a single serve.


    Athasia walked past by Antonette and reached for her shoulders. "I deeply apologize if I insulted you, team captain,"


    She tapped the girl''s back and said. "However, If I get the chance to learn volleyball, I won''t be needing the court or a net."


    The veins on Antonette''s head popped out, that she grabbed the weak girl back.


    "How will you be able to play volleyball if you don''t have a net and a court?! Are you really mocking me?!" her eyes turned sharp and her teeth gritted.


    Athasia paused. She slapped Antonette''s hand away and massaged her wrist. "Why would I need the net and a court?.."


    Her amethyst eyes once again gave a chilly glare. "...I can just serve the ball straight to your face anyway.."


    Athasia''s heels turned, and she waved her hands. "Geez, Now I''m hungry¡­" she walked away, carefree.


    While Antonette got glued there, shocked and gnashing her teeth in wrath.


    ***


    "Where have you been?"


    Athasia bumped the girl using her right shoulder. She placed the tray next to hers and sat.


    It surprised Callie. "I went to the s-storage room to put t-the brooms back¡­" she answered despite her stuttering lips.


    Athasia moved out the plate with food and set aside the tray. She took a spoonful and chewed it. "Geez, I thought you left me already," she opened the bottle of soda, and took a sip.


    "S-Sorry, I got too b-busy," Callie said, lowering her head.


    ''She''s too cute, lmao..'' Athasia thought to herself, swallowing the last food inside her mouth.


    She leaned her elbow on the table and cupped her cheeks. "It''s okay. I got some business to attend to." Again, she grinned like a cunning kid.


    Seeing that mischievous smile, Callie gulped. Whenever Athasia showed that to her, she knew that this angel did something again. She then remained speechless and finished her food instead.


    "What b-business a-are you t-talking a-about?" Callie couldn''t help but beamed while asking.


    This is the first time she ate lunch with anyone, and that small kindness from Athasia already got her so hooked. She couldn''t help herself but to ask her new friend. Her eyes elated and she clenched her fist up below her face.


    Athasia smiled at her, "Heh~" and chuckled.


    The sunlight from the west side penetrated through the glass wall of the cafeteria, showering Athasia with the rays of the sun.


    Like a goddess who got blessed under the sprinkle of light, her porcelain skin face became more stunning.


    Athasia brushed her hair back to her ears and gazed at Callie with her illuminating amethyst eyes. "I''m making friends," she said.


    The innocent Callie, who couldn''t even bring herself to talk to anyone and make friends, sprang.. "That''s so cool!" she exclaimed, enthusiastically.

 Chapter 7 - Its Changing!

    AFTER LUNCH BREAK..


    "Everyone take your bags and stand up,"


    The professor put the folder on the front desk. "Today, we''re gonna do a new sitting arrangement."


    Some of the students sighed, the ones who already got close to their seatmates. While some got excited.


    Athasia pulled her bag and went in front, leaning on the side of the open window. Today''s wonderful weather again. She turned her head down and gazed at the wide, empty space of the school. From the front gate, she can clearly see the green trees planted on the pathway.


    "Miss Rymerton, seat 24" The professor adjusted his glasses and checked the box on his folder.


    Athasia shrugged and walked towards the desk in the middle part of the room. Her eyes narrowed upon seeing her new seat. It''s on the left side, which is opposite from the window.


    "Aish!" She slumped her butt and frowned. She couldn''t help but sighed. If only the professor called her first, she can trade with her new seatmate.


    "Do you want to exchange seats?"


    That pleasant and deep voice made Athasia turn.


    Her eyes totally widened upon seeing him. His curly brown hair was reflecting the shades from the thin curtains. Grey eyes and long lashes. He leaned on his desk and rested his cheeks on his palm. "You like sitting beside the window, right?" he asked.


    Athasia gulped, describing that handsome young man. If she''s not mistaken, it''s Ivan Cole. The hard-working and quiet student who always stands in class despite his low profile.


    In her novel, Ivan was the one who helped her when Antonette humiliated her during the foundation day. But after that, he became a total side character left behind.


    Besides, this is not the time for them to meet. Athasia met Ivan for the first time during the foundation day. ''Why is he showing in front of me now?''


    She shook her head and smiled. "If you don''t mind, are you willing to exchange seats with me?" She asked, whispering so that their professor wouldn''t hear them.


    The guy quietly gathered his things and stood up, making a way for Athasia.


    "Thanks," Athasia said. She put her bag under the desk and stared outside the window. Feeling the warmth of the sun touching her face. "It''s indeed a perfect spot," she whispered.


    The class went on without them being noticed by the professor. She''s also thankful that Callie''s seat was behind her. She didn''t have a hard time talking to her during class.


    However, that sudden meet up with Ivan didn''t leave Athasia''s thoughts. She sure wrote this seating arrangement in her novel, but she didn''t write the scene where they exchanged seats.


    She pouted and shrunk her face on the desk above her notes. Even if she wanted to get a hold of the lesson, her mind got occupied by that sudden change.


    Is it because she changed Athasia''s personality the moment she got transmigrated? She thought that events would only change when she put her hands on it.


    A slight poke tapped her shoulders, and it made her look back. Callie smiled at her,giving her a piece of paper. She took it and read what was written.


    "Let''s go to the library after class,"


    Athasia''s lips curved up. She took her pen and wrote something. "Sure!" then she returned her eyes to the front.


    ***


    "What book do you want to read?"


    Callie sprang behind Athasia, who has books in her arms. She put the book on the long desk and sat down.


    Athasia leaned closer and read the title of the books. "You like reincarnations and histories?" she asked


    Callie nodded her head, "Yes!" She exclaimed. She pushed some books towards her friend. "Aren''t you wondering about the reincarnations and stuff? History always snapped a string inside me," she said.


    Athasia moved backward and showed a smile, "Hehe..Is that so?". She chuckled nervously. Because she knows to herself that she also believed that as an author.


    ''I didn''t know that she''s this jolly when talking about history'' Athasia thought.


    In her novel, she didn''t write anything like this about Callie. She just put there that this girl is an outcast and victim of bullies.


    ''Why is everything suddenly changing now?'' Athasia furrowed. She crossed her arms and pondered. ''Did I exaggerate too much?'' she shakes her head. ''No, no, no, that''s impossible. This is my novel, so why would things change?''


    From the side of her eyes, she caught something familiar. That black hair that turns darker purple under the light. A little glimpse of his deep blue ocean eyes gazing at her as he walked towards the other shelves.


    Athasia gulped and held her breath. She clenched her chest, feeling her throbbing heart. She suddenly felt nervous for no reason. That sudden sensation overtook her system, deafening her from her surroundings.


    "Athasia?"


    "Athasia.."


    "A-Athasia? A-Are you a-a-alright?"


    The Young Miss jolted, and her widened eyes looked up at the girl tapping her shoulders. She blinked a couple of times. "Y-Yes?!" Athasia exclaimed.


    Callie couldn''t help but tapped the girl''s forehead. "Are y-you u-unwell?" she panicked.


    Athasia sprang up and exclaimed. "N-No, I''m fine!" She secretly glanced at the spot where she saw that familiar figure earlier, but it''s not there anymore. "My mind suddenly got occupied by something, hehe.." she reasoned out.


    "I-Is that s-so?" Callie pointed her fingers to the librarian''s desk. "The librarian was calling you since earlier," as soon as she said it, the Young Miss dashed straight away.


    Athasia held her breath and smiled at the lady arranging some newly returned books. She picked this book with a silver and gold cover as soon as she saw the student she''d been calling earlier.


    "Good day, Miss..My friend told me that you''re calling me earlier..I''m sorry for not being attentive," Athasia bowed her head. "Uhm..Is there anything I can help you with?"


    The lady pushed the book towards Athasia. "Here, a student came here and asked me to give this book to you.."


    "Eh?! G-Give to m-me?!" Athasia blurted, scanning the beautiful cover of the said book. She leaned closer to the lady and asked again, "Who is that student, Miss?"


    The librarian pondered, putting her finger beside her temples. "A handsome tall young man from the literature department. He has green eyes and grey hair," she said.


    Hearing the lady, Athasia got stunned. There''s only one character that suits that description.


    ''It''s the second male lead!''

 Chapter 8 - Hes Here!

    Her line of sight remained on the book she''s been holding since they exited the library. She couldn''t help, but to wonder why the second male lead would give her a book?.


    Athasia halted ''Wait, I wrote there that he really gave me a book'' her eyes widened. She flipped the book and looked for the last page. There, he saw a piece of paper, a stationary type.


    "Just like the books, I want to accompany you every chapter"


    Athasia was taken aback. She blinked a few times and read the paper again. ''He really gave me a book to confess, but I didn''t write there that he asked the librarian to give it to me,'' she pondered.


    The second male lead confessed to her during the graduation day, but that was also the day when his father already arranged her marriage with the male lead.


    ''Why is everything happening so early?'' She thought.


    Just when she was about to make a turn, a groaning sound from the alley on her left side snapped her senses back.


    Athasia saw Amber with her two girls, grabbing Callie''s hair. Amber had this anger and satisfaction in her eyes. Grinning while holding Callie real tight.


    "Hey! What the fuck are you doing?"


    Athasia walked forward. With no fear in her eyes, she pulled Callie back, who stumbled onto her chest.


    The alley was narrow, so their voices were the only ones echoing there.


    Amber''s eyes seemed stunned by the sudden force, who also grabbed her arms. However, the revenge didn''t leave her eyes. She became more dominant and pushed Athasia away. "Do you think I will forgive what you did in class?!" she snarled.


    A glint of coldness escaped from the side of Athasia''s darkened amethyst eyes. "Why?" her tone was plain. "Because you''re ashamed?"


    She smirked and pushed Amber on the hard wall. The blonde girl was taller than her, but Athasia was the one dominating the situation right now. Even the girl who stood beside Amber couldn''t move.


    Athasia leaned and lifted the girl''s chin. "Tell me, Amber. You don''t like being weak in front of other people''s eyes, right?"


    Amber was left in a daze. She couldn''t move, even though she wanted to push Athasia away. She gritted her teeth, "Let me go, you!" she yelled. "Is this all of your plan?! Acting like an angel to gain other people''s sympathy before completely showing your evil side!"


    Athasia gave her a chuckle before pulling her hair backwards. "So what if I am?" she gripped Amber''s neck. "If I am the evil one, then.." Athasia smirked. "Mind accompanying me to hell?"


    Amber completely shuddered. Her nails almost dug into her closed fist. She''s planning on taking revenge by using Callie as a victim to get Athasia''s attention, but who would have thought that it will end this way?


    Amber was a cunning girl. She came from a rich family and her father was one of the University sponsors. She''s not scared to do anything within her power''s reach. A playful grin occupied her face, and she swung her hands up towards Athasia''s face.


    The Young Miss immediately backed away after feeling something painful on her cheeks. Finding out that Amber had a paper cutter in her left hand.


    "Hurting you a little won''t bother you, right?" Amber laughed. She felt satisfied seeing the small amount of blood from Athasia''s porcelain and smooth face.


    Athasia wiped her cheeks and licked the blood from her thumb. She spit it out and glared at Amber. "You''re a real psycho, huh." she stated. ''Be thankful to me, I''m the one who gave you life in my novel'' she thought as littleyoonie.


    Callie got so stressed that she immediately took out her handkerchief and gave it to her friend. "A-Athasia! The b-blood!" she blurted out, supporting the Young Miss.


    Amber gazed at them with an amused expression, like a kid getting her prize in a game. "I told you to stop provoking me, right?" she grinned widely. "Look at your dear face, it''s all ruined now..do you like my gift?"


    As soon as Amber stepped forward, Athasia pushed Callie behind her because she knew that the girl would do another trick.


    The sharpness of the cutter once again glinted under the setting sun as Amber swayed her hands again.


    "Athasia! Watch out!" Callie screamed.


    And before Amber could ever reach the Young Miss'' face, her wrist got held by someone.


    "That''s enough." That voice was calm yet full of authority.


    Between Amber and Athasia was a young, handsome man. His grey hair was in a mess, like he ran some laps. He''s still catching some breaths from those thin lips, showing a deep dimple.


    Amber withdrew her hands and tried to hide the paper cutter behind when some students who seemed to be part of the school council went on their way.


    "President, what happened here?" one of them asked. She looked at Athasia and was surprised upon seeing her face. "She''s bleeding, are you alright?"


    The young man took out the handkerchief from Athasia''s hand and pressed it on her cheeks. "Does it hurt a lot?" his breath almost tickled the Young Miss'' nose.


    Athasia backed away and pressed the handkerchief with her hands. "I-I''m fine," she mumbled. Callie sprang beside her, "Let''s go to t-the school c-clinic,"


    The young man turned to Amber. "Do you know that what you''re doing is dangerous? What are you trying to do?" He looked at the students who followed him. "Bring these two students to the council and get their names and what class they''re in.."


    And they did what''s been told to them.


    The young man once again turned to Athasia and grabbed her hand, tight but gentle. "Come with me," his voice was pleasant and worried.


    Speechless, Athasia let herself get dragged all the way to the school clinic with Callie behind them.


    She couldn''t speak because even she couldn''t believe what she was seeing right now. Her cheeks flushed as soon as she saw him in that state.


    She adored this character so much in her novel.


    It''s Vincent Skyler, the student council president and the second male lead.

 Chapter 9 - The Knight With A Book

    "Sit here and wait for me," Vincent gently pushed Athasia on the cushion solo chair and made his way inside the school clinic. He scanned the cabinets, looking for the fit medicine to tend the Young Miss'' cut.


    Callie stood beside Athasia with a worried expression. "Are you a-alright?" she lowered her head and tears formed in her eyes. "I-I''m s-s-sorry.." she stuttered, controlling the heavy breaths. "I-I shouldn''t h-have¡­It''s my f-fault,"


    Athasia got surprised. Callie saw those horrible things and ended up blaming herself.


    "Hey, it''s fine.." she wiped the tears from the girl''s cheeks. "I''m their target in the first place. I should be the one apologizing to you," she comforted.


    Vincent went back to them with a medicine kit on his arms. He placed it on the desk and rummaged through the content. He glanced at Callie. "Calm yourself and lay on one of the beds over there, you must have been shocked"


    Callie left them and did what the young man told her.


    Vincent took out a cotton and put some alcohol in it. He paused and looked Athasia in the eyes, "This will hurt a little, grab my wrist if you need to." he lifted the young miss'' chin and pressed the cotton onto her cheeks.


    As soon as the alcohol from the dump cotton tickled the inside of her cut, Athasia winced. Just like what Vincent said, she grabbed onto the young man''s wrist and released the tension.


    She''s not this fragile in real life, but being with Vincent made her feel like she can depend on this person for no valid reason. Isn''t it because he''s the second male lead who loves her unconditionally?


    Littleyoonie adored Vincent so much. To the point that she felt pity for him after the female lead rejected him.


    "Does it still hurt?" the young man parted from her and took a band-aid. "This will cover it for a while," he leaned closer, making his long eyelashes visible to Athasia''s sight. His jade green eyes blinked before finally moving away.


    As soon as the inches between them increased, Athasia''s heart started to beat abnormally. Her breaths turned stiff, and she felt like her chest would burst out. He tapped her chest and glanced at Vincent.


    The young, handsome man was busy putting everything back to the medicine box. He did it gently and quietly, like the calm morning dew embracing the morning sun.


    Vincent isn''t talkative nor that silent either. He enjoys interesting things and would never shut up about it. He always wears this sleepy expression that helps other people to feel comfortable when with him.


    "Can you go home alone? Want me to drive you?"


    Athasia came back to her senses and sprang from the seat. "No! I can go home alone.." she immediately said.


    "I see." Vincent went back to the desk and headed back to Athasia. "Here..your book,"


    Athasia was stunned after feeling the hardcover of the book. It was the one she received earlier. "T-Thanks," she mumbled.


    She got so distracted that she didn''t even see the young man pick it up before they went to the clinic.


    That stationery paper from the back of the book fell on the floor. Athasia picked it up and read what''s written on it again.


    She grabbed Vincent, "Wait!"


    Seeing her sudden reaction, Vincent was also surprised. His eyes traveled down to his sleeves, which were held by Athasia''s frail fingers. "What is it? You need something? Are you hurt elsewhere?" he asked.


    Athasia lowered her head, "The book," she whispered. "W-Why did you give it to me?..with the letter,"


    Vincent removed her hands from his sleeves and grabbed it instead. "Does it bother you? I''m sorry," then a glint of sadness escaped his jade green phoenix eyes.


    Athasia pulled her hand away as soon as she felt her heart pounding again. She turned around and gripped the book tight. "N-Not really..thank y-you" she said.


    She trudged towards Callie, who immediately sprang up from the bed the moment she pushed the curtains.


    Athasia smiled at her. "Are you calm now?" she held the girl''s hand. "Let''s go home,"


    ***


    "Young Miss! What happened to your face?!"


    As soon as she arrived and opened the door, everyone came dashing towards her. Benson was the first one who asked her all the way to her room.


    "Young Miss, are you really okay? What happened to your face?" He caught the shoes that were thrown at him.


    Athasia put her bag on the bed and untucked her coat. "I''m fine, I just tripped over at school..I want to take a bath" she sighed and sat down.


    Benson nodded his head, "I will prepare a warm bath for you, Young Miss.." then he walked away, closing the door.


    Athasia lay flat on her soft bed and let her sight enjoy the empty white ceiling. She rolled on the side and hugged a pillow. She stretched her hand and reached for the book near the bag.


    "What is this book all about?" She raised it in the air and flipped the cover. The words started to form a title to her. ''THE PRINCESS WHO COULDN''T CRY''


    Athasia furrowed. "What a weird title," she uttered.


    A knock echoed behind the door. "Young Miss? Your bath was already prepared¡­" It was Benson.


    Athasia sat up and wore her cotton slippers. She stretched her arms before opening the door and smiling at Benson. "Thank you,"


    As the two trailed the pathway, another maid greeted them and bowed her head. "Young Miss, Master Rymerton ordered me to call you," she said, her hands were trembling.


    Athasia paused and looked at the maid''s shaking expression. She clicked her tongue like she already knew the reason. "Where''s father?"


    The maid glanced at her before lowering her eyes. "In his study room," she meekly answered.


    The Young Miss passed by her without any hesitation, with Benson following her behind. The maid couldn''t do anything but to retract her hand that was about to stop Athasia.


    "Please be fine, Young Miss¡­" she whispered, hopeless.

 Chapter 10 - Meeting The Father

    "Young Miss, Master Rymerton ordered me to call you"


    Athasia paused and observed the maid, who called her. She can already feel the tension in the atmosphere.


    "Where''s father?"


    The maid bowed her head. "In his study room" she waited for Athasia to dismiss her, but to her surprise, the Young Miss just smiled at her and passed by, with Benson behind.


    Littleyoonie knew that room very well. In her novel, it was the place Athasia hated the most. She fears even just by standing behind the door.


    But now, everything will change. She clenched her fist and walked with a light heart. Whatever his father will do, it will never reach her.


    That''s what she said to herself.


    "Young Miss," Benson grabbed the knob for her, but before opening it, he gazed at Athasia with such comforting eyes. "Do you want me to accompany you?" he asked.


    Athasia shook her head. "No need," she replied. "Go back, I will go inside on my own.."


    Although, instead of walking away and leaving, Benson stepped aside and stood beside the door. He bowed his head and told the Young Miss that he''ll going to wait.


    Athasia opened the door and entered inside.


    Big window behind those thin curtains. A tree beside the glass, reflecting the birds perching on the tree. Rows of bookshelves with arranged books. Soft mat carpet all the way to the desk in the middle of the room.


    In front of that desk was a man in his 40s. He had these emotionless amethyst eyes, looking straight at his daughter like he''s already waiting for her. Quite broad shoulders and ivory tanned skin. Wearing a black suit with two untucked buttons.


    His body physique was well maintained for his age.


    He is Alexis Rymerton. The Master of this house, Athasia''s father.


    The Young Miss lifted the side of her school uniform and bowed her head. "Greetings, father.." she greeted him.


    Alexis didn''t change his emotions. He put the newspaper he''s been reading on the desk and leaned closer, crossing his arms. "You just got home? Do you know what time it is?"


    Athasia felt that cold and deep voice. As if he''s asking her using his authority, not because he''s a father.


    "I apologized, I bumped into trouble by picking a fight with some rats from school.." she answered, very careless.


    Alexis clenched his jaw and tried to lose the watch from his wrist. "And what did you do with those rats?" Unlike Athasia, his eyes were more dominant.


    Athasia remained calm. She smiled cunningly and said. "The truth is, I''m planning on making it a pet, but I got unlucky and it sli¡ª"


    "ENOUGH!"


    That rough and deep voice resounded in the room, making the Young Miss startled. When she looked back at her father. The files that were on the desk were now scattered everywhere.


    "HOW LONG ARE YOU PLANNING TO GET MY ATTENTION?! AREN''T YOU ASHAMED?!"


    Alexis slammed his hand on the desk. Clenching his jaws. "YOU THINK THIS IS FUNNY, ATHASIA?!"


    Athasia felt the chills after hearing her name.


    In the novel, the real Athasia will cry and kneel down. Begging for her father''s forgiveness while completely getting ignored. Since Athasia was an outcast, his father only cared if she made mistakes.


    "Why? You call me for that, right father?" Of course, she''ll never be the weak one. Athasia raised her head and looked back at her father. "You called me because you wanted to point out my mistakes, right?" she added.


    A slight smirk stretched her face. "It''s my fault anyway.." she pointed the band aid on her cheeks. "Look father, I even got myself hurt because I am very stupid.." She emphasized the last word.


    Alexis didn''t even find it funny nor amusing. He picked something and threw it in the air. Luckily, all he got were the papers and folders left. "Do you know what mess you made?! You dare damaged my reputation by using my surname?!" he yelled.


    The Young Miss bent down and picked up everything one by one as if she heard nothing.


    "ATHASIA! ARE YOU EVEN LISTENING?! YOU''RE ALWAYS USELESS!"


    Her hands trembled, and she clenched the last paper on the floor. Athasia paused, gulping the heavy feeling that suddenly jolted inside her the moment she heard those words.


    ''Useless huh..'' she thought.


    There''s no use in explaining what happened and her side since her father would not believe her. Even if she cried and apologized so many times like the real Athasia did, things won''t change, so it doesn''t matter.


    Why did she make this character, though? Littleyoonie can just make another character for Alexis. She can make him a good and loving father in her novel.


    There''s only one thing in her mind while writing this scene.


    It''s because her father abandoned her and she hated him so much.


    Once again, Athasia tried to make a straight face. This is a novel, not a real world, so she needed to hold back.


    She placed the documents on the desk and faced her father. "I appreciate the compliment, father.." her voice was about to crack, but she held it well.


    "But I will never apologize.."


    That pride hit Alexis. He stood up and grabbed his hair. "Who taught you to disobey me, you brat?!" He exclaimed. "I will cut everything from here.."


    Athasia raised one of her brows. "And then what? You''re going to throw me away?" she released a prideful ''humph'' .


    "You can take anything from me, I don''t care.." she leaned and put her palm on the desk, crumpling the documents she just picked earlier. "I will not beg for your attention anymore, do as you please.."


    She turned around, hearing his father cursing her from behind. Athasia didn''t look back, nor shot a quick glance.


    She opened the door and surprised Benson, who indeed waited for her. She walked in heavy footsteps in the hallways.


    "Young Miss!" Benson called out, catching her pace.


    Athasia halted. She turned her back.. "Benson, find me a part-time job¡­" she ordered.

 Chapter 11 - Meeting Him Unexpectedly

    Benson halted as he put his palm on his mouth, taken aback because of what he heard. "Young Miss, are you sure?" he asked.


    Athasia turned around as she twisted the doorknob. "Yes, I am serious in looking for one.." she was about to walk in when she said something again. "Don''t tell them that I am the Rymerton''s daughter.."


    Benson nodded his head and walked away.


    The Young Miss walked inside and dropped herself on the soft bed. She again stared blankly at the ceiling, recalling what happened a while ago.


    She admits that she''s still not ready to meet her father this early. Because truthfully, she really wanted to avoid Alexis Rymerton in the best way.


    As littleyoonie, she wrote that scene with a grin on her face. Just by delivering emotions to the chapter was already making her expect sad comments from her readers.


    But after experiencing the real character, she couldn''t help but feel stingy inside her heart.


    Littleyoonie grabbed her chest. She released a heavy sigh. "Now I pity Athasia¡­" she mumbled.


    She kept that thought until she fell asleep, forgetting to take a bath.


    When Athasia woke up, it was already evening. Benson knocked on her door and asked her to eat dinner.


    The Young Miss changed into a sky blue dress before walking outside. She didn''t tie her hair. She let it flutter along the way as she trailed the stairs down.


    The servants lined side by side and greeted their Young Miss. After seeing Athasia waving her hand, everyone scattered like ants, going back to their stations.


    As soon as she sat down, the house chef served her dinner.


    Athasia looked forward and saw the empty seats in front of her eyes. The table was long with six chairs, but it felt bigger because she''s alone.


    "How about father?"


    The house chef flinched. He clenched the tray he''s been holding and bowed his head. "The master has not yet returned to the mansion, Young Miss.."


    Athasia got surprised by her own words. She even fell silent for a second before opening her lips again. "I see.."


    The house chef bowed his head and went back to the kitchen.


    Athasia picked up the spoon and took a spoonful of the food served in front of her. However, when she was about to deliver it in her mouth, she paused.


    As littleyoonie, she''s used to eating instant ramen and biscuits while writing and finishing her script. Since her budget was always tight, she''s always dreaming of eating delicious foods and well-cooked meats, but after seeing it, she suddenly lost appetite.


    She suddenly felt empty inside upon gazing at that long, quiet table.


    Athasia stood up, which made the maid standing at her right side worried. "Young Miss, what''s wrong?" she asked, wanting to pat the young lady''s back. "Is the food not to your liking?"


    Athasia shook her head, "Fixed this all. I don''t feel like eating tonight. I''m going to eat outside.." Then she walked away.


    The maids looked at each other with a sad expression. They thought that after waking up today, the liveliness from the Young Miss wouldn''t vanish.


    "They rarely use the dining table since Master Rymerton was always eating outside with his business partners too..I pity the Young Miss." they thought.


    ***


    As soon as she opened the door, she grabbed the grey jacket hanging behind the door.


    On her way to the corridors, she met Benson.


    "Good evening, Young Miss..Where are you going at this hour?" he asked, handling the folders. "This is the possible hiring establishment near our area that''s accepting students who like to do a part-time job.." he explained.


    Athasia didn''t get the folder nor check it. She asked Benson to put it inside her room because she''s out for something. When she was about to step down on the stairs, Benson came running towards her.


    "Young Miss! Where are you going? Do you want me to call the driver?"


    "No need, I''m going to the convenience store to buy something.." then Athasia completely vanished from his sight.


    The cold road welcomed her as soon as she walked meters from the Rymerton mansion. She almost got lost because of that spacious house.


    Luckily, there was a convenience store meters away from her place. Athasia tucked her jacket closer to her chest and made big walks.


    She felt like eating instant ramen instead of moving those delicious foods from the table, where she felt very foreign. Even as littleyoonie, she never experienced eating with her family while growing up, so pushing herself to fit inside this novel is quite hard.


    ''Why did I even write about such a luxurious mansion and living for my female lead when things will just end like this?'' she sighed as littleyoonie.


    Athasia pushed the door of the convenience store and made her way to the food section.


    The ambiance of the air-conditioner was very fine and so her mood not until she caught a glimpse of someone she shouldn''t be seeing right now.


    The threads of his black hair that turns to darker purple when being illuminated under the light. His tall, athletic physique that stands out in the crowd. His posture with one hand in his pocket while talking to the crew.


    Wearing that elegant aura in his fashionable, simple clothes.


    Athasia''s world stopped. Her body slowly moved forward like a frozen rock. She hid behind the stalls with half of her head peeking out.


    If there was another person that she wanted to avoid the most in this novel, it was him.


    Litteyoonie knew his characteristics so well. He had no mercy on whoever was in front of him.


    Athasia bit the tip of her nails and mumbled to herself. "What is he even doing here?" Feeling the cold sweats from her forehead, she compressed herself in the corner.


    What in the world was Maximillian Svestin, the male lead, doing here?!


    There''s also one thing that made her breath stop and turned her chest nervous. Like a reader, opening a new book and getting to know the characters, Athasia also felt that way.


    Because her own male lead was very handsome in real life!

 Chapter 12 - Im Not Hitting On You!

    ''What the heck is he doing here?!''


    Athasia yelled in her mind. She should be buying her favorite seafood instant noodles and enjoying it on the table near the glass wall. She should be full by now, but all of those thoughts shattered into pieces upon seeing Max.


    Another disaster!


    Of course, she''ll never give up. Athasia tugged her hood up to cover her face, then she immediately picked the food she wanted. Instead of eating it in the convenience store, she has decided to just devour it at home.


    There were other customers lining up at the cashier. Luckily, she was meters away from the male lead. She lowered her head while secretly glancing at Max.


    Her eyebrows furrowed. "Why hasn''t he left yet?" she whispered to herself. ''I just want a quiet night,'' she mumbled.


    Finally, Max walked towards the door while talking to one of the convenience store clerks. He kept on looking at his phone as if he''s checking something.


    ''If you''re busy, then just leave..Geez! I don''t want to see you.'' Athasia mumbled to herself again, glaring at Max.


    She''s too busy that the customer next to her needs to push her to realize that it''s her turn. Athasia apologized and let the cashier punch what she bought.


    When they settled the price, the cashier asked her if she wanted to pay it in cash or card.


    Athasia rummaged through her pocket. She did it for almost a minute, then she smiled back at the cashier.


    "I didn''t bring anything.." she nervously said.


    The cashier looked at her suspiciously. "But I already punched it. Miss," she said, devastated. The other customers lining behind Athasia get intrigued why they''re taking so long.


    "Hey, are you dumb? Why did you buy that if you don''t have money?"


    "Yeah, hurry..We''re waiting here.."


    Athasia gulped, feeling the embarrassment. She just wants the ground to open up and swallow her whole. "I''m really s-sorry! C-Can you w-wait me h-here? I forgot my wallet at home.."


    The customer behind her back clicked her tongue. She was an old woman and from the looks of it, her back was almost hurting from standing in line. "What do you think you''re doing? Do you really have money? You look very suspicious.." she nagged the cashier. "You should call the police."


    "P-P-Police?!" Athasia panicked. "W-Wait! This is a misunderstanding! I really forgot my wallet at home. I''m not a thief, believe me!" she exclaimed, waving her hands in the air.


    The other customers started to complain and tried to pursue the cashier to call the police.


    "What happened here?"


    That deep but pleasant voice shut up everyone. A tall, young, handsome man appeared in front of them. Of course, Max will not let a small commotion slide. His father ordered him to monitor the branches of the companies they''re investing in.


    Their family was the number one investor of this establishment. That''s why he''s here.


    As soon as he heard the minor disturbance, he immediately stepped in.


    Max found this mysterious girl in a gray hood, covering her face with her shaking voice. She thought that she''s an elementary student because her voice was nice and cute. As soon as he stood there, he realized that she was up to his shoulders.


    "Sorry for bothering you, sir.." the cashier bowed her head to Max. "This young lady over here bought this without even realizing that she had no money with her.." she explained.


    Max shifted his gaze to the young lady, who''s lowering her head from embarrassment. "Are you an idiot?" he asked.


    As soon as Athasia heard that, she immediately cracked like a stone. The nerves on her temples popped out as she clenched her fist. It''s good that she''s still wearing her hood, or else Max will see how irritated she is.


    ''Who are you calling an idiot?'' she thought.


    Max had no time to wait for an answer. As his father''s proxy, he needed to act professional. He took out his black card from the side of his coat. "How much is it?" he asked, handing it to the cashier.


    Seeing his black card, everyone in the store bawled their eyes and was left in agape, except Athasia, who''s wishing to bury herself right now.


    The cashier took the black card with her trembling hands and swiped it at the small machine near the monitor. She put everything in a paper bag and smiled. "T-Thank you f-for your patronage.."


    Max took his card back and stared at the young lady. "What are you doing? Take it and hurry.." he said before walking away.


    Athasia jolted and grabbed the paper bag. She said thanks to the cashier and walked out. Running to where Max was going.


    The night was a bit chilly, so her breaths were heavier than normal. She ran and called the young man. "W-Wait! Wait a minute!" she yelled.


    Max was about to open the door of his black car when he saw the lady waving at him. He drove alone since he didn''t want to depend on his driver that much.


    His arched eyebrows frown and a glint of coldness escaped his pure obsidian eyes. He had no time to deal with strangers. His time was gold, and it''s not his problem if the lady had no money with her.


    "S-Stay right there! Maximilian Svestin!"


    Max flinched, loosening his grip on the car door handle. ''How did she know me?'' he thought, looking back at the young lady.


    Athasia managed to reach him. They were now one meter from each other. She took a deep breath and faced the handsome man. "W-Why d-did you do that?" she asked.


    Max was taken aback. "What?"


    Athasia stretched her arms, the one with the paper bag. "Here, take this..I don''t need any help from you and besides, I didn''t ask you to pay for me. I apologize if I cause you trouble.." she bowed her head.


    Max lifted his wrist and checked the time from his watch. "Is that all you got to say?" he asked.


    Athasia nodded her head. "Yes, so please take these. I don''t ne¡ªHey! Where are you going?!" She dashed right away when Max got in his car and closed the door. Ignoring her completely.


    She tapped the car window. "Hey! I''m still talking! You brat!" she yelled.


    The car window slid down. She once again met the handsome face of her male lead.


    Max leaned his back and didn''t even look at her. His eyes remained in font. "I didn''t know what your true motives were, but I will not waste my time on you. Go home" he clicked his tongue and pushed the button, getting the windows up.


    "Ladies these days are so bold," he whispered.


    His last words struck Athasia. Her hood was still on her head, so probably Max didn''t recognize her.


    She froze there and watched the black car disappear from her sight. Athasia almost crumpled the paper bag in so much anger.


    "Maximilian Svestin!! I will sue you!!" she screamed.

 Chapter 13 - He Has A Short...What?

    "Young Miss, are you really sure about this?"


    Benson couldn''t help but be worried. Seeing Athasia riding the bicycle for the first time. He brushed his face. His Young Miss never rode a bicycle because she''s scared that she would fall.


    He took a step and stretched his arms. "Young Miss, the road was dangerous. What if you accidenta¡ª" before he could speak, Athasia cut him off.


    "I don''t want to grab everyone''s attention by riding my father''s expensive car. Tell Mr. Li to rest, I will take care of myself," she said, putting her headphones on her ears.


    She flipped the stand and put her feet on the pedals, twirling it 360 with the hem of her blue coat fluttering. "Bye bye!"


    Benson slumped down with his dismay expression. He felt the guilt while asking himself if where did he go wrong. He stayed by the Young Miss'' side for her whole life and seeing her like this was a little shock for him.


    The maid beside him blinked. She patted the butler''s head. "It''s okay, Mr. Benson. The Young Miss is not a kid anymore.." she commented.


    Athasia rode the bicycle successfully. She stopped in front of the gate and let the guards inspect her. She saw the two sweepers she met the other day beside the cafeteria. She remembered them gossipping about her. Athasia winked and smiled at them while pulling her bicycle with her.


    They immediately averted their gazes and acted like they didn''t see someone. ''Involving with her is scary''


    Suddenly, all of the students, especially the girls, dashed forward to where Athasia was walking. She was startled that they almost bumped her shoulders. All of them went to the gate, very excited.


    "Kyaaaaaaa~"


    "He''s going to school today! So lucky to see him!!"


    They screamed with their hearts out, showing in their eyes. As all of them gathered at the front gate, when a black car stopped.


    The door opened up, and it spat a handsome young man wearing a white polo above his blue coat.


    Unlike other students, his was darker blue. Paired with his hair that turns purple under the sunlight. Two guards stepped out and walked behind him, making sure that none of the students would touch him.


    Maximilian ignored the students, shouting his name. If he had a type, he preferred the fierce ones. Thinking about it, his lips curved into a slight smirk.


    He suddenly remembered someone like that.


    Athasia watched the extravagant entrance of the school prince. She couldn''t help but twitched her lips while imitating the crazy female students. "Kyaaa, he''s here¡­ the man of my dreams¡­" she rolled her eyes.


    "Man of my dreams, my ass¡­" she snorted.


    However, when she turned right, she saw Callie looking at her, as if she''s observing Athasia''s twitching face.


    She immediately fixed her expression.


    Athasia cleared her throat. "Hey Callie! You''re early.." she wrapped her hands around the girl''s arms.


    Callie lowered her head and fidgeted with her fingers. "I''ve been w-w-waiting f-for you¡­"


    "Is that so?" Athasia leaned closer to her. "Were you waiting too long? I rode my bicycle today." Her eyes pointed towards the bicycle section near them. Hers was chained already.


    Callie swayed her hands in the air. "Not really, it''s okay.." then her eyes went to the students hovering at the front gate, following the pace of the young, handsome man they''re admiring.


    Athasia paused and noticed her. "What''s wrong?" she can already feel something. "Do you like him too?" she asked with a disgusted face.


    "Mmm.." Callie shook her head. "I was just wondering. He''s so p-popular yet he didn''t give a care to t-the girls f-following him around." She said. "I mean, he''s not a-always at school. Did he h-have any f-friends?"


    Athasia paused. It''s true that Maximilian rarely comes to school. He''s used by homeschooling. Even at a young age, his parents already introduced him to the world of business. As far as littleyoonie can recall, Athasia was the only friend Maximilian had.


    "You guys were childhood friends, right?" Callie asked, looking straight at her.


    The Young Miss nodded her head. "I can''t deny that." She shrugged her shoulders. "Who cares? We''re not that close now." she walked forward, trailing the hallways.


    Callie grasped her bag and caught her friend''s pace. "Did y-you two f-fight?" she asked, getting intrigued.


    She wanted to know more about Athasia. They are friends now, so she would like to know her more. She kept on circling Athasia, waiting for an answer.


    "It''s not really a fight.." Athasia averted her gaze. She''s not the real female lead, so it''s a bit off if she told Callie that she''s avoiding him on purpose.


    The girl leaned closer to her. "Don''t tell me, he''s bullying you too." Callie halted and her eyes turned pitiful. She suddenly felt guilty about it. She pushed Athasia to the max. "I''m s-sorry, I s-shouldn''t ask y-you." She mumbled.


    Athasia halted too and looked back. "Why are you apologizing? It''s not like that." she smiled at Callie. "I have another reason¡­"


    Callie got her hope back. She lightened up once more and walked beside the Young Miss. "I will keep it a secret if you tell me!"


    After all, keeping each other''s secret was a strong foundation of friendship.


    A cunning grin stretches Athasia''s cheeks. She pulled Callie closer. "It''s because¡­." her lips moved closer to the girl''s ears. "It''s because he has a short¡­" the rest was a whisper.


    Callie got stunned, her face blushed as she covered her lips. Couldn''t believe what she heard.


    Meanwhile, Max suddenly felt chills run down his spine. His nose got itchy, and it made him sneeze.


    "Young Master! Are you okay?" One of his guards handed him sterilized wipes.


    Maximilian wiped his nose. The cold morning air blew into him, fluttering the sides of his hair. "I felt like someone just gossip about me.." he uttered.


    The guards got shocked. "Do you want us to look for them, Young Master?!" they asked, so eager to serve their Master like dogs.


    Max took his bag from them. "It''s okay, fetch me after school..." then he walked away.

 Chapter 14 - Lets Revoke Her Last Card

    "Please take a seat everyone, I''m going to announce all your test results"


    The professor tapped the desk with his palm three times to get the attention of his students.


    Everyone took their seats and listened to the man in his 40s standing in front. He adjusted his glasses. "First of all, I would like to congratulate the student who got the perfect scores of all the subjects. I will post the results later at the bulletin board at the back of the classroom." He stated.


    Hearing that they have someone who got perfect scores in all of the exams, their heads look at each other with the same questions. ''Who might it be?''


    However, Littleyoonie was different. She got nervous because she didn''t recall taking the exam as soon as she got transmigrated. Could it be that before that, the tests were already done?


    She leaned on the desk and started biting her nails, tapping her one foot under the desk non-stop. She had these habits even before. When she''s stressed to catch up on the deadline of her script or when she''s having a hard time to think of what to write.


    "Don''t bite your nails, you''ll hurt yourself"


    That light grasp around her wrist made her flinched. Athasia slowly turned her head and saw Ivan staring at her. Although he''s wearing this calm and plain expression, the worries in his eyes were showing.


    "Athasia Rymerton, congratulations¡­"


    Everyone clapped their hands and looked at Athasia, who immediately sprang from her seat with a startled expression. "W-W-What''s w-with m-me?!" she blurted out.


    Mr. Sung, the professor, clapped his hands and showed all the test papers with Athasia''s name on it. It''s all perfect score. He smiled and said congratulations again.


    Athasia''s eyes widened. She went in front to get all of her test papers. She checked it carefully, and it''s really all perfect. The Young Miss bowed her head and went back to her seat.


    The lively atmosphere in the class vanished immediately when Mr. Sung announced the last place. And to Athasia''s surprise, it was Amber. The girl who''s always with her was second to the last.


    The blonde girl stood up, secretly gnashing her teeth. That humiliating atmosphere completely ate here when the professor scolded her too.


    Her seat was in the back row and the moment she passed by Athasia''s seat, her eyes were full of wrath.


    Instead of getting scared, Athasia leaned her head sideward and looked Amber in the eyes with a smirk until she took her seat back.


    It made the blonde girl furious that she almost crumpled her test papers.


    The lesson started as soon as everyone got their papers. The professor also left them some homework. He also told them that the results for each class will be posted on the bulletin board at the main building.


    Hearing this, Amber became more anxious. It''s not only her classmates, but the whole University will see how bad her scores were.


    Of course everyone will pay attention to her name, since she is the daughter of the school''s second richest sponsor. An evil idea came to her mind as soon as the class ended.


    LUNCHTIME..


    "A-Athasia, l-let''s e-eat lunch together!"


    Callie showed up as soon as she closed her book. The other girl smiled and patted her on the head. "Sure, let''s find out the new menu today.." Athasia replied.


    When she was about to leave her desk, the side of her eyes went down on the young man sunk into his desk. She recalled Ivan stopping her stress earlier.


    "Ivan?" Athasia called out, poking the male''s shoulders. "Are you okay?" she asked, leaning closer.


    Ivan turned around and exposed his red face with his panting breaths. He''s quite hot and gasping.


    "Ivan?!" Callie moved and tapped the young man''s forehead. "You''re hot. You''re going to have a fever," she said, looking at her friend.


    Athasia, of course, wanted to help. She told Callie to stay with Ivan for a while because she''ll going to ask for medicine at the school infirmary.


    She exited the classroom and walked the busy hallways. The infirmary was on the fourth floor, only two stairs from their spot.


    Since it was lunchtime, all of the students were gathered on the lower floors. The fourth floor will become really empty if it''s not for the 2nd faculty office.


    Every building has two faculty offices.


    She was about to pass by quietly when she heard something inside. Like a crashing sound or a loud thud.


    Athasia got curious, so she immediately peeked from the small space of the door. She tried to roam her eyes in that two inches space.


    As soon as she hit the spot where their professor''s desk was, she jolted and got agape. She clenched her fist upon seeing Mr. Sung pinning Amber down on the desk.


    Athasia got stunned. As the author, she described Mr. Sung''s character as a righteous man, so it was impossible for him to do this. Besides, her professor had this shaking expression on his face.


    It''s like he was being threatened and he felt himself powerless.


    The Young Miss was about to get convinced when she heard another familiar voice inside. It made her think that something was really off inside.


    Athasia gently pushed half of her head to take a good look and, as soon as she grasped the real situation inside, a grin stretched across her face.


    Who would have thought that Amber would go this far to hide her embarrassment? She''s indeed a threat, not only to the students but also to the professors.


    The Young Miss took out her phone from the pocket and started filming what''s happening inside. She didn''t take long since she still prioritized helping Ivan first.


    She closed the door as if nothing happened, heading to the school infirmary near the faculty room with a cunning smile on her cheeks. Completely erasing the trace of her, passing by.


    "I''m sorry, but I need to revoke your last card," Athasia whispered.

 Chapter 15 - Use Your Small Brain Well, Amber

    Athasia returned to the classroom pretty fast. She also bought water for Ivan on her way. She immediately let the young man take the medicine.


    "How a-are y-you feeling? Do y-you w-want us to a-accompany you towards the school c-clinic?" Callie asked, worriedly patting Ivan on the back.


    The young man shook his head, "I''m fine, thank you for helping me¡­" he stood up and carried his books from the desk. "I''m going to the library. Please go on and take your lunch," he walked past the two girls.


    However, when he reached the door, a loud thud rang beside his left ear. He looked back and got startled to see Athasia cornering his side.


    She gave Ivan a frown. "You are sick and you need to at least eat something. If you want to continue the class, then listen to me.."


    Athasia grabbed the young man on the wrist as she called Callie to follow them.


    Since lunchtime was already 30 minutes long, the cafeteria wasn''t that crowded when they arrived.


    Athasia ordered the same food for them. She didn''t let go of Ivan since he might escape and made up an excuse.


    The server and cashier prepared their food immediately, placing it on the counter.


    Ivan lightly tapped the Young Miss'' arm, that''s still holding his wrist. "Let me help,"


    Athasia squinted her eyes and looked at him suspiciously.


    "Don''t worry, I will eat with you.." Ivan immediately said with his low tone calm voice.


    The three of them sat at one table. Come to think of it, recalling Amber, Ivan, was also a son of the school''s top sponsors. Even if he''s not showy and quiet, some of the girls still want to grab his attention.


    Littleyoonie didn''t give Ivan a detailed description, and she''s not expecting that he will look this handsome.


    He''s like a rare sunflower in the field of dandelions.


    "Athasia, d-did you b-brought y-your P.E uniform?" Callie asked with her soft voice and red cheeks.


    Her friend munched the food inside her mouth and then nodded her head, "Yup why? You forgot yours?" she tilted her head. "I think I got an extra on my locker.." Athasia added.


    Hearing the answer she intended to know, Callie lowered her head. "I''m s-sorry for b-bothering you.." she mumbled, fidgeting with her fingers. "I didn''t m-mean to f-forgo¨C"


    Athasia ruffled Callie''s hair. "It''s not a big deal, don''t overreact.." she faced the girl and said. "We''re friends, right?"


    Callie irked from her seat with her eyes dilating in warmth. "Mmn! Thank you!"


    After eating lunch, they all headed to the locker room to prepare for the next class. Callie accompanied Ivan towards the infirmary since they already told their P.E instructor about his condition.


    Athasia was left in the locker room. She already changed and only took out her extra P.E uniform for Callie.


    When she''s near the door, from her distance, Amber and her side right friend were walking towards the locker room too. Amber was holding a phone and from the situation, they''re watching a video. Something amusing.


    Amber''s smiling face immediately changed as soon as she caught a glimpse of Athasia gazing at her between their distance.


    The Young Miss ignored them and walked past them, but she got grabbed. The P.E uniform slid from her hand.


    Amber tightened her grip around Athasia''s arm. She leaned closer and with her sharp glaring eyes; she said. "Don''t act too high in front of me just because you got a perfect score in class."


    The blonde girl glanced at her friend with a smirk and back at Athasia. "It doesn''t really matter, since I know that your father will never care.." she let go and giggled with her sidekick.


    But when Amber was about to walk inside, Athasia laughed.


    The Young Miss smirked. "Who cares about my father? I can burn my test papers in front of him." She said, not even turning her back. "If you want to get through me, you need to be more blunt. Is this all you have with that little brain of yours?"


    Emphasizing every word, the Young Miss turned around, gazing at Amber with her teasing eyes. "Use your small brain on important things¡­at least."


    "How dare you?!"


    Amber grabbed Athasia furiously towards the locker room. She pushed the Young Miss against the wall. "How d-dare y-you mock me?!" she''s already shaking from so much anger.


    Athasia bounced. She couldn''t deny that it hurt her a little.


    Amber clenched the girl''s cheeks. Pressing a little force on the part where she injured her. "Acting all high now, huh?" she mumbled. "Know your place, don''t you like the gift I gave you?"


    Athasia remained calm. She raised her hand and cupped Amber''s cheeks. She caressed her gently. "Amber, I will not stay in my place anymore. Can''t you see? I''m not the weak Athasia you used to bully.."


    She lowered her hand down. Grasping Amber''s neck gently. "If you can suffocate me, I can do the same too." Athasia smirked. "Isn''t it exciting?"


    Her amethyst eyes darkened more as she made a grin.


    Amber immediately retracted unconsciously. She felt something from seeing the Young Miss'' expression. Even her friend watching them shot a glance at her.


    All of them got surprised when one of their classmates entered the locker room. "Stop slacking off guys. The instructor ordered us to form a line. Hurry up.."


    Athasia was the first one who moved. She picked the P.E uniform from the floor and brushed herself.


    "You will pay for this!" Amber snarled for the last time.


    Athasia really didn''t want to pull on her more, but she''s already getting annoyed. One of the reasons why she didn''t like to socialize as littleyoonie was because she''s very straightforward. She was scared she might end up offending the other person by telling her opinion.


    The Young Miss flicked Amber on the forehead and smiled.. "I will not compensate you more since I can revoke your last card," then she walked away.

 Chapter 16 - This Is Bad For My Heart!

    Athasia tilted her head and looked outside. Even if she wanted to focus on the lesson, she couldn''t.


    Well, it''s because she ran 10 laps during her P.E class. As littleyoonie, she had a low stamina, that''s why she chooses to be an author because doing an outside job wasn''t her cup of tea.


    She sighed, looking down while twirling her favorite pen.


    Ivan also came back to their classroom. He just used all the P.E class time to rest at the infirmary and then he returned immediately. As expected from a diligent student.


    "I will divide the topics of today''s lesson. Group yourselves into three people." He put the book on the desk, "You will report it to me on Monday, so be prepared for the evaluation"


    As soon as Athasia heard the professor, she jolted. "What''s with the grouping?" she mumbled. She frowned because she already had plans on the weekends.


    Athasia is going to visit the establishments Benson recommended because she needed to apply for a part-time job. Of course, before her father took away everything, she needed to prepare for herself.


    "Athasia! Let''s b-be in o-one group!" Callie turned her chair as soon as the professor left the classroom. Her eyes were beaming like a puppy.


    "Sure, sure," The Young Miss replied.


    Their classmates also stood up from their seats and formed a group. Some were disappointed, and some were excited. Athasia belongs to the disappointed ones. She''s really frowning.


    Callie turned her head to her friend''s side. "How about you, Ivan?" She moved closer to the other girl''s desk. "Do y-you w-want to join us?"


    Ivan stopped writing. He raised his head and the afternoon sun hit his face. He blinked his eyes as he brushed his hair up to remove his glasses. It revealed his long lashes. "It''s my honor,"


    ''Such a quite handsome boy,'' Athasia thought.


    As soon as they formed their own group, Callie said that they can do it at her house. She''s excited, this is her first time bringing some friends to their house. For sure, her parents will be glad.


    The topic assigned to them wasn''t that hard. For Athasia, who topped all the exams, it''s an easy peasy activity. However, she wanted to put her plan on the top priority.


    Her part-time job hunting!


    "Hey guys, do you think we can finish the activity faster this weekend?"


    Both Callie and Ivan looked at her. Callie leaned on her desk. "Why? D-do you h-have other p-plans?" she asked, flipping Athasia''s book.


    "I have.." the Young Miss answered immediately. She got surprised when Callie pouted her lips while looking away. ''Eh? Did she just pout at me? She''s cute''


    The atmosphere immediately changed when the group of girls standing beside the door screamed with the hearts in their eyes. Some of them almost stretched their necks from the window just to witness the person walking in the hallways.


    Some of Athasia''s classmates dashed towards the door too.


    "Oh my, is that the school council president?!"


    "Yup, he''s very handsome!"


    "His plain expression was making him more attractive!"


    "Kyaa! Is he going here for his girlfriend?"


    "If it is, then that girl was very lucky"


    Athasia ''humph,'' she averted her gaze outside. Looking down at the wide school field. ''I included this scene in my novel because I thought it would help one of my male lead''s entrance look cool. This is so cliche..'' she mumbled inside her thoughts.


    Her female classmates'' yelling became louder. Even Callie almost flinched from her seat.


    Athasia leaned her elbow on the desk and was about to lean on her cheeks when she felt someone cupped her cheeks.


    As soon as she raised her eyes, she saw that gray hair fluttering along with the little rays of sunlight penetrating from the window. His green, calm eyes had a glint of worry.


    Vincent leaned closer, inspecting Athasia''s face. He caressed the Young Miss'' cheeks. "It''s still unhealed," he said.


    Athasia was completely struck that she turned speechless. Vincent was very close, and she felt like their nose was about to touch. The young man''s perfume mixed into the air between them and it made her more mesmerized.


    ''He smells so good,'' She thought.


    Athasia immediately flinched when she felt the texture of the band aid on her face. She touched her face as soon as she snapped back. "E-Eh? W-What is this?"


    "I told you to put on a bandaid for a while. If you expose it like that, it might get infected.." Vincent replied, staring straight at her.


    The Young Miss blushed, beet red ears. "D-Don''t t-tell me, you went h-here just to c-check on me?" she stammered, lowering her head.


    The handsome man''s thin lips smiled, and it revealed his shallow dimples. Littleyoonie was the one who made his dimples in that way because she wanted to prove that it''s not only the deep dimples that are sexy, but also the shallow ones.


    "Am I not allowed to care about you, my princess?" Vincent asked.


    Before Athasia finally lost it with her heart pounding so loud inside her chest, two students entered their room.


    "President, we''re done patrolling." One of them said, "We thought that you already went back to the council office since you suddenly disappeared from our sight,"


    Vincent rubbed the back of his neck, releasing a light chuckle. "Is that so?" He stepped forward and smiled, giving Athasia a head pat before passing by her.


    Their classmates circled around Vincent on his way to the door. Even the boys adored how calm he is. A model perfect for the student council president position.


    The Young Miss was left in her seat, flustered. She shrunk her face into the desk, clenching her chest. ''I think I''m going to die,'' she mumbled.


    She saw a waving hand in front of her face. "Athasia? What''s w-wrong? A-Are you a-alright?" Callie asked.


    The Young Miss sprang. "Y-Yes?!" she exclaimed. "W-What is it?"


    Callie frowned. "Your face is red." She even leaned closer and tapped Athasia''s forehead. "Are y-you o-okay? You d-didn''t catch I-Ivan''s fever, r-right?" she asked worriedly.


    "No, no! I''m fine! I''m fine!" she exclaimed as she whispered to herself. ''This is really bad for my heart''

 Chapter 17 - Olivia Blushed In Front Of The Young Miss

    Athasia smiled while brushing her hair in front of the mirror. It was the mirror she first saw when she got transmigrated inside her novel.


    She suddenly remembered that embarrassing moment he did in front of Benson. She pouted. "Why the hell am I remembering it? I mean, who will not react like that?! Humph!" Talking to herself, she stood up and smiled.


    ''Such a pretty lady,'' she thought.


    Athasia wore this sky blue top and black pants with white sneakers. She opened her closet and pulled a bag enough to support the things she''s bringing. Of course, her resume and other details for applying into a part-time job were there too.


    Benson knocked on the door, "Young Miss, are you finished?" he bowed his head as soon as Athasia walked out of his room. "Do I look good, Benson?" the young lady asked.


    Benson stopped and scanned Athasia. He raised a thumbs up awkwardly. "You are beautiful as always, Young Miss," then he bowed.


    Athasia clenched her fist secretly. ''Of course, If I want to get a job I need to be presentable'' she thought, grinning widely.


    She already decided on this, and she''ll never back out. Littleyoonie will prove that Athasia can handle herself alone. First, she needed to be rich enough to conquer her father''s estate.


    ''Since I am inside the novel, it''s better to not get attached to every character,'' she thought.


    After all, this is not the reality.


    Her driver opened the car door as they reached the parking lot. Benson handed her bag, "Young Miss, are you sure you don''t need me?" he asked.


    Athasia smiled, "Benson, I''m not a kid anymore. How many times do I have to tell you that?" she sulked, pouting her lips as she stepped in.


    The driver bowed his head to Benson before driving off. Before that, Athasia rolled down the car window. "Benson, don''t stand outside all day waiting and worrying for me. If you have nothing to do while I''m not around, then take a rest, okay?"


    Her butler bowed his head. "I will consider that. Have a safe trip, Young Miss.."


    Benson watched the car vanish from his sight before going back. He couldn''t help but smile. "The Young Miss grew up kind," he whispered.


    Meanwhile, in the car, Athasia turned on her phone and read Callie''s messages. The girl said that they were going to meet up at the bookstore to buy a copy of the book they''re going to use.


    "Mr. Driver, do you know this bookstore?"


    Her driver nodded his head as soon as he recognized the location. "Yes, Young Miss. It''s not that far."


    The car sped up, making Athasia arrive at her destination earlier.


    AT THE BOOKSTORE¡­


    The Young Miss texted Callie and Ivan that she''s already there. She walked in to roam around.


    Of course, every author loves books. It was like a paradise for littleyoonie. If only she''s not in the rebellious phase, she''ll ask her father to buy this bookstore for her.


    Athasia put her hand under her chin. ''Hmm, Should I make my own library at home?'' she giggled just by imagining that.


    She giddy up to the novel sections, finding her favorite book. The one they''re going to use as a reference was also a novel, so it''s not that hard to look for it.


    Although she''s still shy to mix with other people as an introvert, the neatly arranged sight of the books relaxed her. She even leaned on the shelves just to smell it.


    However, Athasia''s joyful moment immediately disappeared when the slide of her eyes caught someone very familiar to her.


    From the other side of the shelf, that girl was trying to reach a book higher than her height. Maybe 5 inches from her height. The book is thick and had a hardcover. It will fall onto her head for sure.


    The Young Miss grinned, because it was Olivia. Who would have thought that she''ll see the school princess here?


    It''s so good to watch Olivia trying hard to reach that book. Just like Athasia, maybe she also came here to have a group report. Well, the Young Miss felt lucky because the book she was looking for wasn''t that thick and heavy.


    Still, Athasia finds it amusing to tease the school princess a little, so she stepped out of her hiding spot. The truth is, she wanted to take a video of Olivia tiptoeing for that book, though she realized that she will gain nothing from that.


    Besides, spreading video isn''t her nature.


    Olivia stretched her arm once more to reach for the book she needed for their research. She really couldn''t get it. She''s too embarrassed to ask for help from the crews. She wanted them to approach her first.


    Her face was almost frowning, and she''s getting irritated. She used this opportunity to spend time with Max. Olivia did her best to get Max''s permission to be in her group.


    That''s why she wanted to show off. What a prideful witch!


    Olivia became grumpy. She stretched her arm again, but before she could do that, another figure shadowed behind her. She saw a familiar hand beside her head.


    Athasia leaned closer and reached for the book. She sighed, "For Pete''s sake, you just need to ask for he¡ª"


    As soon as their eyes met, the Young Miss paused.


    Olivia''s face was beet red up to her ears, and because their arms were almost touching, she could sense that the school princess was panicking inside.


    Athasia smirked, "Hi Olivia! I couldn''t stand seeing you struggling so I helped you.." she lowered her head and pushed the book onto Olivia''s chest. "Here you go..no need to thank me,"


    The school princess jolted as soon as she felt Athasia''s breath. Her grips became tighter. With her flushed face, her lips trembled.


    Too late to realize that it was Athasia who helped her.


    Olivia backed away, "Eh?..Eh?...EHHHHH?!!!" she screamed.


    Everyone got surprised, so the Young Miss immediately covered the girl''s mouth. "Hey, why are you yelling? I helped you.." she whispered.


    In the middle of the people, a silhouette of a tall young man wearing black stood out as he dashed towards Olivia.


    "What happened?!" Max exclaimed.


    And there he caught Athasia doing something to Olivia?

 Chapter 18 - Are You Into Girls?

    "Ehh?! Ehhhhh?!!!!!"


    As soon as Olivia''s cheeks turned red, her voice startled the crowd. However, before a commotion rose, Athasia immediately covered her lips.


    "Hey! Why did you scream? I helped you.." Athasia exclaimed with panic.


    In the middle of the crowd, a silhouette of a young, tall man stood amongst the crowd. With his black coat fluttering with his movements, he pushed himself forward.


    As soon as he got a glimpse of the situation, which is Athasia pinning Olivia on the shelf, his expression changed.


    He crossed his arms. "What is happening here?" he asked in a plain voice.


    Max came here because Olivia asked him to be her group mate. He didn''t want to talk more, so he just nodded his head. And today was the day when they''re going to buy that book for the presentation.


    Since Olivia was noisy and clingy, he decided to make up an excuse by going to the bathroom. Not until he heard that familiar, embarrassing voice.


    He didn''t want to admit it, but thanks to Athasia, the girl got shut.


    Athasia met his eyes, and it made her realize what position she was doing to Olivia. She immediately parted and lightly shoved the book to the other girl. ''Geez! Your prince charming is so slow. I almost claimed the spotlight''


    She needed to check if Callie and Ivan were already here. They''re group mates after all. But when she was about to turn her heels, she felt something on her wrist.


    Athasia only realized that Max dragged her somewhere with fewer people.


    ''Wait! Wait! Wait! Why am I being dragged instead of Olivia?!'' she thought.


    In her novel, Max never did this to her. He didn''t even lay his eyes on the Young Miss. He only had his eyes on Olivia after rejecting Athasia.


    Her back bounced on the shelf and before she could react, Max put one hand beside her head. Their gazes locked and the sudden change in the atmosphere brought shivers to Athasia.


    She never saw Max this serious. Even though litttleyoonie made his eyes ocean blue, his aura was still potent.


    ''Get a hold of yourself, Athasia! He left Olivia and dragged you instead! Wait! Did he accidentally grab the wrong hand? No! No! Impossible, he''ll already let me go after seeing my face. Wait, a minute! Why is he leaning too close!!!!!???''


    These thoughts kept running inside her mind, and it''s making her almost dizzy.


    "ARE YOU INTO GIRLS?"


    Athasia''s head immediately spun to Max, who''s looking at her with such a serious expression.


    She scoffed. "...pfftt.." She curled and tried to stop her laughter by holding her stomach. She couldn''t even imagine Max''s face anymore.


    The young man parted from her and fixed his coat. Still gazing at the Young Miss with cold eyes. He must be wondering why he got laughed out.


    And when he was about to open his mouth, Athasia raised her head and pulled him by the collar. Her amethyst eyes dilated in a mischievous way while looking at Max.


    She tiptoed closer to the young man''s ear and whispered. "Why? Does it bother you?"


    Max''s body reacted to that ticklish breath. He immediately pulled himself and scowled. "What are you doing?"


    Seeing how irritated the young man is, Athasia smirked. ''Teasing this jerk is quite fun,'' she thought.


    Then, just at the right time, her phone rang. It was a call from Callie, saying that she''s already here with Ivan.


    After the call, Athasia turned around and waved her hands, giving her last words. "As long as you''re not in the option, it doesn''t matter"


    And from watching her back walking away, an ominous aura surrounded Max. "ATHASIA.." He grumbled.


    ***


    Callie immediately waved her hands as soon as she saw Athasia''s silhouette. She was standing near the counter with Ivan.


    As soon as the Young Miss approached them, she immediately greeted them. "Hi guys!"


    Callie blinked her eyes, "Athasia, w-why did you c-came out f-from the back?" she asked, still couldn''t get rid of her stutter.


    A cunning smile flashed on Athasia''s face. "I stumbled upon someone very interested there," she said, wrapping her hands around the girl.


    ''I-Interesting? Is it m-more interesting than me? I w-will work hard'' Callie unconsciously clenched her fist up in the air. ''I a-also w-want to be i-interesting in my f-friend''s eye!''


    The cashier put the book in a paper bag and handed it to Ivan. "Thank you for your patronage," she smiled.


    The three of them exited the bookstore. The sun was still up in the sky. More time for Athasia.


    "Where are we going to do it?"


    Ivan gazed at the Young Miss with his plain expression. "At Callie''s place," he replied.


    "Callie, is your place that far from here? How many minutes?"


    Although surprised by the sudden questions, Callie still answered. "It''s not that far from here. Actually, we can just walk." Then she smiled secretly. ''Of c-course, I w-will not d-disappoint my f-friends''


    "I have a car.."


    Both Athasia and Callie spun their heads to Ivan with their wide eyes. Then the young man beside them took out his car key.


    ''He''s reliable,'' Athasia thought. ''I didn''t put so many details about him in my novel because he''s just a side character, so why is he showing so much?''


    From what she has remembered, she just wrote there that Ivan was also a rich second generation son. His family also has a huge contribution to their school.


    "Hey! Athasia!"


    As soon as she heard her name from behind, the Young Miss turned around. And to her amusement, she found Olivia catching her breath.


    The school princess looked devastated as she pointed her finger at Athasia. "Where''s Max? He took you with him earlier!" she threw her tantrums. "I couldn''t find him¨C" her eyes immediately widened as soon as she saw Ivan.


    "Ivan!? What are you doing with them?!" Olivia exclaimed.


    And just like that, Athasia remembered another thing about Ivan. He and Olivia were cousins.


    The dumbfounded Callie leaned and poked Ivan''s shoulder. "Do y-you know h-her? She''s c-calling you.."


    The expression on the young man''s face turned more plain. "No, I don''t know her.." Ivan immediately replied. "Let''s go,"


    Athasia and Callie looked at each other with the same thought.


    ''What a cruel man''

 Chapter 19 - Warm Family

    "Mom! Dad! I''m home!"


    Callie cheerfully opened the door very wide. She removed her shoes and smiled brightly. "Come in, my m-mom and d-dad were a-also here.."


    Ivan and Athasia nodded as they both removed their shoes and followed the girl. A woman in her 30s, with a ponytail, wearing an apron, greeted them. She gave a kiss and a hug to Callie.


    "Hello kids! You must be Callie''s friends. Come in, please don''t be shy.."


    Athasia observed the interior design of their house. It was wide and peach. There were pictures hanging on the walls, some were painted. The atmosphere towards the living room was lively.


    There was a flatscreen T.V and two long sofas. A glass table with a flower vase. The mat was soft and soothing to her feet. Just like what she wrote in her novel.


    The woman stood beside her daughter, who had already introduced her friends. "Nice to meet you. I am Callie''s mom. You can call me Aunt Ellie." She had a personality just like Callie.


    "Oh? They''re here already?" A deep and pleasant voice coming from the kitchen resounded as soon as a tall man in his 40s showed up. He must be the father of this family.


    Aunt Ellie introduced him, "This is my husband. You can also call this old man your Uncle Charlie," she said, tapping her husband''s chest.


    Uncle Charlie smiled, "Yow, zup kids?" Then he showed a warm smile before looking back at his wife. "Honey, don''t call me old man in front of them," he whispered.


    Aunt Ellie frowned. "Don''t throw your tantrums on me. They''re our daughter''s friends." She whispered back, secretly pinching her husband''s back.


    Callie stood between them with her blushed cheeks. She must be shy from her parents'' behavior. "M-Mom, Dad," she uttered.


    Her parents understood it. "We will prepare lunch for the both of you. Join us, okay?" Aunt Ellie said, dragging her husband back to the kitchen.


    "You have a nice family," Ivan commented, taking his notes from his bag.


    Callie felt more shy, "S-S-Sorry f-for that.." her stutter got worse. "I r-really w-want to b-bring a f-friend at m-my house," she whispered, fidgeting with her fingers.


    "Don''t be shy, you deserve them," Athasia said. She turned the page of the book she''s also checking. As littleyoonie, she secretly smiled. ''I''m glad I gave her a lively family''


    Callie left them in the living room because she said that she''ll going to help her parents prepare lunch for them.


    Being alone with Ivan made Athasia think about more things. Even though she wrote Callie there as a side character, she never thought that she''ll get close to her.


    This is because in her novel, the original groupings were Athasia, Amber and Max. Her female lead never got this close with Callie and Ivan.


    Well, at least it made her happy. Athasia was slowly spreading her wings with the right people. It was another development she achieved.


    After a couple of minutes, the foods were already served on the table with everyone sitting with each other.


    "Now, eat to your heart''s content.." Uncle Charlie exclaimed, taking the lead on the table. "We cooked this with our love, so enjoy it kids," then he laughed with pride.


    Aunt Ellie, who''s next to him, clicked her tongue. "You''re always noisy in front of the table. You''re scaring our daughter''s friends," she snorted.


    Hearing this, Uncle Charlie turned gloomy. "Eh? Am I?" He faced Athasia and Ivan, "Please don''t be scared, kids. This is the first time Callie brought her friends. I got too excited," he chuckled awkwardly.


    Ivan looked at him after munching his food, "It''s okay sir, the food was delicious," he commented, giving his thumbs up.


    Of course, getting a compliment made Uncle Charles beamed. He tapped his wife and bragged.


    The table was noisy, yet warm.


    Athasia always wanted to experience this in the novel. Well, thanks to littleyoonie, she didn''t even get her wish. ''I somehow feel guilty''


    As her parents continued, Callie tapped the table with her fingers, "S-Sorry for t-that guys. They''re a-always like this. That''s w-why my b-brother didn''t w-want to e-eat with t-them.." she said.


    However, after hearing her brother, her parents stopped and straightened their backs. They started to act like real parents.


    "Callie, you don''t need to hurt us like that. Your brother was always busy. He never told us that he didn''t want to join us," Aunt Ellie said.


    Callie counterattack, "But it''s true, mom"


    Uncle Charlie immediately brushed his wife''s back before she became emotional. "My, my..I will give your brother a real bearing this time. Puberty really hit him hard, eh? We don''t always have guests and this is your first time bringing your friends. I just want to lighten up the mood," he said.


    Ivan munched another piece of meat. "The mood was good, sir," he commented.


    Uncle Charlie sparkled again, "Right Ivan? Conversations like this are normal for families eating together," he proudly said. "How about you, Athasia? Do you think it''s embarrassing to eat with your noisy family?" He was very proud, expecting that the girl would also take his side.


    "I don''t know. I never experienced this kind of thing, sir," Athasia answered.


    That''s when the atmosphere turned silent.


    It''s true though. Athasia''s father wasn''t like Uncle Charlie, who''s cheerful and loving to his family. It''s not like she''s comparing them. She just didn''t know what words to use when describing Alexis Rymerton.


    As a daughter and father relationship, they''re always distant from each other. She also rarely sees her father at home.


    Athasia put her spoon down and looked at them. "I''m sorry" she bowed her head. "I didn''t mean to spoil the mood"


    To her surprise, Ivan raised his hands and patted her back. "It''s okay, your answer is valid.." he faced Uncle Charlie again. "I want another serving, sir. Your cooking is very delicious,"


    The man immediately took Ivan''s plate, "Y-Yeah.." He gazed at Athasia awkwardly, "H-How about you?" he asked, feeling guilty.


    Ivan was right. It doesn''t matter if you''re eating with your family or not. What matters the most is she''s eating with the people who opened and welcomed her with their heart.


    Athasia smiled, "Yes sir! I suddenly felt more hungry..Aha...Ahaha"

 Chapter 20 - Aunt Ellies Thoughts

    After lunch time, Athasia, Callie and Ivan started to make their presentations. Callie''s parents were very welcoming. It was a great experience for Athasia.


    She couldn''t even remember if she really did this back in her time as littleyoonie. Come to think of it, she had no friends to begin with. She often spent her time alone back in highschool before becoming an author.


    She didn''t want to deny that Athasia was related to her a bit.


    "S-Sorry for m-making you feel u-uncomfortable earlier," Callie sat beside her with her guilty brown eyes. "My f-father d-didn''t mean to say s-something like t-that.."


    Athasia smiled and patted the girl''s shoulders. "It''s okay, no need to feel sorry.." she went back to her book. "I understand. Your father cherished this family so much.." she mumbled.


    Hearing this, Callie couldn''t stop herself from adoring Athasia more that she was left in a daze until Ivan poked her cheeks. "Help me with this, so that we can finish early," he said.


    Come to think of it, Callie recalled that Athasia said that she had plans for the weekend after doing their activity. She compressed herself beside the Young Miss, "Athasia, you s-said you have o-other plan a-after this, right?" she asked.


    Athasia paused from reading and glanced at Callie. "Mhm? Why?" she flipped the page again of the book she was reading.


    "Can I c-come w-with you?!" Callie immediately exclaimed.


    "NO,"


    Callie shut, dumbfounded. Athasia rejected her so quickly.


    Just like a lost cat, her imaginary ears flopped down with her tail. She picked up the book that Ivan gave her earlier. ''Ivan was right, I should just help them and shut my mouth'' she thought.


    The young man next to them got chills, and he also shot a quick glance at them.


    He also heard Athasia say that. That''s why he''s also trying his best to figure out this presentation.


    Ivan was a quiet guy. He will talk when someone asks him or if he wants to know something from someone, but not into the length of asking their personal life and problems. He is the only boy in their family.


    Her mother pampered him so much, just like his older sisters. She even chased her to the gate, asking him to bring his car.


    "Athasia, where are you going after this?" Ivan asked. He wanted to drop the Young Miss, at least.


    Both Athasia and Callie turned their heads on him. They really couldn''t know what he was thinking.


    A smirk occupied Athasia''s cheeks. "Do you want to drop me off? What a gentleman," she complimented.


    Ivan leaned his back on the sofa, still eyes on the book. "Don''t you want to? I will not insist.." he replied. Even though he sounded like he''s asking Athasia for a date, his face didn''t change at all.


    ''Did I make him so emotionless that everything he was saying wasn''t accurate in his face?'' Littleyoonie thought.


    Athasia shrugged her shoulders and stood up. "I''m going to the bathroom," Callie immediately instructed her where the bathroom was.


    The thoughts about Ivan didn''t leave her mind until she reached the bathroom. She faced the mirror and washed her face. It''s like she''s iterating with a new person since Ivan is just a side character who appeared in the novel once.


    "Whatever,"


    Athasia turned her heels, exiting the bathroom and in the small hallways she saw Aunt Ellie carrying a basket of laundry.


    The basket was full of dry clothes from the washing machine. The woman was about to fall because of the height covering her line of sight.


    "Let me help you, Auntie," Athasia immediately grabbed the other side of the laundry basket and smiled after meeting Aunt Ellie''s gentle gaze.


    The woman blinked, "T-Thank you, but Am I not bothering you, dear?" she asked.


    "It''s okay, Ma''am!" The Young Miss stepped inches away from her. "We''re already finished. Where should I put these?" she asked.


    "Yes, yes, come and follow me," Aunt Ellie immediately took the lead, going to another room. She opened the door for the young lady and dashed to the edge of the bed. "Here, please put it here."


    Athasia did what was told to her. As soon as she straightened her back, the side of her eyes caught something. There was a picture frame on the table. It was Callie when she was in her kindergarten and she was crying there.


    "Such a crybaby," Athasia mumbled.


    Aunt Ellie noticed her gaze, so she stood beside the Young Miss and chuckled. "She''s always crying in her kindergarten days," she stated. "Yet she''s always lying when I''m asking her what''s wrong"


    Hearing this, Athasia languidly smiled. Ever since Callie was a little, she''s already selfless. She included it in her novel. Callie never spoke about the people who bullied her.


    "Your daughter was a strong lady, Ma''am.." she said.


    Aunt Ellie didn''t get what Athasia was saying since she said it like she''s older than her daughter.


    The woman patted the Young Miss'' head. "Do you think you two were the same?" her smile became warm, which made Athasia flutter.


    "Callie grew up perfectly that she didn''t want to worry us, but it''s also okay to lean on someone." The warmth from her hand traveled down to the girl''s heart. "I''m always telling that to her and looked at her now. She already have you and that boy."


    The woman turned her gaze to the picture with a smile on her face. "She already have her group of friends now,"


    Athasia''s lips parted, but she didn''t know what to say, so she closed it again. ''You are wrong, Ma''am..It''s me who''s now leaning on your daughter,'' she thought.


    It''s her who had no friends. An outcast. On the other hand, she''s proud of Athasia for meeting genuine friends. Even though she never experienced it at all, at least everything in this novel seems realistic.


    A languid smile stretched across her cheeks as she faced Aunt Ellie. "Thank you for staying beside Callie, Ma''am!" she exclaimed. "You really have an adorable daughter,"


    Then they both laughed.

 Chapter 21 - Plan...Failed?

    "Thank you for having us!"


    Athasia and Ivan bowed their heads before finally saying goodbye to Callie''s family. They finished the presentation quickly and are now on their way home.


    Aunt Ellie smiled at them, "Please take care on your way back and don''t be shy to visit again,"


    "You are welcome here any time," Uncle Charles said, waving his hands at them too.


    Callie stepped forward and grabbed Athasia''s hand. "Please c-come a-again. S-See you at s-school!" she exclaimed despite her stuttering.


    The Young Miss hugged her and kissed her cheek. "Yeah, sure.." then she waved her hands. "Bye bye.."


    Ivan walked next to Athasia as they were both trailing the side of the streets. The afternoon sky was giving a dandelion shade to the horizon. The sun was about to set.


    He parked his car not far away from Callie''s house, so they immediately saw it. He really didn''t want to bring one, but his mom kept on nagging him.


    "Where are you going after this?" Ivan asked, clicking his key.


    Athasia halted. "I have plans. Why are you asking me?" She leaned forward and felt the afternoon breeze touching her face. ''It''s cold,'' she thought.


    The only thing she had inside her mind was hoping that Ivan would go right away. She already texted that one coffee shop that she will attend the interview today.


    "Do you want me to drive you?" Ivan offered again, standing close to his blue car, dazzling at the side of the road.


    Come to think of it, Athasia didn''t know how to get there. She told her driver that she will be taking the bus. Well, isn''t it more convenient to explore and discover things? She took her phone out and checked the location of the coffee shop and from the looks of it, it''s not very far from here.


    She showed her phone to Ivan. "Can you take me here?" she asked.


    Ivan read the location of the coffee shop and nodded his head, "It''s okay," he opened the door, "Please step in.."


    The Young Miss stepped in and waited for Ivan to step into the driver''s seat too. The air-con turned on and so did the engine. The young man fixed the rearview mirror and mumbled something, "Please put on your seatbelt, I don''t want to put anyone in danger because of me,"


    Athasia did what was told to her, however, it made her chuckle. "Why are you so tense? Is this the first time you take someone inside your car?" she teased, looking straight to the road.


    And to her surprise, Ivan nodded his head. "Yes." he turned the handlebar and focused on driving.


    The Young Miss poked his shoulders. "I wasn''t expecting your answer. I thought you already took someone like Olivia in your car," she said, holding her laughter.


    And from the side of her eyes, she saw Ivan frowned that his eyes almost squinted. He stopped when the traffic lights turned red. Well, she''s expecting it since the two of them were cousins, but after seeing the young man''s expression, she doubted what she said.


    "Why would I take her in? She''s very noisy. All she wanted to do was to throw tantrums," Ivan mumbled.


    Athasia gasped. She pushed herself up and cupped Ivan''s cheeks, making his eyes look at him. "Hey, are you really Ivan? What''s wrong with you today? Does Uncle Charles'' cooking affect you that much?"


    It''s because Ivan was the quiet type of a person who didn''t want to stand out despite his personality. Littleyoonie wrote his description like that in her novel. It was a little surprising that Ivan was babbling at least 5 words.


    She let go and went back to her posture. "I didn''t know that you two were not that close," she scoffed again. "You''re right though. Olivia loves to throw tantrums every time"


    Ivan shot a quick glance at her, and her smiling face caught his eyes. Athasia''s thin lips curved up to her pink cheeks, and it made the tip of her nose red. As the setting sky shadowed her, her view was like a goddess enjoying her entertainment.


    He ignored it and drove as soon as the traffic lights turned green.


    They reached the coffee shop just right in time. Athasia said thanks to Ivan and waved her hands. Of course, she let Ivan''s car disappear first from her sight before entering the shop.


    As soon as she was alone, she immediately turned on her heels. She can feel that today was her lucky day. Even though she arrived a bit late, the manager considered it.


    The coffee shop was quite busy since it was afternoon. The surroundings were noisy too, and there were lots of customers lining up at the counter.


    She didn''t want to disturb anyone, so Athasia took a seat and suited herself. She planned on waiting until the coffee shop closed. She really didn''t want this job to catch some attention, so she made the very small moves as much as possible.


    This is a good location during weekends because it was far from the University. She took out her phone and texted the one who contacted her that it''s okay for her to wait until the closing time.


    She placed her phone back on the table and leaned her elbow on the desk to cup her cheeks. Athasia stared outside, observing the road with the cars passing by. Somehow, she was deafened by the noisy surroundings inside the shop as she focused her mind to the edge of the sun touching the horizon.


    She didn''t even realize that someone took the seat across from her. She was sitting on a double chair table anyway, so it can''t be helped.


    But it surprised her to see a very familiar face.


    Their eyes met and Athasia slammed her hands on the desk as she exclaimed. "What the heck are you doing here?!"


    Who wouldn''t freak out?


    It was Maximilian Svestin who met her eyes.


    "Hey! I should be the one asking you that!"

 Chapter 22 - To Be Her...SLAVE?!

    "What the heck are you doing here?!"


    Her eyes widened as soon as she recognized the face she didn''t want to see.


    Their eyes met, and it also surprised the young, handsome man. "Hey! I should be the one asking you that!" he exclaimed.


    Since the coffee shop was packed with customers, the noisy atmosphere covered their voices. Max leaned his back and crossed his arms. Only gazing at the young miss across from him.


    However, Athasia wasn''t amused. Her amethyst eyes darkened as he glared back at Max. "What the fuck are you doing here?" she mumbled.


    Max twitched his eyes and then grasped his arm. "Did you just curse me?" He leaned closer and put his closed fist on the table.


    Athasia snorted a chuckle and rolled her eyes. "So what?" he replied.


    She''s very annoyed. She did all her best to come here secretly and this young man over here just ruined her plan. Well, she didn''t want to work in a coffee shop in the first place. This is only one of her options.


    However, just by being seen by Maximillian Svestin, the male lead, wasn''t even in her plan at all. Who knows if he ran his mouth at school to badmouth Athasia?


    The strings snapped between them, and a crackle of lightning started to spark.


    Max clicked his tongue and averted his gaze. "Tch! I lost my appetite." he grumbled.


    "Hah?!" Athasia groaned. Her blood boiled up to her head, and she kicked Max''s legs under the table. "Who cares if you lost your appetite, you spoiled brat?!" she sneered.


    The young man curled and sprang. He''s not patient. He''s used to seeing people trembling in front of his eyes, so just by seeing Athasia back firing him made him annoyed.


    And just like that, he took the Young Miss'' hand and they both of them exited the coffee shop.


    "Hey!" Athasia yelled as soon as she grabbed her hands back. She massaged her wrist, admitting that Max''s grip was a bit tight. "What the heck are you doing?!"


    This is not good after all. Meeting the male lead in the middle of her plan was enough to ruin her day. Max''s family was close to Alexis Rymerton. They''re childhood friends, right? She''s the only one who can stand Max''s temper.


    ''I''m the only one who can stand your temper, right?'' She thought, playfully grinning.


    Athasia stepped forward, closing the distance between their faces. "Heh?~...why are you so pumped up meeting me accidentally, Max?"


    Hearing his name, Max felt something like the back of his nape turned stiff.


    An idea immediately came into her mind. She raised her hand and tilted Max''s chin. "What is this? Are you hiding something?" she asked, grinned.


    The young man didn''t move, he took Athasia''s hand and smirked. "Why? Are you interested in joining me?" He leaned closer, too. "I came here because my father wanted to buy this coffee shop. Shouldn''t I be the one asking you why you''re here"


    Athasia backed away. She rolled her eyes, "Whatever!"


    She turned on her heels and was about to walk away when Max grabbed her back. "Where are you going?" he asked.


    Athasia turned her head, but as soon as she turned her heels, 2 black cars stopped in front of them.


    Almost five men in black suits stepped out from the other car. They surrounded them and all bowed their heads.


    "Young Master, where have you been? The master is so worried," one of them said. "Please don''t wander around alone and escape," he added.


    Both Athasia and Max looked at each other. Then the guy was the first one who averted his gaze.


    ''Aha? What is this? Did this Young Master here escape from his castle?'' The Young Miss couldn''t help but secretly grinned. She shot a quick glance at Max before turning to one of the men in suits. "Eh? But I thought he came here because his father wanted to buy this coffee shop?" she snickered.


    To her surprise, the men in suits also bowed their heads to her. "It''s nice seeing you here, Young Miss Rymerton!" They greeted in unison.


    "Eh?" Athasia was dumbfounded. Though she immediately greeted them back, because she''s littleyoonie and she knew why they''re acting like this.


    Athasia was Maximilian''s childhood friend, and she spent more of her time at the guy''s place when both of them were close back then. These men recognized her immediately.


    They once again faced Maximilian. "Young Master, your father ordered us to take you back." the one who seemed to be the most familiar with Max, said.


    However, the male lead''s face surprisingly became devastated. Max frowned and clenched his fist. For sure, his father will scold him again for running away before meeting their guests at home.


    And unconsciously, his hand moved on its own, grabbing Athasia forward, who stumbled onto his chest.


    The Young Miss looked up with astonishment. "E-Eh? W-What are y-you doing?!" she exclaimed.


    Max grasped her, but this time, a bit careful. He faced his father''s underlings and proclaimed. "She''s the reason why I''m here¡­" His face was stern, without even blinking.


    The men around them got startled that they also looked at each other alternately.


    "What are you looking at?! Hurry and open the door," Max ordered.


    They opened the door of the other car. "Please step in, Y-Young Master and Y-Young Miss.."


    Max pulled Athasia into the car. He cornered the young lady and said. "Don''t run away because I will not let go either," his deep blue eyes became sharper. "Get inside.." he ordered.


    Athasia''s body also moved on its own, stepping inside the car. She leaned on the window and smirked after Max stepped in. He told the driver to go home straight, and the ride went on.


    The Young Miss couldn''t help but smirked secretly. Because she knew for sure. Max will need her help and it will give her an advantage.


    ''Should I make him my slave after this?'' she thought. ''How amusing''

 Chapter 23 - Are You Proposing?!

    As soon as the engine started, Max leaned on his back and looked outside the window. He cleared his mind while watching the busy people beside the streets.


    Athasia didn''t budge. She observed the male lead''s face reflecting on the car window. It seems like the young man wasn''t pleased at all.


    Max''s car had a thin glass wall separating them from the driver for private conversation purposes. And based on Athasia''s smirking lips, it was the right time to use that privacy.


    She crossed her arms. "So, what do you want from me?" she asked.


    The young, handsome man didn''t answer immediately. As if he was also asking himself why he dragged Athasia with him. It was too sudden that his mind didn''t find the words to say after pushing the young lady inside the car.


    However, since the two of them knew each other, as well as each one''s family, Max found it easy to say.


    "I hate engagements," only three words, but seems heavy for his breaths.


    Athasia shrugged. "Who would love that? Of course, it''s a pain in the ass." she said it consciously and unconsciously that even herself got surprised.


    She cleared her throat, "I-I mean..If you don''t like the other party, that''s quite reasonable,"


    Hearing herself, she was taken aback. ''Wait? What did I just say? Engagements? With whom?'' Athasia cupped her chin and pondered.


    In her novel, Athasia was the one who got an arranged engagement to the male lead. Of course, it''s a given that Max will reason out since he rejected Athasia. But if Max tried to escape now, then who''s the ones in their house?


    ''It''s not my father, right?''


    The car stopped, and the doors opened.


    "We have arrived, young miss and young master," the one who seemed familiar with Max said.


    Athasia hopped out of the car, and so did Max. Judging from the exterior design, the place was wide. More like a mansion type. The pathway was made of different stones. Thick shaped bushes side by side and a fountain on the left corner.


    They headed to the main entrance, and all of the servants bowed their heads. The maids were surprised and their eyes lit up as soon as they recognized the pretty young lady walking beside Max.


    A butler came rushing to them. "Young Master!" His breath was quite heavy and his expression was gloomy. "I''m glad you''re here.." when his eyes caught a glimpse of Athasia, he bowed. "Young Miss Rymerton? It''s been a while. Nice to see you again," he gave a sweet smile.


    "Alfred, right?" She recognized the character of this butler immediately. Just like her, Max also had a personal butler.


    Alfred nodded, "Sorry for the rush. I didn''t know that the young master had a visitor today. I will inform Master Svestin. Please excuse me."


    When the butler disappeared from their sight, Max and Athasia went to the living room. The maid served some snacks and juice.


    Max didn''t touch the food. He remained in his seat, composed. While Athasia took a biscuit and ate it carelessly. Who cares if the male lead was stressed? It''s not like she will feel pity towards him.


    A figure appeared in front of them after a couple of minutes. Tall man in black hair with the shade of gray strands, showing that he''s already in his early 40s. He had slanted blue eyes and wrinkles on his forehead.


    Athasia gulped and stood. "Uncle Maxwell!!" her eyes brightened while waving her hands.


    Maxwell Svestin, the male lead''s father who was indulged in business. He often spent most of his time traveling abroad. That''s why Maximilian was stuck to homeschooling and learned the business world despite his age.


    Maxwell smiled, showing how grateful he was upon seeing the young lady. "Athasia, how are you, my dear?" He approached her and ruffled her hair. "How''s your school? Doing good?"


    The young miss nodded her head. "Actually, I was out with my friends because of a school presentation," she stated, taking her seat as the man also sat across from them.


    Maxwell was a strict father to his only son. It''s not surprising if he urged Max to prepare for his future, now that they''re already in legal age. His gaze went to his son. "Max, where have you been?"


    His stern words made Max more uneasy. "I went outside with her.." he replied, not even looking at Athasia''s eyes.


    ''So this is what you want to play huh,'' a smirk secretly curved on the young miss'' lips. She didn''t budge or show that she was surprised. Athasia was already expecting this, and she will for sure charge Max about this.


    "Yes, Uncle Maxwell. We went outside to discuss our presentation and grabbed some coffee on the way," she explained very well.


    ''But Olivia was with him a while ago, right? Why did they separate ways?''


    Well, since it''s not her concern, she brushed Max''s words with lies too. The older man didn''t suspect it, but the disappointment was still fresh on his face.


    Maxwell faced his son and talked in his serious tone, "Maximilian, why didn''t you answer your phone earlier? I''ve been calling you,"


    The younger man frowned, "I''m busy, we''re doing our presentation.."


    His father sighed. "I guess it can''t be helped. Our guests already took their leave. I will arrange another one this next weekend."


    To their surprise, Max sprang from the sofa. With his fist into a ball, he heaved a deep breath. "Father, please stop arranging my engagements." he finally said.


    Athasia munched the last piece of her cookie, watching the drama in front of her unfold. She surely enjoys this. She never thought that she would also get the chance to see this father and son side of the story.


    Maxwell ceased his forehead, "What do you mean? Are you at your rebellious pace already? This is for your future, Max." He reasoned out, brushing his temples. He only got enough time to spend with his son. He''s always abroad, so it''s hard for him to settle this again.


    Maximilian affirmed his own words. He faced his father with a serious face. "Then I want it to be her!" he blurted out. "If you''re gonna arrange me with someone, then make it Athasia,"


    The young miss, who was about to deliver another cookie to her mouth, froze.

 Chapter 24 - Teasing In Tension

    THE NEXT DAY


    As soon as she put on her coat, her face immediately scowled. From her window, she saw a familiar car at the front gate.


    Athasia just finished breakfast and is now ready to go to school. She went to her room real quick to pick up her bag and put on her coat. However, as soon as she shifted her gaze on the window, she caught this black car in front of their gate.


    That car was very familiar. It was the one who drove her home this last weekend. Today is Monday, and she needed to go to school early.


    Benson knocked on the door, "Young Miss? The Young Master of Svestin is here to pick you up," he said.


    The door opened, and Athasia made her way to the hallways down the stairs. Mumbling as to why Max needs to do things like this. It''s true that she agreed to his proposal to go along with him to stop his father from pursuing his future engagements.


    ''Shouldn''t you be treating your princess better?''


    Athasia suddenly recalled what she said to him this weekend before hopping out of his car. Don''t tell me, Max really put some actions on her words?


    Behind her, Benson was smiling internally despite having a plain expression. He was like a proud uncle witnessing his child bloom. The Young Miss was a lively child when she was young. The Young Master of Svestin was always playing with her,but as soon as the two grew up, they changed a lot.


    Seeing their bond getting back together now, Benson has nothing in his mind but their happiness.


    "Aren''t you overreacting with that smile, Mister Benson?" Rosalie, the maid who had just finished cleaning the front area, stood beside the man. Both of them watched the Young lady.


    Even Benson didn''t know why she''s always appearing in times like this just to put a verdict on his expression. "Miss Rosalie, I didn''t know that you were there," he said.


    The maid, in her 30s, smiled. "I just finished cleaning the front yard and happened to see the Young Miss walking outside with you," she tucked her hair in her ears.


    Rosalie was the second head maid of the house; it was her duty to keep everything organized. She was also a little close to Benson. Both of them almost watched Athasia grow and cherished her.


    Benson was already 35 and yet, he couldn''t help but feel happy for the youngers. "It''s been so long since I saw the Young Miss talk to the Young Master," he stated.


    Rosalie elbowed him and chuckled, "And it''s also ages since I saw you with that smile," she nodded and walked inside.


    Meanwhile, as soon as Athasia reached the car, the driver standing near it opened the door for her. "Good morning, Young Miss, the young master wished to accompany you to school."


    The young lady nodded and stepped in. The first thing she saw was Max''s scowling face so early in the morning.


    "Good morning young master, thank you for fetching me today" Athasia teased.


    Max turned to the window, and the ride went on. "Good morning," he said indifferently. "Who gave you permission to call me young master? Do you want to be my pawn now?"


    Feeling the serious temper in his voice, Athasia was ready to mock him. "If you are going to compare me to a chess piece then I will claim myself as the queen."she said.


    "Such bold proclamation," Max flipped the book he was reading.


    Athasia noticed it that she got interested. The young man was focused, as if reviewing something.


    "You like school that much. Your brain will turn to crisp," she said, scooting over to get a look at the book Max was reading.


    The young man immediately closed the book and stared at Athasia with cold eyes. "What are you doing?"


    "Oh?" The Young Miss tilts her head up. "I want to know what kind of book you are reading," she said, not even minding the inches between their faces.


    The car passed by where the rays of the morning sun were going. It illuminated through the tinted car window, showering Max''s face. It touched the side of his head and his soft hair dandled beside his ear.


    "Go back to your seat." The side of his face was handsome, despite giving a cold tone.


    Athasia moved back to her seat. "Young Master, you are so stingy," she said it loud with a bit of a childish attitude. Calling him Young Master on purpose to tease.


    Max didn''t budge. He''s used to people calling him stingy, cold and unbelievable temperament. For him, if it''s not necessary, he will not put an effort into it. Those were what his father taught him, inside or outside the business world.


    "Keep quiet. I''m reviewing for my presentation later," he said, opening the book again to the page where he left.


    The side of his blue eyes caught Athasia''s body. He was in his seatbelt and this young lady over here was careless and forgot to put hers.


    Athasia pulled her bag. "Yes, the presentation..I might as well review here¡ª" she stopped when the young man leaned closer to her.


    Closer that she almost smelled his fragrant perfume. Max grabbed the belt from her right and said, "Don''t ride my car if you don''t know how to put your seatbelt," he locked it.


    However, when Max was about to pull back, the car jogged and he unconsciously slammed his palm beside Athasia''s head.


    His driver immediately slid the small private door separating them. "Young Master! Young Miss! I''m very sorry, there was a cat on the¨C" he trembled more after seeing their position as if he interrupted something.


    The Young Master turned to him. "Can you be more careful?" he sternly said.


    His driver felt the shivers and apologized for the last time before turning back to the road. He gulped and already felt those daggers from his young master. He told himself that it''s not his fault but the cat who crossed the road.


    Max retracted his hands and caught Athasia looking at him while grinning. He raised his one brow. "What?"


    Athasia''s lips curved into a smirk.. "Young Master, you have such cute ears," she said.

 Chapter 25 - Truth And Lies

    The strands of her ash brown hair gracefully swayed along the rhythm of her body movements as she trailed the pavements of the school. After blowing some tease on the male lead, she thought of something.


    ''Why would I ignore you if I can use you?''


    Athasia reached the main building where there were students going in the same directions as if there was some kind of commotion. Then she recalled that today was the day when the overall result of the exam will be posted on the bulletin board.


    Excited to see the result, she also went in the same direction. In the middle of the hallway, she bumped into Callie.


    The girl, who had just arrived at school, smiled after seeing her friend. "Athasia! G-Good morning," she greeted her. She excitedly raised her hand, holding a paper bag. "My m-mom made l-lunchboxes for us."


    Seeing the pink blush on her cheeks, Athasia gave her a pat. "Please tell Aunt Ellie my gratitude. Let''s eat lunch together then," she smiled and put her gaze back on the crowding students.


    The bulletin board wasn''t that far from them. It was only a mere few steps. "Is it the result of the overall exam?" she suddenly asked.


    Callie jerked her head towards the crowds too. "L-Let''s look at the r-results too.."


    However, as soon as they reached the bulletin board, the real deal hit them. There were no results of the overall exam and that''s the reason why some of the students, who were waiting, were wondering.


    "Why didn''t they post the results?"


    "Yeah, I want to know my ranking"


    "Is there a problem?"


    The speakers connected to the broadcast room squeaked. "Hello, students," that pleasant voice came from the student council president, Vincent. "We would like to apologize, but the results of the overall exam will be posted late,"


    The students gathered in the hallways, looked at each other with surprise on their faces. Everyone got shocked.


    "Students, please return to your respective classroom before the first period starts, thank you"


    Athasia and Callie looked at each other too, with both questions on them. ''What happened?''


    However, the young miss felt something in her instinct as to why the results were going to be posted late. She tapped Callie on the shoulder and said, "Go on first, I forgot to do something."


    Her friend didn''t ask her and walked away.


    When Callie was already meters away from her, Athasia headed to the main building''s second floor, where the main faculty office was.


    The delayed results were already enough to give her suspicions. It was the same day as when their teacher, Mister Sung, told them that he will post their exam results. He never did, because she happened to catch something in the faculty room.


    Athasia already thought of a lot of excuses to use when the teachers asked her why she went there. It made her thin pink lips curved up.


    Fortunately, on her way to the stairs, she bumped into someone from the student council. It was the nerdy secretary who''s always carrying thick documents. As soon as their bodies collided, the papers scattered around the area.


    Athasia picked it up and asked her if she could help.


    Getting a little help made the council secretary flattered that she quickly nodded her head. Because of the matter, all of the other members became very busy too, so she didn''t hesitate to accept the offer.


    The secretary was going to the student council office to have some photocopies of the papers and, just like Athasia wanted; the room was located near the guidance office.


    They passed through the quiet hallways and it gave her the chance to peek at the main faculty office and, to her surprise; it was empty.


    ''Are the teachers in their first classes now?''


    Athasia went inside the said room and laid the papers on the table. The secretary thanked her and said that she can use her name to make an excuse for her first class.


    She was smiling until she closed the door. However, as soon as he passed by the door of the guidance office, she halted.


    The door wasn''t transparent, but half of it was. It was a glass door with a blurry lower half and transparent upper half.


    Athasia was just tall enough to reach the transparent side.


    The first thing she recognized was the student standing in front of the teachers. The look on that girl''s face was somewhat amused and sorrowful.


    There''s no one who can make that expression but Amber. Her hand was extended as if she''s showing something to the teachers.


    The teachers'' faces changed as soon as they saw what was on the phone. As if they couldn''t believe what it was.


    Amber wiped her eyes like she was crying. She clenched her chest and showed a trembling expression.


    "What a nice act," Athasia almost snorted a laugh.


    Going back to Amber, she suddenly stepped backwards, and another figure fell on his knees in front of that pitiful student.


    Athasia widened her eyes after seeing Mister Sung, their homeroom teacher.


    Mister Sung was bawling and crying. His actions were like asking for forgiveness. He was on his knees in front of Amber, begging.


    Athasia couldn''t see what was on the phone, but she''s surely sure that it ruined the man''s reputation. Amber is powerful, not only her, but her family. Her father was one of the biggest sponsors of the school.


    Who would they believe? Of course, the powerful one.


    Amber wiped her eyes and looked down at Mister Sung. A secret grin stretched across her face that only Athasia could notice.


    Amber mumbled something that shocked Mister Sung. The pitiful man looked back at his co teachers as if he wanted someone to oppose the student. However, opposing Amber is like opposing half of the school directors.


    Just like normal employees, they''re also scared of losing their jobs. Besides, the evidence they''re believing was almost in front of them. That''s what they believed.


    Mister Sung almost grabbed Amber''s ankles. This time, he''s pitiful that he''s spouting something like his family for sure. The man pleaded hard, but Amber didn''t budge.


    Her brows knitted between sorrow and anger. She stepped back until she reached the corners of a desk behind her. Amber mumbled something again to the teacher,her lips were more expressive this time.


    Athasia was starting to feel furious. She wanted to barge in and oppose, but it will only ruin everything. After she saw Amber lift her foot towards Mister Sung''s face, she grabbed the door handle.


    "Athasia?"


    His gentle tone and sweet voice dragged on all the towering emotions in Athasia''s system.


    Vincent held the young miss'' hand and their eyes met. "What are you doing there?" he asked again. He just finished something in the student council office and was on his way back when he saw the young miss.


    Athasia gulped and looked down at her hand, held by the second male lead. "I-uhm..I was just¡ª"


    Vincent let her go, suddenly thinking that touching her was so rude of him. "Sorry, my body acted impulsively," he apologized. "Are you on your way back now?"


    The young miss nodded.


    "Mind if I accompany you?" Vincent showed her a sweet smile as he nodded.


    Athasia didn''t want to drag anyone into this matter, so she agreed to go back to her class now with the second male lead.


    They headed down straight to where her classroom was located. Vincent and her didn''t talk that much on the way.


    When they reached Athasia''s class, she said thanks.


    Vincent didn''t really mind it. He''s used to guiding the students back and walking the young lady he treated as a special was enough for him.


    "Please don''t wander around again," He leaned and gave Athasia a pat on the head, "I will be going now, goodluck to your class,"


    The young miss waved her hand until the second male lead disappeared from her sight. It was their homeroom and Mister Sung was in the guidance, so her classmates were a bit chaotic now.


    "Hey guys! Look at this!"


    "What''s that? Something on the school page?"


    "Who posted it?"


    "Man, it''s Amber. I thought she was absent!"


    "Look, isn''t it Mister Sung?!"


    Hearing their teacher''s name, everyone gathered in front, where one of her classmates was holding a tablet.


    "It''s a video! Play it! Play it!"


    Athasia felt something. She immediately took out her phone and checked the school''s page. There was indeed a video posted by Amber, and as soon as she played it, her amethyst eyes darkened.


    It was a quick video of Mister Sung kissing Amber''s shoes while crying and asking for forgiveness.


    Her grip on her phone became tighter when she read the caption below.


    A TEACHER PLEADING AND ASKING FOR FORGIVENESS AFTER MOLESTING HIS STUDENT

 Chapter 26 - The Real Drama Queen

    Lunch time came, and Callie noticed Athasia wasn''t picking up her food. She reached out and asked if the food prepared by her mother wasn''t to the young miss'' liking.


    "No, no. I like it," Athasia immediately blurted out.


    It''s true that she was in a state of thinking. After witnessing everything in that video. Just like a celebrity''s popularity, it spread all over the school and every student was talking about it now.


    For sure, Mister Sung will never be the righteous man anymore. His name was already tainted by a bunch of lies. There were some students who still couldn''t believe what happened.


    Some of them wanted to personally see the teacher and asked him if he really did the crime himself. However, the main building already got restricted and only the members of the student council can enter it. It was the school''s precaution to prevent commotion.


    Athasia finished her food with a bitter taste in her mouth. She felt sorry for Aunt Ellie, who prepared the food with love. Even if she wanted to enjoy it, Amber didn''t leave her mind.


    On their way back to their classroom, a black expensive car caught the student''s reaction in the open field. Even the ones taking their lunch breaks, relaxing under the trees got intrigued. From the main gate, they recognized that expensive car.


    It was Amber''s father who stepped out. This man has blonde hair just like his daughter. He''s wearing a well ironed gray suit. You can see the straight lines down to his pants. That brand must be expensive.


    Two men in black walked side by side with him, as if protecting him until he reached the main building, which was already restricted.


    "Did you see that?"


    "It''s Mr. Pittman, right? Amber''s father"


    "Eh? He really came for her daughter"


    Athasia heard the murmuring sounds louder in her ears. The gossip of the school''s top sponsor visiting the school to punish the perverted teacher immediately spread all over. The classes in the afternoon got vacant since all the faculty held a very important meeting.


    The teachers left some paperwork for the students. Even though they couldn''t attend the class, it was still their priority to sharpen their student''s brain. No one was saved.


    "Athasia, d-do you want to g-go to the library?" Callie asked with her brown eyes, looking at her friend.


    "Ah?" Athasia was so lost in thoughts.


    This time, Callie got the courage to speak up. "Athasia, y-you''ve b-been spacing out. I-I-uhmm..Are you r-really okay?" she asked, fidgeting with her fingers.


    Little did she know Athasia was thinking about something else. The young miss leaned her elbow on the desk and cupped her chin, then she asked. "Callie, will it hurt me if I slap someone with a thick face?" she blabbed out indifferently.


    Callie was, of course, surprised. Her face sunken a bit and blinked, "P-Pardon?" she wanted to make sure that she heard it right. Although Athasia was a straightforward person, she still couldn''t get it sometimes.


    The young miss leaned back, "Nevermind," under the desk. She clenched her fist.


    Ivan, her seatmate, gathered all his books and adjusted his glasses. It wasn''t because he had a bad eyesight. He''s using glasses because the fonts of the textbooks were small and he wanted to read them well. "The library is much quieter," he mumbled.


    Getting what he wanted to convey, Callie went back to her usual self. "L-Let''s go to t-the library then!" she cheerfully said.


    The library wasn''t that crowded; it was spacious despite having a vacant time for the students. Only the serious ones decided to go there to do their paperworks like them.


    The three sat at a long table and flipped through their books. The atmosphere fell into silence in no time. They all wore a focused expression, scribbling on their notes.


    Athasia, however, couldn''t put her hand at ease. She suddenly got the urge to slap someone, thick face or not.


    The table with the seniors across them leaned into each other as if they''re whispering something. In the years they spent at this University, they still couldn''t believe that Mister Sung, the righteous man, did it.


    It''s like a signal for Athasia to take action. Even the female lead in her novel grew fond of Mister Sung. He''s a strict but reasonable man.


    "Can anyone help me send this to the faculty office?"


    Athasia immediately sprang up, slamming her hand lightly on the table. ''Alright Amber, enough lies,''


    She smiled and waved her hand at the librarian. "Here Miss! I can help you." she walked closer to the desk and pulled the form from the librarian''s hand.


    The librarian, who seemed stricken, unconsciously nodded her head. She didn''t get the meaningful smile plastered on Athasia''s face.


    The young miss held the form dearly as she exited the library like a one-way ticket to heaven¨Chell.


    Well, it''s really her ticket towards the restricted main building. The librarian wasn''t really a part of everyday lessons and if they closed the library after giving paperworks to the students, where would they provide themselves some information?


    They needed the librarian for the recordings too, so they exempted her from the faculty meeting.


    Athasia reached the main building in just a minute, since it''s not that far. Her footsteps echoed in the quiet corridors. After reaching the upper floor, a student council member welcomed her and asked her what she''s doing there since the building was closed.


    She recognized her. It''s the nerdy secretary who she helped earlier. The young miss showed her the form and told her that the librarian had ordered her to submit it to the office.


    The student council secretary didn''t refute since she had trusted the other girl.


    As expected, the faculty office was empty. But she saw the table for the form and put it there. She scanned the room for a minute, passing her time.


    She had another reason.


    She peeked through the side of the door and found out that the secretary wasn''t there anymore. She fists up and compliments herself in her thoughts.


    Now, she can freely roam on that floor.


    Athasia exited the faculty office and closed the door quietly. Just when she turned her eyes towards the hallways, she saw a figure also exiting the main office, where the important meeting was being held.


    Bingo! It''s Amber.


    The blonde-haired girl wiped the tears in her eyes, and an evil smile immediately occupied her lips. Like a drama queen getting out of the theater.


    Athasia curved her lips into a smile and followed her target.


    Amber headed straight to the bathroom. To maybe wash her face from doing evil acts. She faced the reflection in the mirror and laughed. She''s amused by her drama.


    "You seemed to enjoy it too much,"


    After seeing another reflection, Amber almost screamed. She cursed out, "The fuck are you doing here?!"


    Athasia opened the faucet and felt the water flowing through her hand. "I''m washing my hands too, because it will get dirty very soon," she pulled a tissue after that.


    "Hah?!" Amber''s voice almost echoed in that enclosed bathroom. "Are you mocki¡ª"


    Before she could finish her sentence, a slap hit her face. It rang into her ears and she got deafened for a moment.


    Athasia backed away, "Oh my! It really hurts. Amber, you have such a thick face.." she emphasized every word as if throwing knives.


    "You bitch!" Amber gnashed her teeth and grabbed the young miss on the collar.


    "Tsk! Tsk! Tsk!" Athasia clicked her tongue in dismay. "You still haven''t learned your lesson?" she raised one brow and leaned closer to Amber''s ear. "You should stop acting like a goddamn damsel in distress,"


    That cold tone of voice brought something to the blonde girl as she unconsciously let go and backed away. "Who do you think you are to warn me?!" Amber exclaimed, boiling face.


    Athasia faced the mirror and fixed her collar.. Then she glanced at the girl with a sharper and colder gaze. "Amber, I''m not warning you¡­I''m threatening you,"

 Chapter 27 - Revenge I

    At the Guidance (Main office)


    The edge of his black expensive coat fluttered as he removed it. He handed it to one of his men and sat down. In front of him were the other professors and principal of the University.


    The girl with blonde hair just like him clung onto his arms, crying. Amber''s eyes were already swollen from earlier. Her father, Mr. Pittman, remained in his composure. He tapped Amber''s shoulders.


    "I-I''m begging you! I didn''t do anything, sir!"


    On the other hand, Mister Sung was kneeling on the floor with his hoarse voice, begging since earlier. He kept on pushing his innocence, but no one wanted to believe him. It''s not like they really didn''t. Now that one of the biggest school sponsors is here, no one wants to take his side.


    He was in a tight spot. Amber had a video as evidence.


    In that video, He''s pinning Amber against the wall of the faculty while his hand was under her uniform. In that video, the girl''s expression was frightened. She was crying and asking him to stop.


    "Are you saying that my daughter is lying?" Mr. Pittman''s cold voice delivered chills to him and to the faculty members surrounding them. No one wanted to talk.


    "She did it to her alone!" Mister Sung raised his voice to let them understand. "She threatened me, because she wanted to¡ª" he suddenly trembled when he met Amber''s eyes.


    She''s not crying this time, but she was furious. There were words in her eyes that only Mister Sung can understand.


    However, Mister Sung had family, and he has been working at the University for a long time. This is the first time for him to encounter such an issue. In fact, some of the students were scared of his strict teaching style.


    He will not just get kicked out of the school, his license was also involved here. How will he be able to survive and support his family if that happens?


    "Miss Amber, p-please t-tell them the t-truth..I-I''m begging you," he cried.


    Amber jumped from her seat. She immediately changed her expression into a pitiful girl. "D-Don''t touch me! P-Please!" she screamed.


    Mister Sung got startled by her sudden reaction, and he backed away. "I have family! I''m begging you!" he started to breathe heavily. "P-Please..I-I didn''t do a-anything," He desperately clung onto Mr. Pittman''s legs.


    The two men with Amber''s father grabbed the professor side by side to prevent him from touching their master.


    Mister Sung was still yelling his innocence. He gazed at his co teachers, but no one looked at him. Even the principal didn''t move a muscle. "You''re-really have to b-believe me¡­Pleasee..pleasee.."


    "I don''t want to see him anymore!" Amber panicked, gasping and clenching her chest. "Please send him away, father!" Her voice was pitiful as her father spoke.


    "No need for investigations. The evidence is already here." He looked at his daughter. "Amber, fix yourself. We are going home."


    With these words, the girl immediately stood up and bowed her head. She said that she will wash her face in the bathroom then come back.


    But it''s not even an hour before Amber came back. She stormed inside the office and fell on her knees, holding her right cheeks. Her bodyguards hurried to her side. "Young Miss! What happened?!"


    Amber gritted her teeth in anger. "Athasia Rymerton! That bitch slapped me!"


    ***


    "Achoo!"


    She wiped her nose, then continued to put her things inside her bag.


    "Here," Ivan handed her a tissue.


    "Are you s-sick?" Callie asked.


    Athasia wiped her nose with the tissue and smiled, "It''s nothing," she put her bag on her shoulders and it made her stare at her palm, the palm which met Amber''s face earlier. "It stings," she mumbled.


    Littleyoonie wasn''t really going that far. She knew how hard it was to be a teacher. Mister Sung is innocent, she knew, because she was the author of this unfinished novel. Though in her novel, the female lead didn''t interfere.


    Mister Sung was fired with his license. After that, all the students became wary of Amber. She became the University''s queen bee. Because of this power, even the teachers were so scared to drop her in exams.


    The female lead was left behind in the darkness and her University life became more traumatic.


    ''Why did I even do that to Athasia?'' she thought.


    Just when they exited the classroom, the speakers connected to the broadcasting room made an announcement.


    ''Attention, Athasia Rymerton, we badly needed you in the guidance office. Please come as soon as possible. Thank you.''


    "A-Athasia?!" Callie clung to her friend with concern. "W-Why did t-they¨C"


    The young miss ruffled Callie''s head. "It''s okay, I will be fine." She glanced at Ivan. "You two go home without me,"


    "But A-Athasia?!" Callie retracted her hand, watching her friend''s back walking away.


    "Let''s go. She knows what to do," Ivan added.


    It took a half minute for Athasia to reach the guidance office. Because she passed by the other building for another reason.


    "Good afternoon," she greeted, closing the door behind. Everyone was there, from the principal and other teachers. Their appearances were the same as what she wrote in her novel, so she had no difficulty recognizing them.


    "Where''s Mister Sung?" she blurted out unconsciously.


    "Miss Rymerton," the principal knitted his brows. Hearing that name was a shame for the school. "We called you here for a different matter."


    Just like what she describes in the novel, a strict principal.


    Before Athasia could open her mouth again, Amber yelled, "She slapped me!" pointing at her.


    "..ppfftt.." Athasia snorted a laugh, which surprised everyone. After that, she crossed her arms and raised one of her brows at Amber. "So what if I slapped you? You deserved it,"


    "Miss Rymerton!!!!"


    The principal sprang and slammed his hands on the desk. "Is that what the school taught you?"


    Athasia straightened her lips. "I apologize, but will you give at least permission to explain why she deserves my slap?" She said it straight to the principal''s face.


    Amber gnashed her teeth in silence. From the other lady''s words, it''s like she really deserved to be slapped.


    Mr. Pittman recognized her. He smirked and crossed his legs. "I see, you''re the illegitimate daughter of the Rymerton Family, right?" he asked with sarcasm.


    The Young Miss glanced at him. "Yes, I am. Nice to see you in person. Mr. Pittman" she emphasized ironically.


    Amber clenched her fist, "Dad! Do we really have to let her explain? Do you not believe me?" she threw a tantrum.


    "Why? Are you scared?" Athasia smirked. "I might spill some surprises. Aren''t you excited?" She was going to laugh again, but the principal stopped her.


    "Miss Rymerton, get to the point. No matter what happened, we will not let this slide,"


    Athasia leaned beside the door and took out her phone. Then, without a pause, she said. "She failed the exam, so she dragged Mister Sung here." She narrowed her eyes at Amber. "I have a video too,"


    To everyone''s surprise, the other girl became silent. She started trembling. "I-It''s not true!! You''re lying!!"


    "Oh, really?" Athasia asked sarcastically. "I have other evidence too," she opened the door.


    A girl of the same height as her entered the room. She had a black hair tied in a bun, showing the uneasiness on her face. "G-Good a-afternoon,"


    Along with the teachers and principal, Amber was more shocked.


    Athasia curved an evil smirk, "Say hi to your friend, Amber..."

 Chapter 28 - Revenge II

    "You two go home without me."


    She turned around and waved her hands. Athasia was already expecting this, but she didn''t expect this early. Well, since Amber''s father was still in the office, she might as well give them a show.


    She passed by building D. It was where the gymnasium was. She went there because she needed someone to come with her.


    As soon as she stepped inside the gym, she remembered Antonette first. However, the one she wanted to see wasn''t her, it was someone else¨CJulie.


    Julie was sitting on the bench. She was a part of the volleyball club and today; they were doing a free practice. Athasia sat beside the girl, "Hi Julie,"


    Her voice delivered shivers to the girl with long black hair. Julie was Amber''s friend, the one who''s always with her.


    The side character littleyoonie almost threw out of the picture by not describing her well. Now that she was seeing her close, she can now say that Julie has an ordinary face.


    "What are you doing here?!" Julie sprang from the bench, clenching her small towel on her chest. She seemed shocked and¡ªscared?


    "You looked scared," Athasia said it out. "...As if I''m going to eat you," then she chuckled.


    Silence before she continued, "Well, I''m not really gonna eat you, but I can throw you out of this school."


    By this, Julie gasped. She looked around as if checking if no one heard that. Her family wasn''t really that rich like Amber or Athasia. They have a hold of small branches of a popular convenience store.


    Athasia took out her phone from her pocket, scrolled through her gallery and showed something to Julie. "Did you see Amber''s post on the school page?" she grinned. "I might also post one these days,"


    "P-Please don''t!"


    Julie grabbed her hand, her trembling fingers turned cold. "Don''t do this¡­I didn''t really like it. She was the one who initiated it," her voice was cracking.


    "Interesting." Athasia pulled her hand back. "What are you gonna do about it?" She looked back to the wide gymnasium, to the other students taking their practices.


    "I know you came here for me," Julie finally broke it. Her hands were still trembling and if she didn''t sit down, her knees might give up, too.


    The video Athasia showed her wasn''t the one Amber posted. It was a different video, involving her, Amber, and Mister Sung inside the faculty.


    Athasia playfully grinned. "You know I''m really not into threatening people, but since you two enjoy it so much.." she leaned closer to Julie''s ears. "I might as well enjoy it, right?" she whispered.


    Julie wasn''t really that mean. She''s just doing it for Amber. That''s why the moment she heard Athasia, the hairs on her nape all stood up. She suddenly felt scared.


    Athasia scooted back. "You know, it''s always your choice that affects you. You can solve this in the guidance office with me and clear your name or be surprised tomorrow morning."


    She turned to Julie. "I''m not warning you anymore¡­I''m threatening you," the same words she said to Amber.


    ***


    Back to the Guidance Main Office¡­


    "Miss Rymerton, get to the point. No matter what happened, we will not let this slide"


    A grin playfully stretched Athasia''s cheeks. She leaned beside the door and took out her phone. "She failed the exam, so she dragged Mister Sung here," she stated without a pause.


    And Amber''s reaction surprised everyone. She turned shut, but her hands were clenching as if her throat became dry.


    "Miss Amber Pittman, is this true?" the principal asked.


    "It''s n-not true!!" she stammered, pointing at the young Miss Rymerton. "You''re lying!! Don''t make up stories!!" she snarled.


    "Oh, really?" Athasia opened the door. "I have other evidence too,"


    Julie entered the room and felt the uneasiness in the atmosphere. Her hair was tied now, exposing her face. Her eyes couldn''t lie. She glanced at the professors and principal. "G-Good afternoon," she meekly said.


    Amber was more than shocked. She shuddered as if someone poured her cold water. Seeing her reaction, Athasia got amused. "Say hi to your friend, Amber,"


    With a confused look, the principal asked again. "Excuse me, Miss Rymerton, but can you please explain everything? You should have come sooner to us the moment you knew this matter,"


    "You never asked me, sir," Athasia answered. "Can I connect my phone to your projector, please? I have a very important thing to show you all. Especially to Amber,"


    After a couple of minutes, the lights in the office became dim. They rolled down all of the window blinds. Athasia connected her phone to the projector and played something.


    In that video, Amber, together with Julie, was in the faculty office. Amber''s voice can be heard clearly.


    "Mister Sung, I want to retake the exams before you post the results. I will not accept this,"


    Mister Sung responded to her, "But Amber, it''s for all the subjects and we need to follow the school policy. I will not tolerate this. I already gave you all enough time to review."


    Amber slammed her hands on the desk. "If you don''t want to do it, I will make you do it." She started unbuttoning her uniform and threw her phone to Julie. "Make this a clear copy,"


    All the teachers gasped, and the principal couldn''t even blink his eyes.


    The video continued.


    Amber grabbed Mister Sung''s hand and put it under her uniform. She pulled the man as if she was being pinned against the wall. "Julie! Take this!" she yelled.


    After that, Amber''s expression changed. From her evil look, she cried and shed tears. She acted like a victim and spit some pitiful words, just like on the video she showed.


    Then she threatened Mister Sung that he only had 24 hours to let Amber retake the test. If he doesn''t do it, she will spread the video, and it really happened.


    Athasia captured all of this. It was the time when she followed Amber to the 2nd faculty office. The door happened to be half open.


    The video ended, leaving everyone silent. For sure, by now, all the guilt and regrets of throwing Mister Sung were now gushing through their systems. No one even moved to turn off the projector.


    Amber couldn''t speak. She slid to the floor, gritting her teeth from embarrassment. It wasn''t only in front of them, but also in front of her father. She''s shaking so hard that she couldn''t even blink.


    "I-I''m sorry!" Julie kneeled in front of everyone and said that she really didn''t want to do it. "I will accept any punishment. Just please don''t expel me," she cried.


    Athasia raised her hand. "I will also accept any punishment for not reporting this immediately. I didn''t know that it would turn out like this," she has her respect for Mister Sung.


    Mr. Pittman, who was feeling all the tension, grabbed his coat and looked down at her daughter. "Stand up, Amber." her voice was cold.


    Amber picked herself and stood up, breathing heavily from shock too. She raised her head. "D-Daddy¡­I...It''s no¡ª" She was frozen.


    Mr.. Pittman slapped her and the tingling sound rang in her ears. "You''re a disgrace,"

 Chapter 29 - Despair And Pity

    It was just the second week of school. There are a lot of faces, some things an elite student can do. Talk to friends, join clubs and read books in the library. They can also use their time to roam around the University. With a high maintenance school, for sure you couldn''t help it. However, some things still remained hidden in the dark.


    "You stupid bitch! We already told you to stop acting close to the homeroom teacher!"


    "She deserves a beating. She even told the principal that I''m smoking on the rooftop."


    "Brains won''t always work here, do you understand?"


    A bunch of first years were gathered at the back of the old stock room. It was in the corner of the University, where students wouldn''t even be tempted to go.


    In the muddy ground was a student with black hair. Her face didn''t have any bruises, but her stomach was throbbing from the kicks she''s been receiving since earlier.


    This group of girls was her classmates. They dragged her to the back of the old stockroom and pushed her down. Is it because she''s always standing in class? The teachers favor her too.


    She thought that her life would change when she entered highschool. She wanted to make some friends and lived like a normal kid. It was her first time in this elite University. Her family wasn''t even that popular. They just own some convenience store branches.


    "Hey!"


    A kick landed on her stomach again, making her cough. She tried to lift her hand and blocked the kicks, though she didn''t succeed.


    "Answer me! Apologize!" the girl who''s grabbing her hair yelled.


    Laughter echoed in her ears.


    "She''s not gonna apologize to you."


    "I don''t care. Even though she apologized, I will still beat her. My cigarettes were expensive and that damn teacher just took it from me!"


    "Is it from your dad? The one he got from abroad?"


    "Yes! This bitch right here doesn''t know how expensive it was!"


    The three girls surround the pitiful girl again, with their judgemental eyes. Seeing their bully crawling in the mud wasn''t enough for them.


    "Hey, get me the broom over there."


    Hearing this, the other girl jolted. "What are you gonna do to her? I thought we would just scare her?"


    "Move bitch! I need to knock some sense into her. I need to mark her!" She''s the one who took the old broom stick. The other girls tried to stop her.


    "Hey, I thought we wouldn''t hurt her face? The teachers will notice it!"


    The girl with the broom stick pushed her, "Get out of my way! Know your place! She''ll never tell them what I will do." With a sinister laugh, she raised her hand.


    Julie put her hand on her head and closed her eyes. She''s already trembling just by imagining herself with a cracked head. She couldn''t even run away, she couldn''t even lift herself. Tears formed in her eyes and she cried.


    However, the broomstick landed on the ground beside her head. Everyone screamed, and they shuddered.


    With her blurry eyes, Julie tried to peek in the side of her arms.


    The three girls who''s bullying her were now frozen into their stance. And the one who was supposed to hit her was on the ground, leaning on the wall of the old stockroom with bleeding ears. An arrow was stuck in her hair.


    That arrow was the one from the archery club. A shadow approached her.


    Everything was blurry and the only thing Julie recognized was the blonde strands of hair.


    "P-Please let me go!" The girl leaning on the wall shuddered, her voice cracked. "I-I.." she turned around and found out that she was left behind by her friends. "Please let me go!!"


    The one who struck the arrow beside her ears chuckled. She laughed as if mocking the fear of the girl. She put the bow down and clenched the girl''s chin. "This is my practice ground. I don''t want any pest running freely here, do you understand?" her voice sent chills.


    "I''m sorry! I''m sorry! I-I w-will not l-loiter here anymore!" And after that, she pushed the blonde girl and ran away.


    The wind blew, and it rolled on Julie''s skin. She tried to fight the pain throbbing from her stomach and lifted herself. She almost puked.


    "Hey, are you alright?"


    The blonde girl took her arrow from the wall and put it on her bow. She angled it up into the sky. "I really wanted to hit her eyes," she mumbled.


    Julie shuddered from this. She pushed herself and leaned on the wall, holding her stomach. One of her eyes was still wincing from pain, but she still managed to familiarize the girl.


    She had blonde hair and green eyes with dark bags under. Taller than her with the uniform of the archery club. Some patches on her arms and scars. On her right chest was a plate name. AMBER was the name.


    "Amber," Julie mumbled the name unconsciously.


    Amber lowered her bow and arrow and gazed at the girl. "Who told you to call me by my name? Do you want to get bullied more?" her voice was stern.


    Julie brushed it off and looked Amber in the eyes. "Thank you."


    Amber was quite startled. She didn''t even order her to speak. Her brows knitted. "Don''t talk to me!" she exclaimed. "How dare you, a pushover, talk to me? If you want to thank me, then show your worth."


    Julie can clearly tell that she''s being looked down on. However, she didn''t feel any fear from Amber.


    "Pick yourself up. I will not help you. You look disgusting right now," Amber snarled at her.


    Instead of processing it as an insult, it made Julie smile. She supported herself and stood up. After that, she gasped for air. It''s still lunchtime, and she has a spare uniform in her locker. She watched the young lady walk away from her.


    The gloomy atmosphere around her disappeared, and she found peace in it. If she''s an enemy or an ally in her story, it doesn''t matter because for Julie. Amber was her hero.


    And that''s how the two of them met.

 Chapter 30 - Punishment

    "You''re a disgrace,"


    Those words rang louder in her ears than the pain. She shuddered and everything turned blank. The tears from her eyes flowed down, screaming the words that left her mouth. It reflected into her and it made her suffocate.


    The faculty gasped, witnessing that moment. Mr Pittman ignored Amber. He walked towards the principal and settled everything. He told them that Amber will make a public apology on the school page to clear Mister Sung''s name.


    Athasia, who was standing still, noticed Julie.


    The girl who''s always following Amber. The girl who''s always doing anything Amber wanted was crying.


    With this, Amber stood up and dashed outside. Her heavy footsteps echoed in those quiet hallways. She ran with her trembling legs while crying hard. She knew everything was her fault. Everything fucked up. Everything is always going to not be what she wanted.


    She''s being selfish.


    She''s being too hard on herself with those simple grades.


    Maybe if she studies well, she will get a higher score.


    She cared so much about her father''s reputation that she didn''t want to fail.


    Amber continued running in that building. She didn''t bother whether her breaths would soon turn short. She just wanted some place to reflect everything.


    In those hazy thoughts surrounding her. Someone followed.


    "Amber!!! Please wait!"


    That voice struck her, and she halted halfway. She knew that voice well. Amber knew her well.


    "Amber, please wait!!"


    Julie almost stumbled and slid onto the cold floor. The afternoon sun was already going down, and the breeze was starting to feel cold. However, she ignored it all. She lifted her head. "Please talk to me,"


    Amber flinched, and her fist clenched. She thought she was true. She thought that they were friends. She thought that she would take her side.


    "SO WHY?!!!" Amber yelled, gripping her tightening chest. "WHAT THE FUCK IS WRONG WITH YOU?!"


    With this, Julie pulled Amber''s hand. "I''m sorry," she was crying again. "I''m sorry, I''m sorry.." her tears flowed down as she also snapped. "I did it for you,"


    "For me?!" Amber slapped her hand away. "Are you kidding me?! What part of that was for me? Are you dumb?!" She finally faced Julie. "I told you to keep your mouth shut!!!"


    She lifted her hand and was about to slap the girl. However, her inner self unconsciously stopped halfway. She couldn''t bring to hurt Julie.


    Amber turned around, "Leave me, I don''t want to see your face."


    Julie gasped and wiped the tears from her eyes. She knew what Amber meant by that. She tried once again. "Amber, I''m not leaving you. I told you, didn''t I?..We will always be together.."


    The pain from her clenching fist crawled back to her chest. Amber turned speechless. Her eyes turned blurry and before she could realize, tears formed. "Always..together?" her voice started cracking. "Don''t make me¡­laugh,"


    "Amber!!!" Julie hugged her behind. "Just please listen to me." She begged. "Just listen to me. I don''t want you to be hurt more in the future, so please¡­don''t be like this."


    Amber swallowed the lump in her throat. That hug wasn''t warm, it was full of sorrow and the loneliness of two emotions mixing were making it more heavier.


    Julie understands Amber. Even though she turned to something she couldn''t recognize anymore, she will stay by her side. All she did was to put Amber on the right path. It''s also hurting her to see Amber like this, ever since that day.


    She tightened her hug. Not sure if it will comfort Amber, just like the old times. "Believe me.." she whispered. "I did it for you. You need to stop."


    However, Amber restrained herself from giving up, so she pushed Julie away. She''s good at it, anyway. Pushing people away after using them. Is that why her life fucked up after that day?


    No matter what she did, she couldn''t bring back anything anymore. The pain burdening her was just getting more and more heavier that she thought she might do something out of her mind again.


    "Don''t act like you really care.." Those words were heavy. "No one really understands me, Julie.."


    Yes, that''s what she''s always been like. Selfish and ungrateful for her life. The villain in every story. She deserves it anyway. She''s always looking for pain, so maybe this time was a trigger for her.


    And Julie will never let that trigger happen.


    "Amber, just please listen to me! I''m here. You''re not alone..We will face this together, right?" She stepped forward. "I''m here this time. I will help you."


    "I DON''T NEED YOUR FUCKING HELP!"


    Her voice resounded in the hallways, and it made Julie flinch.


    Amber pushed her against the wall. "Why is it so hard for you to leave me alone?!! Are you being dumb?!! I told you to leave me alone!!! I don''t need you!! I don''t need fucking anyone!!" she screamed and her eyes cried.


    As soon as she released all the anger in her voice, she slumped on the cold floor. Amber wiped her tears, and she started to laugh.


    Laughing and mocking herself. "I''m an idiot," she whispered. "I deserve this punishment, right?" she grinned. "This is why Sam left me and hated me,"


    "Amber!"


    Julie panicked after hearing that name and grasped Amber''s shoulders. "What are you talking about?" she barely said those words since her chest was also suffocating her from crying.


    "She didn''t hate you, Amber. You know that, stop saying nonsense." She grabbed the girl''s cheeks to face her. "Sam never hated you, okay?"


    Amber turned silent. She calmly removed Julie''s hands from her shoulders. She barely made the move. She didn''t have the strength to shout anymore. "I''m okay now.."


    When she stood up, Julie also stood up. "Ambe¨C"


    "I..I''m g-going home.." Amber immediately cut her.


    When her friend disappeared into that hallway, Julie remained in her stance, only wishing for Amber to be fine.


    From behind, someone handed her a handkerchief.


    "You need this," Athasia said.

 Chapter 31 - Broken Friendship

    As soon as she reached home by taxi, Amber headed straight upstairs to her room.


    When she opened the door, the darkness embraced her. Only the rays from the window give light. She dragged her heavy body towards the bed and slumped there. Instead of laying, he slid down and leaned.


    When she turned her gaze towards the wall. Her favorite bow and arrow hanging near the frame caught her sight. Her chest tightened more and, along with that feeling, he remembered someone.


    Amber once again felt the anger roasting her body, so she grabbed something near her and threw it to the wall. It was her alarm clock. It flew straight and hit the bow so it fell down. This is not the time to remember that first friend she had.


    She didn''t even want to remember her again. However, the situation she was in right now made her do it. Everything flashes right back into her mind that her eyes started to wet again.


    ***


    The strands of her black hair in the middle of the summer air as she was running through the garden in the backyard. Her smile was sweet and genuine.


    "Amber! Come here!!!"


    Amber followed her and immediately frowned as soon as she saw what it was. "Really? Sam, it''s just a stray cat!" she pouted.


    Sam picked up the chubby gray cat and rubbed it against her cheeks. "Look at how cute it is! Kyaa~" she was so happy about it.


    The girl with blonde hair snorted at her. "You''re not a kid anymore, Sam. Why are you hyped up with just a cat?"


    Sam put the cat onto her chest and ruffled Amber''s hair. "And why are you so angry? Are you jealous? Don''t worry, even though you''re not a cat, I will give you my attention," then she laughed.


    With this, Amber couldn''t refute. She grew up with Sam by her side all the time since kindergarten. Their parents were friends in high school and decided to let their kids meet, too. Amber and Sam were childhood friends, like a true sibling to each other.


    They''re at Amber''s house right now because of summer break. After two months they will be going to enter highschool too and both of them were planning ongoing to the same school together.


    "Today''s weather is so hot, let''s head inside.." Sam left the other girl there, who hurriedly followed her.


    "Hey! Don''t tell me you''re going to bring that cat in my house?!" Amber protested. "You can''t do that!"


    Sam laughed at her and told her that she will be leaving it on the porch.


    "Amber, what were your plans when you got admitted to high school?"


    Amber halted and pondered. That question was so sudden that her mind turned blank. "How about you? What do you want to do?"


    Getting her question back, Sam pinched the cat''s cheeks. "I''m going to learn archery and play in the nationals." She said it with a cheerful smile and beaming eyes. She''s always saying that ever since they were little.


    Amber walked forward. "Archery? You''re really serious about it?"


    Sam nodded. "Yes, I want to be an archer. Don''t you want to try it too?"


    By this, Amber paused. She always follows Sam everywhere and always believes in what she says. So this time, she wanted to give it a try, too.


    "Sure! I will do that!"


    Sam slowed her pace and held Amber''s hand. "Don''t worry, I will not leave you. We''re in this together if we both failed.." then she chuckled.


    ***


    "Always together? Don''t fuck with me!!!"


    Amber gritted her teeth. She once again picked up something and threw it on the wall. "I don''t want to hear it anymore!!! You''re all going to leave me!!"


    All she felt was anger and pity for herself. Those words were still heavy for her. It was like a broken diss she kept on hearing every time. Lies that cover one''s friendship.


    Her words trembled, and she found herself crying again. She gasped and clenched her chest. "Where were you when I needed you the most, Sam?" she felt the pain again.


    The pain of being abandoned. The regret and loneliness she endured for a year. She was alone when she succeeded. The person she''s expecting to be there wasn''t beside her.


    Amber curled and hugged her knees. Then a frame from her desk fell straight in front of her eyes. It shattered slowly and the small glasses got scattered on the floor. The photo behind that frame went in her line of sight.


    It was when both of them entered the archery club at school. Sam was holding the bow while Amber was holding the arrow.


    Her trembling fingers picked up that photo and caressed Sam in it. In this moment, she felt that the world was so unfair. Leaving other people to suffer for someone''s regrets.


    Amber clenched the photo as small sobs escaped her lips. Even though she wanted to curse Sam as if she''s here, she couldn''t. She crumpled the photo. It was the only one she had with her first friend in it.


    Didn''t Sam tell her that they were in this together? Wasn''t she the one who''s always by her side?


    Amber was too tired to cry anymore. All she felt was the burden pulling her from stepping forward. She just stared at the thing she was holding until her eyes dried up and it fell from her hands.


    She completely became a different person after what happened. After she experiences something she shouldn''t be feeling. She was still young at that time, and some things were still unclear to her.


    There were so many questions that she wanted to ask, but couldn''t.


    Is this the punishment? If she didn''t become the best and remained on the bottom, will Sam still treat her as her friend? If she didn''t join the archery, will Sam still comfort her in times like this?


    "You are so cruel, Sam." Amber cursed out.. "I hate¡­you."

 Chapter 32 - Suffocated

    "Hey, Sam why do you want to win the nationals?"


    "Me? Because I want to make my grandmother proud. You know she''s always spending time at the hospital and she enjoys watching me do archery,"


    ***


    She blinked and found that it''s already morning. She was dreaming again. It was almost a week after she made a public apology on the school page. Mister Sung was back to his work too, and the classes went on.


    A knock resounded behind her door.


    "Miss Amber, your father asked you to come and eat breakfast with him." it was one of the maids from their house.


    She didn''t answer and waited for the maid to go away before stepping out of her bed. She sluggishly washed her face. The broken frame wasn''t there anymore, and the photo she despised the most was out of her sight.


    In the right corner of her wall, the bow and archery hanging on it was still there. She felt her chest throb again and left the room immediately.


    In the dining room, there was a man reading an early newspaper. His curly blonde hair was slicked back, showing his expressionless face. Amber walked towards and pulled a chair. "Good morning, dad." She greeted.


    Mister Pittman didn''t look at her and asked. "Have you been taking your medicines?" he flipped another page. "You should finish it by the end of the month,"


    Amber nodded. "Yes, I am taking it." she lowered her gaze and her eyes reflected something heavy only she could feel. Those medicines were all useless for her. Everything still ended up bringing her nightmare back. She doesn''t even know if she can consider herself okay right now.


    "Dad, I''m sorry¡­for being a burden." Her voice almost cracked. She clenched her fist under the table and hardly swallowed the lump in her throat.


    The middle-aged man paused, putting the newspaper down. He took his cup and sipped from his coffee. "Amber, doing this won''t give you peace of mind. You know how badly you wanted those medications back then. I guess everything wasn''t enough for you.."


    He rested his forehead on his palm and sighed. "Can you just be normal, Amber?" he said with disappointment.


    The girl held back her breath and felt something choking her. A suffocating atmosphere only she can feel. She lowered her gaze to the food and immediately felt nauseous. Even though Amber didn''t want to eat, she needed to finish her breakfast in front of her father.


    She was raised to be like that. She needed to do things according to her father''s order in order to survive.


    ***


    "Hey, look. It''s Amber"


    "She really went to school?"


    "I heard she made a public apology for accusing Mister Sung,"


    "Really? How shameful"


    I heard she''s been bullying students too"


    The gazes grew more noticeable to Amber while she''s walking through the hallways. It became more pressured when she entered the classroom. The atmosphere immediately shrank as she walked all the way to her desk.


    The students, who seemed to be enjoying her, backed away when Amber turned her head to them. Her eyes raged in a fiery pit. "WHAT?!" she yelled. Are they enjoying judging her now? Because she made such an embarrassment.


    These people once begged her back then. She used to dominate them with her tiny hands, but now, the tables have turned. No one will look at her the same as before anymore. Just like here, they will also be eaten by their insecurity, slowly dragging Amber down.


    However, none of them really wanted to do such a thing to her. One of her classmates gathered herself and stepped forward. She was once bullied by Amber. "Y-Y¨CYour desk¡­" her trembling voice let out.


    Amber immediately walked towards her desk and as soon as she saw what the nerd girl meant, she shuddered and her eyes widened. There were carved letters on her desk like bitch, shameful, expulsion, kick out. It was all curved deeper. She saw one of her books from the lockers there. It was ripped to pieces.


    Everything was a mess. Those words echoed in her mind as if it was making its own voice to mock her. She succumbed to darkness with those evil eyes looking at her. Amber grabbed her head. "STOP!" She yelled.


    She looked around and saw those smirking lips laughing at her. That darkness didn''t leave her side until she dashed outside.


    Amber ran outside the classroom. She wanted to escape everything. She didn''t want to see those eyes and mocking lips. Her legs felt numb from running. She didn''t know where to go, either. Amber only wanted some place to hide from everything.


    Her heart was pounding, squeezing her breaths. She felt like there were magnets pulling her back. It was suffocating. Is this what they felt when Amber bullied them? The fear and pain were shrinking her more.


    When she finally lost all her strength, Amber stumped on the cold floor. Her knees finally give up. Her shaking hands rummaged through her bag. It should be right there. She didn''t forget to put it inside, right? The medications prescribed to her were a bit high. Maybe she was just hallucinating back then.


    She thought that things like this were only in movies, but experiencing it real was fearsome. Her patience ran out. She waved the bag abruptly, letting everything from inside scattered on the floor.


    A small container rolled in front of her eyes, going in the opposite direction. Amber was already shaking, and she had no strength to get up, so she crawled with her hands and knees to reach for it.


    At the end of the hallway, a student carrying some paper from the faculty office was stunned. She froze upon seeing Amber. Seeing the other girl in that state startled her.


    "Amber!!" Julie dashed to her friend, and she picked the white container. She knew what it was. She knew this medication her friend was taking.


    "Here," she gave it to Amber, who''s now crying while trembling. Julie grabbed her into her embrace and patted her back.


    "I''m here, Amber, calm down! Take deep breaths!" She tried to comfort her, brushing her hair.


    Amber gasped and immediately took the medicine. It was just a small white pill, so it absorbed quickly into her throat. By this, her breaths became stable, and she realized that Julie was the one hugging her.


    That medicine calms her down, and the side effect is to make her sleepy. That''s why she''s rarely taking it when at school.


    Amber''s jade green eyes blinked, and she found warmth from the one patting her back.

 Chapter 33 - Expectations

    When Amber woke up, she was already in the school infirmary. Laying on the bed with the curtains beside her. She squinted and blinked her eyes, and then a sleeping figure immediately greeted her.


    Julie was sleeping on the side of her bed, and it seems like the girl looked out for her the whole time. Amber wasn''t amused nor thankful. She gripped the blanket and panicked.


    These actions woke up Julie. She was surprised to see Amber was finally fine.


    "Amber! Are you okay now?" she was about to check on her when the other girl slapped her hand away.


    "Don''t touch me!" Amber snarled at her.


    Julie''s eyes immediately widened, and she recalled what had just happened earlier. She backed away. "Calm down, I''m not going to hurt you.." she said in a gentle tone.


    Her words did not even please Amber. The person she didn''t want to see and thought that she got betrayed by her was in front of her eyes. The one who helped her is this person. "I told you to stay away from me."


    Julie knew it was possible. However, she''s the only one who knew Amber well. They were friends for almost half a year now. She knew why Amber was acting like this and why she had an attack earlier.


    She couldn''t just leave her in the hallways like that. She already excused herself to look out for Amber. The school nurse wasn''t around either, so it was a little inconvenient before she left her.


    Before she could speak, Amber grabbed her. "Are you the one who did it?!! Did you purposely carved those stupid shits on my desk?!" she exclaimed. Recalling all the things she saw on her desk that she couldn''t even set foot in her class.


    Julie was taken aback, and she gasped. "Amber, what are you talking about? You know I will never do such horrible things to you," she explained herself.


    "Liar!" Amber yelled, scumbling on the bed like a kid. "I don''t want to hear anything from you anymore! I said I don''t want to see your face!" she started to feel suffocated again. "I hate you! I hate you so much! You are the same! You and Sam!! Every¡ª"


    Her eyes widened as soon as she was enveloped in an embrace. She suddenly calmed down and remained in a daze.


    "Amber.." Julie whispered, brushing the girl''s hair. "Please stop suffering. I don''t want to see you like this." she swallowed the lump in her throat. "It''s hurting me.." she let out a heavy breath and bit her lower lip.


    Julie was there, and she knew how Amber hated what she did, but she didn''t do it for her own sake. It was a mistake for Amber to reflect. She was blinded by the thing she saw wrong in the world.


    "Liar," the girl in her embrace mumbled. She clenched the blanket beside her and started to feel her chest getting heavier. Even though she wanted to push Julie, her hands won''t move. She was frozen to where she was right now.


    If she wasn''t in a state like this, Amber would laugh at herself. The way she looks so weak right now. Her hands were only trembling like a kid while being embraced like this. She hated this feeling. The feeling of attachment to people she''s scared to trust.


    Her eyes started to feel blurry and before she could realize. She was already crying, sobbing little by little. It''s been so long since she saw herself crying like this. She held her emotions very well back then until now.


    Amber thought that she was good at it. She thought that she''s already numb from the pain she couldn''t even let go. Why can''t she let go, though? Is it because she was guilty? Regretting?


    If there were things she wanted to regret, it was the time when she met Sam.


    Yes, it was the time when she''s still fragile like a kid. She grew up around her like they were siblings. She trusted her so much that she looked up to her when Sam became the best archer in their school.


    Everyone loves Sam and adores her. She became a role model to those who still wanted to achieve their dreams, including Amber.


    She was content, actually, to be Sam''s shadow. She will never step forward because she was scared that she might exceed more than Sam or fail to the very bottom.


    Amber took archery with her childhood friend. Sam even explained everything to her father just to get permission.


    She never liked sports so much the way she liked archery. For Amber, doing the things she likes next to Sam was a blissful feeling. It calms her heart and caresses her soul.


    But sometimes, you don''t need to expect something in return. The fewer expectations you have, the more you will ignore disappointments.


    "Amber, is it true that you stole the gold place from Sam?"


    "Right, they said that she should be the one who won, but you tried to interfere in her final blow"


    "I thought you two were best friends? You''re always following her"


    "Aren''t you content to be her shadow that you desperately stole the spotlight for her?"


    "It will be more fun if she''s the one who won"


    "Do you really have a talent for archery?"


    The expectations from those words made her disappointed. Why? She''s just only doing the thing she loves.


    That day, Amber felt that her whole world turned its back to her. The first time she felt real pain that made its way through her heart, piercing a big hole that can''t never be filled again.


    The person Amber was expecting to take her side and covered those lies around her was the first one who turned her back from her.


    "Amber, I didn''t know that you''re this desperate to surpass me. You know that I badly want to win the competition. Why? Are you envious? You should just have stayed at my back like a shadow for the rest of your life."


    "How pathetic,"

 Chapter 34 - Wronged

    Julie decided to leave Amber after calming down from crying. She knew that it was the best way. It was enough for her to comfort the girl. She still needed some time to be alone by herself.


    Julie already excused herself from the class and informed the school nurse about Amber''s situation. She was the only one that was close to the girl. Because of this, she thought of passing by the cafeteria since it was almost lunchtime too.


    She planned on buying the usual set for lunch for her and for Amber. The girl still needed to take her medications in time, and she was the only one who knew that again. She realized that she''d been with Amber for so long that even the small little things about the girl were on her mind.


    She still can clearly remember the first day she met Amber. Her calm jade but sharp eyes. The way she followed the girl to her archery practice just to think of thanking her. It was really a pure coincidence that she got bullied in that old stockroom.


    She never thought that it was Amber''s favorite practice spot. However, after that horrible day, Amber never picked the bow and arrow again.


    "Hey, have you seen that 2nd year?"


    "The one who made a public apology by accusing the teacher? What was the teacher''s name again?"


    "It''s Mister Sung. I heard he was an excellent one, so tainting his name was impossible."


    "It was really impossible. I also heard that he was a strict homeroom teacher."


    "Is that why that student got intrigued by him and tried to bring his reputation down?"


    "Yeah, how shameless, but you know what''s more exciting?"


    "Come on, spill it.."


    "The expression on her face the moment she saw her desk! My sister was in her class and got bullied by her. It''s her karma.."


    Julie froze. She couldn''t explain all the feelings that stirred her up and the moment she blinked her eyes, she was already grabbing one of those 3rd years who said that. She was planning on ignoring them in the first place, but as soon as she heard those things they did, she couldn''t stop herself.


    Julie grabbed her forcefully and slammed her against the wall of the corner of the stairs going down to the lower floors. All of her nerves from her frail fingers pushed its limit to her hands, grasping the girl.


    "Are you the one who did that?!" she sternly exclaimed. She pushed her harder. "Did you carve those words on her desk?! Do you even know what the impact of that is on her?!!" her voice cracked and she gasped.


    She knew that she didn''t have the right to do it, and she wasn''t into violence either. Even though she''s stopping Amber from doing so. This dau, all of her frustrations climbed up to her. She soon realized that she was also stressed out about what was happening to her best friend.


    She didn''t even get the chance to explain her side to Amber and now she was hearing everything that adds another burden. Why wasn''t she there when that happened? They''re friends and classmates, right? She could have protected Amber. No, maybe she could have stopped them before they even tried anything.


    "So what if I did it? She deserves it anyway.." the girl in her grip didn''t even faze out. She let out a smirk and looked at Julie. "Are you defending her side because she was your friend? Well, you should have left her"


    She pushed Julie off and fixed her collar. "I did it because she bullied my sister! What the heck is wrong with you? Have you lost your mind? Why are you taking her side?!" she said it word by word by poking Julie on the forehead.


    By this, Julie couldn''t resist. The feeling of being bullied was something she knew, too. She was once a victim, and she has no right to talk about what''s proper and what''s not in this situation. She knew how hard it was to go to school while carrying the trauma every day.


    Every piece of you, you just wanted to disappear so badly. When someone''s asking you, you can''t bring yourself to tell the truth and just tell a lie.


    However, despite these feelings and fear, is it really okay to live for revenge all alone? Even though you got hurt and hurt the one who caused you those traumas. Isn''t it really enough? The emptiness in the end will soon devour you slowly until you feel lifeless.


    Her vision turned blurry and before she could realize, the group of third years already left her alone. Julie slid down on her knees and found herself crying. She didn''t know what to do anymore. She wanted to protect Amber, but she didn''t know how.


    Amber was also a cheerful child back then. She was also one of them who only wanted to go to school freely, without worries. She has since had a dream, too. She longed for friends, whom she trusted the most.


    Julie''s chest tightened, and she felt the lump in her throat. She hugged herself and felt all the emotions she''s been hiding from Amber. All this time, she''s trying to be strong in Amber''s eyes, but little did the girl know that the guilt was also eating her up inside.


    ''Where did I go wrong? If only I was there in the time where you got hurt, will I be able to help you too? Will I be able to bring your burdens on my shoulders too? All I wanted was to comfort you and make you feel that you are not alone?''


    Sobs escaped her lips. Completely drowning into that shattering emotions.


    ''Will it make you feel better if you are in the wrong? Then, can we just stay in the wrong way even though I will face the consequences for you? I will accept it.''


    As those inner thoughts shake her mind.. Julie cried more silently and alone on that staircase.

 Chapter 35 - Answers

    "Okay, class dismissed."


    Everyone stood up as soon as the teacher exited the classroom. The cleaners remained, and those who didn''t go their ways.


    "A-Athasia, are y-you going home now?" Callie sprang from her side with her smiling face, carrying three books in her arms.


    Athasia halted. The truth was, she was going to visit this Atelier just meters away from school. She simply passed a quick student resume online because it was looking for a helper. Of course, let''s not forget about her failed plan because of Max.


    Besides, Benson was the one who recommended it to her. He told the young miss that it was also a good opportunity to try different things. Well, littleyoonie always wanted to draw her characters, but she wasn''t that good when it comes to art


    "I have to go somewhere.." She tapped the girl on the shoulders. "Let''s hang out together tomorrow, okay?"


    Callie didn''t insist at all and told Athasia to be careful before parting away. Athasia exited the school front gate and checked her phone. She read that the Atelier also welcomed some students as helpers.


    Athasia reached the place in no time. She was crossing the street when she saw a woman, who almost stumbled with her falling folders and boxes in hand. She hurried to her and picked up the things.


    "Let me help you, Auntie." Athasia offered. "Where are you going? I''m going to accompany you.."


    The woman in her short hair with shades of gray smiled at the young miss. "Thank you so much. I''m going to that Atelier," she used her eyes to point to the said building. "Those were the new materials.."


    Athasia blinked, amused after knowing that they''re going to the same place. She clasped the stuff in her arms and grinned. "Auntie, I''m also going to that Atelier!"she suddenly felt relieved. It was a good start.


    The two of them reached the building, and the woman opened the door. The bells hanging above clang, giving them a welcoming atmosphere. Athasia stepped inside, following the woman, who introduced herself as Evelyn.


    The young miss put the boxes and folders on the round table near the window. She grabbed the opportunity to roam her eyes. The place was wide and comfortable. There were finished paintings hanging on the walls. Arranged paintbrushes in the cabinets with glass. Different sizes of canvas and stands. Paints were in the right corner. You can see every type with different brands.


    "I am sorry if it''s quite messy," Evelyn appeared with a glass of juice in her hands. She put it on the table and gestured her hands to the girl.


    Athasia nodded, and both of them sat at one table, facing each other. She gripped the glass of juice and said thanks. From the looks of it, she will do well in this part-time job. Even if some of her schoolmates saw her, it doesn''t matter since it was an Atelier for students.


    "Do you have any interest in the arts? Have you tried to paint before?" Evelyn asked. Her voice was soothing.


    Littleyoonie didn''t deny that she once tried to draw some of her novel characters in her world. She was planning on finding an artist to have collaborated with her to adapt her novels into colored ones.


    "I''m really not good with art, but I guess I can make some sketches." She honestly replied.


    A bright smile stretched Evelyn''s cheeks. She was a teacher here and knowing that the girl had experience in sketching was enough to flutter her. Though her smile vanished after remembering that Athasia was also a student. "Are you having a hard time at school? Can you do both helping here and studying?"


    Athasia nodded, "Don''t worry, Auntie! I can do both, and I want to learn new things too," she replied, taking a sip of her juice.


    Evelyn opened the folder and read Athasia''s profile. She stared at the young girl''s picture and smiled bitterly. "If only my daughter were here. You two will become friends." She sighed and closed the folder. However, the moment she gazed back at Athasia, the girl was also looking at her.


    "Oh¨CI''m sorry, I didn''t mean to say it that loud," Evelyn apologized.


    "I''m sure your daughter enjoys painting, too. If it''s okay with you, I can become her friend." Athasia was determined by her offer.


    Little did she know that this offer would make Evelyn''s eyes lonely. The woman lowered her head and clasped her fingers. "She¨Cpassed away..last year," she heavily said.


    Silence


    "Sorry.." Athasia mumbled. "I didn''t mean to.." she lowered her head, trying to make up for her words earlier.


    "Why are you apologizing? It''s fine, you don''t need to feel sorry." Evelyn stood up. "Just by knowing that a student was here to help me was enough for me. Thank you for applying." She leaned and brushed the young miss'' head. "You''re Athasia, right?"


    Athasia nodded, giving a sweet smile.


    "Can you help me arrange the things in the boxes you carried earlier? I have a class this Saturday and am only preparing for now. Let''s help each other, Athasia.."


    The woman went back to the sink with the empty glasses. She explained everything to the newbie and told the young miss that she can also participate in her art class even though she''s a helper.


    Of course, Athasia was happy to know that. She can use this in the future if ever she gets back on her time. Suddenly, that thought made her silent, that she paused from wiping the newly packed paintbrushes.


    She never thought that something magical like this would happen to her. Even now, she''s still in the phase of asking herself every morning. Things like this only happen in fictional worlds, so why is she here? It was still so hard to believe.


    The bells hanging above the door made her come back to her senses. Athasia glanced at the doorway and was surprised to see someone she''s familiar with.


    The one who entered had a gloomy expression on her face, Sullen eyes that seemed to just finish crying. Her steps were heavy, and she only looked the young miss in the eyes before passing by her.


    The newly arrived girl heads straight to the desk where Evelyn was arranging her files. The woman gasped lightly, stunned.


    "Julie? What happened to you?" Evelyn turned around from her desk and approached the girl, holding her hand.


    Athasia was left there. She was surprised too.


    Julie buried her head on the woman''s shoulders and hugged her. Her eyes were about to cry when she whispered something. "Auntie, please talk to her..."

 Chapter 36 - Guilt And Regrets

    Athasia was surprised to see Julie crying on Evelyn''s shoulders. Are these two related to each other? The woman mentioned a while ago that she had a daughter.


    "Athasia."


    The young miss went back to her thoughts and blinked. Evelyn asked her to get a glass of water for Julie, which she immediately did.


    When the three of them settled on the table, facing each other. The woman started to talk to Julie. She gave her a tissue for her tears and asked her to calm down and no need to rush. However, instead of calming down, the girl once again cried.


    "She''s still blaming herself for what happened,"


    Evelyn gasped, showing that she was taken aback. She held Julie''s hands, which were on the table. She pressed a warmth into it and looked at the girl in the eyes. "We both know that Sam wasn''t blaming her, right?" her tone calmed the girl a little. Her eyes became sad and her grip tightened.


    Julie sniffled again. "Auntie, please talk to her. I know it''s still not that long, but I can''t bear to see Amber like that anymore," her voice cracked.


    "Amber?" Athasia mumbled. She got surprised by hearing the familiar name.


    Julie shifted her gaze to the young miss. She went back to her senses that Athasia was also there. Julie wiped her eyes and lowered her head. "I know what Aber did was wrong, but believe me. She had reasons for being like this." she shrugged. "I know it''s unforgivable, but¡ª"


    Athasia cut her off and placed her palm on shoulder. "I understand," she said.


    Though she was really into sympathy for Amber, she didn''t know that being inside her novel would lead her to some decisions. She thought that reality was different from fiction. She thought that her emotions would not get into her in this world.


    Littleyoonie admitted that she was annoyed at Amber the moment she met the girl. She was already annoyed at her from bullying her female lead. But she can''t put all the blame on Amber since she was the one who made her like this.


    In her novel, she only put there that Amber was abandoned by her childhood best friend and because of that, she started to act this way. She didn''t even put as much details about Julie.


    Athasia was slowly realizing that maybe this is the real world. Or maybe when she entered her novel and decided to make a change, it affected not only her female lead, but also the other characters.


    ''But I only wanted to make a character development for the female lead, though!'' she exclaimed in her mind.


    "Where''s Amber right now?" Evelyn broke her deep thinking.


    Julie turned back to the woman. "She''s still at school." she replied. "I heard from one of my classmates that you will open the Atelier again and was going to stop by. That''s why I came here and gathered all the courage to make a request." she stood up and clasped the woman''s hand.


    "I know you''re still not ready to face her, but I''m begging you! I want both of you to have a peace of mind,"


    Evelyn saw how sincere Julie''s eyes were. She stood up and smiled. "Can you wait for us for a minute?"


    Julie''s eyes were elated with relief that she got teary again. She patiently waited for the two. She also asked Athasia to go with them, so the young miss followed, too.


    All of them didn''t even say a single word on their way back to school. Just walking in the hallways was enough to give Evelyn some memories she couldn''t erase. It was the time when her daughter was still with them.


    They reached the nurse''s office.


    Amber was still there, she was contemplating if she would call her driver or not. She didn''t even want to set foot because she was scared that some student might see her and gossip about her. She was sitting on the bed with her dazed face. Grasping the blanket with her shaking fingers.


    The quiet atmosphere and the view of the setting sun were giving some uncomfortable vibes to her.


    "A¨CAmber?"


    The moment Amber turned her head to the one who called her name, she froze. The familiar face, wearing a worried expression in her eyes, made her flinch.


    The woman didn''t hesitate to approach Amber and hugged her. Evelyn''s eyes teared up while brushing the girl''s back. Hearing the words from Julie was enough to notice what''s wrong. "Amber, my dear. How have you been?"


    Amber was speechless until the hug was finished. She wasn''t even prepared to face the woman. She didn''t know what to do after Sam''s funeral, which she didn''t even attend because of her guilt.


    She wanted to ask the woman so many questions. After that day, she lost contact with them and decided to not open or talk to them.


    Amber trembled, and she found this shattering pain ripping her heart open as if it would fall out of her ribcage.


    "I¡ªI don''t.." her voice cracked.


    "I don''t deserve this," she hugged her arms. "Please leave me¨Calone,"


    However, Evelyn didn''t budge. She admitted that she still couldn''t get over by mourning over her daughter, just like Amber. She also has a lot of regrets and guilt inside her.


    "You don''t need to run away." She said, lifting Amber''s hands so that the girl will look at her. "I know it''s not your fault,"


    Amber''s lips turned downward and soon her tears fell on her cheeks. "A-Auntie.." she stammered and by that, the words she wanted to say also let out.


    "Auntie, I''m sorry. I just couldn''t accept the truth. Why did she need to leave me like that? I wanted to talk to her and apologized. How will I be able to do it when she''s not coming back anymore? I don''t want to believe it."


    Sobs.


    "Sam is still here. I don''t want to accept her death because I''m a coward. I''m so selfish that I didn''t even consider her feelings that day. Auntie..I killed her. It was me¨Cwho killed her, right?"


    The reason she didn''t attend the funeral was because the event that happened that day was hunting her in her nightmares. She didn''t want to believe that it was her fault. She blamed and locked herself up in the room until Sam''s funeral was over.


    Amber didn''t even know how she managed to stand up again. Maybe it was because of the medications she''s been taking.


    Evelyn wiped the girl''s tears. "Amber, listen to me. It''s not your fault." She knew, because she watched this girl grow close to her daughter. The three of them had a lot of happy memories.


    "Sam will never like the way you are doing now. My daughter will never blame you. I know it, because she was my child." She smiled bitterly, nearly crying too. "She''s always telling me how lucky she is to have you, so please don''t suffer anymore.."


    Amber looked at the woman, who stood by her side like a mother, too. For all the times that her father couldn''t attend any ceremonies, Evelyn went for her. They were on her side, including Sam, and yet she was here, thinking that she was the only one hurting.


    "Auntie. I''m sorry!!"


    Her arms moved on their own and hugged the woman. She buried her head on Evelyn''s shoulders and apologized over and over again.


    Meanwhile, Athasia, who was standing at the door beside Julie, witnessed everything. Silence occupied her mind.


    "Sam, was Amber''s friend since childhood,"


    Julie''s words made the young miss turn to her. "Why are you telling me this?" Athasia asked.


    "I want to apologize for everything Amber has done, but I guess doing that wasn''t enough." A languid smile stretched across Julie''s face. "I know it''s hard to believe, but she was also a victim of her youth. I''m doing this not because I pity Amber¡­I''m doing this because I was once bullied before and she saved me."


    Julie''s eyes weren''t lying when Athasia looked her in the eyes. She was surprised because she didn''t write this in her novel. It wasn''t included and now it''s all making her think that everything is really changing.


    "I know you''re surprised," Julie continued. "Sam was once Amber''s light. The light that gave her dreams and achievements. Auntie was Sam''s mother. I asked her to talk to Amber because she thought that she''s the only one hurting and carrying all this burden."


    Athasia tilted her head and stared blankly at the school ceiling. "Sometimes, this guilt inside you will turn you into a monster,"


    "...but what happened to Sam?"