Secrets

"Sorry about that earlier. Elma can be quite assertive but be rest assured, she's a nice person," Dexter apologised. "I hope you will continue to join us in the future. You have really good skills, I would like to learn more from you. Elma might be a genius but she's terrible in teaching. I'm sure she would like you to come again some time. She's obsessed about art after all."

"Haha that's okay. I will be coming often. I have more to learn from the both of you too," Leo gave a relaxed laugh.

"I have to go now. See you, Leo," Dexter waved and disappeared once he went past the corner of the school gates. Leo went after him but he disappeared into thin air. Weird...

The skies alternated between orange and indigo. Flocks of birds flew into the trees, chirping loudly. Even for them, it's time to go home.

The way back had a different atmosphere from the day. Walkway had a procession of oil lamps, but Leo was certain that they were powered by electricity. Puddles of yellow dotted the path before being replaced by more modern white lights closer to the train station. The last train was already at the station, waiting for it's last patron of the day.

The whole hour-long journey passed like a flash for Leo. The train was empty and the view from the passing scenery of the city made him reminisce on what happened earlier. When he snapped back to the present, he gave a snicker but his stomach replied with a growl instead.

'Right, it's time for dinner.'

"Thank you for using Macchia Railways. We hope that you have a safe trip and good night."

He felt slothful today. "I think I'll eat out today. Hmm what should I have today?" Leo continued to walk casually while surveying the shops. He finally decided to return to Mikhail's Cafe.

"Welcome customer! We have our special cakes made by famous pastierer Carmen on discount to… Leo?! Why are you here?"

"Dexter? Why are you… working here?" Leo was surprised, isn't the school full of rich people? Why is he working here?

"Oh is this your friend? You can take a short break, I can manage here," the manager took notice.

Both of them took a seat.

"You see, my family's business is having some issues. I want to learn the ropes and try to lessen their burdens. I'm sorry that I kept a secret from everyone. I don't want to be scorned by other students, some of them are class supremacists and would look down on others. Keep this a secret for me alright?" Dexter looked troubled.

"You have my word," promised Leo.

Dexter looks relieved. "I have to get back to work now. I recommend the omelette rice here. It's really good!"

'Everyone had their own fair share of troubles huh?'

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A figure was watching Leo bid farewell to Dexter in the shadows. His target wasn't Dexter as he watched him run once he got out of Arthur's view. That looks suspicious, better write it down for the report. However, he wasn't the objective and the figure refocused his attention to Leo. Leo did not realise the figure tailing him as he crept closer and closer.

"Aghh," the figure gave a muffled groan when a pair of powerful hands covered his mouth and dragged him into the shadows. When hidden from view, the hands then grabbed him by his collar and slammed him to a brick wall. The impact knocked the air out of his lungs, stunning him for a while.

Without giving the figure a chance to recover, the powerful arms held him up. His legs flailed as his feet left the ground. "Tell me, who sent you! How did you find us? What is your purpose here?!" demanded Arthur, a small stream of light partially revealed his face and his grip went tighter.

The figure holding the sturdy arms, tried to gasp for air while he spoke, "Please! I'm here to deliver a message from the boss." Arthur loosened his grip a little. "So that's the kid huh?" The figure got a little cocky, knowing Arthur can't hurt him. "The boss wants to meet you at his residence tomorrow. We will be waiting for you. Absence isn't an option."

"I believe that I've left that place for a really long time and I made a deal with the boss. Why are you still searching for me now?"

"You mean the old boss? He died from natural causes 3 years ago, the young master took over and he wishes to see you again. I do not know the details. I'm just here as ordered."

Arthur released the man. "Fine."

The man straightened his hoodie and disappeared into the shadows once again.

"See you there."

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Leo was surprised to see Arthur when he got home. Normally, Arthur would notify him a few days earlier that he would be returning.

"I will be out for some time from tomorrow. I don't know when I'll be back. The apartment will be empty, I thought it would be too big with just you alone. I have asked Daniel to arrange your new accommodations closer to the school. Did you have fun in school?" Arthur gave a smile but even Leo could see that it was forced. He had many questions about the abrupt decision but he did not question it.