22

After disappearing for a while, Jerah returns at the top of the stairs, looking like his usual self. "Do you want something to drink?" he asks in the same monotone voice as ever. Does he not know how to change his tone? Can he not go any higher or lower? What about putting any emotion in it?

"No, thanks. Let's get this over with," I say, looking up at him. He doesn't react. We stand there in silence for a second. Is he not coming downstairs?

"Aren't you coming then?" he speaks my thoughts, frowning. "You'll make the test in Aki's room, he'll watch over it. I have to get some things at the store."

Huh? Isn't that a bit... awkward? I mean, Aki's nice, but I barely know him... Why doesn't he go get groceries? Well, I guess he makes me more comfortable then Jerah does.

I walk up the stairs. I wonder what Jerah's room looks like? His house is pretty small, so I think his room is, too. And they have to fit in a lot of smaller children, along with his parents. Where are his parents, anyways?

Just as I finish climbing the stairs, my tutor closes a door behind him. Is that his room? Do I not get to see it? Before I have a chance to get disappointed, a stack of papers get shoved into my hands. "Aki's room is over there. I hope you don't mind the kids being in there, too." Before I can answer, the tall blond is downstairs, ready to leave.

What's up with him? That's just plain rude. He sure knows how to push my buttons. Unbelievable. Can't he at least look at me? Say bye? Wish me luck?

Annoyed, I knock on Aki's door. Slowly, softly, he opens the door. "Shh, the kids are about to go to sleep," he whispers. "What's up?"

"Jerah told me I had to make the test in your room. He's out shopping, I believe." I try to hide my irritation, but he seems to look right through me.

"Oh, he wants me to watch over you? He trusts me more than you?" he snickers. "He's gonna regret that."

Confused, I walk in Aki's room. It's small, mostly bed. His bed is bigger than mine, surprisingly. On it are his siblings, some sleeping soundly, some looking drowsy, about to fall asleep.

I sit at the desk, while he goes sit on his bed. I take a deep breath, then take a look at my paper. It's alright. I can do this. I pick up my pen.

I'll show this asshole what I'm made of.