Chapter 9: You Again?!

Who would've thought that being in class again would bring so much joy? A grin was plastered on Ivy's lips as she soaked in every bit of the lecture, paying no mind to the students around her who either slept or chatted amongst themselves. Ivy's desk was to the corner in the back row. She was positioned right under the large window, allowing her fresh air and a view of the school soccer field below. It glistened under the afternoon sun, shifting shades of green. Ivy let out a hum of delight. She then returned her focus to the teacher in front of the class, copying down the formulas written on the board. Sure she'd already taken this advanced function class, but it didn't hurt to refresh her memory in order to prepare for final exams. Her chest puffed as a smirk graced her lips. This time for sure, she'll get into the best university in the country.

However, her stomach seemed to have other plans as it suddenly erupted with a growl. Immediately did the students closest look her way with puzzled expressions, startled by what they heard. Ivy sunk into her chair with a groan. Note to self- no more skipping breakfast.

Before another growl could dare to escape, Ivy forced on a smile while raising her hand, asking the teacher for permission to be excused. Once it was given, Ivy slid the strap of her backpack onto her shoulder and raced out the classroom- just as another growl filled the air.

"Damnit," She scowled while rushing towards the nearest vending machine she could think of. It was in the school courtyard, where many of the hallways were outside with overhead structures acting as roofs, thick pillars holding them up. There were four halls in total that connected, forming a square. The centre was all grass that glistened under the sunlight, the perfect place to eat lunch. In the corner were two halls conjoined was a vending machine, situated there in all its glory. Ivy breathed a sigh of relief, taking out her wallet while stepping up to it. She eyed the iced coffee behind the glass with an eager grin, quickly pushing some coins in the slot. After pushing a few buttons, the drink was in her hands. Ivy hummed while screwing off the lid. However, she paused, hearing the muffled sounds of shouting. Ivy paused. She looked around the empty halls with furrowed brows. She should've just turned back and went to class, to brush it off as none of her business. And yet, her foot moved towards the noise, which happened to be coming from a storage closet. As Ivy got closer, the sounds inside grew louder. Ivy could make out three male voices- along with the sounds of a scuffle. Her legs felt heavier, but they kept moving towards the door. Luckily it was left slightly ajar, so Ivy peaked through the crack against her better judgement. Two large men had their backs faced towards her. "Look at this asshole, thought he could run away, huh?" One of them chuckled. He was noticeably heavier with a jagged bowl cut. "Tch- where the hell is our money?" The other hissed, crouched down with a huff. The room was dark, but if Ivy squinted, she could make out another male on the floor, shielding an arm up to cover his face.

"I told you, I'll have it by next week."

Ivy nearly choked on her own tongue. Recognition instantly struck her like a truck, her eyes widened in response. That male, who panted heavily and even wheezed, who spat out blood on the floor beside, who looked up at the other two with a steel hardened gaze. Ivy knew it all. Yet, she failed to find the reason why. Why of all people, was it Cilian?