Strange story

A tense situation like this left me at a loss. If I told the truth, who knew what would happen? But if I lied, would they find out? Or would they just see me as an idiot to be bullied? I chose to stay silent.

They stared at me, waiting for an answer. The heavy atmosphere dragged on, each second cutting into my nerves like a blade. Finally, as if losing patience, the leader suddenly let me go and waved his hand dismissively. Without saying another word, I lowered my head in a slight nod and walked away as if nothing had happened. I glanced at Owl. He was looking at me with surprise.

Maybe… I just escaped a disaster. Time to get back to class.

The lessons passed one after another, subject after subject, making my head feel like it was about to explode. Overwhelmed, I laid my head on the desk, deciding to take a nap.

"Hey! Hey!"

"Huh?" (I mumbled, half-asleep.)

Someone was shaking me. Class must have ended already? This person is kind. But as my eyes adjusted to the light, I froze.

It was him.

The Muay Thai guy.

The one who had beaten me up in my first week at school.

I instantly went on alert, switching to defense mode. He stepped back a little, looking cautious himself. I scanned the room. The classroom was empty—only the two of us remained.

He pulled up a chair, took a deep breath, then spoke:

"Hey, about last time… I want to apologize."

He waved his hand awkwardly.

I was surprised. Admitting fault? He must have a brain! I crossed my arms, putting on an authoritative air:

"If you know you're wrong and you apologize, I'll forgive you!"

He chuckled and nodded.

"My name's Cam. And you're Giang, right? I'm really sorry, man."

I waved it off.

"No worries, it's in the past."

But then, his face turned serious.

"But… do you realize what you've done? Beating Kiên… you've stirred up a hornet's nest."

I swallowed hard.

"What do you mean?"

Cam clasped his hands together, lowering his voice:

"There are a lot of factions in this area. On the surface, everything seems peaceful, but underneath, it's total chaos. Kiên was one of the big names, and now, your reputation has spread beyond just this school. People will come looking for you."

I gulped.

"So… what should I do?"

Cam pointed straight at me.

"Team up with me. Let's form a gang. Sounds crazy, but if we don't, you could get jumped at any time. I don't want to be a target either, so I'm fine with just being the vice leader."

I folded my arms, deep in thought. Cam is strong, yet even he's worried? That means the situation is serious. If I get jumped… I could be beaten to a pulp. But if I team up with Cam, at least I'll have a reliable ally.

"But… what's the point of forming a gang? Isn't just protecting each other enough?" (I asked.)

Cam smirked.

"You're thinking too simply. Forming a group gives us several advantages: First, we protect each other. Second, we establish power in this area. Third, our reputation will make other gangs think twice before messing with us. Fourth, we can make money from various sources…"

I lifted my head, locking eyes with Cam.

We could do anything we wanted…

Hearing that, I made my decision.

I didn't want a world where the weak got trampled on. People like Owl, the bullied, would never have a place if survival was ruled by the law of the jungle. More than anything… I needed a shield. A strong enough shield to protect Mai. I couldn't let her get hurt one day.

Cam extended his hand, waiting.

I stared at that strong hand, the sunlight from the window highlighting his tanned skin, making it look like a golden offer. How could I refuse?

I reached out, gripping Cam's hand firmly. A partnership was formed.

But not a gang.

I smirked.

"This… will be a company! And I'll be the CHAIRMAN."

Cam burst out laughing and clapped my shoulder.

"Fine! Then I'll be the vice CHAIRMAN!"

I laughed along.

Perfect. From now on, my company would only grow stronger!