Chapter 133: Focused on One Name

The car door opened, revealing the figure of the boy I had been searching for all this time.

I do not mind if you think of me as an unstable girl who lacks firmness. A girl who is indecisive and unable to keep her own words. I admit that I do deserve such judgment.

It was never my wish to be trapped in a situation that forced me to choose between two equally meaningful options. However, I also could not be selfish by continuing the original plan that now felt contrary to my heart.

Do you know that a feeling will always be focused on one name it desires, even if it goes against common sense?

That is what I have been doing all this time. Even though I try to avoid Kenn whenever he is around, deep down, I always feel happy seeing his presence. My eyes constantly search for him, even if it is only a fleeting glimpse. And since this morning, I have not seen his face even once, nor have I caught the scent of his distinctive perfume.

My lips instantly curved into a smile when I saw Kenn step out of the car. The hoodie jacket over his plain black T-shirt, paired with transparent sunglasses and his seemingly messy hairstyle, made his appearance look perfect under the morning sunlight. The zipper of his jacket, left open, revealed his firm jawline. That appearance immediately triggered hysterical screams from the girls around, who were captivated by the charm of this one of God’s creations.

However, there was something different. Seeing Kenn’s steps grow wider and firmer and his body language appear tense, I felt that something was unusual.

Had something happened? Was this related to the reason he came late in casual clothes? Would he leave, or would something else happen?

No. I must not think badly. Kenn would not go anywhere. That was impossible.

Various bad assumptions wandered through my mind, making me lower my head while tightly closing my eyes. I tried hard to drive away the negative thoughts that had nested in my head.

“Can you come with me?”

“Huh?” I instantly looked up when I heard a voice I knew so well.

“Why are you daydreaming instead?” he asked in a low, urgent voice.

He looked at me right in front of my face. Time seemed to freeze. Looking into his eyes always managed to disrupt my heartbeat.

Was that really Kenn? Was he truly standing in front of me?

“I don’t have much time.”

I flinched. What was wrong with his attitude?

My forehead furrowed, truly not understanding the direction of his words.

“There is something important I have to tell you in private,” he added again. “Listen, I can’t explain it here. Come with me now.”

Before I could answer, Kenn suddenly grabbed my left hand. However, at the same time, someone else held my right arm.

When I turned my head, my eyes widened in shock. By anything, it felt as if my heart would stop right then and there. I saw Kevan gripping my arm with a cold stare. Even though I knew his gaze was directed at Kenn, I felt extremely frightened seeing the drastic change in his attitude.

“She can’t go,” Kevan replied emphatically. “Let her go, Kenn. You have no right to take her away just like that without my permission,” Kevan continued in a challenging tone.

I winced when I realized Kevan’s grip on my hand was growing stronger.

“She’s not going anywhere without me,” he said firmly.

“I don’t want to cause a scene. Let go of her hand, unless you really enjoy hurting her.” Kenn stared sharply at Kevan’s grip that had turned pale. “Look, you’re hurting her, Kevan. Don’t let your ego injure her.”

Immediately, Kevan released his hand. His face was now filled with guilt.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to.” He looked at me pleadingly. “I just don’t want you to go with him.”

I smiled, trying to understand Kevan’s feelings. “It’s okay. I understand.”

I took a short breath before turning to look at Kenn. “Kenn, I don’t think I can.”

“Reno is critical,” Kenn cut in quickly.

“What?” My eyes widened. My heart felt as if it had stopped beating. I shook my head while clenching my fists. “No. That’s impossible!”

Kenn’s face hardened, his gaze turning sorrowful. “Reno was found unconscious in front of the orphanage bathroom. When we rushed him to the hospital, he was immediately taken to the emergency room. The doctor said his condition had deteriorated drastically in the last hour. I just don’t want you to regret it if something bad happens to Reno.”

I covered my mouth tightly. My eyes felt hot, and tears began to fall down my cheeks.

Oh God, I pray for Reno’s safety.

Without waiting any longer, my hand reflexively grabbed Kenn’s hand so we could leave immediately. However, once again, Kevan’s voice stopped my steps.

“Let me take you. I beg you.”

Kevan’s pleading gaze made me unable to refuse. Without thinking twice, I accepted his offer. I did not want any arguments that would only waste time in going to see Reno.

Kevan smiled. “Wait a moment, I’ll get the car.”

“Kevan,” called a boy, seemingly a fellow student council member.

Kevan turned toward the source of the voice.

“You were appointed by Mr. Ahmad to be a judge for the basketball competition. The event will start in ten minutes. You have to go to the gym immediately. I also have to take my post at the chess competition,” he said, then turned away. “Don’t make Mr. Ahmad wait too long, Kevan. You know how important this event is for the school?!” his friend shouted after taking a few steps away.

I saw Kevan let out a long breath, then nod stiffly. “Alright. I’ll go there.”

I knew he felt forced by his own answer. It was evident when he immediately ran his hand through his hair in frustration.

“Can you wait a moment? Just fifteen minutes, please. I’ll find a replacement and come back to you right away,” Kevan pleaded with a pitiful expression.

“I’m sorry, I can’t wait. I have to go now. Reno’s safety is far more important than anything right now. Please forgive me, Kevan.”

In the end, I left with Kenn, without looking back.

We ran in panic along the hospital corridor, crowded with people passing back and forth. I no longer paid attention to the sharp antiseptic smell that stung my senses. With every step, I kept whispering prayers for Reno’s safety while following behind Kenn.

My steps slowed when Kenn approached Mrs. Eka and Mrs. Siti. The two women were sitting on the waiting chairs with faces filled with overwhelming anxiety.

“How is Reno, Ma’am?” Kenn asked softly.

“Reno is still inside. Until now, the operation process has not been finished. I am truly scared, Kenn,” Mrs. Eka replied while wiping away her tears that kept falling repeatedly.

“Calm down, Mrs. Eka. Reno is a strong child. He will not leave us.”

I could still catch their conversation clearly. My heart pounded as my steps drew closer.

.........................................