Chapter 21 Talking

Chapter 21 Talking
The figure removed the mask, and it was just as I expected. I saw that the figure behind the mask was Chris.

"Where do you get the proof that the person who helped you just now was me? It could have been someone else," Chris said in a lazy tone.

"I just have a feeling. Also, no one knows my current state and location other than you and Mr Steward. So, it's most likely you guys who helped me."

"As you wish. And now don't think of acting stupidly again. If I'm even a little late you... ah forget it!"

Chris adjusted the sleeve of his jacket, I watched closely how he moved. His walk was a little shaky, like something hurt. After that fight, I'm sure there must be some part of Chris' body that took damage or injury.

There was guilt creeping into my chest, if I hadn't been so careless and thoughtless, there wouldn't have been an incident like that.

"Sorry."

Chris turned his head, his eyes rounded. I don't know what he was thinking, but I wouldn't blame him if he was angry at me.

pat pat

I looked up, gasped and was silent for a while as I felt the warmth of Chris's palm on top of my head.

"No apology needed. Just do my physics homework tonight, and all will be forgiven."

I turned the curve of my lips downwards, I who had gotten carried away and looked at him admiringly now turned around with a lazy gaze. I shouldn't have forgotten that Chris would never let go of his annoying side.

"Hah... well, take that as my apology. Let's hurry home, I actually want to make pudding too. Do you want to try it?"



"Ack! ssshh can you slow down?"

"I'm doing the best I can! Please hold on a little longer."

We were now at the hotel, treating the wounds on several parts of Chris' body. Luckily it was only minor cuts, bruises and a few scratches. Thanks to Chris's excellent martial arts skills, we both survived without any significant damage.

"Are there still many painful parts? I'll compress it again."

"No need, that's the only bruise. I want to rest."

I nodded slowly. I had actually insisted on taking Chris to the hospital to get treatment there, but Chris refused, he didn't want to attract public attention, that was his answer earlier.

"I thought you were someone who didn't like sweets," I said as I watched Chris eat the pudding.

"Hm? I like it. How did you deduce that?"

"Yeah... from your face. The one who always looks angry, stiff-faced, and bullying. I thought you were a spicy food lover and hated sweets."

"Old-fashioned thinking. Tongue instinct is not influenced by face shape. That's just a weird person's perception."

I chuckled softly and wore a sour expression. That's what I don't like about Chris, his outspoken side. what he thinks just comes out without filtering it first.

"Oh, and about that matter..."

Chris placed his pudding plate on the nightstand. Taking a deep breath, even though his gaze was straight ahead and not looking at me beside him, I could tell it was deep.

"I will be more co-operative. And I apologise for being unfocussed for the past while. I've had a lot on my mind."

I didn't cut in right away, the moment where Chris could talk more about something serious like this was quite rare. I had to really give him room to speak his mind.

"It's about... me and my mum. You know she's a perfectionist, right? She makes a lot of demands that make me tired. I've tried my best, but... my rivals on the grid aren't weaklings either, they have terrible competence."

I nodded, still listening, letting her story flow further.

"The people at school are also really annoying. They keep swarming around like ants. Just looking for what they need, attacking in swarms, and after taking what they need then just leaving."

"Don't mind them. They don't even have any rights in your life," I said calmly. "Think of them as ants, your analogy is apt."

The story continued. The details Chris provided were enough to open my eyes wider and farther to how heavy a psychological burden he carried.

He had a lot of complaints, especially about the strict rules that were a little too much for the average child.

The way of dressing, the direction of academic interests, political views, even the type of food are all regulated. I didn't know about this kind of thing. No wonder Chris likes to eat so much and so diverse when he's just with me, it turns out that his mum is putting excessive rules or restrictions on what Chris has to live with.

"I'm thankful that my mum didn't go as far as asking you to manage that part too. So... there are some other parties I can ask for help. Yeah, I originally thought you wouldn't side with me."

I shook my head lightly and smiled. "I organise what's good for you, but that doesn't mean I have to restrain you. I'll make allowances as long as it doesn't ruin what you have to do."

"Thank you. At least it's more helpful, especially after my mum and I fought about dad's problems---"

Chris paused, his expression suddenly changing. I who was listening and watching was naturally both confused and curious. What's going on? Why is he looking so shocked and scared? Is something wrong?

"Father? Whose father?"

"Oh! It's nothing, it's just my father's problem. I was... just asking about his habits. And my mum got angry, she's sensitive because she misses him."

Although that answer sounded like it was quite complete, I could catch her movements that were less calm and different from usual. The anxiety emanating from him was enough to make me think back to my curiosity about who Chris's late father was.

Even so, no one knew that I actually had something that could make me know more about who Chris's father really was. And this can't be revealed before I really know.

I was worried that it would anger Chris, because Chris was always sensitive when anyone other than him and his mum talked about his father.