Chapter 22: Chapter Twenty-Two

Kyla's POV

She cackles and moves pushing me beyond my limits and testing my patience at this very moment. It's annoying really. I just want to know who dared Richard that's all.

"Joanna," I said between gritted teeth.

"The condition is that you get back into the game."

"WHAT!" I scream for everyone to hear. My voice echoed all through the hallway.

"That's my condition. You know you're not getting out anyway, so this way you get to be informed too."

"Why won't you just let me leave."

"So your life can be perfect again. I think not." She smirks and it clicked.

"So you're jealous. That's what this is all about."

"Call it what you want Kyla. I've stated my terms, do you agree or not." I thought hard about what to do. Then, I realized I can get out of the game anytime I want to. For now, I need to know the bastard who did it.

"Yes, I agree."

"Excellent."

"Now tell me who did it."

"Eager are we?"

"Joanna.” I grit my teeth. She cackles once more.

"The guys were talking and all. The idea was propounded by Ryder. You know him right."

"That's... Not possible." I shook my head in disbelief.

"That's your problem. I told you the truth, deal with it. Make sure you keep your end of the bargain; I have a podcast this evening." She squeals before walking away. My head has begun to hurt. Ryder said he had feelings for me just yesterday. Of course the keyword there was "had." But still, I wouldn't expect this from him. We are friends, so why would he toy with me like that?

And Tony, he tells me the truth, so how is it possible he didn't know Ryder made that bet. My head hurts badly now, I can't even think straight. Maybe that's one of the reasons he wants to "talk."

One thing is for sure, I will not waltz into battle like last time. I'll have to set down and think about my next course of action properly before I do something I'll regret eventually.

The bell is rung to signify the end of recess. I force my tired self to go to class while trying to formulate a plan.

**** 

Lunch break has begun, and I have something in mind to execute. It involves following up with my promise. Getting back in the game with Richard and Stein. Like every plan, it has its big cons. This one is for the greater good. Riley will hate me even more, but still, I just have to do it.

I shut my locker and moved towards the cafeteria. I got an invitation from Richard to seat with them, so it still made sense.

I walk confidently to their table and sat close to Richard. His eyes twinkle in surprise.

"About what I said earlier, forget it. All of it." I smile facing him. His fingers are in his hair as I look away and focus on Stein.

"So, back to the game."

"I guess so."

Richard responds beside me.

"Can we talk for a second Kyla?"

"Yeah, sure,” I oblige standing up.

"About the bet..."

"You're Richard Lockwood. You never refuse, I get it__"

"I did refuse,” he says cutting me short.

"Ryder dared me saying if I said yes, you would leave the game. He and Tony have been trying to get you to leave, so I said no."

"You said no, so I would stay in the game?"

"Well…."

"I'm confused."

"Don't be. The only thing you need to know is that I'm not going to try to have sex with you anytime soon."

"So why have you been so nice and slow. Most times, it feels like it's you I'm supposed to fall in love with, not Stein,” I blurted before I could stop myself.