Chapter 8

That night, I had another strange dream.

This time, there were no images, just voices.

A voice kept calling my name over and over again.

The sound of heavy breathing seemed to come from right next to me, warm and close.

It felt like something was pressing down on me, and no matter how hard I tried to push it away, I couldn't.

It only got heavier and tighter.

At 8 a.m., I woke up feeling completely drained.

Looking down, I froze.

Red marks on my calves, thighs, waist, and the inside of my arms... it was hard not to let my mind wander.

In a state of confusion, I skipped class and went to a store to buy a few tiny cameras to install in my room.

I went through every one I could suspect in my head.

Finally, I settled on Keith.

A few days later, I ran into him at the club.

But now, I didn't have mind-reading anymore!

The handover of club matters was done, and as I was about to quietly leave, Keith approached me.

"All set?" he asked with a slight smile.

I stopped and replied, "Yeah, all done."

"Summer break is coming up. Didn't you want to go to Srborea? My family gave me a few tickets. Want to go together?"

I was about to decline, but my eyes froze on the hickeys on his neck.

It was faint, but I was quick to notice.

He lifted his hand to touch it, and I quickly looked away, trying to pretend I hadn't seen it.

But he was candid. "It's from my girlfriend. Is it that obvious?"

I thought for a moment, "It's not too bad. From far away, you can't really see it, but up close, it's a bit obvious."

He chuckled lightly, "So, you wanna go?"

I shook my head. "You and your girlfriend should go. I'm not really interested in tagging along."

He nodded gently. "Alright. So, do you have any plans for the summer?"

I answered, "Going back home."

"I really want to lock you up in my bedroom forever. Summer vacation is a perfect opportunity."