"Girlfriend, why do I sense a hint of hesitation from you?" Reese immediately felt Aila's dilemma.
Aila rubbed her temple, contemplating an appropriate answer for her doubtful friend.
"Well, he did save me earlier, I think it would be rude to do it now and besides I am intensely moved by his sacrifice… I don't know, but I think I'm starting to like him more."
Reese's face turned cold, but she just nodded and tapped Aila on the shoulders.
"Okay princess; just know that I am always here for you when you need someone to talk to."
Aila hugged Reese and thanked her as she went on her way to meet Yhuan outside the campus. Reese stayed behind and called some of the security staff.
"Hello, do you have an update regarding the victims today? Ahh... Really? So they won't put up charges because he is from a different school, okay got it thanks."
The culprits will not press charges against Yhuan or the school, the canteen also has been paid for the damages and the new café will be ready tomorrow. Reese's efficiency is top-notch; she is the best in countermeasures like this.
Aila saw Yhuan waiting for her outside the campus; the wound on his handsome face was already washed but was still untreated.
"Why are you too early today?"
Aila asked Yhuan, who quickly approached her.
"I'm just making sure no one bullies you again, love"
Aila's face flushed; she wanted to divert the topic; she grabbed Yhuan's arm, and they went to the park near the school. Aila took out something from her bag; it was a first aid kit.
"Sit still, I'm going to put antiseptic cream on your face." Aila was determined to treat the wounds on this stubborn man's face.
Aila was armed with her serious expression as she tilted Yhuan's chin to look at the wound closely. Her face was too close, Yhuan can feel her hot breath on his face; he took a quick peck on her cheek.
Aila was so stunned she slapped Yhuan's face; it was a hard slap Yhuan's ears went ringing.
"Oops, sorry, I shouldn't have done that!" Yhuan laughed while holding his face that was so red because of the slap.
"I shouldn't have helped you earlier. You could have handled them yourself, render them unconscious with your slap."
Aila pouted her lips and appeared sad in Yhuan's comments.
"I am just kidding. I'm sorry I won't surprise you with a kiss ever again. I promise." Yhuan's hand was raised in the air as a sign of promise.
She smiled at him and continued treating his wound. Yhuan thanked Aila for her concern and kindness to him. He was indeed expecting her to end their agreement today, but he wanted to make the most out of their last day as a couple.
He held Aila's hands and smiled sweetly at her. He handed her a small box.
Aila opened the gift from Yhuan; it was a gold butterfly brooch pin; it looked expensive.
"Wow, this is nice. What is this for? You didn't have to spend money on me, you know that."
Aila is well aware of Yhuan's financial capabilities. She wants Yhuan to understand that she can't be bought with gifts, but knowing how hard he worked to buy her that gift; he might get offended.
"It's nothing, I've worked hard to buy you this, and at least I was able to give you something to remember our short-lived romance."
Aila felt a sense of guilt; she saw how sad Yhuan is about this impending breakup.
"I know you don't wear any type of jewelry, that is the reason I chose this brooch, just in case you like it, you can just put it on your lanyard."
Yhuan's explanation struck a chord at Aila's high school memories.
"You actually noticed that I don't wear accessories? Wow, you're so attentive. Since when have you noticed?"
"Since high school, you've never worn accessories except for the anklet you only wore for a few months."
Yhuan said in detail. It sent shivers to Aila.
"That's actually too much… You're more like a stalker." They both laughed and rested a bit before heading for a walk to the bus stop.
While they were walking, Yhuan held Aila's hands; "Can I savor this chance for the last time?"
Aila agreed they walked together to the bus stop while holding hands. When they arrived at the bus stop, Aila was determined to end the deal with Yhuan.
She confronted Yhuan. His head was down, and his breathing is slow; anticipating the final blow.
"Yhuan, I think it's time for us to stop pretending. Your mom, she is feeling better now, right?"
Aila's tone was serious. The decision is final this time. Yhuan felt it, and his eyes started welling up with tears. This big ruggedly handsome guy is weeping in front of her like a little child.
"Did you have fun while we pretended to be in love?"
Yhuan's tears flowed freely as he waited for Aila's answer.
"Honestly, I didn't expect much from this... But yes, I was happy. It was fun getting to know you and your mom."
Yhuan nodded and kissed Aila's hands.
"Did you sincerely felt my love for you?"
"I did, I mean I still do."
"Okay, this will be my last question. Do you regret doing this with me?" Yhuan's shoulders were quivering.
"No, I am extremely glad I decided to do this with you."
Yhuan hugged Aila tight and kissed her forehead.
"Thank you; I will not forget the moments we shared."
Aila slightly pulled away from Yhuan. She held his face in both her hands.
"Why are you so sad? What I wanted to say is... let's stop pretending, stop this deal between us and make our relationship real."
Aila wiped his tears; he was still speechless, as if thinking what to say. He pulled Aila towards him again in a tight embrace.
"You're a naughty girl teasing me like that. I love you so much Aila."