Harry's eyes narrowed as he studied Kian's countenance, sensing the subtle shift in his mood. It was an unusual sight, for Kian was typically a stoic individual, rarely allowing his emotions to betray his stone-cold exterior. But now, Harry could detect a faint glimmer of warmth emanating from the usually unyielding Kian. It was as if a ray of sunlight had broken through the cracks in his armor, illuminating a small patch of warmth beneath.
"So, you want Leo to give you a private lesson?" Harry repeated, his voice low and cautious. He couldn't help but feel a sense of unease as he gazed at Kian's unwavering stare.
Kian's response was immediate, yet it was not a verbal one. His head nodded once, curtly, without a hint of emotion.
"You're acting strange," Harry repeated, his voice low and even. "I've never seen you like this before. You're normally so...private. It's like you have a force field around you that repels people. But now, you're inviting this boy into your space, asking him to study here...and wanting me to get you a coffee machine? What's going on?"
Kian's eyes narrowed, as if daring him to press him for more information. "You ask too many questions," he said, his voice low and even, but laced with a hint of annoyance.
His gaze flicked up to his, his dark eyes flashing with a hint of irritation. "It's not that complicated," he added, "Just bring me the coffee machine, like I asked you to."
For a moment, Harry simply stared at him, his expression unreadable. Then, his eyes seemed to flash with understanding, and he nodded curtly. "Fine," he said, his voice tight-lipped. "I'll bring it."
*
As Leo walked out of the cafeteria, he couldn't shake off the feeling that something was off. The atmosphere had changed, and the students around him seemed to be treating him with a newfound distance. They would follow him, but not dare to approach or interact with him. It was as if they were waiting for something to happen, but Leo had no idea what.
He thought back to yesterday's match and wondered if that was the reason for the sudden change. Had his defeat at the hands of Kian affected his reputation in some way? He couldn't understand why, but it seemed that his students were treating him like an outcast now.
What surprised Leo even more was Kian's behavior towards him. Despite their agreement to have a daily math lesson together, he had expected Kian to be distant or even hostile towards him. But instead, Kian's attitude towards Leo was surprisingly friendly and amicable. In fact, Kian seemed almost...kind.
As Leo pondered these thoughts, he couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. He was confused by the sudden change in his classmates' behavior, and he was also intrigued by Kian's unexpected warmth towards him. Little did he know, this was just the beginning of a series of events that would challenge everything he thought he knew about his relationships and himself.
As Leo emerged from the shower stall in the gym, the steam swirling around him like a misty veil, he couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over him. The warm water had rinsed away the sweat and dirt of his tennis match with David, leaving him feeling refreshed and invigorated. He shook his head, sending droplets flying in all directions, and gazed out the window of the school gym. The moon was already a silver crescent in the night sky, casting an ethereal glow over the deserted campus.
Leo felt a pang of satisfaction as he thought about his day. He had spent the morning reading a book that had transported him to a world beyond his own, and the afternoon playing tennis with his friend David, their rackets singing through the air as they battled it out on the court. It had been a day of quiet pleasures, with no distractions or drama to speak of. And now, as he slung his bag over his shoulder and prepared to leave, he felt grateful for this rare respite from the chaos of everyday life. But as he turned to make his way out of the gym, his thoughts were drawn back to his mother.
The sun had just begun to set, casting a warm orange glow over the school yard as the students slowly dispersed, chatting and laughing amongst themselves. Among them, Leo stood out, his worn-out school shirt discarded and replaced with a white T-shirt, its fabric clinging to his lean physique. His hair was still dripping wet from the post-shower humidity, and his eyes looked heavy with fatigue.
As he walked towards the school entrance, a sleek black car pulled up in front of him. The driver, a middle-aged man with a stern expression, stepped out and opened the back door with a firm hand. He motioned for Leo to get in, his voice low and commanding. The other students nearby halted their conversations, their eyes fixed on the unusual scene unfolding before them.
As Leo's gaze drifted towards the back seat of the car, he was met with an unexpected surprise. Kian was sitting in the passenger seat, his piercing eyes fixed intently on Leo. He hesitated for a moment before succumbing to Kian's unspoken command to join him.
Without a word, Leo slid into the back seat, his heart racing with a mix of excitement and trepidation. As he settled into the plush leather, Kian's eyes never left his face, their intensity making Leo feel like he was under a microscope. The air was thick with unspoken tension, and Leo's skin prickled with goosebumps as he wondered what lay ahead.
Just as he was about to turn around and face the front again, Leo caught sight of the curious faces gazing at them from outside. A crowd had gathered around the car, their faces twisted into a mixture of fascination and suspicion.
"What's the address?" Kian asked, breaking the silence that had fallen over the car.
"5th avenue," Leo replied, his voice hesitant.
As they drove through the winding streets, Kian couldn't help but ask, "Have you showered?"
Leo looked at him quizzically, clearly confused by the question. "Why do you ask?" he asked.
But Kian just smiled wryly. "Your hair is wet and smells like shampoo," he said.
Leo's expression changed, and for a moment, then, he composed himself and replied, "I just took a shower after playing tennis for two hours."
As Kian's piercing gaze settled on Leo, his stoic demeanor betrayed a hint of curiosity. "With whom?" he said, his tone low and even.
Leo's response was immediate, his words tumbling out in a rush. "It was a boy named David. He participates in tennis competitions. He's a very good player."
Kian's expression remained impassive, but his eyes narrowed slightly, as if scrutinizing every detail. The answer seemed to spark a flicker of annoyance within him.
The tension was palpable as Kian asked his next question, his voice still steady but with a hint of intensity. "Are you close to him?"
Leo's response was evasive, almost hesitant. "I can't really say...but playing tennis with him is fun."
As Leo sat in stunned silence, he began to piece together the unsettling realization that he had been answering Kian's questions without hesitation or thought, almost as if he was an obedient soldier reporting to his commanding officer.
They had already reached the address, and with a nod of gratitude, Leo turned back to Kian's car. "Thanks for the ride," he said, his voice low and smooth, as he grabbed his backpack and swung it over his shoulder.
Kian, still seated behind the car, didn't move a muscle, his gaze fixed intently on Leo's retreating form. His eyes lingered on the way the fading sunlight danced through the dark strands of hair that fell across Leo's forehead, illuminating the sharp contours of his face. For a moment, it was as if time itself had slowed to a crawl, and all that existed was the two of them, suspended in this fleeting instant.
As Leo vanished from view, Kian's gaze reluctantly shifted back to the road ahead. "Is the Royale Hospital on this street?" he asked the driver, his voice laced with a hint of distraction.
The driver's voice was a gentle nudge back to reality. "Yes," he replied, his tone neutral. "The Royale Hospital is just up ahead, on your left."
As Leo's eyes glazed over, his mind began to wander through the events of the past few days. He couldn't shake off the feeling that something was off, like a nagging itch he couldn't scratch. The doctor's words still echoed in his mind - his mother's condition was stable.
Leo's gaze drifted out the window, watching the trees sway gently in the breeze. His thoughts were a jumbled mess, like the tangled threads of a broken loom. He was tired, so tired, but his brain refused to shut down. It was as if it was trying to process the puzzle pieces of Kian's sudden interest in him.
Why was Kian being so nice to him? It didn't make sense. They had never been close before, and Leo had always thought of Kian as just another face in the crowd. But now... now Kian seemed different
But why? What did Kian want from him? Leo's mind spun with questions, but he couldn't seem to find any answers.
As the sun began to set outside, casting a warm orange glow over the room, Leo let out a deep sigh. He would have to wait until tomorrow to get some answers. For now, he could only lie here, lost in his thoughts, trying to unravel the tangled threads of his emotions.
As Kian sat on the plush sofa in the lavish penthouse, his eyes scanned the stream of photos on his phone, his gaze lingering on each image with a mix of emotions. The pictures were showcasing Leo's life in England - from triumphant smiles at school, to medals and trophies from various competitions, to carefree moments with friends. But as he delved deeper into the gallery, Kian's expression changed from curiosity to melancholy.
"Why did you look so happy? Why are you so positive and proud when your life is so miserable?" The question echoed in Kian's mind like a refrain, refusing to be silenced. It was as if he was trying to unravel the secrets behind those radiant smiles, those sparkling eyes that seemed to hold a thousand untold stories.
*
As Leo strolled into the school yard, the crisp morning air carried the sweet aroma of freshly baked croissants and the rich scent of freshly brewed coffee. He walked with a confident stride, his eyes scanning the familiar surroundings, his senses already attuned to the daily routine. Yet, amidst the predictable rhythm, a sudden jolt caught his attention. A voice, warm and melodious, called out to him from behind.
Leo turned to face the speaker, his gaze locking onto the boy from the private class he had met on his first day at the school. The boy's bright blue eyes sparkled with curiosity as he approached Leo with an easy smile.
"I am Harry, the friend of Kian," he introduced himself, his tone friendly and unassuming.
Leo nodded in acknowledgement, his expression neutral. "Leo," he replied, his deep voice smooth as silk.
Harry's eyes lit up with interest. "I've heard you're giving Kian a private lesson," he said, his voice tinged with curiosity.
Leo took a deliberate sip of his coffee, savoring the bold flavor before responding. "Yes, that's correct," he said, his tone even and noncommittal.
Harry's gaze seemed to bore into Leo's soul. "What do you think of Kian?" he asked, his tone expectant.
Leo's mind wandered to their brief encounter yesterday, their conversation about mathematics and logic. He shrugged. "His mathematics as well as logic are good. I think we'll finish the program in a short time."
Harry's eyes narrowed slightly, as if probing for more. "Not subject, about him as a person?" he asked again, his tone low and thoughtful.
Leo's gaze drifted away from Harry's intense scrutiny. He hesitated, unsure how to respond. They had just met yesterday; what could he possibly know about him? His words came out soft and hesitant. "I have no idea yet... we just met yesterday."
The silence that followed was palpable, as if Harry was waiting for more. But Leo had nothing to offer. He took another bite of his croissant, feeling a sense of unease creeping up his spine. Who was this boy, really? And what did he want from Leo?
As Kian gazed out the window, his eyes followed the familiar figures of Harry and Leo as they strode across the courtyard, their interaction and chatter carrying on the crisp autumn air. But his usual neutral expression had given way to a subtle crease of worry etched across his forehead, his brow furrowed in concern. A hint of irritation seemed to simmer beneath the surface, like a slow-burning fire waiting to be fanned into a flame. His eyes narrowed slightly, his gaze piercing as he watched them disappear into the building, leaving him to wonder what was brewing between them.
Leo entered Kian's room; his backpack slung over his shoulder. His eyes immediately landed on the coffee machine sitting on the cupboard, and he couldn't resist the urge to investigate. Without a word to Kian, he tossed his backpack onto the couch and began to examine the machine with great interest.
Kian, who had been sitting quietly in his corner of the room, couldn't help but notice Leo's single-minded focus on the coffee machine. He smiled wryly to himself, feeling a slight pang of hurt that he was being ignored. He had expected at least a brief greeting from him, but it seemed Leo was too engrossed in his new discovery.
As he continued to sit in silence, Leo suddenly became aware of Kian's presence and turned around, looking sheepish. He realized his mistake and apologized profusely, "Sorry, hello!" The words came out hastily as he turned back to the coffee machine, still clearly fascinated by its many features.
Kian watched him with a knowing glint in his eye, recognizing the telltale signs of Leo's passion for coffee. He couldn't help but chuckle at his enthusiasm, even if it meant he had to wait a little longer for his attention. With a gentle smile, he returned his gaze to his own book, content to let Leo indulge in his new discovery for a little while longer.
'Is that what you wanted?' asked Kian.
'It is way better, this brand is expensive,' Leo smiled happily. 'So, let's start with coffee first. Which one should I make for you,' Leo asked. Kian's brow furrowed in uncertainty. "I don't know much about coffees," he admitted, his voice tinged with a hint of self-consciousness. "You can prepare whatever you want," Kian said.
Kian watched him with growing fascination, his gaze drinking in the gentle rhythm of Leo's movements as he worked. There was something soothing about Leo's presence, something that made Kian feel like he could let his guard down and simply be.
As Leo handed Kian a steaming cup, their eyes met, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still. The world outside receded, leaving only the two of them, suspended in a moment of quiet intimacy.
As they sipped their coffee together, the silence between them grew more comfortable, more relaxed. The world outside may have been chaotic and unpredictable, but in this quiet room moment, all was right with the world.
It was a peaceful evening, one that seemed to be masking the tension that hung in the air between Leo and Kian.
"Is Harry your friend?" Leo asked, his words dripping with an unspoken meaning.
Kian's gaze flickered, his eyes narrowing slightly as he considered the question. His response was measured, each word chosen with care. "Our families are close," he began, his voice even and calm. "We grew up together since childhood."
Leo's eyes never left Kian's face, his gaze piercing and intense. "Then you're close," he repeated, his tone low and husky.
Kian's expression remained impassive, but a hint of irritation crept into his voice. "Why do you ask?" he asked.
Leo shrugged; his movements economical. "Nothing," he replied, closing the subject with a dismissive wave of his hand.
But Leo just sat there, sipping his coffee, his expression impassive. The silence stretched out between them like a thin wire, waiting to snap at any moment.
*
After his lesson with Leo was over, Kian sat in his room, lost in thought. The silence was broken by a knock at the door, and Harry entered, his eyes scanning the room before settling on Kian. "You called me," he said, taking a seat on the sofa opposite Kian.
Kian set his book aside, his eyes tapering as he began to speak. "You've known me since childhood, haven't you?" He paused, his gaze piercing. Harry nodded, his expression understanding. "You've witnessed almost every moment of my life, haven't you?" Kian's voice was laced with a hint of menace.
Harry's eyes flickered, sensing the tension in the air. "Yes," he confirmed. "What's going on?"
Kian's eyes seemed to bore into Harry's soul. "Then you probably know how I react when my work is interrupted or when something that belongs to me is touched." His voice dropped to a low growl.
Harry raised an eyebrow. "And is this related to Leo?" he asked, his tone cautious.
Kian's gaze turned icy cold. "You have no reason to be close to him, and I don't want you around him." His words were like a warning.
"Why not?" Harry asked, his curiosity piqued. Harry felt a pang of hurt at the stern rebuke, but he refused to back down. He sensed that there was more to Kian's words than just a simple warning.
Kian's eyes flashed with a warning, but Harry held his ground. "Exactly what are your thoughts, or rather feelings, about Leo?" he pressed.
"I don't want you near him," he said again, the words flat and devoid of emotion.
Harry felt a shiver run down his spine as he realized that Kian's reaction was not just about Leo – it was about something deeper, something that seemed to threaten the very foundations of their friendship. And yet, despite the warning signs flashing bright red in his mind, Harry couldn't help but feel drawn to Leo, like a moth to the flame.
"Tell me why," Harry whispered, his voice barely audible over the pounding of his heart.
Kian's eyes narrowed, and for an instant, Harry thought he saw a glimmer of fear flicker through them. But then it was gone, replaced by an icy calm.
"You don't need to know," Kian said, turning away. "Just remember what I said: stay away from Leo."