The time was ticking and the charity event date was coming nearer. The thought of humiliating and disgracing Carter was all he could think about. He needed to do this if he was going to get the money promised by the system. The orb made another synchronizing sound and another message appeared right before Ethan. " System message ; You have another 48 hours of time to complete your mission. Failure to do that will result in your contract terminated by the system."
Ethan's eye went pale.This was the only way he could survive on the school campus and also get back at Carter and Sophia. He began to think fast. Ethan's mind went towards Elena who had humiliated Carter publicly. He was about to look for her when she saw him walking towards her. Ethan summoned the courage to walk up to her.
" Hello." He said in a friendly tone, making her stop abruptly. " Do I know you?" Elena stared back at Ethan who was finding it awkward. " I need your help,Elena." Ethan said truthfully looking at her face.
" My help? And what might that be?" She said and folded her arms. Ever since Elena had gotten to school,she had made more friends than any school students. Most of them wanted to be her friend because she was pretty and she doesn't take nonsense. Some saw her as a role model while some of the guys in school wanted her to be their girlfriend.
" What is he doing?" A student said to his fellow mate seeing that Ethan was talking to Elena. " Are you asking me that? Many people want to be friends with Elena. Maybe Ethan is just trying to do the same." The other replied
" Can you help me humiliate, Carter?" Ethan lips parted with the words. " And why would I do that? I don't think I have any quarrel with him aside from when he grabbed my ass. Besides, what is in this for me? "
Ethan's face slowly went pale. He did not have enough money to offer Elena. " I am willing to pay you some money if you could help me and also if you could.." he took a pause and stared at her face.
" If I could, what?" Elena raised her eyelashes that looked like a Korean hand fan to stare at her face.
" Can you be my girlfriend?" Ethan asked, trying to bend his head down. He knew most of the male students must have given it a try but he was ready to shoot his shot too.
Dating Elena won't only make Sophia jealous but also help him earn a little bit of respect within the school premises. Elena burst into a wide laughter. " I told you, he must have said something stupid to her." A voice said walking past Ethan and Elena.
Without saying a word, Elena walked away.
Ethan good still in one place, he looked at Elena as she walked away without saying a word. He knew he had to go on with the plan if he was going to defeat Carter but he also needed Elena who was not ready to help her
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[ THE AUCTION DAY ]
The school's grand hall was transformed into a dazzling spectacle, its elegance and sophistication radiating like a beacon. The charity auction ceremony had brought out the best in the school's decor, with lavish arrangements and meticulous attention to detail.
Soft golden lights cascaded down from the chandeliers, casting a warm glow over the crowded hall. The walls were adorned with intricate silver and gold drapes, while the floor was covered with a plush, crimson-red carpet.
The auction stage, situated at the far end of the hall, was a masterpiece of design. A stunning backdrop of gleaming black and silver panels provided an elegant setting for the evening's festivities. The school's logo, emblazoned on a giant screen, added a touch of pride and tradition.
Tables laden with exquisite hors d'oeuvres and refreshing cocktails lined the hall, tempting the guests with an array of culinary delights. The air was filled with the sweet scent of flowers and the gentle hum of conversation.
The student body, dressed in their finest attire, mingled with esteemed guests from the community, their faces aglow with excitement. Teachers and faculty members, resplendent in their formal wear, oversaw the proceedings with poise and efficiency.
At the entrance, a stunning ice sculpture of the school's mascot gleamed, its frosty surface reflecting the vibrant colors of the hall. The sound of soft music wafted through the air, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening.
Carter, resplendent in a tailored tuxedo, stood confidently near the auction stage, his eyes scanning the crowd with an air of superiority. Sophia, radiant in a flowing red gown, stood by his side, her beauty and poise commanding attention.
Ethan, dressed in a simple yet elegant suit, watched from afar, his eyes burning with determination. Elena, stunning in a sleek black dress, moved through the crowd, her presence drawing admiring glances.
The auctioneer, a charismatic emcee, took the stage, his voice booming through the hall. "Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the annual charity auction! Tonight, we gather to support a noble cause and bid on exclusive items. Let the evening begin!"
The crowd erupted into applause as the auction commenced, the atmosphere electric with anticipation.
Another message appeared right before Ethan sent a bolt of electricity down his spine. "System message ; you are having just 9 more hours to carry out the mission or the orb is hung to lose its powers and the system would automatically look for a new host."
Ethan felt like his whole world was crashing down. He remembered how he came across the orb. The life of a beggar he was living before then. He needed to complete his mission but how?
Ethan's name was immediately called by Carter.
" We have a person who is ready to give to this charity event today. I still can't believe he has anything tangible to offer but all the same we are going to see what is going to happen today. Ladies and gentlemen, please help me invite Ethan to the stage to tell us how much he would donate towards the school's growth and how much he is willing to help the less privileged which I believe him to be a part of."
The student bursted into laughter as Ethan's face boiled with anger. He felt his leg heavy and his lips twitched in anger. He was about to walk towards the podium when he felt a gentle tap on his shoulder. " Shall we? The voice said gently
Ethan looked back and froze.