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Chapter 22 - "Whisper's of the Third Door, Guardians Glimpse."

 Scene: After the Kiss

As Simon walked away under the dim glow of fairy lights, Prizey stood still — her heart thundering louder than the music playing in the distance.

She hadn't moved.

She hadn't spoken.

She could barely breathe.

Then, slowly… her eyes fluttered open. She blinked once, then twice, and whispered—

> "Wha… what just happened? Did he really… kiss me? On the lips? No way… NO way…"

Her hand flew to her mouth as if confirming the warmth that still lingered there.

> "What's wrong with me? Why didn't I stop him? Why didn't I say anything? Why did I— why did I like it?"

She backed up against the wall, her breath ragged, trying to calm the storm brewing inside her chest.

> "Am I losing my mind?"

"I'm not going crazy… right?"

"This can't be real…"

But before she could spiral further, her phone buzzed sharply in her pocket. The ringtone jolted her back into the moment. She stared at the screen — it was her class teacher.

She forced a breath, picked up the call, and spoke with a voice still trembling with leftover emotion.

> "H-Hello… Miss Katherine?"

Miss Katherine's cheery voice responded, oblivious to the drama on the other side:

> "Hey, Prizey, sweetheart! Just a quick update — please inform your team that a van will arrive at your place tomorrow at exactly 9 a.m. to pick you all up. Your destination is New York City, and the college is covering everything — hotel, food, travel, the whole lot. So don't forget to pack tonight, alright? All the best, my dear."

Prizey blinked again.

> New York? Tomorrow? Free hotel? What is happening with my life today!?

She managed a dazed "Thank you so much, Miss Katherine," before the call ended.

But even the excitement of a New York trip couldn't distract her from what had just happened.

Her cheeks turned red again, just remembering the feel of Simon's hand on hers. His whisper: "My Wolfie…" His eyes. That kiss.

No.

She wasn't ready to face him yet.

Without another thought, she pulled out her phone again and called the only person she could trust with her hurricane of feelings — Aliyah.

> "Hey! Prizey, where are you?" Aliyah's voice was full of background noise and laughter. "We're all here…"

> "Aliyah… listen," Prizey interrupted, breathless. "I—I'm at the back of the house. Please… just come here. Don't let anyone see you."

> "Wait, what happened? Are you okay?"

"Just… please, Aliyah. Come now."

Aliyah sensed the urgency in her best friend's voice and didn't question it further.

Within minutes, she appeared, sneaking around the side of the house. As soon as she saw her, Prizey threw her arms around her and hugged her tight, as if holding onto her sanity.

Aliyah hugged back instantly, alarmed.

> "Prizey?! What is it?! What's wrong? Are you okay?"

Prizey pulled back slowly, her eyes wide, breath still shaky… and confessed in a trembling whisper:

> "S-Si… Simon kissed me."

Aliyah stared at her best friend like she'd just confessed a crime.

> "Wait—WHAT?! Simon kissed you?! And you didn't even say anything?!"

Prizey was still wrapped around Aliyah, her breath trembling against her shoulder.

> "I… I don't know why I couldn't stop him," she whispered brokenly. "Every time he comes close, I just—my body won't move. I… I can't push him away, Aliyah…"

Aliyah's expression softened as she slowly pulled back to look at her.

> "Okay, okay... breathe, sweetheart. Look at me."

She gently cupped Prizey's face in both hands, brushing her thumbs over her cheeks with comforting ease. Her voice dropped into a soothing tone.

> "Prizey, listen to me… a kiss isn't the end of the world, okay? It's normal. It's literally common. Everyone kisses these days — people date, flirt, and get into random relationships all the time. This doesn't make you weak or wrong. So stop overthinking it, and just… let it go."

Prizey slowly lowered her eyes to the ground, trying to absorb Aliyah's words. Her breathing was still shallow, but steadier now.

Aliyah smiled gently.

> "And I told you before… Simon likes you. He really does. So maybe, just maybe… it's time to stop fighting the past, hmm? Restart your life, my jaan. You deserve to feel something real again."

Prizey nodded quietly.

> "Yeah… okay."

Aliyah beamed.

> "Good! Now come on, everyone's waiting for you back there—"

She reached to grab Prizey's hand, but Prizey pulled away quickly, stepping back.

> "No… you go. I-I can't face Simon right now."

Aliyah blinked, then burst into soft laughter.

> "Ohhh, my rebel bestie… where's all that Sigma-girl energy now, hmm? Where's your savage attitude and cold glare?"

She nudged her teasingly.

> "One kiss and you're falling apart. Amazing."

Prizey rolled her eyes with a breathy sigh.

> "Amazing? Really? This place is better than my sanity right now… and besides, I'm not coming back yet. I like being here. Alone."

> "And oh—before I forget, Miss Katherine called while I was panicking. She said the prize for winning the play is a free trip to New York City. College van will pick us up tomorrow at 9 a.m. from campus. So tell everyone to go home and pack. Got it?"

Aliyah raised her brows.

> "Damn! That's actually huge. Okay, I'll go tell them. But—"

Prizey didn't let her finish.

> "No buts. Just go. I'll come later. Or not."

Aliyah gave her a playful salute, grinning.

> "You got it, drama queen."

And with that, she turned and walked off, leaving Prizey standing under the open sky… the soft wind whispering through her hair, her heart still carrying the echo of a kiss she never saw coming.

Scene: Back Garden – Late Evening – Prizey Alone

The soft rustle of leaves danced with the wind as Prizey stood still in the garden, arms folded tightly across her chest. Her lips still tingled from the unexpected kiss, but her eyes... her eyes burned with blazing confusion and rising madness.

She began pacing back and forth, her breath shaky, muttering to herself.

> "I mean seriously… just who the hell is he?"

"Sometimes ultra-soft… sometimes ultra-wolf… dreamy one second, deadly the next. A sweet hero or a hidden vampire?"

"If I could just find out who this Xavier guy is…"

She stopped in her tracks, eyes narrowed like a detective putting pieces together.

> "Just once… just once, if I learn the truth…"

"Then I'll make this Simon the bastard get beaten up by Xavier himself!"

Her fists clenched as if she were holding the entire grudge of the universe. She spotted a stick on the ground, picked it up like a sword, and launched into mock karate mode — delivering air punches, wild kicks, and full-on fight sound effects.

> "Xavier! My warrior!" she declared with theatrical flair.

"Defend your girl! This two-faced charmer touched her lips — teach him a lesson!"

Suddenly, she paused mid-kick and went still. Her cheeks flushed with red, the memory of Simon's lips brushing against hers crashing back into her mind like a tidal wave.

> "I MEAN—Not that I liked it or anything!!" she yelled toward the stars, shaking her fists at the moon.

The moment hung in silence… until a soft glow shimmered across her skin. Her mysterious mark pulsed faintly.

She froze.

> "Okay… now that's creepy," she whispered, her breath catching.

Then slowly… she turned around.

Was someone… watching?

Scene: Back at the Jungle Party Spot – Packing Begins

Aliyah returned to the remaining group members who were still lounging around, laughing and chatting, completely unaware of the heated conversation that had just taken place nearby.

Clapping her hands to get their attention, she announced:

> "Alright guys! Just got a call from Miss Katherine. The college van will arrive at 9 AM sharp tomorrow. So go home, start packing—we're leaving for New York!"

A few excited cheers rose among the group. Bags were lifted, snacks were stuffed away, and sleepy goodbyes filled the air.

But Aliyah wasn't done yet.

Her eyes slid toward one particular boy who hadn't moved.

> "And Mister Simon," she said with mock sweetness, "a word. With you."

Simon didn't even flinch. In fact, he looked like he'd been expecting this. Slowly, with that signature smirk tugging at his lips, he strolled toward her, hands in his pockets, whistling a soft, cocky tune.

> "Tch tch, that tone again, Miss Aliyah?" he teased. "You sound like I'm about to be scolded. I'm hurt."

Aliyah crossed her arms, her expression a perfect blend of fake calm and real irritation.

> "So. You really have no shame, do you?"

Simon leaned back a bit, looking up at the stars as if trying to find the answer there.

> "Shame?" he said slowly. "Nope. Can't say I've ever made its acquaintance. And for what exactly, may I ask?"

Aliyah took a step closer, voice sharp.

> "You kissed Prizey."

> "Ah," Simon said, the word dragging out like he was savoring it. "That."

He grinned wickedly.

> "Yeah, I did. And in case it wasn't obvious… I like her. So, I don't see why it's such a big deal."

Aliyah narrowed her eyes—but then, unexpectedly, let out a laugh. Not cold. Not sarcastic. Just amused.

> "Okay, okay. I knew you liked her. But listen—really listen, Simon. Just don't hurt her. Not now, not ever. Not her feelings, not her trust. She's not like other girls."

For a second, something shifted in Simon's expression. His smile softened—not gone, but no longer taunting. He looked at Aliyah with an air of sincerity that was rare for him.

> "Don't worry… sister-in-law," he said with a wink.

Aliyah rolled her eyes so hard it could've been audible.

> "Oh, shut up."

> "I mean it," he said, with a dramatic hand on his chest. "I know exactly how to pamper Prizey. She won't have a reason to cry."

Aliyah raised a brow. "She better not. Because if she does…"

Simon held up both hands in surrender.

> "I'll face the wrath of the Best Friend Mafia. Got it."

And with that, the group slowly dispersed into the night—unaware that the real storm between love and secrets was just beginning.

Here's your full dreamy-emotional scene transformed into novel-style English with the same emotional depth, humor, and evolving romance between Prizey and Simon (Xavier):

---

Scene: Beneath the Stars – Prizey's Silent Grief

While everyone was busy wrapping up the party, Prizey stood still—her eyes locked on the moonlit sky above. Her heart was heavy, her thoughts somewhere far away.

In a whisper, broken and soft, she murmured to the stars:

> "Where did you go, Dad...?"

"I miss you so much... I love you more than anything. But you... you didn't love me back, did you? That's why you left me behind."

"Please... come back. Your Dazy is all alone now. So alone...

I miss you… I... I… mi—miss you, Dad..."

Her voice cracked.

And then came the flood. Prizey broke down, sobbing into her hands as the silence around her deepened. She didn't care if anyone saw her anymore.

But suddenly, she felt something.

A hand—soft but firm—gently rested on her shoulder.

She gasped, spinning around.

No one was there.

> "W-What…? That felt like... Xavier?"

"Is he... here?"

Her heart raced, but before she could make sense of it, Max appeared from behind her.

> "Prizey," he said gently, but with a teasing edge, "you do know that if Aunt Helen finds out you've been crying over Dad again, she'll lose her mind, right? And she'll probably murder me first. So please, enough of this drama. Back to the room. Now."

Prizey sniffled and nodded silently.

Max gave her a sad smile, wiping away her tears before pulling her into a brotherly hug. Wrapping an arm around her, he led her back toward the house.

But what neither of them knew was…

Someone was there.

Watching silently.

His ocean-blue eyes shimmered with a smile.

---

The Next Morning – At College

Everyone had arrived at the college gate, waiting beside the bus.

Everyone… except Simon.

> "Max! Call Simon again!" John groaned. "Where the hell is he?! We're already late!"

Max sighed, still holding his phone. "I am calling! He's just not picking up."

> "Ugh!" John snapped. "Great. Now we're all going to be humiliated because of him."

Prizey stood silently, arms folded, trying not to show how relieved she was.

> (In her mind)

Good. Stay lost, Simon. You absolute jerk…

But just then, the college van rolled up—and sitting coolly inside, his head against the window, was none other than Simon himself.

> "What the—?!" Max blurted.

"Unbelievable," John muttered.

Everyone looked at him, half-annoyed, half-shocked.

Prizey, startled, immediately pulled up her muffler and adjusted her face mask to hide. She ducked low, trying to vanish into the background.

As everyone began boarding the van, she slipped away—heading toward the parking lot in silence.

But someone noticed.

Simon.

He quietly stepped out of the van and followed her.

---

Parking Lot – The Encounter

Prizey stood near a parked car, back to Simon. Her muffler still hid her face. She knew he was behind her. She could feel it.

But she refused to look.

Simon smirked and walked closer.

> "Excuse me, ma'am," he said in a playful tone, "have you seen a girl pass by here? Looks moody, walks like a storm, talks like sarcasm wrapped in cuteness?"

Prizey replied in a changed voice, trying to act casual.

> "N-Nope. No girls here. Maybe check the other side. Yep. Definitely went that way."

Simon narrowed his eyes. "Hmm... really now?"

He stepped to her left to get a look at her face. Prizey quickly turned right.

He moved right. She dodged left.

Left. Right. Left. Right.

It became a clumsy little dance of dodging and smirking.

Until suddenly—

Simon caught her wrist and gently pulled her toward him. In one swift motion, he pinned her softly against the car and pulled down her muffler, uncovering her flushed, annoyed face.

> "So… my little drama queen," he whispered, his face just inches from hers, "why are you hiding from me?"

Prizey hesitated. Her voice trembled.

> "I just... I…"

But before she could finish, Simon leaned in and kissed her again.

This one—shorter. Just 13 seconds.

Still warm. Still confusing.

Prizey looked up at him with tears in her eyes—not angry, not furious… just fragile.

> "Why…?" she asked in a broken, innocent voice.

"Why do you keep doing this to me, Simon? Why do you keep messing with my heart? What did I ever do to you?"

A single tear escaped down her cheek.

Simon saw it—and something inside him shifted.

The teasing in his expression vanished.

> "Prize… I didn't know it hurt you this much. I'm... I'm sorry," he said softly.

"I didn't mean to… I never wanted to break you."

But Prizey stepped away, brushing his hand off gently.

She didn't say another word.

And just like that, she walked away—leaving Simon behind, speechless for once.

Scene: Inside the Van

Prizey angrily gets into the van and sits by the window, clearly avoiding eye contact. Her eyes are still teary, and her arms are folded. Simon follows her in quietly, his usual smirk replaced by concern. He sits beside her, a little hesitant this time.

Simon (softly): Prizey… please talk to me… I didn't mean to hurt you, I'm sorry my dear.

Prizey doesn't even glance at him. She stares outside the window, eyes fixed, lips pressed together.

Simon (whispers again, trying to joke): So now my drama queen turned into a silent film actress?

Still, no response.

Simon (sighs, murmurs to himself): Great… messed it up again.

Aliyah and Max, sitting a few rows behind, exchange looks. Aliyah narrows her eyes at the silence between the two.

Aliyah (whispering to Max): What's going on with these two now?

Max (whispering back): Looks like our Romeo made Juliet cry again.

Max chuckles slightly, but keeps watching Simon's face, which now clearly shows guilt.

Simon slowly takes out a mini pack of chocolate from his bag — the same one he saw Prizey secretly eating on the college trip once. He quietly places it near her hand.

Simon (whispers): I know this won't fix things... but maybe this can be a small apology from the dumb guy who can't stop falling for you again and again...

Prizey glances at the chocolate for a second, then looks away again. But her lips twitch slightly — she's fighting a smile, and Simon notices.

Simon (in a dramatic whisper): Did... did I just see a royal eyebrow twitch? Is this a sign of hope?

Prizey still doesn't reply, but her hand slowly slides and takes the chocolate. She doesn't eat it — just holds it tightly.

Simon smiles softly, sensing he's forgiven a little, but doesn't push further. He sits quietly beside her, respecting the space, as the van continues toward New York City.

[Scene: Inside the van — on the way to New York]

Simon rests his head back and starts gazing silently out the window, the city lights reflecting in his eyes.

Prizey turns her head slightly, secretly watching him. The glow from the passing street lamps softens his sharp features, making him look oddly peaceful.

Simon notices her gaze from the corner of his eye... but doesn't let her know. A tiny smirk tugs at the corner of his lips.

---

[Scene shift: New York City – Grand Elite Hotel]

The hotel is lavish — golden chandeliers, marble floors, and a majestic fountain in the center. The manager welcomes the group with a warm smile.

Hotel Manager:

"Welcome to Grand Elite. I hope your journey was smooth. Your rooms are ready — just this way."

---

Room Assignments:

Room 1: Max, Aliyah, and Prizey

Room 2: Louis and Rosy (the lovebirds)

Room 3: Sonia, John, and Lina

Simon looks around — he's the only one left without a room.

Sonia (flashing a flirty smile):

"Simon, you can totally stay in our room... we have extra space."

Simon (clearly uncomfortable):

"Uh... I'm good, thanks. I'll figure something out—"

Aliyah (interrupting):

"Oh come on, Simon. You can crash in our room. It's better than being stuck with Sonia, right?"

Simon grins and darts toward their room like lightning.

Max (chuckling):

"Well, that escalated quickly."

Everyone exchanges glances. It's obvious why Simon made that choice.

---

Inside Room 1

Prizey glares at Aliyah, arms crossed, fuming.

Prizey (whispering angrily):

"Aliyah! You did this on purpose, didn't you?! You knew—"

Aliyah (shrugging):

"Oh please, you know Simon can't stand Sonia. And we couldn't put him in Room 2 — lovebirds need privacy. He fits better here."

Prizey:

"You could've found any other room—"

Aliyah:

"If you're that mad, go sleep by the pool. It's New York — the stars are lovely."

Prizey:

"Wait... WHAT?!"

Just then, Simon walks in, grinning smugly.

Simon:

"Hey, what's up, guys? I'm pretty sure someone in this room missed me. Especially—"

He turns and looks straight at Prizey.

Prizey rolls her eyes and storms out of the room.

Aliyah:

"Sigh... Simon, seriously. You're impossible."

Max:

"She's right, you know."

Aliyah:

"Anyway, let's rest for now. We'll explore the city tonight."

---

[Scene: Later that night]

Aliyah messages everyone about a night ride. Meanwhile, Prizey — unable to sleep — explores the city alone and returns with a chocolate shake. She sees everyone asleep and quietly finishes her shake, then curls up beside Aliyah, finally finding some peace.

[Scene: Afternoon — Aliyah's Phone Rings]

Aliyah groans, half-asleep, and answers the unknown number.

Aliyah:

"Ugh... who's disturbing me in the noon?"

Mysterious Voice:

"Is this... Aliyah?"

Aliyah (sits up):

"Yeah, this is Aliyah. Who is this?"

Voice:

"I was asked to inform you... Master Shifu is in New York. He's inviting you all for dinner tonight."

Aliyah's eyes fly open. Her sleep disappears.

Aliyah (shouting):

"WHAT?! MASTER SHIFU??! He's here?? O-okay—OKAY—we'll be there!"

She hangs up and immediately shakes Prizey awake.

Aliyah:

"Wake up, my dear! Wake up! Master Shifu... he's here — in New York!!"

Prizey (eyes widening in shock):

"Mas—Master... Master Shifu?! He's really here?! I—I want to see him—NOW!"

Aliyah:

"I knew you would! Get ready fast. He's invited us all for dinner!"

Meanwhile, Simon hears everything from the other side of the room.

Simon (stunned, whispering to himself):

"Wait… Master Shifu is here? What a brilliant surprise… After thousands of years…"

He smirks deeply, eyes glowing faintly.

Simon:

"Finally... a reunion with the Guardian of the Third Door — the Great Master Shifu."

Cut to black.

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