⚠︎ This chapter has mentions of blood consumption, grief and death.
♬ Bullet - Jared Benjamin ♬
''Ask away, you only live once after all, if you keep it all within your thoughts you'll never know the truth.''
After all that happened, the rest of Eryx's day was a blur, he isn't exactly sure how he ended up in bed with a pile of budget documents, nor how he showered and even got through the rest of his classes that day. A sigh leaves his lips as his wet hair drips on his sheets, he's still in a daze, getting caught by Luc, suddenly dating Sevan and even the amount of information he was fed to be able to work for the Student Council…
It all feels unreal, he thinks, slowly getting up from his bed, drying his hair with a towel as he sits on the desk on his side of the room, the pile of documents feels like something he'd only see in movies and series about office workers. I think I am an adult now after all. With one hand he continues to dry his hair and the other he uses to go through the documents, some were well-organized and even had small notes on the margin, probably made by Sevan, while others were a mess, probably because the President was unable to go through them. There are a lot of clubs and activities the Student Council supervises, he thinks, reading every page carefully. ''There's a deficit in some parts…'' He mumbles, thinking about how he can organize those in a proper Accounting Book, as it is now it'll be a matter of time before they lose control of how much each club is receiving. Some clubs receive more than others, what are the criterias?
Entertained by the documents, Eryx doesn't notice when it becomes late, just when the door of the dorm opens that he notices he's been there for two hours already. He gazes at his phone before looking at Sevan.
''Are you still up?'' Sevan asks, his voice is calming and his dark pink eyes stare at Eryx. ''Couldn't sleep again?''
''No, I was just focused on the documents'', Eryx answers, diverting his gaze, unable to look Sevan in the eyes, or all he'll be able to think about is the kisses they shared earlier. ''I have a few questions, if you could…''
Sevan tilts his head, analyzing Eryx's red face. He looks embarrassed per usual, the man approaches him, leaning next to him, to check the documents, seeing how the boy had spent a few hours even writing notes and putting them in all the pages he had questions about. With the proximity of the man, Eryx's heart starts beating fast and his face becomes even redder.
''Sure, ask away'', Sevan says, his voice low and his breath tickles on Eryx's ear.
''Ah'', Eryx says, cleaning his throat, for a moment his mind went blank. ''Y-Yes'', he stumbles on his words, all he can hear is his beating heart. ''I want to know what are the criteria for deciding which club gets more or less budget, as it seems some have big budgets despite having less members, and others that have a lot of members don't seem to have enough budget…'' He continues to ramble, Sevan's gaze feels heavy, but he continues to explain his doubts, and at the very end, that's when the other finally speaks again.
''You're surprisingly dedicated'', Sevan says, making Eryx blush even more, the color now taking over his neck and even his hands becoming red. ''As the President I oversaw a lot of the budgeting, but even I ain't perfect'', he continues, his tone is softer and he takes the papers Eryx was pointing at, analyzing them carefully. ''The Link Academy has more than 100 clubs, even if I wished to, I couldn't see the budget reports for all of them, as I had other matters to attend as well…'' He stops, reading Eryx's notes. ''It's amazing how easily you noticed these things'', he praises him, but his gaze doesn't leave the pages. ''The criteria, to be honest, is mainly made up'', he sighs, placing the papers on Eryx's desk again. ''Last year, we tried making a distribution that would reward those that had more activities, won awards, things like that, but it clearly was a flawed system''.
Eryx nods. ''I think the last Treasurer you had was benefiting some clubs over others, some reports don't make sense, if you don't oversee and sign every single one, it makes sense he was able to get away with it''.
''Too bad he already graduated…'', Sevan mumbles, ''I should check all documents this year, to prevent these things, I was too naive last year''.
''It's not your fault, you know'', Eryx says, finally looking Sevan in the eyes. ''Not only you have to oversee so many duties and people, but you also have to study for your own sake.'' he continues, a soft smile on his lips, he feels embarrassed and the lack of expression from the man makes him wonder if he thinks he's being nosy or annoying. ''You already work a lot, you leave early and come back late, if you did more, you'd die out of exhaustion''.
''I won't die from it, don't worry'', Sevan says, his tone makes clear he doesn't agree with Eryx. ''Oh right, you have to sign the work contract, everyone in the Student Council signs one, in exchange for your work you'll receive points for your classes and small perks for leaving campus during classes in case needed'', he opens his bag, pulling a ten page contract and giving it to Eryx to sign. ''Take your time, after all signing a contract is a big responsibility''.
Sevan moves to the bathroom, leaving Eryx alone, he can hear the sound of the shower. Fuck I need to learn to control my heart, he thinks, touching his face with his cold hands to attempt to lower his own temperature. He tries to focus on reading the contract, but his head is a mess. Another sigh leaves his lips, and so he decides to turn to what he was mostly avoiding all day: the system.
Would you like to check your rewards?
Y/N
He presses Y, already thinking about his likeability with Sevan increasing.
+5 likeability with Sevan Helge
Total current likeability: 30%
Total Heroine's current likeability with Sevan Helge: 2%
Woah, it increased 3% more than the reward, is it because we're dating? Or the kiss? He wonders. But the heroine also made some progress…
Is it supposed to be this fast? Somehow everything feels like a dream where he'll wake up and all his fears will be true. Eryx shakes his head, he needs to stop being pessimistic about this situation.
1 Random Genus Ticket
Genus Tickets can be used to temporarily use the Genus of those whom you have more than 90% likeability with.
90%? That's quite a lot, I don't see how this would be of any use to me… Eryx thinks, but it's interrupted by another notification from the system.
Available Genus' for use:
Luc Algeo (93%), Mael Algeo (98%), Levi Algeo (100%), Milo Algeo (91%), Ezekiel Algeo (95%), Nicolas Algeo (100%), Zacharie Algeo (98%), Azrael Sofer (92%), Elara Algeo (90%), Freya Algeo (100%).
Ha. Eryx can't help but smile, he feels lucky for having such an overprotective and caring family, now such a ticket doesn't seem so useless, however it is random, so perhaps he still needs to be cautious. Sure all of his brothers have excellent Genuses. However, some are more useful than others to him.
Would you like to claim your Genus Ticket?
Y/N
Again he doesn't even need to think, pressing Y. He watches as a small animation of an orange cat spinning a wheel with all the names from before, his heart beating fast as he anticipates the answer.
Congratulations!
You have obtained:
1 Azrael Sofer's Genus Ticket
What was Azrael's genus again? Eryx wonders, it takes him a few moments, but he finally remembers. Oh right, cryokinesis, he remembers seeing his brother-in-law making ice for his drinks when he was a child. It isn't the best of the bunch, but it is quite useful if used right. He taps to check his other reward before Sevan finishes his shower.
1 Random Reward Ticket
Reward Tickets can be used to claim special rewards for system users.
Well, that's vague, he thinks, just moving on, the animation is the same as the cat spinning the wheel, but this time he can't read the name of the rewards before one is selected, this seems like a recipe for a rigged system, he thinks.
Congratulations!
You have obtained:
Temporary Freeze x 1 Ticket
Temporary Freeze
Freeze time for 30 seconds per use.
That's fucking useful, he thinks, surprised, but again, in what way will he use such a thing? He can't think much longer since Sevan finally leaves the bathroom, his hair is wet and he's wearing white summer pajamas made of silk.
''You should sleep Eryx'', Sevan says, his dark pink eyes resting on Eryx, they show no emotion, but he can somehow tell that he's tired.
''You too'', Eryx says, going back to his bed.
''Do you want me to put you to sleep again?'' Sevan asks, placing his wet towel on the chair of his desk, walking towards Eryx's bed and sitting on the edge.
Eryx ponders, he did sleep well, but that image of Sevan getting so close to him isn't good for his heart.
''Sure'', he answers in the end.
Sevan leans over Eryx again, differently from the night before, he now is even more conscious of the other, since they're dating, the touch of his forehead on his is cold, and his hair is still slightly wet, but it feels good on Eryx's burning skin. His sharp dark pink eyes stare straight into Eryx's bright orange ones. While one has their breathing calm and under control, the other's is quick and loud.
''Do you want me to kiss you goodnight?'' Sevan asks, his eyes lingering on Eryx's lips.
He can't help but nod, how could he deny him?
The kiss is different from before, their lips only touch softly, the taste of toothpaste and the soft smell of roses soap is what Eryx notices the most, the soft texture of Sevan's lips, the coldness of his nose and forehead touching each other's, the calm rhythmic breath, everything is swallowed and saved in Eryx's memory of this moment.
It's short, Sevan seems more hesitant to kiss Eryx deeply there in their dorm room than in the Student Council's office. Eryx wants more, his eyes pleading and his lips red and parted, a little more and even his fangs might pop out.
''Go to sleep now, Eryx'', his voice is soft like a whisper, and just like that, Eryx finally sleeps.
✦
Secretary Theodore: Hey Sev, are ya sleeping yet?
Secretary Theodore: I heard some funny things from my roommate.
Sevan: N.
Secretary Theodore: You brought the Algeo kid to the office.
Secretary Theodore: Then asked everyone to leave work early, which you don't usually do.
Secretary Theodore: Is this true?
Sevan: Y.
Secretary Theodore sent a Shocked Panda figurine.
Secretary Theodore: Why?
Sevan: He was sick.
Secretary Theodore: Ok?
Secretary Theodore: What's your relationship w that kid?
Secretary Theodore: I know Milo asked you to look after him, but it's not… usual for you to go to such lengths.
Sevan: Boyfriend.
Secretary Theodore: What.
Secretary Theodore: Who's?
Sevan: Mine.
Secretary Theodore sent a Disturbed Panda figurine.
Secretary Theodore: Are these one of your jokes?
Sevan: N.
Secretary Theodore: …
Secretary Theodore: Did you drink spoiled blood?
Secretary Theodore: You…
Secretary Theodore: This makes absolutely no sense.
Secretary Theodore: Why? How?
Sevan: He asked.
Secretary Theodore: So what?
Secretary Theodore: From high school, even last year, you got confessed to by so freaking many people, why did you say yes to him? That's what makes no sense.
Secretary Theodore sent a Dizzy Panda figurine.
Sevan sent a Bored Raven figurine.
Sevan: Goodnight.
Secretary Theodore: Stop running away Sev.
Secretary Theodore: Are you dating the poor kid just because he's the teach's bro?
Secretary Theodore: You tend to overlook other's feelings when they don't concern you.
Secretary Theodore: If that's it you should break up.
Secretary Theodore: Don't play with the poor kid's heart.
Secretary Theodore: I'm serious Sev.
Secretary Theodore sent a Frustrated Panda figurine.
✦
Wind and the strong scent of flowers fills his nostrils before he even realizes where he is, a small cemetery, clumped with so many tombstones, some don't even have a name or even a picture, others are badly cared for while others are pristine and have candles and flowers on them. The feeling of walking across this place is almost unreal, there is no feeling of the ground, and he isn't even sure how he's walking.
Slowly he passes each tombstone, checking the names, their colors, the amount they're cared for, a sudden thought crosses his mind, that if he's dead, he wishes someone would care for his tombstone just like some of those are cared for. He stops for a few moments in front of a few tombstones, some have more than one person buried, like a big family or what it seems like couples, while others bring him to a halt due to the young age of the deceased.
90 years, 74 years, 12 years, 8 years, 20 years, 45 years and even 7 months old, there is no discrimination in death, all the ages, all the genders, everyone in the end is there, buried down alongside the memories they developed in their short or long lifespan. It's sad to think some people managed to live long while others sadly left this world way too early.
What is it like knowing? That you could've had so much more if you managed to live just a little bit more?
He doesn't believe in life post-mortem, maybe he should, considering his own circumstances, but how can he? Everything feels too unreal and the idea that you can know that you died way too early and left behind those who loved you despite your intentions would hurt too much.
With such thought he finally walks towards a small tombstone, it's just a plaque on the floor, but its shining, its well-taken cared of, and it has a few dead bouquets of flowers surrounding it, the picture isn't clear to him, strangely enough he can't even read the name in it, contrary to how he was able to see all of the previous ones.
Yet he can see the age in which this person died. 19 years old. His blood runs cold, there's no doubt, this is his own tomb. He thought he would be more shocked or sad, but all he feels is disbelief and exhaustion, as if being there is draining his energy.
Why wouldn't? He is face to face with his own grave, under all that dirt his bones lie.
A rustling sound catches his attention, a tall woman walks towards him, but she doesn't seem to be able to actually see him, she walks past him and stands in front of his grave. She seems to be around 40 to 45 years of age, she's wearing black clothes, but they're all fancy ones, her hazelnut eyes are filled with sadness and her dark brown hair is up in one of those buns he always associated with old rich ladies. She's also carrying a fresh bouquet of chrysanthemums, bending over to place it near the plaque and also grab the ones that withered.
''▯▯▯, I'm so sorry…'' She says, her voice is sweet and small tears start to run down her face, he wants to step in and dry her tears, even if he can't hear the name she muttered, he can't avoid but know that the woman speaking is his sister from his past life. When he died she must've been 26 years old, so the image of her he's seeing now is from many years later. ''It's been 19 years, you'd be 38 now… I wonder if you would have built a family by now, you always said that romance was a waste of time'', she smiles between her tears. ''Well, you did have a hard time understanding feelings, maybe that also was my fault…''
No, it's not your fault, he wants to scream to her, but even if he opens his mouth, no sound leaves it. All he can do is stand there and watch as his sister cries on his grave.
''Remember the game I nagged you to play?'' She continues, drying her tears with a yellow handkerchief. ''After so many years I decided to make a sequel, it's quite successful, but I can't seem to stop myself from mirroring a character on you…'' She laughs again, the weather is gloomy, but her tears shine with the few sunrays that sweep through. ''My colleague said I should give the character a happy ending to pour on them my wishes for you, yet I can't bring myself to do it'', she sighs. ''I can't stop even a fictional version of you from spreading their own wings and following their own path''.
She pauses, caressing the wilted flowers, as if to bring comfort to herself.
''They recommended using a new AI software where you input the characters personality and how they act and according to the way the person plays, it changes the storyline'', she continues, bending so that she can sit down on the ground, her fancy clothes getting crumpled and dirty but she doesn't seem to mind. ''I was against it at first, thinking it would remove the individuality of working through the programming'', she says, tilting her head, staring at his picture on the plaque. ''But surprisingly I'm having a lot more work'', she laughs softly. ''Placing the right cues so that the characters don't act out of script or that the story still moves properly is hard, but I think this way I at least feel as if they're alive and… you… are alive''.
Another pause, she places her hand in her face, crying, she sobs for a while, he can't be sure for how long.
''I know it's selfish of me, but I keep logging in and seeing if the character I made based on you is having a happy ending in people's playthroughs'', she can't seem to stop sobbing. ''I miss you so much brother, I don't know how to live without you, I keep waking up everyday and naively thinking that you being dead is just a dream''.
This hurts a lot, seeing her desperation, her pain, he never wished to see that, he feels selfish for being happy with his brothers, for thinking about having a relationship or for even naively thinking he can protect others when he couldn't even get past the age of 19. He is a failure as a brother, he was before and always will be.
If he could, he wouldn't return to her, and that's what hurts the most, how could he?
In one world he had his loving sister that raised him so well despite his condition, and in the other he has his brothers that also did the same. In both realities he's loved and cared for, how can he choose one? He's glad he doesn't have to.
But it doesn't hurt any less.
''Wherever you are, please be happy, please'', she mumbles, another silence ensuing so that she can cry even more. ''I miss you so much brother, so fucking much''.
✦
Eryx is shaken awake, he opens his eyes in surprise, staring at Sevan deep white eyes. Maybe in this situation he would be met by eyes that show some kind of emotion, but no, there is none. ''What were you dreaming of?'' Sevan asks.
''Nothing, why?'' Eryx lies.
He's not about to say he dreamed of his past life sister crying on his grave.
Sevan doesn't look like he believes him, either way he moves away from Eryx, clearly finishing from dressing up for another new day, he glances at his phone to check the time. It's not even 6 a.m. yet.
''It's too early, how much did you sleep?'' Eryx asks.
''Four hours'', Sevan answers, he doesn't even look at Eryx, the coldness in his eyes, actions and voice makes the boy wonder if he did something wrong in the span of the few hours he was asleep, maybe he spoke while having the dream?
''Are you mad at me or something?'' Eryx asks, with the question Sevan pauses as he puts on his tie.
''No''.
Then why? Eryx wonders but can't bring himself to say it, they're dating but their relationship is still dependent on Sevan wanting it, and he can't be too needy or it might bring his likeability down.
They stay in silence for a few minutes while Sevan gets ready, Eryx watches him quietly, he isn't even sure of what he wanted to do or hear from the other, after all he never had a relationship before, all he knows is from movies, and seeing his brothers in relationships.
And his brothers aren't exactly good representations of relationships.
One is trapped in a toxic relationship for 200 years, the other is overly affectionate while the other is the classic representation of a private relationship. Without even counting the fact that Levi is a womanizer, Milo never even touched another human being and Mael is clearly still getting over some sort of past romance. Luc doesn't count, of course, because he is the definition of romance hater.
All of them are so distinct in their own relationships, that Eryx can't even use a single one of them as reference to what a healthy one is supposed to be like, and even if he did, what would guarantee that it would be what Sevan expects of their relationship? He's only dating Eryx so that he won't be taken advantage of by someone else.
And everything Eryx does is of the goal of keeping his brothers alive.
Even if he surely is attracted to Sevan, and he isn't mad at the idea of being in a relationship with him. He's only in this situation because the system forced him to.
Yeah, I shouldn't expect anything. He thinks with a sigh, he could attempt to try to sleep again, but that dream disturbed him too much, so he should just get up and maybe check more of the documents on his desk.
''I have a few meetings now, at 10 we'll have a meeting with all the Student Council members, if possible, please attend'', Sevan says as he grabs his bag. ''Don't worry too much as it's just an introduction of new members and the distribution of duties''.
Eryx nods, he isn't too worried, he isn't there to make friends, and after all he went through in his past schools, he can't bear to try to make new friends even if they're completely different species.
Before leaving through the door, Sevan hesitates, turning to walk towards Eryx, he places a kiss on his lips, the kiss is fast and soft, next he kisses Eryx's forehead. ''Take care, if you need me just go by the office, I'm most often than not, there.''
His words are softer which confuses the boy, one moment he acts distant, the other he acts like a proper boyfriend, even if the emotion in his eyes never shifts, what he's getting at? Why are his actions so hard to read?
This time Sevan leaves, Eryx hugs his knees, thinking. The missions are progressing swiftly and he's starting to establish himself properly in the Academy, already being able to find his classes without asking random people. It was a nightmare having to deal with the gazes and the murmurs that followed, sure, he is aware that he's a walking gossip fountain, yet he can't help but feel small under the gazes of those who judge him.
With a yawn, Eryx decides to get up, he takes a long cold shower, drinks a few blood packs that Milo gave him the previous afternoon, gets dressed and then finally sits down at his desk to look at the rest of the papers he couldn't the day prior. It's still 6:30 a.m., damn, is that why people barely sleep? He wonders as he starts reading the papers.
It takes him two hours to finish organizing and going through all the papers, and since he still had some time left, he started thinking of a proper financial plan, which takes him another hour. He stares at the finished paper, it's a bit rough, but I think it might be good enough. Then he gets up, stretching as he thinks what he'll do with the remaining half-an-hour before the meeting.
I should go to the cafeteria, grab my daily blood bag and then go to the office, he decides, shoving the papers onto his bag and leaving through the door.
The dorm building is bustling with people moving to their classes, some people stare at Eryx as he passes them, but none look at him long enough to make him uncomfortable. At this point, he should get used to being a magnet to passerbys' gazes. However, regardless of the gazes, no one approaches him, probably due to his scary brothers, or maybe because he used to be ''different'' from them, either way, of course Eryx feels sad for being ostracized, but in the end of the day, it's better to be ostracized than abused.
''Found you!'' A loud voice in his ear and a strong arm interlocking with his catches Eryx by surprise the moment he enters the cafeteria. ''Do you have any idea how hard it is to find the Link Academy celebrity?'' The female voice belongs to a woman Eryx never saw before.
She's smaller than Eryx, her skin is white like paper, and alongside her bob cut white hair and baby blue eyes he can tell she's a Weise. There are a lot of families that have strong features that go through generations and can sell out who they are by a simple gaze. For the Algeo family is the fiery red hair alongside the red eyes - which Eryx doesn't have -, and for the Weise family is the albino-like features, of course one can't compare human albinos with vampire albinos. While human albinos have several downsides due to their genetic condition, those with vampiric blood don't suffer too much, as they have their blood to mitigate against it. They're still extremely sensitive to light, not only in their eyes like most vampires, but they are sometimes unable to go out in the sun, since their skin might burn and kill them. However the Weise family is a pure-blooded family that excelled in mitigating those ailments with their carefully curated genetics.
All of their children are inseminated in labs, so that they can remove the genetic markers and even alter anything that could bring them harm in the future. Some rumors say they even figured out how to manipulate the genus of their children, but those are only rumors.
Overall, they're a recluse family, so Eryx only knows what Nicolas told him after he met the head of the Weise household in a meeting. Eryx himself, of course, never met one. However one glance at the woman next to him is enough for him to know she belongs to that family.
''Don't look so worried'', She laughs, ''I'm Heloise Weise'', she confirms his suspicions. ''I just want to be your friend!''
''Damn extrovert…'', a somber voice next to her catches Eryx's attention, walking next to them is a boy, he doesn't seem to be enjoying being there. And it doesn't take long for Eryx to recognize him as well, this time from a picture he saw in Mael's graduation album. The Daya family is an extensive family, just like the Algeos, however contrary to the Algeos, both of their progenitors died in a fire ten years ago, so the new head of the family is their eldest son, whom not many know the name of. But as well as any old vampire family in Iris City, his features are easily recognizable.
He's as tall as Eryx, has long straight black hair that reaches his elbow, dark eyes surrounded by dark circles, a face filled with freckles and he's wearing a black robe over his uniform, the only thing noteworthy in his appearance is his bag that is filled to the brim with animal pins.
''Don't be like that Nero! We need new friends!'' She says, dragging Eryx around to the cafeteria line, he isn't exactly sure of what's going on, nor how he should react that two people from such prestigious families are around him.
''You need new friends, I'm completely satisfied alone'', the boy named Nero says, grabbing his phone, clearly uninterested in the conversation, his phone case is in the shape of a starfish, which is even more off-putting considering his all-black demeanor.
''Don't mind him, he's still grieving his bad decisions in high school'', Heloise says with a smirk, Nero raises his eyes from his phone with a glare.
''Shut up''.
''Or what? You'll ask a rat to attack me or something?'' She taunts slightly shoving the somber boy with her hand, just then Eryx notices that Heloise is wearing fancy jewelry from head to toe, as if it would make her shine more than the sun, looking at it too much even makes his eyes hurt.
''I might'', Nero answers, tilting his head, making his face clearer once his hair gets off it. He is quite good-looking, not like the game male-leads, but he has striking features that make you want to look more than once.
''Ha.'', Heloise laughs. ''Bring it on, last time you cried because I killed an ant!''
''Don't even bring that up!'' Nero raises his voice, clearly mad.
''I never thought I would see Eryx Algeo hanging with two losers'', the husky voice behind Eryx makes him shiver in disgust, the strong scent of cigarettes reach his nose before he can even turn to see Cassius Felix.
Again, the man is the clear male lead here, drop-dead gorgeous and even his tacky blue highlights in his hair look stylish, but his demeanor and the stench of smoke bring his appearance from a 10 to a 7.
''Fuck off Felix'', Heloise says, clearly hostile, her eyes show disgust in such a way that even Eryx can't help but feel intimidated.
''Calm down Weise, I just came to save the Algeo youngest from your clutches'', he says with a smirk, his arm around Eryx's neck, he seems to be using him to provoke the two others, and it bothers him immensely.
''Disgusting prick'', Nero mumbles, and as if driven by a force beyond nature a bird flies through the cafeteria directly into Cassius, who struggles against it.
''Cut it off Nero!'' He yells. By assumption, Nero Daya must be a zooempath, quite rare, Eryx observes, slipping off both Heloise's and Cassius' grasps.
Finally being able to grab his blood bag, I'm hungry already, it's been what? Four hours since I ate? He thinks, placing the bag on his lips and sucking the delicious and cold blood, ignoring completely the three people fighting next to him.
It appears that Cassius lost, since as soon as Eryx finishes his bag the other two approach him again.
''Sorry about that, we don't deal well with that piece of shit'' Heloise says, grabbing her phone. ''Give us your number, let's be friends, I promise we're usually… calmer''.
''Lies'', Nero mumbles, sipping on his own blood bag.
''Shut up Nero! You exaggerated with the bird, you know your sister is going to give us a beating because of this!'' Heloise says, annoyed.
''I can't help it'', Nero says, diverting his gaze, apparently ashamed, but Eryx can't tell with his hair in front of his eyes.
''He's like this because that dude is his ex'', Heloise says with a sigh.
Nero protests. ''Hey, why would you share this with him?''
''Because we're trying to be friends?''
''Then share your shameful dating history!'' Nero says, tucking his hair behind his ear, making it easier for Eryx to tell he's blushing.
''Well, I never dated a theater kid that thinks he's a genius star and that cheated on me because he needed to evolve from a caterpillar to a butterfly'', Heloise says grinning after Eryx finally gives her his number.
''You were the one that said I shouldn't allow him to pressure me!'' Nero says.
''Of course, I'm a great friend, thank you for reminding me!'' Heloise says, rolling her eyes.
''Still, outing me like this is rude, you know, what if he is a homophobe?'' Nero claims, biting his nail, clearly distressed.
''I would never Nero'', Heloise says, ''Eryx here is dating Sevan, you know'', she says, the moment he hears those words Nero freezes, his eyes going from his friend to Eryx in complete shock.
''The robot?''
Why does everyone call him that?
''The one and only!'' Heloise says with another laugh, she seems to be having fun. ''So you're not the only one with bad luck in love'', she comments.
''Wait'', Eryx finally speaks, ''How you know that?''
''Huh?'' She tilts her head, confused. ''I'm part of the Student Council too! The president notified everyone in the group chat, I thought you knew''.
She grabs her phone, searching for something before turning it for Eryx to see.
Student Council
Robot President: Meeting today. Time: 10 a.m. Location: Student Council's Office. Agenda: New recruits, distribution of duties and yearly goals. Obligatory participants: Everyone in the Student Council.
Robot President: We have a new Treasurer, Eryx Algeo, he'll be added after the meeting. Remember to make all the financial reports of your respective department by the end of the week.
Robot President: Anyone who's late will have a 5% decrease in their salaries.
Hot Secretary: What the President means is that you'll lose 5 of the 100 points you yearly get.
Hot Secretary: Anyone who'll be unable to participate due to classes please contact me privately.
Heloise: So the hot topic newcomer is a new recruit too? Fun fun fun.
Hot Secretary: Miss Weise, please refrain from commenting on irrelevant topics in the group chat.
Heloise: Bummer, is it true that he's as good-looking as his brothers? Can't wait to meet him!
Heloise: Ops, wrong chat, sorry y'all.
Heloise sent a Bowing Monkey figurine.
2XX-XX-XXX: He is even more good-looking than Luc!
3XX-XX-XXX: Where does the President know him from?
Hot Secretary: Everyone, please, this isn't the place for such discussions.
Heloise: OMG THE PRESIDENT KNOWS HIM?
Heloise: Spill the beans!
Heloise sent a Monkey Drinking Tea figurine.
Robot President: Refrain from personal conversations in this group chat.
Robot President: Eryx Algeo is my boyfriend, but be known that this isn't relevant for anyone's work and it is a personal matter.
Heloise sent a Dancing Monkey figurine.
Hot Secretary sent a Stressed Panda figurine.
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Eryx isn't sure if he's dumbfounded, annoyed or completely surprised that this conversation is something real, that actually happened.
''Wow, is the Student Council filled with dumbasses?'' Nero asks with a scoff.
''Either way! The point is, Eryx here isn't someone who'll judge you, maybe for your tastes, but that's something else''.
''My taste isn't all that bad'', Nero blushes.
''Well, you only like popular scumbags so'', Heloise shrugs. ''Now tell us Eryx, how is it dating someone unable to have feelings?''
He glances at his own phone. ''I don't know what you mean, and I need to go to the meeting''.
Heloise continues to walk next to him, alongside Nero who follows them quietly as he stares at his phone, pretending to be uninterested in the conversation.
''C'mon, I know you just met him and all but, I'm impressed, honestly'', she says, ''He was quite popular in high school but he never showed interest in anyone''.
''Maybe he's just interested in me then'', Eryx says, knowing damn well that it is a lie. Sevan is only dating him because it is convenient for his own goal. In that sense, Eryx is also using him to achieve the ending of this game.
''Sure, let's see if that is the reason, because not once I saw his color change from white'', Heloise says, pointing to her eyes. ''I can see people's emotions, you know, and his, never changed from neutral''.
''Perhaps you just can't see his'', Eryx points out as they enter the main building.
''No, if I can see the white I'm supposed to be able to see the rest, there are only a few people whom I can't read'', Heloise says, pridefully.
''Who?''
''My parents and your brother, the teacher''.
''Milo? His emotions are quite clear, though'', Eryx comments, ''He's always sleepy, annoyed or tired''.
''Ha, funny how you brothers are all the same'', Heloise laughs, ''Luc said the same thing''.
''You know Luc?''
''Yeah, I've been part of the basketball club since high school'', she says, grabbing her phone to show Eryx a picture of her with Luc's team from his school days. ''Too bad they split girls and boys due to height, I really wanted to play with him''.
''Is that a crush?'' Nero mocks from behind.
Heloise rolls her eyes again. ''No, it's admiration, who likes him is you''.
Her comment makes the boy blush again, Eryx sighs, this conversation is draining him, he's not used to futile conversations, they don't seem to be seeking something out of him for now, but that's what makes him even more exhausted, how's he supposed to deal with people that don't want to take advantage of him for something?
''I d-don't l-like him'', Nero stutters, hiding his face behind his hair again.
''I swear, you're too obvious''.
''You shouldn't like Luc'', Eryx says, opening the door of the office. ''He has no interest in romance'', he says, finally entering the room.
He doesn't pay attention to the two others after he enters the office, walking directly towards Sevan, who is at his desk talking with his friend and secretary. His white eyes are calm under his glasses, and he seems distant, as if he's just a mirage Eryx is seeing. He isn't sure the origin of this anxiety in his heart, but he decides to push it further back, so that he can't pay attention to it anymore.
Sevan raises his head, finally looking at Eryx, who blushes with the sudden attention, he can feel the eyes of the other 30 members of the Student Council on him.
''Since everyone arrived on time, let's start the meeting'', Sevan says, still staring at Eryx, the moment he changes his gaze, Eryx sighs. He takes a seat at one of the many chairs at the office, he notices the different people there, so many appearances and genders, some look like seniors while others are clearly freshman, including the heroine that is standing on the far back, looking straight at Sevan, when there are no eyes on her, she seems more… real, her gaze is serious and cold, and her braided hair makes her look like a huntress from one of Eryx childhood books, she doesn't feel like a game heroine, she just looks like an ordinary girl.
''Wow, you were right'', Heloise whispers to him as she takes a seat behind him. ''I managed to see his emotions flicking for like a second''.
''To what?'' Eryx asks, out of curiosity.
''It's hard to pinpoint since it was too quick, it could be either anger, envy or jealousy'', she says, ''The colors are all similar tones of purple''.
Eryx's heartbeat accelerates with her comment, why would such negative emotions be what Sevan felt looking at him? Is there another reason for their relationship besides the ones he assumed?
''Don't worry too much, I'm sure it wasn't directed at you'', she reassures him, but her gaze doesn't seem confident. ''Sometimes lingering emotions can pop up when you see a trigger, like how with the mere mention of that third-rate actor wannabe's name, Nero will shine dark green''.
''What dark green means?''
''Self-shame''.
He wants to ask more about Sevan emotions, but he can't, as the meeting starts.
The whole meeting took two hours, Sevan's voice was well-projected in the office, his expression never wavered and he explained everything clearly, about the Student Council goals for the academic year, the new recruits' roles and even what they were expecting for the next weeks. He was made for this role, Eryx thinks. In the end, Eryx will be working with an assistant as the Treasurer, even if Sevan said he could just make a test-run, he seems to believe Eryx will continue there. All departments have at least 3 or more people, so it makes sense that he wouldn't work alone, especially considering the huge amount of documents, either way, he isn't sure if assigning her as his assistant was something Sevan did on purpose or not.
Because why would the heroine be his assistant, if not a cruel joke from this universe?
''Nice to meet you, I'm Seren Mila'', she says, extending her hand, everyone is now discussing with their new colleagues, integrating the newbies, so to say. Why would he put two newbies together? Eryx can't help but wonder, but he takes her hand either way.
''Eryx Algeo'', he says, out of politeness. ''Seems like we'll be working together, can you give me your number?'' He asks, she nods, blushing.
Why is she blushing? He thinks, disturbed.
''Sorry'', she says, cleaning her throat. ''I also would like to apologize for barging in yesterday'', her words make her face even redder. Just then Eryx remembers, his face also turning red.
''Oh'', he says, trembling slightly, unsure how to act. ''It's okay''.
They're both embarrassed, but after a couple seconds and another exchange of words, they're able to go back to talking about their duties, discussing their schedule and how they should split the documents, in the end Eryx decided that he would work on the papers and she would only assist in providing numbers, talking with the departments and revising the papers before they submit to the President.
''I think 7 p.m. is the best timetable for meetings'', She says, checking her schedule. ''I have tennis club after class and during lunch I have piano lessons'', her words are calm, and her voice is soft, but those words bring Eryx back to reality. Her activities are similar to what it was in-game to contact the male-leads, he sighs, remembering that partaking in a sports club is one of the paths for increasing Nash Vega's likeability and the piano classes are events for Prometheus Onasis. Even if the heroine doesn't have a system like his or a goal to romance them, her choices are leading her there.
And her success is his downfall.
''You're awfully busy'', he comments.
''Yeah, I don't like being idle'', she murmurs, almost to herself.
''At 7 it is then, remember that we need to submit everything by the end of this month'', he says, adding the reminder on his phone. ''If you're unable to do anything just let me know in advance''.
''Of course, I'll try my best!'' She says, eagerly. He isn't sure exactly what's her angle, if it was up to him he wouldn't even speak to her, it would be better that way, so that he doesn't feel bad for ruining her plans for his own happiness.
Everyone slowly leaves the office, for lunch and later classes, Eryx checks his schedule. Annoying classes today too, he thinks with a sigh, maybe he'll just select a random easy major just so he can graduate. When he turns to leave alongside the rest of those who remain, Sevan calls him out.
"Stay, Eryx, I want to talk with you", his tone is professional, and his gaze is on his paperwork, next to him Theodore is also working on something. Why? He asks himself, but still does as he's told, approaching Sevan's desk.
Finally the man looks up, his white eyes always bring shivers down his spine, the good kind of shivers. I can't decide which one I like more, white or dark pink, he thinks, prickling his nail out of anxiety.
"How's the paperwork, any doubts?" Sevan asks.
"Besides the ones from yesterday, none." Eryx says, shaking slightly as he attempts to take some papers off his bag, succeeding after a small struggle. "I attempted to craft a plan for the clubs budget and I'm still working on the proposal for the events, since I never took part in any of them, I'm not sure of their scale", he says, giving the paper to Sevan, who reads it attentily, even Theodore gets up from his desk to check the paper.
"This is quite good, you just need to work more on the information, I can send you a few models through email, since it's all over the page it's hard to read", Theodore comments, nodding. "But either way it's quite interesting and seems effective".
"Each club should make their own budget either way, forcing them to report expenses is a good way to control how much they actually need, and giving out set bonuses for achievements, events and active members is good. If the amount is already informed in the beginning we can foresee how much they'll require". Sevan comments, it's probably the longest sentence he ever spoke in front of Eryx. He really takes all of this seriously.
"Yes, and since the budget must be made at the beginning of every trimester and the report at the end, we can tell how each group assigns their money and who we must cut funding. I saw a few clubs had their budget cut just for being less active in events, but when I searched a bit more, they had a few awards, so it didn't seem fair", he comments, hiding his shaking hand behind his back. "And of course I also think we should make random inspections so that we're sure that all reports and budgets are true, otherwise they could just be faking numbers".
Sevan nods. "Yes, but wouldn't this be too much work for you and that girl? I don't have more personnel to assign to the Treasury, unfortunately", he says, staring straight into Eryx's eyes.
"If you see behind the last page, I made an estimative of time we'll spend doing activities of the Student Council, of course I was only foreseeing myself, with the help of Miss Mila, I'll be able to cut down 30% of the time", he says, swallowing dry, he can't help but blush under the intense gaze of Sevan, he is unable to even stop shaking, he's unsure how he's even able to speak without stuttering.
Of course he's anxious, this is the first time he's doing something like this, he's scared of failing, scared of criticism and scared of disappointing Sevan, who trusted him with this based on frivolous achievements.
"Why only 30%?" Theodore asks.
"Because Miss Mila has other activities and I am more experienced with numbers than her, so her help will be more social, with the inspections and reports." He can't look Sevan in the eye anymore, so he turns his gaze towards his feet.
"You don't plan on joining any clubs?" Sevan asks.
"Not really, I'm not a fan of group activities and since I accepted the responsibility, I should see it through", he answers.
"Good, the proposal is good, you can proceed with this, just do it more neatly as Theodore pointed out", Sevan says, giving back the papers to Eryx. "And don't worry, you're doing well", he continues, he raises his gaze to look at Sevan, his eyes are soft, so he doesn't seem mad anymore, behind him Theodore has a clearly disturbed expression. It's interesting how one shows all his emotions while the other shows none. "Oh, and if you already fed this morning, you should shower before your classes in the afternoon".
Eryx blushes again, "Do I smell?" He asks, bothered by the other's words.
Sevan shakes his head softly. "You smell like cigarettes".
"I didn't smoke", Eryx's first instinct is to defend himself, he doesn't even want to be around any kind of drug, why would he…
"I know, Eryx, but the scent is all over you, did you meet Felix?" Sevan's tone is accusatory, but Eryx isn't even sure why.
"Yes, he was taunting the people I was with". Eryx mumbles. "I'm sorry, I was stuck in the middle".
"It's not your fault, I'm just telling you so you can clean yourself before you go to class today, don't you have class with your brother later on?" His statement makes Eryx blush again, I'm such a mess in front of him, all the time, well, again, when isn't he a mess? He nods. Sevan gets up, walking towards him, just then Eryx notices that just the three of them remain inside the office.
He places his hand on Eryx's chin, pulling his face up a bit so that they're eye to eye, up close Sevan's white eyes are even more mesmerizing, they look like a salt desert shining in the sun. The man leans over, placing a kiss on Eryx's lips, differently from the hasty one from that morning, the kiss is longer, softer, Sevan licks his lips slowly, making the boy shiver, he holds back a moan and tries to think of something else so that his hormones don't bring forth an erection. Especially considering they're not alone. The kiss ends with Sevan biting Eryx's lower lip softly. For a man said to be devoid of emotions, his kisses are extremely seductive.
"I should go now", Eryx whispers, a bit numb. "T-Thanks", he can't help but stumble as he leaves, his heart pounding loudly and his face scarlet red.
The door of the office closes loudly.
"Was that really necessary dude?" Theodore comments with a sigh, he's back at his desk, his expression shows clear disgust.
Sevan shrugs. "Isn't that what lovers do?"
"Are you seriously asking me if that obscene kiss was something lovers do? Sure, but not in front of others! Save it for your dorm!" Theodore says, clearly exasperated.
"I can't do that in our room, it's inappropriate", Sevan comments, sitting back down. Theodore stares at him in disbelief.
"You're joking," after a few seconds of silence he continues. "I feel bad for the kid, dating someone that doesn't even like him."
"Who said I don't like him?" Sevan says, focusing on his paperwork, the beginning of the academic year is always the busiest.
"So you like him?"
"I didn't say that either", Sevan answers honestly. "I am attracted to him if that is of any value".
"No, backtrack this. You're dating him because he asked, and you don't like him, but you're attracted to him?" Theodore asks, per usual his hands are as expressive as his face.
"Correct", Sevan answers, completely unbothered.
"Sev, that's cruel to the kid, he clearly likes you", Theodore says with a tired sigh. "You're always like this, you'll play with something while it's fun and then leave once it's broken."
"People aren't toys, Theodore".
"Are you sure that's how you see them?" His friend's question makes Sevan pause, no, he isn't sure, he isn't even sure of his own mind half of the time. He was raised to act and think with only reason in mind, feelings have no room in his life.
He remembers clearly before entering Link Academy, his parents saying he could have his fix during these three years, do whatever he wants and once he graduates he'll start learning the ropes around the company and marry a vampire of their choice. Those are the truths of his life, so there's no use liking someone, that's a feeling he doesn't even know.
"Eryx wanted a boyfriend and I didn't mind, none of us sees this as something long-term", Sevan says, he doesn't want to think too much of it. Sometimes Theodore knows how to make him have a headache.
"Sure, whatever makes you sleep properly at night", Theodore says, giving up the fight. "Just remember that, your small temporary boyfriend has brothers that can ruin you and your family's life if you hurt him, so try to be clear with your feelings from the beginning", there's nothing but worry in his friend's eyes. "Or lack thereof".
Sevan nods. "Of course".