Is it really possible? That Edi could be my boss?
Why is his name 'Edi' anyway? Is he some character from Toy Story 3? This is ridiculous. It's confusing, but I kind of like it.
I reached into my pocket for the small sachet of drugs, slowly guiding it toward the twins' cups.
But then I paused.
Should I just get this over with and eliminate them? I do enjoy the thrill of the chase, but something inside me warns me not to underestimate my opponents.
"Damn it," I muttered, feeling my hand shake slightly.
"Maybe another time," I whispered to myself before slipping the sachet back into my pants pocket.
With one last glance at the three glasses of their drinks, I sighed and held the tray, making my way back to their seats.
Stella was chatting with them and noticed me, flashing a smile.
"You're back, Ran! Thanks for the drink!" she said cheerfully, and I responded with a warm smile.
"You're welcome, Stella." I served their drinks on the table and took my seat next to her.
I noticed her blush slightly as she picked up her glass and took a sip.
Edi grabbed his glass without saying anything, and I could see Ed trying to strike up a conversation. It seemed difficult for him, likely because I was the newcomer. Or maybe Edi just isn't fond of me.
Well, that's their problem.
I'm here to work.
Clearing my throat slightly to grab their attention, I asked, "So, what have you all been discussing before I came to serve your drinks?"
Edi raised an eyebrow and set his glass down, letting out a soft yet hearty laugh.
"We're discussing things that servants like you wouldn't understand."
"Edi, don't say that!" Stella interjected quickly, eyes wide with shock.
"Oh…" I said, somewhat taken aback.
I hadn't seen that coming.
BOINK!
"Ah-?!" Edi turned to Ed, who had just tapped the top of his head.
Edi shot a glare at his brother.
"The nerve—"
"The nerve to say that to Ran," Ed replied seriously, making Edi flinch and look away.
"You need to apologize, Edi. That's Stella's crush you're disrespecting," Ed stated bluntly.
Wait, what? I was aware of that, but I didn't quite get their dynamic.
"Excuse me?! Ran is not my crush!" Stella protested, turning bright red and waving her hands in denial.
But that just made Ed smirk with his arms crossed.
"Are you sure? You mentioned him while he was away getting our drinks."
Oh, so they were talking about me.
I see...
That Edi nearly had me worried, thinking they were discussing something critical that could jeopardize my mission.
I couldn't help but chuckle before letting out a sigh.
"I get it. I know that Stella has a crush on me," I said, my voice now more relaxed.
"NO WAY! I DON'T LIKE YOU!" Stella turned to me, her face fully red as she insisted she had no feelings for me, which made Ed laugh even harder.
But Edi's gaze was fixed on mine. What was he trying to do? Read me or something? I decided to ignore it and enjoy the conversation with these friendly people rather than dwell on my own problems.
"You seem a bit relieved, Ran," Edi remarked with a straight face.
How did he know? His comment made me look directly at him, and my eyes widened as they met his.
"Really? You're quite perceptive, Edi." I managed to keep my voice steady and my expression neutral as I leaned back against the couch, exuding a calm demeanor.
Edi gave a casual shrug. "I guess so," he remarked, glancing at Stella, who was still attempting to justify herself, and at Ed, who continued to tease her. "But let's put that aside and enjoy this moment for now," he suggested.
"Alright..." I held his gaze for a moment longer before shifting my attention back to Stella and Ed.
My thoughts were still occupied with what had just transpired. It was brief, yes, but something lingered. How did he know what I was feeling? I'm skilled at concealing my emotions. I'm adept at pretending.
The only person who can read me is the leader; I've been working alongside him since childhood. Now, this guy, Edi, seems to have that ability too.
Damn. Damn. Damn.
I could feel my lips twitching and my breathing becoming irregular.
Oh, by the gods of Zeus.
It appears I've finally found someone I can consider a rival.
Incredible.
Incredible.
Incredible.
Incredible.
Incredible.
Incredible.
Incredible.
"Ran?"
Incredible.
Incredible.
Incredible.
Incredible.
"Ran?"
Incredible.
Incredible.
Incredible.
Incredible.
"RAN?!"
I was jolted back to reality by a voice calling my name.
"What?" I replied, noticing Stella looking at me with a mix of confusion and concern.
"Are you alright? You started smiling oddly and breathing a bit heavily."
Oh, no.
"It was nothing. I just spaced out," I sighed, offering a reassuring wave. Ed shrugged and nodded.
"Well, at least you're doing better than okay," he remarked.
"Hopefully," Edi added, his gaze locking onto mine. I could sense a flicker of anger bubbling up. Stay composed... Not today.
"I am. For good," I said with a forced cheerful smile, and I heard him make a 'tch' sound, indicating his annoyance.