Leaning against the dormitory door, Yvonne felt weak from using her transformation power. But this time, the cool, fresh air and the recent rain made a difference. She didn't feel drained like usual; instead, she felt… almost alive.
Yvonne had discovered her powers late.
Most children discovered theirs by the age of three, some by five or six. But her's was different? She only discovered it at the age of thirteen. And it wasn't like anyone else's. Her first ability… was Mind shackle, the name she gave it—a rare power, one she was still learning to control.
Checking her surroundings carefully, Yvonne made her way to the river behind the school garden. She had explored the area earlier in the day and had discovered it—a quiet, hidden stretch of water, perfect for thinking… and for hiding.
The cool water beckoned unto her the moment she saw it and couldn't resist.
The river smelled of fresh rain, carried the sound of dripping leaves, and the faint rush of hidden currents whispered possibilities, dangers, and freedom all at once.
Stripping off her clothes, She stepped in, letting the river swallow her in its chill. Her body relaxed instantly, and she rested her back against a smooth rock, the water almost reaching her neck.
Closing her eyes, memories of her sisters flooded into her. The carefree days they spent swimming in downtown's river… their laughter echoing in her mind… their bright, satisfied faces.
Yvonne hoped Alessandra was at least taking care of them. But… would she even know where she lived? She hadn't come to the mansion either. And honestly, with the way she was treated, why would she bother? Still… Alessandra couldn't endure the harsh life of downtown.
God! My head!
Suddenly, a ripple disturbed the water. Yvonne eyes snapped open and froze.
Eric was standing there, staring at her with an intense gaze that sent shivers down her spine.
"What are you doing here?" His deep voice carried an edge that made her heart skip.
Yvonne blinked, unsure how he got here without her noticing. "Eric?! When did you get here?" She asked, confused.
Her water sense hadn't detected him, and she was certain she hadn't been followed. Unless... He hid himself somehow.
Eric sneered. "When did I get here? Are you really asking me that?"
What kind of reply is that?
Scrutinizing him. Yvonne noticed he had a pale, chiseled face, dark, mysterious eyes, a straight pointed nose, and thin lips. Despite the darkness around, the water reflected light, letting her see him clearly. Damn, he was… a beauty.
"Do you really lose your memories, or are you pretending?" Eric said, his voice dripping with disgust. "Alessandra, do you think you can get my attention with this act?"
"Huh?" Yvonne raised an eyebrow, confused. What did attention have to do with her? She barely cared about him—handsome or not, it wasn't enough to make her obsessed.
"You are really something, Alessandra. Going this far just to attract my attention? Do you think you're worthy?" His gaze burned with irritation, and it made her furious.
Yvonne growled. "Hey. Don't give me that look. I hate it!"
Eric's surprise was visible, but only for a split second. "You do? Then why follow me here?"
"Follow you here?" Yvonne scoffed. "Why would I follow you? Do I look like someone with nothing better to do than stick to someone as irritating as you?"
"What? Irritating?!" Eric's eyes narrowed in disbelief. Someone just called him irritating… and it was Alessandra!
"Yeah. What? You don't know you're irritating?" Yvonne retorted. "Do you think you're someone special? Just because you're handsome? Hah! What a joke! Alessandra must've been blind to fall for someone like you!"
"Huh?" Eric frowned, confused. "Alessandra?" Why did she say her name as if she were talking about someone else?
Realizing she had slip, Yvonne immediately corrected herself. "I mean… me. I must've been blind to fall for someone like you!"
Eric raised an eyebrow, staring at the girl in front of him with an intensity that made Yvonne herself break into a cold sweat.
Damnit! Eric was smart. Too smart. Yvonne prayed he didn't let curiosity get the better of him. She couldn't afford attention right now—not while she was still figuring out this mess.
"I'm leaving," Yvonne said, immediately standing up, ready to escape… until she realized she was naked.
Turning to Eric, Yvonne saw his gaze immediately zeroed in on her.
"Pervert!" She screamed, kicking him squarely in the chest. He stumbled back into the water, splashing and sputtering, as she dashed for the shore.
But before she could reach her clothes, something yanked her back into the water, sending a chill through her body.