Chapter 2 Chapter 2

Chapter 2

Ramy Clemson 

Standing in the middle of the road, I stared into space in confusion. On the right was the route that led to my part-time job, and on the left was the one that led to the Rune Mansion, where the party—or should I say initiation—was taking place.

I was at a crossroads. I didn't know what to do. Should I choose my part-time job? But if I did, I'd stand the risk of losing my scholarship. If that happened, my stepmom would finally have a reason to marry me off to one of her debtors. My education is my last thread of hope. I can't lose it.

Taking a deep breath, I closed my eyes. When I opened them again, I exhaled. I can always find another part-time job, but I cannot find another scholarship. So I'm choosing my school over my job.

Without wasting any more time, I took the left route and began running. I'm already late, and in ten minutes the gate will be closing.

I ran...

And ran...

With every strength I've got, I didn't stop. I don't have that luxury right now. I kept going even though I was tired. I looked at my wristwatch, and I only had two minutes left. I was out of breath, but I didn't stop.

Finally...

I sighted the gate a few meters away. There were only two people left before the gates would close.

No... no... I have to get there.

I watched as the last person entered, and afterward the gate began to close.

"Wait...!" I screamed as I finally got to the gate, holding onto the almost-closed gate and panting heavily, beads of sweat trickling down my forehead.

"I'm sorry. Time is up. You cannot enter."

"But... but I'm here already. Please, you have to let me in." I pleaded, bringing out my phone and showing him my invitation.

"I'm sorry. Maybe some other time." He said with a note of finality.

"Let her in."

A deep, cold, stoic voice rang out, and I could swear it sounded familiar.

Without arguing, the man at the gate opened it wider, and I got in.

Seeing the number of students inside, I almost couldn't believe my eyes. What's so special about being a member of the Runes? I mean, I know they are the lawmakers of the school, rich families and all that, but I've also heard how heartless and merciless they are. So I don't get the hype of people wanting to be close to them. Or could it be prestige?

I made my way to the back and sneaked into a corner. I just wanted to be invisible and unnoticed. But just like every other day in school, I still felt like there was a pair of eyes watching me.

I looked around, and everyone was focused on the Runes standing on the stage. Kael was leaning against a pole, his arms folded.

But why is he staring in this direction? Is he searching for someone?

Those green eyes of his would never go unnoticed, even in the dark.

I hate to admit it, but he's so handsome. Just like they say, the devil is always breathtaking.

The next person I saw was Ryker. He had a bright smile on his face, his cute dimple radiating like the sun.

Damn... he's so charming. Just like my Mr. Perfect, my dream boyfriend.

The thought that he'll never notice a scholarship student like me, or want to have anything to do with me...

Sometimes I wish I were one of those rich, popular school slay queens who could easily get close to them.

A nobody like me falling for one of the Runes?

I must be crazy to have such fantasies and impossible dreams.

I know I'm delusional, but at least I can proudly love him in my head.

Zayn walked out with a microphone, and everywhere turned quiet immediately.

"Everyone, listen up. The main event for today is about to begin, but first of all, I'm going to read out the rules of tonight's game."

A game?

I thought this was some type of party, just like the rumors said. How is this some type of game?

"Rule number one: Everything you hear or do today remains here. If you dare say a word outside, you'll not just lose your life, but your whole family might pay for your mistake."

On hearing that, chills ran down my spine.

Okay...

What's really going on?

Is this the reason why no one knows exactly what happens at the Rune initiation party? Are baseless rumors all that can be heard outside?

"Now for the second rule."

Everywhere turned completely silent.

"You'll have to fight each other to get a code. If someone else gets a code and you think you can take it away, then fight and do it, as long as you don't kill that person.

"If you don't get a code and get caught by one of us, the Alpha Brothers, then your life is in our hands.

"Remember, get a code and unlock a premium luxury life in and outside the school. You'll become a secondary member of the Runes and use that privilege anywhere you go. But failure to secure a code leaves you at our mercy."

No... no... no...

I can't do this.

I don't even want to be here.

What kind of crazy and gut-wrenching rule and game is this?

Are they saying we should kill ourselves?

Remember, they said not to kill anyone, Sweeny, my wolf, reminded me.

I'm in trouble, Sweeny. What do I do?

What's there to be afraid of? Let's play the game. I think it's fun. Hehe...

You're not helping, Sweeny. Go to sleep, I said, blocking her off.

"The game starts now."

Zayn dropped the microphone.

I watched as everyone began to run.

Are they already searching for the code?

I don't even know what the code looks like.

Gosh...

Do I also have to run?

Can I even leave if I want to?

The answer is no.

The only choice I have right now is to play the game.

I turned back, and the Alpha Brothers were gone, leaving only Kael, who was still leaning against the pole, staring in my direction.

Those creepy eyes.

"Ewww..."

I shook my head.

They give me goosebumps.

Wasting no more time, I ran off...