Space Between Us

Chapter 43 (Trouble)

Xyrill

I slowly put a piece of food inside my mouth. And wipe some of the remains of it. I took a glance from a man who is eating in front of me.

This is my first time eating with him. And it is so uncomfortable! He is so quiet. I'm so conscious of the sound I make when eating. It's not because I'm scared of him or anything else.

Do you know the feeling of someone asking to sit with you on a table because there's no table left? That's what I'm feeling right now.

I look at him again, he's not wearing his usual suit and tie but only a long maroon sleeves. I mean it's still morning why would he be wearing a suit.

I know how Phelis and Egilior always teasing me with the Emperor. But to be true, I really don't feel anything for him. Nothing at all! We're both stranger to each other that didn't have a choice but to be together.

"Do you have something to say?" Nanigas naman ako sa upuan ko ng bigla siyang mag salita. Naramdaman niya ata na nakatingin ako sa kaniya. I cleared my throat before answering.

"I already told you, I'm visiting a Sanctuary here" I said to him. Now I really doubt if he really read my messages.

"What are your criteria when you approved all these projects?" Dagdag na tanong niya. Napakunot naman ang noo ko, well he have a point in there. I really tried my best to pick the best projects because all of them looks good.

"Uh... I choose those projects that will not just benefit one person but the whole community. Doesn't matter if it's about people, animals or such" He wipe his mouth before crossing his arms and looks at me.

"What if they're fraud? Does it ever cross your mind" Napaisip naman ako. He is right. I-I didn't really think of that.

"Well, you should have told me that before going to the war and leaving all those works for me without saying what to do" I'm flustered by what he said. I try not to be loud. Nasa labas lang sina Zogofros at Eguzki.

"In short you didn't know" I closed my eyes. And put down the knife I'm holding.

"Your name will be associated with those projects. And if they fail, your name will be dragged with them" I look at him. What?

"I saw you with the people yesterday. It will be a shame if they see you differently" Now it's my turn to smile at him. Concern ba talaga siya doon o may iba pang rason.

"I'll take full responsibility if something happens. I think I'm done eating" Sagot ko tsaka tumayo, binuksan ko ang pinto sa labas habang naka-salubong sa akin sina Eguzki at Zogofros.

***

Pag alis ni Xyrill, inilabas naman ng Emperor ang tablet niya ng makita niyang tumatawag si Herra.

"I'm sorry to tell you Your Highness, but for some reason I can't track down the ID. But don't worry I'm still working on it" Mabilis na sabi nito sa Emperor.

"Put that thing on hold. I have something for you to do" Tumango naman si Herra sa utos ng Emperor.

"Find everything about Shelby Fairburne. And her animal sanctuary project. Check me if there are anomalies. Contact me immediately when you're done" Pagkatapos nun ay hinaba niya kagad ang call.