Ethereal Love: Hidden in the Stars || FreenBecky [Completed]

Chapter 9: Conflicting Emotions

"The term trying to forget someone is so awful because you'll never forget someone if you're trying to forget them." - Taylor Swift

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"Get up," Freen urged as I tumbled to the ground, reeling from her powerful punch.

It seemed she had neglected to mention the grueling training session that would follow our meal. Now, my body was a tapestry of pain and bruises, making it nearly impossible to regain my footing.

Freen was an unforgiving trainer, that much was clear.

Closing the distance between us, she yanked on my hair with an intensity that sent a shiver down my spine, causing a slight crack in my neck and an involuntary groan to escape my lips. Then, in an unexpected twist, she pressed her lips against mine as though the punches she had just thrown had never happened.

As her kiss lingered, I felt a surge of energy coursing through my veins. It was as if her touch had infused me with newfound strength, leaving me both perplexed and intrigued.

Wait, what was that?

"Stop gazing at me like that. I know I'm a good kisser," Freen remarked, motioning for me to rise.

I arched an eyebrow at her and rolled my eyes as I forced myself to stand.

"So, you go around healing other students with your kisses?" I asked, a tinge of irritation seeping into my voice.

"My kiss has the power to heal or harm, depending on my intentions. So, be grateful I'm using it to heal you," Freen retorted, rolling her eyes in exasperation. "And why do you sound like you're my girlfriend? My girlfriend wouldn't speak to me like that."

My heart sank at the mention of her girlfriend. Damn it, why did I have to feel this way?

"Your girlfriend?" I inquired, attempting to mask my disappointment. "I had no idea you were in a relationship." I chuckled awkwardly as I smoothed out the creases on my vest.

Freen regarded me with a hint of confusion. "Since when do I have to keep you updated on my personal life?"

I rolled my eyes and shook my head, trying to regain my focus. Cracking my neck, I assumed a defensive stance, preparing myself for her next attack. However, before I could react, a sudden kick from behind sent me stumbling to the ground.

As I struggled to regain my balance, Freen seized my shoulder, but before she could make a move, I summoned all my strength and swiftly flipped her, using her own momentum to throw her to the floor.

"Fine," she conceded, rising to her feet. "If you manage to wound me, I'll answer any of your questions. Is that motivation enough for you?" she offered.

"I don't have any questions," I replied, lunging toward her, only to have my fist effortlessly intercepted by her single hand. I nearly stumbled backward, but I held my ground. "However, I do have a request."

"What?" Freen inquired, releasing my hand.

"Let's eat again. I'm starving," I pouted, clutching my grumbling stomach, prompting an eye-roll from her.

Freen and I made our way to the cafeteria, accompanied by Heng and Saint. As usual, all eyes were on us, as I had become part of their inner circle.

This was all Gulf's fault. If only I had known earlier that he was using me as a substitute, I would never have heeded his advice to befriend Freen.

Freen motioned for me to take the seat next to her—a seat that had always remained unoccupied, even by Heng and Saint. I glanced at Saint, and as our eyes met, he raised an eyebrow inquisitively.