My Dear Annabelle

Chapter - 2 A Silent Cry For Freedom

(In College, 4 PM)

As the professor wrapped up the day's lecture, Yi turned to Lian and asked, "Hey, can I borrow your notes? I totally spaced out today."

Lian handed them over, saying, "You're welcome, but seriously, Yi, when are you going to start paying attention? We're in our final year now."

Yi chuckled and replied, "Good point, Lian. Since we're in our final year, why don't you just help us out for another year? You're always so on top of things."

Jade and Mai chimed in, praising Lian for his organizational skills and academic prowess.

Lian laughed and said, "What's gotten into you guys today?"

As they continued chatting, Yi asked Lian, "Hey, aren't you supposed to be at Kuea's school by now?"

Lian replied, "He's got extra classes now, so I'll head there later."

Mai asked, "So, any progress with Kuea? You've been brothers for ages, and we're all rooting for you."

Lian smiled and said, "Still the same, Mai. He sees me as just a big brother, and I don't want to rush him. I want him to feel comfortable around me."

Jade nodded understandingly and said, "That makes sense, Lian. But it's been 9 years now. Maybe it's time to take things to the next level?"

Lian shrugged and said, "I don't know, Jade. He's really introverted... 91% introverted, according to that online test we took. I don't want to push him out of his comfort zone."

Yi asked, "What's your score, then?"

Lian grinned mischievously and said, "I'm 9% introverted, which makes me 91% extroverted! I guess we balance each other out."

Mai laughed and said, "That's perfect, Lian! You two are meant to be. Kuea is your soulmate."

Lian blushed and smiled, saying, "Maybe... yeah, maybe you're right."

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(In School, 5:30 PM)

Kuea's mom had arranged for a private tutor, Jony, to help him excel in his final year of high school. Jony, Kuea's class teacher, greeted him warmly.

"Good evening, Kuea," Jony said with a smile.

"Good evening, sir," Kuea replied, showing respect.

"Before we dive into our lesson, let's review the topics I covered in class today," Jony suggested, and Kuea nodded.

A few hours passed, Jony wrapped up the session. "Alright, Kuea, that's all for today. I'll see you tomorrow."

"Thank you, sir," Kuea said.

___________________________________________

(In the School Parking lot)

Lian pulled up beside Kuea and asked, "How was your day?"

Kuea shrugged, looking exhausted. "It's fine, hia."

Lian nodded sympathetically. "Okay... It must have been a long day for you. Are you tired? Do you want any snacks?"

Kuea shook his head, his eyes drooping. "No, hia, I just want to sleep now."

Lian smiled understandingly. "Then sleep. I'll wake you later."

Kuea nodded, and Lian started the car. As they drove, Lian couldn't help but glance over at Kuea, who was dozing off.