Secrets and the Love? "Ray x Oc"

4

P.O.V. Ayame

The realization that we might be carrying a transmitter, or that there could be one inside our bodies, didn't exactly improve the situation. If anything, it made things worse. I doubted we could ever manage to break out of here.

Norman and Emma seemed to be discussing the same subject. I glanced at Ray, who appeared to share my concerns. Mother had intentionally brought up this topic to remind us that she could always track us down. Perhaps she already harbored suspicions.

With a triumphant look, Mother led the way inside, holding a sweet little girl on her arm, followed by the group of children. Ray and I followed shortly after. Emma and Norman lingered behind. Ray exchanged a glance with me, silently conveying the realization that Mother was our adversary.

Once inside, Ray glanced briefly out the window.

"Come on, Ray," I said quietly. He looked at me, flashed a weak smile, and then left the room. I wanted to follow him, but he was already gone. So, I wandered through the corridors. Suddenly, I overheard Emma and Norman discussing their escape plans. Part of me felt hurt that they hadn't included me, but another part understood—I hadn't been forthcoming with them either. I pushed aside my mixed feelings and listened in.

"First, we need a rope. I have an idea where we can find one. Let's meet in the hallway tonight at ten," Norman said, about to leave. But before he could, Emma interjected, "Wait. If they're using transmitters, they might also have cameras or bugs installed, right?" She had a point. Given what we now knew about Grace Field House, it was entirely plausible.

"Don't worry. I've searched thoroughly and found nothing of the sort," Norman reassured Emma and me.

"When exactly?" Emma asked. Norman was meticulous; he didn't overlook anything.

"But we were careless. They're monitoring us not just through the house, but directly through our bodies, and Ayame is close to Ray. What if she's already told him everything? We haven't had a chance to talk to Ayame," Norman speculated as he and Emma walked away. I tried to discreetly eavesdrop on them, but all I caught was, "What if we've already been compromised?" before they disappeared.

Just as I was about to leave, Mother's nails dug into my shoulders, pulling me back. She gave me a sinister look.

"Were you at the gate yesterday?" Mother asked, locking eyes with me.

"Um, I'm not sure what you mean, Mother. I wasn't at the gate and didn't see anyone either," I replied, trying to sound convincing.

"Ah, really? Hm, very amusing," she said. Thinking the conversation was over, I attempted to leave, but she stopped me again.

"If you ever want my recommendation as a mother, just come to me. Anytime," she whispered in my ear. Thankfully, Ray intervened.

He approached us, looking slightly confused. Mother released my shoulder, and I quickly made my escape, with Ray following after me.

"What did she say to you? Are you alright? Do you need water? You look pale. Should I do something?" Ray bombarded me with questions. I reassured him, "Mother asked if I was at the gate. I said no and that I didn't see anyone. Apart from the shock, I'm fine. I don't need water, but thanks. And I probably look pale because Mother offered me the chance to become a mother."

Ray was taken aback. "Mother offered you to become a 'Mother'?" he repeated. I nodded, uncertain of what to make of the offer. What if we couldn't escape? Would I end up overseeing the demise of all the children?

Despite Mother's occasional displays of genuine happiness, her offer left me questioning her intentions. Ray took my hand and hurried us into the dining room to retrieve the bell.