The Ultimate Hunt

7.

Another day began, and I knew it was time to put my plan into motion. I couldn't waste any more time. Everything depended on small steps, and if I was careful enough, I could make it work. But first, I had to get Hanako to help me. He was trustworthy, at least as far as I could tell, and I needed someone like him on my side at least for now.

During breakfast, I spotted the perfect moment. Lydia and Peter hadn't shown up yet, which gave me some time alone with him. I shifted my chair a little closer to Hanako, lowering my voice just enough so no one else could overhear.

"So... I can assume you have some time to spare?" I asked casually. "Since we're, you know... stuck here for a bit."

He raised an eyebrow. "Yeah, I suppose. What's up?"

I hesitated for a second, then leaned in slightly. "Could you make something for me? Something that can record conversations or sounds?"

"You mean like a dictaphone?" he asked, tilting his head.

"Yeah, but with a small screen that shows the date when the recording was taken," 

Hanako paused, thinking for a moment. "That's a pretty specific request. Why do you need it?"

I avoided his gaze, shrugging like it was no big deal. "Just... to keep track of things. You never know what might come in handy later. You get it, right?"

"I do.. But that's gonna take some work. I'll need to scrounge around and see what parts we have here."

"How long do you think it'll take?" I asked, trying not to sound impatient.

"Maybe a day or two. Depends on what kind of stuff I can find," Hanako said, leaning back in his chair.

"So.. Is that a yes or no?"

He suddenly smiled. Uh oh. It's that dumb shit-eating grin of his. 

"Hm.. Maybe if you ask nicely,"

Oh my God.

I narrowed my eyes at him. "Really? You're going to make me beg for this?"

Hanako's grin widened. "Hey, if you want something, it doesn't hurt to ask nicely. It's just basic manners, you know?"

I groaned, slumping in my chair. Of course, he'd make it difficult. "Fine. Please, Hanako, will you make me the thing?" I forced the words out, trying to keep my voice from sounding too irritated.

"Look at me in the eye and say it again,"

I rolled my eyes and huffed. What are you, my dom? 

I glared at him, fully aware he was milking this for all it was worth. "You're enjoying this way too much."

Hanako shrugged, still wearing that infuriating grin. "I might be. But I'll get started once you say it properly."

I crossed my arms, exhaling through my nose. "Okay." I leaned in slightly, locking eyes with him, and with all the fake sweetness I could muster, I said, "Hanako, please help me."

He held my gaze for a moment before chuckling. "Alright, alright. That'll do. I'll get started on it soon."

"You're ridiculous," I muttered. Honestly, if he was going to help, I could deal with his antics.

At least he wasn't Adam. I shuddered at the thought. Hanako might be a pain, but Adam's manipulations were on a whole different level.

"Oh, and one more condition. I want you to go with me. It's not like you're busy either, right?"

"Sure," I said, sighing. "As long as it gets me what I want."

Hanako grinned wider. "Deal. It'll be more fun with company anyway." He said as he rested his check on his palm while his elbow was on the table.