Elite || Marhinki

•Chapter Twenty-One: Trip•

"I can't believe you're going to leave us for a whole week," David shook his head.

Joven nodded in agreement. "You're going to make me third-wheel him and Ian? I'll never forgive you for this."

"It's not like we have a choice," Mari smiled. "Besides, it's only going to be for a week. It's not like we'll be leaving you guys forever."

"But it's going to feel like it is," Joven whined.

Mari grabbed the side of Joven's face. "Darling, I'm flattered that you care about us so much, but get ahold of yourself."

We all laughed as Joven's face burned red. He yanked himself out of her grasp and stepped back to David, who promptly used him as an armrest despite the fact that he wasn't really tall enough to do so naturally.

"Well, have fun," David smiled. "Promise to give us details?"

"Agreed," I nodded. "They're going to have the stupidest outfits, aren't they?"

"They'll probably wear crushed-up diamonds as face powder," Mari joked. "Eyeshadow made of gold."

"Shoes made of crystal," I piped in.

"Hair dye made of emerald," David smiled. "Little girl's head will tilt to one side because of the weight of their platinum barrettes."

We all laughed at that one; even Joven. Seeing as he was from the District that was in charge of fashion and wasn't denying any of our statements wasn't a very good sign. Did Jewels really wear precious gems and metals as makeup? They might as well just rip up money and throw it on themselves if they were going to do that.

Mr. Lee Yang blew his whistle, which meant that the luggage had finally been moved onboard. We were standing in front of the train, ready to go. Morning workout had been skipped so everyone could say goodbye to us, which I was thankful for. The last thing I wanted was to get on the train soaked in sweat.

Mari and I hugged David and Joven goodbye before entering the train. It was different than the one that had taken us here, what felt like an eternity ago. This one was far smaller, with rose pink leather seats surrounding small tables with cups on them. A chandelier hung from the ceiling, which probably should've impressed me but just made me worried that it would fall. A few Blues lined the walls with pitchers in hand. Despite being here for over two months, I hadn't gotten used to the idea of Blues serving me. I doubt I ever would.

Mari slid into the seat closest to us, and I took the one opposite her. Immediately, a Blue rushed forwards and filled our cups. Before she had a chance to retreat back to the wall, I thanked her. I'd barely ever seen anyone look so shocked.

After a few seconds, a bell rang, and the sliding doors leading onto the train slid closed. The train lurched forwards. Mari and I waved to David and Joven until we descended belowground, blocking them with the bleak gray of the stone tunnel's walls.

Mari folded her arms and leaned against her seat with a sigh, not once tearing her eyes away from the window. I took a sip of my drink, which turned out to be lemonade, and looked around the train.

Noah, Olivia, and Shayne were sitting together, muttering under their breaths and glancing over at us everyone once and awhile. I caught them once, and gave them a smile, making them instantly bow their heads in embarrassment. By them, I meant Shayne and Olivia. Noah was just staring out the window, his mouth drawn in a scowl. The two of us weren't exactly the best of friends, but we were close enough that he wouldn't talk about me behind his back, no matter how much it would put him in the other's good books. I respected him for that.

Wes was sitting alone. He must've stolen a hologram box from our room, because he had one open in front of him. I would've invited him to sit with us, but he looked perfectly content exactly where he was.