Double Tap: Decode [BXB]

CHAPTER 5

Teagan

Zion began jotting down the names of our group members on the sheet of paper I handed to him. I couldn't help but be surprised by how well he remembered all of them. Observing closely, I noticed that he paired the members, dividing the group into three. Beneath the names, he listed the various games and activities, numbering them from one to six. After compiling the activities, he assigned numbers to each pair, indicating their respective tasks. It was undeniably a well-thought-out plan, except for the fact that he paired himself with me."You could've partnered with someone else, you know," I pointed out, munching on some chips.

"I don't see any problem with that," he responded, still not meeting my gaze.

Of course, he didn't see the issue, but I certainly did. However, I chose not to argue, knowing that I'd likely end up on the losing side. Arguing with Zion often felt like an exercise in futility.

Zion then proceeded to explain the key points we needed to remember for organizing the activities, while I diligently noted down everything he said – including the timing, location, required materials, and more.

His knowledge and attention to detail impressed me. I had initially dismissed him as a privileged, indifferent individual, but I was clearly mistaken. He cared deeply about matters that he deemed worthy of his attention and didn't waste time on trivialities. He was serious and focused, traits I hadn't expected.

Glancing at his watch, Zion noted the time, prompting me to check mine as well. To my surprise, it was already ten fifty-six in the evening.

"Maybe you should head home; it's almost eleven," I suggested, gathering the empty chip bags and a can of Pepsi from the floor.

"I can't go home," he replied matter-of-factly, causing me to stop in my tracks, bewildered.

"What do you mean, 'you can't'?" I asked, furrowing my brows.

"Our subdivision gates close at nine," he explained casually, leaving me wide-eyed in disbelief.

"What?! Why didn't you say something earlier?" I scolded him, feeling a surge of frustration.

"You never asked," he retorted, his tone unapologetic.

I debated what to do. Should I let him spend the night here? In my apartment? Despite my annoyance, I reasoned that it wasn't entirely his fault. After all, this situation arose from our discussion earlier.

"Fine. You can stay here, but just for tonight," I relented, to which he simply nodded. He actually nodded! "You can sleep in my bed. I'll just..."

"No. I'm fine," he interjected. "You sleep in your bed. I can sleep anywhere," he insisted, settling himself on the couch's backrest.

"Are you sure?" I asked, seeking confirmation, to which he nodded again. "Well, if you say so," I conceded, proceeding to tidy up the mess.

After disposing of the trash, I retrieved a spare blanket from my closet. Approaching Zion, I was surprised to find him already asleep on the couch. He was right – he could sleep anywhere.

Carefully draping the blanket over him, I ensured he was comfortable without disturbing his slumber. Though begrudgingly, I couldn't leave him freezing on the couch. It was the least I could do after he had paid for our snacks earlier.

Satisfied that Zion was settled, I turned off the lights and made my way to my study table. Switching on the table lamp and my laptop, I decided to work on my fantasy novel, which I had been writing in my spare time.