BLEEDING SILVER

Chapter 7

On the way out of school vicinity, Alina asks, "Where are we off first?"

"To the supermarket," Atlas hums with joy.

They went to another couple of establishments to pick up some commodities before finally going at Atlas's place. As it was only around 5:30 that time, the skies are just starting to dim.

"So, the one with the tall walls is your house," Alina says as she inspects the enclosed brick walls from the driver's seat.

"Yep, let's go in," Atlas says as he picks a handful of bags from the back seat.

Alina follows him with a couple of groceries she carries. The front yard showcases a wide decent space of neatly cut Bermuda grass on both sides of a set of marbled walk path. Surprisingly, full-bloomed white bougainvillea trees were planted in systematic layers behind the surrounding tall walls which display a very nostalgic ambiance. The veranda is made up of marble elegance with Greek columns mixed with modern tinted panes perfecting the sight. In Alina's view, the huge house has low-key classy interiors.

The couple started with the birthday-themed displays then arranged the tables.

"Is there anything else left to do?" Alina asked, her sight still lingering on the transparent door that displays the pool on the backyard and a short set of wooden fence mounted a bit farther from it.

"Nope, all is well done," Atlas spoke with a smile. "Follow me in the kitchen, I'll make us snacks."

"That isn't necessary," Alina's voice trails off. She sits on the counter facing the modernized kitchen. This moment, Alina silently views Atlas's back as he prepares drinks. As if on impulse, she questions, "Have you ever been in the Southern borders?"

Atlas suddenly stops from moving and waits a couple of second before answering, "You see, my parents are humans."

Confused by his statement, Alina did not try to go with the topic, "So, where are your parents anyway?"

"They're at the North, on a business trip," he replied.

'There's way too much similarities to be called a coincidence', Alina thinks.

"Here you go," Atlas lays a strawberry milk shake and a set of fruits on a plate in front of her. He then sits in front of Alina with a warm coffee mug on his hand. "Thanks for helping out today," he says as he displays a genuinely pleased beam.

"Yeah, no trouble," Alina said as he sips her shake. "Mm," she reacts with a delighted expression, "is this your personal recipe?"

Atlas just smiled on the corner of his lips as he sips on his beverage. The talk resumed randomly.

"I'll be waiting for you later," Atlas sends off Alina with an expectant smile.