Repulsive Beauty

Chapter 4: On Privacy

     Next time I woke, the sun was high in the sky, and I was alone. I lifted my head and propped myself on my elbows, assessing the surroundings. It was my room, and there were no signs of life. I managed to get myself up to sit on the edge of my bed. I can't really remember what happened last night before I passed out. Something about that man putting drugs in my drink? And Hisoka's breath in my ear. Was he really in my room earlier? Or was that a drug induced dream? I mean he obviously brought me back here, but did he stick around?

     I found the strength to stand, and started to walk to the kitchen for a drink. It's cold in here. I wrapped my arms around myself and gasped when I felt skin. Looking down I was only wearing my bra and panties. Jesus christ did he.? He wouldn't touch me like that would he.? I started to feel sick. There was a note, propped on the counter.

                                                                                  ~

                                                                    Water and rest.

                                         Oh, and no more drinking with strangers. ⭐-_-💧

                                                                              -His

                                                                                ~

     There was a glass of water with a few pills next to it. Pretty recognizably Advil, but frankly after last night I wasn't sure I wanted to take any chances with drinks or drugs. I got my own drink, and got Advil out of my bag and trashed the ones left out.

     The shower felt amazing. It was as cold as I could get it. My bruises and scuffs were thanking me already. I don't have another fight scheduled for a few months, so I'm not sure what to do with my time.

     I threw on some jean shorts and a black t-shirt, tied in a knot in front. My hair was still wet and would dry in messy, bedhead curls but I don't care. Honestly I'm kind of afraid to leave my room. Hisoka has been acting surprisingly kind since our fight but I can hear Machi's words ringing in my head. He's still dangerous. On the plus side, if I see Borato he's a dead man.

     I decided to watch a few low level fights to pass some time, and unwind. Two very young boys are climbing the ranks like nothing, they're really a different breed. The variety of fighters is amazing.

     I had a scheduled interview with The Hunter News Network this evening. I think they scheduled me in thinking I'd be speaking about my experience losing to Hisoka. I get the feeling it will turn out more entertaining than they had planned.

     Back in my room, I had to come up with a plan to look halfway decent for the camera.

     My face was still significantly swollen, the bruise leaching down my jaw. Luckily that was the only damage I sustained. It could have been so much worse.

     I artfully apply makeup to compensate for my bruising and swelling, and try to style my hair in a way that covers that side of my face a bit. I wore it straightened, aiming for a more serious and sharp look to oppose my contrastingly round face and soft features. It's already hard enough being a woman at this level. Plenty of men are very nice, but most definitely don't respect me the way they would if I was a man. Hence trying to downplay my femininity. I can't imagine proving myself any more than I've already done.

     "So Tess! Welcome to THNN, we're so honored to have you today for an interview!", squealed the very energetic host.

     The studio wasn't huge, there was limited seating and it was packed. The host and I sat in plush armchairs just barely facing one another, so the cameras would have a good shot. I tried not to let my anxiety get the better of me. I'm not one for being in front of crowds, and being the center of attention.