GWA09E

Chapter 9. True Feelings.

Life returned to its course and without apparent novelty a couple of weeks passed. Roy's nightmares had receded and his fears were now focused on the beginning of practical classes. They also told the girls about this sisterhood affair. As the boy anticipated, Connie was delighted and even very excited. But Bertie did not seem very willing. Taking advantage of the fact that Cooan was rehearsing with the cheerleaders and that Roy was training with his team, it had to be Tom who talked to her during a lunch to try to persuade her to applicate herself. Even so, the girl was reluctant.

-I do not want to distract myself Tom .- She objected .- I have too much to study

Smiling, the boy replied visibly amused.

-I must admit it. Roy has nailed it." That's exactly what he told me you'd say!

Now it was Bertie who opened her eyes in surprise and then answered.

-So your friend is now a fortune-teller.  Well, I do not like those guys with magic glass balls. I've had too many bad experiences with them.

Tom did not want to ask about the meaning of that comment, although his look was significant enough for the girl to interpret his expression of puzzlement and she hastened to add.

-It's just foolishness. Really, I thank you. But I'm not interested ...

-Listen, Bertie. The Brotherhood is nothing sordid or sinister. It is a very prestigious association here. I thought the same as you did when I arrived. Then I realized that there were very few who could belong to her. And be sure that it is very rare that you have been proposed to enter. It's usually the other way around. It is the aspirant who must run and make her or his applicant.

He did not want to tell the girl who had been Roy, as a board member, who proposed them. What he did was plead.

-Connie is very excited, but I know it would not be the same for her if you're not by her side.

That made her interlocutor lower her gaze to reflect. After a few moments she tried to argue, almost as a final escape.

-We'll have the practices right away. I'm very nervous about how I'll do it ...

-Just for you to know - Said the boy .- It gives a very good image to belong to the Brotherhood. Even in the faculty of teachers they value it.

- What do you mean by that?-  Inquired the girl now without understanding. -

-People who belong to it are considered hard workers and sensible.- Tom explained .-

But now Bertie laughed, looking at the boy who gave him that surprised look. She immediately rivetted.

-And you expect me to believe that, knowing that Roy is in the Brotherhood?  Come on, Tom! If that lazy has been able to enter the thing does not have to be so select. Oh, okay! Surely he was admitted right away for being a good basketball player and for cheering the parties, but beyond that ... I do not know what merits he may have. Of course not the studies.

What Bertie did not expect was that his friend would take a more serious response.

-Do not judge him so severely. I assure you he's a great guy.

Now her mate varied her mocking expression for another one of strangeness, she wanted that Tom deepened more in that, nevertheless its interlocutor remained silent. Not wanting to show too much interest, the young woman added with a slight smile.

-You sure are a great boy. Someone who can be trusted ....

Now the one in question was in turn who sketched a shy smile to want to know with a tinge somewhat embarrassed in his voice ...

-That is what you think? Well, I mean your sister and you.

-Yes, of course, - Bertie agreed.

The girl was not so foolish as not to see the interest shown by that poor guy every time her sister's name came out in some conversation. And maybe if he insisted so much that she was part of that Brotherhood out of something related to Cooan. Surely he had told her before. She had to admit that since she had persuaded her to rebuild her life, both had gone hand in hand if anything. This could not be less. At last she allowed herself to be persuaded, smiling more broadly, she told her interlocutor.

-All right, I'll agree to apply. I do not want to leave my little sister alone.

The boy seemed to be encouraged to hear that. They finished eating while talking about other topics. Luckily, these demons seemed to have vanished for some days. However, as Bertie said, now was the hour of truth for all. It was time for the students to see how they would manage as teachers. The work was ordered by couples and they had to stop  seeing each other during the days that lasted. Except Beruche and Roy to whom, coincidences of the pairing,  they happened to be together. They had to take care of an elementary group. At first they were nervous, as it was natural they believed that it would not be easy to run a class full of children between six and seven years. Nevertheless after a few days both developed very well, gaining the affection of the children. The last day of practice they decided to take them to the field.

-Listen to me for a moment. - Roy asked as he approached his class at the end of the hour, and after a long moment of patient insistence got his attention. - Guys, since we've done a good job together we deserve a break, right?

-Yes! - chanted the little charmed. -

His teacher silenced the general hubbub with a gesture of his hands and continued enthusiastically.

-Miss Malinde and I are going to take you and your kind of excursion to a picnic area near the city! You must behave well and not leave the group.

Bertie also communicated the news to the boys of her class with equal reaction by the little ones. Of course everything had worked out very well so far. The only problems she had had in her practices were this style. "Miss, miss, may I go to the bathroom? ... or" Miss, Kevin has taken my scarf ", or" Can you tie my shoe? But fortunately nothing more serious. Now she worried a little, she had resisted at first but then he ended up convincing her. Her practice partner claimed that it would be nice for the children to have a picnic and she did not dislike the idea either. She was only concerned about safety. So when they finished classes, they spoke in the office reserved for teachers.

-Do you think it's a good idea to take them there? - She asked a little uneasily. - We have done very well so far and I do not want any mishap to happen. As an obligatory part to finish the practices that to make an exit with our classes already seemed to me complicated. My sister and her partner are going to take their group to a museum and Tom will go with his to see a film for what they have told me, but the field ... - She objected with a worried look. -

- Easy, sure nothing will happen. In addition, we have come out of things worse than a group of garish children. Don´t you think so? ... Let's go Little cube ... What could happen to us? - laughed his companion with evident self-confidence. -

- Yes - had to grant Beruche by encouraging herself after hearing the optimism and the desire to carry out the adventure that his partner showed. The truth is that it was inevitable not to be carried away by that torrent of enthusiasm, she smiled more convinced finally declaring. - You're right. We will go camping!

So everyone got on the school bus to the campsite. Roy wore a guitar that accompanied the children with the typical travel songs, this surprised Beruche. She did not know that the boy had that ability, and she had to admit that he did not do anything wrong. However, he asked the driver to stop when he reached the edge of a curve, claiming that some children wanted to pee. Bertie was surprised because, because of what the driver had said, there was little to arrive, surely it was due to causes of force majeure for the little ones.

- Some of them cannot take any more. - Roy said, confessing not without flushing. - And I must say that I do not either.

-You are a case! - She smiled, shaking her head in an attitude of "what am I going to do with you." But she joined the initiative and asked the girls of both classes if any wished to do the same.

She got a couple of volunteers who accompanied her downstairs. Roy had four little ones he waited until they all finished, immediately asking Bertie without too much embarrassment as he pulled a small bottle of water from the backpack he was carrying.

-Would you mind bringing them in while I finish it myself and wash up a little?

Of course, she could not say no and waited patiently for all the little ones to get in, then got off the coach thinking Roy was taking too long and she could see him in the distance. He was with one knee on the ground and seemed to leave something on the asphalt, on the side of the road. Beruche stared, surprised to discover that the boy had left a small bouquet of flowers there, tucked into that little bottle. He still remained crouched a few more seconds.

-He seems to be praying, - she said, astonished, not understanding why her companion did this, she had never given him the impression that he was religious.-

Anyway, judging something very personal, she did not want to interrupt him and got into the coach. She was distracted enough to place order among the racket mounted by the kids and she did not realize that Roy had already returned.

- Sorry for the delay, we can go now. - He said with a smile. –

They gave the driver the indication that he could continue and they soon covered the last kilometers that separated them from the destination. Before descending both gave the last instructions to the children. Beruche took care of it with a brief and friendly speech aided of the microphone of the coach.

- Remember boys and girls. All together and without leaving the group. Anyone who needs anything to address Professor Malden or me. It is understood?

There were many screams of "yeah" and some shy nods of head accompanied by spicy smiles of the style. “In your dreams”. Nevertheless, the latter became more unnoticed and the satisfied "professors" allowed the descent of that numerous group.

Once they arrived they spent the afternoon between didactic explanations of both such as. "Learning to care for nature and animals, be clean with the environment", etc. Then hide-and-seek games, "I run from the potato" and some gymnastic demonstrations of Roy, (who intended more to impress Bertie than the children). For example, doing dominated with a couple of children hanging around the neck while one of them counted them. Later, with his Spanish guitar he played something for the children. At the end and when they were about to turn, one of the little ones forgot to follow the instructions, straying from the group. The teachers, alarmed, decided to send the other children back with another colleague of their university who called from the cabin of a nearby gas station while they both  went to searching for him, although before his partner arrived and the bus left Roy offered to his anguished companion.

-I can stay. You return with the others as soon as Michael arrives, Little cube.

-No, nothing at all. - She rejoined that already was walking towards the zone of trees where they had been before. – He is from my class ... - Added as she moved away. - It is my responsibility.

-Wait a minute, - he said as he hurried after her to find out something. - Bertie, you do not have to go too far ...

But she did not seem to hear him. She had already entered the wooded area. Roy gestured to the driver.

-Wait a few minutes, if we have not returned, leave as soon as our partner arrives. The kids should get to school at their time.

The driver agreed, Roy, calmed in that regard, hastened to follow Bertie. It would soon be dusk, and that made the vision quite difficult, since the sun was low on the horizon. The practicing teachers were becoming very worried because the child did not show up.

-Oh Heaven! - Said Beruche visibly distressed. - And if something happens to that child?

- Do not worry. -Roy was trying to calm her down, looking serene and unshakeable, despite seeming to tremble at the thought. - We'll find him before anything happens to him.

But precisely the sun dazzled because they were heading west. As a result of her uneasiness to find the child as she advanced along uneven terrain, Beruche was ahead, although she did not see well the road that ran and stumbled on the edge of a kind of gulf. She slipped a scream.

-Bertie! - Roy exclaimed as he reached that place.

With visible fear the boy saw that his companion had fallen into a large hole. The girl was on the floor ache. He did not think it, and, after holding the guitar to his back, through that small gap, very carefully. Yet he did not want to evidence those skills he had acquired so recently. Although everything depended on the condition of the girl.

-Are you okay? - He wanted to know.-

-The ankle, it hurts me a lot, - she complained, clenching her teeth.-

Roy was able to examine it. He knew enough of injuries from his basketball practice to realize that Bertie had a good sprain. Fortunately she had nothing broken but that would prevent her from walking. At least for several days. Immediately he tightened the laces of the shoe and tried to bandage it with a handkerchief that he carried, while the girl drowned a moan.

-I'm sorry, Cubito, you've got a good twist.- You will not be able to walk. We'll have to wait until they get us out ... - He said with patient.-

She did not answer, she seemed to be frightened. Both stood leaning against the wall of the hole with the only light of the sun's sparks and a small flashlight, using Roy's guitar as an improvised table. The boy found a stone large enough so that his partner could support the affected leg and not step on the floor with that battered ankle. Then the young man looked up and sighed. This was undoubtedly much deeper than it seemed.

-Are you all right, Bertie? - He asked, worried about his companion's condition.-

-Yes. - She managed to mumble weakly at last.

Fortunately, apart from that sprain, the girl had not seriously hurt herself beyond a few scratches. The boy looked up and weighed the situation, he could not cling to the walls to climb either. He could have levitated just as he had recently learned to do, but he did not want to expose himself. Of course he did not plan that, but it might even be a welcome coincidence. His friend Michael would soon come and tell them that the child was safe. At least he hoped because he might not be there. But he left his thoughts when his companion inquired with a worried groan as she glimpsed the height to which the outside was, at least about ten feet above them.

-Oh no! What will we do now? Because of me, we'll have to wait for them to come and get us ...

-Do not worry, it will not be long,- he said reassuringly, adding with intent to calm her down. - But during the day it is easy to see us and know that we were in this area.

-I do not worry about us,- Bertie could tell, trying to keep her voice from breaking with sobs, as she looked helplessly out of the pit. - It's more for that kid who's lost out there!

She tried to control herself, but she was very scared. What if anything happened to that child? They would be responsible. That could cost them dearly. But above all and beyond the consequences for her career, it was that little one who was in danger and she and her sisters had vowed never to endanger the safety of a child again. Not after what they tried to do against poor Chibiusa! Tears slipped and she was about to collapse. But she did not want to do it in front of him. But Beruche could not prevent her appearance of seriousness and cool calm from collapsing. Roy noticed her efforts and came to her aid.

-Hey! - He encouraged her to hold her so she could hide her face against his chest and not have to suffer before his eyes. -Quiet little cub, he will surely have been found. You will see! At this point he will be at home inside his bed and we here worrying about nothing.

- I hope you are right. - she whispered, adding with uneasiness and without ceasing to reproach herself. - But that boy was from my group. It was my fault for losing sight of him!

- No, in any case it has been mine to insist on bringing them here. You were right, it was risky, but I'm an idiot without cure. Forgive me, - he whispered in his sweetest voice. -

She could stop crying and pulled away from him, drawing a faint smile of thankful relief for him. He wanted free her from responsibility. Although Bertie could not accept that. She was at least as guilty as he was. Anyway, better not to think about that now. As soon as there was light, the sun was about to set and there was a slight glow that made her shudder. The girl started to shiver, the afternoon was cool and she only wore a short-sleeved shirt. It was her only protection against the cold, because, with the nerves of the hasty search, she did not take her sweater.

- You're shivering. Are you cold? - He was interested in taking off his jacket from the university and putting it on her shoulders. His partner was big, the jacket covered Bertie almost to her knees. - Here, this will shelter you. - He offered her and carefully he wrapping her in that garment. -

- But you're going to freeze yourself. - She resisted accepting, even though she was really cold. -

- Do not worry about me, I went out at night with less clothes. - He smiled nonchalantly adding humorously. - You are the weirdest cube I've ever seen, one that does not want to be cold, ha, ha, ha!

She shared the smile, this Roy was a case! And she was sure that he would have been really in a worst scenario than this, better not to ask why or in what situation ... and as for the cubit. If only he knew how she had enjoyed the cold before!

-Thank you, tell me one thing - she asked then with her blue eyes staring at him once tears had gone. - How is it that someone like you study this subject?  I want to say that you do not care much about looking after children ... do not you think?

- You would be surprised if I told you that I love children, well and also some teachers ha, ha. - He looked with a knowing expression at Beruche and added jocularly. - Do you know that if they delay in finding us we will have to resort to cannibalism? Huumm! - he laughed with his own joke and finished it with a sneer. - I ask for one of your thighs.

-Do not be a fool Roy! I'm trying to have a serious conversation with you, - her interlocutor reproached him, though with a half-smile grateful for those attempts to raise her morale. -

-Sorry, - he said seriously. - But what I have told you is true. The children inspire me a lot. I know I do not look as that was true, I do the thug a lot and stuff. But I do not like to show how I really am to people.

- But why not? - inquired the girl with a face of surprise - it is not bad to show your feelings!

- Look who's talking! - He answered with amused reproach. -

- Yes, you're right. - She had to admit lowering her head, blushing and confessing in turn. - Many times I'm not honest with my own feelings, not even with my sisters. Or even with myself.

-People are not honest, normally, Bertie. - He declared with surprising reflective tone, even paternal to sentence - and if you try to be very much, then take advantage of you. I only risk being that way with the people I trust and they are few. Tom, my team friends. Connie and you.

-Why did not you tell me this before? - She asked, looking at him now in surprise, since this Roy was something other than what she was accustomed to seeing. –

-When you know someone well,- he said quietly. - There are things you do not need to tell him, or things he should tell you, that is guessed, by the look, by the way of being.

-I also have trouble trusting people, - she admitted. - I only  trust my sisters and some very special friends that I have in Japan and sometimes, I think I am not sincere not even with them.

-Your sister and you are very close, are not you? - Roy asked sharply. -

- Yes, a lot. - She had to admit she explained to her interlocutor. -You see, we are the smallest of four sisters, with the eldest we get along very well but we two are more related I suppose.

-Of course, it will be due to the age,- he guessed. - Are they much older than you, perhaps?

- No, that goes by our characters, we are different. You do not have brothers, Roy? - Beruche asked, changing the subject in the thread of that. -

- I'm not an only child...

-Where are you from? - She wanted to know, as she had not thought so far, assuming she was from the area. - From New York?

-Do not. Actually I'm from Los Angeles, - he replied looking up at the sky. - But my parents moved to New York when I was very young. It could almost be said that I grew up on the streets of the city. We moved house a couple of times. Then when I finished high school, they offered to enroll me in this university.

- I thought you were here for a sports scholarship. - She was surprised. -

- No ... - he said with a half-smile that seemed quite nostalgic - it was my parents who encouraged me to study at the Golden. They made me serious about being someone in life. They paid the tuition with their savings ...

- I'd like to meet your mother, she must be the only woman who has been able to achieve that from you! -Ha, ha, - Laugh Beruche, but soon she did not do it since Roy did not do it with her, rather he had a dull, sad look when he replied in a low voice. -

- I wish you could have met them. But they died in a traffic accident shortly after I entered the Golden, they left a curve a few kilometers from this site. - He replied with a frown on his face. -

She froze, felt herself screwed all the way to the bottom. Even more than in its fall to that hole! Now she understood the detail of the flowers. He prayed for them! She shuddered with sorrow, wanting the earth to swallow her in that moment, again! Although now in a metaphorical sense. She also remembered that situation, just when he threw her into the pool and how she questioned the education that his parents should give him. She was now aware of how the boy's face paled. The poor girl wanted to say a lot of things to apologize for her comment, but it only occurred to her to whisper very embarrassed.

- I am sorry. I should not have told you that, I've been stupid, sorry.

- No, it's not your fault. - He kindly stated. -You did not know, I do not like to talk too much about my life. Very few companions know it. And asked Tommy not to tell it...

To the memory of the young woman came that expression of Tom, when she accused his friend of irresponsible. That boy's answer was that she did not judge his friend so severely. Now she was beginning to understand. Which made her feel even worse. And what's more, she could put herself perfectly in his place. She knew what it was like to lose her own parents. Although due to other circumstances. She left those thoughts when her interlocutor in the meantime added.

- But believe me, you would have liked them. You're a very responsible girl ...

-I think I have judged you very harshly,- admitted the girl adding with a certain guilty tone. - I thought you were just a smug asshole who only chased the girls and lived for basketball.

-Man, thank you very much, cubito! I've been told nice things, but none like this to apologize,- Roy smirked with amused sarcasm, trying to get past the previous topic. –

-No, well. I didn´t mean that. - She corrected immediately, cursing again for such a lack of tact, though she smiled another smile at the friendly reply of her companion. - Now I see that it is not quite like that. But recognize that you make it very difficult. Why do not you act more according to who you are? -She came to scold him gently. -

- It is the image that I want to show. - Answered his interlocutor sitting with his back against the wall of the hole. - That's more difficult for anyone to hurt you and make me more calm. - He drew in a long breath, exhaling slowly afterwards, as if gathering strength to dare to continue. He did it with his best tone of sincerity and confidence. - You see Bertie, when my parents died, I was devastated. They had been the most wonderful people in the world to me, the only ones, and their loss sank me. I had to fight a lot to overcome it and luckily, I had the help of a good friend. He was this way and he infected me. He was my mentor in college and he taught me a lot of things. Also thanks to him I entered the Brotherhood. That was before Tommy came. Then ... yes, I started to behave in a more crazy, even stupid way. I suppose it was the defense I took to move on, like a protective breastplate.

Beruche listened attentively and filled with compassion, for the first time she understood. She thought of her own case again. The same thing had happened to her, albeit in somewhat different circumstances. She and her sisters were separated from their parents being very young girls. They entered to serve under the orders of King Coraion, the father of Prince Diamond. They grew up among the intrigues of the Wiseman and the respective personalities so superficial that they forged were a defensive medium against the lack of paternal and maternal love that they suffered. Then, when the energy of the black crystal stained their souls, there was no turning back in that wheel. Just the memory of feelings almost forgotten, buried inside. Fortunately the sailors were there to free them from that. But again she left her thoughts to one side and continued to attend to Roy who added in both.

- This way I am the one who chooses the moment to act. Well, except for people that are always on my tracks.

-You mean the girls at the College? - Bertie asked, her eyes narrowed with barely concealed interest. -

- Yeah, sure, those kind of girls. I do not like being chased like a trophy.

-Do you mean even Melanie? - Beruche's voice rang with a little tinkle, trying to keep the boy from avoiding the bad memories.... Well, not that I mind much, of course. -She tried to hide the attention she had put in her previous question. -

- Melanie and I were dating together last year, but it was not a conventional relationship, rather when we fancied it. For a while I thought she might be different, but she was not. I've had enough of that, I want to stabilize my life and she's the kind of girl who does not accept a no. She wants to show that she is able to get any guy who crosses her path and have him by her side whenever she wants. I do not want to hurt her, I appreciate her a lot because deep down she's a good girl, but I do not know what to do to get rid of her.

-Why do not you tell her clearly? - Beruche advised cautiously. - You should have  trust for that, I think that is the basis of a relationship ...

-I know,- Roy admitted thoughtfully to object. - But it's not Melanie's style, nor it could be mine with her. She's not the kind of girl I can get through. It's hard to explain, it happens to me with most of the women I go out with. I cannot communicate with them as much as I would like ...

-You may never have tried, - Beruche said gently. -

- It may be, but I'm not as vane as people think. I like women, it's true! - He acknowledged, shrugging his shoulders to defend himself immediately. - But I have never treated them as mere objects. Rather it was the opposite, many of them only went out with me to be well considered or out of curiosity. In fact, there was only one girl that I really loved. - He finished with a nostalgic confession. -

Bertie looked at him curiously and surprised. So Roy also had an old relationship that could be called serious.

-Only one? - She asked in disbelief. -

-When I was a kid, I'd barely be fifteen or sixteen. - He revealed him with more care. - She was an older woman, she would be about thirty and she would give something away, I do not know, a strange halo that attracted me. But I was just a kid ...

-She did not take you seriously, perhaps? - She wanted to know. -

-On the contrary, she always treated me with great consideration, she seemed to want to protect me. - Roy said, trying to choose the words. - She would look at me more like a little brother than something else. I will never forget what she said to me when I last saw her. - Beruche watched him anxiously to hear him tell it, and she did not ask. Then Roy said. - We met at night when I came home and she said goodbye, the next day she was going to live in another city as she told me and I confess my love to her. It was the only time she kissed me. - He smiled as he remembered adding. - She looked into my eyes, her eyes were green and deep. She told me something like that. "Roy, it's not me that's meant for you. Believe me, when you see her you will recognize her. You will know who your princess is. " Of course then I did not believe it. I thought it was a simple excuse or that she was trying to cheer me up so I did not feel bad. But now it seems to me that she knew very well what she was saying.

-And you have not seen her again? - Bertie inquired, getting carried away by curiosity and inexplicable anguish at this, not daring to ask if he had already found that "princess."

Roy shook his head slowly. And he explained.

- Since then I went out with many girls, maybe I was looking for the one she promised me. But I have not been able to find anyone that fill me. Most, as I have already told you, were attracted to me or curious to check the gossip that others had told about me. In fact none of them mattered to me the way she did. Not even Melanie. - He finished with a sincere tone. -

Bertie listened to him in surprise. That boy did not really look the same, it was as if in that pit he had descended into the depths of his soul and everything buried in it emerged.

-I would never date with anyone simply out of curiosity, - she declared. - I have to perceive certain qualities in that person. Goodness, sincerity, somebody who understands and cares for me ....

And it certainly was. Bertie had never had that kind of relationship. In fact she never cared. As a child she could not think of such things and grew apart from any possibility of doing so. For many years, the only models of man she had in view were the princes Diamond and Sapphire. They were attractive, but she never thought of them, they were simply unreachable to her or her sisters. They were also older. And the closest, Rubeus, always inspired her too much respect, or why not say it ?, fear. Despite his appearance of kindness. Now, after all these years, she came to understand the suffering and frustration of her sister Petz towards men. Her only love was Sapphire, the unaffordable prince only worried about the kingdom and his older brother. And when it finally seemed that he corresponded, he was murdered in such a tragic way. And she also valued the pain of Cooan to be carried away by a youthful passion, fruit of the dazzling personality of Rubeus. Her sisters' hearts had broken and she did not want to suffer the same fate. Karaberasu was different, she really did not know anything about her sister's intimate life in that regard, but despite being more active than herself and the others, she was not even aware she was in love with anyone. Although she did know that she went out with several men in Nemesis, including Rubeus, if she remembered correctly. Then it was her companion who took her out of those memories when she asked.

- And you? Do you have someone waiting for you in Japan?

-Me? - The girl pointed at herself with the palm of her hand open on her chest. - No, - she admitted with a sigh. - I do not have anyone there. I think for this I should find someone special. With the qualities I've told you. And also he must be a gentleman and be always willing to correspond and never deceive me.

-Oh, ha! - Roy laughed rather enthusiastically in the line of her earlier comment. - Do not be angry, Bertie, I'm not laughing at you! - He clarified not wishing to offend her. - It seems to me something so difficult to find. You are a very good girl and you certainly deserve someone who can give you all that. But I do not know anyone who is capable of meeting these qualities in our university, not even the whole world! , You describe perfection. Trust me, I know.

-What about Tom? - she suggested contending the moment and asserting convinced. - I think it brings all those things together, I think he's a great guy.

-Tommy? - Roy repeated the name visibly surprised. - Well, yes, - he conceded, trying to regain a more indifferent tone of voice, for though he did not know why, his heart had turned up and down. Could Bertie be in love with his friend and not have unveiled it? Although he overcame that suspicion and added with humor and an undisguised estimate. - He really is, I've never met a guy like him. They could beatify him just for what he had to endure because of me last year.

- You appreciate him a lot. And he to you too. - Said the girl with a broad smile. - That shows when you're both together ...

-He's my best friend, - Roy acknowledged, - the only one I can talk to about the things that really worry me. Well, so far he was the only one. You have borne me a lot too. What's more, I've never told him about Kelly.

-Kelly was that girl? - Bertie asked with a smile. -

-Yes. That was her name. - He corroborated with a sigh of nostalgia to finish with another of lament. - It's been a long time since I've said her name again, and now I'm thinking about everything I've been up against since you arrived, I wish I had not!

-Do not worry about that, I've forgotten!  - Beruche river glad to easy the conversation a little, since she felt like an intruder in those memories of his friend. - Although some things have cost me dear to overcome. - She added with feigned reproof. -

-You are a saint! - Roy smiled. - And a very innocent girl, I say it in the best sense.- Added with all speed, sentencing. - You and your sister Connie are two little angels. Such ways. LOL! Unfortunately, you have fallen among a group of thugs here in the Golden. We have scandalize you.

- Hey, hey, hey ... do not believe it! - she countered with a mischievous smile. - We have not always been so good ... if you had met us a few years ago you would not think the same as now. - She added trying to prevent a wave of guilt invaded her last words. -

-When were you bad? - Smiled the boy, guessing in disbelief. I suppose in the elementary school, you would pull of the pigtails of your sister...

-Let's just say something else,- she said diffusely. - But thanks to good friends,- she thought of Ami and the rest of the sailors and sigh, - we discovered that we were on the wrong path. And that the world is a wonderful place if you know how to value it. -She looked up to the sky and before Roy asked more, she subtly changed the subject. - Soon it will be night, surely here it will look beautiful !, without light we can distinguish all the stars in the sky. I hope that child is already in his house by then. - She finished with another sigh returning to her previous concern. -

Roy was silent for a moment. Now he felt very guilty. All this was prepared to be left alone with Bertie. As if it were a camouflaged appointment. In that field, Michael should have gone back to the agreed place to tell them that the child was safe at home. However, her companion, frightened had gone to find that child and she had made everything go to pieces. Or maybe not. He certainly would not have expected to have such a sincere conversation. It had done him a lot of good. That girl was really very special and he started wishing things between them were different. This was not going to be an attempt to have fun for a night. But now he had to worry more about the situation they were in. For the moment they could do nothing but wait. He decided to try to encourage his partner.

-How's your ankle?

-A little better, thanks.- She smiled slightly.-

The boy inspected it. It was enflamed but at least it did not seem to get any worse.

-Au! - She moaned as soon as she felt the touch. -

-I'm sorry. - He apologized immediately. -

-Do not worry, - said the girl. - I thank you for helping me ...

-It is the natural thing. We knights have to go to the help of the ladies in trouble. - He smiled, causing her to laugh too with that musicality of hers. -

It certainly was much better this way. Roy did not know why, but every time he heard her laugh in that clean, singing way, something in him brightened. He took his guitar and motioned for the girl to approach, she seemed to hesitate, but he reassured her saying in a really honest tone.

- Do not worry, I do not try to use any trick of mine.

- I already know it. - Admitted the girl sitting next to him with that foot up, to confess in turn not without some surprise. - The truth is that I feel safe with you. It's a feeling that I cannot explain, what I did not imagine was that you knew how to play the guitar.

- You know how Tom and I really became friends? ... - Beruche shook her head - it was in a song contest and he won me, what a guy! , I was impressed. He is a boy full of talent, although he seems so  shy at times and has difficulty opening up until he has confidence with someone. But once you've done it, the Kansas peasant is the best friend you could ever wish for. Like a brother!

The girl smiled, knew it or not, his interlocutor was exactly the same way. Although for the moment she would keep that opinion to herself. What she did was smile and declare pleasantly surprised.

-I did not know you could sing, too.

- Tom is very good and I think I do not do too bad, listen. At least we will entertain ourselves. –

And to the surprise and the curiosity of Beruche, Roy began to play and for a long time he performed some songs of his favorite groups. She listened absorbedly as she curled up beside him, almost without realizing her head on his shoulder. And in the meantime he sang in a soft, warm tone that filled her completely with a feeling she could not define with words. Especially when one of these songs seemed to be dedicated to her.

When your heart's in someone else's hands
Monkey see and monkey do
Their wish is your command
Not to blame
Everyone's the same

All you do is love and love is all you do
I should know by now the way I fought for you
You're not to blame, everyone's the same

I know you think that you're safe
Mister
Harmless deception
That keeps love at bay
It's the ones who resist that we most want to kiss
Wouldn't you say?

Cowboys and angels
They all have the time for you
Why should I imagine that I'd be a find for you
Why should I imagine
That I'd have something to say

But that scar on your face
That beautiful face of yours
In your heart there's a trace
Of someone before

When your heart's in someone else's plans
Things you say and things you do
That they don't understand
You're not to shame
Always ends the same

You can call it love but I don't think it's true
You should know by now
I'm not the boy for you
You're not to blame
Always ends the same

I know you think that you're safe
Sister
Harmless affection that keeps things this way
It's the ones who persist for the sake of a kiss
Who will pay and pay

Cowboys and angels
They all have the shine for you
Why should I imagine that I was designed for you
Why should I believe
That you would stay

But that scar on your face
That beautiful face of yours
Don't you think that I'd know
They've hurt you, before

Take this man to your place
Maybe his hands can help you forget
Please be stronger than your past
The future may still give you a chance
The future, the future, not the past

That scar on your face
That beautiful face of yours
Don't you think that I know
They hurt you before

(Cowboys and Angels George Michael, author credit)

 And as the chords of the guitar ended, the sun described the bow toward the horizon and the light of the hole gradually fading away, leaving its last reflection caught in the hair of her. So they sat for a while in silence, leaning on each other. After a few minutes the two fell asleep in exhaustion. Both dreamed of places that were familiar but could not remember. She still had in her mind those last words of the song that Roy had sung to her ...

- Be stronger than your past, the future gives you another chance ...

Bertie dreamed of those moments after her purification. When still confused, but happy, she only smiled at the joyous faces of her sister Cooan and the warriors. At last, that kind of euphoria waned. Little by little reality became more prevalent. She watched as if she had come out of a kind of trance. However, the shame and the guilt made their way now. More when it was Ami herself who approached her and asked.

- How are you?

She could hardly look into her face and mutter.

-I'm sorry ... I do not know what to say ... I'm very ashamed.

-Come on, Bertierite.- Said her own sister who kept a protective arm on the girl's shoulders.- It's normal, I know how you feel. The same thing happened to me. Now that we are human and we have rid ourselves of the dark energy, the feelings of guilt for what we did, assault us.

-I do not know how to thank you all.- She could respond visibly in a hurry. To add surprised, as she began to tremble.- I'm cold! I've never had ...

-Let's get out of this place. - Rei intervened.

The girls did, after reassuring the owner of the building and telling him that everything had been due to a breakdown in the cameras' circuits, they left. The two sisters went together, Bertie did not want to let go of Kermesite's hand. She asked her to call her Cooan. Meanwhile it was getting dark. It was time to go home, but of course. Beruche remembered that she had nowhere else to go ... she even thought of finding shelter even in the street, but her new friends immediately removed that idea from her head.

-My grandfather and Yuuichirou are already in the Sanctuary. Although I share my room with Cooan, but no one else can.

-Do not worry, Rei. We'll be able to find us something. - Bertie's younger sister reassured her. -

-No way! The newly purified girl protested. -You need not bother because of me. - I'll manage. Please, Sailor Mars, I beg you, continue to take care of my sister.

-How can you say that? - Cooan answered - I will not leave you alone.

This seemed an unsolvable dilemma. At least until Ami intervened commenting.

-If you do not mind Bertierite, you can come with me tonight. Until you and Cooan find something. In my house there is room. My mother is not going to be here these days. She has a medical congress.

The alluded one looked at her with disbelief, and even emotion, and she could barely mumble.

-After what I've done to you ...

-That was another totally different woman,- said her interlocutor, aserting with a friendly smile. - You are my friend.

Her own little sister smiled her encouragingly and nodded weakly, confirming her words. Perhaps Cooan thought it would do her good to relate to other people to begin adjusting to that new life. So that was settled. After a while, the group dissolved. Each one went by her side. Bertie accompanied Ami. She told her that her last name was Mizuno. Of course it could not be more appropriate. (Of the water). After taking the bus. (Her new friend had to pay the two tickets) arrived at the sailor's apartment in about twenty minutes. It was not too big but it was cozy and functional. However, Bertierite was struck by the amount of books Ami had.

-Many of my mother's. I would like to be a doctor like her. - Her hostess commented. -

-Well ... that's a very nice thing. Surely you will. - She could say something hurried her interlocutor.-

-What would you like to do?- Ami asked.-

Her companion sighed. That was a very good question. So good she had no answer. She could hardly say.

-I have no perspective in mind. Maybe I can work with my sister. I like cosmetics. Although that did not just fill me. You know ... Now I realize how empty I've been. All my life I was raised to serve and obey. I always had some directive or order to follow. A mission ... Now I'm confused. Even scared ... I feel lost.

-Don´t be - Her interlocutor encouraged her putting a friendly hand on her shoulder. - Give time to the time. At first it will cost you to adapt, but surely you will.

-Since I was a kid, I like playing chess. I did not lie to you about that. I enjoyed our game. And I also loved reading.

-You're very smart,-  Ami said. - Who knows. Have you considered studying?

-It would be wonderful, - retorted Beruche, with a renewed optimism in her tone, which she then moderated to declare. - Although I would not know what.

-You could start by studying with me.-  Soon I will have to prepare my exams. And you could use some practice ... and I could use somebody to help me. - Ami proposed with joviality to ask. - What do you think?

The woman smiled sharply and nodded. Although something was now empty, but in this case it was her stomach ... Ami seemed to guess when she proposed.

-Are you hungry Bertierite? I think I have some misoshiru left.

-Yes. Thank you very much. - admitted the girl who, more relaxed asked.- Call me Beruche ... or better yet, Bertie, please. That's what my sisters called me.

But as she remembered that, her face darkened. Her friend was quick to cheer her up by asserting her with absolute force.

-You'll see how in the end you'll all be together again.- Surely your sisters will realize the truth. As you and Cooan did.

Her companion nodded hopefully. Why not? If she and her younger sister had been able to change, it was possible that the older ones did it as well. At the moment her hostess suggested cheerfully.

-Take it easy, step by step. Come on, let's have dinner!

And after heating the soup of miso, the two eagerly ate it, they were hungry of course. When they finished, they chatted a little more. Ami commented.

-Tomorrow afternoon we will go to Hikawa Shrine, to help Rei with the autumn cleaning and make a barbecue. I hope you join us.

-I'll be glad! - Bertie said. However, she was tired too. -

Ami seemed to be in the same condition. So the sailor got up and cleaned the table. She put the dishes and other cutlery in the dishwasher and told her friend to follow her to explain.

-Look, you'll sleep in my bed. I'll do it on my mother's.

The alluded looked at her and she could not help but get touched. That girl had been her mortal enemy only a few hours ago. As a member of the Black Moon clan she had tried to kill the one she knew for Sailor Mercury along with her other companions. And now that girl, Ami, far from taking revenge, was unreservedly offering her the hospitality of her house, her food and even her bed. To her! A complete stranger!

-I do not know how I could pay you everything you're doing for me. - Stammered an overwhelmed Bertie letting the tears fall on her cheeks .- I'm sorry, I'm so sorry ... I ...!

She collapsed in tears and her interlocutor held her in a hug and sat with her on the bed. Holding her for a moment, she whispered in a sweet voice.

-Forget that. I'll only ask you for one thing. Try to be happy and to help others. You'll see how things will go right. Open your heart to friendship. And why not, to love! ...

-You were right. I never thought it was true. I thought you were trying to deceive me, but when I saw how you sacrificed yourself for your friends ... and then my sister's expression ... I will always be indebted to you. I promise I will do my best not to disappoint you. Yes! ... – added Bertie with renewed determination.- From now on I will strive to be worthy of the trust you have placed on me ...

-Well, - her companion smiled at her without giving more importance to that and dedramatizing with a more youthful tone. - The first thing is to go to sleep. Tomorrow we will have a tough day ahead. There is much to sweep in the shrine !, hey, hey ...

Her guest nodded, smiling more lively. So they said good night. Beruche lay down and closed her eyes. It took time to her to fall asleep, she had a mixture of feelings found between regret, shame and sadness, but also joy, optimism and hope. However, finally the tiredness and the emotions of that long day were able to take her and she fell asleep. She thought she had not even spent a minute when she felt a touch on her shoulder and opened her eyes ...

At dawn, the rays of the sun streaming through the pit awakened Roy, he did the same with Bertie touching her gently on one shoulder.

-It's dawned already, wake up ...- he said almost with a whisper in her ear. -

The girl had a hard time getting back to reality. It took her a few seconds to realize she was not at her friend Ami's house in Tokyo. But in that hole, God would know where. She remembered the dream, and the words of the sailor still echoed in her mind …

- Open your heart to friendship. And why not, to love! "...

-I do not know what time it is.- She whispered, trying to stretch herself. -

-Very early in the morning. Six o'clock. - Replied the boy consulting his watch.-

- I hope we can get out now. - Wished the girl while she stretched her arms yawning without shame - ...

-Now that there's light, I'm sure they'll see us, - said her companion, who was really convinced. -

They spent a couple of hours chatting until they did not know what to talk about ... they also wanted to go to the toilet and even if it was embarrassing certain things could not be delayed. Luckily the hole was large and they managed to keep their privacy safe. Especially in the case of Bertie, who noted gratefully that the boy was rather more gentlemanly than she had imagined, turning around for a long time until she finished. She was only upset about  the ankle that could barely support her. More time passed, the two now kept a silence not uncomfortable but fruit of their inability to say anything new. At last he, staring at her, asserted with some caution, as if he thought he would say something foolish ...

-Maybe it sounds stupid to you, but when I talk to you, it's all very familiar. I seem to have lived it before, but I do not know when or how. I feel like I can tell you things I would not be able to tell anyone else.

-It's all the same to me, - she said, surprised by herself. - It's a strange feeling, yes. As if I missed something I cannot remember ...

No one could look away from the other, their lips slowly approaching. They were about to touch when they heard voices that broke that spell of sorcery, separating sharply began to scream.

-We are here! ..... Get us out!

The sounds of these voices approached little by little to them and by the hole they appeared two silhouettes that corresponded to a pair of policemen. One of them threw a rope at them. Roy helped Beruche up and then he climbed without problems. Once up, the first thing they did was ask if they knew anything about the missing child. The agents did not reassure them too much since they had no information about it to give them. That made Bertie nervous again and Roy tried to calm her down one more time. He knew they had nothing to fear, but he also felt guilty again. But he could not say anything. When they were finally back at the University, the first thing they had to do was report to Miss Parker's office. Before that, the young woman was attended in the infirmary of the university. Some paramedics examined the sprain, gave some anti-inflammatories and bandaged it well. After supplying her with a pair of crutches she was ready to leave on her own. Then the two narrated their adventure to both Cooan and Tom who arrived swiftly on learning of their return. They waited to interrogate her sister and his friend respectively when they entered their respective rooms.

-What happened to you? - Asked Cooan hugging her sister, by her gesture and her gaze she was discomposed with concern, more looking at that injured ankle. -

Beruche held her in her arms telling her how they fell in that hole and her fear of the fate of that child. Her interlocutor sighed with relief that her sister was safe and confessed to her fear.

- When you did not come back everybody worried a lot. Tom even wanted to skip the curfew and leave the University to go get you and me too! - she answered almost sobs. -

-Good thing you did not, they could have punished you without need! - Bertie smiled, thanking them both for that detail and adding more seriousness. - I guess neither Roy nor I are going to get rid of a good reprimand. - Maybe even worse, when we say that I lost one of my children. I just hope they have found him and he's fine. - She wailed, resigned and visibly upset. -

Cooan again embraced her with a compressive and conciliatory attitude to say.

-The only thing that matters is that you're both safe.

Beruche nodded but did not say anything, she had her head occupied among other things in many of what Roy had told her and that she could not dare to share with her sister. Meanwhile her adventure partner chatted with Tom in his room. The latter, expressing his relief at the happy return of both, also confessed his concern.

-Be careful with Parker. You know how is she. So do not tell her anything about the child.

-We'll have to tell her that we went looking for him and that's why we got lost, right? - He replied, pretending not to understand. -

-You will see. Michael - commented Tom in allusion to the friend that Roy called to take care of the children - he was in charge of returning them all to the school without problems. That kid was with them, because he was actually near the bus and did not hear the call. Mike himself saw him before he left, he told me on his return. For the school it is not known that any of his children were lost. - Tom concluded, staring at his partner who understood him at once. -

- Bertie does not know anything, surely she will say that it was her fault, that the kid was in her class. - Roy thought aloud, now cursing himself for his own unconsciousness. -

- Avoid it, make it up! Tom advised. - Otherwise, Parker will investigate and that may cost the course to Bertie.

- I will not let her down. - He said decisively. - But that is between us. - Roy asked what his friend nodded.-

However, Tom commented in a tone that bordered on suspicion.

- Michael told me something I cannot understand. He said that you were not in the right place. That things were not planned like this ... What does that mean?

-You'll see, my friend. - He sighed his compatriot deciding to be sincere.-

And he told his roommate all the  weird plan he had drawn. As he sent that “ lost boy” to collect some things from the camp and that his friend Mike had gone to look for him directly without the rest being aware. That way when he and Bertie went out to get him he took the kid to the bus that left without incident. Since Michael assured the driver that the teachers would return by their means. In addition to what Roy himself told the driver. The idea was for that boy to get to them in a short time in his car. But before that "scheduled quest" began, Bertie anticipated due to her fear that something had happened to the child, stumbled and fell. He had to go and get her to that hole, so they were not at the agreed point and Mike could not find them. Then he became worried and it was when he warned the police. Tom could not believe this, his face expressed a visible annoyance and he did not deprive himself of manifesting it.

-You've gone mad? Do you know the fear Connie has been through? How worried were we all? And you're going to tell me that you made all this up to be alone with Bertie and you could date her? Of course, of all the stupid and delirious things I've seen you do since I've known you, This is the worst ... And to think that I told her that you were not as stupid as I thought!

Maybe Tom hoped his friend would downplay it by saying that everything had been controlled, or some of that crap he'd wielded whenever he tried to justify his penultimate villainy. But Roy did not do any of that. He merely listened, bowing his head and adjusting that scolding. Finally he admitted with serious dyes and repentance.

-You're quite right, mate. I've been a stupid. I am so sorry! I dare not tell Bertie that she would not speak to me never again. And she would be right to do so. But I needed to tell someone. Please, I beg you that this stay between you and me ...

-How do you think I was going to be able to tell anyone about this? - Retorted his interlocutor, even with a somewhat indignant tint.-

-I know you will not.  You're a great guy Tommy. I wish I were somebody so decent! But I can assure you one thing, and you know me well enough to know that I never give my word lightly. I swear by the memory of my parents that I have done nothing to Bertie, nor have I taken advantage of her. I'm not going to do it ... she's really special. A good girl with many desires to realize her dream of being a teacher. To help others. She does not deserve to be fooled in her feelings and I will not allow her to suffer more or to be harmed again because of my nonsense.

His companion gave him a stunned look, though he said nothing. He simply nodded, placing a hand on his friend's shoulder. Then he walked back to the bunk. After a moment Roy got up to shower and change. Helped by her sister who held her, Bertie did the same. They had been summoned to the office of the head of studies. So, once they were both ready, they appeared before Miss Parker. The stern teacher made them sit down in front of her, and after a few minutes of scrutinizing them, she declared with reproach and anger. More on repairing the crutches and the bandage that showed the young girl.

- You have scared to death to everyone and besides you have compromised the good name of the University. From you Mister Malden this was predictable but from you, Miss Malinde, frankly I could not imagine it. Do you want to explain to me what has happened?

- You'll see, miss. - Bertie whispered without daring to raise her head that was down with the look aimed at her hands entwined at the height of her lap .- It was because I ...

-Because the poor girl listened to me! - Roy interrupted her with a casual voice to her mate´s amazement. -You know me! I thought that before we left we had to search for the area in order to collect any remaining paper or trash that the children left, bottles and so on.

Bertie wanted to resume her disquisition, trying to deny that stupidity. It was she who ran out to find this kid without thinking of anything else, but her companion did not leave her to speak adding.

- I asked the driver to go with the kids if we delayed because I called Michael and he took care to take them to his school. He did not want to be late.

Parker opened her mouth scandalized by the penultimate that caused that unconscious boy. Although really and for once, it seemed that he was carried away by a civic duty. Anyone was apprehensive about it. But no! That boy was Roy Malden, the same indecent and schemer of always. Surely that ruffian had pretended to do with that poor girl what he was trying to do with all of girls at College by using that ridiculous excuse.

- Do not get smart with me, I bet you took the opportunity to try something dishonest with your partner. As you said by yourself. I know you! Replied the teacher visibly indignant. –

Beruche almost rose reddened, but then sat down again at the pain in her ankle. Yet she protested in scandalized tone.

-Miss, I assure you Roy did not!

-That was what I had liked to do! - He cut her, leaving Bertie out of the way. - He gave me no choice! The very foolish fell on her back into a pit when she was looking for anything the children had left. You know, these foreigners are too naive and trust anyone. And the bad thing is that when trying to hold her I fell too, ha, ha! – he added seemingly funny for it. -

After turning red with anger and snorting discreetly, Miss Parker finally snapped at him.

-We'll talk about this, Mr. Malden!  As for you, Mademoiselle Malinde, you may leave, it is clear that it is all the fault of this thug. I am sorry that you had been mixed up in it and that you have suffered that accident. I advise you not to trust him so much in the future.

Bertie wanted to say something, she thought all those explanations were just lies and she could not allow Roy to take all the blame. Yet he simply looked at her and shook his head slightly but significantly. And if that wasn´t enough, he whispered.

-A princess must trust her knight-errant to undo the wrongs for her.

-What is it? - Parker asked irritably.-

- I'm sorry miss. - He replied with feigned humility. - This time I  crossed the line. But it was not with malice.

-Oh, this time! - said her interlocutor with sarcasm spitting an order with fury badly contained. – I am sick and tired of it! Come on, get out of my sight! -

- Your wishes are my commands. - He answered relievedly as he stood up quickly. -

They both left the office and Roy had to face her classmate questioning look.

-Why did you say that?- Beruche asked. - It did not happen that way.

- Well, I have a reputation to maintain. He smiled at her. - And you another very different, little cube.

The boy was relieved, in fact he had told the truth so that her companion would never believe it. She softened her worried face with a sincere smile of gratitude and shook her head.

-I'm starving. - He added, changing the subject and proposing it with care. - Do you come to eat something or see you tomorrow in class?

- It's late already, I want to rest to see if I get the swelling better. I ´ll go to see my sister, she must be worried, but thanks Roy. - Bertie chuckled a little as she added with mock regret. - I cannot call you  stupid anymore, it's not going to be the same ... what a pity! ...

-Please try! - Remember what I just said, If you won´t call me like that again you will ruin irreparably my reputation. - He falsely begged that, after that comic plea, he turned away by the corridor.

Beruche was still watching him with the smile on her face.

-He is not a bad boy - she said to herself. – He has suffered too, I can see it in his eyes. Maybe he needs time to change ... we all need it ... much worse things I did and yet my friends believed in me. He deserves an opportunity too ... Yes, that lyrics were right, I must be stronger than my past and I will be. Here I have another opportunity and I must grant it to others, as did Ami and the others with us. - She smiled now with more encouragement.-

And as she pondered that, she went back to her room. She had to prepare many things for the next day. For his part, the boy walked away slowly but his heart beat hard. It really was his fault, but he wanted to be alone with her. And it was not to be taken advantage of. That he could swear. Moreover, he had never felt that in his life. Only when he fell in love with Kelly. And as he told Bertie, that mysterious woman was right. Now he was convinced. He had found the one to be his princess. Who was going to say it when they first met? His initial idea just a few months earlier would have been to "see how I would take benefit from her." Perhaps with any other girl that would have meant sex in that hole and if I have seen you I do not remember who you are. He was shaking his head now, reproving himself. Really if their parents had lived they would be very disappointed. Thanks to Bertie, he saw it now. What he told Tommy was true. That absurd and irresponsible way he had been in the last few years had to end. He promised he would change. Well, at least on the inside. On the surface he preferred to continue acting as before to face the others. At least for now. Perhaps now that it seemed that those attacks had stopped, he would have time to rethink his future more seriously and finally make things right.

-Yes, I can be the man my parents always wanted me to be. - He said with renewed optimism. - I owe it to them, and I owe it to my friends ... but above all, I owe it to myself.

However, none of them knew that they had not yet begun the hardest tests they would have to endure ...

                            

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