Ryacell opened his door to find the same policeman with the patch on his left eye. He didn’t say anything initially, making Ryacell anxious.

“Is there somethin’ going on, sir?” Ryacell asked the dark-haired enforcer.

“No, you’re fine,” the policeman looked over Ryacell. “Have you seen any suspicious activity recently?”

Ryacell thought of Saphire. “...N-no, sir!”

The policeman cocked his eyebrow up. “Hm, you seem a bit nervous. You still have my card?”

“Y-yes!” Ryacell’s palms became clammy. He forgot where he placed the card and was too nervous to ask for another one.

“Okay,” the man nodded. “Don’t hesitate to call me.”

“I won’t, sir!” Ryacell stiffened.

“You have a good night, then,” the policeman left.

Ryacell watched him drive off in his vehicle before closing the door. He crawled into his bed and closed his eyes.

***

Saphire thought about what Rashelle had said and laughed to himself on the way back. At the mansion, he was greeted by his oblivious parents. They were hauling out luggage to another car.

“Saphire! I’m glad we got you at this time,” Mrs. Creliz kissed her disguised son on the cheek.

“Business trip?” Saphire guessed.

“Yes,” Mr. Creliz pushed a bag, “a little more than a week.”

“Don’t worry, sweetie. We’ll be back for your birthday,” his mother smiled. “Will you be okay?”

“I will,” Saphire replied. “Take care.”

“You too! Love you, dear,” Mrs. Creliz hugged him.

Mr. Creliz hugged him as well, “Stay safe.”

The parents drove out as Saphire headed back to his bedroom. He removed his makeup and wig, changed clothes, and then he stared at himself in the mirror. The preteen examined his face and wondered if he looked too feminine.

Is it my hairstyle?

Is it my jawline?

Is it my eyes?

No one was around to see him practicing his “manly” voice. He flexed his arms and was annoyed at how lean he was.

At least I’m taller.

Saphire went to sleep as the last peaceful day ended.