Chapter 9 – Part 2 [Annie]

On Call with Ace

"Oh, so you can't come? Well, that’s fine. No problem—best of luck with your matches."

Ace’s voice came through the receiver, calm but distant. "Thank you, and sorry once again."

"That’s fine, no need to be sorry. I’ll update you with the details soon, and I’ll also let you know what you have to do for the team. Buh-bye then."

"Sure. Bye-bye."

The call ended with a soft click. Annie stared at her phone for a second before sighing. Something about Ace’s tone felt off, but she pushed the thought aside.

Later That Evening

She arrived at the meeting venue, only to find herself standing in front of an unfamiliar house.

"Why did they change the venue to Dav’s house?" she wondered.

As soon as she stepped inside, she asked, "By the way, why did you guys change our venue? Did something happen? Why the sudden change?"

Dav leaned back against the couch with a smirk. "Don’t mind small details."

Rosh, sitting across the room, tapped his fingers against the table before asking in a teasing tone, "What happened to Ace? Why isn’t he coming?"

Annie shrugged. "He said he had some tournament matches to play, so he won’t be able to joi—"

"Tch." Dav cut her off, scoffing. "Don’t you think he’s just lying? Maybe he just doesn’t want to join us?"

Annie’s expression hardened. "No, I don’t think so. And even if he is lying, there must be a reason. I’m sure of it."

At her words, Dav’s demeanor shifted slightly. His smirk faded, replaced by something more unreadable. Annie noticed the change but didn’t press him on it.

They continued working on their project for the next two hours until Dav finally stretched and said, "Alright, let’s take a break."

The group agreed, standing up to stretch. But just as Annie was about to step outside with the others, Dav gently grabbed her wrist.

"Come with me," he said.

A little startled, she followed him into the living room while the others stepped outside.

Once they were alone, Annie frowned. "What’s wrong, Dav? Why did you bring me here?"

Dav exhaled slowly before looking at her. "Annie, there’s something I need to tell you."

"Okay… What is it?"

His voice dropped slightly, more serious than before. "It’s really important. Please listen to me calmly."

Annie’s heartbeat quickened. Something about his tone made her uneasy.