Chapter 9

Emerald

Instead of resting early last night because I don't have overtime at work, Zane's sudden suggestion kept me wide awake all night. Fortunately, I didn't oversleep; otherwise, I'd be late for work.

"You look like a panda today," Mathilda noted. "Stop minding the rumors. They'll eventually fade."

Oh, no! It's not the rumors that caused it, but our stupid friend's proposal. I wondered if Zane was even thinking when he blurted those words out, or was it out of pity. Whatever his intentions, I didn't like it.

"It's not the issue, but the stupid Zane, Mathilda!" I exclaimed.

I saw a hint of a smile on her face, which confirmed everything. I wondered if they had all planned it together and let Zane be the one to execute it alone.

My annoyance reached its highest level. Though I knew they just wanted what was best for me, I didn't like their planned solution to my problem.

"Don't you like it? Zane is mateless; you can use him. Besides, there's nothing to lose if you do it," Mathilda t