40. Anxious

Justin began eating the wrapped sausage, giving Ruby some relief. It would have been better if Justin finished it in one bite, but that's fine - the first bite was large. A few of the air conditioners were turned off. Ruby was hot, so she removed her hat. Her shiny hair looked lovely, but it was difficult for Justin to swallow. Justin stared with puffed-out cheeks. His eyes widened as though gazing at the vastness of the galaxy. Even in the dark, Ruby seemed to shine in Justin's eyes.

"What's your name, by the way? I need to write it down.”

"Carl Justin," he reluctantly added. "And you?"

"Ruby Cassie Liona," she replied.

"Nice name." Justin took a slow drink of water, but it didn't make it down his throat, and he coughed. "Ruby—what?"

"Is there any problem?" Ruby asked.

Justin's brightness faded. His thirst persisted. His body felt rigid, making even setting down a bottle to take a sip challenging. REDCA focuses on her - the exact person Madam Jenn seeks. Justin's mind envisions a