Chapter 14 Can You Have Lunch With Me?
“Friend? Are you sure you know what ‘friend’ means?” Stanley released Coleen and stated, “You should be more careful when choosing friends, or you will get hurt.” He turned around, headed toward the bed, and coldly added, “Goodnight.” Sensing that Stanley was pushing her away, Coleen replied with a simple “Goodnight” and left. After Coleen departed, Stanley sat on the bed and lit a cigarette, his gaze suggesting deep contemplation. Returning to her room, Coleen took a bath and went to bed without dwelling on the recent events; she was too exhausted. The following day, Coleen woke up at nine a.m. to find that Stanley had already gone to the company. She had breakfast downstairs and discussed her visit to Xander’s school with Aline. Aline arranged for a car to take Coleen to Xander’s school, the Serendale Noble School. Coleen used to attend this school during her junior high years, where she first met Lyndon when he was a senior high school student. “Ms. Hurst, I’ll be waiting here,” the driver informed Coleen, interrupting her thoughts. She replied with an “OK” and entered the school. Xander was in Cla*s 6, Grade 10. Familiar with the layout, Coleen navigated to the cla*sroom without a*sistance. Having slept in a bit, Coleen arrived at the cla*sroom around ten a.m. As she pushed the door open, she saw Xander and a group of b*dyguards, prompting her to furrow her brows. Xander, the sole student in the spacious cla*sroom, sat at a desk. Observing his isolation, Coleen realized, “No wonder Stanley said he wouldn’t be disturbed. He’s receiving one-to-one teaching.” Upon spotting Coleen, Xander stood up and greeted, “Hi, Ms. Hurst.” Coleen interrupted her thoughts and smiled, responding, “Don’t call me ‘Ms. Hurst.’ Just call me ‘Coleen.'” Xander lowered his eyes and smiled gently, saying, “OK.” A wave of sympathy washed over Coleen for Xander. She thought, “He’s such a nice boy. Why has he fallen ill?” With a smile, she said, “I’m not late, am I?” “No. I was worried you wouldn’t come because last night I…” Coleen patted his shoulder and rea*sured him, “Mr. Roman, don’t push yourself too hard. You were the saddest that night. You don’t need to worry about me. I’m fine. Really.” Touched by her words, Xander pulled a chair from the front of the cla*sroom, and Coleen sat across from him. She inquired, “Have you practiced writing the words I gave you yesterday?” “Yes.” Coleen continued, “Let’s practice together today.” “OK.” Xander sat down and started writing. He peeked at her from time to time. “Coleen.” Coleen asked, “What’s wrong?” Xander said, “Can you have lunch with me later?” Coleen looked at him and asked, “Why?” Xander explained, “I don’t want to eat alone.” Coleen thought about it and answered, “OK.” Xander asked, “Really?” She replied, “Yes. It has been years since the last time I dined at this school.” Xander asked again, “You used to go to this school too?” Coleen responded, “I studied here since kindergarten. Let’s finish practicing calligraphy first.” Xander nodded joyfully and maintained his delight throughout the session. Observing his beautiful smile, Coleen felt a sense of satisfaction. She occasionally patted Xander’s head to encourage him. Unbeknownst to them, Stanley observed through the window at the cla*sroom door. A faint smile played on his face.
