The Rooftop (2)

"WHAT'S HAPPENING THERE!?" A resounding, gruff shout rang out from behind.

Liam turned his gaze leisurely toward the source of the voice, locking eyes with its owner. The figure that emerged was a massive man, sporting a bulky physique, prominent muscles, and an imposing stature—the quintessential embodiment of a physical education teacher.

"LIAM!! What is the meaning of this?!" The PE teacher, Roe, sprinted over to Noah, surveying the fallen figures sprawled across the rooftop. Most of them bore severe injuries, though in Liam's estimation, they deserved far worse.

Under the intense scrutiny of the infuriated educator, Liam remained unflinching. He approached the scene nonchalantly, his tone remarkably calm. "They got what they asked for. It's just tit for tat... you know how that goes, right?"

"Huh? You think breaking your fellow classmates' bones qualifies as retaliation?!" The veins on Roe's forehead bulged, his agitation palpable. His open palm seemed poised to deliver a slap, akin to cocking the trigger of a gun before firing.

In a split second, as the imminent slap neared, Liam's leg darted forward, striking the teacher's knee. The swift kick toppled Roe, who fell on his butt, leaving everyone in stunned silence. None could fathom witnessing a student confronting a teacher in such a manner. And that too on a PE teacher!

Liam leaned in close to the teacher's ear, his words a low, menacing whisper. "I know what you and Miss Elis are up to. Be careful with what you do around me. I have recorded evidence that could royally fuck up both of your lives." His lips curled into a faint smile as he lightly patted Roe's flushed cheek—an amalgamation of anger, fear, and humiliation.

As Liam turned away to leave, a sudden recollection crossed his mind. "Oh yes, Noah~"

Liam's gaze shifted to Noah, who still knelt, cradling his throbbing jaw, tears pooling in his eyes, who shuddered hearing his name called out.

"You'd do well to remain discreet about this entire incident. Inform your father that I possess the Li Constructions' red recordings. I'm certain he'll find them quite enlightening, and I believe he could be instrumental in aiding your situation. And as for your cronies... it's in your best interest to consider their fate." Liam's final words were delivered with a chilling demeanor, leaving Noah involuntarily nodding and quivering in response to Liam's cold, bloodthirsty eyes.

Liam then continued his steps toward Eri, who stood there with quivering legs and teary eyes. "Li-Liam, I'm s-sorry. All of this happened because of me. *hic"

Unable to resist, Liam wrapped his arms around the scared, tearful girl. He couldn't bear to see her in such distress.

Though initially stunned, Eri soon hugged him back tightly, her tears soaking his shirt.

*waa hic

"It's okay...None of this is your fault, it's okay. I'm here for you," Liam assured her softly, his voice a soothing balm to her wounded heart.

"Hey, want to go to a nice restaurant for lunch?" he suggested, hoping to lift her spirits.

While the idea appealed to Eri, she still felt unsure about what to do next. Liam had just beaten up the bullies, leaving them with broken bones. She wanted to help them, but she sensed that Liam wouldn't approve.

Liam looked at Eri, who was still lost in thought, her gaze fixed on the injured goons being assisted by the PE teacher.

With a sigh, Liam recognized the pure innocence in Eri's nature. It was a quality that might not serve her well in the harsh realities of the world.

"Eri." Liam gently held her arms, pulling her out of her reverie.

"Mm?"

"You know, we're adults now, and in a few years, we'll be stepping into society. We won't survive if we keep blindly helping others like this."

Although Liam's words may feel wrong to some, he knew that in time, they might hold a semblance of truth.

In a world still governed by laws and rules, buried deep within people's hearts were untamed human instincts that would resurface with the advent of the apocalypse. Justice would give way to the rule of the strongest.

And he was well aware that it wasn't the right time to reveal these truths to Eri, Liam recalled from his memories that the world collision was still a little way off. So, for now, he would take things slow and cherish the remaining moments of peace that the world had to offer.

"but what about the classes, if we go to a restaurant?" Eri inquired.

"Can't you just bunk the classes just for me today?" Liam requested, his eyes filled with hope.

Eri hesitated for a moment, contemplating the idea, before finally giving in. "...okay," she replied with a soft smile.

Liam's heart warmed at her response. Despite the uncertainty surrounding their current situation, he was determined to make the most of it and fulfill the wishes he hadn't been able to in his past.

As they descended the stairs together, a thought suddenly struck Liam. "Eri, wait for a few seconds. I think I forgot something on the rooftop. I'll be back in a second."

"But—" Eri began to protest.

"Just a second!" Liam assured her before rushing back to the rooftop.

(HUFF)(HUFF*

"Damn, I'm out of breath just from this little run. I'm really weak right now. I'll definitely need to train," Liam thought to himself as he reached the rooftop. Taking a moment to catch his breath, he approached the group of bullies who were now making their way downstairs. Their expressions turned fearful as they caught sight of Liam.

Ignoring their reactions, Liam headed straight for Noah, who looked at him with a mix of fear and apprehension.

"Oi! Return all the money you extorted, and make sure to include the interest. It's probably best if you transfer the entire amount into my account. You do have my number, right?"

Noah hesitated, glancing quickly between his phone and Liam.

"Tsk." Liam clicked his tongue in annoyance. He raised his hand slightly, and Noah quickly fumbled with his phone. A notification popped up on Liam's screen.

[ Your account XXXXXXDX434C has been credited with $10,090 on 14/9/23 at 1:17 PM. ]

Liam nodded in satisfaction as he read the message. With a pat on Noah's shoulder, he turned to leave and rejoined Eri.

Meanwhile, Noah's anger simmered beneath the surface. Liam had not only beaten him and his goons but also blackmailed him. Noah's resolve solidified – he wouldn't let this guy off the hook so easily.

.

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{ A/N - I've been feeling under the weather for the past few days, but I didn't want to keep you waiting any longer.

Happy reading~!

[Shiroi] }