Chapter 21: The Operator
The moment Miles had left, the remaining group slowly returned to reality.
“Wait,” Grace suddenly realized, “Miles saved us, and we didn’t even thank him. Isn’t that rather thoughtless of us?”
“How about we take Miles to dinner in a few days?” suggested Peter, “Maybe we could have some skewers?”
William, laughing softly, interjected, “Just skewers? You’re setting the bar pretty low. I’d take him out for a lavish meal at a high-end restaurant, maybe a karaoke session after, and even some luxurious relaxation therapy. I heard he’s renting; his living conditions aren’t ideal. Perhaps I could convince my dad to buy him an apartment nearby. Regardless, I’ve decided to stick by Miles. No one, especially you, Grace – considering you were middle school classmates – better try to take him from me.”
Finishing his sentence, he shot a suspicious glance at Grace. “No seducing him.”
“What are you going on about, William?” Grace replied, blushing.
“Isn’t that a bit excessive, William?” Peter was taken aback.
“Excessive?” William scoffed, causing the others to recoil slightly, stepping back from him.
The girls looked at William with a mixture of surprise and bewilderment. They were aware of William’s capability, but this was bordering on the absurd.