Chapter 91: Working Harder
Elias continued, "I just think it’s important to enjoy what life can offer sometimes. I know things will only get harder, but if you don’t take time to appreciate the rare moments when it’s not, then what’s the point?"
For a moment, she said nothing. Then, she exhaled, nodding. "Yeah... I get that." She flicked her gaze over to another plate. "I know Paul’s been struggling too."
Elias huffed a laugh. "Yeah. Turns out his favorite dish is..." He paused for effect, watching her expectant stare. "... a peanut butter and banana sandwich."
Kikaru blinked. "R-really?!"
Elias shrugged, taking another bite of his meal. "Seems so."
Kikaru scoffed, shaking her head. A small, unexpected laugh slipped out. "That’s... honestly kind of fitting." Her smile faded slightly, her fingers grazing the edge of her plate.
"It’s too bad Colby is missing out," she murmured. Her voice softened, uncertainty creeping into it. "I don’t even know how he’s doing right now, to be honest..."
Elias smirked, but this time, it wasn’t playful. "I wouldn’t over-worry about him." He set his chopsticks down, tilting his head toward her. "I spoke with Geras. Even though his shard was taken, he said he had some plans for him."
Somewhere Else – Training Facility
The air was still. The only sound was the slow, controlled breathing of a figure in the dark.
Colby’s body moved in rhythm, muscles contracting, sweat dripping as he pushed through the final reps.