Chapter 9: Contacting the Hacker
Xavier arrived at the academy early the next day, his mind made up. He knew what was about to happen, and he was done hiding. Previously, he had tried to evade his bullies, but it had made no difference. They always found him, no matter where he was, and no one ever stopped them.
This time, Xavier didn't enter the academy. Instead, he stopped at the station near the academy, his eyes scanning the area. When he spotted Oliver's luxurious van approaching, he signaled it, and the van smoothly pulled up in front of him.
Xavier stepped up to the window, his voice steady. "I have the money. What should I do next?"
Oliver's eyes widened in surprise, and he gestured for Xavier to get in. "Hop in. We'll talk inside."
Once the van was in motion, Oliver turned to Xavier, his expression serious. "Do you really have the money?"
Xavier nodded. "Yes, I do."
Oliver studied him for a moment before speaking. "I won't ask how you managed to gather $10,000 overnight, but you better not be lying. I can't afford to lose one of my trusted and useful connections—the hacker."
Xavier met his gaze, his voice firm. "I'm not lying, Oliver. I have the money."
Oliver nodded, then asked, "Are you okay with skipping the first lecture?"
Xavier shrugged. "I don't really care."
Oliver then directed the driver to a nearby cybercafe.