The Intuition Of Us

PART 20 : Updating

— I'm back ! I announce, coming into the living room, and finding them all sitting there.

Zachary is the first to react, rolling his eyes, obviously, followed by Lenny who directly asks what information I gathered and how it went. The others are all looking, waiting for my response.

— Okay so, first of, I had a great time and all, and Theo is clear.
— Pff, sure he's super clear. What, he paid for your drink or something ? Zachary snickers, making my own eyes roll in annoyance.
— Well, he did actually. But that's not why he's clear, obviously. He was genuinely surprised when I even mentioned girls disappearing, and then he gave me every detail he had, he even said he'll help me if I go back there.

My words peak Lenny's curiosity and he asks :
— So...which details ?
— There's some kind of vip lounge either upstairs or underground, where a bunch of rich people meet. It's very private, hush hush and all. And apparently, all the girls were last seen there. Oh and the girls were all the eye-catching type, and they entered with invitation from either the staff or the vips themselves.

Lenny nods while Ivy leans back onto the couch, saying :
— That does explain why we didn't find much on the main floor.

But Saika is frowning, looking away, and seemingly deep in thoughts. Meris is the first to points it out, surprisingly nicer to her :
— Saika ? What's up, girl ?
— I should've noticed if something sketchy was happening in the building...

Everyone turns to her, our expressions more or less softer. And unexpectedly, Zachary speaks to her :
— If this lounge is as secretive as it seems, then it's only normal you didn't sense it.
— Yeah ! And honestly, it was late at night, there was already quite the movement and noise all around, you did well enough, Ryder adds.

Saika nods, brushing off the overthinking, as Meris just pulls her closer, hugging her from her side, and passing her fingers through Saika's hair.

Lenny then claps his hands together :
— Well, I think that's more than enough for today. Good job, Elara, you did great, he smiles, patting my head while standing up. I propose we chill for the rest of the night.

At the mention of chilling, Ryder jumps :
— Snacks and game night !
His enthusiasm is quickly joined by Saika's and Ivy's. Meris stretches like a cat, and with a grin, she adds :
— Alright but you better bring the weird drinks so we can play something stupid.

Ryder and Saika's gazes meet, and two wide smirks creep on their faces :
— Never have I ever ? Ryder proposes and Saika nods, already going to the kitchen.
— Okay, snacks, weird mixes, stupid games and terrible decisions ! Ivy chuckles.

And just like that everyone starts scattering around to get everything we'll need. The mood has lightened up considerably, and that thought alone can't help but bring a little smile on my lips.

For once, we're gonna spend a funny, almost normal night together. For a house filled with trauma, secrets, danger outside and so...this doesn't feel too bad.