CHAPTER 4

MORYN LODEZA

I ran towards my classroom, my mind focused on the upcoming Gen Math exam. As I entered the room, I noticed Rhyme leaning back in his seat, totally relaxed with earpods in, while Night was diligently reviewing her notes, immersed in her study. The classroom was buzzing with noise from my other classmates, but only a few, like Night, were as focused as she was. It was clear that everyone had different ways of preparing for the exam.

"Good morning," Rhyme greeted me as soon as he saw me approaching our seats, his smile genuine and welcoming. Returning the greeting, I settled down and glanced back at Night, who was seated behind me. "Good morning, cutie," I said to her, and she just smiled briefly and returned her focus to her notes. Looking to my right, I noticed Rhyme's facial expression. His lips formed a small curve as he gazed at the whiteboard. I understand why he behaves this way; it's just because he wants to show Night that he's relaxed about our exam. He really enjoys teasing her.

When our teacher arrived, my classmates quickly took their seats. I took a deep breath before the exam started, hoping there wouldn't be any arguments afterward. Night has been serious since earlier, and I sense there's some competition between the two of them. After the exam, I once again received the third-highest score. As usual, Rhyme aced the exam perfectly, while Night made only three mistakes. However, she doesn't seem happy with the results. "You're really amazing, Night!" I enthusiastically praised her, trying to lighten her mood. She's been frowning since earlier and became quiet during the next subjects, even though she usually actively participates in class.

During lunch break, Rhyme invited us to eat outside the school, and I was excited about the idea. I hoped that this outing would help ease the tension between them. However, my excitement turned to disappointment when Night suddenly spoke as we left the room. "No thanks," she said, holding her knapsack on her left shoulder with her left hand. Despite her anger, she still looked cute. "Why?" I asked, tilting my head in confusion. Night simply walked past us as we stood in the hallway. "Night! Wait!" I called out, trying to stop her. "Let it go, Ryn. That's just how it is when you're a loser," Night abruptly halted and turned to give Rhyme a menacing look. I felt nervous as she took a step closer to us.

"Can you repeat what you just said?" Night asked Rhyme directly, her voice sounding controlled. Rhyme took a step closer to Night. "I said, you're a loser," he replied with a smirk. Night's restraint faded, and she pushed Rhyme, causing him to step back, but his teasing smile remained. "You're so arrogant! You think you're superior!" Night shouted, her fists clenched and face flushed with anger, on the verge of exploding. "Because I truly am superior," Rhyme retorted. "Oh, is that so!" As Night moved towards Rhyme again, I quickly pulled her away. "Why can't you accept that you can never defeat me?" Rhyme's tone turned serious. "Guys, please. That's enough," I pleaded with them, but it seemed like they were not listening to me.

"How can you be so sure that I won't beat you? In that case, let's have a racing competition!" Night bravely challenged Rhyme. "Let's determine who's truly superior between us." Rhyme's eyes narrowed upon hearing Night's challenge. "Remember this, Night. If I win, stay away from Moryn," Rhyme said, his voice turning cold. I was surprised by his words. It was clear this was more than just a playful exchange. I positioned myself between them and addressed Rhyme. "Rhyme, please don't say something like that," I said, expressing my concern. "It's fine, Moryn," Night interjected. "I agree. I won't back down. I'll do whatever it takes to win." Her determination shone through in her expression.

"Alright. I'll prepare the track and field just for the two of us. Let's meet there after our classes," Rhyme declared before turning away and walking off. Following the noon break, they no longer acknowledged each other. It seemed as though they were strangers or simply indifferent towards each other. The situation left me feeling disheartened. I struggled to concentrate in class, consumed by thoughts of what awaited us later. I felt worried and nervous. Glancing at the serious expressions on Rhyme beside me and Night behind me, I sensed a palpable chill in the air. They seem very cold, that is why I refrained from engaging with them. I was aware that no matter how hard I tried to stop them, I couldn't prevent their conflict. I felt like I was responsible for this, and I found myself at a loss for what to do next.

"Okay class. Dismiss," the teacher announced, prompting Rhyme and Night to rise simultaneously and exit the classroom through separate doors. As I observed this, I couldn't help but release a sigh. Hastily gathering my belongings into my bag, I intended to follow them. "Hey guys! I heard there's going to be another showdown between Rhyme and Night!" Before I could even leave my seat, a male classmate's voice from outside the room echoed with excitement, spreading the news to everyone. "Really! Let's go watch!" a girl responded eagerly. It appeared that someone had overheard Rhyme and Night's earlier argument. "OMG! Let's head to the field." Subsequently, my classmates and students from other sections hurriedly departed, causing a commotion that even reached the college building.

This scenario is a common occurrence here, and for the students, weekdays lack excitement without a Rhyme versus Night showdown. The entire Destine University community is well aware that these two are fierce rivals in all aspects. They were also tried to be disciplined by the teachers since we were in elementary school, but the two of them were too persistent, so the teachers eventually gave up and let them be. It's not just because Rhyme is the child of one of the school owners, but both of them have stubborn heads. Even Leah, with her influence as the president of the student council, couldn't intervene to halt their clashes.

Upon my arrival at the track and field, I noticed a crowd of students already gathered, creating a lively atmosphere with cheers and noise. I stayed quiet on the side, keeping a low profile as the attention was fixed on Rhyme and Night, who were ready and prepared. Both of them were dressed in their PE uniforms, engaging in stretching exercises. I observed the presence of Mr. Rodrigo Sarmiento, the coach of the basketball and racing team, standing before them alongside two track and field staff members. Despite Mr. Rodrigo speaking, I struggled to discern his words due to the distance and the students' noise.

I heard that there's a running race competition approaching, and it's originally scheduled for training here. It appears that Rhyme spoke to Mr. Rodrigo to utilize the field for their showdown. Observing Rhyme and Night with their serious expressions, I recalled Rhyme's condition. If he wins, Night will not allowed to approach me anymore. The thought of this competition makes me even more anxious. I value Night's friendship and don't wish to be separated from her. After completing their stretches, the coach moved aside, allowing Rhyme and Night to assume their positions in the starting blocks. The students watching grew even louder as they anticipated the beginning of the race. As the sound of the starter gun reverberated, Rhyme and Night surged forward simultaneously.

Even though the surroundings were very crowded, I tried to squeeze my way through to get to the front position so I could see them clearly. I clasped my hands and brought them close to my chest. I closed my eyes due to the noise and the commotion of the people around as they kept jumping and shouting. As far as I know, the rule set by Rhyme is that they have to run five laps around the track and field. The winner will be the one who finishes first. Knowing that Rhyme has a higher chance of winning makes me sad. If only Night hadn't agreed to their bet that she can't approach me anymore if she loses, I wouldn't be worried.

I observed Rhyme taking the lead in the race, with Night determinedly striving to close the gap. Rhyme had already completed four laps while Night was still on her second. Everyone was shocked when Night suddenly tripped and fell to the ground. I covered my mouth and felt like crying at what I saw. I noticed some of us gasping, while others showed clear signs of concern. Unable to restrain myself any longer, I was on the verge of rushing to aid Night when someone unexpectedly grabbed my arm to prevent me from doing so. I turned to look at the person. He stood tall, making me tilt my head up to see his face. He was dressed in a senior high school uniform. He gave a slight shake of his head while flashing a smirk. His presence felt intimidating, as if his silhouette was looming over me.

He released my arm and stood next to me, crossing his arms. Since I didn't know him, I decided to leave him be. I turned my attention back to Night. She was trying to stand up slowly, visibly in pain. I felt breathless from watching her struggle. Despite the difficulty, she kept running, gasping for air. It was clear that Night was facing challenges, yet she persisted in pushing herself to keep running.

Rhyme was nearing the finish line, poised to claim victory in the race. Night pushed on, giving her all to close the gap with Rhyme. As Rhyme finished his fifth lap, Mr. Rodrigo's whistle pierced the air, marking the end of the race. I saw Night kneeling on the ground, and only then did I run to her. Some students rooting for Rhyme cheered with joy as he emerged as the winner. When I approached Night, I knelt down to see her face. She had her head lowered, palms on the ground for support, tears welling in her eyes. Unable to contain my emotions, I found tears streaming down my own face as well.

"I won again," I looked up in surprise when I heard Rhyme speak. I hadn't noticed him approaching. "As per our agreement, you are not allowed to come near Moryn anymore," he added. Night remained silent as she continued to sob. "No, Rhyme, please. Please don't go through with the agreement," I implored Rhyme, tears streaming down my face. "It's too late, Moryn. My decision is final," Rhyme responded, his tone icy. "She lost because she didn't put in enough effort to beat me." Rhyme's words triggered Night's frustration, leading her to punch the ground in anger. "What's with this commotion!" We heard a familiar voice shout, prompting both of us to turn towards the source. I saw Leah making her way towards us, holding a megaphone in her right hand.

She walked up to us, observing Night and me in tears, then turned her attention to her younger brother, raising an eyebrow. With a sigh, she addressed Rhyme, "What's going on, little bro?" Rhyme remained silent, simply shaking his head and crossing his arms. I noticed the coach hurrying towards us. "I apologize, Miss Leah. It was at Mr. Rhyme's request," the coach clarified. "I understand. You can leave now," Leah responded. After expressing gratitude to Leah, the coach departed. Leah took a deep breath and raised her megaphone.

"The game is over, everyone, go home!" Leah's voice rang out with irritation, causing the students to disperse in a hurry, almost as if they were afraid, leaving just the three of us on the field. "Are you out of your mind?" Leah started again. "What's wrong with you? Can't you see the distress you've caused these girls?" Rhyme abruptly halted, turning his gaze towards us seated on the ground. He studied us intently. I was comforting Night, who still had her head bowed, crying. He appeared taken aback by the scene before him. His Adam's apple moved as he gulped and looked away from us. Then, he turned his back and dashed off. "Hey, jerk! Come back!" Leah yelled after Rhyme, but he paid no heed. What was going through his head? Even I had no clue what was going on in his mind right now.