"Where exactly are we going?" I asked as we stepped into the bustling streets of Vytrinae.
The academy-owned city was designed to keep students from going stir-crazy during the semester-long lockdown. Points served as currency here, with everything from food to entertainment available for the right price. It was basically a college town on steroids, complete with all the questionable life choices that entailed.
"Alies Seres," Selena said with a grin.
I frowned. "That sounds made up."
"It's not a language, genius. It's a couples' café."
"How was I supposed to know that? I've been here for exactly two days."
She laughed. "It's famous enough that even people outside hear about it. You must've been living under a rock."
"Right, because I had so much time for café gossip while getting beaten up and robbed."
"Fair point." She paused. "But it's specifically designed for couples. Single people tend to feel... uncomfortable there."
"So basically, I need a girlfriend to enter without looking pathetic?"
"Exactly!" Her smile widened in a way that didn't reach her eyes. "Good thing you have me."
"But we're not—"
Before I could finish, she grabbed my arm and pulled me into an alley, slamming me against the brick wall. The sudden role reversal was both embarrassing and concerning, especially since she was obviously stronger than me.
"We're not what, Ryan?" Her voice had taken on a dangerous edge, and her knee was positioned uncomfortably close to sensitive areas.
My brain scrambled for a diplomatic response. "You are not just my girlfriend, you're much more special than that."
Her face went red, and I managed to flip our positions while she was distracted, pinning her against the wall instead. For once, she looked flustered rather than predatory.
"Can I get those points now?" I asked, taking advantage of her temporary confusion. "I'm actually in a hurry."
"Y-yes, but what about the café?"
"Tomorrow. I promise."
She nodded meekly, which was unsettling in its own way. Since when was Selena docile about anything?
The points were crucial. I needed to reach a specific sector of Vytrinae today, before Lucas got there tomorrow. There was something there I needed—something that could change everything.