"What are you doing, Fariz?" Reena's breath hitched as she looked at me with an unreadable expression.
"Don't ask questions when you already know the answer, Reena." I licked the remaining blood off the machete.
"You actually killed someone who did nothing wrong to you?!" Her voice rose in disbelief.
I burst into laughter at her reaction.
"Reena, Reena... I didn't expect you to be this shocked. Don't tell me you still don't understand?" My eyes watered from laughing too much.
"What do you mean?!"
"You should've already known about my obsession with blood the day you killed the school gardener just to save me…" I crossed my arms and circled her, watching as her face turned pale.
"So don't act all high and mighty, accusing me of killing innocent people, because you're just like me, Reena!"
Her expression changed, and suddenly, tears rolled down her cheeks.
"I... I never thought the person I love could be this cruel." She wiped her face.
"If you love me, you'll accept both the good and bad in me." I grabbed her arm, flashing her a wide grin.
"Do you love me?" I teased.
Slowly, she nodded.
I chuckled, gently patting her head.
"I love you too, Reena." I pulled her into my embrace.
She returned my hug. A sinister smile crept onto my face.
"Women are so easy to fool with love," I whispered silently, stroking her back.
I finally let go of the hug.
"You're officially my girlfriend now. You'll accept everything about me, right?" I tested her again.
She nodded quickly, smiling sweetly.
"In that case, you need to learn to kill and be just as cunning as me." I said eagerly.
Reena stared at me for a long time.
"Huh?" Her brows furrowed.
"We kill, we hunt, we escape together. Are you willing?" I extended the machete toward her, waiting for her to take it.
Reena stared at it for a while.
Then, she reached for the machete and clutched my hand with her other one.
"Good, Reena. From now on, I'll protect you from any danger. I promise." I gave her my sweetest words.
"You promise to always stay with me and never leave?" She blinked at me, her face filled with hope.
I forced a smile.
"Yes, I promise. I won't leave you."
Her smile widened.
"In that case, I won't leave you either. I'll protect you from any threats that come our way." She rested her head on my shoulder.
I smirked in satisfaction.
Finally, I had gained the trust of a weak girl like Reena.
---
Reena stared at her English workbook for a long time before suddenly nudging my shoulder.
I had just finished sharpening my pencil when I looked at her with sharp eyes, raising an eyebrow.
"What is it now?"
She pouted.
"Help me with this. You're smart, right?" She batted her eyelashes.
I shook my head quickly.
"I didn't even do my homework."
Reena gaped at me.
"Then why are you acting all relaxed? Do it now before Mr. Aizat canes you!" She scolded me nonstop.
"I've been through worse. A little caning doesn't scare me one bit." I scoffed.
"Ugh, whatever. But please, help me. You must be good at this!"
"I'm not!" I was getting annoyed.
"Then who's going to teach me?" She whined, pretending to look sad.
I shrugged before resting my head on the table.
"Ugh, what's the point of having a boyfriend if he's useless?" she grumbled in frustration.
"Say whatever you want, just don't complain right in front of me," I muttered, yawning.
"Reena, what are you doing hovering around Fariz's desk?"
Remy suddenly appeared, panting.
"I wanted him to help me with my English homework, but he refused!" she whined, shooting me a glare.
I ignored her and looked out the window.
"Oh, I can help if you want. I'm already done with mine." Remy pulled out his book from his backpack.
"Yay! Thanks, Remy!" Reena quickly moved to his desk with her books.
I closed my eyes, trying to nap while the teacher was still absent.
But just as I was about to drift off, someone roughly nudged my shoulder.
"What now, Reena?!" I snapped.
"It's me, Amir."
He crossed his arms, looking at me.
"What do you want?"
"Come with me for a moment."
Amir tried to grab my hand, but I swatted him away.
"Why should I listen to you?" I asked coldly.
"Because…"
He leaned in and whispered into my ear.
"This is about your family."
My eyes widened.
"What did you just say?"
How the hell did he know anything about my family?
"If you want to find out, follow me."
He walked out of the classroom with a calm expression, signaling me to follow.
Reluctantly, I stood up and followed him.
"Where are you going?" Reena suddenly asked.
"Bathroom." I replied briefly.
Amir led me to the rooftop, where the wind blew strongly.
"So? What do you want to say?" I crossed my arms.
But Amir just smirked in silence.
"Hurry up! I don't have time for your games!" My voice grew impatient.
"Your sister, Sara… is dead."
I froze at his words.
Then, I let out a small laugh and clapped my hands.
"So what does this have to do with me? She wasn't my real sister!"
"I know you wouldn't care. But, Sara's body was found… raped and tortured to death." Amir slowly approached me.
"I don't want to hear about that b*tch, so stop being nosy and telling me all this!" I turned to leave, but Amir grabbed my wrist.
"But you need to know this. Your stepmother and father… they've filed a police report about Sara's death.
And they've named you as the main suspect."
My blood boiled instantly.
"What?!"
"Yes, Fariz. The police will be coming for you soon." Amir's voice dragged, taunting me.
"They have no proof I did anything!" I ran a hand through my hair in frustration.
"They don't need proof. The crime scene was spotless—no clues, no fingerprints, nothing. So, everyone assumes you did it."
I clenched my fists.
"That f*cking stepmother!"
"Relax, Fariz. I'm telling you this so you can run before they catch you!" Amir gripped my shoulder.
"R-Run?" I muttered.
Amir nodded.
"I don't run from enemies. They run from me. They don't know who they're messing with… but I'll make sure they do. I'll be the one to end those who come after me."
A twisted smile spread across my face.
Amir stiffened slightly.
We walked back to class, where I spotted Reena still sitting at my desk. Probably taking advantage of the teacher's absence.
BAM!
I slammed my desk with full force, venting the rage boiling inside me.
"What's wrong with you?! You're acting like a lunatic!" Reena's voice carried a hint of concern.
I exhaled sharply, glaring at her. Without a word, I shoved my scattered books and belongings into my backpack.
"Where are you going?" Reena asked.
"You can come if you want, I don't care!" I ran out of the classroom, ignoring the confused stares from my classmates.
"Hey! Wait for me!"
Reena hurriedly grabbed her things and ran after me.
"Remy! Put my stuff in my locker later!" she shouted as we dashed past.
Remy nodded in understanding.
"The key?"
"Ask Nara—she knows which locker is mine."
Remy nodded again, not asking further.
---
We finally arrived at a small hidden hut—a secret place I used to visit as a child.
"Hahh… I'm exhausted!" Reena fanned herself, panting under the scorching sun.
"If you knew you'd be tired, you shouldn't have tagged along!" I snapped. Her clinginess irritated me sometimes.
"Ugh, what is wrong with you today?! You've been pissed off since earlier!"
She sat cross-legged on the mat I had laid out.
"None of your business!" I leaned against the wooden wall, catching my breath.
"Fariz, I'm thirsty…"
She swallowed dryly, her lips slightly chapped.
I tossed a bottle of mineral water at her.
She gulped it down greedily, spilling some down her chin.
"Don't finish it. That's all we have." I snatched the bottle back from her grip.
"Why are we running? What actually happened? You've been acting like this ever since you talked to Amir. What did he tell you? Did you do something?"
Her questions fired out like rapid bullets.
I took a deep breath.
"Your dad… he's actually an inspector, isn't he?"
I smirked slightly as I watched Reena's face stiffen.
For once, she was completely silent.
"I was never caught before because this was all your doing, right? You lied to me about your parents being dead, didn't you?"
Now, she was the one trapped by the question she had asked earlier.
Slowly, Reena nodded.
"How did you know all that, Fariz?"
"I'm not stupid, Reena. Before I decided to accept you as my girlfriend, I investigated your background myself. Why did you lie to me, Reena?" I cupped her cheek, demanding an explanation.
"My mom… she really is dead. I only have my dad and my brother. But my dad forced me to live alone in that house to keep me safe from his enemies who wanted to kill me."
I nodded in understanding.
"Why do they want to kill you?"
"Because my dad took bribes while investigating a serial murder case. The suspect's own family came to him and paid him to ignore all the evidence at the crime scene. Unfortunately, my dad cared more about money than his duty. Now, the victim's brother wants revenge. He was even charged once for trying to shoot me, but he was released due to mental illness."
Reena explained in detail.
"Then why did you lie to me?" I rested my chin on my hand, looking at her.
"Because I know you've killed many people. And if you knew about this, you would stay away from me to avoid getting caught by the police…"
I shook my head at her.
"I've never been afraid of anyone, even if your dad is an inspector."
Reena smiled sweetly.
"I've told you everything. Now, you tell me—why are we running away?" she asked.
"Amir came to see me. He told me that my stepsister was found dead after being raped and tortured. My stepmother and my dad accused me of doing it…"
Reena's expression changed, her face darkening with unease.
Slap!
My shoulder stung from the impact.
"What the hell is wrong with you?!" I glared at her.
"How could you do such a thing, Fariz?" Tears welled up in Reena's eyes.
"Are you stupid? I've been with you 24/7! Do you really think I had the time to do that?!" I snapped, frustrated. How could Reena be so slow-witted?!
"Oh, sorry, sorry. I can't think straight—I'm hungry. Okay, continue!" Reena grinned, looking completely unbothered.
"Amir told me to run before the police could arrest me…"
"So, you ran? Wow, I didn't think you were such a coward!" Reena scoffed in disgust.
"I'm not done talking yet. I didn't run—I'm just waiting for the right time to kill everyone chasing me…"
Reena's face turned pale instantly.
"I want to go home!" She abruptly stood up and rushed out of the hut.
"Suit yourself!"
She stopped in her tracks, then ran back toward me.
"Let's just go home. Your family doesn't even know where I live!" Reena tugged at my shirt.
"Your dad is an inspector—he'll investigate me thoroughly. Worse, you might get accused of being my accomplice."
Reena shook her head vigorously but then smirked.
"If he could cover up a serial murder case, it's not impossible for him to do the same now, right?" She laughed in excitement.
"What are you talking about?"
But Reena only gave me a knowing smile.
"Don't tell me you—"
She nodded quickly, crossing her arms.
"Sigh… don't mess around. What if he doesn't agree?" I couldn't bear to think of the risks.
"I'm his biological daughter. Besides, you didn't do it, did you?"
"Of course, I didn't. But—"
Reena gestured for me to be quiet. I let out a frustrated sigh.
"Shut your mouth before I stuff it with sand. Let's go!" She grabbed my hand, pulling me along.
"Go where?"
"You know the answer, Fariz. Hurry up, what we're doing isn't wrong!" She tightened her grip on my hand.
Despite my reluctance, I had no choice but to follow her.
---
A sinister smile played on his lips as he watched Fariz and Reena walk away from the hut.
His fingers traced over the face in the polaroid, his heart aching with longing.
"Evil people always get away with their crimes, but I will be the angel of death that makes them suffer until they can't even breathe in peace for a second…"
"I love you, but you make me hate and love you. Now, a blue blood of evil will get my love and a terrible disaster."
He pulled out his phone from his pocket.
Hugging the secretly taken photo of Fariz in the restroom, he held it close.
"I still want you. But you're a monster that stole my heart. I'll make sure you fall into my arms forever, darling."
A slow, sinister smile formed on his lips.
"Can't wait to see you, darling."
•••
"What are you trying to do, Reena Annisa?!" I asked, panicked, as I saw her preparing to take out a ladder stored in the garage.
"I'm climbing through the window, of course. What, you think I'm gonna hit you with the ladder instead?" Wow, this girl is getting bolder with me!
I shot her a sharp glare.
"I know that! The problem is, what if we get caught by your dad? And we're both wearing hoodies like a couple of burglars!" I grabbed her hand to stop her from climbing the ladder.
"I know what I'm doing. Are you worried? I thought the cold-hearted Fariz wasn't afraid of anything," she said with a small laugh.
"Shut up!" I snapped.
"But you were scared just now… You even called my full name!" Reena burst into laughter as she climbed the ladder.
"You're gonna fall laughing like a banshee like that!" I crossed my arms, holding the ladder steady as it wobbled from her movements.
"If I fall, you'll catch me, so why should I be scared?" Reena continued climbing.
"You sound so confident. I won't catch you if you fall!" No way I was catching her, even if she was light as a feather.
"Whatever you say, sweetheart." Finally, Reena managed to climb through the window.
"What are you waiting for? Climb up! Or are you gonna wait till we get caught before you start moving?"
Reluctantly, I carefully climbed the ladder.
"You go in first. Find your dad. I'll follow later."
Reena nodded quickly before disappearing through the window.
I let out a slow breath.
"Such a hassle. If it weren't for my own reasons… there's no way I'd be listening to you!" I muttered as I climbed the ladder, reaching for the window.
Suddenly—
Thud!!
Someone yanked me down forcefully from the ladder.
Thump!!
I tumbled onto the ground. My eyes darted around, searching for the bastard who dared to mess with me.
"Hey! Come out, you coward!!" I yelled.
But only silence greeted me.
I dusted off the dirt on my clothes. But as I touched my shoulder, I felt something stuck to it—a piece of paper.
Catch me if you can, baby.
We keep seeing each other, but sadly, you never 'notice' me… someday, you will, sweetheart.
"Arghhh! What the hell does this psycho coward want now?!" My blood boiled as I read the sticky note.
"HEY! WHAT DO YOU WANT FROM ME?!!" My voice echoed through the area. Annoyed, I stomped around, searching every corner, but there was no trace of movement. Only the sounds of birds and the rustling of leaves in the wind.
"Ugh, just you wait, coward. When I catch you, I'll grind you alive!" I sat cross-legged on the ground, still fuming. Sweat trickled down my face.
Creak!!
I turned as soon as I heard the front door slowly open. I was ready to fight if attacked, but it was just Reena, grinning at me.
"What's with you? Suddenly barging in like that. Lucky I didn't kill you out of shock!" I approached her with a death glare.
She just chuckled.
"You're the one at fault. I told you to climb through the window, not sit outside screaming like you're hosting a concert..." Reena pulled me inside.
"Where's your dad?" I asked once we reached the modest living room. Reena handed me a glass of orange juice.
"At the station. Investigating the murder case of two students from our school."
I nearly choked on my drink.
"Cough, cough!" I rubbed my chest as the pain lingered.
"What's wrong with you? Don't drink so fast!" Reena shook her head while patting my back.
"What did you just say? A murder case involving two students?"
Reena nodded quickly.
"Why do you look so shocked? What, don't believe there's another crazy killer besides you at our school?" She sat beside me.
"You really are slow, aren't you? I'm the crazy killer you're talking about!" I pinched her cheek hard.
"Arghh, ugh, I can't believe you dared to kill students—especially under tight police surveillance…" I rested my chin on my palm, smirking at her.
"As if you're any better?" I sneered.
"That's different. I had no choice! Ugh, stop bringing that up!" Reena pinched my arm.
"Because you're slow. Anyway, I'm hungry!" I got up and walked to the kitchen. Reena trailed behind me, grumbling nonstop.
I opened the fridge. For some reason, after yelling earlier, I suddenly felt hungry.
"Hey, don't just rummage through the fridge like that!" Reena's face changed, looking anxious.
I frowned at her.
"What are you so scared of?" I ignored her and scanned the fridge's contents.
There was raw chicken and beef, some vegetables, soy sauce, ketchup, and a jar wrapped in black plastic.
I grabbed the jar and tried to open it… but it was tightly sealed.
Reena was now visibly uneasy. She snatched the jar from my hands.
"Hey, what's your problem?" I tightened my grip on the jar. My curiosity was growing.
"Aren't you ashamed to touch other people's stuff? Put it back!" She tried to take it from me, but I was faster. We struggled over the jar—until it slipped and rolled onto the floor.
Bam!!
The front door suddenly swung open.
The jar stopped right at the feet of the person entering.
Reena and I froze. She bit her lip, gripping my arm tightly, her body trembling.
"Reena Annisa, who gave you permission to enter this house?!" A rough-looking man approached us.
I saw Reena's whole body shaking, her eyes glassy.
"B-Brother…" She ran to hug the man, but he quickly pushed her away.
"I'm sorry! I'm scared. Right now, the police are after me and my friend." Reena pulled the man closer to me. He stared at me sharply.
"You'll help us, right, brother?" Reena pleaded.
"Hmm, let me talk to him alone." The man pointed at me.
I scoffed. As if I was scared of his tough-guy act. Not one bit!
Reena nodded reluctantly and went into a nearby room.
As soon as the door shut, the man approached me, scrutinizing my face.
"You. What's your name?" he asked coldly.
"Fariz Aidan." I replied, eyes fixed on the floor, avoiding his gaze.
"And what's your relationship with my sister?" He crossed his arms.
"Friends."
"Friends? Just friends, yet she begged me to protect you?" He scoffed.
I stayed silent. Be patient. If it weren't for my goals, I wouldn't even bother playing nice.
Suddenly, he stepped closer, brushing my short hair with his fingers. I felt his breath near my ear.
"You smell… like a woman. I like it," he murmured.
Annoyed, I swatted his hand away before he could touch my cheek.
"So aggressive, huh? I like that." He chuckled. "Oh, by the way, my name's Rayqal. Even though we just met, I like tough women like you."
I glared at him.
"Sorry, Rayqal. But I should be honest with you. I'm Reena's boyfriend… and your future brother-in-law."
"I pity my sister. She's too dumb to realize she's dating a girl," Rayqal laughed.
"You're the dumb one for not knowing how to judge people. I'm a guy. My name is Fariz!"
"Hahaha, alright, I believe you. But I still can't stop myself from being attracted to you." Rayqal smirked before opening the bedroom door.
Reena stepped out, looking excited.
"Brother?"
Rayqal simply nodded, grinning.
Reena let out a relieved breath, running to hug me. I returned the hug, shooting a smug grin at Rayqal.