Taming Leo's

#4:

After changing into my school uniform in my mother’s room, I was ready to leave the hospital. As a second-year college student studying computer engineering, I knew that my educational journey would stretch out for many more years ahead.

I quickened my pace, eager to reach AU, which is conveniently located right next to the hospital where my mother was admitted. Coincidentally, both AU and this hospital share the same owner, making my daily commute relatively easy.

However, in my haste, I didn’t notice the group of people I was passing and accidentally bumped into one of them.

“Sorry! I didn’t mean to,” I apologized, my voice filled with concern.

“It’s okay! Just be careful next time,” replied the man I collided with, though I didn’t catch a glimpse of his face. I simply bowed my head in acknowledgment and offered another apology before rushing off.

I hadn’t informed my stepfather about our situation; I wasn’t ready to face him again. My focus was solely on my mother’s recovery. She needed to get better before we could think about going home.

As I walked briskly, I pondered my plans for the money I had won. I decided to use it for an advance payment on my studies, relieving me of the burden of tuition fees for the near future. All that was left was for me to earn an allowance whenever possible, just enough to cover our daily living expenses.

"What happened to you, Leo?" Marky asked with concern etched across his face as I entered the classroom and took a seat beside him.

His voice lowered, filled with an urgency that made my heart race.

"Did you fight again?" he pressed on, his worry palpable.

I sighed, knowing there was no point in hiding the truth from my friend.

"I have to, Marky. If I don't fight, I won't be able to study at all."

He shook his head, disbelief etched in his features.

"But do you realize how much of a liability you're taking on? That job is illegal! If you don’t kill, you could end up dead yourself!"

His words hung in the air, heavy and foreboding.

"I know that, Marky. That’s why this will be my last fight there. I’ve already made a lot of money that day," I replied, my tone steady as I tried to convince him... and maybe myself.

I settled into my chair, a small sense of comfort enveloping me.

"Come with me to the admin later. I need to get an advance on my tuition fee."

"Okay, I’ll join you later. Are you fully paid this semester?" he inquired, a hint of surprise in his voice.

"Yes, and I’ll also pay in advance next time, if my budget allows it now."

"Wow! Is that how much you’ve won?" he exclaimed, taken aback by the prospect.

"Yes! I’m determined to continue my studies. I won’t let anything stop me now," I vowed, my resolve strengthening with each word.

"Okay, okay," he nodded, still processing what I had shared.

As we waited for our professor to arrive, I devoted my ears to his lecture while my hands diligently scribbled notes, and my mind absorbed every word, the weight of my decision lurking in the back of my thoughts.

"Hi Leo," Maylyn greeted me with a bright smile as she approached us after our class had finally wrapped up for the day.

It’s one of those moments where you can’t help but feel a mix of emotions. Maylyn always manages to say the right things, making it sound like she likes me, but I know better.

Deep down, I realize she’s looking for something more physical, and I’m not interested in that, especially not with someone who is already involved with others.

If I were to be with someone, I want it to be a real connection, a singular bond, rather than a fleeting encounter.

"Hi Maylyn. Do you need anything?" Marky chimed in before I had the chance to respond.

"Oh, nothing in particular. I just wanted to hang out with you guys. How about grabbing a drink later? My friends are all set, so I thought I’d invite you two," she replied, her gaze lingering on me as she winked. That gesture always left me conflicted.

"I don’t have time for that, Maylyn, so you two should just go." My words brought a frown to her face. "I’ve got work tonight, and my mom’s in the hospital. I don’t want to enjoy myself while she’s not well." I felt a twinge of guilt as I said it, but it was the truth.

"You always reject me," she said, a hint of disappointment etched in her voice along with a faint smile. "You’ve turned down every invitation I've extended."

"Next time, Maylyn. I really need to save for my studies. I’m not like you; I can’t manage school without working." I watched her sigh, her demeanor shifting.

"Okay then. Let’s chat later. I have an offer for you, something that might help you not work around the clock," she suggested. "I’ll wait for you at the AU gate."

With that, she bid us goodbye, leaving Marky and me in silent contemplation.

"I can see it clearly," Marky mused, a playful grin stretching across his face. "If I didn’t know better, Leo, I’d say she’s pretty much head over heels for you. I wouldn’t be surprised if she offered her body just to make you happy. Who knows? Maybe once you grab her, she’ll really fall for you. You’ve got the looks and the cash; it’s a perfect setup."

His teasing continued, leaving me feeling a bit uncomfortable.

"You’re ridiculous. I’m not interested in a girl who’s no longer a virgin," I retorted, shaking my head as I exited the classroom, Marky trailing behind me.

He laughed at my response, still following closely.

"Come on, even if she’s skinny, she has a decent body and a pretty face. And have you seen her curves? If you don’t want her to come in, just take her from behind; I guarantee you’ll both enjoy it."

Marky's shameless commentary never ceased to astonish me. How could he say such things?

"What in the world are you talking about? Knock it off! I need to finish up my commitments. I haven’t been able to check in at work for the past two nights."

I quickened my pace, determined to head straight to the school office.

As expected, I was greeted with the welcome news that the money I earned from my part-time job would carry me through until graduation, and there was even a bit left over. My only concern was ensuring I had enough for those who would soon rely on me.

Marky and I stepped out of the office with smiles on our faces.

Sure enough, Maylyn was waiting by the gate just as she had said, and Marky’s assumptions about her intentions rang true.

I declined her offer politely, not wanting to hurt her feelings. I told her I’d think about it, assuring her that if I truly ran out of options, she would be the first person I approached.

Even though I could see her disappointment, I knew she couldn’t force me into anything I didn’t want.