A/N: I had edited this chapter, but still waiting for the beta reader to check my grammar.


PROLOGUE 2


Day 438 'Never Seen Be-fur'

Everything was fine without any problems occurred to Genman family, excepting some problematic which were not beyond Ryan to handle. For instance, some teenagers who had tried to harass Alice while they had been walking back from ice-cream shop, but Ryan had stopped them beforehand. And, some small problem may be caused by Alice herself. Such, when she was in a bad and down mood, she rampaged to everyone on her sight due to her period and cried in the end, feeling guilty. Ryan had to calm her down, soothed her, and entertained her by telling jokes or singing with adding jokes in its lyric.

.

*beep beep beep beep*

*click*

Ah… time to wake up and morning exercise… again, he woke up, turning on his phone screen after he dismissed the alarm. It was Saturday, 4 o'clock and a half in the morning. No more time to waste, he outed off bed changing from his night clothes to his usually jogging clothes, white undershirt covering by a gray cotton sweater and matched colored jogger pants. After he had tied up his sneakers, he started his routine exercise.

It took about an hour to finish his exercise and backed to his room showering and having his breakfast afterward. After cleaning himself, he walked to servant's dining room and greeted everyone.

"Good Morning, everyone!"

"Good Morning, Ryan."

"Morning, sir."

Then, he started having his breakfast after he wasted his time greeting his colleagues. It was 6 AM now, he quickly finished up, washed his plate, and hauled the food cart that contained deluxe decorated breakfast for Alice.

"Hey, Ryan, stop stealing my job, will you!" one of the servants yelled pretending to be angry.

"It's okay. I have to be with our master side as usual. So, I think I will take the food to her on the way." Ryan replied.

"I'll lose my job if you keep doing this." The servant grumbled earning small laugh and giggle from everyone in the room.

"Aww… I won't let you go. And, it's time for work now. Let's get started." He stated as he walked out with the food cart, journeying to Alice's room.

He stopped in front of the room and knocked the door three times. There was not response, so he knocked again. He heard softly groaning sound from inside of the room, then in no time, he walked into the chamber. It was dark with some dimming sunlight from the curtain and small sleepy breathing sound from the Queen-sized bed. Ryan let out a short snort and walked to the curtain, counting down under his breath.

"3…2…1…"

"RISE AND SHINE!" He surprised the sleeping beauty as he suddenly opened the curtains.

"Urghhh!" Alice groaned irritably and rolled aside avoiding the sunlight.

"Good Morning, my lady. It's 6 in the morning. The weather will be partly sunny with 95-degree Fahrenheit maximum. And, I bring you your favorite breakfast, cranberry peach granola, Iced Horchata, and… a puréed nut spread with a grape relish reduction paired with a brioche bun."

"Uh… what's the last one?" Alice asked confusingly.

"A puréed nut spread with a grape relish reduction paired with a brioche bun," Ryan replied with sly smiled.

"Geez… English, please? My brain is not awake yet…" She groaned.

"A peanut butter and jelly sandwich." He chuckled and placed food tray on the table across her bed.

Alice sighed annoyingly getting out of the bed. She walked past him and gave him an irritating look before saying,

"You know, Ryan, the research stated that we are waking up in unnatural time for the human. They indicated that human, for my age, should wake up not before 10 in the morning. And, today is Saturday by the way."

"Whether it is your excuse for not wanting to wake up early or the research actually said that. However, waking up early give you an opportunity to have time more to do anything under the sunshine. You can play your games, do some sport, write your novel, or…" Ryan leaned forward next to her ear and teased, "ask me for a date…"

Alice shockingly jumped back as her face blushed. He chuckled, "Now, you're fully awake. Please sit down and enjoy your breakfast, my lady."

While he stepped back standing and waiting for Alice to have her breakfast, she sat down, had her breakfast and looked into her smartphone to see unseen notifications. She scrolled down and saw a text from her friend commenting about the movie her friend watched last night after the school.

"Are you free in this afternoon?" She asked while she was chewing granola.

"First, my lady, finish your chewing first. Second, I am always occupied by standing by your side and protecting you." He answered.

"Oh… Then, I want you to come with me and watch the movie in this afternoon, wearing casually too."

"So… you actually ask me for a date." He teased.

"Whatever…" She shyly replied.

.

A quiet morning passed, Ryan and Alice wore themselves casual to lie low their relationship from unexpected friends might saw them hanging out. To lie low, they planned to use public transportation to travel to the movie theater, but the nearest skytrain station was still too far for them to walk, so Sam volunteered to send them and pick up them as they came back.

While they took a journey to the movie theater, Ryan picked up his phone and searched an app for reserving the movie tickets.

"My lady…" He tried to ask.

"No… no 'my lady' or 'lady' things while we are dressing like this. Everyone here will think we're weird." Alice interrupted.

"Okay… hey, Alice, which movie do you want to watch?" He continued, acting like they were friends.

"Why don't you guess." She said with a smile on her face.

"Hey, I am not psychic or something. I can't read your mind, you know." He replied annoyingly.

"That's not funny." She turned away with a grumpy face.

"Alright… but, give me a hint, at least." Ryan reconciled.

"Hmm… The movie first show was yesterday. It is an animation made by the company that has 'W' and 'D.' In its teaser, it said 'Like nothing you've seen be-furr…'" She turned back to him.

"Are you saying we're going to watch that movie."

"Yes, that movie." She smiled.

Oh boy… He thought with a skeptical face, "Alright, I'll make a reservation… Oh…"

While Ryan tried to make an online reservation, the train stopped at their designated station. He dropped his phone in his pocket, and said,

"We're here, let's go to the theater and buy the tickets instead."

.

"Two tickets of…" Ryan looked at the reservation screen and pointed to the movie name, "…this movie, please…"

While he was busy choosing the seat and time, Alice waited for his return and was messaging with her friend.

A: 'hey, we're gonna watch the movie that you recommend'

F: 'we? Oh, you and Ryan… so you guys are dating ;-)'

A: 'no no not dating… we just hanging out :$'

F: 'messing ya :-P how you guys doin'

A: 'i really excited to see the movie but…'

F: 'but?'

A: 'he doesn't seem to into it :-/'

F: 'aww c'mon, he's gonna love it'

A: 'hope so'

F: 'are you alright?'

A: 'im fine here's he come gtg bye'

F: 'bye have fun'

Alice put her phone to her bag as Ryan came back to her. She asked, "What took you so long?"

"The seat was unavailable or unsuitable for all time." He answered.

"That's why I told you to make an online reservation earlier." She scolded him.

"Yeah yeah I'm sorry…" He rubbed the back of his head.

"So… no movie today?" She hopelessly asked.

"You know, my duty is to follow your orders. So, I managed to buy you…" He showed her two tickets and continued, "the world's first and only club styled with five stars' hotel services theater… the Enigma!"

"Isn't that the most expensive ticket here! You don't have to…" She was surprised and interrupted by his finger touching her mouth to stop.

"For you, my lady, it's nothing I can't handle." He leaned and whispered in her ear making her face redden shyly.

He stood back and continued, "The tickets said that the theater would be ready in…" He looked at the clock on the pillar, counting down by his fingers… 321…

"Now, let's go, Alice" He elbowed her softly for her to grab arm in arm and walk.

.

As they walked into the Enigma theater for the first time, Ryan was completely inexperienced with this kind of service. However, Alice already knew how to behave as she was already treated like a princess at her home. When they were entering the theater area, it was dimming and decorated with sleek black furniture, expensive looking flower vases, and several of beds facing to the theater screen with a couple of pillows, cozy blanket, and a menu on it.

"Wow…" They awed together as they were observing around. Later, they giggled at themselves of their inexperienced and walked further.

"Where is our… how should I say… seat or bed?" Alice asked.

"Let's say place instead, and it would be… there." He pointed out to the free bed located in the center of the theater. He led the way to their place and gestured her to sit and lay down. Then, he walked around to the other side of the bed and let himself down next to her picking up the menu.

"What would you like to have, Alice?" He asked as he pressed button calling waiter.

"Surprise me… You should already know what I really want." Alice challenged him with a smirk on her face.

"Okay then…" He turned facing to a waiter who knelt next to the bed waiting for the orders.

"She would like to have Virgin Peach Bellini and Chocolate Hazelnut Bark. And, for me, Blue Shoe… That's all."

"What's Blue Shoe?" She asked after the waiter left.

"One of the mocktails, you'll see when it's served." He replied.

They silently waited for the movie to begin, listening to the background music. Then, Alice started to ask,

"Ryan… Don't you like this movie?"

"I don't hate it… just… I don't know if whether it's just some child movie or what. But, I won't judge the book by its cover. And, do you know anything about the movie?" He answered as he laid down leaning against the pillow, put his hands behind his head, and looked at her.

"I didn't know anything, my friends didn't spoil, and I didn't watch its trailers except the teaser."

"So, we will watch the movie without knowing the basic of the story… Heh, it likes a gamble." He chuckled, then the waiter came back and served their orders.

.

Alice had a champagne flute having thick orange color bottom half of the glass and sparkling yellow color top garnished with peach slices and mint. Her plate consisted of several shapes of chocolate barks topped with chopped hazelnuts, and the plate was decorated with chocolate and fruit jam. For Ryan, he had a chilled martini glass with bright unnaturally blue sparkling.

Her eyes stared intensely at his glass in confused, then she asked, "Is that Blue Shoe?"

"Yes. Wanna try?" He offered his glass to her, and she accepted and started to sip it.

As she tasted it, she could feel it really sweet yet sour, and it smelled refreshingly sweet too.

"Wow, that's… so… YOU!" She exclaimed as her eyes widened and looked back at him.

"Really!?" He surprised.

"YES! It is. When I tasted it, it completely reminds me of you."

"Well… I have no comment on that…" He chuckled.

Then, he turned back to her as he felt something cold poking his arm. Alice offered her drink, looked away with blushing face, and said, "You can taste mine too?"

He nodded accepting her drink and took a sip of it. Its taste was peachy sweet with a little bitter, and its smell was completely peach.

"How was it?" She asked hopefully.

"It would be boring, if I answer same as you, so…" He cleared his throat, looked into her eyes, and described, "When I tasted it, I imagined myself in some jazz bar entertained with fantastic jazzy instruments paired up with a sexy voice. I could waltz around joyfully as the sparkle popped in my mouth. Then, I was tangoing with my dancing partner in content as the thickness of the juice. The sweetness, in the end, was like I was KISSING with a candy tasted lips of my partner."

Alice was speechless as Ryan emphasized the word 'kissing' teasingly. Then, her cheeks started to turn red and turned away, avoiding his look.

"W...w… what do you mean!?" She stuttered.

"I mean what I just said." He smirked slyly at her making her embarrassed even more.

"Sh… shut up…" She mumbled.

The theater was started to dim the light meaning the movie was about to start.

"Now, my peach lady, please enjoy the show." He said and focused on the screen.

.

"Wow, that was great… it's really worth for the money." He said as they were walking out from the theater.

"I agreed, and my friend was right." She smiled at him making him looked at her in doubt.

"Right about what?" He asked.

"She said that you were gonna love it."

"Oh… yes…" He admitted.

As they were walking along side-by-side, Alice began the conversation.

"Are you hungry? I'm famished right now."

"Well, it's time for dinner. Let's grab something to eat. What do you want?" He asked.

"Up to you. I'm out of idea now. I really can eat anything." She answered as she rubbed her tummy.

"Well then, follow me."

While they were finding the diner to stop their hunger, the questions which he expected were asked.

"Do you think they can be a couple?"

"You mean the fox and rabbit? I believe that they can." Ryan answered.

"From what the fox said or from their adventure?" She continued.

"I think both. The relation can be formed by being together, and the near death experience can give them more bond and fondness. From what that fox said, it could be a trigger, but it has two meaning in itself. Whether he was just teasing the rabbit friendly or just another way to say he has feeling for her."

"Then, what do you think what he was trying to?"

Ryan stopped turning to her, leaned next to her ear, and said with his attractive voice,

"You know you love me…"

He waited for her reaction and then, she flinched blushing her face as he expected. He chuckled, "What should you say next?"

"D…do… I know that? Y…yes. Yes, I do." She shyly replied.

"Now, you should know what he is trying to."


Day 670 'Wilt'

This day was the last day for school, and as the tradition of this school they studied, there would be a prom night. The party was held for seniors students to enjoy together for the last time. There were dancing, gaming, competition, and romantic waltzing for youth lovers. A day, a week, or a month before this wonderful event, the boys had invited their girls to be a party partner, or even, the girls had asked the boys out. Some disappointed and some delighted, but for Ryan, he had let down all beautiful girls' invitation. He excused himself that he already had his partner. And, Alice, she also secretly refused all boys too.

.

"So… who's the lucky guy?" Ryan asked while stood outside waiting for Alice to finish dressing.

"What?" Alice shouted through the door.

"Who's the lucky guy? Going with you to the prom" He repeated more aloud.

"Oh… He'll be here soon… And, any beautiful girl with you tonight?" She asked.

"No…"

"Why… no girl asks you out?"

"Actually, a lot. But…"

"But?"

"Like I said, I already occupied by some princess here."

"Har…Har… You should enjoy yourself too. Tonight will be the last night to see our friends and the school."

"I already enjoy myself being with you." He finished and everything went to silence.

*Ding Dong* The doorbell was ringing.

"Oh! It must be the prince charm." Ryan teased.

"Would you please open the door for him? I'll be there in a bit." She said.

"Yes, your highness." He replied playfully and walked to the front door.

.

Ryan walked down the stairs and continued himself to the front door. He was guessing about the guy who had invited Alice out for the prom night on the way. Then, he surprised after he opened the door, he saw a black limousine, the Genman limo actually, and no one else but San himself. Ryan was confused as Sam held a bouquet of flower and was walking to him.

"What the heck, Sam…" Ryan asked and gave a quizzical look at Sam.

"Thank me later" Sam whispered to him as Sam pushed the bouquet to his chest.

"What the… Oh… Ohhhh… I see now" Ryan nodded in understanding.

"Who's there?" Alice shouted from the second floor.

"Your prom date, master Alice," Sam promptly answered for Ryan.

Ryan now had to play along as her date who came to pick her to the prom. Arranging and fixing himself, he stood in front of the door slowly turning himself to Alice.

"Wow… You look gorgeous, my lady or… should I say 'Princess.'" He smiled at her. Alice wore her usual ceremonial dress.

"Oh please… Ryan…" She stopped and waved her hand.

"For you, princess." Ryan presented her the bouquet.

"That's sweet of you, thank you, Ryan," she happily accepted and sniffed the flower.

While Alice was distracted by the bouquet, Ryan winked thankfully to Sam who walked past him, pat his shoulder and continued to the driver seat.

"My princess, let's go to the prom." Ryan led the way and opened the limo door.

"Yes, but… Before we go…" Alice walked toward him. She put out boutonnieres and stuck it on the right of his chest. She pat softly after finished.

"And…" She put her phone out and took a selfie with him. "…complete."

"Okay…" He gestured Alice to sit in the limo and walked around to sit on the other side.

"Master Alice, Ryan, are you ready to go?" Sam asked and looked in the rear mirror.

"Let's go, Sam," Ryan confirmed. And, their journey to the prom party was started.

.

While they were traveling to their school, Ryan still did not understand why Alice chose him as her prom date. But, he did not mind at all. Instead, Ryan was happy. He smiled and gazed outside, seeing the scenery past his eyes. It was a quiet, peaceful and happy moment for him. But for Alice, it was nervous. She felt awkward and thought about what Ryan could think of her. Not inviting him at first, forcing him to be her prom partner, she ashamed of herself and looked down, thinking herself as a dictator. Somehow, Ryan noticed something uncomfortable as he looked back to her. He saw Alice frowning, her eyes began to shed a tear. Then, he shifted next to her and enfolded her with his left arm, smiling at her.

"Worrying something, my lady."

"I feel… so wrong." Alice sadly replied.

His heart was skipped as he heard. "What's the matter, Alice? Is it about me?" He asked.

"No… no… It's me… I should ask you first… not forcing you to be my prom date."

He understood the situation now and felt relieved. Alice continues, "I didn't know if you have prom date or not. My friend said that you already have the dancing partner. I'm scared and…"

"Hey there, I already said that I'm always occupied by YOU, and I'm really glad. Remember? And, I won't have time for anyone because all of my time is for you ONLY." He interrupted, tightened his arm around her, and smiled genuinely.

Alice blushed shyly and gave him a bright smile back.

"Hmm… I'm so sorry to take your time away, Ryan" She snuggled into his side.

"Well, it's worth for me."

"Really?"

"Yes, and… I think we should change the subject, you know." He pointed his finger at Sam who drove and smiled silently.

"Don't mind me. I want to enjoy the show more." Sam teased.

And, it was a joyful ride again.

.

"We're here, my lady." He outstretched his hand for Alice to lead her off the limousine after they were reached dropout area at the party.

"Thank you, Ryan. And remember… no 'my lady' things." She warned.

"Yes, ma'am."

As they marched on the red carpet through the entrance door, most of the boys enchantingly struck and stared at Alice. Ryan quickly led her to their group of friends.

"Hi there, everyone." Alice greeted.

"Hi!"

"Hey!"

"Oh wow, your dress is stunning."

"Thank you, and yours are not bad as well" She giggled.

"Alice, I will pick some drink for you. Please wait here." Ryan whispered in her ear.

Alice nodded and continued the girly talk. Ryan walked to the long table full of snack and punch bowl. He scooped up some snack on a paper plate and poured punch in the plastic glass. While Ryan walked back to where Alice was, Ryan stopped and hid when he heard the girls including Alice talking about him. He did not suppose to eavesdrop, but could not help himself. He wanted to know what they were thinking about him.

"I knew it! That you would come with him."

"Yes. Like I said they're a couple, but they don't admit it."

"No, no, He and I are just the closest friends" Alice tried to argue.

"Oh… C'mon, everyone here already knew."

"Yeah, just don't know who ask first… So… you or Ryan?"

"Noo… we just…" She blushed.

"Aww, look at you. You're blushing."

"Now, admit it."

"…" Alice could not argue anymore and turned her face away in embarrassment.

"He's sweet, gentle, well-mannered, calmed, and warm, don't you agree, huh?"

Alice silently nodded.

"Then you should officially ask him out. Tonight is our last night, our last high school dance."

"I agreed, you should confess him, Alice. It's your last chance here."

They really have no idea. Ryan thought and walked toward the group.

"Now, what you girl did to my date here, she blushed. Are you talking about me…" He teased.

"NO!" Alice embarrassingly stated as her friends giggled.

.

While they were enjoying themselves, talking about the dress, teasing Alice sometimes and having some snack, the background music was lowered the volume. MC tested the microphone and stated,

"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the prom night. And now, it's time for our last waltz. And, after that, we will elect the prom King and Queen from your dance and vote. So, music…"

The music was started its melody. It was some years old romantic song which Ryan and Alice recognized it from the radio. It was not their favorite, but it suited the atmosphere where there was dimming light, motioning colorful spotlights, and some small sparkle.

"Shall we?" Ryan asked as he reached his hand out for her, inviting.

"Yes…" Alice accepted his hand and let him led the way.

You're in my arm

And All the world is calmed

He stopped at the free space, faced to her and bowed down, and she replied.

The music playing on for only two

His left hand grabbed her right stretching out to aside, and his right hand placed on her left waist gently as her left softly place on his right shoulder. He led, and she followed, they started their waltz.

So close together and when I'm with you, so close to feeling alive

He pulled his left hand up and her cue was to spin. She swirled herself slowly and stopped facing him again.

A life goes by, romantic dream must die

And, they continued to waltz, but more powerful as he leaped further and span themselves, leading them to the center stage since there was no one there.

So, I bid my goodbye and never knew

As they reached, he slowed down and led her smoothly. His eyes concentrated and looked at her shining hazel brown eyes.

So close was waiting, waiting here with you

And now, forever I know

She looked into his eyes in response. She saw wondering, yet wondrous obsidian black eyes flashing as they hit the light. They were still waltzing automatically, but their mind was drifting and ignoring their surrounding as they were only two in this whole world.

All that I wanted to hold you so close

Then again, he lifted his left hand for her to spin, but he stopped her in the halfway. Alice stood in front of him. His left hand smoothed to her left gently from behind. Then, he grabbed her left hand as his right embraced around her wrist softly. She placed her right hand on top of his, and they waltzed.

So close to reaching that famous happy end

As they were waltzing, the music was getting into Ryan. He began to hum along with the song.

Almost believing, this was not pretend

"Almost… believing, this was not pretend…" He finally sang making Alice giggled sweetly.

And now you're beside me, and look how far we've come

"And now you're… beside me, and look how far we've come…" He looked down to her.

"I didn't know that you can sing wonderfully without making fun of it." She smiled at him.

He smiled in reply, and slowly downed his head next to her left ear, embracing her tighter.

So far we are so close…

"So far… we are… so close…" He attractively sang through her ear.

As the music hit its middle eight, Ryan spun her to the center of the stage, slowly followed up and stopped in front of her as she stopped her swirling. Coming back to their basic waltzing posture, he led themselves around as fast as the tempo of the music and spun her again making her giggled. Then, Ryan pulled her back and grabbed her wrist with both of his hand carrying her high. He smiled happily as he saw Alice smiled brightly. Before the final verse began, he put her down and giggled with her.

Oh how could I face the faceless days

Then, he noticed something. He saw Alice's face turning to sad and avoiding him.

"You're sad… What's wrong?" He looked with his concerned eyes and used his hand to guide her face back to his.

If I should lose you now?

"Oh no… I just… It's our last night here and…" She mumbled.

"And…?" He repeated.

We're so close to reaching

"And… I don't know…" She frowned, looked into his eyes, and continued, "It hurts…"

"Hurt?" He worried.

That famous happy end,

"Yes… It hurts that… I have someone in my heart, but I can't hold him in my arms." She snuggled into his chest tightly.

"Yeah… I know it's sucked." He replied making her giggled softly.

And almost believing, this was not pretend

"But, now... I am so happy that… I have you in my arms." She smiled up at him, showing how much she pleased now.

"I agreed… And, I am, as well, really happy to have you in mine too." He replied and embraced her tightly.

Let's go on dreaming for we know we are…

"Ryan, I… I…" She tried to beg for something, but Ryan interrupted. He pressed his index finger on her mouth before saying,

"Alice, I know, it is forbidden, but…"

They released the embrace as Ryan used his right hand caressed her left cheek. Then, he cupped her jawlines, pulling her face to his. Their eyes wide shut as his lips passionately touched her, they were kissing and not caring of other thoughts.

So close, so close and still so far…

They parted their first lovable kiss and softly pressed their forehead together, panting as their hearts were racing. Opening their eyes looking into each other, he felt so frustrated like his heart was going to explode. The only three words with eight letters were in his mind and only those words that he wanted to say so badly.

"I love you…" He whispered to her.

"I love you too…" She whispered back.


Day 724 'Desire'

Next week, it would be Ryan's and Alice's the second first met anniversary. They still had stayed being normal as the master and her bodyguard, but there was no more frustrated feeling or any unsatisfied feeling. Since their first confession, their relation had been fonder, yet respectful. Their routine was still the same, Ryan could serve, protect, and be with her. And, Alice could live her life as usual and studied for her bachelor degree in literature arts to pursue her passion. She wanted to be a writer since Ryan gave her a notebook. She had practiced herself reading, educating, and letting her imagination go wild. And, Ryan helped her as much as he can.

Since then, his another job was to read her literature, commented straightforwardly, and gave her some opinions. He did not mind at all instead he was happy to do so as he could know more about her and how her thinking. He was well aware that she would be a good writer later, but still, she was inexperienced for being professional. He had asked her that whether wanted to be a writer or not. She had said that she wanted to be, and left the company ran by other professional managements since she had a significant portion of stock holding. And, every decision making would be coming along with briefing and easy summary before she, Genmans, or other authorized person decided. Each decision made must be corresponding with the company's regulations and its cultures, such as being crystal clear to the public eye, or no harm to the environment and living.

.

"What are you reading at?" Alice asked.

Today, they were shopping and hanging out at a famous department store as Alice wanted to buy some novel and literature things for her writing experiment. They were in a large bookstore.

"Oh… a psychology book… It's interesting." Ryan answered and closed the book looking back at her.

"How's it interesting?"

"Umm… like how to hypnotize, human personalities, and types of motivations…" He elaborated.

"So… now, you can hypnotize me, huh?" She teased.

"Nah… too fast for me to do that." He shrugged his shoulders and continued. "Do you finish your shopping?"

"I got everything for now, and I'm gonna pay."

While they were walking to the cashier, Ryan continued to read the psychology book. Alice could see that he was serious to what he read.

"So, you like psychology things?" She asked him.

"Yes." He continued his reading.

"Why?"

"It's interesting. Knowing people mind, how brain work, and how to manipulate other minds."

"It's kinda creepy and unrealistic to manipulate people…" She said seriously.

"Not that kind of manipulating, it's just making other willing to agree with me or my statement, or to do as my request without forcing them." He chuckled.

"Soo… It's kind of hustling people, huh?"

"Sort of… But still, it depends on the intention and the result, right…"

They reached to the cashier booth; Alice paid her things, and Ryan spent his book and walked their way out.

.

Since there was nothing harm Alice for a long time, Ryan had been letting his guard down. He had not carried his personal effects and worn his scratch-proof bodysuit. He might be so confident about his professional in martial arts and his strong body, then he became more careless. Now, it was time to test him. While they were walking giggling themselves along the walkway, a masked man wearing a thick sweater, blue jeans, and black sneakers walked toward them.

He put a gun out point to Alice and shouted, "DIE, GENMANS!"

Ryan widened his eyes in shock as he could not that coming. He jumped pushing Alice aside before he heard a loud gunshot and wished the bullet not hit her. As Alice flew aside and sat on the pavement, she looked her surrounding and saw her things scattered on the floor. Then, she saw Ryan lied down on the floor on the small pool of blood. She shocked as she watched him shaking and holding his left waist.

"R… Ryan…" She whimpered, reaching her hand to him. But, she was interrupted.

"RUN!" Ryan shouted. He looked back at her.

As she tried to run as he said, she flinched. She saw gun muzzle aimed at her face, and then she looked up to the man.

He smirked and said, "He can't save you anymore, and at this point blank, you will be dead… Any last word?"

She shook and stuttered as she saw his finger slowly pulled the gun trigger. She closed her eyes holding her hands to her ears, and she heard another gunshot. She could be dead, but somehow, she felt alive. She slowly opened her eyes and saw Ryan who used his left hand warded off the masked man's hand upward. He sternly grabbed the man's right wrist with his left hand. Ryan fisted his right hand and threw forcefully it to the man face. As hard as his punch could make the man flew away, the man was still in front of Ryan. He still held the man wrist high, pulling back to him and giving another blow of punch. Later, Ryan disarmed him, pushed the man down facing the floor, and locked him. After he had locked their attacker, He looked up to Alice and panted. He saw she was no harm, but Alice was frightened and sobbing.

"A…are you alright?" He asked.

"R… Ryan…" She stuttered, reaching her hand to him.

"Are you alright, Alice!?" He repeated.

Alice nodded in reply.

"Okay…" He panted and continued, "Can you please call…"

"Police! Stay where you are!" Police interrupted as he was running toward them.

"Officer… sir… this man tried to kill us with his gun…" Ryan stated and pointed to attacker's gun.

"Right… now, get off him and…" The police shocked after he saw Ryan blood bleeding on himself.

"You've been shot!"

"Yes… I am about to say that… hehe..." Ryan chuckled and fell back to the floor.

"Civilian injured! Need an ambulance here NOW!" The police radioed and cuffed the assailant.

"Ryan! No..no not again…" Alice ran, knelt next to him and held his head.

"Hang in there, boy" The police walked next to them.

Ryan's vision slowly faded, and he fainted.

.

"Is he gonna be okay, doctor?"

"Yes, he is. The bullet was scratched his left waist. No damage to his internal organs."

"Why didn't he wake up already?"

"Easy there, he fainted because he lost his blood, but not much to threaten his life."

"When will he wake up, doctor?"

"Anytime soon, but you should let him rest as much as his body wanted, understand?"

"Yes…"

"Well, we stitched and patched his wound, I will leave you two here."

"Yes…"

"Did you contact his family or his friend yet?"

"No need… His parents abandoned him… no one was with him, except us… We're his family now."

"Okay then, I leave now, if there is any problem with him or he's awake, please press the button."

"Yes, doctor, thank you…"

"You're welcome."

These were the conversation that Ryan could hear while he was sleeping. He felt someone stroking his hair gently as he heard the door shut.

"Oh, Ryan… Why did you do that? You could have died…" Sad sound of the familiar girlish voice belonged to no one else but Alice.

"Alice…" He groaned dizzily, opened his eyes, and continued. "Are you… okay, Alice?"

"Ryan… I'm the one to say that…" She softly scolded him making him chuckled.

.

The room went silent and awkward. Alice and Ryan avoided facing each other as their felt guilty. For Ryan, he should not let his guard down and careless. For Alice, she felt that she was going to lose someone important to her life.

"Ryan, I'm sorry for waking you up… You should go back to sleep…" She broke the silence.

"No need… I'm awake now and I… ouch… need to protect you." He whined from pain as he tried to sit up.

"Ryan! Stop! You hurt yourself. Doctor said that you need to rest from your blood loss. So, lay down." She tried to push him down.

"It's okay, my lady. It's just some scratch, isn't it?" He interrupted.

"Yes, but you still need to rest." She did not give up to put him down.

"Now, now, my lady." He gently put her hands away and continued. "It's my duty to serve and protect you as your bodyguard. Which I almost fail due to my reckless and careless, I'm sorry… But, I'm glad that you're survived… at least." He smiled sheepishly.

"But, you don't have to risk your life… You could have died, Ryan." She gave up pushing him down.

"Every job has its risk of death, and my job is one of the top risk of death on the job, besides police and soldier, of course." He tried to joke her.

"What will happen to us… What will we feel if you're dead, Ryan… What will Mariah, Anderson, Sam, everyone in the house… and I feel if you're gone?" She started to cry. Her tear was full on her eyes and shed down to her face. Her hands closed her eyes, and she sobbed terribly.

"I'm sorry, Alice. I hadn't thought of that. I'm sorry." He pulled Alice into his chest, hugging tightly. She sobbed and cried on his chest as he put his hand on her hair and stroked it.

He apologized her continuously patting her head until she calmed down. He wiped off her tear with his thumbs, then he brought her face to him pressing his lips against her affectionately. For several seconds, they parted.

"I think I should add 'no die on the job' to my job description." He chuckled.

"I think so…" She agreed, giggling herself.

"Well then…" He held her right hand with his left, and continued,

"I, Ryan Young, blah..blah..blah... And not be killed on duty." Then, he kissed her hand reminding of their vow.

"I, Alicia Himmel Genman, will remember that whatever you swore blah..blah..blah... And not die on the job." She giggled, cupped his face pulling to her, and kissed his forehead.

"You know you love me," Ryan smirked as she finished her kissed on his forehead and released him.

"Do I know that?" She replied. Then, she leaned toward him, pecked on his lips and whispered teasingly. "Yes… Yes, I really do. And…"

She walked back, put something out of her bag and walked back to him, hiding that thing on her back.

"I know it's too early, but I have something for you." She showed him a small dark blue gift box with a light blue ribbon tied it, tagged with 'Happy 2nd First Met Anniversary'.

"Happy our second first anniversary, Ryan. And, DO NOT OPEN till next week" She announced.

"Oh! Thank you, Alice. By the way, do you know where is my suit?" He asked

"It's here." She said as she picked up his things in the bag.

"Thanks… Now, here's for you too." Ryan rummaged the bag and pulled out a small sparkling pink rectangular box with a white ribbon tied it. "Happy anniversary to you too."


Day 731 'Departures'

A week passed since the malicious attack, Ryan had recovered himself quickly, but not fully. He could feel his wound stiff and painful, but he had to conceal his pain feeling. Sometimes, Alice had seen him softly whining and yelping in pain. She had told him to let other to watch over her, but Ryan had refused and said that it was just some itch. He tried to make a joke and funny thing to keep her worried away. However, she did not buy it till he showed his wound closed.

Aside from his injury, Alice had been worrying about the last week situation. After the police had arrested their assailant and brought Ryan to the hospital, she had ordered Anderson to help the police investigation. He obliged and helped the cops. Later, he had had the suspicion that the assailant had something to do with their acquaintance since the assailant intentionally tried to kill Alice. Anderson had told them about his hypothesis, and that was not some random kill. He had warned them that they were still in danger, and they needed to be vigilant. He would find out who was the real culprit soon.

It had taken a day after for Ryan to be discharged from the hospital. The doctor had warned him that he need not stress his body too much, or his wound would be opened again. Ryan had obeyed the doctor order and continued his routine as usual, but with caution. Since he had cleaned his wound and changed the bandage accordingly, his wound quickly healed.

.

Today was another important for Genman family which it was Genman Corp. Party Day. And also, for Alice and Ryan themselves, it was their first met anniversary. Now, it was time for Ryan to tell Alice time to go as he walked to her door knocking on it and saying,

"My lady, it's five now. Time to attend the party and don't be stubborn like last time."

"Coming…" Alice stated through the door.

As she opened the door, she was sure to surprise him. Alice wore a white shiny luxury dress with long white gloves.

"You sure know how to surprise me, huh, my lady." He complemented and grinned at her.

"And, you always look elegant as usual." She smiled in reply and continued, "Now, this time, did you bring your effects, huh?"

"Of course, I did." He showed her his holstered gun on his left, and knife on his right next to baton.

"And, scratch-proof bodysuit?" She continued.

"Yes." He answered.

"Okay, let's go."

"Yes, my lady."

.

As they walked to the front door, Sam stood waiting next to the limo and readied to start their journey. Ryan opened the passenger door for her to sit and close the door. Then, he moved to the other side and sat next to her, signaling Sam to begin their trip.

While they were on the way to the Genman Corp. building, Ryan watched the scenery through the windows as always. Later, he could feel something pressing on his shoulder. He looked over his shoulder, and it was Alice who pressed her head on him, sleeping. He saw how peaceful and beautiful she was, and watched her admiring. At the time he noticed her waking up, he asked,

"Do you feel creepy when I watch you sleeping?"

"Hmm… I think it kinda sweet." She passionately moaned and snuggled.

"Well, I took a picture of you." He smiled.

"Less sweet." Her eyes opened fully.

"I saw you drooling too." He chuckled.

"That's creepy." She jumped and wiped off on her face, but there was nothing.

"Ohhh… Liar." She groaned as he laughed.

"Just kidding, my lady…" He stopped laughing and asked Sam. "Now, we're almost there right, Sam?"

"Oh, yes. We're almost there… And, Ryan?" Sam asked.

"Yes?"

"I've been thinking… Did you remember Mr. Emmanuel?" Sam continued.

"Yes, how can't I… Emmanuel Leodore Sanus."

"Yeah… His company was bankrupted after Genman Corp. didn't buy and took over the business."

"And, what is this bothering us?" Alice joined the conversation.

"It's my hunch… I thought that the last week fiasco had something to do with him, master Alice," Sam answered.

"You think that Emmanuel wanted to avenge Alice," Ryan said.

"Isn't that overstatement," Alice argued.

"From what I heard and saw, I thought since he had lost his face from your argument last year and recent bankruptcy of his company due to the failure of negotiation. He has pretty much urge to avenge us." Sam stated.

While they were finding out, they reached their destination. Sam stopped the limousine letting Alice and Ryan got out of the car. But, before Ryan stepped out, Sam warned him,

"Please be careful, Ryan, and protect Alice at all cost. There is a possibility for Mr. Emmanuel to be the culprit."

"Thanks, Sam. I will." Ryan confirmed with a smile.

"Then, have a lovely evening, master Alice and you too, Ryan. Call me when you want to leave here." Sam bade them farewell.

"See you too, Sam." Alice and Ryan said in unison as Sam drove out, then they walked into the building.

.

Later Ryan and Alice walked into the elevator and rode to the top floor of the building where the party usually held, Ryan noticed that Alice seemed to be nervous and worried. He held her hand and squeezed her gently, reassuring her. She looked at his face and gave him a faint smile as he smiled back. It was a silent moment, yet Alice could feel warm and safe as they rode the elevator to reach the top floor.

The elevator opened its doors as it reached the top floor. Ryan led the way to the party. Since they arrived fast, Alice would be the host to open party ceremony.

Now, it was time for her to give an opening speech. She walked to the stage podium and delivered a speech as Ryan stood behind the shadow observing around as his duty.

"…Now, it's the time for the Genman Corp. anniversary party started!" She finished her speech as every guest applauded and acclaimed.

"I didn't know that you could give a cheerful speech, my lady." He admired.

"So, this is your first time, huh?" She teased.

"Of course, it's because, last year, someone was so stubborn and attended the party late. So, I missed this excellent speech." He chuckled.

"Oh, hush you." She pushed his chest playfully and giggled.

"Now, my lady, let's enjoy the party." He reached his hand out to hold her hand.

"Yeah… let's go." She replied accepting his hand.

.

Throughout the time they were enjoying themselves in the party greeting honorable guest, talking with the employee, and taking a selfie with them, Ryan got a message from Anderson.

The message stated that,

Ryan, we figured it out that who is the culprit.
From the confession of the assailant who
had attacked you,
he said that he was hired by Emmanuel Leodore Sanus
to assassinate her and act like he was insane. So,
good news is we know who is the real culprit, and
we press charge on him for murder attempt, but
the
bad news is we cannot locate him and have no clue
where would he be now. Please be on
fully alert.

Now Ryan was aware of what was going to happen. He thought that Emmanuel would be here at any moment and started the attack again. But, to keep the situation away from becoming chaos, he had to plan.

Better safe than sorry, Ryan thought. Then he signaled one of the security guards to him, and whispered,

"Tell your supervisor that there could be a possibility of Mr. Emmanuel Leodore Sanus to come and rampage the party here anytime. So, be on highest alert, secure and prevent him or any suspect coming to the party."

"Sir, isn't that a bit…" The security guard tried to argue.

"Please for our company sake, I will take responsibility for any cost occurred if nothing happens." Ryan interrupted.

"Alright, sir." The security guard replied and walked away.

.

Now for fail-safe, Ryan thought. He texted Sam to be nearby the building and texted Anderson that he alerted all security guard, and wanted Anderson to send a helicopter in case of emergency.

"Is there anything I need to know, Ryan?" Alice questioned him as he finished his text.

"Oh! Mr. Anderson said that he knew who the culprit, and it is Emmanuel Leodore Sanus. But, he couldn't find out where he is hiding, so I tell the security guard to be alert and check on entrants for him or any suspect. So, don't worry, my lady. I'm here for you if anything happens." Ryan stated.

"I hope there is not…" She stopped as the loud sound of the explosion boomed from the hall entrance door. Then, the dark gray smoke covered the door along with the small scattered objects slowly fell from the air. The lied down employee and guest moaned in pain, and some died from the explosion. Then, a group of masked people walked through the smoke, raising their gun shooting in the air.

"Where is Genmans?" One of them shouted as the group looked around.

Ryan secured Alice, hiding behind the stage. Ryan held his gun by his right hand as his left texted to Anderson to hurry the helicopter. When he finished texting, he peeked his head out to see the situation and looked backed to Alice who was frightened. He shook her gently to bring her sense back and said,

"Alice, Mr. Anderson is coming with helo for our extraction."

"W…what's about the employees and guests?" She asked.

"The security guard will be there for them." He replied.

"But…" She tried to argue.

"Alice, don't you remember that your company hired the most professional security guard in the world. So, let them do their job and let's get out of here." He interrupted.

She nodded in agreement. However, one of the masked assailants spotted them, and shouted,

"Hey! Boss! They're here." He pointed his gun to Ryan and Alice, shooting at them.

Fortunately for them that not bullet hit, Ryan ran out of the backstage, holding Alice's hand to the back door. Ryan closed and placed something to obstacle the way. Then, they continued running into the small employee hallway to the exit door where led them to the main hallway and the helipad. But, as they reached the other side of the way, the door was chained and locked.

"Ryan, can you shoot the lock?" She asked in a hurry.

"No, the bullet could reflect back and might harm us." He explained. Then, he slid his baton out and hit the lock. He hit it several times till the lock was broken, kicked the door and continued their run. But, shortly, he felt hurt on his wound and touched his wound, there was a small stain of blood on his hand.

Geez… Not now. He thought as he groaned and slowed down.

"Ryan, what's happen?" She asked running back to him.

"The wound's opened, but it's okay. It's just scratch. Let's continue. The helicopter is nearly there by now." He stood up and slowly run again.

"HERE! THEY'RE HERE!" One of the assailants shouted and shot at them.

"Oh boy… they're coming… Ah… Our ride is here too." Ryan pointed at the incoming helicopter.

"Ryan, they will get us before we reach the helo," Alice stated.

"No, they won't" He held her up in bridal style and ran as fast as he could.

He ran to the doors and kicked them opening. He continued running as the assailants shot at them and their helicopter. The aircraft door opened showing Anderson, and unexpectedly, Mariah held the gun as other guards as well countered back. However, the helicopter could not land on the helipad as there was a shooting, it floated near the building. Ryan who held Alice ran through the gun fight to the aircraft. He saw that there was a long gap between the edge of the helipad and the helicopter. But, the risk had to be taken, he knew he could jump far yet not that far.

At least she can be safe, Ryan thought while he hastily ran to the edge and jumped off the helipad. In the air, he saw himself slowly fell. Biting his lip, Ryan used all of his strength pushed Alice from his arms toward the opened door of the helicopter. According to his thoughts, she made it and was safe. He faintly smiled, seeing Anderson and Mariah quickly grabbed Alice and brought her in. Alice looked back to Ryan and shocked as she saw him falling, and cried out,

"No!… Ryan!" She reached her hand out to him trying to grab him. But, she could not, it was too far for her. All she saw was his mouth moved into,

"I'm sorry, Alice." His vision turned to black, and the sound of wind faded to silence.

.

That was the last time I saw her… and everyone… He thought. I'm so sorry…

My flashback memory is finished… Soon, I will be dead…

The silence and darkness slowly embraced him. Ryan could feel that he was floating, but his floating began to descend. His back felt something soft yet hard as he finally landed. His hand felt some thin leaves. Then his sense of sound came back after he heard the faint sound of blowing wind and rustling leaves. He felt the warm and gentle breeze as it blew across his face. Then, he took a deep breath of the refreshing air.

Now, I am in heaven now… He thought again.

I should rest as much as I am in peace… Then he continued to sleep.

"I heard something falling here." It was a small, cheerful, feminine voice.

"Hey slow down, Fluff." The little sly tone masculine sound stated.

"C'mon, Slick. There… uh…"

"Carrots… What… Is… It?"

Urghhh… I try to sleep here… Wait a minute! Something seems familiar here… He reminded in his thoughts,

Slick? Carrots? Oh boy…

.

Ryan opened his eyelids slowly and noticed that he was laying down under a tree. He sat up and looked around. There was a large stone but modern building across with 'ZPD' stated on it. Later, he looked down seeing a gray, black tipped ear, violet eyes rabbit wearing a blue uniform with Kevlar vest on it, and a red, green eyes fox dressed in a loose blue uniform. They looked surprised and stood.

Ryan rubbed his eyes and massaged his temples. Letting some groan sigh, he focused and looked his surround again.

"A…are you alright… sir?" The rabbit asked.

"Carrots, I think we should step back and call a backup." The fox said to the rabbit.


'Am I dead or just being… alive again…'

End of Prologue 2 'Alive Again'