We eventually reach Stace's place early evening, chilling in their entertainment area. "I have some new material we can discuss at our next band practice," Li says. She is an extremely talented songwriter. Her music and lyrical style is a blend of K-Pop and alternative rock. We are definitely in for an explosion of creativity. Eben gets my attention and points to the door. "I'm going to give my mom a call," I say and move towards the door.

"I just need some fresh air," Eben says and follows me. The rest of the crew don't even notice us leaving. They having a heated debate on the lyrical talent between SuperM and BTS.

"What's up?" I ask as soon as we outside.

"Why couldn't I read your mind?" he asks, completely baffled.

"When exactly?" I ask.

"Earlier, when you were deciding my fate," he explains.

"Oh, so that explains the odd look you gave me," I laugh. "I mentally blocked out everyone when we entered our very confidential discussion," I smirk.

"This has never happened before. No human was able to build a temporary wall around their mind," he replies in disbelief.

"Until now..." I smile, winking at him. His cheeks have a faint red tinge to it. That's quite interesting.

"Also, I was meaning to ask you...uhm...for your number?" he asks nervously.

"What for?" I ask. I can see the look of surprise flash in his eyes.

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"I just thought it would be good to stay connected..er...for missions..." he gingerly replies. He runs his hands through his black, curly hair, waiting for me to answer.

"010-596-2330, got it?" I say. I am rewarded with one of his million-watt smiles. I am basking in its brightness as we head back inside.

When I get home, the intensity of my new reality hits me really hard. And it feels like I'm falling into an endless pit. I run to my room and reach for Black Beauty. I strum a few strings to match my mood. The music starts swirling around me, surrounding me with its healing energy, safely in its cocoon I find myself indulging in its richness. My eyes are still closed long after I stopped playing.

My phone beeps. There are two messages from an unknown number.

Hey, Allyssa-Coco, I just got home, Eben.

Me again, please message me, so that I know you gave me your real number, Eben.

I burst out laughing because this doesn't sound like the confident Eben I know.

Hi, mind-reader, yes, this my real number, Allyssa-Coco.

Eben's message comes through seconds later,

Would it be okay if I give you a call..now?

I giggle like the teenage girl I am.

Sure.

My phone rings. "Hello," I answer.

"Hi, Fast one," he replies. "Do you want to see how high I can jump?" he asks. Okay, I did not expect that question but, hey, let's roll with it.

"Sure, should be interesting," I answer.

"Great!" he exclaims. "Can I come over?" he asks.

"You want to come over now?!" I nearly shout.

"Yes," he confirms.

"Eben, I don't think that's such a good idea. It's late and my parents will probably, no definitely, not allow you into our home," I explain.

"Come on, blue eyes, I really want to show you," he begs.

"I don't --" I start.

"Blue, please..." he says.

I can't take the begging and agree.

"Cool, I'll see you in a bit," he says and ends the call. I start pacing up and down, devising a Plan B when my phone rings again. "I'm outside," he says.

"How?" I ask while walking to my window.

I see him standing under our tree, waving at me. Unbelievable! He grins from ear to ear. I am feeling giddy with excitement. I open the window and he runs towards me.

"Are you afraid of heights?" he asks.

"No," I reply.

"Good," he responds and smiles.