Level 0: Chapter 3 part 1 of 3

Rejection wasn’t a particularly nice feeling, once again I had come to experience it firsthand. Looking into the eyes of the woman who other people might call Sabine affectionately, I realized I probably was worth less than an earthworm.

I sighed and decided against continuing this disgraceful performance,

“Sorry, I-I need to…” I took a step back as I started a 180 turn, all the while awkwardly motioning with my head and thumbs for my cue.

“Yeah…” Hands on the bar, she nodded indifferently as she gave me this knowing glare.

Too ashamed to remain in the place any longer, I was making my way to the door when my phone rang.

A bit startled and groggy due to the shock and shame, I dropped my phone on the floor, next to a walking staff member.

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The guy who I almost ran into picked it up and gave it back to me as I thanked him and apologized.

“Don’t sweat it, dude.” The guy waved me off, “It happens to the best of us.” He said as he smiled at me, with an expression of empathy.

“What do you mean?” I replied defensively, even though I swear, I could discern pity in the guy’s expression.

He just shrugged as he put a hand on my shoulder and left me thinking. At that moment, I couldn’t look any more stupid and out of place than ever.

I saw a few people dodging my field of vision as I looked around and heard some giggles in my back. Red like an apple, I fled for the restroom and hid inside the nearest toilet cabin.

“What did you even expect you, idiot?! That’s what you get for going with the flow.” I said to myself as I regained my senses.

“Hmm? Looks like they got worried.” I realized as I looked at the phone screen, which had one missing call from Mifune.

“Hello,” I said after someone picked up the call.

“Ryuma? Where are you right now?!” The charming voice at the other end said.

“I’m at the bar but…” I was cut halfway.

“Come to the second floor right away, I’ll have Arisa meet you at the stairs.” The voice said categorically.

“...” I stayed silent, thinking how I wanted to leave right now.

“Don’t even think about chickening out now! I went all out today for you.” She stopped me before I could say more. “Hehe, You’ll probably regret it all your life if you don’t come actually.” She mocked in a derisive tone.

“Whatever. I’m coming okay?” I wanted to thank her but the words got stuck.

“Alright! Don’t drop your jaw when you get here. See you in a bit.”

She teased as she hung up.