137.The next morning, the students were all gathered on their sides of the campsite. Ms. Zara walked into their middle followed by Ms. Emma. “Good morning, Students,” Zara began, a face beaming with smiles. “Today, you will be going egg hunting!” she announced, and the students began cheering and applauding. “I and Ms. Emma have hidden eggs all around the campsite, and it’s your job to find them. The team with the most eggs by the time the whistle is blown wins,” she said.Dina and her gang glared at the mass comm students, their faces holding a challenge. Amber only rolled her eyes, her attention fixed on Henry, who smiled at her.“This year, there is going to be a twist,” Zara continued, a smile tugging at the side of her lips. “This year, we are merging the two departments together. We will be pairing you two, and you’d have to work together to find the eggs.”The students gasped, murmuring as they looked at each other. “But, Ms. Zara, that’s not fair. What’s the point of competi
138.When the final whistle blew, the students returned with their eggs in their baskets. While Ms. Zara and Ms. Emma went around counting and making records, the students, who were able to bond got to know each other better.Meanwhile, when she got to Amber’s group, she raised a brow. Dina stood two steps away from Amber, Melissa and Henry, and only her basket had eggs in it. Zara only sighed and recorded their scores before finishing the rest.The entire place fell silent as Ms. Zara and Ms. Emma read out the scores of each group.“And finally,” Ms. Zara said, her voice loud, “the winner of this year's Egg Hunt Challenge is…the group of Axel, Jack, Rachel, and Maria with a score of 50 eggs.”The students erupted in cheers as the victorious group was called out, Jack’s face glowing with pride as he raised his hand in victory. Amber and Melissa cheered for them.“And the excellence award for the most hard working at finding the eggs goes to Maria!” she announced, and they all clapped.
139.“Help! Amber is in trouble!” Dina exclaimed as she ran into the campground.Axel, Jack and Henry jumped to their feet. “What!” Three of them exclaimed at the same time. “Where?”“She’s getting chased by a bear!” Dina screamed.All the students rushed to their feet while Axel and the rest ran after Dina as she led them. They picked up whatever weapon they could see on the floor and followed the bear’s growls. Axel felt like his heart was about to drop to the ground. He didn’t have the time to ask what Amber went there to do. He just wanted to save her first.Meanwhile, Amber managed to lead the bear away from the campsite. She had wanted to avoid putting the rest of the students in danger. The best was relentless as it kept chasing after her. Amber wan as fast as her legs could carry her, while searching for a place to hide from the bear, but it was already dark making it hard to see clearly.Amber screamed as she tripped on a stone and fell to the floor, causing the bear to catch
140.YEAR 2“Oh, Amber, I can’t believe you will be turning nineteen on Sunday.” Melissa giggled, beaming at Amber.Amber chuckled. “Relax, Mel. Today is just Friday.” she giggled, feeling all giddy despite herself. It seemed Melissa had transferred the psychic energy to her.Melissa scoffed, waving it off. “Sunday is just two days away, girlie. Besides, it’s gonna mark a year that you and Axel made magic,” she beamed, wearing a dreamy expression. “Remember the dance on the night of your eighteenth birthday party?” Amber looked up, daydreaming about how magical it was, and now much time had passed since them. Now she was in her second year in the university, Axel and Cole were in their final year and things haven’t really changed. She and Axel were still like two peas in a pod. Their relationship was even getting healthier and sweeter, and she felt like the luckiest girl in the world.Not to mention, she was now the Queen Bee of the school. Well, she got that title after the camping
141.BIRTHDAY DAY...."Absolutely stunning," Melissa breathed as she looked at Amber, who stood before the mirror dressed in a mesmerizing black off shoulder dress. The dress stopped a little above her knee with sparkling diamonds adorning it, giving Amber this sophisticated and hot vibes.Amber's long, midnight black hair cascaded down her shoulders in gentle waves, framing her face and highlighting her delicate features. The black heels she wore added to her already impressive height, making her seem even more statuesque.Melissa continued to admire Amber's beauty. “With that dress, and those diamonds, you’re going to be the star of the party tonight. I mean you are the star obviously but you're gonna turn heads. Axel will be head over heels for you.”Amber blushed at the mention of Axel “Thanks, Melissa. I hope he likes it. I wanted to look perfect tonight. It is a big night for both of us.”Melissa grinned mischievously. “Big night indeed. Oh, I can't wait to see what Axel has in
142.Amber burst out laughing. "Gosh, you're so good at pranking people. You made it look so real. You can't be serious. A break up?" she laughed it off, her heart beating wildly in her chest.Axel's expression made her blink as she took a step closer to him. He moved back, not wanting to be close to her. Amber raised an eyebrow. "You're being serious? Are you being serious right now?" she asked. What the heck was going on? Why was he asking for a breakup?Axel nodded his head. "Yes, I'm serious," he began, putting up a brave front as he willed himself to look into her eyes, but seeing the tears gathering in them, he looked away. "I'm tired of this relationship. I thought I could put up with you, but I can't do this anymore. I've gotten what I wanted, so it's time I set you free.""Gotten what you wanted?" Amber asked. "What are you talking about? Why do you want to break up after everything we've been through together? This doesn't make any sense," she sighed, trying to think. "We di
143.Cole barged into the living room, a frown settled on his face. Axel, noticing his presence, stood to his feet and faced Cole. "What do you think you're doing?" Cole asked, his voice calm at first as he tried to control his anger. "What the heck do you think you're doing, Axel? Why would you break Amber's heart like that?" he yelled this time around. If Cole hadn't come out and seen Axel walking out while Amber was slumped on the floor, crying her eyes out, he wouldn't have believed this. He would have thought this was a terrible prank. At first he had wanted to wait until the next day and confront Axel, but when Amber passed out and they had to rush her to the hospital, Cole couldn't sit still. He couldn't watch his sister in pains.Axel stood with an unreadable expression on his face. "Why are you acting like this is such a big deal? I only broke up with her, I didn't kill her," he replied nonchalantly and Cole couldn't believe his ears. Cole balled his fists, trying his best
144.Next day..."I can't believe it, Melissa! I really can't!" Amber sobbed in Melissa's arms while Melissa patted her back, trying to console her."I know, I know, Amber," Melissa said, her voice empathetic. "I can't believe it either. Something is definitely wrong somewhere. Axel wouldn't just break up with you out of the blue." she said, trying to convince herself as well. It was so strange. She recalled how excited Axel had been for Amber's birthday. The whole surprise and gift stuff were his idea. Everything that happened yesterday was because of him. She wondered why he would just return from his father's place and break up with Amber. Melissa was sure that wasn't the whole story. Axel wouldn't just tell Amber he was using her and stuff. The few months they've been together hadn't really hinted at him using her. Their love was genuine."I have to call him," Amber pulled away from the hug and began searching for her phone. "I need him to give me more explanation, Mel. There is
086.Laura sat in a coffee shop, her feet tapping relentlessly on the floor. Vera had gone to get them drinks but that was the least of her problems right now. She knew Gina was the one responsible for the beating she received, but she had no idea how Amber was able to clear her name in just a small amount of time.This only confirmed her suspicion that there was someone helping her form the sidelines. But who could that be? And why did the girl who helped to get the man caught look so familiar?"Something is fishy!" "Laura, did you hear, Amber has gotten all her opportunities back. Lots of companies are calling to get interviewed by her. They were moved by now she took care of the case and gave the police the leverage to catch the abuser." Vera dropped the coffee on the table and sat down.Laura groaned. "I hate how this is turning out, Gina. We need to do something about it.""That's not all. Ms. June has given her the cover page for the Mainland Tech Conference Article. If she pu
085.Amber's face lit up when she saw Larissa walking out of the club. She got down from the car and rushed to hug her. "You're back!" she gave Larissa a peck on the cheek. "You did it! My reputations cleared. I watched everything."Larissa smirked. "Told you not to worry about anything. Did you think it wouldn't work out when the plane was Axel's?"Amber raised a brow. "I thought it was your idea."Larissa shook her head. "It was all Axel's. I only agreed to be the bait," she said and Amber smiled."I'm grateful to you both. Now I feel relieved that it's all been taken care of. I can sleep with a smile now." Larissa chuckled.~•~•~The next day...GLAM MAGAZINE Amber walked into her department and Gina rushed to her. "Oh you have no idea how happy I am that you're finally back to work. The man has been caught by the police. Turns out, he was brutally beaten by the ladies he harassed. He's currently being questioned and you my dear, have gotten your fans back."Amber scoffed as she
084."Hey, beautiful," the man drawled, his voice low and seductive.Larissa's grip on the glass tightened, her brows twitching as she fought the urge to punch him in the face and give him a good beating. She quickly forced a smile to her face and turned to face him. "Hi." she answered and looked away. All she had to do was play hard to get and he was going to try forcing himself on her for sure.The man took a seat beside her. "Can I buy you a drink? A beautiful lady like you shouldn't sit here all alone, you know." his eyes roamed her body as his tongue ran over his lips.Larissa rolled her eyes. "As you can see, I already have a drink. And it's not bad to be alone, is it?" she asked."So you're really alone," he smiled to himself and moved closer. Larissa noticed this and leaned back. "You know," he began, his voice dropping to a whisper. "I saw the way you danced a few minutes ago. Mind if we get a room and you can show me privately? I'd love to see it up close." he touched her la
083.KING'S MANSION The family was seated in the dining room, having a nice relaxing dinner. Kevin looked at Axel, who seemed to be in a good mood. It's been a while he saw Axel actually eat enough food like he did.His gaze darted to Larissa and Maverick. They were also in good moods. Were these kids hiding something from him? Besides, he saw the scandal with Amber. They couldn't be smiling at a time like this, right?Knowing Axel, he would have thrown a tantrum and dealt with whoever did it. But here the young man was, eating like he was celebrating.When he couldn't take it anymore, he dropped the fork and knife he was holding, making a clanging sound on the plate that drew the trio's attention. They all turned to look at him."You three, what's going on?" he asked, his gaze narrowed at them.The three of them exchanged confused glances, having no idea what Kevin was talking about. "Uncle, what are you talking about?" Larissa was the first to ask.Kevin scoffed. "Are you trying to
082.“No! There's no way I'm letting you do that. What if it backfires? Promiscuous men like him can do anything to women.” Amber declined after Larissa told her about the plan. “C'mon, Amber,”“No, Larissa,” she sighed. “You are an idol. You have fans all over the world. Do you have any idea what this would cost you if it backfires? No way am I letting you go to that club and be the bait.” Larissa chuckled and took a seat beside Amber. “I like the fact that you underestimate me, Amber,” she smirked. “Look, I know how the club works. And I know what makes stupid bastards like that idiot tick. Do you think I'd go there with no backup? Trust me. It will only be just to lure him into the trap.”Amber sighed. “I don't know, Larissa.”“Amber listen, I'm sick and tired of seeing mean comments against you. Many jealous reporters are using this opportunity to ruin you the more. They might have been quiet because they saw nothing to use against you, but now, they are trying to ruin your rep
081.Amber pulled away from the kiss and cupped Axel's cheeks, her eyes shining with love for him. Axel raised a brow at her. “What was that about?” he asked amidst chuckles.Amber batted her lashes at him. “Don't you like it?” she asked, her voice small.Axel’s eyebrows shot up in surprise, then a grin spread across his face. “Well, now.” he drew Amber closer, wrapping his arms around her waist. “I do like it. But I can’t say I’m not a little bit surprised.” his voice was low and gravelly, making Amber’s heart flip-flop in her chest.Amber blushed, but she couldn’t look away from his intense gaze. “I had to do something to thank you,” she whispered. “For everything.”Axel’s eyes softened as he stared at her. “Amber, you don’t have to thank me for anything. I’ll always be here for you. No matter what.” He pressed his forehead against hers, their lips inches apart. “And I want you to know, I love you too.”Amber’s heart skipped a beat. She wrapped her arms around him. They've been thro
080.“So, how long have you and Mr. A been together?” Larissa asked during their break.Amber was taken aback by the question. “What? He and I are not together.” she answered.Larissa chuckled. “Seriously? Are you telling me that you two feel nothing for each other, or he feels nothing for you?” she asked, handing a chocolate bar to Amber.“Aren't dancers supposed to eat healthy snacks?” Amber asked, her gaze on the chocolate as she tried to change the topic.Larissa raised an eyebrow. “First of all, this is dark chocolate, which is supposed to be good for you. Second of all, don't change the subject.” she pointed her finger at Amber. “Now, tell me. Are you and Axel just friends, or is there more to it?”Amber fidgeted with the wrapper of the chocolate, avoiding Larissa's gaze. “We…we're just friends,” she insisted, though her voice wasn't quite as convincing as she'd hoped.Larissa smirked. “Uh huh,” she leaned forward, her eyes glinting with mischief. “Okay, let me break this down f
079.Axel continued patting her on the back as she cried. Amber couldn't help the tears. She melted into his arms while he kissed her hair. “Hey, stop crying, okay?” he said and she nodded.Axel pulled away from the hug and placed his hands on her shoulders. “Look at me,” he said and Amber looked up at him with a tear stained face. Axel used his thumb to wipe her tears and smiled at her. “You're a strong woman, Cat eyes. You don't need to let them know they've gotten you. I know you were set up, your friends know that as well, and your loyal fans too.”Amber nodded. “I'm just so hurt and annoyed.”“I understand,” Axel said. “And I won't let that motherfucker get away with hurting you. He's just dug his own grave for hurting my woman.”Amber smiled, a blush crawling up her cheeks. “You still call me your woman in such playful tone while I'm really annoyed here?”Axel leaned forward and rolled strands of hair into his index finger. “Why not? At least I got a smile from you.” he said, hi
078.GLAM MAGAZINE Amber walked into the company the next day, but something felt different. The employees were murmuring and talking in hush voices as she walked by. Her brows creased. What was going on? She was still in a sour mood from what happened yesterday, what was going on today?She walked into her department and Laura walked to her. “Oh, what a slut you are. I should have known that you got all your fame because you sleep with me that are old enough to birth you.”Amber frowned. “What the heck are you yammering on about?” she asked.Laura snickered. “You're a journalist. The news should be something you check every damn fucking day. I always knew you were pompous, now you've gone outside to show the world just how terrible you are.” Amber shook her head and walked to her desk. She knew bantering with Laura won't yield any results. The girl will only end up getting her to lose her temper, and she didn't want that.She brought her phone out and switched her data on. Her eyes