The camera panned in just as Zeno arrived on the stage.
"It appears you gave your number to Shelly," Gene PD said lightly, "so now—you're first."
Shelly's head jerked up from the mention of her name, guilt plastered all over her face. She had been watching Zeno the entire time, unable to concentrate much because she felt bad.
Zeno turned slightly in her direction.
"It's alright," he answered. A small, crooked smile pulled at his lips. "I want to rest after this."
A few people in the viewing room snorted, finding him funny yet cocky at the same time.
Phoenix just scoffed in disbelief, but didn't say a word this time.
Back onstage, Zeno's delivery had made Shelly bow her head, this time in something closer to relief. Her heart still felt tight, but the guilt didn't strangle her quite as hard anymore.
Mr. Kim clicked his tongue once, leaning forward just a little in his seat. The light bounced off his pupils as he looked directly at Zeno.
