TRIP TO LIBERTY (FREENBECKY)

Chapter 13

Becky's POV

Amidst the lively chatter and clinking of cutlery, Jennie's playful comment resonated with a certain truth. 

"None of our class is sane." she quipped, her tone tinged with a mixture of humor and fond exasperation.

I couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at her assertion. 

"Including yourself?"

Jennie's laughter echoed around the table as she leaned in conspiratorially. 

"Especially myself. It's a miracle none of us managed to kick the bucket within the first three days of this voyage."

A chuckle escaped me, her perspective offering a fresh layer of amusement to our shared history. The trials and tribulations of their high school days were now a source of amusement, a testament to the bond they had forged over the years.

The meal continued, the mood light and carefree. It was during the dessert course that Kentaro Ito, ever the unassuming figure, approached their table. He set a dessert in front of me, a gesture that couldn't be mistaken for anything other than a secret admiration he harbored. With a polite nod, he left just as quickly as he arrived.

Jennie nudged me playfully, a knowing glint in her eyes. 

"Look at sweet baby Ito, bringing you dessert like a true knight in shining armor."

I smirked, acknowledging the gentle teasing. 

"He's always been kind." She added.

Jennie's gaze held a hint of mischief as she leaned in, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. 

"Oh, come on, Becky. We all know he's been crushing on you. It's cute how he's keeping the tradition alive."

A laugh escaped me, her words a reminder of the intricate dynamics that had woven their lives together. As the conversation flowed, I couldn't ignore the topic that had been carefully sidestepped until now. With a sip of my drink, I decided it was time to share a bit more.

"I should let you know, Jennie." I began, a playful smile dancing on my lips. 

"I'm taken. Completely and utterly unavailable."

Jennie's eyes widened, her intrigue evident. 

"Oh. Of course, Saint."

"No. He's just a friend."

Jennie raised an eyebrow, curiosity brimming in her expression. 

"I-I figured. A-and is he alright with you and Saint you know--"

"Oh. Believe me I tried, but he's definitely not the jealous type." I honestly told her.

"C-cool. So, what does this boyfriend of yours do for a living?"

I hesitated for a brief moment, my eyes meeting hers. 

"Y-you know, office stuff. Government work."

Jennie's laughter was contagious, the playfulness of our conversation enveloping us both. 

"Office stuff? You're killing me with the specifics, Beck. Tell me his name."

I leaned in, my voice dropping lower as I played along. 

"Gotta keep it mysterious, you know."

Jennie's eyes twinkled with a mix of amusement and determination. 

"Alright, alright. Can you at least give me a clue?"