The Sleuth Project ✓

Chapter 3: The Game Begins

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The Game Begins

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PLAY: "Joke's on You" by Charlotte Lawrence

"AH, MR. Maccio! So glad of you to join us!" Professor Wyanna Perlita exclaimed as soon as the young man let out a deep cough, trying to compose himself.

Ann, who was amused at his reaction, scrutinized her disoriented rival.

"Miss Lobris and I were just having a splendid conversation about the evolution of the Writers' Schism throughout the years. But now that you're here, I think it's time for me to pull out the registration form." The professor grinned before pulling the drawer on her desk to reveal a few pens, folders and papers.

"You may sit opposite to Miss Lobris." The kind director of the Writers' Schism added as she rummaged through her vintage drawer.

"Thank you, professor." Rein said, clearing his voice as Ann watched him sit opposite to her.

Sakto naman ay biglang nag-ring ang kulay itim na telepono sa mesa ni Professor Perlita, na agad rin niyang sinagot. While the professor spoke to someone who seemed to be a parent, Ann was still smiling smugly at her rival.

"Never knew you were this interested in writing, Maccio." Ann remarked, a teasing hint on her voice. She felt that this was the perfect time to converse with him while the professor was busy.

"I never knew you were this interested either." Rein replied with a low chuckle, finally reclaiming his composure. "Although, I should have known you were joining. I read your piece from the PLUMA event the other day. Congratulations."

"Thanks." Ann said proudly, her legs and arms still crossed in a smug manner. "Being Castillo High's representative was a thrill."

"So it seems." Rein chuckled, fiddling with the Maccio family ring in his right finger. He knew damn well that Ann was being smug over besting him in joining two important writing competitions.

Nevertheless, he wasn't going to let Ann win any further this time.

Sakto naman na ibinaba na ng propesor ang telepono at saka binalikan muli ang paghahanap ng registration forms.

"O siya, balik tayo. Ano bang category ng Writers' Schism ang sasalihan niyong dalawa?" The professor asked the two absent-mindedly, seemingly still caught up with the phone conversation she just had.

"The full-length novel category, professor." Ann said quickly, flashing Rein with another of her fake smiles. Most of the time, it satisfied the young girl whenever she got the chance to be one step ahead of her rival. "It's more fulfilling to write a full-length story than it is writing a short novella, isn't it Maccio?"

Rein nodded with tense politeness before clearing his throat, trying to hide his amusement and annoyance that Ann was participating in the same category that he was going for. 

"Full-length novel category... Ah, here we go!" Professor Perlita suddenly exclaimed as she laid out a clear folder on her desk that contained the registration form of the Writers' Schism for the full-length novel category.

"Write your names and contact details on the form and both of you will be officially registered for the contest." Sabi ng propesor sa kanila. "After which, the board will then further instruct you along the way. Now, ladies first!"

The old woman then handed a fountain pen to Ann who gave Rein a wink, scribbling on the paper in a dainty manner. She then signed it with a flourish before handing the pen to Rein.