His Prize

Chapter 21: Request

The breakfast toast reminds me of the Paul's Kitchen I saw at the mall. After my failed escape attempt, we left immediately, skipping Paul's Kitchen. I look over the table to Alex and try to gauge his mood. Has he forgiven me? Maybe we can still go?

He seems rather preoccupied with his phone. Maybe now isn't the best time?

I finish washing the dishes and decide to just go for it. He's sitting on the couch.

I stand in front of him, and his eyes land on me.

"Hey, Alex?" I hold onto my shirt collar.

He gestures for me to get on with it.

"I was wondering... If we could maybe go to Paul's Kitchen?"

"Absolutely not." I flinch at his voice. "I cannot believe you have the audacity to make that suggestion after you threw it in my face last time."

This was a mistake. I hang my head. "Sorry," I whisper, retreating to my room.

I cover my face. How could I be so stupid? Of course he's not going to take me to Paul's Kitchen. He's not my friend. He's my owner. Why did I ever think that would work? I just made a fool of myself for nothing.

My bedroom door opens, and he sits next to me on the bed.

I keep my eyes on the floor. I just embarrassed myself in front of him. I don't want to be seen.

"You know, I was thinking," he begins, "You handled yourself well last night. I know that teeth inspection was difficult for you, and I think you deserve a reward. I'll take you to Paul's Kitchen tomorrow."

I look up at him. "For real?"

"Yes. It's also my last day off from work, so there's no better time."

"Thanks." I look back at my hands. Even though he phrased it as if I was a dog getting a treat for good behaviour, I'm still glad he's taking me.

"I've found a new dungeon in Fantasy-Craft. Feel like helping me clear it?"

"Sure." I smile.

* * * * * * * *

The next day arrives, and all I can think about is Paul's Kitchen. From what I could see from last time, it looks like it hasn't changed at all. It'll be just like when I was a kid.

I've picked out a nice outfit for the occasion. I still don't own any shoes, so my long pants look a little odd.

"We'll leave in a few minutes. Do you remember how you're supposed to present yourself?" he asks.

Right... That... "Yea."

I fetch the chain from my room. Taking a deep breath, I lock it around my neck. I wait for him at the front door, with the key in hand.

He looks pleased with himself as I hand him the key. Whatever. It's still worth it.

We get in the car and begin our journey.

I don't recognise any of the buildings. "This looks different from last time."

"There're many Paul's Kitchens around town. We're going to a closer one."

A few minutes later, he parks the car.

"I don't see any Paul's Kitchen around here." Is this just a trick to get me to go somewhere without a fight?

"We've got to walk the rest of the way."

We walk side by side down a long street.

I'm relieved when the familiar logo finally comes into view. He wasn't lying.