LMUC Ch 2
by mimiWhen Koi hastily asked, recalling that one of their classmates had recently manifested as an Omega, Ashley nodded readily.
“Well, most don’t manifest.”
Statistically, the chances of becoming an Alpha or Omega were indeed very low. Koi believed he would live and die as a Beta for his entire life.
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
If this guy were to manifest, he’d definitely be an Alpha.
An Alpha version of Ashley Miller would probably suit him well. He already seemed to spread pheromones wherever he went, so it wouldn’t be much different.
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
“Isn’t it hard to keep up with sports if you manifest?”
“Most quit. Being a pro is absolutely out of the question.”
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
For Alphas and Omegas, there are several restrictions due to heat cycles, one of which is the inability to be a professional athlete. This is because during the season, if the heat cycle arrives, it could disrupt games and affect the team. Individual sports might allow one to skip a season, but team sports were different. Although suppressants could be used to get through the season, this significantly lowered the athlete’s condition and was considered harmful to their health, leading professional teams to prefer Betas or Gammas who don’t have heat cycles. No team owner would take the risk in games where billions of dollars are at stake.
“Have you ever done a manifestation prediction test?”
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
When Koi asked, Ashley shook his head.
“No, have you?”
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
“I haven’t.”
Koi answered honestly.
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
“There’s no point since I’d be a Beta anyway.”
“Me too.”
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
For some reason, it felt like Ashley was brushing off the topic. Maybe he didn’t like talking about it much.
As Koi looked around for another topic, his eyes caught the clock on the wall. It was almost 9 PM. The restaurant would close soon. Realizing this, Koi understood he had gotten too excited talking to the school celebrity.
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
We met because of the assignment, get your mind together!
Chiding himself, Koi hastily got back to the main point.
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
“Uh, so, what do you think about organizing it this way? We each do our research and exchange it by email. We’ll organize our parts separately, and when we meet next, we can set the table of contents and chapters. How does that sound?”
“Sounds good.”
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
After speaking, Ashley wiped his mouth with a napkin. The plates that had filled the table were now empty.
“Then we’re done talking? Can I go now?”
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
“Uh, yeah, sure.”
Koi quickly pulled out the money for the drink and placed it on the table. Ashley checked the bill brought by the employee, took out his card, and handed it back to her. Koi felt his heart race when he saw Ashley casually circling 20% for the tip.
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
The tip is more than my lunch money.
For Koi, who had rarely eaten at places where tipping was customary, his heart was beating like mad with shock. Didn’t Ashley find it a waste to tip so much?
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
“By the way, where do you live?”
As they left the restaurant, Koi couldn’t help but ask. Ashley, heading towards his parked car, answered:
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
“Over there.”
Following the direction Ashley pointed, Koi was taken aback. It was a gated community guarded by security, known for its enormous estates, where even driving would take over three hours to cover, and Ashley Miller’s home was the largest, most luxurious mansion on top of a hill.
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
That’s why he tips so generously without a second thought.
To the stunned Koi, Ashley said:
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
“If you were a girl, I’d give you a ride, but…”
With his voice trailing off as if on purpose, Koi quickly shook his head.
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
“No, it’s okay. Let’s part ways here.”
“Alright then.”
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
As Ashley turned to leave as if he had been waiting for this moment, Koi hurriedly grabbed him.
“Wait, you need to give me your email address.”
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
“Oh… right.”
After a brief pause, Ashley nodded and held out his hand.
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
“Give me your phone.”
“Huh? Oh.”
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
Handing over his phone in a daze, Ashley quickly typed something and handed it back.
“You don’t even lock your phone?”
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
“Who’s going to look at it?”
Koi checked the phone number and email address Ashley had entered, then looked up. He naturally thought it was his turn now, but Ashley didn’t seem interested in giving Koi his phone.
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
“You send the email first. Then I’ll reply. That should work, right?”
“Uh…”
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
Although it felt strange, there was nothing to argue about. Instead, Koi nodded hesitantly.
“Okay.”
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
Before the awkwardness could return, Koi spoke first.
“Well, take care, Ash. I’ll send the email.”
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
After a brief farewell, Ashley hesitated as he was about to turn away. He looked around and then back at Koi.
“Where’s your car?”
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
“Ah.”
Koi, realizing the meaning behind his question, answered with some embarrassment:
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
“That’s it, the one I came on.”
At the end of where Ashley’s gaze followed was just a worn-out bicycle. The silence that followed lasted only a few seconds, but Koi felt like he could read Ashley’s mind.
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
“You don’t need to give me a ride; we’re going in opposite directions anyway.”
Koi preempted any offer, and Ashley crossed his arms with a serious look, saying, “That’s true, but…” Koi was surprised to see him actually contemplating. Before this assignment, Ashley probably hadn’t even known Koi existed. To worry about a classmate he’d only talked with for about two hours for an assignment, what a kind guy.
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
What doesn’t this guy have?
Just when Koi was in disbelief, Ashley suddenly had an idea.
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
“Then let’s do this.”
“Huh?”
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
Before Koi could even understand, Ashley took off his jacket. He then draped it over Koi’s shoulders. Seeing Koi’s wide-eyed surprise, Ashley let out a short laugh and added lightly:
“I’d be in trouble if my assignment partner got sick.”
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
Of course, that would be true. I’d be in big trouble if I got sick too. But wouldn’t you be in trouble if I got sick? Though the chances of me getting sick are much higher than yours. Look, you’re so big and have such a broad chest, while I’m so small and scrawny. Remember the Greek mythology we studied last semester? If you were a god, you’d be Apollo. I’d probably be the grass under your feet, no, the aphid on that grass. Wow, a god gave his coat to an aphid. Isn’t that amazing? Conner Niles, I must have used up all my luck for life!
Although many thoughts crossed his mind, not a single word came out of his mouth. As night fell, the heat of the day disappeared, leaving only a cool breeze that made him shiver. His arms, exposed under the thin t-shirt and chilled, started to shrink from the belated cold when the warmth from Ashley’s jacket reached him.
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
Koi, feeling the warmth that the jacket spread over his entire body, looked up at Ashley in a daze. No one had ever taken off their jacket for him before. No matter how cold or lonely he was, he had always endured it alone. But that wasn’t all. Ashley, with a smile as warm as the jacket, said:
“Much better.”
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
The wind that blew just then tousled Ashley’s blond hair. He casually swept back his platinum locks with his long fingers. For some reason, Koi felt like he might cry at that moment.
“…Thanks.”
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
He whispered his thanks, afraid his voice might crack. Under the streetlamp still lit in front of the closed shop, they stood in silence so profound that even their breathing was inaudible, just looking at each other. Somewhere, a faint sound of a heartbeat seemed to be heard. Koi looked up at Ashley, lost in thought.
Ah, so this is what falling in love feels like.
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
He suddenly realized. If either Ashley or Koi had been a girl, Koi would certainly have fallen for him. But he quickly realized that neither was a girl, and thus, this feeling was merely akin to love, not actual love.
“…I can see why you’re so popular.”
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
Muttering softly, Ashley, hearing this, let out a cheerful laugh. Even his laughter lifted Koi’s spirits. As Koi stared blankly at him, Ashley said:
“Thanks for the compliment. Then, Conan, see you later.”
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
At that moment, all his illusions shattered. Feeling a bit sour, Koi corrected him:
“It’s Koi, Conner Niles.”
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
“Right, Koi.”
After misnaming him to the end, Ashley got into his Cayenne. The SUV, as impressive as its owner, made a soft engine sound before driving off.
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
Koi stood there for a while, watching the car disappear into the distance before turning around. As he got on his old bike and headed home, he felt lighter than when he arrived at the restaurant, thinking:
Ashley was much more pleasant and good than he had expected. The assignment would be fine, and he had a delightful premonition that all his worries would be resolved at once, making him smile repeatedly. The only flaw was that Ashley kept getting his name wrong, but that was something he could easily overlook.
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
He decided to think about how to return the jacket later. Right now, he just wanted to enjoy this good mood. Such exhilaration doesn’t come often.
As he pedaled cheerfully towards home, replaying his conversation with Ashley, Koi suddenly thought:
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
Maybe I could become a lawyer too.
🏒
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
The optimistic feeling didn’t last three days. Koi stared at the screen, anxiously waiting for Ashley’s email, which showed no sign of being received.
What could have gone wrong?
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
With his head in his hands, Koi just stared at the monitor, but the situation didn’t change. The problem was that Ashley hadn’t been coming to school since that day. If he could at least see him, he could confront him, but there was no way to even meet him.
Finally, unable to bear it anymore, Koi picked up his phone. He had put it off and put it off, but now he had reached his limit. If he delayed any further, he wouldn’t finish the assignment on time.
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
I have so many other assignments to do.
After taking a deep breath, he quickly typed out a message to Ashley.
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
[Ashley, it’s Conner Niles. Remember me? We agreed to do the Spanish assignment together. It’s been three days since I sent the email, what’s going on? If you’re still reviewing it, please let me know. We need to decide when you’ll reply and when to schedule our next meeting. As you know, we don’t have much time left. Please hurry, I beg you.]
After rapidly typing and sending the long message, he exhaled. He felt a brief sense of relief, thinking something might be resolved, but after that moment passed, a new torment began. Now, he had to keep an eye on when Ashley would read the message.
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
I should have just done one or the other.
Regret flooded in, but it was too late. In the end, Koi spent another day with his stomach in knots.
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
🏒
I can’t take it anymore.
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
With bloodshot eyes, Koi gritted his teeth. His condition was a mess due to staying up all night for other assignments, making it impossible to think rationally. Above all, Ashley Miller had been churning his insides for days.
To deceive me with such a cheerful face.
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
In his mind, Ashley Miller was already a criminal. He felt like his anger wouldn’t subside unless Ashley showed up with the assignment right now.
However, in reality, he couldn’t even confront him, let alone see his face. When both his emails and the messages he finally sent were ignored, Koi’s anger flared. But that’s all it was; he could do nothing, which made him even angrier.
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
As a last resort, he waited by the lockers before class, hoping to catch Ashley’s usual group of friends. They would know what was up with Ashley.
When he finally got the chance, what he heard from the group was completely unexpected.
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
“Ashley’s sick?”
Startled, his voice rose unintentionally, and one of the group members said, “Yeah.”
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
“What, he’s got a cold or something. He’ll get better after some rest. What’s the matter?”
“Uh… no, nothing. …Thanks.”
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
Stammering, Koi left the scene as if escaping and felt guilty for getting so upset all by himself.
Maybe because he gave me his jacket…
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
That was the only explanation he could think of. Ashley hadn’t come to school since the very next day. And a cold? It was too clear of evidence.
“Is he very sick?”
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
He asked worriedly, but the response was just a shrug, saying, “Maybe.”
“He’ll come back when he’s better. Why? Do you have business with him?”
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
“Uh…”
Caught off guard by the unexpected question, Koi stammered. He couldn’t bring himself to say that Ashley got a cold because of the kindness he showed to him. If he spread the fact that Ashley fell sick after being overly kind to him, what would happen? One thing was certain: no one would praise Ashley for it.
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
It might even give those who torment me more reason to do so.
At the chilling thought that followed, Koi quickly shook his head.
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
“No, it’s nothing. Just forget it. Thanks, bye.”
After blurting out his words quickly, he escaped the scene. Glancing back while running, he saw the group chatting among themselves as they walked away, seemingly not suspecting his strange behavior.
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
“Phew.”
Leaning against the wall behind him, he caught his breath with his eyes closed. See, this is why being as insignificant as dust is the best. They’ve probably forgotten my face already. Koi regained his composure with this certainty.
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
Anyway, it’s good. It was unfortunate that Ashley got sick, but right now, his priority was the assignment. How should he resolve this? He pondered seriously as he made his way to the next class.
Well, there you go.
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
He had thought things were going too smoothly. The assignment he had been so confident would progress smoothly had completely gone off track. However, this was something he was very familiar with. Life had never been straightforward for him, even in his short existence.
But this is just an assignment.
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
There was no need for this to get tangled up too, and the thought made him flare up with anger. He wanted to unleash a string of harsh curses at someone, but his lack of proper swear words made him even angrier. Why can’t even I swear properly?
After a brief moment of self-deprecation, he managed to regain his composure. Now was not the time to be downcast. He needed to find a solution quickly. So, the solution was…
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
Without dragging it out, he came to a conclusion. It was unfortunate that Ashley was sick, but he needed to ask him to do what he could. No matter how much he thought about it, finishing the assignment alone in the remaining time was impossible, especially with the piles of assignments from other subjects waiting for him.
Once he made the decision, he acted fast. He picked up his phone and found Ashley Miller’s number. With only about ten numbers saved, including the one for his part-time job, it wasn’t hard to find. Moreover, Ashley’s name started with an ‘A,’ so his number was at the top.
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
Koi took a deep breath and pressed the button before he could lose his nerve. As the dial tone sounded, he had to take several deep breaths to calm his heart, which felt like it might burst.
And finally, after what seemed like an eternity, a voice came from the other end.
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
— …Yes.
It was Ashley Miller.
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
Hearing his voice, which was clearly subdued, made Koi’s heart, which had been beating wildly, feel like it stopped momentarily. But then it started beating twice as fast, and Koi covered his mouth with one hand, fearing his heart might leap out. After a brief silence, Ashley spoke again.
— …Hello? Who is this?
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
The voice, full of fatigue, clearly showed signs of sickness. Feeling a mix of guilt and concern about the assignment, Koi began:
“Uh, hi. It’s Conner Niles from the Spanish class, we’re on the same team for this assignment. We had a meeting at Greenbell, remember?”
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
He rambled on, stammering, but there was no immediate response from Ashley.
— Ah…
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
The sound was ambiguous, whether it was a sigh or an acknowledgment. Koi pulled the phone away from his ear and then put it back to continue.
“I sent emails and messages, but there was no reply. I heard you’re sick, are you okay?”
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
— …Shouldn’t you be asking if I’m okay first?
Ashley retorted with a hoarse voice. Of course, he wasn’t upset that Koi didn’t care about him; it was just the typical irritation of someone who’s sick. They weren’t close enough to worry about each other. Besides, Ashley would have already received plenty of comfort from his beautiful, popular girlfriend, so Koi just needed to say what he had to say. With that thought, Koi cleared his throat and continued.
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
“Uh, sorry for asking too many personal questions last time. I won’t do that again, so can’t we finish the assignment together?”
He waited for a response, ready to continue, when Ashley, with a look of reluctance, said “Huh?” in a tone that indicated he wasn’t thrilled.
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
— The assignment?
It was a far more lackluster response than Koi had anticipated. He hadn’t expected Ashley to be as enthusiastic about the assignment as he was, but he also didn’t expect such disinterest, which threw him off momentarily.
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
“Uh, we talked about it last time, right? We agreed to research Argentine food culture. I’m doing coffee, you’re doing sandwiches. Have you done the research…?”
Even to his own ears, his voice sounded completely lacking in confidence. Feeling self-deprecating because his voice clearly betrayed his deflated spirit, he knew he couldn’t change who he was.
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
As he waited for an answer, Ashley sighed, sounding annoyed, and said:
— Well, I’m not sure.
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
“What?”
Koi was taken aback, but Ashley seemed to have lost interest already. He mumbled in a drained voice:
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
— It’s not like we have to do it. How about just doing it half-heartedly?
“No, no. Wait a sec, Ash!”
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
As Ashley seemed ready to hang up, Koi quickly interjected. Hearing the deep sigh from the other end, Koi momentarily lost his nerve but knew he had to persist. Gathering all his courage, he continued with a trembling voice:
“Then I’ll do the research. Just take on a few chapters after that. I’ll organize the outline and topics, how about that?”
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
Before Ashley could dismiss the idea again, Koi quickly added:
“I really need this grade.”
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
There was a brief silence. Please! With the desperation to pray, Koi shut his eyes tightly, and then Ashley spoke:
— It’s none of my business.
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
“Ash…!”
He called out urgently, but the call had already ended. Koi stared blankly at the empty screen of his phone. Did he really just hang up like that? Seriously?
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
It was unbelievable, but it was true. The call had already ended, and when he tried calling again, Ashley didn’t even pick up. It was despairing, but Koi had to accept it. Ashley had no intention of doing the assignment.
What do I do now?
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
He hadn’t imagined that Ashley would be so irresponsible as to completely bail on him, so he hadn’t even thought of a Plan B. But now he had to.
How could he be this irresponsible?!
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
Koi tilted his head back, took a deep breath, and felt like he might cry.
He’s sick, so of course he’s not in the mood for anything. But still, he has to do his part, right? He could’ve at least called earlier to say he couldn’t do it. That would’ve given me more time. Now, how am I supposed to do this all by myself…?
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
He felt a pang of self-loathing, as if he were the only person in the world who had to finish assignments by the deadline, even if he were dying. For someone like Ashley Miller, this assignment probably meant nothing. He wouldn’t care even if he got a B. If his grades weren’t good enough, he could just donate a building to the school and walk right in.
I hate people like him.
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
Koi roughly wiped away the tears that had started to fall. There was no other choice. He had to stay calm. He was the only one who needed this assignment grade. So, no matter what, he had to finish it on time.
Once he steeled himself, he felt the urgency. To cover Ashley’s part, he’d need twice the time he had now. But he couldn’t cut back on his part-time job. The only thing he could reduce was his sleep.
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
“You can sleep all you want when you’re dead.”
Koi muttered this to himself as he pedaled his bike like crazy, racing against time.
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
🏒
“Hey, Ash! What happened? A cold?!”
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
As expected of a celebrity, Ashley Miller became the center of attention as soon as he returned to school. The usual crowd gathered around his locker, fussing over him more than usual, while others snapped photos from a distance. Koi silently packed his things and closed his locker.
To get to the building where his class was, he had to pass through the group of tall guys blocking the way, but it wasn’t a big deal. For Koi, this kind of situation was almost laughable.
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
He pressed himself flat against the lockers and sidestepped through the narrow gap without asking anyone to move. At one point, one of the guys laughed loudly and slammed his fist against the locker Koi was leaning on, nearly causing a disaster, but Koi narrowly dodged it.
Phew. After barely making it through, Koi rubbed his sore neck and glanced back. Ashley was still surrounded by his friends, laughing and joking.
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
Guess he’s feeling better.
His pale complexion was clear evidence, but Koi had no reason to sympathize with him. Because of Ashley, Koi had pulled three all-nighters and got scolded for dozing off at his part-time job.
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
Koi turned back and walked toward the classroom building. Behind him, he could hear Ashley and the hockey team laughing loudly.
🏒
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
“I’ll now announce the grades for the last assignment.”
At Ms. Martinez’s words, Koi tensed up. He focused all his nerves on her next words as she pushed up her glasses and said, “Everyone did well. Of course, there were some who half-heartedly rushed through it. Oh, Dixon, don’t worry, this isn’t about you. Anyone can see how hard you worked just by looking at your assignment.”
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
The class burst into laughter, and Dixon, who had been joking with the guy next to him, laughed along. Of course, Koi didn’t laugh. In an AP class, it was unlikely anyone would slack off. Ashley’s lack of effort was unexpected, but no one would blame him for not taking it seriously. He had plenty of other ways to make up for a low grade anyway.
Only someone like me would struggle like this.
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
Just as he was feeling self-pity, Ms. Martinez called out their names.
“Conner Niles, Ashley Miller.”
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
“Yes!”
Koi almost stood up without realizing it but managed to stay seated, raising his hand instead. Ashley also raised his hand, but his expression was clearly indifferent. Of course. He hadn’t contributed a single letter to the assignment, let alone anything substantial.
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
Koi stared nervously at Ms. Martinez, who smiled at him as she looked up from the paper.
“You worked really hard. You two got the highest score. If there were a grade higher than A+, I’d give it to you.”
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
What?!
Koi’s eyes lit up, and Ms. Martinez nodded at him with a reassuring smile. Koi couldn’t help but break into a wide grin. He did it. It was tough, but he did it!
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
There had been countless times when he worked hard only to end up with disappointing results. But this time, he got what he wanted. Could anything make him happier than this?
He covered his mouth with both hands to stifle the urge to cheer. Ms. Martinez continued calling out names and announcing grades, but Koi, breathing heavily and basking in his joy, couldn’t hear anything else.
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
In his world, only he existed. No other sounds or sensations reached him.
Even Ashley’s curious gaze, now fixed on him, didn’t register.
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
🏒
“Don’t doze off today, got it?”
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
The owner scolded him sternly and pointed to the CCTV camera monitoring the cash register. After making sure Koi saw it, the owner shot him one more sharp look before leaving.
Left alone in the store, Koi let out a deep sigh. The joy of finishing the assignment was fleeting. What followed was an overwhelming wave of exhaustion.
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
“Yaaawn.”
As soon as he was alone, he stretched and yawned loudly, wiping the tears from his eyes. He looked around the store. Today, for some reason, no customers had come to the snack and sundry shop. Perfect timing, he thought, pulling out his assignment. But his eyes were heavy, and his eyelids kept drooping.
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
“Ugh, seriously.”
He rubbed his eyes hard, even speaking out loud to himself, but it didn’t help. It was no use. He thought about splashing some cold water on his face and was just stepping out from behind the counter when—
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
The door opened with the sound of a jingling bell. Thinking “of all times,” yet feeling somewhat relieved that the timing was just right, Koi looked up to see who had entered and froze in shock.
It was Nelson and his gang.
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
He wanted to act nonchalant, but his body wouldn’t cooperate. Seeing Koi freeze like a reflex, Nelson smirked.
“Hey, where are you going? Can you just leave your job like that?”
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
The rest of the gang, as if waiting for their cue, started laughing and chattering.
“Wow, the owner must have some guts to leave the shop to Koi Niles.”
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
“Doesn’t that just show how much trust they have in our Koi Niles? Impressive, Mr. Niles.”
“You loser, what can you even do here?”
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
Amidst the burst of laughter, one of them pushed Koi back with a finger on his forehead. Stumbling backward, Koi bumped into another member of the gang, who then shoved him away with a curse.
“Fuck, where does this idiot think he’s rubbing?”
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
“Ugh, the smell. Look at how this guy stinks, you don’t want to catch anything from him, do you?”
“Fuck, what are you going to do? Come here, smell it, smell it, damn it, my nose is rotting.”
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
The last guy grabbed Koi’s head from behind, pushing it towards the floor. Koi struggled not to fall, but he couldn’t prevent his head from bobbing dangerously close to the ground.
“Stop, stop it!”
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
Koi shouted in panic, but all he got in return were jeers. While Koi was being harassed, Nelson opened the fridge, rummaged through the drinks, and casually threw a beer can to one of the guys standing behind him. The guy caught it with both hands, grumbling about how he was supposed to drink it now.
“Hey, how am I supposed to drink this after you threw it?”
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
“Like this.”
Nelson, making a show of it, shook the beer can vigorously and then opened it with his arm fully extended, right where the guy had just received it.
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
“Oh no!”
Koi shouted urgently, but of course, Nelson didn’t stop. The moment he pulled the tab, white foam shot up straight.
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
“Wow!”
“What the fuck?”
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
“Oh, that crazy bastard!”
Screams and laughter mixed from all around. Koi was seeing stars. The beer left brown stains on the ceiling, soaking Nelson’s hand before it finally subsided. Nelson then took a big gulp from the can, made a gagging sound, and complained:
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
“There’s barely half left, damn it.”
Of course, half of it had hit the ceiling, spilling down and scattering all over the displayed items on the floor.
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
But it was too early for Koi to despair. Nelson started taking several more beers from the fridge and stuffing them into his pockets.
“No, stop it!”
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
Koi shouted again, his mind spinning. He had to stop them and get them out, but the gang kept holding him back, preventing him from moving even a step.
“I said stop! Everyone get out! Put everything down and leave!”
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
“You little shit.”
When the guy holding Koi grabbed his collar, Nelson intervened with a sharp tone:
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
“Wait, let that bastard go.”
The guy had no choice but to let go, and Koi, nearly falling from being pushed away, stood unsteadily. Nelson approached him.
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
“Hey, what did you just say?”
Nelson seemed even larger as he approached step by step. Koi instinctively backed away. The guy snickering, the one eating snacks from the display, the one dispensing slushies from the machine—all needed to be stopped, but the only person in Koi’s view was Nelson.
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
“What did you say? Huh?”
Nelson taunted. He walked towards Koi, who was too scared to speak, with a sneer. Seeing Koi trembling with wide eyes, Nelson pushed his shoulders hard.
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
“Hey.”
“Ah!”
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
As Koi staggered back, Nelson pushed him again.
“What? Stop? Leave?”
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
Nelson pushed Koi once more, grabbing his collar with one hand as he stumbled. Pulling Koi’s face close to his, Nelson glared menacingly, grinding his teeth.
“You dare to order me around? You pathetic loser, don’t you know your place?”
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
“Ugh, ugh.”
Koi, struggling to breathe, teared up as he tried to escape from his grip, but Nelson didn’t budge, making it harder to breathe. Koi looked at Nelson with tear-filled eyes, who was staring back with a fierce expression, as if to say, “What are you going to do about it?” When their eyes met, Koi felt a surge of anger.
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
“Stop, it, now! You didn’t pay, you messed up the place, you’re thieves. You’re all thieves, robbers!”
“What?”
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
Nelson’s voice rose. Veins popped on his forehead, and his large hand raised up, ready to slap Koi’s face. Koi closed his eyes tightly, anticipating the blow.
In those few seconds, numerous thoughts flashed through his mind. What if I pass out from this hit? When will I clean all this? How much have they taken? Can I cover this with my weekly wage? Maybe it would be better if I never woke up…
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
That’s when it happened. Suddenly, the bell on the door jingled loudly. Someone had come in.
A customer? Koi vaguely thought, but it would only delay the pain. No one would help in this situation. Seeing this, they would just leave in shock…
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
“What are you all doing?”
“Huh?”
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
At the sound of the bright voice, Koi flinched in surprise. The surroundings went silent in an instant. Even as he cautiously opened his tightly shut eyes, Koi thought, “No way.” He felt it was surreal because there might only be one person in the world who could make such a refreshing sound.
No way, it can’t be. No way.
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
No way Ashley Miller is here…
Finally, his eyes opened wider. Koi couldn’t believe what he saw.
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
He’s here.
That was the only thought that came to his empty mind.
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
Ashley Miller is here.
That was it. His mind couldn’t process anything further. It wasn’t just Koi who was staring blankly at him. Even Nelson, who had been causing trouble, and all his gang members were standing there, looking confused at him. Only Ashley Miller walked into the store with an air of nonchalance.
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
The bell on the glass door that automatically closed rang. Despite everyone’s eyes on him, Ashley didn’t show any sign of discomfort. Instead, seeing him walk in so naturally, Koi thought, “Well, this must be routine for him.”
Feeling a bitter taste in this inappropriate situation, Ashley stopped a couple of steps away from Nelson and glanced at Koi before turning back to Nelson.
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
“What are you doing right now? You’re not about to hit someone, are you?”
Nelson, who was still holding Koi by the collar, froze in shock. Realizing he had shown fear, he got angry and shouted back even louder:
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
“W-what’s it to you?”
He’s done for.
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
All the gang members watching, even Nelson, thought the same. Establishing dominance was key, but by stuttering after raising his voice, he had lost it all.
As expected, Ashley spoke with a full smile on his face:
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
“It’s my business. Are you all drinking alcohol?”
“W-what?”
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
One of the gang members belatedly hid the beer behind his back, and Nelson quickly threw the remaining beer can to the ground. As the beer can rolled, spilling white foam, Ashley looked back at Nelson.
“That’s a problem. Underage drinking… We’re all too young to be drinking, aren’t we?”
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
“S-so what?”
When Nelson stubbornly retorted, Ashley replied casually:
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
“I was just about to report it to the police.”
He took out his phone, showing it off, and the gang members looked at each other in panic. Nelson, too, looked surprised and didn’t know what to do before he angrily shouted:
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
“What are you, really trying to pick a fight with me?”
“What? I’m just trying to follow the law.”
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
As Ashley casually pressed the buttons on his phone, Nelson let go of Koi and lunged at Ashley.
“You bastard…!”
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
Seeing Nelson swing a clenched fist, Koi, who had quickly regained his balance, gasped in shock. Oh no, this is going to be bad! His mind went blank, and he clutched his head.
Please don’t make the store even more of a mess!
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
“You fucking bastard!”
Nelson yelled as he swung his fist. The gang members watched in shock, and Koi covered his head with both hands.
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
No!
When he screamed silently, Ashley took a small step back.
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
“Whoa, whoa.”
Nelson, who had thrown a wide punch, missed and flailed wildly.
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
“Nelson!”
“Hey!”
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
The gang members shouted in panic, but Nelson ended up embarrassingly thrown into a corner. Seeing this, some of the guys snickered, but they quickly suppressed their laughter and started trembling instead.
Nelson, who managed to get up, turned bright red and clenched his fist again to go after Ashley. Looking down on Nelson with disdain, Ashley spoke:
Read the complete chapter at Lily on the Valley without random text
“You really want to fight? Against me?”
Think about it.
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
Koi felt like there was an unspoken follow-up. This feeling of receiving a kind warning wasn’t just Koi’s; even Nelson, who had been baring his teeth to attack, hesitated, his momentum broken. Sensing the unusual atmosphere, the gang members started to look at each other.
“Uh, we were just about to leave, right?”
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
One of them gathered the courage to speak, and the others nodded in agreement.
“Yeah, of course. This place is no fun anyway.”
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
“Hey, let’s go, huh? Nelson.”
“Nelson, let’s just go.”
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com
With the continuous prompting from his friends, Nelson slowly relaxed his fist. Pretending to stand up straight, he looked up at Ashley as if he was reluctantly leaving.
“You got lucky today.”
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
The situation ended in an absurd way. With one last boastful remark, Nelson followed his gang out of the store in haste. Watching Nelson’s retreating figure, Koi felt like he was watching the last scene of a villain from a cartoon he used to see as a child.
The store became quiet in an instant. Realizing the silence, Koi hesitated and looked up at Ashley. Ashley, who had been watching the gang leave, only turned his head towards Koi after they were completely gone.
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
The moment their eyes met, Koi instinctively shrank his shoulders. Unlike Koi, who tensed up involuntarily, Ashley gave one of his radiant smiles that Koi had seen several times before and spoke:
“Are you okay?”
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
“Huh? Uh…”
Koi nodded instinctively but then hesitated before asking carefully:
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
“Why… why are you here?”
Did you come looking for me?
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
He thought to himself, but he was wrong again. Ashley answered casually:
“I was just passing by and thought I’d buy something.”
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
Of course.
Koi extended his arm out, indicating for Ashley to look around and find something for himself. After scanning the store, Ashley commented:
Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator
“Even the locker room after a game isn’t this much of a mess.”
“Then hurry up and buy something and leave. I have to clean up.”
For the best reading experience, visit lilyonthevalley.com
Even to himself, his voice sounded completely devoid of energy. It was true. Thinking about the mess in the store, the items ruined by Nelson’s gang, and what they had eaten, drunk, and taken, made his head hurt to the point where he wanted to run away. Of course, he didn’t have the courage for that.
Just as he was letting out a sigh and drooping his shoulders:
Visit Lily on the Valley to read full chapter without gibberish
“I’ll help.”
“Huh?”
Support us by visiting our official site at lilyonthevalley.com