I am so sorry for the late chapter. I was so busy with work of the past two weeks..

Hope you enjoy.

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“Well, it seems like I died again.” I told myself, as I sigh and shook my head. Going against a wyvern all by myself was a terrible idea. Not to mention the fact that the wyvern’s level was obviously higher than mine, and even worst, the curse status was inflicted on me again.

“Great, not this crap again.” I complained. Being affected by the Curse status was really annoying, not only do I lose my my maximum health, I also lose zecos if I want to be purified.

“I'll visit Jeanne later, I'll get off of VirGo and have some dinner for now.” I thought to myself before opening the menu bar and tapping “Log out”.

After confirming, the system started to countdown from ten. This was to make sure that no one logs out in the middle of a fight. The moment they take a single damage when trying to log out, the countdown would stop.

After the number hit zero, everything went dark and I took off the VirGo. Sitting up on my bed, I checked my watch on my right wrist.

6:30

Better get ready for work.

I got of from my bed and decided to take a little shower to freshen myself up. The water was cold, I forgot to get it fixed. After shower, I changed into my uniform of my part-time job, the manager is really strict in that matter. One time, I got scolded because I wasn't able to wear my uniform to work. I mean come on, it was raining that day and I could not get my uniform to dry on time.

I walked out of my apartment and closed the door, I also made sure to lock it up. Making my way downstairs, I saw Maria talking on her phone, all dressed up formally. She was wearing a pink dress, her hair was in braids and she was not wearing her usual glasses. Instead, she was wearing contacts and I must say, she looked beautiful.

I decided to surprise her a little by creeping up to her. Making sure my footsteps are as silent as a cat’s whisper, I tiptoed towards her back before grabbing her shoulders.

“Maria!” I suddenly cried out.

“Ahhh!!” She screamed, surprised. Maria almost dropped her phone but she was able to catch it on time. She gave me an angry looked, and I was trying my best to hold back my laughter.

“Aaron, you idiot!” She cried, before stomping on my foot with her high heels and storming off to her apartment.

Ouch.. I guess I deserved that. You might be thinking that Maria is mad at me, don't worry, she’s not the type to hold a grudge.

Anyway, I made my way to work. The bar was not really far from where I live. It was a five minutes walk from home to work. On my way there, I could see people minding their own business. Some were walking back home, others were still strolling around with their lovers, or alone. The thought of having a lover never really crosses my mind, but I wouldn't mind having one if she is as beautiful as Maria or Jeanne from the game.

Minutes later, I arrived at work and I was immediately greeted by my co-worker, Marvin. He’s a very charming looking guy with his wavy brown hair and a good looking face. I envy him from time to time, because every time a lady walks in, she would always look for Marvin. He works here full-time as a bartender, and I'm more of a multipurpose guy. I sweep the tables and the floor when we are about to close. I also help Marvin behind the counter from time to time when he needs it.

“How are ya, Ronny?”

“Doin’ fine Marv,” I replied, and then continued, “it sucks that we have work tonight.”

“True, but look in the bright side, this place is fully booked tonight!”

I nodded at his remark. Every time during Christmas, a lot of people would come at the bar with their friends and have a good time. Also, since it is a holiday season, our pay are doubled

“Well, let's get busy.”

.

.

“Welcome to the ‘Ace of spades’!” I greeted the patrons as they came in. It’s been two hours now and people are still coming, and the bar is almost full too.

“Do you have a reservation?” I asked the lady.

“Ahh yes, Crystella, table for five.” She answered. I looked over at Marvin to confirm since he answers the call for reservations. Marvin gave me the ‘okay’ sign, I then lead them to their tables.

“G-good evening, Aaron.” A voice from their group called out, I looked over to see who it was and to my surprise, it was Maria.

“Hey Maria,” I greeted her back before smiling.

“Sorry about earlier.” I apologized.

“I-Its okay.. Sorry about your foot.” She replied and I just gave her a pat on her head to show her that it was no problem.

The girls in her group started to giggle and nudge Maria on her sides. One of them even said, “Hey hey! Is there something between you two?”

“N-no! We're just childhood friends!” She immediately replied blushing a bit.

The girls laughed, I felt my heart sank a little.

Friends.

Time passed and the customers started to get up and leave. Maria and her friends were still busy chatting. They ordered another round of drinks. I was about to serve them their beverages when one of the girls held my wrist and gave me a weird look.

“I heard from Maria that there’s nothing going between you too.” She said. The lady had a long black hair, and she was wearing this red and really seductive dress. Her skin was white and her hand was soft.

“Y-Yeah,” I replied, then she looked over at Maria, who was also looking at us.

“You don't mind if I have him, right Maria?” She said to her, as Maria’s eyes widened and stood from her seat, slamming her hands at the table.

“Yuri! T-T-That’s..!” Before she could finish, Yuri simply laughed and let go of my hand. I stood there dumbfounded.

“Yuri, stop teasing out little Maria.” Crystella said. Yuri simply shook her hand and head.

“Hehe, I just wanted to see Maria’s reaction, that’s all.” She replied.

I was starting to sweat, could it be that Maria has feelings for me?

I quickly gave them the rest of their drinks and walked away from their table. It was starting to feel really awkward. I turned my head towards Marvin, and I could see him giving me a teasing smile.

Oh boy.

“Oh dear, try not to flirt with customers when on duty, Aaron.” He said.

I blushes a little and his my face, I could here Marvin’s chuckle.

Minutes later, Maria and her friends stood up from their seat, seems like they are about to leave. It was almost closing time anyway.

They started to walk towards the exit, then I noticed Yuri glanced at me and giving me a wink. I once again blushed a little.

This girl..

I simply shrugged and sighed. It was an exhausting evening, but I still have to clean up and head home.

I guess I should get some rest tonight and continue playing tomorrow.