From Bullets To Billions novel Chapter 23

Chapter 23 - The Mask Is Off

"Alright, follow me," Joe said, both hands stuffed casually in his pockets. "And if you don't, I'll make you walk the whole way barefoot."

All of this was happening because of one mistake—Max had spoken up too soon. His plan had been simple: go along with these losers, blend in, and then start digging for information. Maybe snoop around the school library or the teachers' lounge to find any more names that were on the list.

But now? He was stuck in this situation instead.

Trying to fix his misstep, Max followed Joe willingly.

I'll just take whatever beating he's got planned, Max thought. Get it over with, then come back and get back on track.

As Joe passed Ko and Mo, the three of them exchanged smug smiles. Not long after, the other two got up and left the classroom as well.

"Man, I gotta take a leak before first period," Ko said, stretching his arms. "Shame I can't watch what's about to go down, but I really can't afford to be late again." Mo followed behind him, both of them heading in the opposite direction from where Joe had taken Max.

They were laughing like nothing had happened, while back in the classroom, Sam sat frozen at his desk, anxiously biting his nail.

Crap, crap... this can't be good! Sam panicked internally. If they're taking him outside, it means whatever they're planning to do, they really don't want the teachers or other students to see. And the teacher hasn't even arrived yet... I can't tell anyone.

Nervously biting at his nail, Sam eventually sank into his seat, eyes drifting to the clock. His thoughts were racing—wondering what Max might be going through right now.

He just got out of the hospital. There's no way he's in good shape already... What if they go too far this time? Worse than before? Sam squeezed his eyes shut, his fists tightening on the desk. But if I get involved... they'll just make my life even worse. It's already bad enough... Why does this always happen to me?

As both of Sam's hands trembled on top of the desk, a memory hit him—Max, standing there in the cafeteria, paying for everyone's food without hesitation. The way he spoke to him like a real friend, like someone who actually cared.

He said I didn't have to worry about it... that he'd take care of it. I said that I would repay him for that favour.

Sam stood up suddenly, pushing his chair back.

"I... I have to at least do this," he whispered to himself.

Without wasting another second, he rushed out of the classroom and sprinted through the hallway, searching desperately for a teacher—any adult who could help.

But so far... there was no one.

Meanwhile, both Ko and Mo were casually walking back from the toilets.

"Hey... was that Sam just now? Looked like he was running out," Mo said, glancing over his shoulder.

"Yeah," Ko replied with a smug grin. "Maybe he finally decided to run home and never come back to school. One less loser to deal with."

"You don't think he's, like... gonna tell a teacher or something?" Mo asked, a bit of unease creeping into his voice.

Ko scoffed. "Don't be stupid. He tried that once, remember? Got smacked so hard he was too scared to even talk after that. He's not gonna try it again. We warned him what would happen next time."

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At the same time, Sam was racing through the hallways, his breath coming fast and shallow. He'd passed a few teachers, but for some reason... his legs froze every time he got close.

Why can't I say anything...? Why won't the words come out?

His hands trembled at his sides. His whole body was on edge.

But then—he spotted someone. Someone he knew might actually do something.

"Abby!" Sam shouted as he ran up to her.

Abby turned, startled. "Oh, hey Sam. What's wrong? You look—wait, did something happen?"

'You think you're at the top?' Max thought as he steadied himself. Just how small is your world... to believe something like that?

Just take it, Max... just take it. Remember—this is what the real Max Stern endured. He had half your strength... and no way out, Max reminded himself.