Chapter 7
Yanna senses the gloom enveloping Vanessa and wonders if she said something amiss, despite having only given compliments. However, she decides not to probe further at the moment.
With Yanna's past experiences from her previous world and careful contemplation, she knew she had said something wrong that may hurt her or anger her 'cause just like before, though she often appears serious, with a stern demeanor that puts others at a distance, she recognizes her vulnerabilities and tries to shield them by projecting an exterior that discourages others from causing trouble for her.
And a single word can be a trigger to break it all, and Vanessa might be in the same situation based on what she remembers about her in the book and observations since they met. Vanessa has a warm heart and is weak in cute things, and a cold attitude is just her exterior.
She thought about how to lighten her mood and remember the map.
"There must be a bag around here," she said aloud.
"Do you think there's a bag around here, Vanes?" she asked,
Vanessa looked at her and at the map in her hand then she handed it to Yanna without saying anything.
She couldn't admit that she was in a bad mood and struggling to understand the map. It was better to give the map to Yanna and just play with the rabbit.
Yanna examined Vanessa, and it seemed that she was not as gloomy now, perhaps thanks to the little rabbit. She glanced at the map and considered their current location.
"It appears that there's a bag nearby," Yanna observed.
"Then let's go," Vanessa suggested.
"No, I'll go alone. It's not too far. Just gather some wood and wait for me here. Also, how about making a fruit salad for breakfast? You must be tired by now. Take this stick, I sharpened the tip in case you need it for protection. Just to be safe-..," Yanna instructed, handing over the stick.
"Stop,"
Yanna paused and Vanessa continued
"I understand and know how to protect myself. You can go now."
"Good, and about the rabbit, if it runs, just let it be. Don't follow-..," Yanna added.
"Will you go, or shall I?" Yanna's words were cut off again, but she understood from Vanessa's cold tone that she might be getting annoyed at the moment.
" Then I'll go now, bye! "
While Yanna was away, Vanessa gathered some large leaves to place the washed fruits on. Lacking a knife, she simply stacked them together. Vanessa also found some logs to act as seats, avoiding sitting directly on the ground.
Lost in thought, Vanessa considered releasing the rabbit she was holding. However, she reasoned that she wasn't the one who had caught it. Her inner self suggested claiming that it had escaped, but her rational side disagreed.
Unaware of Yanna's return with a bag, Vanessa remained caught in her internal conflict. Yanna noticed Vanessa's distant expression but observed a flicker of contemplation in her eyes, particularly as she glanced at the rabbit. Yanna suspected Vanessa might have an idea but decided to wait for her to initiate the conversation.
"Ahem. I'm back," Yanna greeted, studying the two logs that had been used as a table for the fruits with leaves underneath, and a large log for Vanessa to sit on.
"What's inside?" Vanessa asked, not only looking at Yanna but also glancing at the bag behind her.
Yanna naturally sat beside Vanessa and handed her the bag.
"I haven't seen what's inside, so I thought we could take a look together," Yanna explained, removing her jacket to feel more comfortable.
Her action of lifting her arms revealed the smooth and fair tone of her white skin, which beautifully contrasted against the black tank top she was wearing.
Despite Yanna appearing thin, it didn't detract from her overall appearance; instead, it added an elegant grace to her demeanor. And to top it off, her beautiful smile radiates warmth and charm, completing her captivating look.
Even the viewers who hate her can't say a word at the moment.
Yanna's simplicity contrasted with her usual style, known for favoring bright colors or high-end brands as the rumors say. This made Vanessa reflect on how rumors cannot accurately judge a person. Recognizing that many people would form opinions based on the live show, She thought maybe this is the reason why Yanna joined and considered this as a chance to set the record straight instead of explaining herself.
"Put on your jacket; there are many insects here," Vanessa instructed while opening the bag. Yanna hastily put her jacket back on, ensuring it was fully zipped.
' I just take off my jacket for a few seconds and she already instructed me in this manner, what's her problem this time? she's lucky I have long patience '
"We have a knife, a red envelope, a pan, inhibitors and restraining stickers, clothes, rope, and a lighter," Vanessa listed the items found in the bag.
"What's inside the red envelope?" Yanna inquired.
"It contains a 75-point voucher and an item list," Vanessa responded.
"Do you like any of the items?" Yanna asked further.
"As you're the one who retrieved this bag, it's up to you to decide," Vanessa replied.
"No, I only want a knife, and we already have one here, besides we are partners now. What's mine is yours " Yanna stated.
" What's yours is mine? Then does it mean that what's mine is yours too?" Vanessa raised her left eyebrows
Yanna felt like she was being teased by Vanessa with a straight face. She unconsciously bites her lower lips
" No, what's yours is yours, "
" Nevermind, let's keep the points; we might find a use for it later," placing the envelope back in the bag.
Yanna took the knife and began to slice the fruits into bite-sized pieces. As she did so, she glanced at the small rabbit and contemplated whether she could cook it later, now that she had both a knife and a pan.
"Vanes, I believe we can exchange points for seasonings," Yanna suggested without averting her gaze from the rabbit. Vanessa noticed this and found herself conflicted once again.
"Do you want to eat meat?" Vanessa asked,
" Well~. Wait! no! " Yanna nodded, but the change in Vanessa's tone left her flustered so she take her words back immediately. It wasn't because she was afraid of Vanessa - quite the opposite. Yanna simply didn't want to be misunderstood.
"Don't get me wrong, I do enjoy meat, but we need seasonings. Remember, we have crabs, and we might catch other animals later to eat," she explained carefully.
"Not because you want to eat the rabbit?" Vanessa asked, unconvinced.
"Of course not! Do you see me as a cruel person who would harm a cute little bunny?" Yanna asked, pretending to be hurt while making puppy eyes. Vanessa couldn't handle this sudden attack and turned her head, refusing to be swayed by Yanna's acting.
'These rumors are fake! They say Yanna can't act, but look at her! She's a pro! Maybe even her black materials are fake. She doesn't even need to climb on the backs of others to succeed; her talent is enough!'
As Vanessa continued to doubt her, Yanna looked resentfully at the rabbit, blaming it for the situation.
The rabbit shivered, sensing danger, and squirmed in Vanessa's arms. Vanessa noticed Yanna's resentful gaze towards the rabbit, and to hide her amused smile, she bowed her head and muttered, "Childish."