Chapter 7: Maid for Revenge

I added Shane back on Snapchat—my real account this time.

He couldn’t type code one-handed, so I became his on-call servant.

He was the pickiest patient—clothes ironed just right, keyboard wiped daily, wouldn’t eat leftovers or chain food.

Whenever I helped out, he’d watch me with a smug look, clearly savoring his revenge.

At least class was an escape—never thought I’d say that.

That night, the Outdoor Club set up a Pelotonia charity sale.

I noticed Marcus Chen was off his game, dropping stuff.

After we raised $500, I asked what was wrong.

Marcus pursed his lips. "Didn’t place in the English speech contest. My parents will be pissed."

He was a Fisher College overachiever, probably heading for Wall Street.

I didn’t know how to comfort him, so I dragged him to Gogi for Korean BBQ.

"Come on, let’s hit the internet café after. I’ll carry you in League—guaranteed win streak."

He smiled over his boba. "Thanks, Luke. You’re a real one."

He wanted to stay up all night gaming, so we hit the PC bang hotel in Short North.

At check-in, the front desk lady asked, "King or twin beds?"

Marcus shrugged. I picked king—cheaper. Money was tight after Shane’s bills.

Shane called as we checked in. I almost forgot about him—my unwanted side quest.

I answered, not bothering to hide my annoyance.

"Where are you? You’re late."

"Sorry, busy tonight. Order takeout. Use your left hand."

"Oh." He sounded let down.

Lady at the desk asked about the bed again.

I said, "King-size."

Shane’s voice went cold. "Who are you at a hotel with?"

"Marcus. We’re gaming all night."

He was quiet for a moment.

"Is something urgent, Shane?"

"No. Just my hand hurts and I can’t hang clothes. If you’re busy, forget it."

He hung up.

Marcus and I dove into games, but my mind kept drifting.

What if Shane slipped again? Couldn’t even open a jar with one hand.

I kept dying in-game, distracted. Marcus ended up carrying me.

At ten, after losing five in a row, I bailed.

"Sorry, Marcus. Family emergency. I gotta go."

He was already deep in his game, barely noticed.