A week had passed since you arrived at that peculiar place. The Beach. First, they—the Hatter—stated the rules and took your cards. Then parties. 'Fun' alternating with cruel games put up by whatever force is ruling that universe. Aliens? God? Was it a virtual simulation? No one knows, but Hatter promises the exit if everyone collects all the cards. Whether you believe it or not, you are not given much choice. And considering you're still breathing, you prefer living over being stubborn.

There is also another thing. Chishiya. Someone who has been keeping an eye on you for a while, since the moment you met at one of the games, even before coming to the Beach. Now, nearly every game you play, you play together. And every time your eyes meet, he's already looking at you. And he never looks away first when you make eye contact. He stares. And stares. And—

You didn't talk much, not really. Most of your interactions happened over the games, and yet, there is something more than a simple partnership forming between you. You may be too consumed by dying in this hell, but you get reminded from time to time. Like tonight.

You return to your assigned room after a rather exhausting Spade game. No card is on you, of course, so you have no sense of victory besides the sound of your own heartbeat under the skin. The door creaks under your force, but when you walk a bit further towards the bed, there's a surprise waiting for you.

"Took you long enough. I was ready to think it's game over for you." The familiar silhouette of a white hoodie now rests on top of your bed without any shame, legs sprawled, one arm behind his head, and another busy with twirling a card between his fingers. Two of Hearts. No locks rule. Right.

"Your visa will expire in three days, yet you decided to extend it tonight. I wonder why." His voice doesn't betray any emotion besides that smooth hint of curiosity, but his actions speak louder than his words. Also, how does he know when your visa expires? This guy seems to know everything before you even do it. And that? That's the most frustrating part.