Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism

Chapter 696 Zoren Needs a Favor

"Jas, Jas?"

"Hmm?"

Zoren looked at him, puzzled. "Did you not hear what I just said?"

Jasper chuckled awkwardly, his eyes glued to his phone screen. "Oh, what did you say?"

Zoren sighed in exasperation and repeated, "I said my uncle's daughter, who's been away for years, is coming back. She'll be attending our school, and my mom wants me to help her get settled on the first day. But I already made plans with some people, so I'm too busy. Could you pick her up for me?"

Jasper grinned, patting Zoren's shoulder, then took a swig from the beer can on the table. "Some people? You mean the History Department beauty, Amelia?"

Zoren froze. "How did you know?"

Jasper flipped his phone around, showing Zoren his social media feed. A girl's profile picture was front and center, along with a selfie from the other night at the bar. Though it was just a selfie, Zoren could clearly be seen in the background, lounging on the couch. With a teasing grin, Jasper said, "So, you're ditching your cousin to hang out with a girl, huh? Not exactly the best move."

Zoren grimaced. "Why bring that up? Geez.

"Anyway, I really can't make it. Can't you go for me, just this once?"

Jasper didn't hesitate to refuse. He leaned back in his chair and said, "No way, I'm busy too. Just because you're going out doesn't mean I don't have plans.

"Do I look like someone who shows up early to things?"

had a point, leaving him stuck

her yet. Rumor had it that she wasn't

wasn't pretty. But as a guy in his prime, he

turned to

"I'm busy too."

didn't even look up from

frowned. "Busy with

I can't really get into it, but I'll tell you more later. My mom wants me to lie low for a bit. On

mock defeat. "Unbelievable! When I hit a little bump in the road, you guys all start making excuses. My

free. Why don't you ask

guys to do it,

"You won't know

chimed in, laughing. "Exactly. You might be surprised-Hade

scratched his head. "Yeah, maybe I'll give

for drinks that

nightlife. Of the

wondered if Hayden had any desires

number. After about thirty seconds, Hayden's cool, steady

"Hello?"

I need

"No."

like that! I haven't even told you what it

of school, can you pick up my cousin for