Page 42 of Demon Hunger
“Kody, we have good news for you,” I said.
He whirled to face us, forgetting about the dishes. His face looked hopeful, almost desperate.
“We were able to find a sponsor for you.” I extended the envelope in his direction.
He stared at it, frozen for a moment, then reached out with a trembling hand.
“In there, you’ll find everything you need to go to L.A.”
His eyes wavered, and I thought he would start crying. Instead, he jumped and squealed in excitement, nearly startling us out of our seats.
“I’m going to L.A.” He jumped again. “I’m going to L.A.”
15
Ridingbacktotheleague from Kody’s apartment, I shared my suspicion.
“I think Kody’s problem may be different from the obvious,” I started. “One can be a glutton for something other than food. Hence the saying ‘a glutton for punishment’, right?”
Drevan nodded. “Most definitely. What are you thinking?”
“It seems to me that he craves fame and praise.”
Jenna nodded slowly. “Yeah, you’re right. He seems obsessed with getting an insane amount of views and likes on his videos.”
“Why all the food, though?” Drevan asked. “He does eat an excessive amount. It’s hard to believe he would do all of this if he didn’t feel an insatiable need or greed for food.”
“Maybe he’s a glutton for more than one thing,” Jenna suggested.
“That’s possible,” I said, “but I don’t think so. I could totally be wrong, but it seems to me that he chose mukbang because he enjoys cooking. He’s really good at it too. Everything we ate was delicious.”
“Oh, yes, it was.” Jenna patted her stomach, reclined back on her seat, and smiled contentedly.
Drevan interlaced his fingers on his lap. “It’s an interesting theory to explore, for sure.”
When we arrived at the league, Jenna got out first. I started to follow, but Drevan grabbed my hand, stopping me.
“I was hoping…” he paused, looking nervous. “Um, would you like to go on a date with me tonight?”
At the worddate,my heart missed a few beats.
Jenna stood, looking in from the sidewalk. I met her gaze, feeling self-conscious about the situation. A part of me wanted to say,“Hell yes!”And another part was terrified of my overwhelming attraction to a monster, not to mention the embarrassment and worry of what Jenna might be thinking about me.
“You should go,” she said, surprising me. “We don’t have any homework or tests tomorrow. It’s the perfect night.”
Drevan gave her a grateful smile, then turned to me expectantly.
I shook my head. “I’m wearing my ratty jeans and jacket. I’m not dressed for anything special.”
“I assure you that isn’t a concern. Your clothes are perfectly fine.”
“It’s decided… you’re going. You two have fun. Bye.” Jenna slammed the door shut.
Drevan rapped on the partition, and we started driving again. I sank into my seat, fidgeting.
“I wish I had asked you on a date before,” he said. “You must forgive me. I’m not used to this sort of thing, and I never expected to… find you.”
I gave him a smile that felt more like a grimace. “Where are we going?”
