Erik strolled through the school corridors alongside Amber, Floyd, and Gwen, the quartet chatting amicably as they exited the building.
"So, Erik," Floyd turned to him, "Want to hang out a little after lunch?" he asked.
Erik appreciated the invitation but had prior commitments. "Sorry, I can't today. Need to work," he said.
"No worries," Floyd said.
Amber jumped in with a question. "I never asked, but what is exactly your job?"
Erik hesitated, feeling a twinge of embarrassment. His job wasn't exactly glamorous, especially compared to his friends' affluent backgrounds. Amber, Floyd, and Gwen came from wealthy families, with Amber being particularly well-off. He pondered how best to answer, his hesitation clear.
However, Amber, perceptive as always, offered him an out. "Erik, if you'd rather not say, that's totally fine..."
"No, it's okay," Erik said. "I work on a farm. My powers come in handy there."
I have revised another chapter once again, incorporating approximately 380 additional words compared to the previous version. The Lomalins now provide a reduced amount of experience compared to before. As a result, Erik did not level up in the current version as he did in the previous one.
If you appreciate my efforts, kindly consider sending me power stones. I'm not even requesting Golden Thicket, just your support would be greatly appreciated.