Red was coompletely oblivious to the fact that Nikki might have misinterpreted what he said as romantic affection towards her. He was after all a complete amateur when it came to romance. As such, he was clueless as to how she would think of his answer.

"Sure, the two of us can hang out to explore the Academy, find out more about the place we will live. I am not too comfortable with the others yet, maybe with the exception of the one called Jake. Who knows, maybe we could be roommates too!"

It didn't escape Red's attention that Nikki felt uncomfortable towards Lynn, but with all the people gathering at the table, he didn't have time to process the possible scenarios.

He finished his food, always hesitsnt to use the kitchen knife, because ofhis fear of hem, wiped himself clean in a gentlemanly manner, drank some water, because he found the foud a bit too salty for his tastes and stood up.

[I]"I need a smoke before I go crazy..."[/I] he thought.

He adjusted his tie and politely said to everyone:

"I was pleased to make your acquaitance...Now if you will excuse me..."

Although he was talking to everyone, he was only concerned with Nikki, Jake, Poppy and Henry, the only people good enough to share a word or a gesture. He didn't forget about Poppy and he saw her gesture too, but right now he prioritized his vice above all else. He joyfully said to Nikki:

"I would ask you to come along, but I would be shameless if I tried toseperate you from your cousin..."

Then he walked two steps, stood next to Lynn and whispered without looking at her, sothat the others would not understand he was talking to her.

"I am going to look for a safespot to smoke...If you care about it you can help me with it." He said and headed out.