Chapter 26: Confidante

Chapter 26: Confidante (Wattpad)

Mom and Dad were reading on the sofa. They were side by side, and they seemed really interested and absorbed. I bit my lip as I stared at them adjacent to the couch, tapping my pen against my Bio assignment. I’m still trying to find the opportune moment to ask them about tomorrow and my confidence just fails me. As always.

I thought of Travis’ hopeful face as he dropped me off from school.

“Dad? Can I ask you something?”

“Hmm?” he said absently, no looking up. Wha – he didn’t even look at me! 

“Dad.” I complained. No response. “Mom?”

“Yes, honey?” she smiled at me. I sat up straighter and said, “Can I go with Travis’ family tomorrow on the beach?”

“Will you go home late?” I knew she wasn’t really asking – she knows already. To be frank, she’s used to Travis going in and out of the house and it’s become habit for her to reserve some cookies for him whenever he decides to pop in. But the same can’t be said for me; I can hardly visit time to time in their mansion whose guards probably wouldn’t let me in, anyway.

“I really don’t know. Travis will drive me home.” We hadn’t really discussed that part but I’m sure as hell that he will. “So, I’m going to meet Mr. and Mrs. Warner and…Mom, what the hell should I wear?”

She burst to laughter and finally put her book down. ‘Is that what you were going to ask your Dad? Because asking him is probably not a good idea.” I can’t help chuckling in spite of my inner dilemma, “I was asking or permission, but…” I glanced towards Dad, who was, predictably, still sticking his nose in the book he’s holding. Mom caught my eye and she mouthed plants. Then she winked.

Of course.

Without speaking, she got up and put her arm on my back and I left my assignment on the couch and went with her upstairs to my room. The moment we were inside, she assessed my face and said, “You’re worried.”

“Not that much.” I squeaked.

“Good. You’re worried.” She nodded as if satisfied and got my hand and led the way to the cabinet. “Let’s see.’ She pulled both handles open and quickly skimmed the contents, pursing her lips. She said conversationally, “Ave, do you want advice?”

“About the thing I’m wearing?”

“No. About Travis, honey.” She as still perusing my inventory but I can tell she’s serious about what she’s going to say. Cautiously, I said, “Sure, Mom.” I realized I was nervous. Not because Mom isn’t close to me – we’re close as hell – but it’s just that she’s never given advice about something like this before and…it’s just new.

“If you want to know how he would treat you in the long run, just look at how he treats his mother.” She has her hands on a green scarf I got from Aunt Laine on my 14^th birthday, but she looked at me and smiled pleasantly. Maternally. “That would speak for itself.”

I nodded soundlessly and managed to smile a little. I will definitely do that. Suddenly, she said, “I like this one.” I saw her pull out a summer dress which has a colourful blending of ocean green and magenta. It’s one of those kinds where you tie both ends of long, thin strings of cloth at your nape. And…my shoulder blades will be exposed.

“It’s nice, Mom. But – ”

“No buts here, Avery. El gave you this and you didn’t even use it once. Don’t you think she would be disappointed?”

“She knows I wouldn’t wear it, so she gave it to me.”

“So, don’t you think It would be nice to show her that you can wear it?” she lifted her eyebrows and smiled triumphantly. I sighed. Trust mothers to have their way with everything.

“You win. But don’t tell me that I have to wear a – ”

“How about a bikini?”

Shit.

I groaned. “Mom. I don’t do bikinis. I’ll look pale.”

“But you’ll be under the sun, honey. You’ll probably get a good tan, but bring sunblock, okay? And extra clothes, money, just in case – ”

“I’m not going to wear the bikini. Ever. I’m going to murder Uncle Zed – ”

“She just laughed at her brother’s antics. But it is not funny. Not in the slightest. I mean – me? Bikini?

“He said they matched your eyes and he’s quite right, darling. And it’s really worth trying.” 

“I’m going to have a heart failure when I look at myself in the mirror – ”

“If you’re going to have a heart failure, imagine what would happen to Travis.”

Fuck. I blushed furiously and I was stunned momentarily. I sighed, “Mom, that’s so unfair. I’m not model perfection like him – ”

“Nonsense. You’re perfect.”

I rolled my eyes and sent her a look that plainly said, You don’t say?

“Mom, you’re extremely biased.”

“Well, that’s a good thing. But that’s not exactly the point. You will wear your Uncle’s gift. No excuses and no buts.”

I gritted my teeth. Maybe asking my mother was a wrong move. So what should I’ve done, then? Ask the neighbors?

“Is this payback-for-all-you’ve-done day or what?”

She grinned. “It’s the first one.”

“Mom. Do I have to beg on my knees?” Maybe I should’ve asked Dad instead. Or maybe, I should’ve had the initiative to do it myself.

“Avery, that won’t be necessary. But when Travis sees you in this two-piece caramel bikini – ”

“Mom – ”

“It would be really nice if you could snap a photo of his face.” She continued as if I didn’t interrupt. She smiled hugely, “Now, I’ll help you pack your things, how about that?”

Thanks, Mom.

Chapter 25: Transition

Chapter 25: Transition (Wattpad)

One week with Travis seemed to pass in a blur.

On Monday, we went back to school and spent the time when we aren’t with a teacher or dozing off secretly on our desks taking ridiculous pictures of each other from his Polaroid and got sent out of the classroom by all teachers, and Mrs. Jones said that we were “ridiculously in-love lovebirds you disturbs the progress in class.” Which is really accurate, bless her gifted mind. We came home last that night and ha gave me a mind-blowing kiss on our front door which would undoubtedly be replaced by another.

Tuesday, we spent time with my friends again and took their pictures as well. We had lunch together and Travis still fit in with all of them even when they asked him to remove his shirt for them to see if he really has abs. 

And we know the answer to that, don’t we?

And if that wasn’t enough, the next day, he came to my house ridiculously early and the second I woke up, his face was inches from me, smiling as he said, “What if we get hypothermia for today and don’t go to class?” True to his word, we spent the entire day on the mall – three of them, actually – and he brought out his credit card and told me to go crazy and he’ll pay.

Life couldn’t be more blissful at that moment. I brought things not only for myself, but for my whole clan. Sadly, we were chased by a herd of obsessed paparazzi and much to the civilians’ confusion, we ran up and down the escalators and brought things at random for disguises. Even a moustache. The point is, we got out safely without being squashed or forced to pose or something tragic like that.

I never wanted it to end. Never.

These past few days, I haven’t been accepting others’ plea for assistance for anyone’s projects or homework – mainly because Travis threatened anyone who dared – and a permanent smile is on my lips. It just never fades and I love it. I don’t braid my hair anymore when I go to school and I gave up trying to own another cellphone. A permanent cellphone, atleast. Even my friends said that my aura’s different, and they’re praising the changes like the work of an angel. I have that angel. His name is Travis.

On Thursday, after classes, he slipped past Paul and followed me home in a cab. After almost dying of laughter from the fact that it was the first time he had ever ridden a taxi, I let him inside the house, which was vacated by my cousins yesterday, much to their dismay, we ate granola bars up on my room while we pasted on what we now call ‘decrepit little box’ from everything we had taken the past few days – from the classroom, under the desks and when he was carrying me piggyback style on the school’s greenhouses.

And also Lexi, Cassie, Theresa and Nicole’s pictures together with us from yesterday and when we went shopping. This was the ridiculous part; we were wearing absolutely everything we like that catches our eye, which was pretty much all of it. My favorite picture was the one with the both of us in the dressing room – the saleslady had no idea, praise her – with Travis wearing a tuxedo and me on a blue ball gown. Then we tried on Ray Bans and snapped the picture at random.

When I snapped the box close, he surprised me by getting out the paint from my cabinet – he memorized my room now, come to think of it – and started getting the brushes out.

“Are you on drugs?”

“You’re worse than any kind of drug, you know.” He said, and then he told me about the pair of weird rings he found out about. Apparently, they’re colorless and pretty thick. But the magic was on the inside; when you paint on the inner part of the ring, no matter how small a dot, it will magnify on the outside. It was a perfect circle, but one side is particularly bulging and I guess that’s where the magnifying part is. The next second he pulled out a pack of colorless, identical rings and held out a brush for me.

“I figured since none of us are professional artists, I’d be stupid to buy only two. And, most importantly, I’m with a genius.”  He winked and half-laughing, I got the brush from him and we set to work on the bed. I didn’t even bother with the sheets – a little stain won’t kill anyone. We should’ve known it was really hard, though – what an understatement – but we had our beautiful output three hours later. Yes, three – surprise, surprise!

Mine was really nice – I am not bragging; it really is – considering it was hours in the making. In the course of those three hours, there grew a pile of failed attempts to personalize the rings, which is on my desk. It was already splattered with multi-colored ink and it looks…flashy. 

The first thing I did with my ring was to paint everything on the inside with nail polish – Travis the copycat, did it, too – and I tried my best to write my name in neat cursive with the bluest ink I found. Then with slow, but sure strokes, I drew and arrow with blank ink across the name in an abstract-ish kind of way. I let dry for twenty minutes and then covered the whole thing with white, for a neat background. Another twenty minutes and I’m looking at my handiwork.

Grinning as if I’d won a car, I showed it to him and received a sweet kiss that turned me to melting honey.

We exchanged rings – I know! It’s so cliché, like a wedding, but I don’t care – and saw that he did exactly the same thing that I did, except that he used caramel for his name. I stared at the Travis on the ring, written in caramel with his handwriting and gave him a huge grin and a simple kiss on the cheek. I’m not that good at batting my eyelashes, so I’ll just end up embarrassing myself.

I put the ring on my finger and never removed it. After that we painted each other’s face silly. 

Then came forward the next day – Friday.

“Is anybody even listening to me?”

“Present, sir.” I giggled to Mr. Saxon as my hands played with Travis’ under the table. The professor looked around the chaotic classroom and sighed, sweeping a hand through his curly hair. “I give up.” He muttered as he walked and flopped himself down his chair. He looked at the students with an apathetic, hopeless look in his eyes as papers flew through the open area, people talked at the top of their voices and everything was just in an ordered mess. It’s fantastic.

“D’you think he needs help?” I asked Travis with an eyebrow raised. Honestly, I feel sorry for him. Travis pursed his lips and waved to the professor, who stared back dejectedly. Clasping his hand with mine, he stood up. “Definitely.” 

We made our way to the distraught teacher and stood in front of his desk, trying to send him good vibes. He looked up and a faint smile appeared on his lips, “Atleast the two of you are still normal.” I smothered a violent chuckle at what he said and just listened to Travis, “Anything we could help you with, sir?”

“Can you bring Ms. Handler back to normal?”

We all looked at Kristine, who was interviewing some of our freaked-out classmates, utterly convinced that she looks and has the great potential to be Larry King.

“I think that’s beyond our means.” I answered as graciously as I could. But even if Kristine would do more than that – and I’m sure she will – I wouldn’t have her any other way. I’ve grown quite fond of her, actually. Isn’t that terrific? And to think I was afraid of her before. Tsk.

“I thought so. Then there’s nothing at all. But I appreciate it, Ms. Allton.  Mr. Warner.” He nodded to us. He really does look dismal, but then a sudden thought occurred to him. “You tow will have additional points straight to the card. For conduct.” Then he turned to me and smiled genuinely, “Not that you’d need anymore, Avery.” I grinned back at him and said, “You can give my part to Travis.” I shrugged when professor gave me the not-again look and Travis groaned. “He’ll need it.” I smiled innocently as he rolled his eyes and faced Sir Saxon, “You sure you don’t want our help, sir? We still have half an hour. No announcements or anything?” 

“There is one.” He sighed wearily and got a printed piece of paper and handed it over to us. “Maybe they’ll listen to you. God knows I’ve had enough.” Together, Travis and I read the contents and immediately froze, then read the whole thing over again.

“Sunday? This Sunday?”

“I know. It’s a little bit of shock. The principal probably couldn’t contain the excitement.” 

“But the school dance is supposed to be two weeks away.” Travis grumbled as my mind flew away. Sunday? It seems so sudden. And couldn’t they just wait a little longer? I don’t like this.

“So, should we, uhm, tell them?” I looked gazes with Travis and faced the room, which, if was even possible, became worse. I could already see two couples making out in the corner and – couldn’t they atleast have the decency to go to a private – aaargh. Look who’s talking, kissing under bloody trees.

Travis snapped his fingers. “I have an idea. Can you call your friend Kris? Maybe she can interview us.” I smiled at him hugely and with his arm around me, we went to the middle of the room but before we could utter a single word, Kristine startled us with a gigantic, “Hello!” she grinned at the both of us and just…grinned.

“Hi, Kris.” 

“You two are really cute, I swear.” She was still grinning like crazy, but that coming from her is a small miracle – she almost seemed normal. Almost.

I smiled affectionately in return, “Thank you. And we really have to say something to everyone and it would help if…if, you know – ”

“It would be really nice if you’d help us get the message across.” Travis smoothly cut in and ducked as a book flew above his head. Irritation stabbed at me – that was a bloody Trig book and its hardbound. You don’t just throw books like that, it’s just plain disastrous.

“Hey,” I called out to Ryan Bailey, “Could you please watch it?”

The rest of the boys have me impressed stares and chorused “Oooh.”

That was overkill.

I blushed furiously as Travis chuckled and proudly put an arm around me. ”Yeah, Ry, watch it.” Bailey said a rushed apology and went back to his business. I instantly faced Travis, “That was overkill. I didn’t mean to be so snappy – ”

“Of course you didn’t.” he winked and returned to Kris, explaining to her. I honestly forgot that she was here, much to my chagrin. Before we even saw her agree, she took us by the arm and rushed to the podium where the teacher’s desk is and she didn’t seem to mind the mess in our classroom as she shouted at the top of her lungs, 

“You slimy gits! We have an announcement!”

Everyone’s heads turned and when they saw who was on the podium, hushed silence followed, but I could feel the impatience boiling just below the surface.

“Uhmm…” I started saying, fiddling with the paper in front of me, “So we just found out that the Masquerade was transferred and it’s going to be this Sunday, instead of two weeks away – ” I shrieked as a notebook came flying out of nowhere and I instantly ducked and it hit the board instead. Oh, God. That was close.

 

Instant pandemonium met my eyes as everyone complained about having appointments and just what the principal was playing at. My heart was still pounding when Travis gripped my shoulder and asked, annoyed, “You okay? People here are so stupid.” I just nodded and I saw him pick up the notebook and read the owner’s name. The next second, the same notebook came flying once again and landed squarely on the person’s forehead, who turned crimson as everyone laughed.

“Travis.” I complained. He sent me a ‘what?’ look and faced to poor owner, “You know, you should think twice before throwing things at my little genius like that.” Laughter rippled through the room and short applause followed together with the whistle blowing.

Nice.

“You should – why don’t we just go down?” I told him under my breath and led the way back to our seats as everyone – thankfully – went back to their own matters. The moment I sat down, I grumbled to him, “You show off too much.”

“Well, you show too little.” He shrugged, “And of all people, you have a right to brag, you know.” 

“I don’t like to brag.”

“That’s why I’m doing it for you. Now about that school dance.” He crossed his leg toward me and faced me with an intense stare with his brow slightly creased, not saying anything. I licked my lips and shifted uncomfortably and his piercing blue eyes flickered with amusement. I somehow recovered my ability to speak, “So, are you going?” The corner of his lips curved and he slowly raised an eyebrow. He smiled enticingly, “Going with?”

“With, uhm, me?” I responded feebly. I feel like shriveling up into a ball and that’s just stupid. I heard his laugh right then and he kissed me on the cheek. Grinning, he said, “Why the hell are you so scared of me sometimes? And yes, I want to go with you. That’s why Mom brought you the dress.” My eyes widened.

“What exactly does your Mom know about me?”

He took a deep breath and said uncertainly, “Yeah, about that. Since tomorrow is a Saturday, she – she asked you to go to the beach with us.”

I stared.

“It’s not that bad! Dad will be there, too. And then there’s me. I won’t leave you and it won’t be awkward, I promised. She really wants to meet you.” I blinked at what he just said and found something odd.

“What about your Dad? Doesn’t he want to meet me?”

 He bit his lip and said, “I’m sure he’s looking forward to meeting you, but he’s really busy so he didn’t really exactly say it…”

“You’re lying.” A stab of panic git me and my heart slammed. My mind instantly scrambled for an excuse to be absent on the said beach activity. An alarming image came to my mind of Travis’ Dad eyeing me coldly…and shouting at me… 

“Avery.” He took my hands and rubbed soothing circles with his thumb. “My father is anti-social. It’s just that. He goes away for business meetings and not for parties. I’m sure there’s some psychology thingy that you know about his behavior. And the whole point of going to the beach was that they could finally meet you.” He stared at me searchingly and said, “Please come with me?”

My brow furrowed and I gritted my teeth, “Don’t look at me like that. You’re cheating.”

“Please?” he begged me for another five minutes and – can he just – who can blame me?!

“Fine,” I sighed. “But only because I’m madly in love with you.”

Delight filled his eyes as he laughed and kissed both of my hands, “That’s the spirit. I knew you’re always ready to comply.”

“That’s because you’re cheating and I’m biased.” I pouted.

As the afternoon slowly crept us by, we had no idea.

I wished I knew, that if I’d turn down the invitation to spend time with him tomorrow, this Friday afternoon would be the last time I would look at him the same way ever again.

With every fiber of my being, I’m thankful I said yes.

Chapter 22: The best and worst hangover

Chapter 22: The best and worst hangover (Wattpad)

Part I:

Hangover – the disagreeable after effects of drunkenness. 

Fuck that bullshit.

I can’t believe the human dictionary could be so incompetent in defining these kinds of things. It’s freaking nausea and headache at the same time, not to mention the humiliation that I’ve been anticipating when I’ll face my parents later.

I was so stupid! Why did I get drunk in the first place?! Now I can’t even recall what I did last night; only up to the point where Delsey was dragging me downstairs and we asked permission which we received immediately…then we were having a blast…then El joined in our crazy drinking session and then…

It’s fuzzy.

It’s too damned fuzzy for me to decipher. I slowly untangled myself from the sheets, trying not to wake Elaine and Delsey on either side of me and stood up unsteadily. I surveyed the bedroom and got a warm wave of relief when it was still in order. 

I sighed, tried to remember some other details from last night – and failed – and finally resigned to checking my phone. The first thing I checked was the inbox, though I don’t text much, and was unsurprised to see that there aren’t any new messages. I checked my call log next.

I gagged.

Names flashed through my eyes with sickening speed; Sarah, Travis, Unknown number, Sarah again. Damn this. I closed my eyes for a moment and didn’t open them yet – the dark was so much more inviting than the blinding nausea. 

So, all the people who called me last night are Cassie and the rest of the bunch, Travis, Sarah and lots of unknown people. 

Prank calls?

I slowly opened my eyes and considered it, but there were too many people who called for this to be a silly little joke. Just too many. Then with a mind-numbing thud, I remembered the blinding truth to everything that happened last night.

It all started with the blasted photos. Those magazines!

 

That must mean that these people are precisely just that – unknown. They’ve read the maagzines. The fucking magaaazines. So, to simplify it, I had been worried sick for the last few days because I thought my family would finally find out about Travis so I isolated them from him, but it turns out that I have to isolate them from the rest of the world.

Nice.

But I still couldn’t figure out what really happened last night. My subconscious was trying to remind me urgently but I can’t…aaargh.

What is it?

What the hell is it?

I swayed on my feet and settled on the floor slowly. God, I’ll never drink again. Ever. Why did I even do that? I must’ve been a bloody mess. Was I that depressed?

You were, scumbag.

Oh.

MESS. My mind is a galactic mess of sorts. Fuuuck. I can’t differentiate what I’ve been imagining from reality and do you know how hard that is? I don’t even curse this often, but fuck etiquette. Damn being nice.

Okay. I took a deep breath. So let’s tackle this nightmare one step at a time. 

Dad turned on the music. Yeah, that’s right; I remember that one as clear as day. Then I was serving drinks and Uncle Zed stopped me and we had a little chat. Oh, darn it. I told him about Travis. 

And after that, uhm. Fuck, my head hurts. Okay, after that, the party went smoothly and…speed stacks. We were playing speed stacks. Right, I remember that. I breathed in and out now, willing the nausea to ease. So, right after that, El told me about her Ethan and I…

Fuck.

That did not happen.

My eyes widened as I remembered the events at this very room. No, no, no! Aaargh. This is not acceptable. Of all the guys in this – this wretched life I have, it has to be him. He doesn’t even see me! For all I know on his part, I’m probably just his buddy who was kind enough – no, stupid enough – to help him. 

Biting my lower lip, I stood up cautiously and went to my cabinet. I opened one side and the full-body mirror instantly reflected me. I moved closer and scrutinized my appearance with an honest, critical eye.

I wish I hadn’t.

Bloodshot eyes – hangover or from crying? Why the hell would I even cry? I’m certainly not that depressed – same clothes from yesterday, though they look a lot deal more tattered. I look physically drained. I saw more – eyebags that looked forever etched to my skin and loose wavy hair that tumbled down in clumps from sleeping. I look like I’ve been diagnosed with cancer.

You’re not. You’re beautiful.

My eyes flashed. 

What was that? What the hell was that? I must be going senile. But as I scanned my brain for the source, I know they’ve been said to me last night. I know it. 

But, wait a second. Me? Beautiful? Yeah, thanks.

I stashed away the information inside my brain and went back to the topic at hand – Travis. So what the bloody hell about him?

I looked at myself in the mirror and I saw my cheeks flaming. Jesus Christ, it’s just his name. Then a strange thought crossed my mind.

What if he said that?

 

You’re beautiful.

As I watched, the color drained from my cheeks and the sparkle died in my eyes like sunset. They filled with tears.

Travis would never say that.

Part II:

This is different. I’ve always disregarded anything I feel, anything serious. But right now is another story. I’ll have to tread my path with him carefully from now on.

As I combed my wet hair, I stepped out of the shower and wrapped my body around my white bathrobe. I tied it securely, finally finished with my hair and looked at myself in the huge mirror.

I don’t look that bad anymore – there’s a pink tint on my cheeks from the warm bath and I looked as white as a porcelain doll, in the middle of the good and bad way. But my eyes are troubling me; they looked lifeless.

No will. No energy. All drained.

I sighed and my shoulders sagged. I’ve never felt so low in my life. Going with him in that park was a mistake. Spending that lunch with him was a mistake. This never should’ve happened. I should’ve seen it. 

I looked at myself in the mirror and I saw that I looked, if it was even possible, worse. I blinked and tears feel to the tiles beneath my feet. I can’t understand it, and I’m used to understanding. You can’t just leave someone torn up to pieces.

I wiped the tears from my face with the back of my hand, even though every part of my body feels broken. I took a deep breath and forced a smile on my face. It seemed to tear my face apart, but I kept the smile intact. I started gathering my things when my ringtone echoed through the bathroom space. My smile disappeared.

Shakily putting my belongings back, I took out my phone and felt even worse. Much, much worse.

Travis Warner, the caller ID simply said.

Pressing the answer key, I answered as normally as possible, “Hello.”

“Avery.” More tears fell as I heard his voice. I held the countertop and took a deep breath. Fuck it, Avery. “I think you called last night, but I can’t remember. Sorry.” 

“It’s all right. That’s why I called you.” When I bit my lip, I immediately tasted blood. “Travis?”

There was a pause before he replied, “Yes?”

“Nothing.” I changed my mind at the last second. Pretty stupid of me to say I love him when he doesn’t even like me back. I waited for his response but heard nothing. My brow furrowed in concern, “Travis? You okay?”

“I’m not.”

The words hit me hard. It squeezed my heart until I couldn’t breathe. As more tears streamed down my cheeks, my spirit spiraled even lower. How could he just say that?

“I…last night. Did I say anything?”

“Let’s talk when I get there.”

When you get here…

“I’ll wait for you.” I realized that I meant those words more than I let on.

Part III:

Fully dressed, I paced in Mom and Dad’s room, gathering courage for the inevitable. He’s on his way here. To my home. My heart thudded faster. When I checked earlier, my parents and all the other adults are having their morning coffee along with cookies. I escaped here just to prepare on how to give them a heads-up. 

So far, my mind is still a total blank.

No guts, no glory, my dear niece. 

Before I could lose the moment, I strode towards the door, and in no time, I’m already facing all of them. “Avery,” Aunt Adelaine said, “Coffee?” she offered, raising her own cup. As I shook my head no, Uncle Zed soundlessly offered the chair next to him for me to sit on. 

Everyone went on with the conversation and Uncle quickly slipped a hundred bucks in my pocket. I gave him a smile, which hopefully disguised my discomfort. 

Okay. This is it.

Taking a deep breath, I faced my parents at the head of the table. As if the hundred dollar bill gave me energy, I waited until Grandpa Ian finished his remark on their talk and smoothly joined in the conversation,

“Dad, Mom. You remember Travis, don’t you?”

Everyone’s eyebrows pitched rocketed upward aside from Uncle Zed, who was grinning excitedly. My parents were smiling but it was Dad who replied, “What about him, Ave?”

I sought my courage and forged on, “We talked last night and…and he’d really like to meet you all.”

Before anybody else could react, he chuckled and said, “Absolutely.” Mom smiled, “Where is he, darling?”

“He’s going to be here soon. I’ll wait outside.” I stood up and left the table because I don’t want to be there when they ask the questions. But my parents don’t even know Travis’ last name. Not even Uncle Zed.

They’ll find out sooner rather than later.

I pushed the door open and the fresh air greeted me the instant I took the first step over the threshold. The sun was beating down on me, but the heat is more bearable than not. Sighing, I walked on the gate and took three steps down and sat. What’s intended to happen will happen. Let’s just see how this damned thing goes.

3 minutes later

The instant I heard the sounds of what unmistakably be other than a vehicle, my tired muscles tensed and my senses sharpened. The only good thing about this is that I’m incredibly tired and still on hangover to boot. I restrained the urge to tear up and curse as the sight of his car showed up on my right and parked in front of our little home. 

My legs straightened on their own accord and I stood up. I was unfocused and detached from the world and I only saw the driver’s side opening and he came out. His eyes met mine at the next second and he walked purposefully towards me, his eyes never leaving me. 

It’s as if my universe became him and my everything became him. Now that I’ve set my eyes on him, I’m determined never to let him slip away from me. That would be impossible. It can’t be that way.

As if drawn to him, I met him halfway and the moment I can touch his skin, without thinking, I wrapped my arms around his familiar neck and pulled him down to me and kissed him like my life depended on it. And he did the same. I could even feel my feet being lifted from the ground and I felt only bliss, being complete and nothing else. 

My body was more than humming – it was craving. It seemed as if eternity had passed before we both pulled away at the same time and I looked in the bluest eyes I’ve had the privilege to see, to know, cherish and understand. It’s like I can see into his very soul and I wanted it that way. 

He didn’t smile and neither did I. So many turbulent emotions can be seen on the surface and there were still things to be sorted out. He just whispered.

“Maybe we should come in.”

Chapter 20: The bright side

Chapter 20: The bright side (Wattpad)

The word paparazzi took a whole new meaning. I clutched the magazine hard, as though it would erase the foreboding photo in front of me and change into something coherent and possible. Nevermind the laws of transition. This must work. This insanity must end. This atrocity, violence of – of my – violence of my privacy and of my well-being. And of my sanity.

My eyes swept through the cover title, though my brain was refusing to accept the words,

The lovestruck billionaire and the flare. Then below that was worse, mush worse. This month’s latest issue – 18 year-old heir to the fortune of Gedi Institute and his newfound love. For more information on Mr. Travis Warner and Ms. Avery Allton, see page 19.

Page fucking nineteen.

I held the rest of the package under my arm and frantically started flipping the pages. My breath went short – it’s a five-page article.

Five.

Pages.

The first page had Travis and I walking casually, but it had been shot at the most opportune moment; we were looking at each other. Intentionally or by accident, I don’t know, I don’t care, the headline read, The multi-million dollar relationship. And the byline in smaller letter size read, by Cassandra Watts.

I never in my life, wished anyone to rot in hell. Never, not until now. This Cassandra Watts should just stick it where the sun doesn’t shine. While my academic mind profusely reminded me that the sun literally doesn’t shine on the Arctic and Antarctic region, I started reading the first paragraph,

The media and the worldwide press has always been covering stories, issues and financial breakthroughs from the known company of Gedi Institute for high-ranking and high-flying lawyers in the city. Mr. Anthony Warner, age 35, has always been a prominent figure in the upper circles, as expected by everyone from his only son and heir, Mr. Travis Anthony Warner.

Mr. Warner, age 18, has had his own share of the public media and spotlight, but now, he may be able to bask in it. Following the events of yesterday afternoon, Mr. Warner was seen out with a Ms. Avery Allton. From very reliable sources, Ms. Allton has apparently, been in a relationship with Mr. Warner for many months and both are deemed to be serious with each other.

Ms. Allton, age 17, has some very surprising academic background and an IQ of 109. A new student at the same school with Mr. Warner, it is assumed by our sources that it was instant attraction that had them knowing each other. The couple, as their classmates had said, always “made time for each other” and it is undoubtedly clear in our photos that the statement is true to every inch. They were spotted at a local park in Melbourne, namely Royal Ridge Park, spending the warm afternoon walking, away from prying eyes. From the time – 

“Avery? The magazines.”

“Yes, Mom. Coming.” 

I turned back to the article, wiping my sweating brow with my arm. Words were swirling around my head, making me dizzy – some are full-out lies and the others are nothing but the horrifying truth. Months? It’s not bloody months, fuck their sources. And just who the bloody hell said that we were ‘making time with each other’? People at school are so twisted and wretched! They can’t just keep their mouths shut, can’t they? Just fuck this. 

Lies, lies, lies. And ‘instant attraction’? Just who the fucking hell do they think they’re kidding? And what is this shit with ‘serious with each other’ relationship?

It’s blatantly obvious that Cassandra Watts – whoever the hell she is – just ate some crap out of some ‘sources’ and published – published! – this fucking story without any heads-up of any fucking kind.

Just who do they think they’re dealing with?

And my IQ isn’t a hundred and fucking nine – it’s 113. I sat down on our lawn and spread out all the magazines before me – Billboard, Details, Ok! Magazines, U.S. Weekly, PopMatters, Life&Style Weekly, and some more others that makes me want to puke.

They all have different covers, different headlines, but one topic in general.

Fuck.

With a shaking hand, I picked a paper at random – Variety magazine. Its front cover was of Travis and I when we were back at the car. He was pinning me against his car, his arms snaking around my waist and my arms were doing the same with his neck. He was smiling radiantly, his assets in full-view mode, but it wasn’t that observation that made me stop and look.

It’s me. My face.

I had no idea what I could be thinking in that particular moment, but my physique looked more…vibrant. Alive. I looked really happy. Energetic and inexplicably happy. I remembered what Nicole said on the phone,

“I’m glad you found him.” 

I smiled involuntarily, flipped the magazine open and looked for the scoop. It said the same things all over again, but the way they told it made me look and feel like Cinderella. The pictures weren’t so bad – what I meant to say is that there are no photos where we kissed, and that’s the crucial part. Just the pictures where we were fooling around and of him taking a picture of me.

Now, in that picture, I definitely looked happy.

I sighed again, feeling the pressure close around me, trapping me with no way out. I breathed in and out, counting the seconds before exhaling. I bit my lip worriedly and faced me dilemma.

What should I do?

The most practical thing to do would be to call Travis now. And I mean, now, now. But Mom’s waiting for the blasted magazines and I really don’t know if I should…I glanced at the monstrous bamboos and a risky plan made its way to my mind.

The bamboos look tall and thick enough to cover Dad. What more to a harmless little package of magazines? This scheme is so childish, but this situation is pushing me and leaving me no choice in the matter. Childish be damned. I started getting up and stuffed the magazines back randomly when I paused.

So what should I tell Mom?

Mom, there has been a raging hurricane outside and I barely escaped with my life. Let’s just forget about the magazines and cherish each other and our family. 

No, I don’t think that would work.

Okay, slow down. There’s always a solution to a problem. I looked down at the package in my hands. It’s a matter of will, and it also relates to the fact of my readiness to tell them of my situation. Shit, I can’t do this. I can’t tell them now; I need time.

Five minutes later, I sighed. Okay, I’ll follow my subconscious thinking. To hell with everything. 

 

My legs moved forward shakily as I closed the door behind me. Elaine and the others went back to their game, but she glanced at me worriedly, asking, “You okay?”

“I’m fine.” I responded in a raspy voice. After clearing my throat I tried again, “I’m fine, El. I have a bit of a headache.” Her look of concern intensified. “Do you want me to get you something? Just sit down, Ave. No offense, but you look terrible.”

I feel more than that. ‘Terrible’ doesn’t even begin to cover what I’m feeling right now. It’s not even barely adequate.

“It’s okay, El.” I gave her a smile and before she could stop me, I moved forward to the dining table where my alder relatives are chuckling amusedly. Mom quickly turned to me, “Where – Avery, are you okay?” she urgently stood up and placed a hand on my cheek. Her hand was like a blaze of fire against my numb cheek. “Did you eat something, honey?” Do I really look sick?

“Nothing, Mom.” I guess I can use this to my advantage. 

“Ave, you alright?” Dad joined in the conversation in hushed tones while everybody else on the table went along as they were. “Did she eat something, hun?”

“I didn’t eat anything, Dad.”

“Well, why didn’t you?” Both of my parents asked in unison. Mom sad worriedly while Dad held my hand, “You didn’t eat anything?”

“Mom. I meant that I didn’t eat anything bad that I know of and Mom, they probably delivered the magazines in a wrong address; I didn’t see them.” Please, please, please. Surely, anybody can read the telepathic message I’m trying to send – 

“It doesn’t matter. Just rest upstairs, okay?”

My knees seemed to give in from my weight and I trembled violently. I exhaled. 

Someone up there must really love me.

“Ave, get better, m’kay?” Dad said as he pecked my cheek, “Now, let me help you up – ”

“Dad, it’s fine. I’ll go with Dels.” I need to speak to someone before I faint. “Okay,” he said. “Get better, Ave.”

“Rest, okay?” Mom reminded.

“Will do.” And with that, I started towards Delsey, who was lounging on the couch reading a book. I stood awkwardly in front of her and tried to keep my cool. “Dels? Can you help me for a minute?” She looked up from the book and immediately, her expression morphed from curious to absolute concern. 

“Ave? Are you okay?” She discarded the book without even putting her bookmark. “You look like ice.” She started getting up and out a hand on the small of my back. “C’mon. Let’s get you upstairs.” I didn’t even bother replying because I know she would just tell me to shut my mouth tight as a coffin. And I’m really tired.

I somehow managed to get to the second landing and she gently pushed my bedroom door open and settled me on the bed. I lay down and immediately felt extreme comfort and weariness at the same time. I can’t help closing my eyes and breathing in deeply.

“Hmm.”

I opened my eyes again and saw Delsey assessing me with her eyes narrowed in speculation and her hands on her hips. She pursed her lips and then moved forward. While removing my flip-flops, she lectured.

“Don’t tell me you have been eating something not good for you. You really look terrible, Ave. Like that girl from the Corpse Bride.”

“Thanks, Dels.” I muttered in a hoarse voice. That was extremely encouraging and just what my ego needed. She instantly erased what she said in my mind with a warm smile. “I was just joking. You should look in the mirror more closely.” Yeah, and see my skinny self. That’s nothing new. I grabbed a pillow from over my head and hugged it tightly. My caring cousin sat down by me on the bed and surveyed my face. 

“I know what you’re thinking, Ave. And I’m guessing the reason why you’re so out of shape is because of some problem. Am I right?”

She’s such a mind reader, but I think that’s one of the qualities that made her such a good role model for us. I sat up slowly and faced her.

“Before I say anything, uhm. Could you please remind your Dad about my ten bucks? He was going to give me, you see.”

“Got it. So what’s the big problem?”

I sighed and looked deep in her eyes. Okay, no beating around the bush this time. I licked my lips and started, “I have this problem. A really, really big problem. And I really don’t see how – ”

“Is there a solution?” she suddenly cut me off, her eyes testy. “Ave?” she prompted.  Why is she asking that? Shouldn’t she be asking about the problem?

“Yes, there is. There is a solution.”

“Then why are you worrying?”

That was unexpected.

For a moment, I couldn’t speak. Of course, I’m worrying because – it’s just – it’s a fucking problem! We’re supposed to be worried sick over them. But her remark had me thinking. If there is a solution, then why am I worried? I bit my lip again and looked at her and I saw her smiling like she knows what I’m going through. 

“What if there’s no solution?” I said, “At all? No solution to this miserable problem that I’ve gotten myself into – ” I was cut off by her laugh and she said, “You sound silly, Ave.” Silly? How the hell could I be silly? “What?” I asked her, still puzzled. 

“You said so yourself – there is no solution. None at all. So why are you still worrying?”

“But – I don’t have a choice! You don’t even know – no one knows!” I said hysterically. Damn. She’s really good in these things. Delsey arched her eyebrow slowly. “Well, then. You’ll just have to tell me everything, right?”

20 minutes later

Her hand was trembling as she held the page torn off from a magazine. I held my breath, having explained everything to her already as she turned to the next torn page. Then the next. And the next one.

Slowly, she raised up her stoic face and met my gaze. She released a breath I hadn’t known she’d been holding and she only said seven words, as though she’s in a dream-like state, “You’ve got to be fucking with me.”

I exhaled. 

“Ave, this is – this – wow. I can’t – ” she looked at lost for words and she just gaped at me soundlessly. “Look,” I started. “I know this looks ridiculous and you’re probably waiting for me to shout ‘Happy April Fools’ but the point is that it’s really, really true and it’s not April.” To be honest, my speech looks like it had no effect on her.

“So, you’re in a relationship with Travis Warner. The Travis Warner.” She chuckled in disbelief, “I’ve read about him a few times.” She shook her head and chuckled again. “Wow, Ave – just – wow.” She blinked rapidly and said, “Do you want a quick math?”

No, I don’t like that. The term we use for my counting disorder is ‘quick math’ but Delsey looked so expectant that I felt like I really had no choice in the matter.

“Dels, you know how I hate that…thing.” I gave her a withered look as I elaborated, “It makes me feel like a freak, as though I’m in a circus for weird people.”

“You, Avery Jacob Allton, are not a freak.” She stressed out then said, “Now, Ave. Two hundred, fifty-six thousand, one hundred forty-two minus five thousand, two hundred thirty-one?”

“Two hundred fifty six thousand, nine hundred eleven.” I answered, bored. Really. I feel like a monkey behind bars in a freaking zoo. Delsey’s eyes spoke out her awe for the disorder and I resisted the urge to grit my teeth. It’s not her fault that I’m an abnormal person. I had to live with it for seventeen years. She suddenly said,

“I don’t think the quick math is helping.” She bit her lip as I replied, “Yeah. It makes the headache worse.” Then she smiled.

“I have the perfect alternative.”