Travis' List

Travis' List (Wattpad)

Things I love about Avery

She’s smart as hell.

She’s fun to annoy.

She’s very cute.

She helps anyone – exactly like an angel.

She’s easy to persuade.

She’s funny.

She can be adorable when she’s angry.

I like kissing her.

I never met a seventeen year-old who doesn’t climb trees.

She has panic attacks.

Her blush is nice.

She can be a good kisser. Can be.

I dreamt about her. Weird.

She’s different.

Her scowl is adorable.

I like her laugh.

I like her hair.

I like her scent.

I like her smile.

I like her mood swings.

I like her voice.

I think I’m in love with her.

Epilogue

Epilogue (Wattpad)

Guilt.

Travis had been living with it a year now, after that drastic chain of events took place for the both of them. A whole year, yet Travis had never let go, never forgot. And he never will.

He stared at the same decrepit white wall. White is the color for purity, yet the hue seemed to mock at him everytime. But it was better than looking at the ring on his finger. He never removed it, but it only causes sheer torture when he gives it the slightest glance.

Everyone was petrified when they found out. And they all blamed him for everything. Every single thing. The burning expressions from everyone as they looked at Avery through the small glass door were agony to him. Every single one of them put the blame on his shoulders; her parents, her friends, and her family all looked at him differently. They sent him silent, but hurt, angry and betrayed looks.

Right after everyone had found out, Travis’ world shattered like brittle glass. Evidences point that Avery, while still being held captive, got hold of the rapist’s knife and stabbed him multiple times – forty-two times. She’d been unconscious in the hospital for many days; days where every loved one visited, took care and guarded over her. But when Travis walks in, the tension in the air rises, speaking louder than words. Everyone prayed that she would wake up.

When she did, they regretted every prayer.

A psychiatrist said that this was normal, but to Travis’ mind, it’s not. She would come back to him, surely. She would, wouldn’t she? 

But two days later, they transferred her to the asylum. She kept screaming every single day and she would not let any male approach her – only Travis.

He didn’t know if it was a blessing or a curse. Every person who attempts to go near her to talk or calm her down – even her parents – always comes out hurt and injured and she shouted at them. Only he could come on her and when he did, she would bury herself in his arms and succumb to heartbreaking tears, murmuring nonsensical words over and over. 

They had so much love together, but so little time. He’d do anything he could to give them more time. Anything. She had her whole life ahead of her and yet she’s here. Slowly wilting. Not even in control of her mind. This shouldn’t have happened to her. A person like her deserves more, so much more.

She deserves to be happy, secure and everything good in the world. She should be with him.

But she isn’t. She’s here. 

Chapter 29: Toward the end

Chapter 29: Toward the end (Wattpad)

Part I: 

I blinked my eyes open and drew the blanket higher up to my chin. I seemed to be half-asleep, but my mind persistently whispered to me that a blanket was out of place. Odd. The sunlight streaming through the windows did a bit of disorientation to my eyes, but then my mind shouted that a window is definitely off set. Groaning sleepily, I rubbed my eyes and tried to make sense of my surroundings.

My bedroom.

I slowly sat up and looked around. Next, I looked at myself and tried to remember if I put on the nightgown I was wearing. Surely, I did wear that. But the funny thing is, I can’t recall at all. How the hell can I not remember if I wore something or not?

I suddenly heard a soft knocking and I said in a sleepy voice, “Come in.” I wasn’t at all surprised when Mom came in, smiling pleasantly. What caught me off guard was the tray of food she was carrying.

“Breakfast in bed?” I asked good-humoredly as she approached me with a chuckle. She had her hair in a bun today, so that must mean that she has to go to the bank. I sat up gingerly as she set the tray in front of me. 

“We figured that you’ll be really groggy and grumpy when you wake up, so your Dad prepared this.” 

I blinked. “Dad?” I looked at the toast, sunny side-up and bacon that looks just perfect. I somehow find that hard to believe. “Dad made this?” I asked for the second time. Mom nodded her response and added, “I made your juice.” I looked at the orange juice beside the plate and smiled at her, “Thanks, Mom. And I’m not grumpy.” I chuckled.

“You were asleep when Travis dropped you back; your Dad had to carry you up the stairs.” She smiled at the memory. I imagined my soft-natured father carrying me all the way to my bedroom. “Is he okay?” I laughed.

“He’s fine. And about your school dance for tonight – what will you wear?” she had her eyebrows up and I quickly went to the defense before she harbors any ideas, “Remember the dress from last Friday?” Realization dawned on her and she nodded approvingly. “I won’t be home until later tonight, okay? Just rest or you’ll pass out in front of everyone when you go dancing.” Then she smiled. “Have fun, Ave. See you later.”

“Bye, Mom.” She kissed my forehead lightly and smiled at me one last time before going out.

I faced the tray of food and took a sip from the juice. So, I fell asleep; mystery solved. As I started to eat my breakfast, I thought of the day ahead. I find it uncomfortably strange that I have nothing to do but wait for tonight. But at that moment, I didn’t think much about anything except the fun I hill have at the event and how everyday seems to be an occasion of some sort.

But tonight has far more in store for me, and everyone I held dear.

Part II:

It’s six-thirty pm. For some parts of the morning and the whole of afternoon, I tried to fill up my day with activities right after I prepared for the upcoming event tonight. I tried to watch the television after taking a bath but gave up quickly after being bored to tears. I honestly don’t know how people stand to watch others do some drama on the screen. 

I read two pocketbooks in a row and called my friends, deciding that we should meet inside the school gym where the school dance is being held for maybe atleast, ten minutes before it starts. I gave them my okay to them and as I placed the receiver back to its place, I remembered biting my lip and wondering what to do next. Dad insisted on taking a nap and I walked upstairs like a zombie, intending to do just that, but I didn’t expect a simple nap to last atleast six hours. 

“Two kings.” Dad muttered, putting two cards on the table between us and took a bite of his toast.

“Bluff?” I guessed, holding my breath. He heaved a great sigh and upturned his cards, which were certainly not kings and added both to his deck. “I’m not a good liar.” 

I laughed. “I got that from you, then.” I finished the toast on my right hand and shuffled my cards and resumed the game with a pair of threes.

We’ve been playing for thirty minutes straight while eating toast. I already beat Dad five times, much to my amusement. I was waiting for his turn when he said, “I quit.”

I burst out laughing at the defeated look on his face. “Come on, Dad. One more round?”

“Not a chance.” He shook his head, albeit smiling. He said gruffly, “Why don’t you go and get dressed and put on your make-up or something?”

“I don’t do make-up.” I remarked as I arranged the whole deck of cards and put it on a small box.

“I still want to see you in that new dress of yours before you go clubbing.”

“Dancing, not clubbing, Dad. Seriously, I don’t even go near clubs.” I rolled my eyes  as he looked at me with in endearment and he said, “Sorry, honey. So why don’t you prepare a fashion show for me?”

“I’m on it.” I jumped to my feet and went up the stairs to my bedroom, taking note of my appearance at once on the mirror of my cabinet. No more eyebags – not bad. I took the dress and removed it from the hanger and began taking off my clothes and pulled the dress over my head. It actually feels fine, and I don’t look really bad at all. The white swirling designs are very nice to look at and – oh no. I twisted my torso around and looked at the complicated strings on my back, still untied.

I can’t believe I’ve forgotten it was a criss-crossing type of silly dress. I carefully reached back and tightened the two strings and tied it like a ribbon. I combed my hair until it’s ridiculously smooth and shiny before putting on topaz earrings and a simple necklace with fine chains. I didn’t bother with any ring as I looked at the one I’m wearing. Without being aware of it, I smiled at the name painted on the ring. 

I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

The real challenge was the heels. I stared at the three-inch…thing, and wondered if I might break my ankle or fall flat on my face. I debated for five more minutes before finally grabbing them and putting them on.

I took a deep breath and faced the mirror. I look...different and strangely normal at the same time. Different because I feel, tall. The black heels did a lot of work, I admit. But I saw some people wear more outrageous outfits than this, so I feel normal. As normal as I can be, anyway. I didn’t put anything on my face save for a lip gloss and I got my matching black pouch, which I filled with my wallet, temporary cellphone, and a few other necessities. 

Finally I went out to the hall and found Dad waiting at the bottom of the stairs.

“You look wonderful.” I walked down with care and kissed him lovingly on the cheek. “You’re biased as Mom, but thank you.”

He laughed, “I’m not biased, you’re too hard on yourself.” Then he escorted me to the door and gave me a really tight hug. “Have fun ‘til you can’t breathe, okay? You’re only in highschool once.” I giggled as he pulled back, “Yes, and thank God for that.” 

He gave me one last kiss on the head and a smile. Before I went out into the night, I blew him our trademark flying kiss.

The kiss that meant one of us will be away from quite some time.

Chapter 27: The threat of time

Chapter 27: The threat of time (Wattpad)

Part I:

How is it that your bestfriends suddenly agree with your mother?

Oh my gosh, that’s wonderful! I remembered Nicole exclaiming over the telephone and I grimaced, I never thought you’d ever wear a bikini – you said you hated it! But I’m really happy for your recent changes.

But I think I approve of Theresa’s reaction.

You? Bikini? Is this a prank call? You’re not Avery, are you?

She’s really sensible. But when I called at Cassie’s place with high hopes that she’ll be the same, it felt like aiming a boomerang at yourself.

PICTURES! I need the bloody pictures! Call me as soon as you’re home and Travis better not screw this one up. And Lexi’s here. She’s sick, though, but she’s giving you the thumbs-up so I think she’s cool with it. Avery Warner, I’ll be watching out for the pictures. Capiche? 

Yes, she’s calling me by Avery Warner since she found out about the rings. Actually the whole lot of them do, but I really don’t mind. Okay, I admit, it sounds nice.

I chewed my lip as my flip-flops tapped against our pristine white floor and I fingered the hem of my summer dress for the millionth time. Again, I rummaged inside my white canvas bag to check if I have everything. I breathed out. Okay, I got everything. I’m safe – for now.

I was extremely conscious of the thing I’m wearing beneath the dress. Aaargh. I’m not supposed to wear bloody bikinis.

“Avery, it’s going to be okay.” Dad said over his morning coffee. Behind him, Mom nodded her approval, just resting after she cleaned the entire second floor of the house.

“I hope so, but this thing is just overkill and I – ”

We all heard a car pull up on the driveway and followed by a familiar honking.

I gulped.

This is really, really, really bad. I don’t like what I’m wearing at all. I would give up every single thing I own – 

“Avery, why don’t you open the door?” Mom smiled sweetly.

“Thanks a bunch, Mom.” I muttered under my breath as I hooked my bag over one shoulder and walked unsteadily to the front door. As I swung it open, my breath caught in my throat.

I’m suddenly in love with khaki.

He was there, smiling brightly with a glint in his eyes that would make anyone passing by swoon, and age is irrelevant to my assumption. He was wearing khaki shorts and a grey jacket over his plain white shirt and the sun shining down on his chocolate hair was just mmm.

“You ready?”

I bit my lip and nodded, trying to appear calm and totally in control of myself. Which I am not. At all.

“Just wait a sec.” he stepped forward and caught both of my hands in his grasp and dusted a kiss on my nose. “I love your look. You’re beautiful.” He gave me a lingering kiss on my cheek and hugged me tightly. I laughed out loud, “You’re not bad yourself.” He pulled away, grimacing. “This? I had no idea what I was wearing.” He laced my fingers with his as he often did and I still can’t believe that it’s a perfect fit. He said, “Before we make out in my car, maybe I should say hi to your parents first.”

I burst out laughing and nodded my consent, leading him through the threshold and turned to the direction of the table where Mom and Dad area already looking at us.

Both of us waved and they smiled. Mom called out, “Have fun.”

“Will do.” We answered both at the same time. Before going out, I sent Dad a flying kiss, which became our habit when one of us goes somewhere for quite some time.

That is truly a blessing for us, since no one could have anticipated what would happen in the next forty-eight hours.

Part II: 

In a way, for some chosen lives, history does repeat itself. But in my case, it was different. Entirely different. When something gives an omen before anything comes striking, either death of a loved one or yourself, you should watch out for it. But as I got myself in the car with the love of my life, I wasn’t watching out for anything. It’s foolish; no one could ever have known, but I still blame myself for what became of myself a day from this beach trip. But then, I was happy. I was content. 

Was.

Excitement surged through me as Travis turned on the engine, with mischief evident in his eyes.  “I can’t keep my hands to myself, so I’ll just…” he quickly revved up the car and turned to the next possible corner and twisted the key. I barely heard the dying growl of the engine when Travis leaned forward and kissed me without a second thought.

He took my face into both of his hands and started out gently, but I couldn’t help myself. My hands splayed across his muscular chest and pressed closer and his mouth became firm on mine, the pressure increasing. His hand was now on the back of my neck, keeping me in place, and the other one was on the small of my back, gripping tightly and making me tremble. He swept my tongue on my upper lip and I clutched hungrily on his shirt, raining kisses on his chin. Then, he kissed my temple and moved back, his hair mussed and lips swollen. He cupped my face and gently put our brows together and I could see to the very depths of his blue eyes, which were empowered by emotion.

“I love you.”

An incredible feeling washed over me, making me feel string and very weak at the same time. I felt a smile unconsciously appear on my lips and I murmured, “I love you, too.” I heard his chuckle and his eyes sparkled brighter than any star I’ve seen. 

Even inside the car, I could see the trees branches and leaves whipping with the criss-crossing directions of the wind as we came closer to our destination. Apprehension clawed its way to me again and I bit my lip. “So,” I cleared my throat then tried again, “So, were going to your beach. Your private beach.”

“Yes.” Travis answered, smiling as he drove through the road with ease that made him unbearably sexy.

“And nobody’s around except for us.”

“There’s the lifeguard.” He shrugged.

“Right.” I breathed in and exhaled to calm myself. “The lifeguard.”

“Yes, the lifeguard.” He flashed his complete smile while keeping his eyes straight in, but I could tell he’s immensely enjoying this. I can’t even bring myself to be annoyed because I’m being swallowed whole by panic. I’ve seen enough photos of Travis parents on countless magazines but it’s entirely different when you’re intending to meet them. Words like billionaire, company and scared are swirling around my brain and warning me of an impending doom – which is probably an understatement, but I don’t care; I’m scared out of my wits.

What would happen if they came to the conclusion that I’m the most horrible girl in the world? They won’t drown me, won’t they? I so hope not.

“What are you thinking?” he asked out of nowhere as he took a left. I swallowed hard before answering in a shaky voice, “I-I’m just thinking. They won’t drown me, right? It’s your beach, after all – ”

“If they do, I’ll jump in and save you.”

I gulped. “You will?” He laughed and I know we’re probably thinking the same thing – that the idea’s really absurd, but he didn’t seem to mind.

“I’ll always save you.”

Then he slowed to a stop in front of a guardhouse and beyond, I could already see colourful banners raised high and ruffled by the wind. They lined along the gravel path that leads to the tropical-looking huts and nooks made of indigenous resources. And I’m scared as hell.

Travis then opened his car window and nodded up to the middle-aged man in uniform who looked alert and wary. What for, I have no idea; no one seems to be around the area and it’s not as if someone can just pass through. I think.

“Sir.” He inclined his head and with a flourish, retrieved a small tab from behind him and put it in front of Travis, who put his palm on the center of the white grid. It immediately beeped and the lines on the grid turned green.

Whoa.

Are we entering a beach or a secret facility? The palm access thingy is just overboard. I mean, do we look like terrorists? And as if that wasn’t enough, the guard turned the tab around and I saw a lens – bigger than any I’ve ever seen before. Travis aligned his right eye with the lens and the same, little grid sprang to life, screening his eye and after an instant came the beep and the glow of color green.

“Thank you. Have fun, sir.” The man muttered as Travis closed the window, but not before I saw him give me an intensely curious look and turn away.

“I really enjoy that part.” Travis said as we sped through the path among the huts, on the way to the sound of the waves clashing not far away. “When I was a kid, I used to play James Bond.”

I don’t think my brain is functioning. What happened to the standard manual search where you actually use your hands? I glanced at Travis, who was patiently waiting for my reply. “Uhm. Was that a retina scan?”

“Yeah. Only allows access to retina patterns from myself, Mom and Dad. It’s too much, don’t you think?”

“Yeah…too much.” I replied dazedly. I heard his chuckle and he slowed to a stop in front of a particularly huge hut, with benches and whit lounge chairs facing the white sand.

“Here we are.” He stated with an irresistible glow.

“I’m going to die.” 

“I’ll die with you, then.” He shrugged, finally facing me. I breathed in and out and licked my lips, gripping my canvas bag tighter, “That won’t be necessary – ”

“Oh, look. There they are.” 

I froze as my eyes landed on two people on the shore of the beach. They’re far away from us for me to really see their features but there was no mistaking the towering figure of Travis’ father, who wore black slacks and white shirt, partly obscured by a black overcoat as dark as his hair. Even from this distance, I can see his ominous scowl that dominated any other expression on his face.

But before I lost my mind altogether and ran for it, the petite lady beside him waved, her royal blue dress fluttering slightly in the breeze. She had her hair on a ponytail, but I could see that the hue is exactly the same as Travis’. And if her husband is scowling, she clearly doesn’t make too much of it as she smiled happily, clasping her arm around his.

Their polar opposites, I can sense it.

“Your first impression?” Travis asked as he took gold of my sweating hand.

“They’re clearly…opposites.”

My uncertain statement was followed by his laugh and he kissed my palm lovingly. “I don’t think you will die.” Mustering some courage from his words, I looked at the same couple on the shore, the waves lapping at their bare feet and ankles. 

I took a deep breath, “Do I act the angelic girlfriend or the wild, carefree one?” He smothered a chuckle by biting his full bottom lip and said, “It would be really interesting to see you try the second, although I prefer you to act just like yourself.”

“Act like myself.” I nodded. “Got it.”

A few seconds later, we got out of the car, hand in hand. I steeled myself to meet the person who, unknowingly, changed the course of my life forever.

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 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.”