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 23: Spell perfect

Chapter 23: Spell perfect (Wattpad)

The indescribable feeling was still there when we were both on the doorway. But when I heard my cousins, I knew this wasn’t a good idea to begin with. 

“Avery!” the twins chorused from the couch. They were eating cookies and it was obvious that they just woke up from their identical sleep-filled eyes – eyes like their father’s – and their tousled blonde hairs.

“Hey, guys.” They were looking at me expectantly and gazed at Travis like he was a new toy from Christmas. I looked at them, then to Travis – who seemed adorably uncomfortable – and then to the dining table, where they were speaking and it’s obvious they haven’t seen us yet.

I gripped Travis hand and smiled at him encouragingly, “I think it would be better to meet the adults first.” He nodded his response and smiled to me as well. I turned to the pouting twins and mouthed later. To them and made our way to the dining table.

“Mom?”

They all turned around and I bristled from their stares. They were looking at me like I’ve done something forbidden yet, they approved of it. Mom, being the savior, stood up immediately and faced Travis. He smiled shyly and said, “Good morning, Mrs. Allton.”

She laughed, “Please don’t call me Sylvia; it makes me feel younger. So, you must be Travis.” She appraised him for half a second and said, “Why don’t you sit down?” she gestured at the seat on Dad’s left and I pulled him with me. When I seated myself beside him, from across the table, I mouthed a thank-you to my Mom and she winked back. Then I saw my Dad.

“Uhm…Dad? Daddy, you okay?”

He was staring off to space but when I called him twice he blinked and focused on me properly. He smiled and after a second, looked at Travis. He offered his hand.

“Travis Warner, if I’m not mistaken?”

“Yes, sir. That’s me.” They shook hands.

That explains it.

Mom arched an eyebrow which I responded with a shrug and Uncle Zed regarded me as if he’s seeing me in a different light. They all are. I only smiled at Travis uncomfortably to avoid the stares and Dad said, “Travis, why don’t you introduce yourself properly to everybody?”

“I think Avery should do it.” Uncle Zed piped up. He smiled wide and looked at me, “Right, Ave?” 

I met his gaze head-on, “Actually, I – ”

“Travis?” Mom said, breaking up the little argument. Picking up the cue, he faced the table in general and said in a perfect voice, his charm and smile in full mode, “Hello, everybody. My name is Travis Anthony. It’s nice you meet you all.”

I released a breath I didn’t know I’d been holding.

Uncle Rence’s brow furrowed, “Does your family own the GI? If you don’t mind me asking.”

“Yes, we do. Mom and Dad wanted to be here but they’re on a business trip at Singapore, so it’s just me for now.” He smiled winningly. 

“So what had you going after our Avery?” Grandpa asked. Aaargh. This situation is complicated enough, thank you Grandpa. Travis chuckled and under the table, his thumb traced soothing patterns against my skin. He said, “I could give you a list, but I don’t think I want to spend my entire life holding a pen and a paper.” 

The others on the table chuckled and one by one, everyone introduced themselves and started firing their questions. Unsurprisingly, Travis answered them all with complete ease and he relaxed against his chair, lightening the awkward tension in the room. 

Ten minutes passed and everyone was now laughing, telling stories of their own. The atmosphere became more light and comfortable and Travis just seemed to fit in perfectly with everyone else. In the midst of it all, Travis glanced at me and raised an eyebrow, as if to say, You okay?

I smiled tiredly in return, not bothering to answer properly and then I heard the twins. “Daddy,” Harvey and Nique said in unison as they went up to the table and tugged at each of Uncle Rence’s arms, “Why do you meet him? We want to talk to him, too.” They said, still synchronized. All attention were on them now as they pouted at exactly the same second and whined, “But that’s not fair!” Uncle Lawrence regarded and smiled at them patiently – I marvel at how he does that, seeing as those two can be quite evil as much as they appear to be cute. “But you have to promise not to pull any pranks on Travis, okay? Avery will not bake you cookies again if you do that.”

“Oh, no. We’ll be nice.” Harvey said with a huge grin on his face. That boy’s an excellent liar, trust me. I had my experience and I’ve known forever since that I need to be careful with what he says. Without another word, Nique dragged him by the arm and their Dad said, “Nique, what did I say about dragging your older brother?”

She slowed down. “Sorry, Daddy.” She sent him an irresistible smile and a flying kiss and they both stood in front of Travis and to Dad’s left. They were just smiling like Travis is a new package from Santa or the Easter Bunny.

I have a really bad feeling about this.

“Uhm…I’m sorry, but pranks?” Travis whispered in my ear as the twins spoke to Aunt Laine and he gazed at the twins with something close to skeptism. “They look awfully cute and innocent to be pranking someone.” That’s exactly what I thought before.

“Just be careful. The last time they pulled a prank, it was quite, uhm, unexpected.” I hope he survives.

“I’ll give you a kiss goodbye if I live long enough, then.” He winked at me confidently and faced the twins. I whipped my head to Uncle Lawrence with my eyes screaming panic and he just shrugged helplessly and mouthed, Sorry in advance. 

That’s helpful.

“Hi, I’m Travis.” he smiled at them. The twins smiled sweetly in return and said, “Hello.”

“Hi, I’m Harvey. I’m five years old and seven minutes older.” He smiled swiftly. “I like you already.” Travis laughed and responded, “Well, I’m flattered. Thank you, Harvey.” Harvey offered his hand in a casual, but unmistakable way.

“Harvey.” Everyone on the table mildly scolded. I immediately grabbed both of Travis’ hands away from my cousin’s reach and he looked extremely baffled.

“What? Did I do some – ”

“It’s not you.” I looked at Harvey while he pouted and let his hand fall limp to his side, “But Daddy!” he whined loud enough so he can hear, “I was being nice!” Then the little devil looked at me, still pouting. “Avery, you’re not sharing.”

I don’t even own this guy.

“Please remove that thing, whatever it is, from your palm, Harvey.” I smiled in I’m-good-so-listen-to-your-big-cousin way and not end up looking electrocuted myself. “I know you have one of those freaky electronic skins. You too, Nique.”

Pouting terribly. Harvey slowly started peeling the skin-like pranking tool from his palm and then I turned to Nique. Grandpa Ian said, “Put it away now, darling.”

“You don’t want Travis getting hurt.” Dad supplied. Speaking of Travis, he was looking incredibly at Harvey, struck speechless.

“Nique.” Prompted Uncle Rence.

“But I don’t have one! Promise, Daddy. I really don’t. You believe me, don’t you, Travis?” she turned to him with her puppy dog eyes look that melted even my heart. Little scumbag.

“Whatever you wanted to use Niq, please put it down on the table.” I said to her, hoping for the best. The good thing about here is that it’s still early and they just woke up, so they’re still kind of mellow. Mellow equals more chance of avoiding disasters.

She heaved a little sigh and put her hand to her pocket and retrieved from it a Ziploc filled with black, crawling spiders. 

Travis blanched. 

“Goodness, gracious.” I heard Aunt Laine murmur. 

“But, Aunt Laine! I was saving these for later. I’m not going to use it now.”

 

“You…you little…” I can’t even describe the words I want to say to her. I looked at Travis pale face as he regarded the transparent plastic with wide eyes, his entire frame frozen. 

I turned to Nique and scowled, “Could – could you please keep that away, Niq? I’m serious, okay? I don’t want to see that ever again.”

“Okay, Ave.” she put the cursed things away from sight and she and her twin brother raced up the stairs with barely concealed glee. Everyone made small talk again and I faced Travis, pursing my lips. He was looking at me as well, confusedly shaken. 

“I do hope that didn’t freak you out much.” I said in a hush tone, “It’s just them, you know. But they’re really adorable when they’re not pulling those little games.”

“Little.” He muttered, “Yeah, I’m okay.”

“Travis?” Uncle Rence spoke in an apologetic tone, “I’m so sorry about my twins. I don’t know where they got that but they’ve always liked to…play as long as we can remember.” 

“It’s okay, sir.” Travis responded with a smile, “I’ll keep that in mind.” Before anyone else could say anything, we heard footsteps on the direction of the stairs and before I saw her, I heard Elaine say, “I’m telling you, that car on the driveway gives me vibes. I think’s something’s up, but I’m not really sure…”

“You’re still on hangover, El. I think you’re just imagining things.” I heard Lorraine say. Then a second later, all four of them came to view – Delsey, Elaine, Lorraine and little Kat – and they stood transfixed, looking at Travis on the table.

“Uhm…” Elaine was at loss for words and decided to just come forward and say, “Good morning, Daddy.” She came up to Uncle Zed and pecked him on the cheek and the rest started to follow suit. I heard Unle Lawrence demanding Delsey how many bottles she’d downed last night and the table was buzzing with conversation again. I smiled encouragingly at Travis who seemed to recover fully from his phobia attack and he smiled back at me, his eyes shining. I was tongue-tied for a moment but I managed to say, “Those are my other cousins. You’re safe from them.” He chuckled, flashing his all-too-perfect smile, “Thanks a bunch.”

“Hi, Travis.” Delsey smiled at the time she’s in front of him, “Avery told me all about you.” Her eyes twinkled.

“I did not.” I said through clenched teeth. She ignored me playfully and offered her hand, “I’m Delsey.” I saw Travis hesitate for a fraction of a second before shaking her hand, “Nice to meet you.” He smiled, winning her easily.

“Same here.” Then surprising us both, she said, “Let me guess, you have arachnophobia.” My brow furrowed and Travis looked stunned, “Wha – how did –”

“My sister’s upstairs, fiddling with the creepy little things. Just a little tip – don’t use the upstairs bathroom.” She smiled, “Speaking of which, I’ll have to check on her, please excuse me.” She sent me a wink and went upstairs.

We could all use a sister like her.

Then I saw Elaine and her two younger sisters come from over Travis’ shoulder. El mouthed, What the bloody hell, Ave? Lorraine gave me the thumbs up and mouthed as well, He’s hot! Nice work.

Aaargh.

I cleared my throat and nudged Travis with my shoulder. “Travis, meet the Charlie’s Angels.”

“Shut up, Ave. I’m Elaine.” She stepped forward and put in a happy grin. “You can call me El. It’s nice to finally meet you.”

Right, El.

“I’m Lorraine.” As they shook hands, she said, “Don’t bother with a nickname, I don’t have one.” He chuckled in response and lastly, Kat appraised him with open, guileless eyes. She smiled. “I like you already.”

She is so cute! With her silky brunette hair and huge eyes and those cheeks! I didn’t notice that I was gaping at her when Travis laughed at my expression and gave me a quick kiss on the cheek. He turned to Kat.

“What’s your name, darling?”

“Kat.”

As I saw the exchange, my mind flew elsewhere. My cheeks were flaming and I can’t believe what happened or why I’m even feeling like this. It’s just a kiss on the cheek. 

But my mind reveled on the fact that the gesture was more natural than not.

“Do you want to play with me?” she started tugging at Travis’ sleeve while El and Lorraine circled the table to grab some cookies and other biscuits. He smiled, “Sure, just wait a second.” He excused himself from the table and we both got up. Unexpectedly, he picked up Kat and carried her to the living room. She was giggling delightfully and I sat on the rug across from them, bewildered.

“Correct me if I’m wrong, but I think you have a thing for children.”

He winked at me. “I actually do.” He turned to Kat who was standing up, eye level with him though he was squatting down. “What do you want Kat?” he asked and her face scrunched up in cute concentration and her little fists gripped his chocolate colored hair, “Why do you look so pretty?”

Travis laughed and said, “I’m not pretty. Your cousin Avery is.” 

I burst out laughing as he looked at me and reached out for my hand. “Please tell me what’s so funny.” Unconsciously lacing my fingers through his, I replied, “It’s just funny. Considering the fact that I probably look like garbage because I’m still on hangover.”

He smiled gently and leaned forward. In an act so uncharacteristically unlike his, he kissed my temple softly and whispered, 

“You’re not. You’re beautiful.”

Chapter 15: The damned park

Chapter 15: The damned park (Wattpad)

“Why are you still freaking out?”

I bit my lip worriedly. We were in his car – a Jaguar, what else could I expect? – and we were heading to the bloody park. When we got out of the bathroom, we didn’t encounter any prefects or any obstructions on the way and he practically dragged me across the parking lot and into his expensive car. He got it for his 18^th birthday. 

I wonder what my parents would give me.

“I’ve never done this in my whole life. I don’t cut classes, why am I even here?” he just chuckled, replying, “I knew this would be good for you.”

I turned my body around to face him, “You call this insanity ‘good?’ We’ll be in the principal’s office in less than twenty-four hours and this isn’t even my idea.”

“Avery,” he said in a patient tone, “Breaking some rules is sometimes good for a person.”

“This isn’t one of those times.”

“Yes, it is.” He argued, “Correct me if I’m wrong, but I think you’ve never disobeyed your parents, teachers, anyone since you learned how to breathe.” That last part was just harsh! Technically, he’s right, but I never really saw anything appealing in being a rule breaker. I just don’t like it.

“What does my obedience have to do with anything?” I grumbled. 

“If you don’t explore beyond what you know, how can you learn?” I paused. That’s…absurd. I do explore beyond my own means. My brows drew together in thought. I definitely explore. I said, “You sound like a monk.”

His lips turned up in a radiant smile, “I’m right, aren’t I?” I can’t help rolling my eyes, “But I do explore. Maybe you’re just terribly unobservant.”

“I meant a different explore. Beyond the rules and the restrictions.” He shrugged and finally said, “Nevermind. We’re here.” His grin turned wider as he took a right. My eyes surveyed the wooden welcome sign that read simply, ‘The Royal Ridge.’ I groaned. 

“Tell me why you hate this place again.” He inquired as he drove carefully through the tall trees and the other beautiful obstructions.

“It’s ancient history.” I supplied lifelessly.

“I’m sure it’s fun to hear.” He prodded. He has no idea what he’s talking about. There’s nothing fun about a guy using a girl at all. “You’ll be bored to tears.” I said to him.

“Come on, Avery. I’m sure it’s not that bad.” He stopped the car beside a thick oak tree and turned the engine off. “Let’s get out first; I want to show you something.” Before I could even respond, he got out and started waking to my side of the car. When I came out, I found myself face to face with him and closed the car door without breaking off the staring contest. I said to him, “I’ve been here before. I memorize this bloody park.” 

He laughed in confusion, “Why do you say that as if it’s a bad thing?”

“Because it is.” I scowled at the ground. Without warning, he put his arm around me and pulled me close to his side, probably using my right side in the process. My scowl deepened as he started walking without relinquishing his hold on me. He said, “While we’re walking, you could tell me what it’s all about.”

For the whole duration of the afternoon, we did nothing but walk around the park and talk about nonsense things. To tell you the truth, it’s not that bad. But, no. Just no. But my mind seemed to disregard the ‘no’ I was shouting in my head as we played tag on the spot and skipping rope with a bunch of kids we say while we were walking by. 

I was having fun like I never had in days. I hadn’t noticed that it was almost afternoon but whenever I’d point out that we shouldn’t be where we were, he’d cut me off and invite me to another silly – and tempting – activity, like hide and seek. 

I must be crazy.

Now we were eating ice cream, sitting on the green grass. I didn’t want him to buy this since it was incredulously expensive but damn, I never knew ice creams could be so delicious.

“Avery, two hundred fifty-six times one hundred sixty-three?”

“Forty-one thousand, seven hundred twenty-eight.” I giggled, “Seriously, you can do better than that.” I taunted as he looked at me with his mouth hanging open. 

Okay, so I confessed to him a little secret of mine; ever since I learned how to count like the many infants around the world, my parents and math teacher found something unusual in my counting skills. They called it a gift.

I always called it a disorder.

I can do large sums in my head, and it’s just that. I don’t know how I do that but it’s really easy. I laughed as I watched Travis’ face, “Eat your ice cream before I get it from you.”

“I think you’re a mutant.” He said, licking his ice cream. “No one can do that, it’s impossible. Maybe you’re lying.”

“I’m not.” I said without a qualm as I finished eating and I hugged my legs to myself looking at the sky. 

“Right, maybe you’re just an experiment gone wrong.” Then, “But you’re a nice experiment.”

“Gee, thanks. That was a heart-warming compliment.” I shrieked as he lunged at me and tickled me mercilessly. 

Time passed by in a blur as we did all the things we could think of. We even tried out being a temporary mascot – yes, I know – for the promotion program of the park for an hour – Travis was wearing pirate attire and I was a nymph. Kids were going gaga over us and I probably never laughed like I did right then. They actually believed that we were pirates and mythical creatures and we made up stories about ship wars and trolls that eat fairies. It was outrageous. Lies are bad, right?

When I was changing to my usual jeans and t-shirt, I thought about what I’m doing. Like, what I’m really doing. I was having fun with Travis, the son of the president of Gedi Institute, the most promising company and all the glitz and glitter and – and the bane of my existence? 

He isn’t, right?

I’ll think about that later. Too confusing.

A smile unconsciously formed on my face as I heard him saying even though he wasn’t even in the room, “Avery! I have a wonderful idea – it’s something to curb your cautious nature.” He opened the door and flashed me a perfect smile.

I don’t like the sound of that. And I don’t have a cautious nature! “Enlighten me?”

He walked me over to the outside first, and didn’t say anything until we were surrounded my tall trees and Mother Nature. He looked around the area, the tall trees, and the deserted gravel path and craned his neck to check that no one was staying by the bench. I’m actually giving a go for whatever he’s thinking, as long as it doesn’t violate the park rules – I mean, we just helped them for their promotion and doing something bad for them felt akin to backstabbing.

When he was contented with his search, his hand on mine tightened. He asked, “Tell me, will those people back there give me penalty for climbing one of these trees?”

Chapter 9: Unfair

Chapter 9: Unfair (Wattpad)

Oh, Sweet Jesus Christ. That experience was so scary, so freaky and oh, God, it was impossible. Maybe it wasn’t time travel or dimension. It has to be a medical problem. That’s it, that’s the answer - either a glitch on his brain or a glitch on mine. But it’s more probable that he’s the one who has the problem. Brain tumor? Unbearable stress? Or possibly, it could be in his genes. Who knows, right? Maybe I should check with some books at home – 

“Earth to Avery. Are you going to tell us what the bloody hell happened or should burgers come plying at you?” My ears heard Cassie saying.

I looked at my friends with my eyes unfocused, “Huh?” Lexi looked at me weirdly  and then slowly said, “Ave, you were, uhm, mumbling about tumors and genes and you were saying ‘Jesus Christ’ over and over.”

Theresa touched my shoulder, “I think you study too much. It’s better if you give yourself a break. If you don’t, we’re all going to steal your notes and your Bio book.”

Bio book.

Bio.

Warner.

Oh, God. I can’t.

“Avery, you look very pale.” Edward was facing me with a concerned look on his face and Nicole piped up, “You didn’t even touch your lunch. You should eat.” If I do that, I’ll most likely throw up. I don’t even know why I brought food with me in the first place. 

“Avery.” Cassie said in a tone that clearly says that she is serious, “We want to know what happened. Do you know that when I walked with you out of your classroom, you were saying creepy stuff under your breath like, dimensions and what was it? I forgot the other one.”

“Time travel?” I supplied lifelessly.

“Yep. Time travel. Care to explain about that, honey?”

I sighed and faced all of them, “You’d think I’m crazy.” Lexi answered, “We’re kind of expecting that from the way you’re acting just now.” then she took a bite of her apple.

“Well?” Theresa urged.

I bit my lip, “Today on Bio, we were having genetics and I…” 

“Let me guess, it’s about Travis.” Edward said.

I nodded and said faintly, “Yes, it’s about Warner.” 

“What about the spoiled git?” Case asked.

“He asked me for a favor.” An impossible, crazy one.

“What favor?”

“I…I don’t want to talk about it! It’s so creepy and funny – ”

“Creepy and funny?” Lexi asked.

“Avery, you’re worrying me.” Nicole patted my hand.

“I know! It’s fine, you guys. It’s fine. I’ll be completely normal.” None of them looked convinced. 

“Oh, look. He’s here.”

At what Nicole said, my head involuntarily turned to the entrance of the cafeteria and oh no. He is here. While he was looking around for some place to sit, he was totally oblivious to the girls swooning over him just nearby and to me hating him. I hate those designer shoes and those capri pants. I hate that snug turtleneck. And I really hate those – 

“Ave, if looks could kill, he would’ve been buried by now.” Wha – What did she say?

“Sorry, Case. I didn’t catch that one.” She sighed and rolled her eyes, “I said, if looks could kill, Warner would be absolutely – ”

“Is it me ever-helpful eyes or is he making his way here? And I mean here, here, on our table.” Oh, no. I can’t be that doomed for a single day, can’t I? 

“I don’t think it’s your eyes, Lexi.” said Edward.

“I think I have nausea,” I said to all of them as I started grabbing my bag, “I need to go to the bathroom, I really don’t feel well – ”

“Ave, you never get nausea.” Theresa complained.

“Maybe it’s cancer, not nausea.” I started getting up, “I don’t know, it doesn’t matter. I need to get the hell the hell out of – ”

“Hi, Avery.”

“ – here.” I finished faintly, dropping back to my seat. Oh, no. What the bloody hell is he doing?! I lifted my eyes to him and said quietly, “Hi, Travis.” He winked in response, complete with a killer smile and faced my friends, “Can I steal Avery for just one second?” No way.

“Uhm, you see, Avery was just telling us something important.” Nicole said nicely, as always. Travis raised both of her eyebrows, “Really? I wonder what it is.” He looked at me and although he was smiling, the message was crystal clear: Don’t you dare.

I said, “Yes, and it’s somewhat private, so if you don’t mind, I’ll talk to you later.”

“Oh, that’s cool. I’ll just see you around, ‘kay?” What? He’s just going to let the opportunity slip like that? He’s way too cunning for that – something’s fishy. I replied nervously, “Thanks.” He was just turning around when he seemed to remember something.

“Oh, right.” He faced Ed, “Bailey and Tolland wants to play ball. You wanna come?” What?

“Sure, that’s cool. What time?” Ed replied.

“No idea. You’ll have to ask them.” 

“Yeah, thanks.” Edward nodded. The bane of my existence smiled then looked at me and I should’ve – oh, no. He’s looking at me with that gleam in his eyes and I knew instantly that he thinks he won me over. I stared at him and then flickered my gaze to Ed discreetly.

He’s blackmailing me! Stupid, dirty, prick!

“See you later, Avery.” He walked away as Lexi whistled low, “That was weird, though I must say he looks better up close.” I paid them no attention as I groaned loudly. Oh, God. I can’t do this anymore. He is so evil.

“Avery? What’s wrong? I think that went well.” I heard Nicole say. Then Theresa said next, “Ave? You’re on another planet again.”

My mind slipped away as I considered my options. So the bane of my existence needs assistance – bloody assistance – and I don’t cooperate he’ll go psycho on me. So what the bloody hell should I do? Jesus Christ.

Option one – don’t agree. I bit my lip at the thought. Don’t agree option equals to rifts in friendship, so no. My friends are everything to me, and I won’t rock to boat. Agree? Oh, God. I can’t even think of the endless things that option would imply. I just can’t, it’s unbearable. 

How about the double-cross him option? I pursed my lips.

That would be evil.

But he is evil, too! This is his entire fault; he made sure that I have no escape and have no more options. He is such a motherfu –

“Avery!” Cassie shook my shoulders, “Can you hear a word I’m saying here?”

“Yes, of course!” I replied hastily. She arched her brow, “What was I saying just now, then?”

“You asked me if I could hear a word you’re saying.”

“And before that?”

Cassie just won’t quit, aaargh. I took a wild guess and threw caution to the winds, “You were interrogating me about what happened with me and Travis.” She was just opened her mouth to respond when Theresa attacked me first with a bewildered gaze. 

“Since when do you call the bane of your existence by his first name?”

Crap.

They’re looking at me weirdly right now, like they’re waiting for an impending storm. Their stares have so much intensity that their anticipation was almost tangible. I could feel it.

“Why the hell are you all looking at me like that?”

“Avery,” Lexi said with exasperation, “Just answer the question for the sake of our peace of mind.” They had me cornered. All of them. What the bloody hell should I say?! Panic rose through me as I considered my options for the second time, super fast. Don’t agree – impossible. The truth? Not bloody likely. He, Travis – I mean the bane of my existence – he will kill me and right after my parents chose an epitaph he’s going to tell Ed.

Double-cross him option – I have no idea! But that thought of doing something that bad to someone is just…wrong! It’s not me! And I bloody well can’t do it.

Oh, no. No, no, no. This is bad. This is very bad.

I need to use my evil side in this situation, damn it! Why do I feel bad, anyway? I really can’t take this.

I faced my friends, meeting their gazes with what I hope is a convincing face, “The thing is…maybe I don’t really hate the Boy E – I’m not saying I like him!” I added hastily, seeing their expressions, “It’s just that he’s been nice sometimes and maybe it’s not really good to feel hate and he’s been okay lately and…stuff.”

They didn’t seem convinced. Edward said, “But just a while ago, you acted really…odd.”

Lexi couldn’t even sit straight, “Ed meant that you had sudden cancer and nausea when he went here and what about the favor? Why did he want to talk to you?”

I just answered one question and they fire me with dozens of others! This is just madness – 

“Avery, spill. Now.” Cassie said and I knew in an instant that her patience is running out. She wants to find out what’s going on, right this second. I took a deep breath and said the unbelievable.