Chapter 30: Painted promises

Chapter 30: Painted promises (Wattpad)

Part I:

-

Travis straightened his royal blue tie for the millionth time as he appraised his appearance with a critical eye. He didn’t even bother with clothes that much but then Avery came. He smiled, and then glanced briefly at his ring.

Everything had gone smoothly now, and he’ll admit that he’d been nervous about the meeting yesterday, but nothing ever came up that might be bad for Avery, and that’s all that mattered. He’d been doubtful about his parents, but then yesterday showed that he should have a little more trust in them. Both of them.

He gave his approval of his own reflection at the gargantuan mirror in his room, which looks more like a master suite at a hotel than a teenager’s bedroom. He checked his keys on his pocket and grabbed the remote beside the mirror and with a few buttons pressed, the windows closed by their own accord and the curtains closed as well, and the lights flipped off.

When he emerged from his room, he barely took in the sight of their luxurious hallway when three guards on their custom black and white suit, together with Paul, blocked his next steps.

 His heart pounded and confusion had no place as suspicion clouded everything else. This happened before, more than once. He tried to look calm as possible and look authoritative like his father.

“Paul, what – ”

“Sir, we were ordered to take you back to your room. You are not to go anywhere until – ”

“Fuck that, let me through right now.” He snapped, losing his patience altogether. His father had to be behind this, he always has been. But Travis wouldn’t have known yesterday, not when he was smiling down at Avery as though he’s welcoming her.

Lies.

“Please, sir. We were ordered to – ” he didn’t finish the rest of the sentence as Travis stepped through and immediately, arms were restraining him and pushing him forcibly back to his bedroom door.

“Let me go! Bastards – ” they shut the door on his face. White-hot anger surged through his veins as he pounded through the door. “Paul, let me out right now. Tell my father I need to talk to him.”

Silence.

“Paul.”

A few more heartbeats passed when the doorknob turned and Paul emerged. Determination and a sliver of relief shook Travis but Paul shook his head, snapping the door shut and stood in front of it, making an exit purely impossible.

“This is fucking insane. Let me out, Paul.”

“Mrs. Warner gave us orders.”

Travis paused in mortification and his blood turned cold. “Did you – did you just say that my mother told you to do this?”

Paul mumbled his answer, but Travis can still hear it as clear as day, “Yes, sir.”

Travis’ head pounded and he found it impossible to believe. His Mom.

“Did she say why?” he said in a slow, but furious voice. Maybe he imagined it, but Paul’s stance turned something akin to doubt and disappointment, “She doesn’t want you around Ms. Allton, sir.” Travis couldn’t control the shaking of his entire frame now and he clenched his fists. She lied. She lied to her face.

Liar.

“Dad?” he asked, restraining his fury.

“Business trip, sir.” Paul replied in a voice full of concern and most of all, pity. Travis raised his head high and leveled his eyes with his personal bodyguard since he was a year old. His eyes blazed like fire and when he spoke, his voice was moderate, but anyone can sense the fury underneath. “I do not need your pity, Paul. I need your help.”

Paul dipped his head.

“I’m sorry, sir. I can’t.”

-

“Where the hell is he?” I complained for the hundredth time. “He’s late.” I checked Cassie’s watch and exclaimed, “It’s been thirty minutes!”

“It’s okay, Ave. I’m sure he’s okay.” Nicole comforted with a pat on my shoulder. Everywhere I turn, I see dancing people. The school gym had completely transformed and music was blaring from the speakers. There was a table filled with punch and other food and all the students seemed to be enjoying themselves. 

But not quite all.

“Ave, if something’s happening, he’ll call you one way or the other.” Lexi said with concern.

“I agree.” said Theresa, nodding. They all look terrific in their party dresses but I can’t focus on anything right now. I was tapping my foot like mad and I kept shifting my feet. We were sitting around a circular table, with a glass of punch in front of each of us but I haven’t touched mine.

“Call him, Ave. I don’t like this.” Cassie said with a straight face. Everything we hear is just laughter and enjoyment but I feel isolated from the rest of the world. I feel detached.

“I will.” I took a small breath to calm my erratic thoughts, “I’ll have to go outside; the signal is damned low.” They all offered words of comfort and concern and I quickly went out with my pouch in hand. Immediately, I took out my phone once I’m on the parking lot and I willed for it to ring.

He will answer. He will.

-

“Sir, it’s no use. She disabled your remote control system.”

Travis flung a vase across the room and his ears met a crackle of porcelain and it shattered to pieces. “What do you want me to do, then?” he demanded, but received no response. For the past thirty minutes, he’d done nothing but find a way out but it was impossible. He locked gazes with Paul and saw no other choice.

Slowly, he stepped in front of him and said, “Paul, this is bullshit. Help me out.” When he received not a single word of reply, he wasn’t dismayed. On the contrary, he was even more determined than before.

“I know you might lose your only job over this, but I need you to help me. You’ve met Avery, for God’s sake, there’s nothing wrong with her.” Travis saw him recall the brief encounter and he was aware that Paul had taken a liking to Avery. Whenever he was forced to go over with Paul on his heels, she treated him as a friend and even offered her cookies. 

Anger was on the surface again as he thought of her sweet face and the deception she so unfairly received. 

Avery deserves so much more.

“Paul, I have enough credentials and if you lose your job for helping me, I’ll sign a letter of recommendation myself. I know Dad will do the same. I’ll promise we’ll do it.” His voice was near to pleading. Call it desperation, or anything you want. He didn’t care.

His statement was punctuated with a strong silence. Then Paul raised his head and fixed him with a determined stare. “I’ll escort you down to your garage, sir. We’re not going to Ms. Allton, your mother gave me orders to transfer you to your resthouse not far from here. When I tried to get you in the car, you knocked me out cold, and you escaped. We didn’t have this conversation at all.”

Travis smiled. “Agreed.”

In his haste, he forgot his phone on the bedside table.

-

Part II:

I gritted my teeth in barely-concealed aggravation. I was outside the school’s premises right now, holding the phone to my ear. Fucking signal. I can’t believe that tonight of all nights, this has to happen. I just need to know that he’s alright. That somehow, he’s on his way here.

But he isn’t answering.

Why isn’t he answering? In my panic, I moved forward, trying to get more signal as much as possible. My mind raced through the possibilities to provide a plausible explanation to my worry. He must’ve left his phone. Or he was out of battery or – or something. There must be something reasonable. I heard a small beep from my phone and I looked at my screen.

No signal.

“Fuck.” I hissed and strode further towards the street. I had no idea where I was going as I speed-dialed Travis again. I knew it was irrational, but I just couldn’t shake the feeling that this isn’t just a simple misunderstanding. It’s only one dance, but I think there’s something going on.

As I continued my strides forward, I didn’t notice someone inching forward, hiding from my sight. Waiting.

Just waiting.

-

Travis pushed his Jaguar until he could feel its annoyed grumble, but it still wasn’t enough. He was far away from the school and he wanted to get there now. He felt a deep gratitude to Paul, who agreed to stay behind to cover their alibi for his supposedly ‘escape.’ 

He was intensely worried about Avery. He didn’t know why this much, but he was deeply worried. It was protective instinct, but he wasn’t taking any chances. He needed to see her with his own eyes.

He accelerated the car, almost like a blur as he sped through the night.

-

Where the hell is he?

I massaged my throbbing temples and tried to calm down. My feet hurt terribly but I couldn’t care less about anything as my thoughts were rampant with fears and doubts. I know it’s only one mundane event, but I couldn’t put my finger on something. It’s maddening. 

I looked around and found the pavement deserted and deathly quiet. I hadn’t noticed that I’ve gone so far; the lights from the school gym appeared like pinpricks from here and I felt a stab of wariness. I started to walk back when I heard a man’s voice from behind me,

“Darling, why are you going back?”

I jumped in fright and stumbled forward, almost tripping. I whirled around and found a tall, muscular man, who towered over me and with a scarred face looking at me wonderingly. He smiled slowly.

“Boyfriend isn’t picking up?”

I tried to swallow my fear and said shakily, “I need to get going.” I didn’t wait for his response as I quickly took long strides back, dialing Travis again.

Where are you?

I risked taking a look over my shoulder and froze when I saw no one. Fear rippled through me in huge waves and I hurried my steps, looking around for the sight of the same scarred man.

Travis, where are you?

-

On the empty bedroom, the same phone kept ringing and ringing for the past hour. 

No one was there to pick it up.

-

Sylvia sipped her coffee. She was on break and she still has ten minutes more for free but she didn’t go out to buy a piece of her favorite pastry like she always does.

She’s worried. She tried to fight the feelings of concern as she did her work, but now it came back at her, stabbing at all corners of her mind. Whatever she tried to do, she just couldn’t shake the feeling. Giving in, she took out her phone and dialed her husband.

A mother’s intuition is always right.

-

The school still looks far away, though I felt like I’ve been walking hard forever. My heart rate accelerated with every single step I took, fearing to look at dark corners or anywhere at all where the light is scarce.

That man wouldn’t leave me alone. He wouldn’t. I have to get out of here now.

I walked for more minutes, it felt like it has been an eternity, but I can’t make sense of the time, or anything at all. All I know is that I have to be surrounded by familiar people again. My hands were shaking and I wasn’t thinking straight, my lungs were burning but I took no action to stop.

The next thing I knew, a hand covered my mouth and gripped my upper torso tightly.

“Boyfriend still didn’t pick up?” he said in a throaty voice directly to my ear and I struggled in fear. I whimpered as I at his hands to release me and I stared at the dropped phone on the ground, the name Travis was still legible even from here but the call declined automatically when he didn’t answer.

Where are you?

“Hmm.” His palms kneaded my stomach and I felt tears sting my eyes. My heart thudded when he took steps to the sidewalk and into a dark alley. Though there was no light, I could still decipher the foreign surroundings.

“You’re really pretty.” His hands gathered my hair and he licked my neck from behind. Revulsion pulsed through me as he sighed hungrily. He let my hair loose but covered my mouth in a filthy piece of cloth, preventing me from speaking. Then he tied my hands.

No, no, no.

He pressed me to the alleywall to my back and when he pressed his huge body to mine, he groaned. “You’re going to be a treat.” He started rubbing against me and I sobbed painfully. His wide hands came to my waist and squeezed, with it came a stab of pain. Then he reached higher.

I emitted a muffled cry.

“Sweetheart, did that hurt? No? Let’s try it again.” He squeezed my breasts and I whimpered, shaking my head.

“No? But we’re just getting started…” he dipped his head and licked my breasts. Even with the thin fabric between his tongue and my skin, I couldn’t bear it. I sobbed as he bit.

A guttural sound came from his throat and he started tearing my dress with his bare hands, unable to wait any longer. His hand rubbed against me and he sighed. “Soft.” I cried out and he sighed deeper, “So inexperienced. But I’ll teach you, don’t worry.”

As he took off the rest of my garments, my mind screamed revulsion, terror and the highest degree of fear. His knee pushed against my center but before he took my mouth, he whispered to words that destroyed and mutilated me. Words that made me snap and lose control over my whole mind.

“You’re beautiful.”

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 24: Guardian angel

Chapter 24: Guardian angel (Wattpad)

“What did you say?” I said, looking at him disbelievingly. He grinned playfully, “I have no idea.” With an almost desperate look on my face, I hit him on the chest lightly, almost forgetting about Kat, who was calmly eating chips, looking out on the door.

“Damn it, I’m serious.”

He smiled genuinely this time and took both of my hands. Then using them, he framed his own face. Immediately, my palms grew warm between his cheeks and hands and I can’t help scowling. “What do you think you’re doing?”

“I’m not doing anything.” He shrugged.

I suspiciously said, “You’re supposed to be bragging about your perfection and your ego should be as big as Russia, as usual.”

 He countered, “You should be screaming at me to go away and now look at you. Blushing like hell, and I’m just touching your hands.” He turned his hands to the side and kissed my palm. “Anything else?”

“Are…are you implying something?” My heart was beating so fast and I find this…scary. Creepy. I don’t believe this is happening. 

“I honestly don’t know. Do you think I am?” he smiled teasingly and I sighed. “Please tell me what – just what’s going on in your mind or just – tell me something.”

 

“Okay, but can we go upstairs first?”

“Up to the – ”

“Thanks.” He grinned then pulled me to my feet. He said, “See you, Kat.” And without another word, he turned me by the shoulders and guided me up the stairs. We passed by Delsey and Nique, who both said, “Hello, lovebirds.” 

“Hey, guys.” Travis smiled back. The moment they were out of earshot, I rounded on him, “Okay. Talk now.” We’ve reached the second landing and I now gave him the answer-me-no-bullshit-please look, but he didn’t seem to notice and he interlocked my fingers with his and walked backward, to the direction of my room.

“Do I have permission to come in?”

“No.”

“Perfect.” He opened the door wide and pulled me in. Before he could say anything, I slammed the door shut and glowered at him. He’s behaving out of character – so out of the bloody character. Instead of being rattled by my scowling, he’s smiling like he’d won the lottery. Not that it would make any difference to their fortune but aaargh. I deserve answers.

“Seriously. What’s going on?” 

His expression softened and he stepped forward, wrapped his arms around my waist and touched his forehead with mine. Biting my lip, I hesitated for five seconds before putting my own arms around his neck. I sighed and prayed that whatever this is, I won’t get hurt too much.

“Avery, would you believe me if I said I have a fear of spiders? And please look at me.” My brow creased and I met his straight gaze, his eyes unflinching. What does the bloody prank have to do with anything?

“What do you mean? That is way off the – ”

“Please just answer the question.”

Suddenly feeling self-conscious, I replied, “Of course I would. That’s because you do have the damned phobia.” He smiled at my answer and kissed my right cheek and embraced me tightly. When he pulled back, he looked into my eyes and said, “Would you believe me if I said I live in a mansion?”

“You do. And it’s more of a palace than a mansion but seriously – where is this conversation going?”

“Answer the question. Yes or no?”

“Of course yes. What the hell is this?” he didn’t answer my question but kissed my left cheek. He smiled and faced me with an almost peaceful look. I said, confused, “Please tell me what’s happening.” I didn’t receive my response once again and he only put his forehead on mine. He spoke, his blue eyes so solemn and sincere,

“So would you believe me if I said I’m in love with you?”

Part II:

I heard the words. I heard them, but – no. They’re not true. They can’t possibly be true. Even when he started to smile, my mind still refused to give in. I was speechless, but he seemed to understand my lack of words as he hugged me tightly and I distinctly heard him say,

“I was aiming for a more romantic admission, but I think I managed to nail it.” He kissed my shoulder, “Don’t you think?”

I gave a strangled laugh and allowed myself to think properly. Somehow, there was still a part of me that was refusing to accept. I said in a voice that didn’t sound like myself, 

“You – could you say it again?”

He pulled back from the hug and looked at me in the eye. His face doesn’t bear even the slightest hint of a smile as he framed my face in his hands and said, 

“I love you.” 

I blinked rapidly. “You…you do? But that’s not really…”

“Possible?” he guessed, arching an eyebrow. “I don’t think so. I don’t know how or when it happened, but the point is that it did happen.” He smiled gently, “Right?”

I had difficulty breathing even as he said it point-blank. I – I mean, how could someone like him love someone like me? It’s so…unreal.

He continued to say to me, “I love you, Avery. It just happened like gravity.” He smiled reminiscently, “And tidal waves.” I can’t even bring myself to wonder what makes him smile when he mentioned gravity and the tidal waves. I even forgot what their definition is.

“We only had one day out together and it can’t even be considered as a date. And then we spent lunchtime with my friends. Just one lunch. I don’t think that’s enough – ”

“Then I made you cut classes. You never do that. Also, I made you climb that tree and got photos of us published across the country. Not that I’m sorry about that.” He smiled. “I made you do things you wouldn’t dare do and I’m intending to do more of that. I know I’m talking about stupid things, but sometimes, little things matter a lot.” Now he grinned wider, “For instance, if you didn’t get yourself drunk to the bone, we wouldn’t be standing here right now, wouldn’t we?”

“But…” My brow creased as I scrambled for a sense of balance. “That doesn’t make sense.” 

“Love doesn’t make sense, darling. Oh, I forgot one – I also had your first kiss. I don’t know about that, but I think my guardian angel was with me at that time. I’ll have to thank him later.”

I chuckled. He also believes in guardian angels, doesn’t he? “Maybe I just find it too overwhelming to believe that a person like yourself would stoop so low as to wanting me.” He gave me and oh-please kind of look and backed me towards the door until I felt the hard wood against my back and he comfortably molded his body to fit mine. I chuckled up at him as he grinned playfully. He said, 

“Let’s see what do you want me to do to make you believe? Did I tell you that you’re fucking beautiful?” his words and even his voice made me curl my toes and I answered, “You know, when you say that, I believe it. Funny is it not?” 

“You have to start believing it from other people. Even the mirror.” He leaned forward and caught my earlobe between his teeth. I took a deep shaking breath, “Stop that.” On the contrary, he made it much worse. He put the earlobe on his mouth, swept his tongue across it, and sucked.

“Oh, God. Please stop.” He didn’t. “Fuck you Travis.” he laughed, finally pulling back and he stared at me for a long time, smiling. 

“Where were we?” he asked pressing himself closer to me. 

“If you come even closer, I’ll probably die of suffocation.” He did come closer and I could feel every outline of his body against mine. I was wrong – maybe it’s heart attack, not suffocation. I said breathlessly, 

“You do know I can’t breathe, don’t you?” he smiled and responded, “I think that’s a good thing.” If it was even possible, he moved even closer and I groaned. He said, “Seems like I can’t get enough of you lately.”

“Yes,” I gasped. “Right.” God, I can’t breathe. And it’s not merely the invasion of my personal space it’s just – I feel every inch of him and I’d jump off a cliff before I admit it, but it feels so good.

“Don’t believe me yet?” he asked.

“Believe what?” I think I’m floating. 

“You know what. And don’t pass out on me, okay?” he nuzzled my neck. 

“I won’t. At least,” I gasped, “I don’t think so.” 

“Mmm. That’s good.” He kissed my cheek. “God, you’re so delicious.”

“Technically, you can’t taste me.” He chuckled at the comment and said, “Wrong answer.” He tilted his head and kissed me as if his life depended on it. His mouth devoured mine and all rational thoughts fled my mind when his tongue licked my lower lip.

“Okay,” I panted, “I that’s enough. You’re going to kill me by the rate you’re going.” 

“Satisfied now?” he asked still, not letting go of the subject. When I didn’t answer, he heaved a sigh. “You’re so stubborn.”

“I’m realistic.”

He just smiled and moved a step backward. I breathed properly again, feeling the cold air on my skin again and I smiled up at Travis, who was watching me as though fascinated. 

“Now, I have to show you something.” 

Part III:

“What the hell are you doing?” 

I gripped his hand but he continued to look out of my window, half of his body hanging. “I said I wanted to show you something.”

“Why don’t you just go down and show me the bloody thing instead of having an accident?”

“Patience isn’t really my forte.” He smiled at me over his shoulder and waved out to Paul, his “personal bodyguard and chauffeur.” He was a grim, leonine man who followed Travis with his own car just a few minutes ago. He instantly looked up, if he was surprised to see the only heir of the most promising company everyone knows dangling on the window sill, his face betrayed nothing. As if he knew what Travis needed, he opened the passenger’s side of the car and rummaged for the unknown item. Then a disturbing thought came across me. I turned to Travis, 

“Has he been standing there whole time? Isn’t he allowed to even go in the car? Or atleast the house? Do you have any idea how sunny it is?” Without thinking, I pulled him by the hand and raced down the stairs. I vaguely waved at everyone on the table, went outside and saw Mr. Chauffeur with a rectangular box with no handle at all, only a small keyhole. Which doesn’t make absolute sense.

I stepped forward, “Uhm. Hello.”

Travis said, “Thanks, Paul. I’ll have that.” He got the box and put it under his arm as I said, “Do you want to go in, sir? It’s quite hot out here.”

“It’s fine, ma’am. I don’t want to intrude.” He inclined his head to me slightly and then to Travis. Which…I find creepier. 

“You can atleast stay in the car. You can turn on the radio, I know how you like it.” Paul blinked and his forehead creased slightly, but he maintained his rigid self-discipline as he muttered a thank-you and went inside his car.

Chuckling slightly, I turned to Travis, “I find that exchange really suspicious and scary. And why the hell does he have to call me ‘ma’am’ when he’s probably two decades older than me?” He just laughed as we walked back to the house and explained about their guards having a protocol to follow and we clambered up the stairs again and secluded ourselves in my room. I looked at the medium-sized box with renewed interest.

“So what’s the big surprise about?”

He just smiled and flopped down on the bed. “Sit here.” He patted the space next to him and ridiculously, I obeyed, still looking at the innocent-looking box on his lap. He started saying, “It’s nothing special, but I thought it would be nice.” 

From his pocket, he got a silver key – one of those that look like they’re from medieval times – and inserted it on the lock. When he swung it open, the inside is certainly not what I expected. A blue, thick kind of paper that stretched up, looking like an accordion. Looking puzzled still, I watched at Travis parted it at the middle and was surprised to see that it was indeed a paper, albeit blue, just folded to fit in. Pictures were pasted on it, along with the names of the people on photo and the date. 

As I stared, disbelief etched to my features, particular photos leaped out of my line of vision – me, in the middle of a laugh with the familiar trees behind me, then there’s me and him on the car doing…yeah. But what really caught my eyes was a picture of me and him on our desks; arguing it seems. Then when we were on the parking lot, when he stole my first ever kiss, when we were walking on the hallway. 

Some pictures were taken with the Polaroid, some not at all. I stared, my lips parted in surprise. Even the blue paper must’ve cost a fortune – there were intricate patterns etched on it and adds more detail to the whole thing. But I saw that there were still spots to be filled, and I recovered enough to look at Travis.

“Pictures? Who got these pictures?”

“Cassie.” He said with a smile.

“Cassie?” My mouth was open and I stared back at the pictures. Cassie – Cassie – has been doing this little project this little project behind my back for – for how long?

“Cassie knows everything.” Travis confessed, “After I begged to you in that classroom and you ran away from me, she came in, figuring something was wrong and started interrogating me like a bloody police officer and I spilled everything to her. I thought she might help, but she didn’t believe a word of it. She said I was a lunatic.” He chuckled. “But after that little scene on the cafeteria, she talked to me privately and I came up with this project and that’s it.

“She…she knows? Everything?” I asked weakly.

“Yes, she does.” He kissed me soothingly. “She’s not angry with you, trust me.” Then giving me one last kiss on the list one last time, he smiled. “We still have to fill these up with more photos, don’t you think?”

I heard the challenge and the invitation in his voice and I smiled excitedly. 

“Let’s start with breaking more rules.”

“Why yes, Your Highness.”

Chapter 17: My mind must be somewhere

Chapter 17: My mind must be somewhere (Wattpad)

Still cross-legged on the couch, I tore the page from my spring notebook and crumbled it. I wrote the current date at the top of the new sheet and pretended the pile of other crumpled papers on my side didn’t exist. 

My mind must be somewhere.

I took a deep breath and held it in for three seconds before exhaling. I checked the time – seven-fifteen. It’s been hours – hours – since that…incident and I still can’t breathe properly and my heart was still skipping. What the hell is wrong with me? I should be writing a reaction paper on history. Okay, focus. I picked my pen up and wrote on the first line. History…was full…of tragedy. Catchy. That’s good. I took a deep breath again and convinced myself this is just a piece of cupcake.

“Since when do you know yoga?” Dad came towards me and sat on the other couch by my side, only the low table between us. Before I could answer, Mom said, “Charlie, you would know if our daughter knew yoga.” She still concentrated on preparing the dinner over at the table while speaking.

“She looks flushed – she must’ve been doing yoga. Right, my dear?” he asked me, smiling. Oh, no. This is dangerous. I tried my best not to let my inner apprehension show on my face as Mom glanced up to me. I forced a smile. “Right, yoga.” I paused, but couldn’t help it any longer, “I need to go to the bathroom for a second.” I stood up before I heard the both of them assent and I restrained myself from running up the stairs and lock myself in the bathroom. Once I was safely inside, I shut the door close and leaned on it.

That guy is going to kill me one of these days. Stroke, possibly. Or stress. Either way, the finger points to him and all I need to do is write a death note and he’ll be arrested for good.

I looked around the space of our tiled bathroom. To my right is the shower with the blinds and to the left is the toilet. Directly in front of me is the counter with the sink and the mirror above it, which covers the entire wall. I walked forward and swept a hand through my messed-up hair. Dad was right – I’m blushing like hell.

I put my hands on my hips. This has to stop. It’s not healthy. It’s just a kiss, for Christ’s sake. But then there was one after that…and after that.

And after that.

I took deep breaths again to control my breathing. Why am I even affected by that rich, adventurous, insane person?

Okay, so if he’d kiss other girls before and if they’re suffering like I am right now then great. Otherwise…I’m just an idiot. Face it, Avery. I breathed in and out. You’re just an inexperienced moron.

“Avery?”

“Coming, Mom.” 

I opened the door and walked the length of the floor all the way down the stairs. Immediately, I went to the dining and sat down. “It looks great, Mom.” She smiled in response as Dad sat down and led the prayer without any prodding from anybody.

When I put the fork of steamed fish in my mouth, my taste buds danced tango in joy. Mom’s cooking skills are awesome.

“Sylv, honey, the camera’s with you right? For tomorrow?” Dad asked while eating. Mom nodded, “Upstairs in my duffel bag.” While they continued speaking, my thoughts wandered to something else entirely.

Camera.

Polaroid.

Oh, God. That was the most unexplainable moment of my life. I quickly poured myself a glass of water and downed it in five seconds. I got more water as the time where we were getting ready to leave the park replayed in my head. Oh, God.

We were walking back to his Jaguar as the sun was setting down on the horizon. What happened minutes ago from that blasted maple tree had me blushing like crazy and Travis was till laughing at it. I must be out of my fucking mind. 

Why the hell did I let him do that?

I should’ve screamed like my life depended on it. I should’ve.

“I’d be happy to do that again, but I’m worried that your cheeks would burst to flames.” He grinned at me contentedly.

“It’s not funny! I don’t know what happened back then. I must be insane.”

“Hey.” He tilted my chin up while walking, “Don’t be sad. I don’t know for you, but for me, that was pretty amazing.” I blushed deeper.

I did a gesture with my head that could be a nod or something. It was probably a something, not a nod. He smiled a little and released my chin, holding me by the shoulder tighter. This is ludicrous.

When the Jaguar came to view under the oak tree from earlier today, I sighed from intense relief. Going home is a miracle. I reached the vehicle before he did and finally, he came. 

“Stay here.”

Stay what?

He unlocked the driver’s door after the beep-beep of the car and brought out the Polaroid that had been haunting my dreams.

“Finally. So what’s the mystery all about?” I asked him.

“It’s still a surprise. But I’ll be taking a lot of pictures of the both of us from now on.” The words hung in the air as they slowly entered and registered in my brain.

“Us?”

“Yes, my genius. You and me.” He grinned as if everything’s okay with the world.

“And you won’t answer when I ask why because it’s a surprise?” I assumed quickly, expecting the worst. “You’re sharp as a knife.” He winked, confirming my fears.

What can he do with a bunch of pictures with my face on it? He’s not an assassin, is he? Travis raised the camera to eye level and took three steps back.

“Smile, darling. Your blush looks wonderful.”

I can’t help laughing at the ‘darling’ part. That was one hundred percent cliché! Midlaugh, I saw him snap the picture. The hard copy immediately sprung from the front and before anything else, I grabbed it, not giving him a chance to look.

“Hey!” he tried to reach for it, but I turned my back on him and surveyed the photo myself. Two things – whoa, that’s me? And the second is that Travis mustn’t get his hands on this. He said,

“Give it back.” He placed the camera on top of his car and encircled his arms around my torso from behind and momentarily lifted me in the air. I shrieked and tried to break loose the moment my shoes made contact with the ground. 

“I look hideous, trust me – ”

“Our eyes are different, Avery. And you’re biased so maybe I should see for myself.” He tried to grab it again but I ended up with my back on him, facing the car and trying to open the car door.

Too late.

He turned me around by the shoulders and I was pinned by his body to the car. He was smiling.

Shit.

He said, “Are we back here again?” he leaned in dangerously close.

“You can take the bloody photo. Seriously, you – ” he was kissing me for the hundredth time this day, and unconsciously, my hands went up to grip his shoulders and he pried me away from the car, his hands around my waist and pulling me against him.

I didn’t know what I was doing. I wasn’t aware of a bloody thing only that I was kissing him back and molding my body against his. But he didn’t seem to be bothered from my weight because when he pulled away to breathe for a second, he chuckled. Our lips touched again and I went under, my senses dulling. My arms encircled his neck and the next thing I knew, I heard the sound of the camera.

I pulled away slowly, looking to my side and Travis burst to laughter. On his hands now, with his camera is a picture of me…and him…Oh, God. He kept both photos to his jeans pocket, still smiling. He said, 

“In case you’d like to know, we’re still starting.”

I don’t want to live in this planet anymore. I’ll build a rocket first thing in the morning, and then choosing another galaxy to live in would be entirely preferable than – 

“Our daughter’s blocking out again isn’t she, darling?” Mom asked Dad in a carrying voice. He chuckled mirthfully. “I wonder what happened today.” He looked at me pointedly.

I sighed and can’t help a smile escape on my lips. My parents are amazing. I would just have to make a perfect alibi for them to join me in my moving-out-of-the-galaxy campaign; I can’t possibly leave them here.

“Nothing happened, Dad. I was just thinking.” I shrugged my shoulders for added effect, hoping it would suffice for them.

“Thinking what?” he asked still, taking a sip of water. Mom joined in and said, “Don’t tell me it’s homework, Avery. It’s the weekend and you deserve a break.”

Right. So my parents are a wee bit sharp, but aren’t all are?

“I was just thinking about the typhoon of people tomorrow.” I shrugged and then added, “With all of them coming, I guess I just feel a nit strung.” Mom was pursing her lips to keep herself from smiling. What? What did I say? That speech was flawless! Dad chuckled deeply. Really, what’s going – 

 

Oh, no.

It’s not possible.

But there’s only one explanation. Only a single one. My eyes widened.

It can’t be! 

“Mom, Dad, you see – Oh, God. How do I say this – ”

“When we found out what happened this afternoon, Ave.” Dad shook his head but he was smiling slightly, “I must say, we were indeed shocked.”

Oh my God. How could they know ­– oh, fuck! There must’ve been someone behind those blasted trees! Damn Travis to hell. Fuck it.

“Dad, I’m so, so sorry! Mom – ”

Mom spoke up first, “It’s okay, darling.”

Okay? They’re what? When I pictured this moment, it definitely wasn’t like this. I mean, for the love of God! I was kissing – Oh, shit. I can’t – 

“If you don’t, uhm, mind – Mom how did you find out?”

“The principal gave us a call. Really, honey. You should’ve told us in the first place; we’d understand.”

My eyes widened as an uncontrollable wave of relief washed through me. Damn it, they’re talking about me cutting classes! Cutting bloody classes! I struggled against the urge to rise to my feet and cheer. Cutting classes, they’d hopefully understand. Kissing under bloody trees, they absolutely won’t.

Thank you, guardian angel.

“Yeah, uhm, about that – ”

“Don’t take this the wrong way, Ave.” Dad was saying, “But, in a way, we’re glad you’ve done that.” They exchanged smiles right then about God knows what. 

Glad? Aren’t parents supposed to be outraged to heat this kind of thing? They should, right? Maybe Mom and Dad were just behind the times.

“We wanted you to have fun, once in a while. You always look tired, and those circles beneath your eyes, they’re getting worse. Ave, you don’t have to work so hard. You always get perfect grades, and as your Mom said, you deserve a break. Enjoy. You’re only a teenager once.” He grinned at me paternally.

I don’t work that hard! Maybe sometimes – okay, most of the time – but what am I supposed to do, then? Slack off? That’s just not appropriate.

“I have weekends off, Dad. The workload doesn’t seem much as bad, then.”

Mom raised an eyebrow, her topaz eyes sharp, “And I found some really interesting things on your planner. Please, honey, don’t tell me you’re making your classmates reviewers.”

Okay, maybe my parents aren’t so behind the times.

With the concerned look on their faces, I was positive they’ve been talking about this. Okay, relax. So I make them reviewers. It’s a gesture of kindness, right?  It’s not that hard to do, anyway. Maybe at times they pile up, but I always get them done. 

“They asked for some help,” I responded feebly, “And I figured why not?” I shrugged. “It’s nice to help.” I bit my lip and I just couldn’t say more. What else can I say, anyway.

“My dear,” Dad started, “If you love what you’re doing, then fine. We’re okay with it, but not too much. Not too much, okay? Everything has limits.” Genuine love and concern sprang from the both of them and I can’t help smiling.

“Not too much. Got it.” I nodded.

Dad winked and faced Mom again, “Where was I?”

“Your terrible golfing skills.” Mom’s faced glowed.

“Right,” Dad said sheepishly. “So, why don’t we just…”

As they drifted along with their talk, I ate my fish with much more gusto. That wasn’t so bad. I love my parents so much and I have no doubt that they love me, too.

While I ate, I let my thoughts move towards Travis cautiously, trying to assess where exactly I stand now in terms of our…thingy. Okay, so the guy’s attractive. Big deal; there are a lot of attractive Australians. My mind subconsciously conjured up his devastating smile. 

So he’s attractive and sexy. A lot of people are like that. Really, it’s not like there aren’t 1.6 billion more guys around the world, right?

And he stole my first kiss. Now, that’s something against him. It’s my first bloody kiss for God’s sake. It’s supposed to be romantic! The sparks-fly-music-inside-my-head kind of romantic. It’s supposed to be memorable!

My mind reminded me of how I spent my time under the tree.

Blasted tree. So he kissed me today. Big deal. Maybe seven times, I wasn’t sure – aaargh, this is not helping. So, those kisses made up for the first one. What’s the difference? It’s still the same person, even if you turn the universe upside down. 

More than made up for the first kiss, my mind hissed at me.

Shut up, brain.

Okay, so he’s an attractive, sexy guy who knows how to kiss. Big deal.

And he likes jellyfishes and penguins.

This isn’t helping at all. I drank water again, more slowly this time. I stared at my empty plate and tried to set my mind straight.

What am I even thinking, considering these things? But I can’t deny the horrid truth. So, I have a crush on him.

BIG DEAL.

It’s bloody highschool! It’s practically normal to have one, right? This is so warped. I never had problems like this before, but then again, he hadn’t even shown up before. It’s a matter of logic. As I tapped my hand against my thigh, a stunning realization hit me on the face like ice-cold water.

I’m pretending to be his girl. An attractive, sexy and a good kisser’s girlfriend. Me.

No. It’s all crap.

This isn’t even the ideal relationship! Where do I start, oh wait. Why don’t we start with this little fact that the ‘relationship’ isn’t even real? And then we can tackle the others. Splendid. Just splendid.

Wait. What am I thinking? I cannot believe I just thought like that. It’s like I wanted…oh, fuck.

I do not want the bloody thing to be real. I do not. Not. I must be going crazy! Why would I even want it to be real? It’s like I don’t have standards at all – not that I don’t, because I do. I have high standards, trust me.

Think, Avery. Think. I took a deep breath. It’s just a crush. A silly little crush. Avoidable and temporary. And in a couple of months, this insanity will be all over. I pursed my lips and sighed.

Wait. Did I just sigh? This is ridiculous – 

My phone rang and vibrated against my pocket and both Mom and Dad looked at me, slight curiosity on their faces. I slowly took out my phone, quietly praying it’s not Travis. 

It’s Travis.

What the hell is he up to?! I looked up to my parents and started to excuse myself but Mom said, “Answer it here. It’s fine.” She smiled and I desperately kept my lips tight together; if I don’t I’ll be cursing like I never had before.

If I don’t answer it here, it’ll look suspicious. I gritted my teeth and answered the damn call, putting the phone on my ear.

“Hello?”

“Avery.” As soon as I heard his warm, well-toned voice, my heart skipped beats. I’m sure patches of color are now on my cheeks, damn it. “What are you doing?” he asked and I knew immediately that something’s up. And I’m not sure I’d like to know what that something is.

“I just finished dinner.” I said as nonchalantly as I could. Why is he even asking? Why won’t he just say it?

“So, listen. I was wondering if you have something planned for tomorrow.” Millions of things are happening to me all at the same time. My body was humming. I don’t know what else to describe it but aaargh. I disregarded the fact that the ‘humming’ was from the sound of his voice. Maybe I have flu. Who could tell, right?

And why, why is he asking about tomorrow? Why?

“Why’d you ask?” he answered my question with confidence and an upbeat tone to his voice, “What do you say to a weekend with me on the beach?”

Beach.

Before I even knew what I was doing, my mind went ahead of me and imagined Travis on the beach. Shirtless.

What am I thinking? 

I licked my lips and tried to sound normal, “Uhm, you see, some relatives are coming over and it’s a family gathering, so…” Is it just me or did I sound disappointed? He seemed unfazed by this and purged on, with confidence still. 

“That’s okay. Some other time, then? Same venue.” I could practically picture him, on a tropical beach, maybe, smiling. I cleared my throat. “Sure. You really didn’t have to call me, you know.” I heard him laugh and I felt an overwhelming urge to smile myself. He said, “It’s fine, Your Highness. Don’t worry. And don’t forget your list, okay?”

“Yeah, list. Right.” I was breathless. He responded, “So, bye now. And,” he paused and continued, “I had a wonderful time.”

Now I really can’t breathe.

“Me, too.”

WHAT? Did I just say that? I didn’t say that. I did not – 

“Really?” he asked, half-laughing. “You weren’t so cool with it when we were walking back.” There was a slight question in what he said and the words tumbled out of my mouth, “No. I had a terrific time.”

There is no other explanation. I’ve become senile. At the ripe age of seventeen. 

There was a pause on the other end of the line then he chuckled quietly, “Glad to hear that. Bye now. Take care.” 

“Yeah, you too.”

The line went dead, but I was still holding the phone to my ear, in a trance. I don’t know whether to laugh, cry or both. My mind is buzzing from the ‘take care’ I just received. I returned my phone to my pocket and muttered absently to myself, “So he laughed. Big deal. If it wasn’t for that blasted tree – ”

“Uhm, Avery?”

I looked up in churning horror. Oh, GOD. How could I possibly forget about my parents?! Dad fixed me with a questioning look. What did I – oh my God. Why, the damned hell, did I insult a living organism related to plants with him on the same room? Why?

 

I hastily invented a speech, “I was saying that if it wasn’t do that blasted tree…ping, tripping incident. Not tree, like, you know, nature…” I bit my lip and my shoulders sagged in relief as he gave me a comforting smile. But Mom piped up, “Who laughed, darling?” I was instantly alert, my throat dry.

“Laughed?” I laughed, feeling like a moron. Mom replied, “You said ‘he’ laughed. Who’s ‘he’?” she looked directly into my eyes and I can’t lie. Not to my mother’s face! 

“It’s your boyfriend, isn’t it?” Dad said out of nowhere. He smiled good-naturedly.

That issue. The irony hits me on the face like a brick. Here’s Dad, delusional over the fact that I have a boyfriend and then Travis comes up, being the fake one.

So far, I still don’t have a boyfriend.

“Actually, it’s just Travis.” 

Immediately, sparks lit up my father’s face and he leaned forward, “So, the young man’s name is Travis? That’s quite a masculine name.”

Oops.

Oh, God. He got it wrong! I opened my mouth to speak but my Dad wasn’t giving me a chance, “At least you’re not denying it now, honey. So what’s he like?” Dear Lord. I looked at my Mom for help, like I always do, but this time – this one time! – she was smiling in a way I couldn’t quite place. She said, 

“Go on, Avery. Tell us.”

Shit.