Chapter 32: Formality

Chapter 32: Formality (Wattpad)

The good thing is I got out of the situation alive, right? Thoughts scurried through my brain as I watched the television – but not really taking anything in. It was almost 8:30 pm – almost time for sleep. After that godforsaken incident earlier in the day, we’ve been quiet as the grave. I have no intention whatsoever of sharing this to anyone. Especially Imah. Not her. 

As I sat on the couch, seeing the colours and the movements rather than the show itself, I pursed my lips for he hundredth time and both of my hands rubbed the sides of my neck – for the millionth time. 

Every time I do that, I get a flashback; which makes me shiver from goose bumps all the freaking time. I’m sure my face is as red as a tomato at the moment, so I dare not look at Sky, who was reading a book by the lamp, several meters to my left. When he just pursed or licked his lips, I almost drool and stare. Then rub my neck again. It’s ridiculous. I breathed in deeply.

Then I remembered something. I did the epic face palm. “Geez! Of all the days – ”

“What? What is it?” Sky turned to face me, an eyebrow raised. I took one look at him and blushed even further. I hate you, Ryne. You ruin everything. He blushed lightly himself, a tint of colour on his cheeks. I answered him. “I – it’s nothing. I just remembered that it’s training tomorrow so yeah…” He pursed his lips and I looked away before I do something stupid. I heard him say, “Right. Training.” he paused then continued. “I can ask Xav to come, you know. Or maybe even Imah.”

I recognize a miracle if I see one. God is good.

“That would be nice.”

So now, 10 minutes later, I’m brushing my teeth, barely knowing what time is it. When I changed clothes earlier, for the first time, I felt different about them. The clothes. They’re his for Christ’s sake – he wore them once and now I’m wearing it. 

I paused with what I’m doing and touched the hem of the shirt. I’m going insane. I really am. I rinsed my mouth afterwards and went to the bedroom, wanting to stop time and take off to another planet. I buried myself on the sheets immediately, momentarily forgetting about by glasses. Tomorrow would be a lifesaver. It would be.

 

I had no idea what I was doing. I was just staring at the blank wall by the side of my bed. The world could have been crumbling to pieces for all I care. Then I heard the opening of the door. Automatically, I turned to the doorway and instantly regretting it. Seriously. Who else would I expect? Dash? Sky took one glance at me and looked away. He started going to his side of the bed, shutting off the lights on his way. The room was dim, then I sat up slowly to put off my glasses and place them on the low table beside my head. 

I felt Sky settle in the sheets and I heard him take off his own glasses. I lay down on the bed, shutting my eyelids closed. It would’ve been easier if he wasn’t nice. I mean, I don’t like him – I love Carsh – but initially, there is an attraction. Certainly, there is. I just don’t want it to gout of hand. That wouldn’t help anyone or anything. I’ll just have to act as normal as possible, prevent anything serious to forge between the two of us. He seemed unable to sleep as well, thinking things like I was. Maybe the same things, too. He said, 

“It would be easier to live life without regrets, you know. Or restraints.”

I shut off his voice. He wasn’t helping matters at all.


           Monday

I blinked my eyes open, waking from a horrible dream. It was so irrational and crazy. I was being chased by Mr. Mafia – I don’t remember his face anymore, but he was waving a chainsaw. Chainsaw. The guy was chasing me with a freaking chainsaw. In the dream, I turned to Sky for help, but then he snubbed me, saying he didn’t care about me.

Yes, the dream was irrational.

I turned to his side of the bed and found him sitting up, looking at me. Will anyone just stop staring at me? It’s still early in the morning. I grabbed my glasses then sat up, facing him. I don’t want to talk – I have nothing to say in the first place. He too, just looked at me. Just looked. It was like he was thinking something over. Then he looked down, straightening his glasses at the bridge of his nose. 

“They’ll be here in less than an hour.” he said, then he faced me, smiling. “We’d better get ready.” I nodded then smiled in return. I slipped off the bed. The problem with Xavia and Imah coming  is that they might – okay, they eventually will – find out something’s off. I rummaged inside the backpack, looking for something suitable to wear. I heard Sky go out. This will really be a problem. Imah is trained to know, while Xavia’s trained to see. I clicked my tongue. This plan will backfire. Just wait and see.


            “Ryne!”

“Hey, Im – ”

“I’m so glad to see you!”

Imah hugged me tightly, blonde hair touching my cheeks. Meanwhile Xavia hugged Sky, putting her arms around his neck and Sky doing the same around her waist. My brows creased without my noticing. What are they playing at? Someone tugged at my hand hard. Imah faced me. 

 

“I saw that.”

Her eyes were sparkling and wide. I scowled deeper. “Saw what?” She scrutinized me. “I’m gonna find out what happened, Ryne.” Then she grinned. “I told you this would happen!” I sighed. I knew it. “It was nothing. And there’s nothing to find out.”

“Did someone ever tell you how bad you lie?”

I glared at her half-heartedly. She just chuckled and held my hand. Xavia turned to me, while Imah moved to her place in front of Sky, a knowing look in her eyes. He looked bewildered.

“What?”

I gritted my teeth at the scene. Why does this have to happen to me – of all people! I turned my gaze to the glorious face of Xavia and she was smiling slightly.

“Something happened, right?”

I groaned. “You people – ”

“Sky didn’t say anything.” she said, smiling further, showing her perfect set of teeth. “And I don’t think he ever will. I’m kind of hoping for a different reaction from you.” I gave her a pleading look. “Imah is enough for one person, please – ”

She shook her head, lips pursed. “This must be really good.” I sighed. This is hopeless. Imah came over to us, Sky in tow. “Let’s get started! I’m excited to see Ryne on her first day.” By the look on her face, it seems obvious that she’s excited about definitely something else. They have no idea what they’re talking about. Xavia said,

“Let’s go sit on the couch. And Sky,” she turned to him, “Why don’t you prepare us some drinks?” he nodded absently, exiting from the room. She and Imah held my shoulders and steered me to the couch. Imah faced me once we were seated.

“Now, my dear. What the hell happened?”

I turned to Xavia, somehow hoping that she’s going to help me get out of my dilemma.

No such luck.

I leaned back, resting my head against the support of the couch. “Things are complicated enough – ” 

“I still want to know.” said Xavia.

“I need to know.” Imah, this time. 

“You two knowing won’t help at all – ”

They seemed unfazed by any of my protests. Well, what else could I expect? They’ve been with Sky for a long time, by the looks of it. When Imah finds out, she’ll undoubtedly dance the Irish jig in joy and encourage us and with Xavia – I have no idea. That’s what kills me. Her relationship with Sky seems to be blurry for me. This entire situation is damned blurry. 

“Stop that, Ryne. And spill everything.” Imah interrupted. Xavia piped up next. “We won’t judge you for it.” She looked at me sincerely. “I promise.”

I bit my lip. It’s not even serious! And I have absolutely no intention for it to be. Nothing. That event, situation, or whatever the hell it is yesterday had been a slip. An accident. He wasn’t on his right mind. A bark interrupted my thoughts and Dash bouded up to me. Then instantly, he turned to Imah.

“Aww! He remembered me!” she continued to cuddle my dog. Xavia reverted her attention to Dash as well. “So this is, err, Zombie?” I stared at her. I thought that issue was over. “His name is Dash.” I explained. “Sky has a weird sense of – ”

They both laughed. Imah said, “You don’t have to be so grumpy. Lighten up!” I scowled. “Can’t. How can I? When – ” 

“Is it that serious?” she said and Xavia leaned forward eagerly. 

“No! There’s nothing serious about this at all!” God, help me. Nothing serious, I almost scoffed. Nothing serious with being kidnapped by someone who apparently wants to ‘live his life without regrets.’

Or restraints.

This restraint is fucking necessary. 

Xavia craned her neck to see me better. “Well then, if it isn’t serious, why are you afraid to tell us?”

“I’m not afraid. You’re twisting my words – ”

“No, we’re not.” they replied in unison. I sighed in frustration. “I would be mad if I told – ”

“Then we’ll ask Sky.” Imah said. Xavia turned to her. “Maybe we can do both?” Imah shrugged. “Later. Let’s break Ryne first – ”

“Break? Isn’t that an overstatement?”

Imah grinned. “We’re willing to do anything and everything – ”

“It’s not important. We – ”

“Fell in love?”

“No!”

Xavia entered the fray. “What’s wrong with telling us, then?”

“It’s just… uncomfortable.”

Imah spoke. “How come?” I recalled the events of last day. I rubbed my neck violently and pursed my lips shut.

“Err, are you okay, Ryne?” she asked. 

“I’m fine.” I replied, clearing my throat. 

Xavia raised an eyebrow. “You’re blushing.” 

I turned to her. “People blush. There’s nothing – ” she laughed aloud, her laughter and beautiful face lighting up the living room. “I think I know!” she exclaimed triumphantly, carefully looking at my neck and pursed lips. She laughed again and I blushed deeper. I knew it. I bloody knew it. 

Imah reached beyond me and grasped Xavia’s wrist. “What did you see?”

“Didn’t you see what she did?”

Imah paused for about three seconds then, “That one?! Are you thinking what I’m thinking?” I interrupted before either of them gets any ideas. The plan just backfired.

“That was a slip. That was nothing – ”

“No, it’s not.” Imah replied. “We know him.”

I scrutinized her expression. “So will you please elaborate and enlighten me with – ”

“It’s really simple! It’s obvious that there is an attraction – ”

“A delicious attraction, apparently.” Xavia injected. I stared at her, mouth agape. “You’re not helping!” She chuckled, satisfied. “Sorry. Go on, Imah.”

“As I said – attraction. All you have to do is stoke the fires a bit, so to say, and voila!” she was almost bouncing with joy. 

 

“Stoke the fires?” She’s kidding. They don’t understand at all! She responded,

“Yes. Stoke the fires.” 

“I’m not intending this to go out of hand – ”

 

“Why? What’s with Sky that you don’t want?”

“Nothing! I – ”

“See?!” They both said.

“I have a boyfriend!”

They both paused. Dash barked. 

“Oh.”

“That.”

I looked at them. “Yes, that.” Imah’s eyebrows crunched together and her eyes seemed troubled. “But – but – ”

“What?”

Xavia suddenly sat up straighter, her ears pricked. “He’s coming.” I let Dash climb up to my lap as Sky came in, a tray of juice carried. He set each one in front of us, and looked for a place to sit. Imah immediately grabbed my arm and pulled my sideways and Xavia moved to the other side.

Damn them. I glared at Imah. Sky just rolled his eyes, sighed, and sat down. The couch was only meant for three people, so we were all jam-packed like sardines. I shifted uncomfortably, his thigh rubbing against mine and as well as his shoulder. Imah suddenly squealed.

“Oh my gosh! Where did you get your anklet?” 

My muscles tensed and my face flushed. I saw Sky scowling and I faced Imah, forcing a smile on my face. “It’s a – ”

“Is that your initial?” she asked. Xavia looked about in interest, after taking a sip of juice. Sky exhaled and he got a glass of juice. I did as well and drank the damned juice, then I turned back to Imah.

She gave in to the chuckle which she smothered with a smug grin. I asked her, “So, where were we?”

“I have no idea – ”

“Is that an emerald?” Xavia asked, with an eyebrow raised. “Right there on your initial?” I sighed. “Well,” I said, frustrated. “it’s – ” 

Sky interrupted. “Yes, Xav. It’s an emerald.” He raised an eyebrow, as if to say Happy? She just nodded. “It’s nice.” then she shrugged, as though the accessory didn’t interest her in the least.

I asked the three of them, “Where do we go?”

Xavia answered. “The firing range.”

“The what?”

Imah chuckled again. “The firing range, Ryne.” We’re going there immediately? That’s just so… scary. It’s like they expect too much from me! I never shot a single bullet in my existence. I knew my face was drained of blood when I faced them.

“But – but I don’t – ”

Xavia said, “It’s gonna be fine. We’ll teach you.”

“Yeah, and we’ll take Dashy here with us.” Imah added, her tone reassuring. Sky said nothing but he out an arm around me, patting my shoulder comfortingly. He whispered, pulling me towards him. “No need to be so worried. We got you.” Then I saw his lips turn up in a smile.

             Oh, God. Help me.

Chapter 3: Stupid, stupid Ryne

Chapter 3: Stupid, stupid Ryne (Wattpad)

I can't help looking over my shoulder for a sight of those green eyes and the unbelievably handsome face. And the gun. I loathe those things now. Then I heard a loud sound.

I screamed.

It's Dash. What is wrong with me?!

I really do need to get a grip. At least, somehow with Dash here, I felt better. I got Dash as a 12th birthday present from my parents - the last one I ever received from them. Anyway, he's a Golden Retriever, the best in the world. I used to be a loner before, but I never minded in the slightest because I had Dash. Now I have Dash and Carsh. I smiled at that train of thought. The thing is, though, Dash has that habit of sleeping like the dead. Maybe even worse. But I feel like I kind of okay with the fact that I trained him well - fetch and all that.

I thought about my completely normal morning. It makes me cringe. Anyway, I'm here to end this now, the police will take care of the rest. We walked a good several minutes to the nearest, mind you, the nearest station close to my house. All thanks to the Terminator. If only I had my bike, I thought bitterly. But then, the next thing I knew, we were at the entrance. "Dash. Behave, 'kay?" Then I left him and went in. I walked straight to the front desk.

"May I help you, kid?" Officer Stanley asked curiously. He's been here for eternity.

"I want to report a - ah, uhhmm.." What was I thinking? Coming here without a plan? Nice going, Ryne. I feel frustrated with myself. I don't even have proof - they just have my word that a new boy in town, clearly not of age for guns, was carrying firearms. Well, I can't really pull out my phone and picture him while running, could I? The officer would probably tell me to butt off, something about welcoming newcomers with open arms. This one's different, I thought. Gathering up my nerve, I asked him,

"Do you know a La Brea family who just moved around here recently?"

"Oh, yes! La Brea!' said one officer. "Nice people, good looking, too." Well, obviously.

"Why'd you ask, kid?" asked Officer Stanley.

"Well, it's actually about the boy, Sky La Brea..."

"Now that guy is the bomb. I tell you, Stan." said the same other cop. "Very good looking - almost a model - and nice manners too." he's not exactly boosting my confidence with this. By the way he talks, you'd think he's gay. Officer Stan cocked and eyebrow, asking me to continue.

"Well, uhm." I cleared my throat. "I was walking back home, on the 73th, then I saw him on my way...saw him with a gun."

There was a pause.

Then the gay officer burst out laughing. Even Officer Stanley chuckled. What the -

"Did you just hear what I said?" I asked boldly. "You've got to bring him in for questioning or something!"

Stan explained. "Look, kid. There has to be some mistake - " I scowled, then I interrupted him.

"You said so that the guy was extremely good looking," I said, looking at the other cop. "Why would you think that I mistook him for somebody else?"

Stan continued. "No. We met the family ourselves, to welcome them to the neighbourhood. If there was some firearms along with that boy's textbooks, I'm sure we'll find out about it."

I stared at him. Is this even funny? Does this look like a joke? Their ego is just DISGUSTING.

"Now, I have to tell you to behave yourself, okay? And I mean no mentioning of any gun to anyone. You kids should welcome the guy, not scare him off. I don't want this spreading around, all right?"

I can't believe this.

           Stupid, stupid Ryne.

Chapter 2: Guns and roses – literally

Chapter 2: Guns and roses - literally (Wattpad)

Part I :

The day was passing by quickly. Nothing was out of normal that I could see. But I have this really creepy feeling that something's going to happen. Something bad.  I really don't know. But I learned once to always trust your instincts. But really, all I can see is Corky being midway-decent for once.

"Settle down, settle down." Professor Harp said as he strode into the room. Professor Harp is new here at Anderson High, but everyone loves him, even the rebel people - he's the kind of teacher who gives free time and allows the students to fool around. So there you go. But now, I noticed something amiss - he looks excited. Very excited. Carsh noticed this, too. We exchanged puzzled looks. I sense something coming.

Professor rubbed his hands together and said, "Before I make the big announcement, Corky, please fix yourself. We don't wear socks like bonnets." The class chuckled. And Corky just smiled goofily and put on his socks.

"Okay, then. Everyone, as you all know, we don't normally accept new students once we've started the school year. But hence," he spread his arms widely. "There's always an exception."

That was it? That? I expected something more, I admit. Something... spontaneous.

"They just moved into the neighbourhood so now, help me welcome Sky La Brea."

The moment he entered the room, it seemed like time stood still. All the girl's eyes were the shape of saucers and even the guys seemed frozen. Mother of God, he's gorgeous. Like supermegafoxyhot  gorgeous. No wonder Professor was acting the way he was. He smiled uncomfortably. GOD. He should be illegal.

"Sky, this is section A5. Guys, this is Sky.' Professor Harp said as he recovered. "You know Sky, you could say hi."

He's joking. It looks like he wants us to die of shame.

"Um. Hi." Damn. He's so... indescribable. That's it, indescribable. The guy has raven-colored hair and piercing green eyes. He is tall and athletic-looking. Not huge, just fit. Like he eats rocks for breakfast. Or something like that. He has sexy broad shoulders and a good build. And I'm sure behind that snug turtleneck is a glorious chest. Maybe even abs. Like I said, athletic. He wears glasses that makes him look cooler - not nerdy. Poor me. Does he live to mock my life? I thought miserably. The class mumbled a "hi" that sounded like a ferret drowning.

"Well, Sky. You can sit over there. Beside Corky and behind Ryne. The one with the glasses."

Seriously? After all the years I've been here, that describes me? That's just cruel. Then all the girls eyes were firing nuclear stares at me. They seemed to be saying, This is your fault.

My fault? It's not my fault that the guy is so freaking that he could already pass for Superman. Bitter people. I scowled on my desk as the new guy walked towards his place with a swagger that made the girls drool. Carsh suddenly leaned and whispered to me, "Don't mind them."

I smiled at him then, and mouthed a thank you. I saw him smiling, then I suddenly thought that I don't need new boy swagger when I had Carsh.

How very wrong I was.

Part II :

I would never find things out until later. Much, much later. Before I knew it, the dull ringing of the bell was heard all over the campus and the students never spared a second more in their rooms. Well, that's life. Me and Carsh stayed at the school for a few more hours, just walking together on the grounds, on the field and the race track.

"The new guy, Sky. He's something isn't he?" he asked me. We were going towards the exit gate by now. I laughed at that and said,

"I think the Terminator will know have a poor guy to chase."

He laughed out loud. "I can't believe I didn't think of that!" he chuckled. But he suddenly stopped and faced me, with his hands on my waist.

"I won't see you for two days, though." he pouted.

I giggled, he's like a baby. "You know what? After your visit, we can go somewhere special."

"Sounds like a date" his eyes sparkled. Always the opportunist.

"Okay then, that's settled." I tiptoed up to him and kissed his cheek.

"Love you, Carsh."

"I love you, too." then he seemed to hesitate. "And, uhm, since I won't see you tomorrow, I'll just make the most of this." Slowly, he leaned in to me and softly kissed my lips.

The butterflies in my stomach seemed to be playing tag or something.

Then he pulled away and gave me a single rose. He smiled. I thought life couldn't be more perfect at that moment.

I was on the pavement. Just several minutes after Carsh said goodbye. The feeling was back again, not unlike what I felt this morning before class; that's something's going to happen. I walked faster, convincing myself that I'm not paranoid. Very subtle, Ryne. Then my heart stopped beating for a split second. I noticed something moving out of the corner of my eye.

Sky.

What the bloody hell. I started to feel relaxed. It was just Sky. And he didn't even see me yet, just rummaging something in his bag. Then I saw what he was holding - a gun.

Shit.

I can't believe this. My eyes aren't functioning properly. I must be going crazy. Then he spotted me. His face morphed in to one of utter shock.

I didn't think. I couldn't even think. My mind just screamed to me that he has a gun in his hand and I ran. As soon as I did, adrenaline surged through my body and made me sprint faster. My mind is clouded with questions and cursing and I never ever let myself to look back even for a second. My only thought was just to fucking get away from him.

A few minutes passed, and I already see people. Thank you, Lord. They were staring at me weirdly. I couldn't blame them. I must be a complete mess and my hair wasn't helping matters. I was breathing hard and now I allowed myself to look.

He wasn't around.

Wasn't he following me or was he just left behind in the chase? I didn't take the chance to find out, I joined the crowd of people making their way across the street with the red light of the traffic sign on. A million thoughts were pestering my mind and I don't know which one to answer first. Luckily, I now calmed down enough to remember my way home. At least he wasn't after me. He's not, right? I mean, who would try to do something with me in their right state of mind? I don't have much money for starters and I obviously don't have credentials.

As I had these thoughts, I noticed that i just walked past my house. Smooth. I walked towards the front door slowly, then I heard a loud sound. I screamed.

It was Dash.

DAMN THIS. I need to get a grip. Dash trotted towards me and I hugged him. "You scared me, Dashy." Then I retrieved my key from under the potted plant on the right of the door. As soon as I was in, I turned on all the lights and checked all the rooms, just in case. Then I almost flew to my bedroom and flopped face down on the bed. This is insanity. I knew something was going to happen! UGH. I removed my shoes and socks and squatted at the middle of the bed. Dash put his bug, furry head on my lap.

"I had a very creepy day, Dash."

I should decide what to do tomorrow. Yes, I really should. I don't think I can handle this, and with Carsh away, the timing couldn't be more perfect to scare the - wait.

Carsh.

            I grabbed my phone and my hands seemed to blur as I typed in his number. I put the phone to my ear. It rang. Come on, Carsh, pick up.

And rang.

I felt like my chest has been squeezed be metal then -

"Ry?"

Oh, God. Thank you. I almost cried with relief and I took a deep breath before responding,

"Yeah, Carsh. It's me."

"Ryne! I was just going to call you, but my phone just started ringing." he paused. "Are you okay? You sound a little bit off."

"It's nothing really. Just tired." I knew he didn't believe me, though. He said, "We'll take about it as soon as we land okay?"

"Sure." Then I heard through his line the sound of the intercom on the airport making an announcement.

"Sorry, Ryne. I have to go now. I love you, okay?"

"Love you, too."

"It'll be alright. Take care." The line went dead. Take care. The irony was in my face. Looking around my messy room, I felt somewhat okay with the face that I didn't involve Carsh in this - whatever this is. That would just be entirely mad. But then what -

Oh. My. God.

            I am so STUPID. The cops! What the bloody hell. Whatever's going on, it is completely their business and I just have to tell them that. I feel so ridiculous. Nice going, Ryne. I grabbed a pair of slippers, whistled for Dash to follow me and went out of the house, taking the key with me. I checked the doorknob two times before setting out.