The Moon Hiding at Dawn

Chapter 13: (Un)Expected Clashes

The thing about eating too much food? Stomachaches. That's probably why she's stuck at home right now. We devoured food like there's no tomorrow yesterday and ravaged the stalls to the point that we've exhausted much of our wallet's contents. I seem fine though so I guess my stomach is just stronger.

I visited her. The thing is... She's fine but wasted at the same time. She looks pretty much the same but her level of energy went down so many levels. She opened the door sluggishly, dragged her feet when walking, and groaned at every movement. I'm thinking that she just tasted a glimpse of old age.

This is where it really came true: all she does now is eat and sleep, dozing off the moment she got comfortable on her bed. I guess this was the airhead part I always remember about her... Having too much fun, or work, but forgetting to take care of herself and, sometimes, her surroundings as well.

Not that I have any problem about it. Silence is my past time ever since the days of old and being in her presence is enough for me. I would admit though, I can't help but stare at her while sleeping as creepy as it may seem. I mean she just looks cute for all I care! Is this something that happens only when you're in love? Maybe so.

It's half an hour before noonday when she woke up. Rubbing her eyes, she scanned the room and paused at me. Tilting her head sideways in a 'wait, you're here?' kind of manner as I either seemed out of place or just plain ridiculous before chuckling.

"You know, you should've enjoyed the remaining time of the club fair." She said.

"I have no one to enjoy it with... Besides, I generally hate places crowded with people."

"You'd have to overcome that if you'd want to succeed. I mean, I respect the preference of being alone but you should learn to be with the general public and not just the people you know."

"Well... That's...." I can't think of a way to respond. She is right on every point.

"Let's do it this way then." She cuts in. "Enjoy the club fair in my stead. Think of it both as training and a favor you'll do for me."

I let out a sigh. I guess there's no arguing with this one. "All right then. Give me a call if you need something. I'll drop by here before I go home."

"Have fun! I love you!"

"I love you too!" I replied as I left her doorstep and went to the school.

Nothing really happened much. I walked around and bought some food that I haven't tried yesterday and went to the same bench to rest. I stared at nothing and everything. The booths, people playing games, occasional students passing by like leaves occasionally falling from the tree. It's more or less a peaceful time as I drown in white noise.

Yet peace is a mere illusion meant to be shattered. There goes around a saying in international relations topics that peace time is a mere preparation time for the next war. I guess this applies to interpersonal relations as my rest was interrupted by a rowdy dude shouting at me.

"I'M CHALLENGING YOU ON THE GAME BOOTHS! THIS IS PAYBACK FOR YESTERDAY!"

I glanced to see a rather pathetic Clyde, alone this time, running to me as if a child who got his candy taken away. I can't help but feel sorry that he has to resort to games against me. If he was not bound by reputation and school rules, I bet he would've challenged me to a fistfight or something.

"Let's... make... some... bets..." He said while panting.

I'm dead serious about wanting to decline the guy's invitation. The thing is I kinda pity him for all the energy he spent probably in trying to find me. Besides, if Kallen was beside me, she'd force me to accept it. Her words telling me to enjoy in her stead echoing in the chambers of my head.