Confessions of a Bestfriend

Chapter 19 The Aftermath

Chapter 19

(Zeke's POV)

As we ran outside we were instantly surrounded by firemen and medics. Siren was ringing loud, alarming the whole town that there's a fire. I was still holding Aria helpless in my arms. Two men in a white uniforms, immediately took her from me. At first I was hesitant but they assured me that they would take care of her. A woman also in white uniform, handed me a drape to keep me warm.

My mind was still in hyper zone. Adrenaline slowly leveled down and my anxiety started to diminish. I scanned for my companion, the one who helped us. He was also draped in wool clothing and laid Ericka on the stretcher of the ambulance. I met his eyes and looked at me intently and nodded. He made his way to Aria. As he reached her, he held her hands. His face was concerned and full of anguish. I couldn't help but notice that he's someone close to her and it bothered me.

"Mr. Dylan right?" The principal asked.

"Ah yes." I nodded and cocked my head back to the guy and Aria.

"Who is this guy? Why is he holding her hand?" I thought to myself.

"Mr. Dylan! I'm asking, if you happen to know what started the fire?" Mr. Hemmingway snapped at me.

"Oh sorry Mr. Hemmingway. Can I please be excused for a second?" I left him and went to look for Mark.

I wasn't sure if I should tell him what happened. Because If I did, I might get expelled. I was half the reason why the fire started.

Speaking of half, I strained my eyes to look for Mark. He was neither in the place where I left him nor in an ambulance. He got away. My heart began to pump faster and a cold chill ran at the back of my spine. Something told me that it was no good.

Next thing I knew, I was scampering my way towards Aria. I wanted to make certain that she was doing fine. The worry and doubts inside of me were alleviated at the sight of her comeliness.

She was already awake and was hugged tightly by the blonde guy. Tears ran slowly down her soft beautiful face. Cold jealousy crawled inside my bones. I was the one who saved her, not him. I should be the one in his place. I should be the one consoling her in my tender embrace. My fists clenched yet I held my emotions intact.

"Just look away Zeke." My mind ordered me.

"Zeke!" The angelic voice called my name.

I turned around and gazed at Aria with longing in her deep blue eyes. My knees became weak. She was so gorgeous and meek even after a disaster. Her lips thin, luscious like sweet candy and her prominent cheekbones blushed. She's a china doll, only in a grunge-type-of-way.

I marched to her as if my feet voluntarily moved on its own. She nodded at the blonde guy who stayed beside her. A hint of envy possessed me as I came near them. The guy was still gripping on her shoulders. He's handsome and was fortunately given those manly jaw lines. His blonde hair was perfect compared to mine. They were perfect together.

I thought I still had a chance with her but she already had someone else. My heart was beating loud inside my chest. My eyes were hurting and holding back the tears. Hence, I needed to be strong. I did not want her to feel guilty.

"Zeke, you okay?" Aria asked.

"I'm good. How 'bout you? When I saw you, you were beginning to get unconscious." I uttered.

"Really?" Aria blushed even more and ducked her head.

"Yea. Good thing you were there or else my sister would have been toast by now." The blonde guy grinned and tapped my shoulders.