Feelings at Bay

Chapter 9

Weeks have gone by since things settled between the former couple. Their somewhat unstable relationship eventually found equilibrium with the help of friends and family. They began sitting together again as things finally returned to normal; it was nice to see. The only problem, however, was that Amy frequently disappeared from the group, causing alarm. Their fears were often subdued when they began discussing the upcoming event.

"I'm surprised how much we were able to get done with this little setup of ours! I mean, decorations are being drawn up like an assembly line, flowers and other table commodities are just about done, we've already got several local bands willing to play, bonfire is still depending on the weather, food recipes are being swapped like trading cards, and travel issues are being handled by the adults. Did I miss anything?" Julianna recapped their progress in her usual way.

"It sounds like everything is coming together." John added.

"Great," Jordan began, "we'll be finished with everything in no- who is that?"

Looking where she was staring, the group watched as an older man stepped past the gate. A grey T-shirt, red tie, and dark pants covered his person. In his hands was a black notepad. The boys tried not to stare at his semi slanted walking. It didn't take long for them to realize that he was walking over to them. Instinctively, John sat up straighter, especially after he pulled out a badge.

"Good evening, kids. Hope I'm not interrupting anything."

The man's badge was inscribed with the words: Chief Eric Dawson HVPD. Perhaps he was the one in charge of keeping the peace this time around.

"I'm the man in charge of our police department. I'm looking for Mark Davidson; do any of you guys know him?"

"Yeah, he's usually sitting over there. Why? Is everything okay?"

"I'm sure you all are excited for this year's end-of-the-season party. I've been instructed to keep the place under surveillance. That being said, my subordinates have assured me that things will go smoothly."

He paused for a moment, thinking, but then he noticed Emily.

"Ah, Ms. Williams! Haven't seen you in quite a long time. Your father is going to be reassigned to the Festival. Maybe it'll be better if I let him take the reins on this one. Hopefully, he'll have more luck than the last guy. Anyway, I should be going.

"Have a nice weekend, guys!"

And with that, he walked off.

. . .

Amy had integrated into Mark's group. For the past few days, she spent most of her daytime speaking with her new friends. After school, she would go to Jordan's home and giggle about her day. Restraining her concern, Jordan used girl talk to get information.

"I noticed that you've been all smiley these days. Did you fall in love or something?"

"Well, not exactly."

"Something had to happen. You're blushing."

"Well, I guess you could say that I'm glad I ended up going here."

"Is it true about him asking you out?" She wasn't having it.

"Yeah, but I'm not sure."

"Wow, that's a sharp change from what you said last time."

"Yeah, but what can I say? It happens."

That was it then. She had made her decision, and there was no way for Jordan to change her mind. It was predictable, but there were other things to take care of that required her attention. Sighing, she stopped interrogating her.

. . .

"Wait, isn't today Friday?" Emily asked when she met Matthew after school.

"Is it?" He yawned.

"Got any weekend plans?"

"Not really. You?"

"Not much either. Let's get out of here."

Following Emily outside, he still saw several students in the hallway. Thinking quickly, he grabbed her and hid behind a wall. He knew she would kill him later, but he had to keep their studying secessions a secret.

"What the hell?"

Letting go of her, he told her what he saw in a low voice.

"What, aren't you scared that they'll think something else is going on if they see us together, especially with you holding me like that."

"Got any better ideas then?"

He was very careful to say this without hesitating.

"There's still time. Let's just walk home and ignore them. No point in freaking out over nothing."

It turns out, she was right. They escaped with ease as no one even noticed them. Laughing about it as they crossed the street, the two remained on peaceful terms.

"Hey, Emily?"

"Yeah, what's up?"

"Believe it or not, but you're getting better with your grades. I'm really proud of you, so that means you won't have to worry about having to spend time with me next week, assuming the principal gives the okay."

Was she really doing that well? She didn't know how to handle the news. Part of her was glad to have improved, but the other part of her wanted to keep hanging out with him. His tone of voice gave her that impression as well.

"Why do you look sad? Aren't you happy that it's finally over?" He asked.

"I was kinda having fun..." She admitted.

"Me too," he sighed, "me too."

You idiot! Say something else. There's no way she feels the same way, right? What are you talking about? This is wrong! This is very wrong! I can't do this! But I have to say something.

"Wanna go walk around the park for a bit?" She spoke up.

"That doesn't sound anything like you."

"Got a better idea?"

"My place?"

"Very funny."

"I wasn't joking. I trust you. And besides, I owe you for all your help; maybe we could watch a movie or something?"

"You're being serious..."

"Eh... It's not a date or anything, you know that, right?"

"Obviously," he smiled, "lead on."