Your Lie - A Rina Fic

Chapter 3

"Man, this really is the best pizza in town," Ricky exclaimed, his mouth still partly full as he spoke. He had insisted on taking Gina to Salt Lake Slices, his favorite restaurant, claiming that it was only fair if she was going to stand in for Nini. After some back-and-forth, Gina finally relented, agreeing to join him. Now they sat together at a booth near the window, sharing a Hawaiian pizza—Ricky's favorite.

As Ricky voraciously devoured his portion of the pizza, barely pausing to breathe, Gina's eyebrows furrowed slightly as she observed him. Going from being the fourth wheel to becoming Ricky's stand-in was not part of her plan. Now this boy she had only known for a few days seemed to be intertwining himself into her life in unexpected ways.

Gina couldn't deny that Ricky brought about a change, though whether it was for the better or worse was to be determined. As she sat there, quietly studying him, she couldn't help but question how she had found herself in this situation.

"So what's the deal with this place that you practically begged me to come?" Gina asked, her curiosity getting the better of her.

Ricky cleared his throat and leaned in, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "My buddy Red's family runs this place," he explained, nodding towards the kitchen where a red-haired boy, presumably Red, was busy tending to the pizzas in the oven. When she shifted her attention back to Ricky, she noticed him absentmindedly doodling on a napkin, relaxed and carefree. There was something about his demeanor that exuded a sense of calm, and Gina couldn't help but be drawn to it.

Their conversation was momentarily interrupted by the sound of music outside. They turned their attention towards the entrance, where a group of young children, no older than six, had gathered, dancing to the music coming from a portable stereo.

"Aw, looks like they're having fun," Gina remarked, a warm smile on her face.

"They sure do," Ricky's lips curled into a mischievous smirk. Without a moment's hesitation, he got up and made his way towards the children. Gina followed him, standing near the front door as she watched Ricky engage in conversation with the little ones. What is it with him and kids? Lost in her own thoughts, she barely registered the interaction unfolding before her until Ricky suddenly pointed in her direction.

"That girl right there is an incredible dancer. Maybe she could join us?" Ricky announced, his eyes gleaming with excitement. Gina nearly choked on the bite of pizza in her mouth as the kids ran up to her, their innocent faces filled with anticipation. She looked at Ricky, hoping for some help, only to be met with a shit eating grin. She couldn't help but think, this bitch, with a sigh as she reluctantly made her way to join the children in their impromptu dance session, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips.

One child switched back on the stereo, and Gina reached out and took the hand of a little girl, twirling and dancing together. Ricky joined in, dancing with the other kids, and soon a small crowd had gathered, cheering them on. The music shifted to a classical piece, and Gina seamlessly transitioned into a graceful ballet routine. The children and spectators watched in awe as she moved with elegance and precision. Ricky's face lit up with pride, his eyes fixed on Gina.

"I told you she was amazing," Ricky declared, his voice filled with admiration. As their gazes met, a warm smile spread across Gina's face, a surge of confidence coursing through her veins. Her body flowed with the music, the rhythm guiding her every movement. But then, as if a switch had been flipped, the music started to fade away for her in her head.

The sounds of laughter and applause turned into distant echoes, and Gina felt a sudden disconnection from the world around her. The vibrant energy that had fueled her movements moments ago seemed to dissipate, leaving her feeling empty and lost. She could no longer hear the melody that had guided her, as if it had been swallowed by a suffocating silence.