Racing Andrius

Peter: No Regrets...Hopefully

Why did I have to say that? Where did that even come from?

"Sorry, that came out of nowhere," I said hastily,

"Um...It's alright," Eva shrugged

Thankfully, class ended quickly and when I exited the building, the sun was setting. I looked at my watch and waited. Soon I spotted Andrius walking towards me.

"Always on time," I said looking from my watch to him

"Shut up," he said and slapped my arm, "remember the important task today,"

We walked in silence across the great lawn until Andrius said elbowing me in the arm, "Hey, heads up,"

I looked ahead and there was my mother waving from the patio.

"CHARLIE!" she shouted

I flinched and when I got near, I said, "I'm right here, you don't need to shout."

"How was your day?"

"It was great. Please sit,"

"Thank you dear. How about you Andrius?"

"It was fine, thank you." Andrius said curtly

"I was wondering when will you and your club be racing," she said looking at me expectantly

"Oh...it will be around New Year's next year since Finals and Winter Break are coming up." I said,

"I see...well be sure to invite me. I love watching you race," She gave me a toothy smile that made the guilt tug at me.

"For sure," I smiled

"Oh dear, I must leave. I have an appointment with my friends I need to attend to." She said standing up after glancing at her watch, "Charlie, how about we go out to dinner tonight at Winding River? You can come along too Andrius."

"Of course," I said, "I hope you have fun with your friends and see you tonight!"

She waved a few times and blew me a kiss before walking down the sidewalk back towards the parking lot.

"Still can't believe she doesn't want an escort." I muttered silently chuckling to myself.

"Well, that is how it is with parents. They want to feel like they can take care of themselves." Andrius said

"...Do you think it is right for me to pretend I'm Charlie when I am in front of her."

"...Do you want my honest opinion?" Andrius said looking at me

"Why not."

"You are still very much Peter...Charlie acted and talked differently."

"Thanks, you make me feel so much better,"

"No really. It-"

"Makes you feel even worse. I mean how can you tell, but not my own mother."

"She is your mother. You are perfect to her."

I sighed, "Should I tell her?"

Andrius sighed, "It's up to you man. I understand why you are doing this but she needs to know one day, but it won't be pretty no matter who tells her."

"Maybe I'll legally change my name..."

"Don't forget about Cassio..."

"Ah shoot...I'll tell her on New Year's at the race. Since...you and I won't be racing."

"True,"

"...Will you back me up if I told her the truth that...Charlie died?" I said hesitantly

"What am I to you? Do I look like to person who leaves a friend hanging?" Andrius said pretending to be annoyed with my question. 

"Thank you," I said with a grateful smile until a knot of unease grew in my mind. 

"What is it?" Andrius said reading my expression and when I hesitated, he said, "Come on, I promise I won't get mad."

"Are you my friend because I look like Charlie?"