Prism of Equilibrium

Chapter 9: Goodbye Hurts

I am angry that he was there.

I am angry that I could see him.

I am angry that he breathed the same air as I do and I am still angry now.

I hoped and thought that after the holiday, I won't see him again—that he will move out or just disappear from my old school and yes, he did move out of the old one... but I have never thought that I would meet him in the same school!

This is such a disaster.

"Branson, you said I have powers. Does that means everyone earlier on the stage too?" I asked, holding the tip of Branson's jacket tighter and tighter as my anger boiled up.

"Yes." He stopped for a while looking at the blue sky above. It's decorated with thin white lines. "You are asking about Kevin? Kevin Bernett, aren't you?"

That's weird. How can he know it? But, no. I won't ask him. I despise that jerk too much to even talk about it. "Don't." I closed my eyes. "Ever say that name again."

He laughed. "Okay, I won't. You like waffles?"

"Yep." I answered him and opened my eyes, "But I miss Dad. Can we go home?"

"Yes." he smiled and rode faster.

I enjoy every ride with him so much. The fresh morning air brushing softly against my skin, looking at this breathtaking view on the left; wildflowers and bushes growing wildly, completed by the blue sky above. I took a deep breath and embrace this good feeling.

"Selena, we're here." I heard a voice. I know it is Branson's. I want to say yes but I can't; it turns out that I slept during the journey.

Wait.. then what am I leaning on?

I lifted my heavy eyelids and spotted a light blue denim fabric against my face. It felt warm and still while my hands were wrapped around something hard as well. The hardness I felt is gentle though, not the kind of hardness you feel when you wrapped your arms around a tree. My hands were wrapped around Branson, who's now turning his head a bit checking whether I have woken up or not.

"Sorry," I said and unwrapped my arms instantly. I hope I am not blushing. My, how can I hug him like that?

He chuckled a bit as I quickly get down. "Okay. I'll park this away." he smiled a bit and drove away.

I saw something very familiar when I turned around. A building I've seen for years, each and everyday, my house. I walked to its door, and twisted the doorknob I had twisted for thousands of time.

"Dad?" I called out and closed the door behind me. Some footsteps were faintly heard after that. And soon enough, a face I have missed so much popped out.

"Selena!" Dad shouted and hugged me. "I miss you so, so much."

"Me too, Dad."

"Where's Branson?" He let go of me and looked behind me for the other guy.

"He said he's parking the motorbike."

"Ah, then come on in." We walked to the dining table. Lunch has been prepared neatly on the table. "That young man must have given you junk food or instant noodles?" Dad asked, sounding annoyed.

"No, he-" I was stopped by the opened backdoor.

"Yes. Don't expect much from me; I don't know how to cook." Branson got in and closed the door behind him with a foot.

Dad sighed and sat down. "Then would you mind having a lunch with us today?"

"Sure." he said.

"So, Selena, how's today going?" Dad questioned when I sat down.