Alluring Mask

CHAPTER 2

CHAPTER 2

My lower lip jutted out as we made our way to our destination. I couldn't help scratching my arms, and Rafael repeatedly swatted my hands away.

"Sarah, that's the fifteenth time I've had to stop you from scratching. You'll end up with scars if you don't quit," he said, still holding the lamp he carried.

"Sorry," I mumbled, feeling weak.

He put his hand on my shoulder as we walked, navigating the rough and rocky path. He was the only one with a lamp, while my phone's flashlight was practically useless.

I wanted to replace it, but I had no idea where I could find the money. I just shook my head and clutched the hem of Rafael's shirt. He didn't mind, he was used to it since I always did that when we were together.

"Won't your mom be mad about you being out so late, Rafael?" I asked.

He glanced down at me.

"No, I'm old enough now. I can go out whenever I want as long as I tell them," he replied, shaking his head.

I nodded. "I guess that's true, we're already old enough to make our own decisions, but you know..." I hesitated, then added, "My mom doesn't care about me. But I'm okay, I'm used to it."

He placed a hand on my head and stroked my hair. "I care about you."

"I know," I said, laughing and grinning at him.

We stopped talking when we arrived at our destination. A river with a small waterfall. We had discovered it while exploring after running away from the guard at their hacienda. He was sick at the time and wanted to escape even though his mom wouldn't let him.

"Let's sit here. It's nicer," I suggested.

He nodded silently and followed me. He spread out a large blanket and placed his bag on it.

The lamp provided our only light, and the moon shone above us. I couldn't help but look up and smile.

"Come here, Sarah. Sit next to me," he said.

"Okay."

I sat beside him and helped him unpack. I frowned when I spotted a cake. It was a mini cake with a trendy minimalist design.

"Why do you have cake? Is it your birthday?" I asked.

He chuckled and shaken his head. "No, it's your birthday, Sarah. Happy 21st birthday!"

It took me a moment to process what he said. I pulled out my phone to check the date, and when I saw it was my birthday, my eyes widened. March 20!

"Oh my gosh!" I exclaimed in surprise, looking at him.

I heard his soft laughter in response.

"I can't believe I didn't notice it was my birthday today," I said, laughing.

He shook his head, and I was surprised when he pulled me into a hug. I froze for a moment, my heart racing. This is how I always felt when we hugged, my heart pounded loudly in my chest.

I smiled bitterly and hugged him back. Why is my best friend so good at making me fall for him? Eventually, I started laughing as we both ended up lying on the blanket.

"Don't be sad, Sarah. It's your birthday," he said softly, lifting his glasses with his finger as they slipped down.

I rested my head on his arm while he played with my hair. We gazed up at the dark sky, filled with stars.

"Thank you, Raf. I'm so glad you remembered my birthday," I replied softly.

Tears began to fill my eyes, and I knew I was about to cry. I'm a crybaby, and no matter how hard I try to control my emotions, I can't. I sobbed against his arm like a child.