Where my Heart Lies

Confessions

Ryan was on the bleachers with his friends after that day's soccer match. He had just gulped down some cool water down his throat when his eyes fell on someone. No one else had noticed this person as they were all busy bickering about their own accomplishments in life. They all wanted to be the 'cool one' in the group. Ryan excused himself for washroom, and left sneakily. The person walked in front of him and he followed, stopping only when they reached the quietest area close by. 

"I already told Larry-"

"Did I say you could speak?"

"Aaron, look, I really mean it when I say I did not do it."

"Explain that to Larry. Anyways, I am not here for that."

"Then.."

"Wanna come to the party tonight? Mind you, no girls. And make sure you're a good drinker."

There was a pause. In a moment Ryan seemed to have analyzed whatever he could. He knew what would happen if he went. But he also knew what would happen if he didn't. And it was much worse.

"Larry would be there too, right?"

"You bet. See you tonight."

Ryan had always been the star. An all rounder in school, the teacher's favorite pet and the one with who had the ways to get things done his way. His family had connections. But here in the university, he made a mistake. And he dares not confess that to anyone, after all, it is about years of his reputation. You cannot escape Larry. He tells himself.

************************

Larry and Liam's dorm, next day

"Larry you-"

"What? I was just playing with him! It's not like he's badly hurt or anything."

"YOU LEFT HIM TRAUMATIZED FOR LIFE!"

"I... No! He was the one who initiated it. All my boys can testify."

Larry told Liam while he munching potato chips and binge watching Netflix, very calmly. 

Liam took a deep breath. He was barely holding himself from punching the lad straight in his face.

"Look, you cannot keep bullying those freshers. EVERY DAMN WEEK YOU FIND A NEW SOMEONE LIKE THEY ARE A FUCKING PIECE OF MEAT AND-"

"God Liam. Do not shout on my head. Besides, it isn't someone new. It's that Ryan guy."

Larry and Liam shared a look. All of a sudden, Liam's anger subdued. Rather, he now held a look of pleasure.

"Ryan. Don't go too far though."

Larry was surprised at how quickly Liam's temperament changed. He sure has something against Ryan. Liam was the kind of guy that hardly had any rivalries. But when he does, he is not someone to let go easily. There is kindness in him. And he knows when to take revenge, and where the limits are. 

***********************************************************************************

The lecture hall

"Mr. Anderson, can I hand you this week's assignment together with the next week's?" Kiana asked Liam after the lecture was over. It had been two weeks since she was discharged, but she still wasn't feeling the same as before. Liam and all the professors except Mr. Smith, have been understanding enough for her.

"Yes, you can do that. Make sure to not exert yourself too much."

Kiana thanked Liam as she and Jessica headed out of the Lecture hall. Liam keenly observed Jessica in a sisterly way. It was too late before he could stop himself from blurting out-