Short Stories: Here and There

Tomboy Pt. 1

Context: Jackie's got a crush on her longtime best friend

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Crap.
I recognize the feeling all too well. It's the same feeling I always get. But this time, Deo?

His voice, urging me on. Deo, always there with a ball, ready to play. Deo. Deo. Deo.

I mouth his name, as if saying it will let me confront my feelings.

Mashing a pillow into my face, I let out a muffled scream. I can't let my brothers know about this. I scoff, amused with my all-too-accurate reenactment of the four of them playing out in my mind.

Kaskazini shaking his head dismissively, slightly disappointed.
"There are plenty of fish in the sea," he'll say.
Magharibi laughing histerically, pounding his fist on the table. Mashariki along with him, trying to stifle his giggles.

My two cousins, Gavin and Eli, will videotape the whole thing to be used as blackmail. They hate doing the dishes with a passion.

And my twin, Kusini, who will already having Deo on speed dial. No way am I telling those four.

Pacing the length of my room, I decide to accept my fate. I have no real friends other than Deo. Who better to share the news with?

Ding...dong...

"Heeeyyy, Jackie! You want to play a game of soccer?" I shake my head, leaning on the door frame.
"I need advice."
"Ooh, someone's in the feels today. Come on in, let's go up to my room." I nod a quick hello to Andy, who's got his nose deep inside a book, and I dash up to Deo's room.

"Deo, the mystical all-knowing wizard of advice bringing at your service. How may I help you?" Deo wiggles his fingers dramatically, and smiles at me, his grin reaching his eyes. I fiddle with my hands, twisting my fingers into elaborate shapes.

"I have a crush. Help." Deo raises an eyebrow, giving me a mischievous smirk.
"And do I know this special someone?"

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I've had these two in my mind for a while now...this may not be the last time you see Jackie, her four brothers, cousins, and Deo...