Life of Problems

chapter 59

Five minutes after Jwel's leaving, another sound made Jiya to look up again.

Joe?she mumbled nervously.

Busy? Joe asked.

Jiya shook her head. Not really.

Joe sat down beside her. Let's talk then,he said.

About what? asked Jiya.

Well, yesterday l was just passing by and stopped hearing your voice. I wasn't eavesdropping ,he said. Jiya moved uncomfortably at her seat.

So, you heard what l said? she asked clasping her hands tightly together.

Hmm,l did, said Joe laughing which surprised Jiya.

It's a common technique you girls use, easy one, said Joe laughing again.

What technique? Jiya asked confused.

That liking one. When you wanna say no to a guy but can't say it straight then just say that you like someone else. And to make it more trustworthy, just name a guy you often be with, that's the technique, isn't it?

Joe... Jiya said almost in a whisper.

Don't worry, said Joe lightly moving his hand in air. I don't mind that. Which guy will hate it when a beautiful girl like you says so?

Joe...Jiya said again.

What? asked Joe still grinning.

It wasn't..Jiya took a deep breath ,a technique. I seriously like you.

Joe kept laughing. Yeah, yeah ,l like you all too, he said.

Joe, said Jiya angrily this time . I didn't mean as a friend.

Joe's smile disappeared. He looked directly at Jiya's eyes for a moment and then broke the stare.

In case you forgot, he said becoming serious, l am not....

I know, interrupted Jiya. You don't have to remind me that.

Then? Joe asked without looking at her. How can you even think something like this after knowing everything?

I don't know, said Jiya calmly. I just started feeling in this way and it wasn't in my control. I know that it's silly but...l thought of never saying that but you heard accidentally.

You're right actually, sighed Joe. It can't be always controlled. Look at me,he said sadly.