Along came Avery

3 8 . s e t f r e e

"Are you coming to campus today?" I place my cup in the sink before glancing over at Amber who adjusts her hair. Her eyes watch me, waiting for my answer. "You don't have class?"

"I do. I'm only coming in a bit later, though. I'm craving something buttery and toasted, so I'm going to quickly head down to that coffee shop not too far from here."

"Get me something, please." I nod at her request, though deep down, I'm not spending my money on her. "Also, soccer season starts this week. I know they trials and practice are today. Are you going to stay and watch?"

I shake my head. "No. I'll probably just come back and do some assignments or sleep."

It's Monday. I don't feel too good about today, probably because my beef with Monday goes way back to primary, when I first realised that Mondays are a trap, and so still, the day seems to drain me as early as it is right now.

I really don't have a session this morning, and I was low-key thinking of skipping the afternoon sessions just because, but maybe I might just stick around just to see the group. See how they are since Saturday. Sure, Avery may have told them — that's if he was being honest, him and his confusing self — but even still, none of the messaged. None of them checked on me.

Almost as if they weren't aware I disappeared for the rest of the night. Or maybe Nate said something to have them turn their backs on me, in which case I'll have to make amends and sort it out.

Besides. It's done, him and I. I had enough time yesterday to process and thinking about it, mostly because kissing Avery put it al in perspective. Kind of.

Amber sighs, walking into the small kitchen and grabbing an apple from the small fruit basket. I don't even think those fruits are still fresh, but oh well. "Okay. Well, be safe, and all."

"Of course. You too, on your way to school."

After she leaves, I head back to my room, packing the essentials in my sling bag and then grabbing my phone off the charger. I take my card from my purse and put it at the back of my phone cover, before ensuring I have everything. Then, I head out my room and dorm, locking up and mentally preparing for the journey.

The weather out is quite warm, and considering it's now spring, seeing people walk around with short sleeves and dresses and shorts makes sense. The flowers are starting their blossoming phase and I can imagine the insects preparing to come back and bother us humans.

I make a mental note to buy some doom or insect spray once those things arrive.

Once I get to the coffee store, I walk to the front counter and greet the young waitress before ordering a toasted cheese, bacon and tomato. I contemplate on the drink, but then decide against it. I'll just drink water when I get to uni.

After waiting another fifteen minutes with my eyes wandering about, my order number gets called and I head to the front, picking up my meal and thanking the girl, before heading out.

I end up bumping into a whole human being. "Oh— I'm so sorry, I'm sorry." I quickly pick up the lady's sunglasses glaring up at me from the floor.

"No no, don't be silly. It's okay." She says.

I get to my feet, blowing lightly at the bit of dust on the one lense before handing it to her. "Here you go..." my eyes lift to hers, and the polite smile I have very quickly wipes off of my face.

She looks at me, and I can tell she recognises me too. Her smile increases and my heart clenches. Her eyes hold glee and mine hold fear, worry, anxiousness. Her pearls for teeth shine at me and I nervously take a step back in shock. It's like the past has finally caught up to me. What was meant to happen long ago is happening now. Confrontation.