The Decuplets

Gage Apologizes To Ella

Ella

The doorbell of my house rang, that's right, I'm at home for once, and I scurried to open it.

Twisting the lock and opening the door, I wished I hadn't.

"Gage," I smiled sarcastically, "what ever brings you here!"

"I know, you're mad," he began, "but allow me to explain."

"Please do," I told him, stepping aside for him to enter.

We walked over to my living room couch and sat down. I waited for him to get explaining.

"Ella, that bet was something he made last year. It isn't still in progress. He, we, would never do that to you," he tried to reason, yet it wasn't enough for me.

"And how am I supposed to believe that?"

"You just have to trust me. Think about the Cam you know. Does he sound like he'd do that?"

I thought for a moment. Cameron was, is, always respectful with me. He's kind, charming, and a good person to talk to. I was conflicted.

"No, because he has changed, Ella."

Call me dumb, but I believed Gage. Cameron does seem like he's changed. It didn't feel like I was a number.

"You weren't just a number, Ella," he said, seeming to read my mind.

"Okay," I sighed, "I believe it."

Gage seemed to not hear me speak, because he just continued, "And I just don't want to stop being friends. Nor does Cam, we just... wait, okay? You do?"

"Yes."

"I'm so glad you understand, Elly-bear!" He exclaimed, hugging me. I pushed him off, attempting not to crack a smile but failing.

There was one more thing I wondered, though— why didn't Cam come tell me this himself?

And so I asked: "did Cam send you here to tell me this?"

"He wanted to, but he wasn't sure how to say it. Granted, trying would have been good I will admit, but big, strong Gage was here to save the day!"

I rolled my eyes at his boasting, nevertheless believing it. That does sound like something the Cam I know would say.

"Well, thanks for explaining, I guess," I proceeded, "but it's still fucked up."

"I mean, it isn't even still going. He knows it was stupid. I don't think he should be held accountable for that."

That made me angry, but I was in no mood to fight with Gage. He was stubborn as hell.

"Alright, whatever, I get it," I said, standing to lead him to the door. He followed.

"Still friends?" Gage asked with a cheesy, hopeful grin.

"Still friends."