BIG-J

11

As I prepared myself for another day at school, anxiety and worry lingered within me. I couldn't help but feel a sense of hurt that Dominic hadn't even bothered to search for me when I was in need. Stepping onto the school premises, my eyes caught sight of Elinia approaching me. Desperate to avoid her, I scanned for an escape route, and that's when I felt someone's unwavering gaze fixed upon me. I turned and saw James, seemingly unaffected by the situation. At that moment, the only thought that crossed my mind was to escape Elinia's presence, and so, I mustered up the courage to approach James.

Walking up to him, I waved, and it was clear he was confused by my sudden interaction. In a slightly confused tone, he asked, "So, you think we're friends now, huh?" A smirk played upon his lips. Seeking refuge from Elinia, I smiled and gently pulled him away, leading him inside the building. However, as we entered, we unexpectedly ran into Dominic. His gaze shifted from James to me, and his expression transformed from a sweet demeanour to one of anger.

In a threatening tone, Dominic directed his words at James, demanding that he leave me alone and warning him not to involve me in his troubles. James, unfazed, smirked and let out a laugh. He responded, "Well, it was your girlfriend who wanted me, not the other way around, bruh." With that, he pushed me, leaving me shocked by his action. Dominic glared at him while I looked at James with a tinge of disappointment. He walked away, leaving behind a trail of mixed emotions and confusion.

Filled with anger and frustration, I couldn't help but let my emotions get the best of me. As soon as James left, leaving me alone with Dominic, I was overwhelmed by a surge of anger towards him. Without thinking twice, I lashed out, calling him a "fucking jerk." The shock on his face only fueled my emotions further, and at that moment, I didn't care about the consequences. I turned and ran away, seeking solace in the comfort of my classes.

Throughout the day, I made a conscious effort to delay leaving class, hoping that Dominic would have left by the time I made my way to the bus station. The thought of seeing James there gave me a sense of excitement and anticipation. However, as time ticked by, there was no sign of James. I waited for thirty minutes, hoping to catch a glimpse of him, but he was nowhere to be found.

Feeling a mix of disappointment and longing, I boarded the bus and took a seat by myself. I couldn't help but miss James's presence, and thoughts of our last interaction on the bus brought a smile to my face. It was a strange feeling, but there was something about him that captivated me, and I found myself yearning for his company.

As I walked slowly back home, lost in my thoughts, I spotted a figure standing in the distance. For a fleeting moment, I thought it was James, but as I approached, I realized it was Dominic. A wave of annoyance washed over me, and I attempted to walk past him, but he held my hands firmly, forcing me to face him.

His eyes glistened with unshed tears, and for a moment, my heart softened. I couldn't help but reach out and gently caress his cheek, my voice filled with tenderness as I spoke. "I'm sorry about what happened at school, but I think it's best if we keep some distance for now." His voice cracked as he responded, his words filled with confusion and hurt. "Didn't our kiss mean anything? Our little dates?"

His words struck a chord within me, stirring up a whirlwind of emotions. Yes, I did have feelings for Dominic, but the complexities of my situation and the presence of James had left me torn. Right now, I needed space and time for myself, to reflect on my insecurities and concerns. Unable to control my tears, I let out a sigh and mustered the courage to say, "It's best if you leave."

With a heavy heart, I walked inside my house, leaving Dominic standing outside, alone with his thoughts. It was a difficult decision, but one that I believed was necessary for my personal growth and well-being.