Matt

Chapter 30- The Truth

To say that I am a perfect individual would, without a doubt, be complete nonsense. I've done plenty of things in my life to which I am not proud of. I'm not sure if I'm really convinced about the idea of karma, but if it does exist, perhaps what was happening at this moment was pay back for the sins of my past, whether that be my current life, or any past lives I may have had. There was one thing I did know, though. I didn't want to leave, and for some reason, I knew that my reason for not wanting to was far more than just missing my friends or home.

The walk into the train station was a surreal moment. I was even tempted to pinch myself but resisted doing so to avoid looking strange. John didn't bother to follow me into the train station, which was actually preferable. It would've been awkward if he had been standing next to me while I waited for my train.

Having entered the train station with my bag slung over my shoulder, I quickly noticed that the station was fairly crowded. Despite this, I couldn't help but feel especially lonely. It was as I approached the area where my train was waiting for me that I was given a surprise. Standing there together were the three remaining members of the club. I was pleased to see their faces, and I was certain that all three of them were less than happy to see me leave.

"I guess this is it," said Alex, his annoying grin still present on his face. "I must say that I sincerely wish that things didn't have to end this way so soon.

I bet you do, Alex. I bet you do.

Clara walked up to me nervously, looking as if she was unable to come up with what to say. "I...I just wanted to let you know that...that I'm glad I was given the chance to meet you. I don't think I could have been able to make it without your help."

I smiled warmly at her. Oh, Clara, did you have to look so incredibly cute as you said good bye. You're only making this harder on me. "You'll be fine, you're stronger than you think." I said.

She gave me the most cheerful expression she could and nodded lightly. I could tell that she was reluctant to say or do something, but I was unable to figure out what it was.

I turned to Alexis next. Her expression appeared as stoic as ever, but surprisingly, she handed me a slip of folded paper. I was about to open it to read when Alexis raised her hand and said, "Wait, read it later." After staring at her and the piece of paper for a few seconds, I decided to comply. Perhaps she was feeling a bit shy about what was written on it. I decided to read the note when I entered the train.

I looked at each one once more. "You sure you guys are going to be alright without me?"

"I'll admit that things will be most difficult without your assistance," said Alex. "However, I strongly believe that things will work out in the end."

I turned to Clara despite already knowing the answer to my next question. "Mind telling us what's in store for us in the future?"

She smiled politely, looking somewhat apologetic. "Sorry, but I can't say."

"Come on. Just this once. You can't break the rule even once?"

"I'm so sorry, but I can't. Don't worry, I sure things will work itself out."

I think we all wanted to say more, yet knew that there wasn't really anything else left to say. After about a minute of this, I smiled again, picked up my bag, and gave a quick wave.

"I'll see you guys during summer vacation, okay?"

The three of them responded by nodding as they waved back. I then turned around and began to make my way towards the train. After showing the staff my ticket, I entered the train and took my seat. I looked around the train at the other people around me. Most of them appeared excited and happy about their trip. I was likely one of the few people on the train who was miserable having to leave. It made me feel all the more lonelier.