Shade (Revised)

Chapter 6: Circles

Jason's POV:

My heart raced as I shouted, "What are you thinking? You can't leave me here in the middle of this dark, dense jungle! I won't step out there!"

Frustrated, she yelled back, "You're scared? Why did you think your cocky sayings would work? Just go away!" With each word, she inched closer, her hand reaching for the door. "Now," she repeated, urging me to make a decision.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to. I was just trying to get you to talk," I confessed, feeling the weight of the silence and darkness around us.

She questioned, "Is that how you make someone talk?" I looked down, disappointed, and replied, "I'm just bored in here, and..now, forget talking...It seems like you don't even know how to smile.

"But by being inappropriate-" I quickly interjected, "I told you I didn't mean it. Besides, you're just sitting there, staring like an ice-cold statue. I regret saying that, but it's how I feel right now. Thanks for the lift and all, but..." I trailed off, unsure of what to say next.

In a burst of frustration, I clenched my fist and accidentally hit her car. She swiftly moved my hands away.

"Precious baby, huh?" I teased, raising an eyebrow. To my surprise, she chuckled, and my heart skipped a beat. Did I really hear what I think I heard? I looked at her surprised. She smiled, still looking away. Finally, a positive response!

"Okay, I promise not to lay a finger on your car. Just please, take me away from this dreadful place. Anywhere, please!" I pleaded, my frustration turning into desperation.

In my moment of exasperation, I accidentally let out a nervous laugh, immediately regretting it. Oh no! What if she decides to kick me out again? The fear of being rejected washed over me, making my heart race. I need to be cautious around her, or I'll surely find myself in trouble.

Suddenly, I saw that familiar look in her eyes, the one that made my heart sink. She was about to leave me stranded. "Please.. I'm begging you," I whispered, my voice filled with a mix of fear and desperation. And then, to my relief, the look faded. Thank goodness! It seems like my plea had an impact.

She restarted her engine, the sound filling the silence as we drove off into the darkness. But as we continued on, it became clear that we were going nowhere in particular. We drove and drove, the road stretching endlessly ahead.

She admitted that she had no destination in mind. Panic started to creep in. What if she didn't take me home? Where were we headed? I had so many questions, but it seemed like she didn't want to be disturbed.

Deciding to be patient, I kept my mouth shut and observed the passing scenery. Shifting back in my seat, I tried to relax, but my mind was consumed by one thought: I needed to get home ASAP.