Silent Words

Chapter 4: Unraveling Threads

My attention remained firmly ensnared by Athena's presence. Her gaze lingered, and I couldn't help but feel a strange connection, an unspoken thread that tied us together. The memory of our accidental collision still pulsed through me like a distant echo, and I found it difficult to concentrate on anything else.

Riley's words drifted into my consciousness, a distant murmur that barely registered. She waved her hand in front of my face, snapping me back to reality. "Evelyn, are you even listening?"

I blinked, forcing my focus back to Riley. Her eyebrows furrowed with concern as she regarded me. "You seem so distant today. What's going on?"

I debated whether to share my encounter with Athena. My hesitation must have been palpable, as Riley's expression shifted from concern to a gentle smile, and she reached out to squeeze my hand.

"You can talk to me, you know. Whatever's bothering you, we'll figure it out together," she assured me.

I mustered a small, appreciative nod but couldn't bring myself to reveal the encounter with Athena. Some secrets were best kept, especially when they involved a stranger with icy blue eyes.

Lunch proceeded with Riley's cheerful conversation providing a welcome distraction. We discussed mundane matters, the upcoming assignments, and the campus events that seemed to beckon us.

Despite my best efforts, my eyes would stray to Athena, who sat with a group of friends, their laughter and animated gestures drawing curious glances from passersby. She appeared at ease among her companions, a stark contrast to the cold, aloof figure from the morning.

After lunch, Riley insisted on exploring the campus together, determined to keep my mind off whatever had been troubling me. As we strolled through the tree-lined pathways, she shared stories about her past experiences, her enthusiasm contagious.

I offered smiles and nods, grateful for Riley's presence and her unwavering efforts to make me feel at ease. But as we rounded a corner, my heart quickened. Athena stood there, alone, her gaze locked onto me.

Riley stopped in her tracks, her expression shifting from surprise to anger. She took a step forward, her voice laced with indignation. "Athena, what are you doing here?"

Athena's eyes flicked from me to Riley, and she smirked. "Oh, just taking a stroll, Riley. Is that a crime now?"

Riley's eyes narrowed, and she crossed her arms. "Don't play innocent with me. you and your friends have been constantly attacking Evelyn."

Athena's facade wavered, a hint of unease creeping into her expression. "I don't know what you're talking about."

But Riley wasn't easily deterred. "Bullying, Athena. Bullying Evelyn. It's not cool, and it needs to stop."

The tension in the air was palpable, and I watched the exchange with a mix of apprehension and relief. Riley's unwavering support was a wonderful change from the hate and fear shown by others in my past.

Athena exchanged uneasy glances with me. She suddenly looks away and speaks. "It's not my intention to cause harm or be mean, unfortunately I have to act a certain way due to family matters."

I remained silent, my emotions swirling within me. Riley had once again stood up for me against Athena, and I couldn't help but feel a mixture of gratitude and shame. Gratitude for her intervention, and shame that I hadn't stood up for myself.

Riley continued to address Athena and her friends, her voice firm but not unkind. "Well, what you've been doing has caused more pain than before, and they have consequences. Evelyn is a person, and she deserves better than being treated like this."

Athena met Riley's gaze, her icy blue eyes defiant but with a glimmer of something else—regret, perhaps. "You're right. I'm sorry for what I've been doing. I can't change what my friends do. But I will be stopping."

With that, Athena turned and walked away, leaving Riley and me standing there in the wake of their departure. My heart was heavy with conflicting emotions, but one thing was certain—I'm starting to fall for Athena.

As we resumed our stroll through the campus, Riley cast a concerned glance in my direction. "Evelyn, are you okay?"

I nodded, offering a faint smile. It was a relief to have the bullying addressed, even if it left me feeling vulnerable. I grab my notepad and write. "Thank you, Riley. I really appreciate you standing up for me like that."

Riley shook her head, her expression filled with understanding. "It's okay, Evelyn. We all have our moments of need. What matters is that you're not alone anymore."

Her words touched my heart, and I felt a warmth spread within me. For the first time in a long while, I felt like I wasn't carrying the weight of my past alone. Even if they aren't aware of it. I had a friend who stood by my side, and it made all the difference in the world.

As we continued our walk, our conversation shifted to lighter topics, and the afternoon sun bathed the campus in a gentle, golden light. The shadows of doubt and fear began to recede, replaced by the promise of brighter days ahead.

Athena's presence still lingered in my thoughts, but for now, I found solace in the friendship and support of Riley—even if she's unaware of the truth of the monster that lay deep inside.