In this Coming of Age story, four teen rebels from different walks of life embark on a journey of self discovery, brotherhood, and manhood when they go on a street robbing hiatus; each telling their own unique life stories from different point of vi...
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𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐍𝐞𝐱𝐭𝐃𝐚𝐲
𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐨'𝐬𝐏𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐎𝐟𝐕𝐢𝐞𝐰
There I stood in front of the mirror before me staring at my reflection as I ran my fingers through my disheveled hair indefinitely, for the hundredth time. I had developed the habit of overdoing things whenever I felt immensely nervous. It had nearly became a ritual of sorts. I was left on edge especially today, as I feared my friends would somehow firgue me out and they'd pester me about my innermost feelings towards another boy. Yet inevitably, I knew the truth was bound to come out one way or another.
As I looked over my attire lastly, a voice shattered my reverie, prompting my attention towards the door. It was my father, he peaked through my bedroom with raised eyebrows as he looked at me clad in streetwear.
"Where you heading?" he inquired, as his voice was tinged with disdain.
"Just going out with my friends," I replied nonchalantly.
"Ah, those heathens," he muttered, disappointment evident in his expression.
It was something not unfamiliar coming from him. I knew it mirrored his true feelings towards me, inwardly. Which is why I'd die before I let him find out about my interaction with the boy next door. The mere thought of my father finding out sent a shiver down my spine. I knew he'd devour my existence had he discovered.
"Why must you call them that, Aba?" I asked.
He sighed, shaking his head before he stepped into the room, "They aren't exactly exemplary young men, I wish you'd spend more time with individuals who could positively influence your future."
I suppressed the urge to roll my eyes from his words, "You don't even know them, they're great guys," I defended.
He paused, studying me for a brief moment before saying, "Son, you're at a crucial point in your life as an adolescent. Just be mindful of the company you keep."
Although I knew his words seemed concerning, but knowingly it rather came from a place of underlying control.
"Also, return before your curfew," he added sternly before departing the room.
As he left, I let out a sigh of relief mingled with frustration. I donned my jacket, bracing myself for the day ahead, despite my father's attempts to instill fear into my plans along with my unease about what my friends would think of me.
