Romeo and Juliet

33 -I-

Thinking Hard

The bus is abuzz with chatter about the games. I, however, am preoccupied with a less than pleasant sensation. Wearing the same underwear again has me walking awkwardly—apologies, but it's unavoidable.

"Is something troubling you?" Romeo's voice is a whisper, his breath tickling my ear.

A shiver runs through me as our eyes meet, his dimple deepening with a slow, knowing smile. Yes, something's bothering me—two things, actually: one, I'm reusing underwear, courtesy of you, and two, your stunning looks are downright sinful.

I remain silent, aware that he's already clued into my discomfort.

Dressed in a snug shirt, joggers, and Vans, topped with a cap, he's a sight to behold. My jaw drops involuntarily.

"Would you mind picking that up, darling?" His voice is laced with mischief.

My legs feel like jelly; I long for his steadying embrace.

I take a step forward, impatient for the line to advance. Why is it taking so long? Just board the damn bus already!

"Pick up what?"

"Your jaw—it's open," he teases sensually.

Oh, he's trouble.

I roll my eyes and exhale in relief as it's finally my turn to board. His laughter, deep and enticing, fades as he rejoins his queue. My heart pounds against my chest, a wild rhythm. Did he catch that?

Sleep eludes me on the homeward journey, despite exhaustion's grip. My mind protests, yet my heart dismisses the warnings. Romeo's allure is undeniable, but he's a path I shouldn't tread. I excel in my pursuits, but am I ready for the whirlwind he might bring? No, I must resist. Zed is the dream I've cherished, the choice I must uphold.

Upon reaching campus, I dash for my luggage, then to my mother's car where she awaits. Julissa hurries after me, her concern etched on her face.

"Good evening, Mrs. Jude. Julie, is everything alright?"

"Yes, it is," I assure her with a smile that fails to convince.

"Really? You've been restless beside me the whole ride, and you bolted from the bus as if chased by flames." Yes, I need to change as soon as possible.

My mother mirrors Julissa's skeptical look.

"Yes, truly, I am fine."

"Aren't you joining the celebration?" Julissa probes.

Her words catch me off guard, revealing my distraction.

"They mentioned it on the bus, dear. To honor our victory," she reminds me.

My mind had been elsewhere, consumed by guilt for betraying Zed in thought alone.

"You seem unwell. Go rest; you need it," Julissa suggests, her hand offering a gentle squeeze.

Romeo's presence has unsettled my world. Our paths should never have crossed; distance was our ally. Why did he draw near? His image haunts my thoughts, a relentless presence.

I gaze out the window, yearning for home and the relief of shedding this reminder of him. Even my undergarments are tainted with his memory, and it infuriates me.

"Is Romeo the cause of your distress?" my mother inquires.

I meet her gaze, startled. "Uh! No, I'm just eager to be home."

"Are you, though?" she presses.

I glance at my watch. "Yes, it's late, and I'm tired."

"Oh, Julie. I'm your mother. Do you think I'm fooled?"

I offer a noncommittal shrug.

"Who is Romeo? Julissa mentioned him before, and you panicked. Is this serious? What of Zed? I thought—"

"Okay, Alright!," I plead, hands over my ears. She sports a victorious grin, knowing she's hit a nerve.

"Yes, it's about Romeo, and yes, I'm still with Zed. That's precisely why I'm in turmoil—I can't shake Romeo from my thoughts. It feels like I'm betraying Zed in my mind. And it's a mess because just when I've resolved to commit seriously, Romeo disrupts everything."