Romeo and Juliet

37 -V-

Upset who?

After composing myself in the bathroom, I steel my resolve. I'm strong. Strong enough to save my tears for the solitude of my room.

Peeking out, I catch Romeo in a heated phone conversation, his frustration evident. I choose to walk away, only to hear his voice call out.

"Hey!" Romeo's tone stops me in my tracks.

"Juliet!" he calls louder, drawing the attention of the few students still lingering in the halls.

"Yes, Romeo?" I muster a smile and face him.

"Classes are the other way, you know," he teases, a playful glint in his eye.

I feign surprise. "Thanks, I hadn't noticed."

"Are you avoiding me? You're not one to shy away from drama," he says, his infamous smile making an appearance.

"If you're here to gloat, save it. I'm sure the video's already viral," I retort.

"Well..." His smile broadens, and I can't help but be affected by his charm.

"I need to go," I say, turning to leave.

"What's got you so upset? I just want to talk about something important," he insists, catching up to me.

"A 'friend' just betrayed me," I reply with a hint of sarcasm.

"Sorry," he offers, surprisingly sincere.

He mentions Karina and the favor I had promised. "What's the issue?"

He looks genuinely concerned. "My mom's kicked her out. She's got an hour to pack up, and my dad's away on business."

I'm taken aback. "Of course, I'll help. How do we proceed?"

He shakes his head. "I don't want Mom to see you. It could cause trouble. Are you skipping class?"

I nod. "Yes."

He glances back towards the door. "Mind if I join you?"

The halls are deserted. "Looks like we're both playing hooky today."

We depart from the school grounds, making our way to his place. I park a block away, knowing full well that Karina's belongings won't squeeze into his motorcycle. I can hear the roar of it stop. There she sits on the porch, her eyes betraying recent tears.

The motorcycle's growl ceases, and Romeo dismounts with urgency. Embracing Karina, her frame trembles with renewed sobs. I swallow hard, brushing away an errant tear, and keep my distance.

Romeo gestures towards my car, parked down the street, as they exchange a few words. Soon, Karina shoulders a duffel bag, and Romeo follows, lugging a larger one, clothes threatening to spill out.

"Hi," Karina greets me in a hushed tone as she approaches the car.

Her disheveled bun, the redness around her grey eyes, and the flush on her freckled cheeks can't mask her inherent beauty. It's clear why Michael was drawn to her.

"Quickly, Kar, we're short on time," Romeo urges, tossing her belongings into the backseat.

She climbs in, and my gaze drifts to her midsection, pondering how my mother will react to this unexpected guest. I'll need to speak with her before any introductions are made.

"I'll be right there with the rest," Romeo assures me.

"Do you know where I live?"

His grin is infectious, dimple and all. "I've got it covered," he replies.