Sub Rosa Ties ( A High School Dark Romance)

Zera

Exiting the cab, I closed the car door with more force than intended, the thud resonating in the quiet night.

Approaching the front door of my house, I tossed my makeup wipes into the nearby trash can, releasing a relieved sigh. The recent dressing room scuffle at the club had left me with smeared makeup; I'd managed only to change into casual clothes before making my exit.

I was leaving when the drunk guy grabbed me, making a scene. I closed my eyes, gripping my bag tight.

Thoughts of Gerard pounding the guy flashed in my mind, and I quickly opened my eyes, trying to shake off the memory.

The audacity of Gerard approaching and hitting someone without understanding the entire situation weighed on my thoughts. What if he had completely misunderstood everything?

Quietly opening the door, I stepped inside, ensuring to close it gently behind me. Concern filled me as I delicately approached my mom. Her fragile form was tucked under a blanket, patiently awaiting my return.

Gently bending down, I covered her more securely, and her eyes fluttered open.

"You're back."

I nodded, taking a seat beside her, my hands carefully tucking her blonde hair away. Our hair colors didn't align - mine resembled my grandma's, while Junior inherited my dad's.

"Why are you sleeping here and not in your room?" I inquired softly.

"I was waiting for you. I have something to tell you," she croaked.

"What is it? Are you okay? Do you need-"

"I'm fine," she chuckled briefly. "I'll be going to the hospital today with Junior; he seems to have a really bad fever. I just want you to know."

I sighed, concern deepening. "Fever? Is he okay?" My eyes widened slightly.

She had mentioned his fever before, and I pondered if I hadn't been attentive enough to his well-being.

"He's fine. You don't have to bother yourself too much; just focus on your job and schooling. We'll take care of ourselves," Mum whispered.

I nodded quickly and stood up, leaving her side to make my way upstairs to my room. A few steps in, I retraced my path and went to Junior's room. Opening the door, I found him sleeping on his chest, the room dimly lit, and his face buried in a blanket.

A memory of Gerard sleeping on my desk crossed my mind. Why did they share such a strong resemblance? One might mistake them for siblings.

Crouching down, I planted a soft kiss on Junior's forehead. He's my little brother, the one I love the most, and I'll never let anything happen to him.

I made a mental note to come home early from school so I could spend some time with him. I doubted if I'd be teaching Gerard, considering the argument we had.

♡♡♡

"Zera! Zera!..." echoed down the hallway, and I knew it was Sarah. I slowed my pace, turning to find her rushing towards me, her ponytail bouncing in its usual rhythm.

"What again?" I grumbled, memories of her disruptive antics during yesterday's library session flashing in my mind.

"Did you hear?"

"Hear what?" We continued walking down the hallway.

"About the project in the senior class. It was stated on the group; I just knew you wouldn't see it." Sarah pulled out her phone, scrolling through the group's WhatsApp messages.

I sighed and looked ahead, scanning the surroundings, hoping to catch a glimpse of someone.

After a while, my gaze landed on a pair of familiar green eyes instead of the deep blue ones I had hoped for.