Chico

Misa 6

Seating next to Faith in class, we were talking about the latest episode of "Skins," talking about Cassie's character development.

When our English teacher entered, our conversation stopped, and we turned our attention to the front. The assignment for the day was revealed - partnering up to write an essay about our assigned partner based on what we learned during group work.

Lost in my thoughts, I barely paid attention as the teacher began pairing students. Suddenly, my name was called, and I was matched with Chico.

My heart skipped a beat at the mention of his name. Chico had always been somewhat of an puzzle to me, his quiet confidence and strong presence leaving an impression. The memory of our hands had accidentally brushed against each other, sent a shiver down my spine.

As I glanced at Chico, I caught him smiling at me, and I couldn't help but smile back, feeling a flutter of excitement. However, I also noticed the envious glances from other girls in the class, their eyes filled with jealousy as they wished they were the ones paired with him.

At the same time, Faith shot me a curious look, her eyebrows raised in silent inquiry, wondering if there was something more between Chico and me.
🩷🩷🩷

As I stepped into the library, my eyes scanned the room until they landed on Chico, seated and scrolling through his phone. With a soft smile, I approached him, offering a casual greeting to announce my arrival.

"Hey," I said, hoping to catch his attention.

Chico looked up, his face lighting up with a warm smile. "Hey," he replied, his voice gentle yet inviting.

Taking a seat across from him, I felt a flutter of excitement as we began discussing our assignment. Despite the seriousness of the task, there was an easy rapport between us that made the conversation flow effortlessly.

In the midst of our discussion, a question popped into my mind, and I couldn't resist asking. "Should I call you by your full name, Francisco?" I inquired, curious to know his preference.

Chico shook his head, a soft chuckle escaping his lips. "Nah, Chico is fine," he replied, his tone relaxed.

I nodded, a smile tugging at the corners of my lips. "Chico," I repeated, savoring the sound of his name. "It sounds nice. Where are you from?"

"Thank you," Chico responded, a hint of warmth in his voice. "I'm from Brazil," he added, a nostalgic gleam in his eyes as he spoke of his homeland.

As we continued our conversation, Chico's curiosity turned towards my own background. "So, where are you from?" he asked, genuine interest in his tone.

"I'm from Nigeria," I replied, a hint of pride coloring my voice.

"Cool," Chico responded, a smile playing at his lips.

The topic then shifted to football, a subject close to Chico's heart. "Do you know anything about football?" he asked, curiosity evident in his eyes.

I nodded, recalling the basics that my dad had shared with me over the years. "Just the basics," I admitted, a faint smile touching my lips.

As our conversation meandered, we discovered a shared love for music. Chico's eyes lit up as he mentioned his favorite genre. "I'm really into R&B," he said, enthusiasm evident in his voice.

I couldn't help but be surprised. "Really? I love R&B too," I exclaimed, a grin spreading across my face.

Chico's smile mirrored my own. "That's awesome. Who's your favorite artist?" he asked, genuine curiosity shining in his eyes.

Without hesitation, I replied, "SZA. She's amazing."

Chico's face lit up with recognition. "Nice choice. I'm a big fan of Tyler, the Creator," he shared, a sense of pride in his voice.
🩷🩷🩷

As Chico and I were deep in conversation, a girl named Rosie barged in. She seemed more interested in Chico, complimenting him and asking about his plans for his next football match. Chico's responses were short and distant, showing he wasn't really into the conversation.

Even though Rosie persisted, trying to grab Chico's attention, he remained focused on our conversation. Eventually, Rosie got the hint and left, shooting me a dirty look on her way out. I couldn't help but raise an eyebrow in response before turning back to Chico.

To my surprise, Chico had been looking at me the whole time with an intense gaze. Despite the interruption, it was clear that our connection hadn't faded, and we continued our conversation as if nothing had happened.
🩷🩷🩷

As our time together in the library came to an end, Chico mentioned his hunger and suggested getting something from the cafeteria. He kindly offered to buy something for me, but I declined, insisting that I didn't need anything. Chico, however, said he wouldn't take no for an answer.

Despite my protests, Chico left to get some food, leaving me alone for what felt like an hour. Anxious thoughts crept into my mind, wondering if he had abandoned me. But just as worry started to gnaw at me, Chico returned with food for both of us.

I couldn't help but feel touched by his gesture, although I tried to brush it off. "You didn't have to get me anything," I protested, feeling a pang of guilt.

But Chico simply brushed off my concerns, insisting it was no trouble at all. He offered me an Oreo, but I couldn't hide my disappointment, admitting that I didn't actually like Oreos. Chico's embarrassment was palpable as he apologized profusely, promising to get something else.

However, before he could leave, I couldn't resist teasing him, revealing that I was just joking. A wave of relief washed over Chico as he laughed along with me.