For Granted: Regretful Childhood Friend

Chapter 3

My last class for the day is finished and I am collecting my things to leave. Chase has been sending me some texts, asking me where I was, which I responded with monosilabic answers. I really didn't have a "thing" to do, obviously, but I needed some time alone just with my thoughts, without being with Chase and his intrusive yet oblivious self.

But now the time for "the talk" has finally arrived. Chase had told me earlier he would be waiting for me by my classroom door, so we could walk together and find some private place on campus to talk. I stop by the door and am surrounded by Chase's perfume, because he immediately evolves me with his arm and gives me a kiss on the cheek.

- Babe, I've missed you - He whispers with his lips close to my ear.

I fell myself blushing a little and answer just with a smile and a "Hi".

- So - He says, while guiding us through the corridors - I would like to have this conversation on my place, Erin. But I understand that you prefer here so let's find somewhere more private around campus, shall we?

- Yes - I answer.

After some minutes we are already walking outside, Chases arms still guiding me. While walking, lots of students and players keep greeting him and acknowledging his presence. We finally find this bench near a beautiful tree and he asks me to sit but stays standing in front of me, hands inside his pockets. He is wearing a white shirt and a dark jacket with a hood. It was a very laid-back look which I find very attractive.

He seems very nervous, an unusual sight for me, because I am used to seeing a playful, funny Chase that doesn't take things very seriously and is always laughing or partying.

He keeps taking his cap off, arranging his hair in a state of turmoil. But I decide not say a single word to help with this conversation. I just keep staring with amusement showing in my features.

- So - He starts, clearing his throat - I want to apologize for yesterday at the party. Really apologize. I really didnt mean that.... I didnt mean that to happen, I promise you. Ashley come on to me and.... Well, the rest you saw. I didn't mean to upset you. I am sorry for this babe. - He says, looking into my eyes, waiting for a response.

- I understand - I answer him, with no more comments.

He fuzzes with his shirt, passes a hand in the back of his neck and continues.

- Look, after I left your dorm, I bumped into Jason and Lili. She was very mad at me and kept giving me murderous looks and all, so I asked her if she had a problem or anything. She actually shouted at me, called me "insensitive toad" if you can believe this shi*. But then, she told me I was acting like a oblivious imbecile and that I was hurting you with my behavior. She told me some guy would come and take you from me, right in front of my eyes - He makes a pause, taking deep breaths and continues.

- Babe... Look, I will ask you this, so please be honest. I am asking you to be honest with me. No bullshits. Just answer the question, okay? - He asks, staring very intensely at me.

Hum.....

- Okay, I guess.... - I respond dragging the words, very hesintantly, already afraid to hear the question.

He keeps his eyes locked to mine.

- Are you into me? - He asks me, more like, demands from me.

I can feel my face getting beet red and my mouth opening without letting a sound out. In fact, I can feel my face flaming like its on fire. This is so very embarrassing!!

Lili....!!

I have this immense urge to run and not look back, but I am like an animal petrified by Chase's stare.