Three Phantoms of You [bxb]

A Proper Goodbye, Perhaps?

Kiev:

Somehow, the messages became more and more aggressive whenever I came into contact with Nolan or spent time with him, which tires me.

Last week was definitely something. Even though it pains me to try and avoid him again, he always shows up in my periphery to remind me about the fondness we built. Yet, it's not all the time that I see the same version of him.

It's like we're a private couple. He ignores me and barely looks at me at school, but meanwhile, he becomes so nice when we're private. It's funny to me now, but it's definitely confusing.

"Hmm," I sigh.

Christmas is also coming up, which means the semester is about to end. It's my favorite time of year. I mean, I get to avoid socializing with anyone from school, and I get a break. Who wouldn't be glad?

Plus, I already planned on going back to Anders-my hometown-and spending the rest of the holiday with my peers. It not only keeps me far from here but also helps me get some peace of mind to see my mom again.

I already spent the last few hours trying to pack some of my things to bring and trying my best not to think of him.

Last time, he told me that he was going to stay here and probably continue working at the cafe through the holidays, which I find weird, but he says, and I quote, "More new promo deals come up near Christmas, meaning more customers."

I don't really know if I should be happy or disappointed at that thought, especially since we will cross borders if he goes back to our town. But right now, I want to clear my mind first, away from him.

I check my phone once again and am welcomed with a text from my mom.

Mom: When are you heading back?

I type out a reply of "By tomorrow" and leave our chathead.

Once again, I scroll through my contacts. Nothing new but random schoolmates trying to hit me up, yet my finger always leads into two numbers. One familiar and one unknown.

Asshole: have a nice trip!

It's funny how he hasn't figured out how to change his nickname.

I just sent him a like emoji to react, not reply. It will be better because it'll take me a few minutes again before stopping if I continue our conversation. However, my heart pounds as I check the other number I've been suspicious of.

Unknown Number: See you soon.

Fuck. And I couldn't be more annoyed.

I guess I'll spend my holiday spiraling.

————————

My feet brace themselves as I leave steps as marks while heading to the registrar's office.

I'm at campus once again and was just about to get my schedule for the new semester. I already filled out the form for the subjects I will be getting, and I'm just confirming my new schedule again.

However, it's not entirely pleasing since I have to first go through a line of hundreds of people before finalizing a new chapter. Of course, it wouldn't hurt to let us stand in the cold on our final day. It adds spice, I convince myself.

Even as I wear my favorite thick sweater, the cold somehow manages to creep up under my sleeves to touch my bare chest with uneasiness. Which is a sign that he's here. Nolan. No one really is able to make me feel that except him; even Wallen's glance at me says it all. So, I just signaled him a thumbs up.

He's alone and has probably just finished completing his requirements. Now, he's just sitting at a bench meters away from us while on his phone.

He seems to be texting someone, yet I'm now sure that since the last time I checked, I was the only one on his dial.