Just a Matter of Time

Amara

"Geez, has your grip gotten tighter in the past 21 years?" Elisha complained, pressing an ice pack against his ear.

I rolled my eyes, feeling like he was being overly dramatic. "Perhaps... I did take those taekwondo lessons back in middle school," I mumbled, trying to sound nonchalant as he shook his head in exasperation.

"Nice to see you're still your same self" he commented as I felt proud and smiled.

"How long are we going to stay out here?" Elisha asked, his voice tinged with impatience. I shrugged my shoulders, a smile playing on my lips.

"Until they all leave," I replied cheerfully, though my smile didn't quite reach my eyes.

Elisha let out an exaggerated groan. "And why are we hiding again?"

I took a deep breath, closing my eyes for a moment to gather my thoughts. "Oh, you know," I said with a dismissive wave, "sometimes it's just nice to take a break from all the... social activity. It's a lot to handle all at once."

Elisha gave me a skeptical look, raising an eyebrow. "Nice dodge. I'm guessing there's more to it than just needing a break."

I shrugged again, feigning nonchalance. "It's not like I have to explain every little thing. Sometimes you just need a moment away from everything. It's not a big deal."

Elisha smirked, clearly not buying my evasive answer but deciding to let it go. "Well, as long as you're not keeping me out here long. Your dad and I were going to enjoy some nice drinks and watch the game."

I grinned, feeling a twinge of guilt but also relief. "You're such an old man. Don't forget you are my friend not his."

Elisha shook his head, his eyes fixed on me with a mix of frustration and affection. "One of these days, I'll be free from you," he grumbled, though his tone was more resigned than serious. I laughed, knowing that despite his words, he'd always be around.

"I know you missed me. Plus, your ear looks fine now," I said, leaning in to gently touch the red spot. It was still tender, and I had probably overdone it a bit, but I was too wrapped up in the moment to care much.

Elisha maintained a flat expression, clearly unconvinced. "The party was peaceful before you dragged me out here to get abused," he said, his tone dripping with mock bitterness.

"Okay, 'abused' is such a strong word," I replied, rolling my eyes as he gave me a pointed glare.

"What do you call the past 21 years, then? Or did you forget elementary school?" he asked, his voice laced with both amusement and a touch of exasperation. I couldn't help but laugh as I remembered the countless times Elisha ended up injured because of my actions and drama.

"I was fighting off bullies. It was collateral damage," I defended with a grin, recalling the time I had accidentally pushed him too hard while trying to fend off a group of kids who were bothering him.

Elisha raised an eyebrow, still holding his flat expression. "Collateral damage, huh? I suppose that's one way to put it."

I looked at Elisha, my smile softening as I saw the familiar glimmer of concern in his eyes. "Is your dad here?" I asked, shifting the topic.

Elisha shook his head. "Work trip," he said, as we both gazed at the sky. The sun was beginning to set, painting the horizon in hues of orange and pink.

"How long are you staying?" I asked, turning to him. He hesitated, his eyes still on the sky.

"Not sure yet," he said, finally meeting my gaze with a thoughtful look.