Rhythm Of Rivals

10.

Gemini's POV

I woke up to the sound of raised voices, my heart sinking as I recognized the familiar tension.

"You allowed him to go on that stupid trip without consulting me?" Dad's anger reverberated through the house.

Mom remained calm. "I thought it was a good opportunity for him, and the school insisted it's compulsory."

"A waste of time and money! He needs to focus on studies, not gallivanting with friends," Dad retorted.

I gripped my pillow, anxiety building. Mom countered, "You're always controlling everything, never letting him have a childhood."

I couldn't take it anymore. "STOP! PLEASE, JUST STOP!" I shouted, rushing downstairs.

My parents turned, surprised by my outburst.

"Dad, I want to go on this trip. It means a lot to me," I pleaded.

His expression hardened. "You're going to regret this, Gemini. Mark my words; these days you're crossing all the lines."

Mom placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "I've already given my consent. You can go."

Dad's face reddened, and for a moment, I feared his anger would boil over. Instead, he stormed out of the house.

"Go and get ready, Gemini. You still have college to attend."

I nodded and went to get ready, my mood already ruined.

Why did I have to go through this? How long would it last? Where are you phii... please come backk...

My thoughts swirled as I approached the college gate.

Fourth's POV

I leaned against the college entrance, scanning the crowd for Gemini. My eyes locked onto his familiar figure, and a smile crept onto my face. I quickly suppressed it, not wanting to draw attention.

Gemini approached, his expression a stark contrast to my excitement.

"Hey," I said softly, trying to sound nonchalant.

Gemini's response was curt. "What?"

I raised an eyebrow, taken aback by his tone. "Just... hey."

End of fourth's POV

Author's POV

Gemini's gaze swept past Fourth, his eyes clouded with emotions. "If you're here to annoy me, then just get lost, Fourth."

Fourth's smile faltered, but he refused to let Gemini's words sting. "Hey, I was just-"

"You were just what? Trying to pretend we're friends? Newsflash, Fourth: we're not," Gemini snapped.

Fourth's eyes narrowed. "What's your problem, Gem? Can't handle a simple 'hello'?"

Gemini's expression darkened. "You think you can just walt in here, acting all friendly, after everything?"

His voice dropped to a menacing whisper. "You have no idea what's going on in my life, Fourth. So don't pretend to care."