Inflicting Pain (gxg)

● F O U R | Emerald Green ●

† Q U I N N †

Jewelry has never held much allure for me, aside from a simple necklace and ring that I often pair with my outfits, preferring the simplicity of understated elegance. Most girls at school, however, seem to drape themselves in a dazzling array of jewels—gold chains that glint under the lights, lustrous pearls that catch the eye, and sparkling diamonds that twinkle like stars. They wear them layered, adorning themselves from head to toe. Yet, despite my indifference to the rest, there's one particular gemstone that captivates me—Emeralds.

The most abundant hue in nature, the human eye sees more green than any other color in the spectrum as it has throughout history, multifaceted emerald continues to sparkle and fascinate. Symbolically, emerald brings a sense of clarity, renewal and rejuvenation. 

"There are only two kinds of people in the world that really count. One kind's wheat and the other kind's emeralds."

The quote implies that both kinds of people are essential in their own right. While some contribute through their simplicity and support (the wheat), others add flair and inspiration (the emeralds). It highlights the idea that society needs both types of individuals to thrive, emphasizing a balance between the everyday and the extraordinary. The underlying message also serves as a gentle reminder that everyone has their own unique role to play in this world, whether they are quietly existing in the background or shining brilliantly at the forefront.

The cafeteria buzzed with life, students from various departments mingling and chattering over their lunches, even though it was already 2 PM. I scanned the room, searching for a place to sit, when my eyes landed on her—Chloe. She had set her bag and books on a nearby table and was now making her way to the counter, her attention absorbed by her phone.

Without a second thought, I quickened my pace, falling into line behind her. She didn't notice me at first, too engrossed in her screen as she read through her emails.

"I don't usually see Pre-Meds lurking around this cafeteria," I teased, my voice breaking through the noise. She startled at the sound, spinning around to face me, her eyes widening in surprise.

"There's no food left at the cafeteria near our building," she replied, her tone casual as she turned back to her phone, her attention shifting away from me. I nodded in response, letting a low hum escape my lips. 

I couldn't tear my gaze away from her nape—her neck was pale and smooth, glowing under the cafeteria lights. An electric tension coursed through me as I felt my jaws tighten, my breath quickening, and I realized I was unconsciously gritting my teeth. My fingers fidgeted restlessly as I struggled to rein in my desire, captivated by the temptation to reach out, to let my fingertips graze the soft surface of her skin. The urge to touch her was almost overwhelming, but I fought to maintain my composure. 

As soon as I settled my bill at the counter, I glanced around the bustling cafeteria until my eyes landed on Chloe. She was seated alone, still absorbed in her phone. I took a steady breath and walked towards her, and when I reached her table, I placed my food tray down with a soft clatter, a small declaration of my presence. "Mind if I join you?" I asked, a hint of playful challenge in my voice. Chloe barely looked up, still glued to the screen, but her head lifted just enough to acknowledge my presence. She lifted her gaze, still seemingly tethered to her phone, and replied without missing a beat, "I have company."

My curiosity piqued, I noticed the small mountain of sandwiches piled on her tray, an unusual feast for one. "Is that how you usually refuse people from sharing a table with you? By buying a mountain of food and claiming you have company?" I shot back, my tone teasing.

Chloe raised her hand, displaying a text message from a friend that read they were running a bit late and had asked her to order food for them. I couldn't help but chuckle at her predicament, but despite the message, I made my move, pulling out the chair across from her and settling in.