The Distance Between Us

chapter 2. CrimsoNuts

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Screams of girls surrounded me as the ball I shot went in the ring. My team celebrated as they carried me. Another win for the team, yet I feel empty. Like always, I left without them noticing me. Leaving the campus and going to the nearby sea. The place looks beautiful at night.

Arthur? 

A voice behind me speaks. I turned around and saw Emily. I gave her a soft smile. Is she a fan of mine as well that she knows I'm here?

Oh, hey. You're here too?

I asked softly as I tried to mask my tired voice. I'm a perfect guy in their eyes, my reputation. The walls I built should not break down. She just looked at me. Worry sketched on her face. I just now noticed her features. Chubby cheeks, Chubby body, and sweet eyes. 

I was just going to walk around as well.. I brought you Boba.

She said while looking down and her face slightly turning red again. What a girl usually do when they like a guy. Act cute, Buy the guy things or food. I don't really like those, but for the sake of Emily, I'll accept it.

Thank you, Emily. I'll accept this just this time. I'm not really advised to drink these as an athlete 

I gave her a soft smile and looked at her. I took a sip of the drink she gave me and gave her a smile. This drink is pathetic. I'm having an episode, and I just can't show it in front  of her. 

Alright, take care, and don't stay out too late. 

I said before walking away and heading to take a seat on a bench. She walked the opposite way and sat down by the bench, not too far away from me. It felt awkward; I felt sorry. I sighed and just decided to go home. But i stopped. My feet had their own mind, and I walked towards her. 

Emily?

My soft voice rang through her ears, and her head shot up. I gave her an apologetic smile; she slightly felt bad. Maybe she saw through my mask. I sat down beside her and looked out at the horizon.

Did you need something?

Emily asked, and i stayed quiet. For some reason, I felt comfortable around her. Though I just met her yesterday, it feels like our souls have already met each other in every universe. Like I have connected with her for years now.

Many people bully you? Everyone was just laughing when you stumbled, and no one even dared to help you.

She looked at me, anxious and uncomfortable about the topic I had just brought up. I laughed softly and shook my head. Cursing at myself for talking about that with someone I just met yesterday. I took a sip of the Boba again. This is actually good.

My bad. I shouldn't be talking about that. It already happened yesterday, so the past is past. I apologize-

It's because not many would want to be associated with someone like me.

Someone like you? How are you different?

I looked at her, confused. Someone like her? Is there a beef going on around the school that I don't know? I was actually happy she was comfortable enough to share her feelings. She smiled at me.. To mask her true self, just like me.

Don't worry. I'm already used to it. By the way, does the Boba taste good? 

Yeah, It's good.

She changed the topic; she was uncomfortable. I have never been interested in any girl before, but she has piqued my curiosity.

Just minutes later, I felt a small drop of water on my skin. Immediately, I pulled out my umbrella and protected both of us from the rain. Well.. this looks like one of those Korean dramas I have cried to.

Do you wanna stop at my house?

....

Wait, that's weird. uhm- let's just wait here until the rain stops-

I felt embarrassed, but her soft laugh distracted me. She gave a smile with those captivating eyes of her that I just can't help but stare at. I chuckled and cursed at myself.

It's fine if you invited me to your house. I.. trust you.

My eyes widened at her answer. This is my first time inviting a girl over at my house. I cleared my throat and stood up. Offering her my arm for her to hold on to as we walk underneath the rain.
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Author's note here! Thank you to everyone that has read Chapter 1. For a small writer like me, it really helped me. CrimsoNuts, as the title of this chapter, was actually made by the guy I have feelings for, aka the inspiration for this book. thank you!