Dark Paradise

Chapter 2

ALEXANDRA

Morning came quickly, and I wanted to keep sleeping, but I had to go to university. I didn't like missing classes because it meant falling behind. Besides, I enjoyed seeing Vanessa with her crazy ideas and watching my classmates scrambling to finish projects they left for the last minute. University was like seeing multiple worlds in one.

—Alexa! I have a surprise for you. — Vanessa shouted, approaching the empty seat next to me.

We were in a politics class, and to be honest, I was falling asleep, even though I tried to pretend I wasn't.

—Tell me. — I responded cautiously, aware that she loved to pull pranks, and my temper could flare up at any moment. Vanessa was like a needle, ready to pop my balloon at any time. She was the typical annoying friend with anxious attachment. We were total opposites, like cats and dogs, but she was the only person I talked to at university. I wasn't one for making friends, but she had earned that spot a little bit.

—I have two tickets for the Spines Breaker concert. I know you like one of the band members. You told me that a few days ago. It's for today. I don't have anyone to go with me. ¡Come on! Let's go! — she said excitedly, reminding me of the time she caught me watching videos of the band's vocalist on social media—Gabriel Bennett, the typical tattooed guy. I liked his looks, his voice, his masculinity, but I wasn't a fan of him or the band. I was just attracted to him as a man, and, well, a bit of his talent. They had some good songs.

—What? For today? — I asked.

—Yes...today — Vanessa said, avoiding my gaze.

—You couldn't have told me after the concert was over instead? — I replied sarcastically. I liked planning everything ahead of time, and she was the kind of girl who loved doing things last minute.

—¡Oh, come on! Don't do homework today, please. It's my way of thanking you for helping me with the university assignments. Besides, I'm your only friend, and you're mine. — Vanessa said, pulling my arm like a little kid.

—Okay, fine, but I'm going to see my grandpa after class. I'll let you know when I'm out. — I assured her.

Vanessa nodded and returned to her seat near the teacher because she was the class assistant, her energy often helping him keep the class going.

The professor kept talking, and I was starting to feel relaxed. I didn't even realize when I fell asleep until I felt a soft tap on my back. I jumped when I saw it was the professor smiling kindly at me. Everyone else, though, burst into laughter at my expense.

I tried to hide my embarrassment as the giggles and whispers slowly died down. The professor continued with his lecture, but I found it hard to focus. Vanessa kept giving me apologetic looks from the other side of the room. Finally, the bell rang, signaling the end of class.

—I'm really sorry, Alexa. I didn't mean to get you into trouble — Vanessa apologized as we left the classroom.

—Don't worry, Vanessa. It wasn't your fault. — I said, smiling to reassure her. —Besides, I need to take a break. This concert will be a good chance to clear my mind.

We headed to the cafeteria for lunch before our next classes. Vanessa was still buzzing with excitement, talking nonstop about the band, the concert, and how it would be an unforgettable night. I smiled and nodded, letting her enthusiasm rub off on me.

After class, I said goodbye to her and made my way to see my grandfather.

I took a bus to the nursing home where the old man I loved so much lived. My grandpa had heart problems, and his health had worsened in recent months, especially now that he was showing signs of Alzheimer's. Sitting by the window, watching the urban scenery blur past, I began to remember with sadness.