Just One

Chapters 14 and 15

Chapter – 14 ANNA: "Is it just coincidence, or is destiny conspiring?"

On Monday, during the break, as soon as I entered the cafeteria, I spotted Cass sitting at our usual table. I approached her, sat down next to her, and gave her a warm hug. "Hey, Cass, are you feeling better today? Did you sleep well?" I asked worriedly.

Cass, with a sad but consoled tone, replies: "Yes, I'm better. Nick was very caring yesterday. I was even surprised; I didn't expect him to come to my house. Even late, he came to visit me. Look, he's coming over there."

I look in the direction Cass is pointing and see Nick approaching with a determined look and a gentle smile on his face. My heart races, and a mixture of feelings and emotions take hold of me: fear, joy, and insecurity intertwine in my mind and body. I follow his steps towards our table. He smiles, steals my apple, and, with his usual gesture, squeezes himself between us, pushing us with his body to make room. His eyes meet mine, and he kisses me on the cheek. He hugs and kisses Cass lovingly and carefully, which causes me subtle discomfort. At the same time, as I feel relief that things seem to be returning to normal, a feeling of jealousy settles in, hurting me inside.

Nick, always caring, settles Cass on his shoulder and asks her: "How are you feeling today?" Cass replies serenely: "I'm much better, especially after you came to my house. Thank you. I didn't even notice when you left yesterday. What time did you leave?"

"Around 11:30 pm. You were sleeping so soundly that I didn't want to wake you up." Nick replies to Cass.

At that moment, my heart clenches. The feeling of witnessing a special connection between the two leaves me torn between happiness for Cass being well and discomfort at realizing that Nick seems willing to invest in their relationship. I watch them exchange words and feel out of place. As I try to stand up to leave them on their own, Nick gently holds my arm, keeping me by his side, and, with his hypnotic gaze, says: "Where are you going? It's not time yet. And how about you? Are you okay?"

I answer sheepishly, looking away from his eyes: "Yeah, I guess everything's fine now." Nick slowly tilts his head, agreeing with my answer. The three of us remain silent for a few minutes, and Nick starts talking about the car fair he had visited with his uncle. The mood becomes lighter, and shortly afterward, the bell rings, signaling the end of the break. Each of us heads off to our respective classrooms.

I spent the rest of the day waiting for Nick to call me to do something together, but the phone didn't ring.



The next day, when I arrived at the cafeteria, I saw Nick and Cass already sitting together at our table. I hesitate whether I should approach them or simply turn around, but Cass waves to me, inviting me to sit with them. However, instead of sitting next to Nick, I choose a position in front of them.

Cass starts telling me about a tribute her father will receive on Friday, followed by a gala party. She invited me, saying that it would be great if Zack and I could attend as well.

I reply promptly: "No, Cass, firstly, I don't even have appropriate clothes for a gala party, and secondly, I am not even sure if Zack is coming this weekend."

Cass insists: "Anna, that's not an excuse. You know I have wonderful dresses that I've only worn once, and I'm sure they'll fit you perfectly. And as for Zack, just give him a call and ask."

Nick joins the conversation, encouraging me to go: "Come on, Anna, call Zack. I believe he'll probably come, since he didn't come last weekend, right?"

"Yeah, he didn't come. He had a game on Saturday."

Cass adds: "I'm sure Zack would love the idea of going to this party. It's going to be a big event, Anna. Give him a call and see what he thinks."

Still unsure, I reply: "I don't know, Cass. I need to think about it, and I'll get back to you."