Kismet [ENGLOT]

Chapter 10

Charlotte's POV:

I closed the door softly behind me, leaning against its cool surface as I tried to process the whirlwind of emotions that just unfolded with Engfa. A palpable tension lingered in the air, wrapping around me like a fog that refused to lift. My stomach knotted tighter with confusion, the weight of the moment pressing down on me. What was this feeling? It was an alien sensation, unlike anything I'd ever experienced before, leaving me both exhilarated and anxious. I felt adrift, caught in the uncertainty of what this all meant.

Spaced out completely, still unmoved by the world around me, I heard my dad's voice calling from the staircase. "Charlotte? Are you back already?" he inquired, his footsteps echoing softly against the wooden stairs as he made his way down.

"Hey, Dad! Yes, I just got home. The sky was absolutely beautiful tonight," I replied, a hint of lingering awe in my voice as I thought of the past three hours I just spent under the starry sky.

"I heard a car pull up outside. Did someone drop you off?" he asked, his brows knitting together with concern as he reached the bottom of the stairs.

I hesitated, weighing my options. Should I tell him the truth? "Uh, yes. Engfa gave me a ride." I felt a knot tighten in my stomach. "She saw me walking alone and offered me a lift home." His gaze locked onto mine, a flicker of distrust flashing in his eyes.

"Engfa? Engfa Waraha? That brat who bullies everyone in your school?" he scoffed, incredulity woven through his voice. "Since when did you become friends with her?" The disappointment was palpable, and I braced myself for more judgment.

"Dad, we're hardly friends," I replied, trying to keep my tone light. "She was just being nice. We're only acquaintances because we're set to perform together in our next play at the drama club."

His brow furrowed as he gave me a scrutinizing look. "Well, just watch out. People like her can be contagious. You might end up influenced by them," he warned, his voice laced with concern before he turned and climbed the stairs back to his room.

A heavy sigh escaped my lips. Deep down, I knew my dad had a point; Engfa was trouble. She had a way of turning everything she touched into chaos, and I wanted no part of it. Yet, beneath her charming façade, a nagging feeling lingered—a sense that there was more to her than met the eye. If only I could peel back the layers of her exterior, perhaps I would catch a glimpse of the real her, quietly cooped up within.

—------

The sharp sound of the bell echoed through the classroom, signaling the end of another lesson. As I began to fold my notebooks and gather my pens, Marima and Mew approached, their footsteps light against the tiled floor. Mew flashed a bright smile, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. We were catching up and laughing while walking to where my locker was when he suddenly asked, "Wanna hang out and grab some coffee? My treat!" he suggested, his tone inviting as we stepped into the bustling hallway.

I paused, glancing at my watch, a wave of regret washing over me. "Sorry, I can't. I have plans. I need to get home soon," I replied, my voice laced with genuine remorse.

Mew's expression shifted momentarily, disappointment flickering across his face like a candle's flame before it steadied into a practiced smile. "It's okay. Maybe next time," he said, trying to mask his letdown as he waved goodbye with his uninjured hand, his figure slowly retreating down the hall.

As Mew walked away, Marima leaned in closer, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "Char, how can you be so oblivious? Why did you turn Mew down? He clearly wants to spend time with you!" Her eyes gleamed with concern and incredulity.

I sighed, shaking my head as I continued packing my things. "Mar, I wasn't lying. I really have plans today." She scrutinized me, crossing her arms with an arched eyebrow.