Out Of The Woods || {H.S. AU}

Chapter 4.

Alice's POV

Lives in future are consummated by peoples determinations. These determinations are mostly dependant on the physical and mental state people are in when they have to determine. The current situation they live in will rarely give them much of time to think and rethink of the right decision.

Most of the time people don't give much of attention nor importance to decree that awaits them, but what they frequently keep on forgetting are possible consequences.

The most frequent decisions are regrettable decisions we make in a wrong time, in a wrong place, in a wrong state and that is why we need to be ready and prepared to welcome any kind of consequences.

Two hours since my own spirit rebukes and taunts me for not properly using my brain as a regular reminder of the ghastly, unforgettable past. On the other side, my brain is defensively switching blame to my heart, the only now satisfied and peaceful part of me.

My infringement of the most important regulation is constantly threatening me in a mocking tone as if fighting to betray me through my current actions and expressions.

Talking to a male person is one of the strictest regulations on the list, to not mention spending time with him or even going for a simple yet meaningful walk.

The battle seemingly simmers down at an invisible sight of his calming yet beautiful smile that flashes in front of my eyes from time to time.

Coffee-brown eyes are sparkling under the dim light, securely carrying strands of happiness and joy. Liam he is; even his name holds entertainment, but also high authority and respect.

I have never been this fast nor good to analyse personality after only one awkward meeting, but there is something alluring that surrounds him and I am afraid I cannot resist figuring him out.

"You are too quiet for my liking, Alice." A female voice pulls me back to reality and it takes me a few moments to regain the concentration at the mention of my name. "Is there something we should know?"

"No, mum." I regrettably lie and my heartbeat picks its rhythm a bit quicker than usual. She swiftly extends her hand across the table and I reflexively flinch.

"I am not going to hit you without any reason, Alice." She states with a hint of amusement in her voice laced by pride as she hands me a fork. "Eat."

With a deep sigh, I silently thank her and send a quick glance to my father. A sting of pain marks my feels at the familiarity of his bloodshot deep colour red eyes when they meet mine for a brief second. It has been two years but somehow I still don't manage to adapt to this side of him.

"Last night," my mother speaks, gaining attention from everyone in the room. "Your behaviour crossed some specific limits. Likewise, you probably noticed the consequence."

I frown in confusion. "Me?"

"No," she involuntarily snaps and violently shakes her head, "Probably my nan rushed out of her grave to bear her consequences."

Blinking away the confusion, I manage to faintly nod in some kind of understanding and tear my gaze apart, refocusing on the full plate in front of me. Way to ruin the moment, Alice.

"I took your phone away," she takes a deep breath, hesitantly explaining. "For the last time, are you sure you have nothing to tell us?"

"No?" I fearfully gulp, half-questioning her. The need and persistence of repeating the same question in her voice warns me at the possible consequences I was and still am fully aware of, causing the slightest part of my confidence to selfishly undermine.