Blue Flower

Chapter 17

-Andrew-

“He’s there. And he wants to talk to you.” Chester said and pointed to a bleacher where there was a man sitting alone.

“Okay. Thanks.” I said and took my steps to him.

Michael turned his head and smiled. Despite that bright and sunny gesture, I never dared to smile back. Those memories he created while he left me still made my heart feel a searing, incurable pain. He patted the seat next to him.

I had no choice but to sit down.

“What do you really want?” I asked, my voice was as hard as these cemented seats.

“Does it still hurt?” he asked, referring to my injury.

“Well, it’s none of your business really. Got it?”

“It’s my concern. You’re my brother.” he insisted.

I threw a sharp look at him.

“But you are an adopted, right? We’re not connected by blood.”

He was quiet for a minute. Then spoke again.

“In my heart, you are my brother, Andrew. Nothing will change.”

“You’re kidding.” I said and stood up. I groaned when I stepped my injured feet and almost lost my balance.

Michael caught me just in time.

“Be careful.”

I sat back next to him, contemplating at a blank area.

“Andrew?”

“Yeah?”

“I’m sorry.”

It seemed so usual, but I was taken by surprise. Those were the words I’ve been dying to hear from him. He totally admitted his mistake. I knew I had to stop myself from crying. This would burst out of me any time.

“Don’t be, ‘cause I won’t forgive you.” I said and carefully stood up. I walked slowly away from him, and then silence came and hugged us both.

On the way out of the soccer field, I saw Chester standing alone. He was looking at the wide green expanse, still absorbed in his own thoughts. I stopped and stood next to him.

I fist-bumped his upper arm.

“What are you thinking?” I asked.

He blinked.

“N-Nothing. I’m just waiting for you,” he answered.

I smiled. I was sure he was the one who set this up.

“Chester, I just want to tell you that I don’t want to see Michael again. There’s no way for you to bring us back.” I said. I hope he wouldn’t be offended. He was my friend, and I appreciated his efforts.

He had a dismayed and dejected look in his eyes. I offended him.

“O-Okay, I’m sorry.”

“But, thanks anyway. I’m glad you made a way for me. I’m so happy for that.”

He slightly smiled, though the pain I inflicted him was obvious with the way he looked.”

“I have to go.” I said and patted his shoulder twice.