Gore.

Chapter 14~ Painting

I stared intently at the demon painting that everybody says I made. It was hanging in a bulletin board so everyone can see it. The demon inside the artwork is also staring back at me. It feels like the painting is moving— it looks like it's smiling at me because I'm defeated. He defeated me. And now I can't believe I will represent the school for this stupid artwork. I can't believe I agreed.

"Ms. Alighieri, I have an agreement for you."

I frowned at Mr. Chavez when he summoned me in his office. He told me there will be other two students that will also represent the school to compete for the Arts festival. He wanted me to join them, he wanted me to win. I don't even understand what's the point of all of this anymore.

"I'm sorry Sir but I really can't do this anymore. I-"

"Arabella if you agreed to this I'm giving you a one hundred percent scholarship for your chosen school in college. This is a great opportunity, your sister won't work that hard anymore just to shoulder your tuition fees."

My mouth fell open. Is this bribery? An opportunity? I can't believe what I've just heard. A hundred percent scholarship in college is a great opportunity. I don't have to work hard just to earn it. This teacher will grant it for me just to make me join in a contest. My sister will be happy if she hears about this.

But do I really want this?

"A-a scholarship.."

He nodded, "Full scholarship to any college school you want. Just say yes and this business is a deal."

It seems like he's one of the voices in my head now. He makes me confused and make me do things. But I like his offer. It's hard to say no to that. I stared at Mr. Chavez for a while, trying to scrutinize him if he is lying or not. But if he really is, I can sue him, right?

I blew out a sigh, the teacher is still waiting for my response. I shifted in my seat, this conversation is making me uncomfortable.

"A hundred percent scholarship... uh, are you sure you're not joking?" I asked in confusion. Mr. Chavez chuckles and shook his head.

"Ms. Alighieri, trust me I'm not."

I bit my lip, my dreams will be granted if I agree. Even if the painting is creeping me out, I must conquer it.

"Okay. Fine. I'll join." I saw him grinned and shook my hand.

"Then it's a deal. Thank you Arabella, my support is always for you. Good luck."

The Arts festival will be held tomorrow. I guess everyone is excited—except me. I tear my eyes away from the painting and I walked out. Leaving some students in there. I heard many of them are gossiping that I was being possessed by some demon because I drew that painting. I know it's very peculiar for me to draw demonic things and I am really surprised by that.

Some of them loved it. They were cheering me up and hoping me to win including my best friends. I guess there's something wrong with them. I don't understand what's happening anymore.

Holding up my tray of foods, I walked in the cafeteria to find a chair to sit on. There are a lot of students occupying the tables. I wonder where are my friends? I looked around but I can't see them. I guess it's difficult when you only have two friends. It's hard for me to trust new people, I'm not even a popular so I don't even know why Adam noticed me. When he was my boyfriend I didn't even gain new friends.