Earth (Complete)

Ten

She put me in bed that night, tucked me in like a little five year old, and as soon as I was in, she was on the phone with Mrs. Stogan herself, Jeremy's mother, informing her about the events of the day. And of course, Mrs. Stogan being mother's good friend and all, sided with the weeping girl lying in her bed, heartbroken that she didn't get a marriage proposal from her darling Jeremy.

I know I was being incredibly childish about it all, but it just felt so nice to have some of mum's attention, it felt so good to receive so much affection from her. To have her like I did when Cody rebelled during his childhood, always setting things on fire and pulling mum's hair. She'd leave dad to deal with him while she gave her good little girl, Jane, all her love and adoration. Plus, all these things took my mind off Dylan.

How could he call me such things, when I despised every single word? I hated this life. Despite all its privileges and having mother's love, I craved the freedom Dylan had. He waltzed around wherever he pleased, getting into clubs, social events and public places. Hell, he walked through 56 damn sections without anyone noticing.

I truly wonder how he did it. Perhaps he just knew his way around. Perhaps he was just popular. Well, whatever it was, I wanted it. And I wanted him. Took me a while to admit that, but halfway through my sleepless night and towards the end of mother's timeless phone call, I realised I wanted Dylan in my life and I can't believe I messed things up so bad.

The next day, Jeremy was at my door, bright and early, begging for my forgiveness for not being a better suitor and helping me find my bracelet. Obviously, Mrs. Stogan had a good talking to him last night. But I guess she omitted chunks of information while she shouted him. The boy was still completely clueless as to what he was supposed to do.

Nevertheless, he played his part well, concealing the tiny glances he flung at every passerby who had shoulders like a brick wall and a jawline that can slice through your flesh with a mere glance. Despite the fact that it grossed me out to be near him when he was making googly eyes at everything with a penis, I kinda pitied him. It took a lot to hide what you really were in this dying world and it would be even more difficult in the next. I couldn't imagine having to live with someone who'd repulse you for the rest of your miserable little life.

Oh, wait. I could.

We saw each other three times more that week and not once had he mentioned marriage. Not that it bothered me, but mother was getting impatient, each time making me wear something that showed off a little bit more than the last – sleeveless dresses, dresses that cut a little low by my chest. Little did she know, showing off some skin and bending the rules did little to please my so-called manly suitor.

I could tell she was desperate for this. If I were to marry someone from Sec.1, our fate was sealed for the next world. We were set to live a life of absolute luxury and sophistication, gaining the desired respect my parents craved for so many years. We'd move up in the ranks of importance and wealth. They'd be happy, finally.

And through all this, I received no word from Dylan.

He didn't call, didn't text, didn't pitch up unexpectedly. I was losing my marbles trying to forget about him and at the same time, willing my phone to beep as a sign I've received a message from him. But nothing. And while I tolerated Jeremy's existence for the time being, I couldn't stand thinking about what life would be like with him. You know, long term. And I couldn't stop thinking how much better life would be with Dylan. Fun, energetic, carefree. But I've landed up with Jeremy. Ah, what will become of me?

I am doomed to live a life with a gay husband, force him to sleep with me so we can consummate the marriage and give life to another ugly, orange haired, pimply kid who's probably going to be all 'la-di-da' as well. I can only pray there'll be only one. Otherwise, I'll have to put a knife to my throat before the next one pops out.