Turn Away | c.h

Chapter 29 - Pathetic

Here I was, walking the same halls with the same people at the same time. They were always so busy- everyone was pushing everyone out of the way in order to get to class on time. I never let it bother me, though- as much as I hated the hustle and bustle of these halls, in a way I found it kind of comforting, because it reminded me I wasn't alone.

My father had a way of making me feel alone and insignificant, but when I was here walking these halls, I didn't feel that way. I was just like everyone else, I was equal and I was important. That wouldn't last long though, but it was nice to feel that way even if it was only short lived.

Suddenly, I felt a hand grab mine, tugging me until I was yanked from the crowded hallways. I was pulled behind the wall, causing me to try and pull away. Because when I caught a glimpse of who was trying to catch me, I felt my insides drop. I didn't want to talk to him.

"Stella-"

"Chet, I said don't ever talk to me again." I snapped, going to walk away. But his hand touched mine again, pulling me back towards him before I could walk off.

"Can you just chill? I just want to talk."

"No."

"Stella-" he groaned. I turned to face him.

"I said I don't want to talk." I bitterly said, turning around and beginning to walk away.

"Stella, I'm sorry... Fuck, I wanted to say i'm sorry. Can you not make this any harder on me?" He said, causing me to stop in my tracks. He's what? Chet Maitland is sorry? This was crazy, surely something not human had possessed him because the Chet I knew, would never apologise.

I slowly turned around, looking back at him.

"What..?"

"Can you come here?" He asked, gesturing me closer. Hesitantly, I took a step closer, as I tried to comprehend the situation.

"I wanted to apologise for being a dick. I was thinking about it the other day, it was such a fucking dick move for being such a pervert... I'm really not usually like that. You just kinda drive me mad." He awkwardly chuckled. I raised my eyebrows at his words- what?

"So I was kind of hoping we could start fresh, you know? Wipe the slate clean. I want to get to know you better, Stel, you're-"

"Please don't call me that." I said, awkwardly looking away as the name left his lips. That nickname was reserved for Calum only. The way he said it, was always so sweet. It sounded so needy and loving. Hearing it coming from Chet's mouth, it just sounded filthy and like a failed attempt of sounding affectionate.

"Sorry. The point is, I'm sorry, okay? Can we please just start fresh."

"I guess... On one condition." I said, watching as a small smile grew on his lips.

"Okay, sure."

"You never lay a finger on Calum again. You don't falsely accuse him anymore, you just let him be." I said, watching as he chuckled, eyebrows raising. He stared down at me, hands moving to his hips.

"Really?"

"Yes, really. I'm tired of you messing with him, he doesn't deserve it."

"You're so far up his ass, I swear-" he chuckled. "Fine- whatever. I'm done with Calum. Are we all good now?" He said, running a hand through his hair. I couldn't help but smile, softly nodding.

"Yeah. We're good."

"Good. So," he smiled, taking a step closer. I watched him carefully- I still didn't trust him, so I was still keeping boundaries. He seemed fake, but I couldn't pinpoint how.