[A] Twelve

W

(Dazed and Confused by Jake Miller)

What must've been painful, must be dismissed in thoughts. Emilia practiced the mantra for a while now. It was what she needed - to make it through the days she'd set.

She needed him to know.

It was selfish of her, but she's already decided. Her parents knew - but they kept mum about it. It was a goal she needs to accomplish by herself.

Monday went in like a normal day for everyone; but it's a day set to be productive for her.

She walked through the halls, bumping to the rushing students, she almost fell. But a familiar scent came to rescue, she smiled at the thought of him.

"Brenny." Her voice soft. She knew it sounded odd, but sincere. She missed him and his snob personality.

He let her go as soon as she was able to stand up again - left her amidst everyone who seemed to not notice the short, bittersweet scene.

Her heart began to ache.

***

If Emilia wasn't a clumsy fish, I would've not come up to her. But she was. And I wasn't going to just let everyone laugh at her if she ever fell, I wasn't that heartless.

I just hoped she'd realise that I wouldn't be able to return her feelings. I wasn't obligated to return her feelings, but I can't tell her no, for some reasons.

So I think it's just best to avoid. Less talk, less mistake.

We weren't close enough to part like we were the best of friends anyway.

I closed my locker after I threw all my books in it, now my bag felt lighter than ever. I was about to go to the cafeteria when I was approached by Ivory, the girl with oozing hotness. I find her impressive with regards to her physique, but, that's it. People in the campus link us like we were the perfect pair of shoes. I just went in with the flow - though, I never really entertained the girl.

"Hi, Baby. Dale got us parties for later and tomorrow night, you coming?" She asked seductively, her hands tracing my chest - she's kind of a slut, I know. I didn't care though, never really cared for these stinky people.

"Well," I paused, deliberating my answer. There'd be booze and alcohol though I never really participated in those.

As I was about to tell Ivory no, I saw Emilia staring from across the hallway. She'd just came out from a class, I suppose. I had to shoo her away so I tried to talk animatedly with Ivory (quote-unquote) and told her the opposite.

Now I had to go somewhere else later at night. Damn.

***

Emilia went home as soon as the bell rang. She wasn't feeling well; and she needed time to regain her energy.

Ivory and Brentice had been the couple of the campus for a while now. They looked good together - they say - perfect even. But she never agreed on that, Brentice doesn't like those types - that's what she knew. But she can't understand why he entertains the girl.

Or maybe she never really liked the idea so she'd dismiss it as soon as people starts talking about it.

Somehow, it frustrates her. She told herself she'd just let him know - but sometimes, she can't help but wish - that he'd see her in a different light. 

She opened a carton of milk and poured a lot in frustration, it leaked. She wanted so badly to go to that party - but her parents won't allow her. 

Not thinking twice, she ran to her room leaving the glass of milk empty.

***

Loud music welcomed Brentice as he went inside the party house. He occasionally goes to such but the whole atmosphere always becomes a turn off to him.

"Brent!" Dale called him from the bar island. 

Dale might be one of those stereotype jocks but he could be a nice friend when he's needed to. He's the closest to him and he's his partner in crime on most days. 

"Dude." He greeted. They did a manly hug and that's when Ivory came into view. She was in her usual attire - body fitting mini dress and high heels. She winked at him; he timidly smiled at her.

"Hey," It wasn't that late, but the girl already stinks of alcohol. It made him rethink his decision of going to the party. "You wanna drink?"

He can literally see the stars in her eyes as she starts to sway her way towards him. He heaved a sigh.

"You're drunk, Ivory." He stated, as if the girl would even care. She laughed heartily and put her arms around his neck carelessly. 

"Let's dance." She offered him. She was so drunk he can't help but hold her waist. 

Brentice sighed and joined her to the dance floor.