Behind the Mask

Chapter 16: Dad

Chapter 16: Dad

On the last day of finals I just avoided anyone and everyone. I didn’t want to talk to anyone and no one dared talk to me. So either way it was fine by me. I ambled my way to my locker to collect some stuff I wanted over break.

Tomorrow I would go and beg for Alice’s forgiveness, now that I had my mom back. I needed Alice too. I told her anything and everything; she was my best friend after all. As I opened my locker door three neatly folded notes fell to the ground one after the other.

Surprised I leaned down to collect them each had my name inscribed on the front of the note. One I immediately recognized the handwriting, Alice’s. The two others were above my knowledge.

I quickly slipped all three into my pocket, the bell was about to ring and I couldn’t risk being late for my French final. I dashed off to class the notes burning a hole in my pocket. Curiosity over what words those notes contained seemed to cloud my mind. But once that test was set in front of me, I pushed all weary thoughts from my head and focused solely on my final.

I didn’t dare read the notes until after the half day was over. Even though the entire time it was killing me no to just whip out the notes midway through the final and read them. But I controlled my curiosity for the time required.

But once my time was my own I ripped the flaming notes from my pockets. Letting people rush past me ready for the freedom of break, I sat myself down on the front steps of the school steering clear of rampaging feet.

Pulling my backpack in front of me in an attempt to block the bitter wind I began to unfold the note from Alice first. Hers intrigued me the most, what would she have to say to me?

Isabel,

I still hold a grudge but I can’t hold it forever. Don't forget that.

Alice

It was simple words but those words meant so much to me. She fully intended to reignite our friendship, even though it would take time. I could care less; all I wanted was my best friend back.

Next I pulled out the second note this handwriting was chicken scratch; it had to be a guys hands down. I unfolded the letter and began to read.

Jelly Belly,

I have been working on Alice for you. I forgave you the moment I saw you crying on Monday. Alice is a different story; she doesn’t fully understand why, hell neither do I. But I know you have a damn good reason.

Ben

Ben’s note brought a smile to my lips and chuckle from my throat. He always knew how to make me smile, even in my darkest days. Ben was actually quite perceptive and trusting. He was a great friend to have, and I was glad to have him.

I took out the third note this one was beat up and torn in some places, but my name was in delicate cursive. I was quite impressed at the fluidness of the stroke. I gently unfolded the note as if it was about to disintegrate at my touch.

Isabel,

You’re still something to me.

There was no signature but there was no doubt about who wrote the carefully written note. I just held it in my hands as they began to shake. That was the last thing I wanted to hear, I wanted nothing more than to forget him, and he was like disease that still wouldn’t leave me alone long after I was cured.

He left me for her. That’s all that needs to be said, I wasn’t the one he wanted to be with. He didn’t want to be with one he wanted to be with many. And I was just another pawn in his games to checkmate.