The Pursuit of Happiness

7. So Close and Yet So Far

(Edd)

"What the hell was he doing here Sockhead??" He stared at me while I calmly cleared up the rest of the pretzels that were on the table. Carefully trying to avoid his gaze.

"Eddy please, language. I believe Kevin already answered your question. I simply was helping him with his homework Eddy." I replied.

I rubbed my eyes. I was too exhausted to argue with him. Almost kissing Kevin, not to mention almost getting caught by Eddy, sucked out most of my energy. I sat on couch to rest.

Eddy stood over me. "Ever since the summer, you two have been on each other's sack. It's starting to bug me"

"And why, pray tell, does it bother you?!?" I snapped.

"Because he's our childhood bully! Or did you forget?!?"

"The keyword being 'childhood' Eddy. We aren't children anymore. Although you are certainly acting like one right now. Kevin has matured a lot over the years. You should learn something from him. Now if you'll excuse me, I must retire for the night. You know where the guest bedroom is. Goodnight Eddy." I walked upstairs to my room without even looking at him

"Once a bully is always a bully Sockhead!" Eddy shouted at me. I continued to ignore him.

I finally entered my room. As much as I hate not changing before sleeping, I laid in my bed anyway. I simply was too tired. My mind couldn't help but think about Kevin.

*Did he really tried to kiss me? Or was he teasing because I tried to kiss him?*

I sighed. Maybe Eddy is right, a bully is a bully no matter what. Just like how I will always be a dork no matter what. There is absolutely no reason why someone like him would like someone like myself.

*You should be ashamed of yourself Eddward!*

To even entertain the idea that Kevin even wants to be near me, let alone kiss me ...it's ridiculous!

But...our lips were so close. So...very...close. The image caused my lips to tingle all over again. I shook my head hard, a failed attempt to rid myself of the  scene. I flipped on my side towards the window.

Maybe a good night's rest will clear my head. My eyes slowly closed as I drifted off to sleep.

*******

*Oh no! I'm running late!*

I ran through the halls trying to get to my class. The bell ran over five minutes ago. My perfect attendance is now ruined. My voice was being carried throughout the now empty halls as I started to wheeze.

I finally saw the classroom doorway. I slowed down so I could catch my breath. Making sure that I looked presentable, I began to open the door. I was already prepared to apologize for my tardiness, hoping Mr. Peterson would excuse it.

Suddenly my vision went dark and someone's hand covered my mouth. My screams were muffled. Air escapes my lungs as I am slammed against the wall. I can't stop trembling.

*why am I always so weak?*

My sight is given back to me and I am now looking into Kevin's green eyes.

"K-kevin?!" I stuttered the words when he removed his hand for my mouth. I tried not to think about where his hand had been.

He crossed his arms. His eyes were so cold. It made me shudder.

*Did he find out about Eddy's scam?*

"And where the hell do you think YOU'RE going?" His boomed in the empty hallway.