The Perfect Man

5

Now, I'm here sitting at the back of the car while watching the two of them talking, Mila and Ashton. What else could I say? They got lots of things to catch up with each other. And here I am looking at the window watching the rain pouring the streets. Yes I'm the third wheel. And I felt sick in my stomach. I looked at them: Ashton was laughing while Mila was pointing some of the places on the streets. Looks like there are lots of things to remember here. Am I getting jealous? Then something pierced my chest. Then I heard the sound of the thunder. I hate it. It makes me remember the things that happened in the past. How my father touched my neck and held my feet apart while the lights were closed and only lightning gives light to his face. How I can't scream because of the tape over my mouth. How the thunder shouts for me at that time.
My chest tightened and I tried not to scream. I gripped bag tightly and hug it closely. I should not let anyone see this side of me. It's too dark, too miserable. A past that can no longer be changed. I'm no longer that helpless little girl.
"Thanks for taking me home." Mila opened the car door and waved her hand while saying goodbye to us. "Take care of Pauline, Ash."
"No need to say that." Ashton smiled and waved goodbye.
"I know." Mila closed the door.
"How about you sit here beside me?" Ashton asked.
"Y-eah. Sure." I said. I quickly open the door and went to the front side. But he didn't start the car.
"I saw you holding you bag earlier whenever you hear the thunder." He said.
"Did I?" I asked. Trying to act innocent.
"Yes."
"I'm just afraid of the lighting." I lied.
"It's okay if you don't want to say it to me." Ashton said. He started the car.
There was nothing to say. We didn't talk until he dropped me off my house.
"Thanks and take care." I said to him as I leave the car. He drove away as soon as I closed the gate behind me.