Telepathic

Chapter 2: Focus

I get swept with the masses of teens flooding out of the school. Breathing in sync with my steps, I make my way towards my bicycle. I examine the  rusted mint green contrasting the sprinkles of dirt. The dark leather handles fits my hands precisely and I swing my leg over the patched seat to its peddle. Wind slaps my face and weaves through my hair as I work the peddles. I ride down a rarely used path to my favourite hiding place. Trees peek over the final hill and sweet pine scent float in the air. I soak in the sun, finally at peace.

Sitting under a strong pine tree, I gaze up at the clouds. Then I turn my focus to the gentle currents of a nearby river. I don't have to worry about the voices slipping into my consciousness, there is just me and my hideaway. I slip away, daydreaming about nothing.

But, the solitude doesn't last much longer than a wavering twenty or so minutes. The sharp sound of two more bicycles pedalling down the hill wakes me up. It isn't usual for someone to come here, not many people know about this spot. I position myself behind the tree so the strangers can't see me. Intrigued, I keep a close eye on them as they find a spot next to the river. Two boys, maybe a year older than me. They appear to be deep in conversation, something interesting by their expressions.

Curiosity overwhelms me. I decide to practice tuning into a specific strand of thought. I target the boy facing me, he seems to be directing the conversation. I stare into his eyes and concentrate on pulling at his consciousness.
How do I tell him? Will he understand? He's gonna think I'm crazy...
My excitement breaks the connection. I'm improving! But, when I reflect on what I heard, I become intoxicated. I realize things I hadn't at first, like how the boy's shoulders are tense and his hands fidgeting. What could he possibly be trying to say?

I tune into his thoughts again, luring them through my head.
He doesn't believe me, I need to prove it. But how? I'm still not very good.. Something small like a leaf, that I can manage.
I don't realize I've stopped listening. I gaze upon the boy in astonishment. His friend slowly backs away, I don't need to read his mind to know he's scared. But, surprisingly I don't back away I feel drawn to him. I kneel forwards to get a better look at the boy, but snap a twig under my knee. I gape, frozen, staring at the boy who's eyes meet mine. He looks absolutely terrified. I don't think, just run.