Frail Hearts

0.2

"If you feel so empty,
so used up, so let down
If you feel so angry, so ripped off,
so stepped on
you're not the only one
refusing to back down.
You're not the only one,
so get up."

RIOT- Three Days Grace

🌹🌹🌹

They were back in the ballroom.

Ivan had to get his jacket, which was where he kept his car keys. He had left it on a chair at his and his family's table before seeing Udiya going outside and following her.

He had been watching her curiously for a while; usually the girls he brought to these things didn't look so bored. They would usually be clinging to him, trying to engage him in pointless conversations, or gossiping with or about other girls.

They had decided to leave the party to go to the pub downtown.

"And how do you intend to get in? I'm still underage, and you seem to be my age, so..." Udiya had said.

"Don't worry. I have connections."

Of course he did, Udiya thought. It didn't surprise her at all.

"Alright, we can go now," said Ivan once he reached Udiya. "Sorry it took so long. I ran into someone on my way there."

Udiya didn't think he actually expected her to say something back, so she kept quiet.

As they reached the door, a hand grabbed Udiya's arm, stopping her short in her tracks. She turned around and found none other than her mother. She inwardly groaned.

"Where have you been? I've been looking for you everywhere!" Esther exclaimed, unaware of the confused look Ivan was sending her.

"I've been outside a little. I wanted to get some fresh air," she jutted her chin up in, feeling a little daring.

She knew her mother wouldn't try to do or say something that would compromise her reputation. She'd keep everything to herself until they'd leave, like always.

"You reek of smoke," said Esther, disgusted. "Have you been smoking? What have I told you-"

"No, ma'am. It's me who smoked," intervened Ivan.

Udiya sent him a look, but he ignored her.

"And you are?" asked Esther, giving him an once-over. Her eyes bulged when she saw the tattoos on his arms. She really hated tattoos.

"Ivan, ma'am. And you must be Udiya's mother. It's a pleasure to meet you," Udiya could tell he said the last part in a sarcastic tone, but only hoped her mother wouldn't tell.

Udiya felt disgusted as she assisted at the scene. She knew her mother was rather... difficult, but he didn't need to flatter nor lie to her. Ivan sent her a wink when her mother wasn't looking, too busy sending daggers at her own daughter. Udiya could feel the judgement oozing from her.

"And where were you two going?" Esther scowled.

"We were just... you see... I-" Udiya racked her brain for an excuse. She gave up as she realized it would be pointless trying to lie to her mother; she wouldn't believe her anyway. "Where is father? I haven't seen him all night," she asked instead.

Her mother looked rather uncomfortable and shifted her weight from one foot to another.

"He had to catch up with a few friends, he hadn't seen them for quite some time, what with work and all that business travelling. Oh! There he is! Right with Robert and Liliana," Esther then lifted a hand and waved at the trio, trying to catch their attention.