Living in the past[Rewriting, on hold]

Chapter 6 : The distance between us

The three of us stood outside Amber's mansion. The light were on and lights shone out through the windows. Classical music could be heard from the outside, and the number of people there couldn't be counted. To see three kids - one who's eye had dried blood, another all roughed up and one who looked seemingly normal - like that standing outside the mansion which currently held a posh and huge party must have been quite a sight.

I took a deep breath, and followed Amber in. We navigated our way past the crowd whispering and murmuring to each other.

"What are these brats doing here?"

"They look so low class!"

Hey! I know I'm poor and all, but I can hear you clearly! At least make an effort to whisper!

I let out a mini scream in my head.

"Isn't that the daughter of Mr Burke?"

Yes, she is! Please get back to your fancy wine and cakes. At this rate, I'll break down from the stress!

After what seemed like an eternity, we found our way to where Amber's mother was. Her father was busy entertaining another well-dressed man, which meant that for now we only have to deal with Amber's mother. However, her reaction had shocked me.

"Why did you let yourself get kidnapped?! Did you know how worried I was? Did you know that this party was almost a failure thanks to your little stunt?!"

All Amber did was to lower her head.

Why? It's my fault!

"Did you know how important this day was! All the big companies would be here today! And you...!" She seemed more agitated each time.

Suddenly, she raised her hand....

I stepped in front of Amber at the last minute and took the ear-deafening slap.

Several gasps could be heard before silence fell over the room, with all eyes trained on us.

I resisted the urge to draw back. My cheek still stinging, I stood up straight and looked directly into Mrs Burke's eyes, then bowed down.

"My deepest apologies, Mrs Burke. It was my fault that Amber got kidnapped. Please do not blame it on her, but on me. She is innocent. I was the one who dragged her in."

My head remained low. The expression she had on her face before I bowed down was that one of someone who had accidentally killed the wrong person, and I had felt bad for her, but I couldn't stand watching Amber take the blame any longer.

"Sophie!" Amber tried to stop me, but I had stopped her instead.

"It was my carelessness that got Amber kidnapped. If you would like, punish me as you deem fit. I am willing to bear the consequences."

I was honestly, and truly remorseful.

The lady was speechless as she searched for words to say.

"Hahahaha!" Laughter burst out from behind her.

Taken aback by this reaction, I looked up. It was... Mr Burke!

"You have found yourself an interesting friend, Amber. On account that you have gotten Amber back safe and sound, I will let you kids off!" He ruffled both of our heads roughly.

Then he gave a knowing smile. I took it as a sign to 'GTFO'.

I nodded my head, and took a glance at Amber. She mouthed the word 'sorry', but I shook my head and forced a grin. I nudged Luke, and walked out of the mansion and into the night.