No Way Out

Chapter 7 - Subway Games

Chapter 7

As the words left my lips, my chest began to tighten, afraid of if rejection was his answer. I started to think this was a really bad idea and what if he was like Tyler.

And that’s when I mentally slapped myself and just got a move on with it. I actually scrunched up my eyes, shutting them tightly and already imagining the worst-case scenarios.

Then I felt strong arms envelope my petite frame and before I even grasp what is going on, I was pulled into Sebastian’s arms and into a tight warm hug. I was rigid from the sudden contact, not being use to hugs and friendly sorts of things. Then I took a deep breath, breathing in his delightful mixed scent and closed my eyes before relaxing in his arms, letting my shoulders drop and my hands to back to hug him back.

He lowered his head and I felt his hot breath on my ear as he whispered, “Thanks a lot, Lee. I owe you one.”

His voice sent tingles down my spine and I forced myself to contain the shiver that was at the verge of traveling through my body. Since being pressed so close and tightly to Sebastian, he’d feel it immediately and I’d be embarrassed like hell.

Relief sunk through me as I realized that he thanked me, meaning that he accepted my offer. A sigh escaped my lips and my eyes widened at what I just did.

I was getting too comfortable with a guy I just met and barely knew. That’s the same as how Tyler and I started, I really don’t want a repeat. Especially not like the one after we broke up… Just merely thinking about it makes me quiver in fear.

Sebastian let go and instantly I felt weird not hugging and sharing with him his warmth anymore. The cold wind from the streets of Hong Kong circulated the building stairs and rushed past me, making me feel even colder.  

I wrapped my arms around my body, trying to gain the warmth that was once there.

“It’s okay, Sebb,” I smiled, looking up at him with his new nickname that I made for him.

“Let’s go, it’s getting late and Mrs. Jenkins is long gone. She told me to lock up since she’s off to some book club,” Sebb said, picking up his jacket that I laid beside me and shrugging it on.

I nodded, standing up and straightening my blazer, blouse and skirt. I put on the hat that was on the table and fixed the scarf around my neck.

“Where do you want to go?” I asked, not sure what a normal person ate nowadays. I lived on take-out, congee and alcohol. Even as anti-social and odd as I am, I know that is not what your average student eats on a daily basis.

“Well, you’re paying so shouldn’t you lead the way?” He asked chuckling, “I’m just a stray you’re taking in for the night.”

We started walking out of the café while he locked up.

“Aww… don’t call yourself that, Sebby,” I said laughing. I caught myself, realizing for the first time since Tyler, I’m letting loose. I’m just being plain old Leslie Mai, without a worry and when everything was still good.

I quite liked that.

Maybe this is a sign from whatever it is out there since I don’t believe in religions and Gods.

Maybe, just maybe, it’s telling me it’s time.

It’s time to move on and just let loose.

I smiled at the thought of that and Sebb’s melodic laughter brought me back to reality.

“What?” I asked looking at him, confusion pooling in my eyes and painted on my face.

“You were so dazed just now, I was saying that Sebby is such a weird name. Then I stopped myself from babbling on when I realized you had this dreamy look in your eyes. It was really peaceful, something I don’t see often in you.”