I Am Not Your Maid! (On Hold)

Chapter 14 - Crossing the Line

Chapter 14

Crossing the Line

Monday morning came too soon.

“I’m not ready, I’m not ready, I’m not ready,” I chanted as I trotted down the stairs, backpack slung over my shoulder, and ran to the front door.

“Yuri-chan, don’t forget your lunch!”

I turned to my smiling mother and accepted the lunch bag that she handed out to me. 

“Have a good day,” she said in a singsong voice.

Yeah, she was still really happy.

But then, she had several good reasons to be happy.  She thought my boss was wonderful, she got my hours reduced, and she introduced me to the boy she fantasized about having as a son-in-law.

Yes, the stars were certainly aligning in her favour.  One after the other, falling into place like the pieces of a puzzle, perfectly fitting together and forming the beautiful picture she had in mind.

Wish I could say the same for myself.

I was greeted by sunshine as I hurried out the front door, just barely managing to catch the bus before it could pull away from the stop.

My morning began as it usually did.  I hit the books in the library before classes started, and when it was time to go to first period, I walked out of the library and smack into Dash’s chest.

Just shoot me now.

“You really need to watch where you’re going.”

His tone seemed different than usual.  I didn’t know what to make of it.  It sounded less arrogant, but still cocky as ever.  Perhaps more humoured would be a better description?

Nevertheless, I didn’t bother to raise my eyes, but kept them trained on his collarbone.

“Sorry.”  Smart-ass.

At least this time I didn’t drop my books.  With this to my advantage, I just skirted around him and continued walking.

“Hey,” Dash called after me.

I picked up my pace, but since his legs were so much longer than mine, he was able to catch up pretty quick.

“You know, I was really enjoying my life without you butting into the picture.”

Annoyance was really giving my confidence a boost.

That, and I didn’t want to be late for class.

“Aw come on now, you don’t mean that.  Admit it, you like how I enhance the picture when I’m with you.”

I began to sputter before I snapped my mouth shut.

“See?  Admit it—you love it.”

“I think I’m going to vomit.”

He just laughed.  “You’re hilarious!  I think I’ll keep you around.”

I stopped and gawked at him.  You cannot be serious?

He turned and grinned at me from a few feet ahead.  “Aw, come on.  You can stare at me later.  You don’t want to be late for class, do you?”

“Th-Th-That—”

Just stop it, you idiot!

I took my advice and snapped my mouth shut before more stuttering fell out.

This just wasn’t my morning.

I took a deep breath and forced my feet to carry me forward.  Once I caught up to him, he fell into step with me.