AGAIN

Chapter Twelve

(Flashback continued...)

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-=Dale’s POV=-

“Thank you again. You don’t know how much I appreciate this.”

Melinda pulled me into a tight hug and I flushed. It wasn’t really a big deal for me but she made me feel like I’d done something heroic.

It was Friday when the doctor finally allowed her to go home. I offered her a ride home since I didn’t want her to commute. It would be tiring for her, especially because of her condition. When I visited her last Tuesday, she told me a little about her condition and as I had expected, she was far from getting better.

“It’s okay.” I said shyly, hugging her back. I caught Red watching us from the kitchen but he looked away immediately. He seemed disturbed by the closeness Melinda and I shared, even though we’d only known each other for three days.

She released me and smiled, her blue orbs twinkling in delight. “Can I ask you another favor?” She whispered like she was about to tell a secret.

“Sure. What is it?” I asked. She glanced at her son, perhaps afraid that he would hear our conversation.

She turned her gaze back on me. “We can’t talk here. Can I get your number so I can call you tomorrow?” She murmured before sitting down on the couch and reaching out for her phone from the table. “Here.” Still smiling, she handed over the device and I accepted it.

I immediately punched my digits on her phone and gave it back to her.

“Thank you.” She said and I nodded.

“I want to stay but I really have to go.” I told her, deciding that it was time for me to leave. Max asked me to come with her to a party and I couldn’t say no. She reminded me about the stupid rules I made and I didn’t want to break them. It would cost me my collection, favorite movies, and of course, Herbie.

“It’s fine. I just thought you’d stay for dinner.” Melinda said, frowning a little and it almost changed my mind. “But really, you can go. It’s fine. It’s Friday night, I know young people wouldn’t want to miss fun tonight.” A smile grew back on her face.

Fun. I have a feeling that won’t be the theme tonight.

Waving goodbye, I headed slowly towards the door. I looked around, trying to find a glimpse of Red but he wasn’t around, maybe he’s in the bathroom. I wanted to wait for him to say goodbye but I knew Max was already waiting for me, so I chose to leave their apartment straightaway.

When I reached Herbie, my phone started ringing. I took it out from my bag and read the screen. It was Max.

“Uhm, hi, Max.” I said, pressing the phone on my ear.

“Hey, where are you? We have to go now. I’m at the dorm with Carly and Tasha. You’re not backing out, are you?” I could hear voices laughing at the background.

“No-- Actually, I’m on my way there.” I informed her, unconsciously biting my knuckles. It already made me anxious just thinking about attending another party. I remembered last time when I got myself humiliated and it brought me phobia.

Max seemed to have read my thoughts. “Don’t worry, Dale. It’s only a party at a fraternity house. Everything will be alright.” She assured me but it worsened my fear.

“What? A frat house? Oh, no, no, no. Isn’t that place dangerous?” I squeaked as my body started to tense up. I leaned on my car and swallowed a big amount of air.