The Betrayal Within

Chapter Thirty-One (Part One)

Song of the Chapter: Face Down by The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus

Recap (Jasmine's POV):

Francisco opened his present from Adam and saw pamphlets of sex. Then, there was the exact cologne he gave Adam.

"Uh--"

"Don't say anything," Adam interrupted. "You're welcome."

Overall, it was one of the best Christmas I had.

I had a guy that cares about me, a best friend that's there for me, and an Adam that cheers me up.

What can go wrong?

Six days later... (New Year's Eve)

Jasmine's POV

New Year's is one of the most exciting holidays to date because everyone can celebrate it. Either people stay up all night watching the ball drop, going to parties and get drunk off their asses, or being like Paulene and actually going to work.

She went overseas to England for an undercover mission, but why now? Why can't she do it after the holidays?
My phone buzzed to the sound of my ring tone and vibration.

"Look at that, it's the friend that goes to England without me," I told Paulene.

"Jaz, you know I can't tell you anything until the last minute," she said. "Rules are rules."

I pouted. "Maybe I wanted to go."

"I'm sorry. Look, I have to go. I'll text you." She hanged up without me saying goodbye.

It's very quiet at the apartment. I hate being alone without asking.

What's Francisco and Adam up to?

I called Francisco first, but he didn't answer. Then I called Adam, but he didn't answer as well.

Is everyone avoiding me?

I hear another buzz on my phone and it was Adam.

Sorry, I'm in class, he texted. If you're looking for Francisco, he's at home with a stomach ache. Don't see him, he won't open the door because it's that bad.

Aw, he's sick?

Maybe that's why he didn't respond to my calls and texts since yesterday.

A new message popped up and it was Francisco.

Baby, I'm sorry that I wasn't responding. I guess I ate something bad. How about I make it up to you? A New Year's Eve dinner at a new restaurant that opened up.

How can someone be feeling better that quick? I'm not complaining though.

Sure, I texted him. Are you sure you'll be fine? Adam told me that you can't even open the door to the apartment.

Well, I'm feeling better, he wrote. I sort of lied because I have a very special surprise for you.

You know how much I love surprises, I texted back. So, I guess I'll see you then.

Around seven, I'll pick you up, he said. Now, I'm going to puke some more. Love you.

Love you too.

Now what am I going to do for the next nine hours?

***

I told myself that I'll be very productive.