Spy School Fanfic

Chapter 5

"That's great Ben. I'm proud of you." Erica said flatly. That wasn't quite the don't leave me I love you speech I was waiting for.

I continued. "However, as much as I try to not like you, I just can't. I tried distracting myself with Zoe, but my mind still wandered to you. I tell myself, I'm not chopped liver. Turns out, I still am—."

"Ben—." Erica interrupted.

"—Let me me finish. I'm really sorry for kissing Zoe. I understand how stupid I seem, liking you even though you'll never do the same way." I said pouring out my feelings.

"Ben, I've told you before, relationships are not something you have available when you're in the spy game." She stated blatantly.

"I know, I'm not going to force you to do something you don't want to. Only you can do that." I teased. Then I got up and threw my arms around her. I felt her body tense up. She stiffly raised her arms. Don't tear off my limbs. Please, I like my arms. Erica then did something that surprised me. She hugged me back. I held her tighter to me. The smell of lilacs and gunpowder filled me. She pulled away embarrassed.

"The only reason why I did that was because I technically still owe you a hug. Ben, if you tell anyone what I just did, I'll—."

"I know, kill me." I've heard that phrase too many times to count.

"Good. I forgive you then."

I was surprised. "That fast?" I said in disbelief.

"I thought you came here to apologize. Diplomatically speaking, wasn't your goal to make me forgive you?" She pointed out and raised an eyebrow.

"Er, yes, but man, that was quick!" I exclaimed with a goofy smile.

"Well, I haven't forgiven you entirely. But, if I didn't say I did, you'd stay here all night. Go to sleep now."

"Can I have another hug?" I asked.

"Don't push your luck Ripley." She warned.

"Alright, you better sleep too. Goodnight." I told her and closed the door behind me." I went to sleep with a smile that night, quite happy with myself. The next morning at breakfast—frozen waffles—, I chose to sit next to Mike.

"Children, you will be leaving next morning." Catherine said with a somewhat sad smile. This surprised me. I knew it was going to happen, just not this soon.

"Are you coming with us, Mom?" Asked Erica even though all of us wanted to know. Especially Alexander, as he eagerly awaited Catherine's answer.

"I—probably will not, unfortunately." Catherine replied looking down.

"Why?" asked Erica and Alexander at the same time.

She put her hand on Erica's shoulder. "Oh, darling, you know I have work. I'm a spy too. Surely you're used to it by now." Catherine said kindheartedly.

"Yeah. Of course." Erica said with a hint of bitterness as she suddenly got interested with a bird outside the window. I could tell she was still sad hearing the news. However, she didn't display any emotion on her face. She had just begin bonding with her parents, and now had to leave again.

"Well," said Orion breaking the silence and awkwardness, "How about we head out for lunch later today?"

"That sounds great!" Squealed Zoe. "I've always wanted to try an expensive French meal overlooking the city!"

"Yeah, we haven't even had time to enjoy a nice meal yet. And we're like—, in Europe!" Chimed Mike.

A wide grin appeared on Catherine's face. "And that haberdasher I'd promised! I can't believe I forgot!" She exclaimed. "You boys look like you need a haircut as well." I subconsciously touched my hair. It was indeed getting long. I mean, with all going on, a haircut was the last thing on my mind.

"It's settled then. Everything's on me." Orion said.

"Orion, that won't be necessary. You've done plenty for us already." Catherine quickly said graciously.

"No, no, I'm happy with all the company you guys have offered to me. Besides, you are the guests after all. Consider it my goodbye treat if you will." He smiled.

"Are you sure—" Catherine started hesitantly.

"Yes, I insist. Don't worry, I can definitely afford it." Orion said with a wink. "And no helicopter this time. Let's take the limo, shall we?"