Deeper Relations

Chapter 5: The Denial

(A week later) A week earlier, the thought of Family Dinner would have almost sent you to the brinks of hell. Especially given the events that took place right after the last one. But, to your relief, you were completely at peace this time.

With your heart as calm as the still waters, you felt like yourself once again for the past week. The version of yourself before his return, that was. Yes, you did not even dare mention his name, even in your heart. With your heart devoid of him, the chances of seeing him in public also grew almost to NIL the past week. Not even a happy coincidence. For you were not inclined to. Plus, with Marcus around, a problem that was as unnecessary as that was not in your list of priorities.

Perhaps because of the history of friendship, Marcus did not treat you as he treated other girls in relationship. You were dear to him, you saw in his eyes. You were something so precious he safeguarded with all his might. The hours spent together grew more often, yet it was spent no differently as before. Except for the occasional loving glances shared in secret, or even the sweet kisses stolen every now and then between sips of coffee and library study sessions. During all that time, Marcus made you feel safe. Excitement? Not really. Passion? Certainly not. But safety? Absolutely.

"Oh! They're here!"

Lena Summers rushed to the door upon hearing the doorbell ring. You assumed it was Jackie and the family. Setting the table with Maggie, you took deep breaths, mentally preparing yourself with enough peace to face him, and to face whatever nonsense he will bring up this time, especially when he catches you alone. Except this time, you were not going to break down. For your heart was safe.

Looking up, you wore your brightest smile to welcome the Jacksons, only to have your eyebrows slightly furrow with confusion upon seeing him. Contrary to your expectations, Freddie Jackson appeared nowhere near conflicted nor sarcastic. He was clean and sober much more than you've ever seen him before in your life. Dressed neatly, his eyes was distinctly clearer, and more beautiful than ever. Certainly different from your previous memory of him. And the way he greeted you, it was evident he had remorse hidden in his eyes, silently begging you to forgive him.

You could not figure him out. Even during dinner, you could not help but wonder what had changed Freddie. He seemed more in control. Of his actions, and of his emotions. You could honestly say you blinked with surprise more than a dozen times, wondering if this was actually a dream.

"Could you pass the gravy please, Y/N?"

Freddie's voice woke you from your thoughts. You blinked once again for a few seconds, confused by his politeness.


"Yeah...uh sure" you struggled, handing him the gravy boat, to which he smiled.


"Thank you..." he replied, in a deep tone.

Nodding, you wanted to look away. Except you were tempted to stare. All the while your sisters and mother had a conversation of their own without your slightest attention.

"...Don't know...let me ask him..." Jackie said, looking over to her husband, "Freddie, babe...you at home tomorrow night?"


"Of course, babe..." He answered obediently, with the same smile.

"Y/N..." You looked up from your plate as your sister addressed you, "Cinema tomorrow, you coming right?" She asked, whilst Maggie and your mother looked at you excitedly. Opening your mouth, you hesitated to answer.

"No, thanks" you said, "I...uh have plans"

Which was certainly an answer that made your family raise their eyebrows.