The Exception

Chapter 70: Not Everyone Can Come Out Of This Happy

After a whole afternoon's work, I headed towards the Café. I decided not to tell Keith about my decision, because I could see he was still carrying a burden of his own. The whole afternoon was filled with stories of his grandmother, and I could see he loved talking about her. However, now and then he fell silent, and I decided not to push.

Now as I walked into the cafeteria, my heart started beating faster again. I was scared, but I knew what I had to do. Despite everything Evan had done, it was not fair on my side to lead him on. I knew he was really hoping I'd give him a second chance. And no matter how much a part of me wanted it, the more time I spent way from him made me realize how foolish that would be. He was smooth. He wasn't afraid to go after what he wanted, but he was also not afraid to hurt people in order to do so. And unless he gave clear and solid proof that he would change, nothing could happen between us.

Besides, it seemed that my heart was already taken. I swallowed as I heard music, and Evan's voice. He was already on stage, singing a song. I caught sight of Ellie who waved at me, and I made my way towards her. I spotted a cute guy sitting next to her, and realized this must be the surfer.

"Hey Ellie," I gave her a hug and took a seat.

"Hey, this is Brett, the surfer guy I was talking about,"

The guy grinned. "That's all good and well, but what must I call your friend?"

Ellie blushed, and I laughed. "Agnus, the sidekick..." I responded.

Ellie laughed at this and Brett grinned. "Nice to meet you..."

I nodded and looked up at Evan on stage. He had caught sight of me and grinned, but carried on singing.

"So, Brett, are you from around here?" I asked.

Brett nodded, "Been around for a while, but mostly spent my time either at school or at the beach. Which made me really lucky." Brett grinned at Ellie, and she was beaming back. I was relieved. From first impression, he does seem like a nice guy. However, if he hurt her, I'd be sure to come after him with  shotgun and  shovel. Or so I'd joke....maybe.

Soon the song ended, and Evan jumped off the stage.

"What's up sea-boy?" Evan asked Brett who only shook his head.

"Nothing much," Brett responded, "You?"

"Trying to get the girl," Evan turned his attention on me and smirked. "Hey, princess, was really hoping to see you here."

"Well, it's good to be here, because we really need to talk again," I said and started walking to another table. I sat down and Evan followed through.

"Reconsidering getting back together?" Evan asked hopefully, and I clenched my jaw. Why did this feel even worse than my original break-up?

I guess...it was because originally there still was a certain element of hope. Now...not so much.

"Evan," I started, but swallowed. "Nothing can happen between us."

Evan frowned. "I don't understand."

I sighed and grabbed my hands, considering they were trembling. "I'm sorry. I'm so sorry, but this can't work between us."

"Why ever not?" Evan asked.

"Because it can't..."

"Just..."

"No," I responded before he could carry on. I was scared that he might find some way to twist and change my mind. He still had some effect on me. I can't just erase all the moments shared with him.

"I don't accept your no..."

"Well, you have to, ok?" I said. "It's my choice."

"I'm not giving up..."

"Evan!" I called out exaspurated. "You're wasting your effort. And just bringing more pain. It's best just to move on."

"I won't..."

"You should..."

I so badly wanted to tell him that I loved someone else. However, if I did, it would not take too long for him to figure out it was Keith. And I did not want to know what he might do then. My heart broke as Evan tapped the table. He was wearing his poker face, but I'm sure I hurt him now.

Funny, how much it hurt as much to reject him again. I don't know how much more if it I could take. But my mind was made.

"So you came here with no intention or even consideration for a second-chance? How selfish can you be?" Evan spoke softly before he stormed out of the cafeteria. I rubbed my eyes as they grew glossy.

I was most certainly not expecting THAT response.