He said he loved me... (completed)

Cloud Nine

Chapter 10: Cloud Nine

The way to my aunt’s house had never appeared so long, it seemed to be taking forever! Kate on my left and Gina on my right (who insisted she feels awkward if she doesn’t walk on the right-but personally I think she just wanted all of the drivers to get a clear view of her. That would explain the honking horns) I’d never felt so uncomfortable in my life! I felt like I was being pushed and pressurised by the both of them; squishing me into a tight invisible box.

I sighed. This was going to be a long day… but at least maybe I‘ll get to talk to Nico, I mean it’s what I’m going there for.  But what if he’s not single? What if I’ll never get out of the ‘friends zone’? My head was throbbing with all of these questions.

Kate must’ve noticed the sudden drop of my shoulders and gently and elbowed me in the ribs, and when I looked up she gave me a bright smile and two thumbs up. The rest of the journey was made in silence, when we went past the little stream I decided that I needed to spruce myself up a bit and at least try to look cheery or even happy. I gave my hair a light tug, making sure the plait was still neat and put some lip-balm on my lips, and forced a smile upon my face.

“Here goes nothing…” I muttered to myself and took a step forward, closely followed by Kate.

I felt so nervous! I didn’t even understand why, but being around Nico made me feel like I’m more important than I ever was… encouraged me to show him the real me! The smile on my face now was no longer strained, it felt natural and I felt happier by the second. I kept walking slowly climbing up the gentle hill, getting closer and closer to my destination: Nico.

I felt, rather than saw Gina stop and when I turned around I saw her glaring at the back of my head. I smiled. So there was some feelings in there… even if it may be hatred.

“What’s up?” I called because I was a couple of paces in front

“Nothing, keep walking… I’m coming” she replied.

“Kay.” I started to walk forward and Kate caught up with me and whispered

“She’s up to something… but at least you get a head-start if Nico’s out there” I smiled at the mention of his name.

As I made it up the hill I saw that yet again all of the kids were out there, and so was Nico! YAY! He was talking to a very large-looking man who I presumed was his uncle, but when I started to walk towards my aunt’s gate and past him, he looked up and actually smirked! His smile was so cheeky and boy-ish that I couldn’t resist the temptation and smiled back.

Unfortunately his uncle must’ve noticed me smile at him and instantly his face lit up like a Christmas tree!

“Hello, I believe we haven’t been introduced yet… I’m Mark, Nico’s uncle” he held out his arm

“Hiya, I’m Monika.” I shook his hand and smiled politely, praying that I wouldn’t do something embarrassing

“This is my cousin Kate… and that’s Gina.” I added when I saw Gina puff up the little hill

seriously?! It wasn’t even that steep! Kate did an awkward half-wave and smiled at Mark, I started to feel kind of stupid, standing there all made up in a pink flouncy dress, so I gave my final smile and started to walk away, Kate following close behind.

I was silently thanking God for letting me appear normal for once and not doing something really embarrassing when I twisted my ankle in my wedge-heels. I blushed and silently cursed myself, hoping that no one saw. Idiot! Idiot! Stupid… I was cursing myself and jumped slightly when Nico called out

“Coming out later?”

OMG! He just asked me out! Well not really… but he asked me to come outside! Oh my! Arghhh! Ok, ok. Keep calm… play it cool… “Uh, yeah. Sure. See you later…” I flashed him a bright smile and slowly turned and tried to do the ‘sexy’ walk, but I nearly tripped and so walked away like any normal person, yet again cringing.

As soon as the gate was shut I leaned on it and sighed a dreamy sigh

“oh… my… gosh!” I whispered, still quiet unaware of what just happened and then it hit me! He cares! He noticed me! Wohooo! I screamed out loud and made Kate jump. “Oh Lord! This did just happen didn’t it? ‘coz I reckon I’m dreaming!” Kate smiled at me reassuringly, and nodded. I felt so happy I thought I was on cloud 9, If such a place existed! I was sooooo happy… I don’t think anything could have ruined this moment… yeah, well, think again…