The Price of being Pretentious

Chapter Twelve: Last Night

I took a deep breath before I proceeded towards the treehouse. I was having doubts if I could stay casual in front of Paris. Our previous conversations did not end well. I hope he got over it and he will act accordingly today.

It was a cold night and my hands were cold. I don't know if it was because of my nervousness or just the weather. I was surprised that the mini lights were not turned on. I took quick steps in the wooden stairs. What is going on? Don't tell me he didn't turn up tonight.

In seconds, I arrived at the porch catching my breath. Nervous. He was there leaning on the door frame. My heart was pounding like crazy. I don't know if it was because of the exhaustion or fear he didn't if he didn't come. Why would I fear that I won't see him again? I want to retreat. I want to go home. I can't do this. He stood straight when he noticed my presence. I turned around attempting to leave.

'Wait,' He began. 'You said this is our last– last meeting, right?' It seems he had some trouble breathing.

I looked down and nodded. Why do I look sad? I should be celebrating right now. I should be jumping in joy. But why? Why do I feel so lonely? A lump was forming in my throat.

'Then–,' He sighed. 'Then let's make it worthwhile. Come.' He gestured his head towards the door. 'I prepared something for you.' He smiled genuinely.

There was a brief silence.

I gasped. 'Why? What for?'

'A kind gesture of saying thank you–'

I took a deep breath, then looked down at my hands.

'Your eyes looked sad for someone saying thank you.' I was trying to be calm, but my voice trembled.

His smile changed to a frown. 'Hey, don't be like that.' He might have sensed the sadness in my voice. He walked towards me, then reached for my hands. 'Just think positive. You may not know what lies ahead, but still, face it with a smile. You don't know I might be there in your future.'

That's what I'm afraid of. The unknown future and a future without you. Stupid tears! Flowing and flowing like crazy. Why do I fear the future without this playboy? I should quit dreaming that he would end up with me. Since when did I start dreaming about that?! I know better than anyone that his eyes were set unto someone else. What a cruel fate I had! Always ended up liking someone who likes someone else. Why can it be me, huh?

'Hey, you're overthinking. It's not like we won't see each other again. Just–,' He lifted his manly hands, helping me wipe the tears, '–cry it out while I'm still here. But I prepared too much tonight. I don't want to spoil them.'

I laughed. 'Who told you to prepare too much? Who's fault is that?'

'You're right. Always right.'

'Damn right.' I sniffed.

He smirked. 'I guess I have successfully seduced my tutor. Seeing her cry tonight–

I snorted. 'Seduce? Did you plan to seduce me? For your information, I am not crying because of you.'

'Then why are you crying?'

'I–,' I glanced on the floor. 'I'm crying because–,' I shifted my gaze to his face, looking deep on his bay blue eyes. 'I'm happy.' I lied, but I managed to smile.

His brows furrowed. 'Now, you made me sad. Well, the operation in Venice was not yet done. So don't celebrate that much.'

'But when you and Venice will be an official couple, then we won't hang out like this again. I would be the happiest that I could rid of your annoying presence.' I said abruptly.