The Key to my Heart

Chapter 33: Brutal Realities (Stina's P.O.V.)

Sorry it's so blurry. My camera quality is terrible. Does anyone else think Tammy Boi has a thing for cats?

I had been with Dex for almost a month. That sounds like a good time to break things up, right? I thought so. Which was why today, Valentine's day, was going to be the best day of my life.

Dex and I were on the same bus. Out was a fact both of us had ignored for years, until now, when sitting in the same seat with each other was absolutely necessary. I shuddered. Only a few more hours until I'd be rid of that rodent-faced little brat.

"Hello, Stina," Dex said in a voice sweeter than sugar.

"Hello, Dex," I answered, trying to match his tone.

He must've been getting smarter, because he said, "You sound excited."

I tried for a smile, but it came out more like a smirk. "I am. Today is Valentine's day, you know."

"Of course," Dex agreed. "And um... I got a little something for you."

He handed me the standard heart-shaped box of assorted chocolates. I accepted and greedily popped one in my mouth. I glanced at Dex, who was staring at me with this watery smile on his face. I resisted the urge to throw up that delicious chocolate and instead said calmly, "But Dex, why would you do all this for me?"

He laughed a watery laugh that matched th smile he had been wearing. "You're my- oh, gosh, I forgot to ask, didn't I?" He looked at me, expecting an answer. I ate another chocolate. "Well..." Dex continued, "Do you want to be my Valentine?"

This was it! I was finally getting rid of him! I released the laughter I had been forced to contain for all too long. Dex, however, didn't seem to find it funny, as he stared at me with his eyes narrowed, more from confusion than anger.

"Never in a million years, Dizznee," I sneered.

"W-what?" The expression in Dex's eyes was priceless.

"Sorry, I said that wrong," I said quickly, playing it out. "I should've said-" I paused for dramatics. "Never in eternity."

Dex jumped back, pressing himself against the wall of the bus, heartbreak etched in his face. He reached out, as expected, and snatched back the box of chocolates. Good thing I ate my favorites first.

Dex and I had to spend the rest of the fifteen minute bus ride together. We sat on opposite sides of the seat, ignoring each other, all the way to school. Dex looked like he wanted to cry, or smash a window, or both, but I grinned.

Just like the old days.

Short "chapter", yes, I need to go now so I can start writing the next one to make up for this. (Longer + Sotam)