Parallel Differences DRAFT

Chapter 14: The Five Month Case

Caine Portman
Hospital Lobby

I sat in the lounge on a black, cushioned couch and quietly space out to myself.

Why do I keep seeing shadows? It has to be an ability that hasn't manifested yet, but I'm fricken creeped out by them.

"Caine!"

I slingshot back into reality. Addeline walks over to me and I notice an Asian girl trailing behind Addeline.

"About time you visit again."

The girl kept holding onto Addeline's jacket-sleeve. The way she hides behind Addeline allows me to assume that she is afraid of someone.

Wait. Is she scared of me? People do tell me that I look threatening.

"Yeah sorry I couldn't come earlier. I had a meeting at the student council."

I lean forward on the couch.

"So who is your new friend?"

Addeline turns around and gently pushes the girl next to her.

"This is my friend I was talking about that gave me the nickname Adds."

The girl blushes.

Her confidence level seems very low. I wonder how Addeline befriended her since they're both opposites.

I extend my hand for a handshake.

"Nice to meet you. My name is Caine and yes I call my friend Adds because she loves it."

The girl chooses to stay silent and refuses to shake my hand.

I'm not contagious, yeesh.

"My name is Kieu. Nice to meet you."

Addeline crosses her arm.

"Caine no one wants to touch you. So you can put away your hand."

Addeline turns to hug Kieu.

"And only Kieu can call me Adds, she makes it sound adorable!"

At least Adds made friends with someone in the hospital. I remember all she wanted to do at the beginning was to leave as soon as possible.

"Oi Addeline!"

I look over at the hospital entry and I see Edward approaching us.

Wow. This is the first time I have seen Edward in casual clothes.

"Addeline! How have you been? We missed you being in the student council."

Addeline puts her hand on her waist.

"I haven't even attended a meeting yet, what's there to miss about me?"

Edward awkwardly rubs his neck and laughs.

"Come on, don't be like that. Surely you've been to one meeting?"

Addeline raises an eyebrow.

"Or not. Anyways! I come bearing gifts."

Edward hands Addeline chocolate.

"Don't worry Addeline, we're really trying to nail down the culprit of who attacked you."

Addeline thanks Edward for the gift and then turns around to face Kieu.

I realise Kieu has been awfully quiet. I almost forgot she was standing next to Addeline.