[EN] Unexpected Eletricity (an Apex Story)

Chapter 18

Since I learned the cancellation of the party at Elliott's bar, I planned a more intimate party at the complex to celebrate Octavio's birthday. I got some help from Elliott, Ajay and Renee. I chose to throw a costume party, due to the Halloween season, which will be Pokemon themed (1), as we often watch this anime together. Admittedly, not everyone was excited to dress up as cute little creatures, but I managed to convince all of them. Even Mr. Nox, who at first gave me a categorical no, reconsidered his decision, and promised to make an effort. While the others prepared the common room for the festivities, I spent the day with him in town so that he would not suspect a thing. We visited a few haunted houses and walked on the streets decorated with pumpkins, spiderwebs, and other spooky decorations.

We are now back at the complex. Our footsteps echo against the floor on the hallway, and then someone turn on the lights in the common room to reveal all the legends, emerging from their hiding places, and shouting:

''SURPRISE!''

I look satisfied at the sight of Octavio, his mouth open, completely astonished by the situation. A big smile spreads over his face and I see his eyes shine, which makes me melt inside. There are colorful garlands on the walls, while tons of balloons hang around everywhere. He laughs as Elliott, disguised as Jigglypuff, walks up to him, singing happy birthday to the tune of the song of the character he represents (2). Crypto, watching the scene, rolls his eyes, muttering something in Korean.

''Def' the most terrifying thing I have ever seen in my life, amigo. 'Love that.''

''I know right, it's terrifying how adorable I am. People keep tellin' me this.''

"No Elliott, that's just terrifying", Renee said.

Octavio turns to me cheerfully.

''Do you like it?'', I asked him.

''If I like it? It's amazing Naty! Did-ja organize all of this?''

''I had ze idea, but Elliott, Renee and Ajay helped me a lot!''

Octavio's gaze falls furtively on Ajay, who gives him a slight smile. Octavio has still not wanted to speak to her again since their confrontation. However, he admitted to me that he kind of overreacted, and that since things settled with me, he was considering the idea of ​​coming to terms with her. Even if he tries to hide it, I know that deep down he still feels hurt and betrayed, though. For the moment, he is content to lower his eyes and says:

''Muchas gracias everyone. It touches me a lot.''

''Friends, you must put up your costumes too!'', exclaimed a Pathfinder disguised as Mr. Mime and hopping with enthusiasm.

I smile at my robotic friend before grabbing Octavio by the hand and leading him to my room. As I walk away, I hear the others bickering. Routine.

''Let me stop you right here. Mimes don't talk, tin can!''

"Well, that mime costume would have been perfect for you, old man", Crypto retorts defiantly.

I hear Elliott stammer something, before closing the door to my room behind us. I sigh, then smile.

''I love my new family.''

''Me too... Some people more than others'', he said, giving me a suggestive look.

I got lost in my thoughts for a moment, staring at his face. Octavio and his soft full lips that I want to feel against mine. Octavio and his jaw that I want to trace with my fingers. Octavio and his black hair that I want to mess up. I clear my throat and point to the two costumes on my bed. The first is a white faux fur one-piece and a bunny ears headband, while the second is a purple jumpsuit with a hood adorned with spikes and a plastic lightning to place on the forehead.