Palindrome

Fifty-One

Chapter 51

Paxton

Aarohi.

Lights fade all around me, voices trying to console me through the excruciating pain. At least I'm no longer quivering uncontrollably. My breathing feels ragged, each second air feels pumped out of my lungs rather than in. Even my skin hurts, my entire body a living bruise. The doctor warned me that this was a likely symptom that could take place as my condition worsened.

But I thought I had more time.

I thought we had more time.

Does she hate me now?

For leading her on, for letting her think that I would always be there for her. I would hate me if I were her. There's no way she'd ever like me much less love me after what I did.

Selfish, that's what I was.

I just wanted her for myself. I wanted to be her hero longer, her unwavering star in the dark, cold night. Seeing myself in Aarohi's eyes is what makes the dosages bearable. In some ways, she saved me.

Just like she did a year ago.

"Hey, Paxton!"

Putting on a smile, I cease bouncing on the ball of my feet to face Eddie. He arches an eyebrow in question when he sees my face.

"Everything alright?"

No.

Nodding I wave him off. "Yeah, just anxious about results."

Eddie rolls his startling blue eyes, running a hand through the curly brown mess that is his hair. "It's only the second day, we'll find out tomorrow morning. Why worry now yeah?"

"Yeah," I echo in agreement.

Shoving my hands into my jeans pockets I follow Eddie into the convention center where they're holding a concert this year. I listen as he drowns on about our recent Lakers game. Occasionally, I'll add the most random shit to let him think I'm attentively paying attention. And well, since it's Eddie that's all it really takes for him to notice that nothing is out of the ordinary.

Which I guess isn't the best thing.

The two of us merge with the crowds. I'm glad we do, usually, in school, everyone can't get enough of us. Look, it's Eddie and Paxton, the junior varsity lacrosse and basketball captain. While the former has a reputation of flirting with every girl within sight, the latter just had his heartbroken in front of the entire school.

So yes, I'd say Eddie and I are very much alike.

Best friends since we were ten and yet Savannah knows more about me.

Savannah.

"Hey, Ed!"

Speak of the devil.

"Sav," Eddie cries shooting me an awkward look as she steps through the throngs to stand by us. Everyone's squished together like sardines in a tin as they announce the act for this evening- a band I've never heard of, but Eddie's obsessed with them, so I came for him.

Wishful thinking for me to assume that she wouldn't be here.

She's everywhere.

No, not in a metaphorical sense. Savannah literally shows up everywhere Ed and I are because we share the same social circles. Warning for anyone out there considering dating a friend in your social circle- don't. Especially if they become your best friend within weeks of knowing one another.