BURNING RED

Chapter 17

KNIGHT

I just finished my homework when Mama came in my room.

"Bryce's downstairs my dear." Mama said then kissed my head.

"Why?" I asked then checked his phone. We swapped phones last night.

Five messages from my number and two missed calls.

Myqueen: what are you doing baby? 🥰4:50pm
Myqueen: busy? 5:01pm
Myqueen: I'll be there soon. Can't wait to see you. 5:35pm
Myqueen: baby...😢 6:00pm
Myqueen: come down. I'm outside. 😊6:05pm

Myqueen
4:55pm Missed Call
6:01pm Missed Call

That guy really couldn't live without calling and texting.

"Joi my dear.." Mama pulled me up and walked me to my wardrobe.

"He asked us to take you on a date. So you need to change." Mama said while checking my dresses.

"Hmm." She pulled one of my red lace bodycon dress and red pumps.

"Now, get dress." She ordered me.

I reluctantly changed my clothes.

She pulled me to my dresser and made me sit down. "Now, for the last part.."she smiled happily.

"Go downstairs and make him drool over you my dear."

"Mind you, he really look so hot and manly with his suit and tie." Mama then giggled.

I rolled my eyes.

"What? I'm just admiring your boyfriend. Agnes talked to me about you and Bryce. He never had any interest with girls. So she's so happy and excited for you and her son. You're his first girlfriend."

"He's not my boyfriend Mama." I deadpanned.

"Hmm. He likes you, and I can see that you like him too."

I thought for a moment. "Well I like him. But not the same as I like Scott and you. I'm confused."

"Tell your Mama how you feel about him then." I stared at her reflection then lowered my eyes when I couldn't meet her gaze anymore. My heart started to beat so fast just by thinking about Bryce.

"I-I feel happy whenever he's around. He's so gentle towards me and gives me attention that I never had with my parents. He says things that makes me happy, and sometimes annoys me too. But I still want him close. Everyday, I'm always excited to see him at school. And right now, my heart beats fast just by thinking about him. And I can't even compare him to Alexander. He's just gorgeous and amazing. You see, I love you and Scott. But my feelings for Bryce is different. I don't want to misunderstand it but maybe what I have for him is sister's love? I'm confused." I blabbered without stopping for breath. My Mama chuckled.

"My dear Joi, you're in love with him." Mama emphasized the word IN. I was more than confused.

"Okay, you know Carl right? Bryce's brother?" Maybe she saw my expression.

I nodded. "What will you do if he tried to kiss you?" My body became stiff with the idea.

Every part of me rejected it.

"How about if Bryce kissed you?" My lips parted in surprise.

Realization hit me. I remembered his kiss. The feelings came back again. I looked at her wide eyes on the mirror.

"See. Yours with Bryce is romantic love. Carl's platonic."

"What will I do?" I panicked.

"Just act normal."