Chapter 36

"Louder boy, let everyone hear your baritone," I faked a smile.
Even if you do not.
I'm just making up a story. A big pretense to hide the cry of the abusive whole ..
"Go red team!" he said, a bit louder this time.
"That's it baby boy," I beamed.
Only then did he realize the big mistake, when he stopped and glared at me.
"Joke!" I recovered quickly. Even before it entered its entire system the word was not in its own words.
"I am done with this nonsense, tsk!" he stormed away in a flash.
Baby boy just gets angry right away? He didn't want that, baby boy. Or maybe he wants to call me someone else? Kuya? Grandpa? Manoy? Baby girl?
I didn't even mean to utter that. Such an insensitive handsome species living on this planet!
"Louder boy, let everyone hear your baritone," I faked a smile.
Even if you do not.
I'm just making up a story. A big pretense to hide the cry of the abusive whole ..
"Go red team!" he said, a bit louder this time.
"That's it baby boy," I beamed.
Only then did he realize the big mistake, when he stopped and glared at me.
"Joke!" I recovered quickly. Even before it entered its entire system the word was not in its own words.
"I am done with this nonsense, tsk!" he stormed away in a flash.
Baby boy just gets angry right away? He didn't want that, baby boy. Or maybe he wants to call me someone else? Kuya? Grandpa? Manoy? Baby girl?
I didn't even mean to utter that. Such an insensitive handsome species living on this planet!
"Mama, we'll finish later. There's a lot more work to do," I said at the beginning when my mother finally answered the call.
It's past eight o'clock in the evening. But Kiesha still has a few rounds of dance practice. Something that prevents me from going home, because it entrusted the key to his car.
Giving the key to Zi is actually one of my option. I mean, it was the only choice I could think of. It would have been possible, if only the boss hadn't told him not to accept anything I would give him. Now, I am torn between staying and sneaking out. It's up to them if they don't have a car. Kiesha will still be safe with Zi.
"I'll send you to your brother there. I'll just know you're lying Neilani, get ready for me."
"Mom, I'm telling the truth."
LIE!
Earlier our work was finished. Some have already returned to the group, others like me have left first because they are waiting for someone else.
I raised my hands, as a signal to do what the group discussed. I told them how strict my mother was. There are a few similarities in our lives so they offered a little help to somehow get through.
"Gee, come on! We still have a lot to do," the president whispered.
"Please cut this cloth."
"As far as scissors."
"Is it going to be hung here?"
One after another said. Good thing, I have them to cover my little scratch tonight. Maybe now the doubt in mama's mind has been reduced by even one percent.
"I promise, after that I'll go home right away. I'm with Kiesha by the way, you don't have to worry-"
The call ended. He did not wait for me to finish speaking. Is there anything new? He is really like this when disgusted. I shrugged at the thought.
"Thanks for the help huh?" I harvest calmly.
"Is it effective?"
"Maybe," I managed to laugh, despite the little bitterness spreads over my chest.
"My pick -up is out, go ahead bye!"
"Bye!"
"I'm at once."
"Me too..."
One by one my colleagues left. Until finally abandoned. It was almost nine o'clock, it was annoying and a little sad to be left alone in front of our booth.
Kiesha is currently inside the dance room, while Zi buys water for the boss. That was before, until now there is still nothing. But I don't care anyway.
Maybe I'll go out first. Eat for a while at a nearby cafeteria because your stomach is getting full. I hope it's still tomorrow, I can save there. But if you look, maybe in the bakeshop. I just really need to feed my stomach.
I took my wallet out of my bag. Count the remaining savings first, then save what will be used today.
"Oh."
My attention swiftly averted to Zi.
He was holding a pastic bag of foods from a familiar food chain. I even read the letters written here, to confirm what I see.
Just like earlier, he was still sporting a poker face. As if saying he had the baddest day of all. Hair on army cut, his neck tie was now slightly loose, so with the first button of his untucked uniform.
Where did this one come from? Who was so reluctant to return?
"Kiesha gives in."
He stretched his arm against me, blocking my view on him.
"Thank you," I replied raw. He didn't hesitate to take the food.
This is blessing ...
"Did you eat already?"
"I am alright," he settled on the monoblock beside me.
I glanced at the dishes it brought. Plenty, enough for the two of us.
"We can share," I took the burger and hand it over to him.
"No, thanks. Maybe you still lack those."
"What do you think of me, greedy? This is too much for my stomach Leander. Now just accept my offer, you have no other choice," I nudged him with my elbow.
It snorted, no longer trying to answer. When no one looked at the food I presented.
We ate quietly, no one wanted to talk. A few students like us lying in the gym are also begging. As time went on, the surroundings became quieter, so I could almost hear her breathing and the sound of each chew.
I am keeping my limits to him. We can't be friends; there's no way we would. We are just a simple acquaintance. Nothing more, nothing less.
When the day comes, when we are apart there is no regret to feel for each other. Because from the beginning, we already know how far it really is.
"What are we gonna do after this? It must be a long time before they finish Kiesha," I said, cutting the silence.
Now we work together to clean up the mess. He was holding the bag, and I was the one who picked up the falling plastic.
It answered nothing. When we finished, he quietly went to the trash can. I returned to my chair, averted my eyes and turned away. You might think I'm fantasizing, I'm still arrogant.
Two men sitting on the upper bench caught my attention. Looking at how their eyes and fingers were only attached on thier phone, I guess they're playing online game. They use free wifi, for sure. My phone's battery is low, so I can't keep up with it. There is really nothing else to worry about.
Zion spent a minute or two, just by throwing the trash at the nearest can. Seems like the distance traveled huh? Just a few steps.
He appeared from behind me, wearing a complacent smile.
Did he see anything beautiful?
Out of curiosity, I looked at our booth. To check the reason of his satisfaction. I first glanced at the detachable lights at the entrance, followed by the organization logo above.
What the-
"You don't have anything else to do, do you? Here, I am aiding your problem."
"This is not what I meant. You broke our design ..." I failed to stand up, then openly pushed closer to the hut to fix the damage.
The storage of the items he removed was too high. I would have a hard time getting it back in the right place without the help of a ladder or chair.
Just when I am about to get the monoblock, he already managed to pull the two of it away.
"Heck, you're not funny Zion!" I stared at him.
"Find some time to think of the solution for your current problem without the help of these," he lifted the monoblocks up.
"I don't want to think, I don't think, I don't think!" I was screaming now in annoyance.
"First, if you don't give that, I'll stone you," I removed the shoe I was wearing.
"Two!"
He remained on his ground, unbothered.
Without further ado, I threw my shoe right into his face. With the force of the hit, I could hear its loud thump. Reason for immediately losing his smile.
His pair of beautiful brown eyes had now turned into slits. His expression swiftly shifted into peril, too venomous for my sight.
"I threatened you. You should have listened," I said boldly. In fact, the muscles are already shaking.
He's scary!
"Tsk, you are no fun Neilani," he growled.
"You too!" I again stepped closer to him. There's the pretense of getting what you want out of it. But unexpectedly, he just ran me away.
"Leander!" I exclaimed.
"Catch me if you can," I could feel the mocking smirk in his voice.
Well, he has a bad headache tonight!
"I'm really going to chase you," I started running closer to him as well.
Now we are chasing around the gymnasium. I was completely determined to catch it, as well as his decision to stay free from me.
It's annoying!
It was only here that I heard the loud music caused by various instruments and the shouting of my fellow students. Each of them chanted the prepared yells under the morning sun, the view of the people stationed inside and outside their own establishment. Laughing and shouting well at the height of the long parade.
Everyone are having fun, despite the heat the morning shine have poured. It's only now that I feel the big tension of it later. Everyone is eager to start a variety of contests. The frown on the faces is obvious from here.
I am not among the participants who are currently rehearsing for the show later. So it would have been forbidden to hang out here now, especially on the third floor. All none-participants are expected to join the parade, but it was I Geline Neilani. When it is said that it is lazy to wake up early just to keep up with the walk and ruin the voice, it is really lazy. Nothing good can be ruined for me, because it is really ruined. What worries me is the energy being wasted. I mean, I don't have much energy either, that's why it is highly preserved.
I could not agree to the agreed meeting time. It was four o'clock in the morning, but the parade started at eight o'clock. My whole spirit was still asleep at that moment. If you actually attend, you"re probably drowsy and have no appetite right now.
It was good that I thought of going to university with Kiesha and Zion. The witch was strong on guard, so there was no problem entering. Now I am both watching the students and waiting for her to step out of the room the are currently using for rehearsal. After the yells competition, they will show off their dancing talent. Then there were two more intermissions later. It's so busy, I'm the only one who really doesn't contribute to this kind of celebration.
What kind of talent can I share? Nor is the simple singing sideways. There are no mind games, or even trivias. A few of the things I know.
"You like?"
I was shocked to turn to the person I did not expect to see today. Zion in red shirt and messy hair, with horn-designed headband on top. His jeans pants, so with the new white sneakers completed his overall look. The bag is loosely slung over its shoulder and holding a cupcake. He presents it to me.
Did I think he would have a lot to do now with fellow officers at his own club? They are facilitating a game somewhere in the parking lot. Aside from the booths inside the gym, for others to know the purpose of the joined organizations. Many booths are also set up in various parts of the university, to provide comfort to the students.
Confession or message booth, photobooth, cupcakes standee and food court for food lovers, horror booth and so on. With the amount of activity prepared, I no longer knew what to go first. Or if there is going to be one. Maybe it just depends on the cheerleader.
"Luh, where are you ..." he said again when I hoped to reach for the cupcake. He moved it away, with his eyebrow slightly up.
"Eeee?" that's just my grimace. "Go away! Irritated."
I thought I was serious about handing out food. I only had two tablespoons of cereal in the morning, not as much appetite as before. But now that the king of the sun has fully blossomed, only then did the hunger for the muscles begin.
"Can I punch you? You already have a brain injury? Are you paying attention again? Annoying!" I whispered one after another, then pushed him violently.
"Who has a shotgun there?" I will ask. Suppose someone is talking to someone other than him. "Ah nothing?"
Exactly when I parted my loose hair, Kiesha came out of the room where she was staying.
"Kiesh, look at that bodyguard of yours who's harassing. Every morning he breaks the silence."
"Really?" he smiled meaningfully.
"Huh? Of course!" I replied. It's almost time to retaliate with annoyance.
"Then do whatever you want," she winked.
"Really?" my lips rose in a smile. "You're dead now Leander."
I faced Zi again. There was still a lot of courage and a wide smile, but when we looked at each other, we just lost our courage.
He was staring right into my soul coldly, as if he owns an ice castle. Been living in their for a while now, he already inhibits its essence and that made his cold aura normal.
He didn't even back down or be surprised by what I said. Really confident that I will do no harm.
Moments later sarcastically smiled back. He handed the cupcake to me again. When I did not accept, he himself took my hand and laid it on it. He then stormed away, saying nothing as goodbye.
"He's crazy," I murmured.
"Your man is just joking. You took it seriously," Kiesha folded her arms and changed the seat left by the staff.
"He's not funny."
"How do you get along with that if it's always like this?" he snorted.
"Are you done?" I change the subject. Obviously avoiding the question.
I had no plans to be friends with that man. I said that in the beginning. Over and over again, there seemed to be a broken plaque that could not stop reminding me how far.
"Yes. I'm just waiting for the others to finish preparing to go down at the same time."
Her make up looks too fierce and seductive. Dark eyeshadow, fake lashes, curly hair extension and bloody lipstick. Paired with black cami, red checkered skirt and silver knee length whole boots, covered with crystals that will probably shine when later the spotlight decides to shed its grace at it. Its paired hair clips and a few body decorations also grab attention.
She even bought the outfits today from sister Kianna in Paris. She wants to look baddas, stylish, yet cute at the same time. Staring at her now, she definitely achieved her goal!
"Is that delicious?" without saying goodbye it snatched the cupcake from my hand and left it.
Aside from the violent sigh, I did nothing else to express shock and disgust.
"When there's a potion, I really don't know," I only muttered. Frankly, it's too late.
If he hadn't really been released last night, a series of complaints would have been heard today.
"It's okay, it's Zion who has a plan," he giggled. "I'm ready to fight for him anytime. It's okay with you, isn't it? You don't like him anyway," she added.
"You have a boyfriend," I said in greeted teeth.
I am not buying her words. It's too inappropriate.
"Oh, why angry?" he winked at me, When he smiled mockingly.
"I'm just reminding you what you have Kiesha. Respect your relationship! Then flirt with others when you're free again."
"I'm just kidding alright? Of course I really love Zed, I can't fool him."
I haven't answered yet. From him, the gaze shifted to the students now entering the gym. It wasn't that big to cater all the students. As what I've heard on our meeting last time, the officers on each organization will be giving access code to some students, who would want to cheer for their team.
The yells competition will begin immediately. There will be no rest until tonight. Based on the news I received, a band was allegedly invited for an after party celebration. Hope everyone can join in the fun ...
I'm only until seven in the evening now. Just like last night, my older brother will pick it up again.
Luckily, it didn't catch Zi and me. His arrival was just right at the parting of the path. The opportunity was still right, thank you.
"By the way, thanks for the food last night huh?" when I change the subject.
"Food?" he asked in surprise.
"Yes, you sent Zi for me."
"I did?" she craned her neck.
"You forgot?"
It looked up and thought for a moment.
Did he forget to remember something else? But as far back as I can remember, I can't forget it, I'm even more the one who misses something every day.
"Oh, yeah!" she finally said after awhile. "The food! I gave you a pack of food," she said, more of convincing herself.
I keep wondering what is true. I can totally see something odd on her eyes; I see lie and confusion.
"You didn't order that," I'm sure.
"Heck, it was I ... I just forgot sorry."
"Kiesha baba na raw tayo," his companion snatched his attention.
"Yeah, coming!" she held my hand.
We went down the stairs holding hands, to the back of the stage. I saw their dance last night, so I am not excited anymore. I feel like I prefer to take a walk around campus now, looking for something to play with.
"I probably won't watch your performance anymore."
"Where are you going?"
"Just outside. I'm hungry too," I whispered to my growing stomach.

"All right," he handed me the bag he was holding. "Please bring it, my important things are there. I might lose them if I just leave them here."
I took it reluctantly. It's not heavy so it's okay.
We left a few reminders for each other, before he left to head to the stage because he was about to perform.
I know she can still perform well, without my support. I found the gymnasium too crowded and suffocating, one of my weaknesses. In this case, it is sometimes difficult to breathe, so it is better to leave than to distract others because they have fainted.
Good thing, I already have a glimpse of the first activity's best part. Aside from the respective explosive props of the participants, I have nothing else to look out for.
But before my exit, let me commend everyone's effort.
Obviously everyone is really preparing for the celebration today. In hindsight, it seems like no crying happened in the past after losing hope in the difficult exam. I am so proud at how splitting our spirits are. Despite the pain, there's always positivity left within us.
"Gee!"
Nica got my attention. It included Max, both holding cotton candy and wearing a headband. A bunny ear, highlighted with LED light that will surely shine even more at night.
"Your trip?" I folded my arms, looking around in astonishment at the two.
"We look really cute, I know," Max shamelessly proclaimed.
She's indeed Kiesha Amira's cousin. The braggart is so on point.
"I know you also don't feel like watching the show today, so you have to come with us. I mean, you are obliged to. Have a sight of the outside beauty baby girl," Nica gently touched my wrist. She smiled widely, as she pulled me out of the gymnasium.
They also bought me a headband that is just the same as the one I'm currently wearing, as well as cotton candy that I don't want to feed. It was only an addition to our innocent look. No props shall be a ground for consummation, as what they've said.
What a crazy mindset, really ...
"We're in the horror booth," Max suddenly suggested.
"Game!"
The two turned to me at the same time.
"What?" I asked, in between confused and annoyed.
I partly disagree thier sense of fun. Why look innocent when you are naturally sinful?
Exactly one large mirror I passed. That"s just the automatic approach to it to look at the reflection.
I first traced my clothes. A denim ankle-length skirt and blue shirt, with a word 'EDUCATION EAGLES', imprinted on it. Written in bold, with our department's logo at the upper left corner. I tied the shirt to at least add some details and taste, because it looks too plain for me. A pair of white sneakers and eyeglasses completed my overall boring look, just like the usual. Now wearing a headband, I look like a kid taking a walk with my sisters.
"We've been looking for a while," I didn't myself turn to the right after Martha's voice cleared.
The floral dress and valentino sandals she was wearing had my eyebrow lift up.
From what I heard, you can't wear any other clothes today other than the ready -made departmental shirt.
Someone is showing rudeness in the agreed policy here ... Tsk!
"You're handsome in red," she was smiling sweetly in front of Zion. The newly rebonded hair was decorated with the same headband he was wearing.
They turned out to be real friends with both horns.
I winced at my own thought ...
"What do you need?"
"Come on, let's go to the photobooth."
I saw how his face brightened. He stood up straight, then cleared his throat. As if preparing for something long to say.
"You are such a baby, Martha. We don't take pictures together," he joked, messing up the hair in front of him.
"That was then."
"Tsk," he suddenly turned to my band. His bright face was even brighter.
I knew it wasn"t because I was simply excited to see my face. He was making fun of my style, that's for sure.
I raised my forehead, arrogantly staring back at him.
"Are you looking around?" I boldly question, trying to hide the little bitterness playing into the system.
I am offended. None of my life I have felt something like this.
"Nevermind," he answered, followed by a mocking smile. Pulling the shit out of me.
Why, this man is already scolding me.
"There you go, fighting ..." Nica said.
I couldn't see her reaction, for she and Max were standing behind me. But I can sense thier malicious gaze pointing at either me or Zion.
What ideas are playing in their minds right now, for sure.
"C'mon," without leaving my eyes, he reached for Martha's hand and together they strutted towards the small passing, leading to the photobooth if I wasn't mistaken.
Out of the sudden, I felt inexplicable feelings; tearing some part of me. Especially the most sensitive spot. The beat of life, the first piece to run across when love finds its way ... My heart.
Why am I feeling this way? Why tearful? This shouldn't be ...
"Is that Martha?" Max asked curiously.
"Tara, let's have shawarma first and then horror booth," I said in monotone.
I don"t want to talk to someone like him, like them. The thoughts that are currently running through our minds should remain unspoken. To avoid any misconception, and or deadlock. Perhaps during the conversation, a difference of opinion suddenly came to our minds. Knowing how blatant these bitch are, and also knowing my temper, the higher chance of incongruities is very possible.
Taking the lead, I took a bit on my cotton candy. No grounds shall also halt me ​​from taking a taste. This is mine anyway. My law, the accompaniment of knowledge will do ...
Damn!
To be continued...