(Evelyn's POV)

"And then he was like, way faster than even the smartest kid I know in that class – I mean, how can anybody easily solve a question that difficult like it was just '2 plus 2'?"

"Maybe he knows his way around it, Eve – you know that geniuses exist in this universe," my Mom mentioned, "Anyway, don't compare yourself to him or anyone – you're perfect just the way you are."

I sighed, knowing that once she quoted that there's no room for argument. I resumed picking at my food, a habit I have had since I was a child – mostly because I keep having thoughts flying through my head every few minutes.

Those that dominated involved Keith – not only was he new to the school, but even without sneaking a glance at the usual class nerds I could tell they're jealous of him. That, or the fact he doesn't look as "nerdy" as they do. 'In fact, he is pretty cute…' I admitted; my train of thought derailed as my father tapped my shoulder.

"Are you over-thinking again? You really have to cut down on that," he said, chuckling, "Besides, I don't think you even heard what your mother and I were discussing about."

"S-Sorry, Dad…I'll try," I muttered, my slight lisp revealing each time I get flustered. "Anyway, I know you want to sign up for this year's swimming competition, but we think you should stay out of it," said my mother. At first I thought they were joking, but the moment I saw the seriousness in their eyes…

"But you always let me go. And I always got to be one of the Top 3. Why can't I sign up this year?" I demanded, wondering why they're taking some time to give an answer. "We think it's better that way – after all, you're nearly a grown woman and it's time you get more focused in doing more 'lady-like' things," my mother finally said, flipping back her hip-length dark hair.

"Dad, please! You know I love swimming!" I begged; frowning as his eyes narrowed behind his red-and-blue glasses. "Sorry, but you're not going this year – that's final," he spoke, ending this conversation.

I huffed and left the table, ignoring my mother's call about finishing my dinner first. 'I can't believe they won't let me do the thing I love most! Be more 'lady-like'? Swimming helps keep my form so at least I look –' I mentally fumed, stopping myself as I passed by the hall mirror.

I never spent much time looking at myself, so I somewhat felt surprised when I noticed the changes my body went through; I look more curvaceous than I remembered. 'Maybe I'll take their word for it and skip the competition this year,' I decided, heading to my room to calm down. And so taking out my books, I settled at my desk and began doing homework to take my mind off my thoughts.

That night, I was still awake when I heard my parents talking in the other room. Even though they do this every night, something tells me this isn't one of their usual 'how-was-your-day' conversations. Slipping out of my room and silently approaching theirs, I eavesdropped on them.


(Normal POV)

"You really think that would be best for her?" Evelyn's father asked, "I just hate to see our little girl all frustrated just because she's not allowed to attend her favorite event anymore."

"You know as much as I do that she has reached that age – it won't be long before nature decides her fate," replied Evelyn's mother, "Besides, I wouldn't want to be there to witness the embarrassment if it occurs without warning."

"Like the time I met you?" he chuckled, a smirk forming on the corner of his lips; earned a playful punch to his arm. "But seriously, though. Don't you think she deserves to know the real reason behind this?"

"In due time…" was all she said after a brief silence.


(Evelyn's POV)

'Before nature decides my fate? What is she talking about? Are they hiding something from me?' I pondered, quietly padding back to my room and putting myself to bed.

Thinking I'm probably just too tired and maybe I heard their conversation wrong, I drifted to sleep; barely felt my mother tucking me in and stroking my hair before leaving my room and closing the door.