A/N:
Okay, in my last update, I lied about updating the last two. Hence, I apologize for that. I wasn't in the zone, and lacked so much ideas. So I hope this update will make up for that. Plus, it's 8k of words. I'm shocked to realize this.
Oh, and this is probably one of my favorite chapters. There was a lotta detailing done here. But I won't spoil you any further ;)
Disclaimer: RotG (c) Dreamworks, OC+plot (c) mine.
Autumn.
September 28, 4:32 pm.
"Oh, Lia! Lia! Lia! Lia!" A chirpy voice gushes over me, taking me into a full 360-degree turn. Two slim arms are trapping me to this tall, petite woman with long apple red hair with rainbow streaks here and there. That familiar fresh flowery scent lingering over me while I notice a familiar hummingbird, which is a notable factor of which can help you find or tell who exactly this woman is.
Taking an arm's length, I am met with this woman's features – tanned skin, high cheek bones, wide doe translucent violet eyes, small pink lips, long nose, and an overall fairy aura giveaway. For short, it's the school dentist plus nurse, Ms. Elina Toothiana.
She's wearing a lavender empire dress with a white blazer with butterfly prints and sandals. Wow, she still looks elegant. No wait, she always does in any clothes she wears. I feel completely out of place in my jeans, sneakers, blouse and cardigan.
She's just that gorgeous, Miss Elina is. And if you ask me, she's better off teaching ballet to Sophie and a few other girls than to have dedicated her life keeping track of pearly white teeth, good health and consultation time to time. Not that I'm forcing her to do that, she's just perfectly fine in her position right now.
"H-Hi Miss Elina," I greet, feeling a bit woozy from the turnaround she gave me.
A fleeting little blue and green object flies around me, tweeting something I don't understand. And when I look closely, I realize that it's Baby Tooth, Miss Elina's loyal friend and pet hummingbird. She's chirping me happily, she (Miss Elina would kill you if you called Baby Tooth 'it') too was gushing at the sight of me.
"H-Hi Baby Tooth." I acknowledge her with a light pat.
Miss Elina giggles girlishly before she fawns to reach for the juice box behind me. I reach it for her and she says her thanks.
"So, Lia what brings you here shopping for groceries?" she asks leaning against the cart as she walks beside me.
Currently I'm running a quick errand right now here in this grocery mall, and I just so happen bumped into Miss Elina. Who, after my first week at school last spring, has fawned over me like a little sister. She instantly was in love with how I've been treating my teeth and health as well. It's weird, but it's also kinda nice. She's been giving me advice, heads-on, tips and treats every once in a while and been my sort of confidant and best friend other than Jack. Besides, it's a healthy gesture you'd expect from a medical professional like her. She's cool and all, kind of like the kind of older sister; I've always wanted to have an older sister like her.
But anyway, I'm here shopping for quick groceries Mrs. Bennett asked from me earlier before I head off to babysit at the Bennett's.
"Oh, you know, Mister and Miss Bennett were going to a PTA meeting and needed someone to watch over Jamie and Sophie since they have somewhere to go to afterwards, thus, last minute babysitter and all. The perks of being me." I explain, causing Miss Elina to laugh.
"Oh Lia, it's having you around and being friends with you that has its perks." she says nonchalantly, smiling politely down at me.
"Huh?" I ask, tilting my head sideways in question.
Miss Elina realizes what she had just said and chuckles in a lady-like manner; using her slim hand to cover her tiny lips as a polite laughter erupts.
"Oh nothing Lia, just talking to myself." she says offhandedly.
"Uh-huh." I nod slowly.
Having bought everything, I bid Miss Elina goodbye. She leans down to peck my cheeks, Baby Tooth follows. My cheeks tinges a bit from where she kissed, she never ceases to surprise me. She reminds me of- never mind.
"Alright then, off you go now. It was nice seeing you Lia." I nod as finality to her before I run off to the nearest counter.
So it's been about 7 months since I've immigrated to Burgess, Pennsylvania.
And I must say, I've been adjusting quite well here. Everyone's nice, weird, awkward, stiff at first, but hey, they're tolerable. I managed in the end.
The lifestyle here is really that of my expectations from the ones I've watched on movies. Call me stereotype, but at least I have a context or idea of the life here. It's beyond lax and carefree, that it scares me.
I've come to know that my Tita Helen owns a small Filipino convenience store downtown called "Mang Juan's Stop". Mom works at a restaurant somewhere in town, Dad works in construction not far from my mom. So with busy parents out on weekends, that leaves our grandmother, Lola Carrie, all on her own at home tending the house, chatting with neighbors and occasionally, going to bingo with her friends. Tita Helen's day off is on a Wednesday and Sunday. Mom and Dad's are on Sunday. Tito Lito has the weekends.
School is alright. I mean, I passed the stage of being stiff to my peers and all thanks to a certain brunette neighbor who wouldn't leave my back the moment I stepped on school grounds. He's been giving me tours, lecturing me of the ground rules, the know-how's, basic routes and the like.
For one, our school is like super big because it's connected to the preschool and kindergarten. So I'm close to the youngster's campus and can drop by only during dismissal hours.
Oh, and when I introduced myself? Here's how I went:
"Um, hello, I'm Lia Ellen Dela Rosa, 16 years of age and a natural born Filipino. Pleased to meet you all."
Plain peachy, I know.
But at least I got a few friends outta it. They're far from my friends back at home but friends nonetheless.
Like this one guy named Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, or plain Hiccup. He's Jack's apparent partner-in-crime and buddy. Hiccup has a scrawny frame, medium length auburn hair, green eyes, and flecks of freckles on his face and has a nasally voice. He has quick wit and sarcasm to be his second language. Also, he has a pet lizard named Toothless. Then this boyish Scottish girl named Merida McDunbroch, who has been like a rival to Jack, but in my interpretation, I'd say they were good friends. Merida has long, wild, curly fiery red hair, deep blue eyes, pale skin tone and a slender body. She's an archer and the eldest to three young brothers. The two were actually introduced to me by Jack right after recess time along with a few others.
Oh yeah, on my first day, I met the school principal of which I almost screamed 'SANTA CLAUSE!' thanks to his grubby white beard, indescribable 'I'm-betting-chubby-or-muscles' physique, 'Naughty' and 'Nice' tattoos on either side of his arms, intimidating yet wondrous large blue eyed jolly Russian man named Nicholas St North, or as the kids would call him, Principal North. Little kids call him Santa. He was nice actually, always ranting in Russian when his secretary (who was freaking adorably large) would deliver him such bad news or bring him the wrong report or coffee or even why he was given the wrong mug. He absolutely adores Christmas, it's evident in the way he looks, he dresses (there's a green, red, white scheme) and the presence of peppermint everywhere when you're near him. But other than that, he's also freakishly scary and overprotective towards his students. To the extent of carrying his combat swords when something bad goes wrong. And I'm like: aren't weapons dangerous?
I also met Coach E that day at 6th period who immediately asked us to do 2 laps pronto. I got the idea already that he was a total no-nonsense guy, my kind of teacher. Luckily, I got a good 2 minutes and 18 seconds. He was impressed and asked me immediately if I was into any sports. When I said yes, he didn't hesitate to invite me to one of the tryouts before Jack intervened by putting a whoopee cushion on his seat, thus, ruining his good mood.
For my English, I have Mister Haythem Kozmotis Black. He's this sort of a scary guy; Jack's words not mine mind you, with his tall thin frame, pale skin, glowering yellow eyes, slick black hair and an eerie cool thick British accent. He's a bit of a melancholic guy who absolutely fits the Emo and Goth crowd with the way his expression is that of unamused and stoic time to time. Jack tells me that he rarely gives in to happy vibes and absolutely adores Edgar Allan Poe. The Nightmare King, as he was nicknamed. But really, he's just in need of some sort of help. Mind you, the guy has his reasons to be that way. So, he's kind of my buddy teacher. He even said I had given him a good impression for the first time in his 10 years of teaching! I'm really looking forward to this guy. Plus, its fun watching him interact with Miss Elina, his expression softens every time they chat, its fun watching that. A useful information I have never told Jack.
Then, there's the guidance counselor and vice principal, Doctor Sanderson Yellowstone, or as we call him, VP Sandy. A man in his late forties with a short and squat figure, spiky golden blond hair, childish wide golden brown eyes, cute button nose and a cute face that is untimely cute with every expression he makes. Jack tells me that he is far most, the wisest man to have ever walked the face of the earth with his endearing observation, keen intellect, and braise advises. He's Miss Elina's uncle, apparently. Also, he's mute, which I found rather ironic. The man communicates via notebook; you tell him something, he writes down his professional advice, hands it to you, and then prays for you in the end. He's a pacifist. I met him in Principal North's office where he was to instigate me and wanted to know about me, my limitations, strengths and weakness that may benefit to my adjusting here in school. Mom and Dad apparently told them in advance. VP Sandy is pretty much like the childishly cute and mute uncle I never had.
Miss Elina came in after my transfer process, to check my height, weight, and other important details about my health. Like I mentioned earlier, she instantly overjoyed the moment she found out about my good health and teeth, as was her loyal protégé, Baby Tooth. I think I remember Jack mentioning how much of a teeth fanatic the woman was. Instantly, she became my older sister-figure and earned my trust for the rest of the school year.
My uncle, Lito, is my World History teacher. Then there's Mister Onceler, my Economics and Government teacher, Miss La Rue, my Chemistry, Mister Lee, my Arts teacher, and a few others.
Jack, who happened to help me all day, just happens to have the same schedule as me. Meaning, we share the same subject everyday, so we see each other everyday, he walks to class with me everyday, and is constantly laughing at me everyday. For short, I suffer his company everyday inside and outside school.
When he first asked me to be his friend last spring, I have always thought of him as nothing more but a creep. But in a few months of getting to know him I have learned that Jack Snow has a soft side for kids, most especially for his baby sister, Emma. He's child at heart, honest, kind, compassionate and a bit irrational when it comes to school work. A teenage hellion if I may put it. But that's just him, my apparent best friend that is Jack Snow.
So yeah, you can say that my 7 months of stay has been inevitable at first, unsettling next, rocky in the process, but has been worth it in the end. I'm able to adjust well with everyone here, I quickly manage and I have my family to help me on my good feet. So, all is well actually.
I'm currently helping Jamie with his Math homework in his room 2 hours prior when I had just arrived, finished unloading the groceries, played with the kids and tucked Sophie to her nap. Math is apparently, Jamie's worst enemy. So as his unofficial Ate, good friend and current babysitter, it is my duty to help him out.
So far, we're done with his homework and are in the middle of tutoring so he can master on his own. I'm about to teach him about integers, rational and irrational numbers when his door suddenly bursts open.
"LIAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAAAAAAAA!" calls little Sophie, who apparently, had just woken up from her nap. Their greyhound, Abby, barks happily behind the blonde girl her tail wagging side to side before she barks again ana they both barge into Jamie's room.
"Whoa, there girls! We're in the middle of tutoring here." I remind sternly. Narrowing my hazel orbs and forming a tight line on my lips, I look at them petulantly as Sophie climbs on Jamie's bed and starts bouncing up and down. She's too hyper and jolly to be affected by me. Jamie's giggling beside me signals that I have just failed to subdue his 4-year old sister. I gave up and closed the textbook.
"Some other time then eh, Jamie?" I turn to the young brunette, putting my hand on his hair to screw it playfully.
"Yep, next time Lia!" he laughs.
Jamie's hair is a mess and I can't help but laugh at it, he immediately turns to comb his mocha hair with his fingers before he heads on to join his sister. The siblings are both jumping up and down the bed, racing on who can jump the highest and are laughing as they do so. Abby just watches from the side, barking happily every once in a while.
The sight of them happy reminds me of me and my brothers back in the day, we would be like this as well. The thought of it quells constricting and painful memories down my core.
No, don't go there! Get away from the dark side Lia Ellen! I reprimand myself mentally.
I quickly eradicate it and quickly join the siblings; I take Jamie's pillow and start a pillow fight with them. Our laughter fills the room, pillows being thrown everywhere and thumps of feet rumbling the floors.
After a while, we're on the floor lying on our backs trying to catch our breathes with smiles still plastered on our faces.
"Whew, that…was…" I breathe, still giggling as Sophie stumbles on my tummy.
"…fun." Jamie finishes for me, throwing his pillow back to his bed and rolls over.
"Fun! Fun! Fun!" Sophie repeats merrily. Her blonde hair falls everywhere and is tangled in places.
I lift my wrist to see that it was already 4:58 pm, the Mr. and Mrs. Bennett will be home soon with take out dinners while I have to get home for my dinner.
Hastily bringing myself to my feet, I plant my hands to my hips to face the siblings.
"Alrighty, Jamie and Sophie Bennett, bath time! Your parents will be home very soon and they want you fresh and clean and in your PJs now." I say in an authorative yet understandable tone.
Jamie and Sophie quickly rise to their feet and salute at my orders "Aye, aye captain!"
I smile a bit before going back to being Miss Responsible Babysitter.
"Good, I shall be preparing your baths. While I do so, Jamie and Sophie, clean your room. Now." They're off in a flash. "Abby," I turn to the greyhound who looks at me expectantly "Good girl, go look out for Sophie." She barks in approval before turning towards Sophie's room. My phone suddenly rings from my pocket, I quickly pick it up, not bothering to read the caller ID, and bring it to my ear "Hello?"
"Don't drop the phone, this is urgent."
I immediately recognize the caller. I grin stupidly, rolling my eyes as I readjust my phone. "Haha Jack, very funny."
"C'mon, humour me here Li!" he frustrates; I can almost picture him pouting against the other line.
"What do you want?" I get to the point dryly as I fix Sophie's bath.
"What'cha doin'?" he asks playfully. I face palmed myself, earlier I had told him about my babysitting job, Jack wanted to tag along, but fortunately, he was in detention for t-ping the trees.
"Babysitting." I say instead of the harsh sarcasm I have in mind.
"You done?"
"In a few hours," I lift my wrist for precaution it's 10 minutes past. "Mr. and Mrs. Bennett will be home soon."
"Hmm, I see...laters!" he hangs up, leaving me hanging. I stare at my phone suspiciously, wondering why he even called me in the first place.
I let the subject drop and turn to help Sophie with her bath.
Another 10 minutes later, Sophie and Jamie are in their PJs. They, or should I say we, are currently watching some safe, mindless cartoons in the living room as we await their parents and dinner. Oh wait, their dinner. I have mine waiting for me, our dinner strictly starts at 7.
An hour later, the sound of a car engine dying down catches our attention, Sophie is quick on her feet and rushes to the door, Abby following right behind her. Jamie and I glance at each other knowingly before we ourselves stand and turn to the door.
"Mommy! Daddy!" Sophie gushes up and down on her feet, a wide gleam plastered on her face as she greets her parents.
My heart swells at the sight of Mr. Bennett kissing his daughter's forehead before he picks her off the ground. Jamie rushes over and greets his Dad, receiving a pat in the head as they walk towards their dining room.
On cue, I rush over to help Mrs. Bennett with their take out but stops short when she raises a hand. A grateful and relieved like expression on her face.
"Oh don't worry about that Lia, someone has that handled."
My brows furrow, were they expecting someone?
"Someone?"
The sounds of nearing plastic caught my attention; I lift my head to see who it was almost wishing that I hadn't.
"Someone~" Jack repeats, making his appearance -all clad in jeans, long-sleeved white shirt, gray shirt with a pouch and hoodie, and sneakers - a wide grin on his ever annoying face. How I want to rub it off him.
I roll my eyes and offer help, but he wouldn't, didn't want his pride down as it seems. Sighing in defeat, I walked him to the dining room and helped set the meals instead.
Mrs. Bennett offered me to eat with them but I turned down the offer when I told them that I was expected home right now. Lola Carries hates it when we're not together during dinner time. Standing beside me, Jack feels out of place and tells me that he'll wait for me in the living room.
"Awwww..." Sophie and Jamie groan sadly the moment Jack left; I gave them an apologetic smile.
"Well, would you need a ride home then?" Mr. Bennett asks, I shake my head. "No, no. Thanks for the offer, but I have some errands to do before I get home." I lie; I just wanted to walk home.
"Then thank you for babysitting Lia, we appreciate your help very much." Mrs. Bennett says warmly, I return the gesture.
Mr. Bennett hands me a forty dollar bill fresh from his wallet, I hesitate at first but take it anyway. I bid them all goodbye and turn to get my backpack from the living room where I find Jack playing with Abby. Silently taking my backpack from the couch, I sling it over my shoulder and slowly make way towards Jack. He has his back to me.
"Ehem." I cleared my throat loudly, it gladly catches his attention. He stops playing with Abby and gives me his most innocent look when he notes my glare.
"Have you somewhat turned into a stalker now Jack?"
He tilts his head to the side, humming in thought.
"Uh...nope?" Sigh. "I was sent by your Granny to pick you up!" Raised eyebrow. "It's true! She did. I swear-" I hold up my hand.
"Alright, I believe you. Keep your voice down, the Bennett's are having their dinner." unknowingly, I looked behind me to find them rather animatedly as they eat. They look so happy, my eyes soften. My heart constricts but somewhat swells at the sight of them, a happy family.
I quickly tear away and grab Jack's hand, dragging him with me to the door.
"Goodbye Lia and Jack!" Sophie and Jamie say in unison, Abby follows with a bark.
"Bye!" I say back for me and Jack's sake.
"Take care now!" Mrs. Bennett adds.
Jack chuckles, "We will!"
And at that, we were out and are walking away from the Bennett household. I quickly drop Jack's hand and without another word, I walk away from him. Holding myself as the image of them, the Bennett's, being a happy family, grows to haunt me.
"Li?" Jack calls after me, but I ignore him, my thoughts consuming me with that image.
Mom, Dad, Kuya Jag and Kuya Kenny...
"Hey Li," Jack calls again, he sounds so far almost like he's at the end of a tunnel. I continue walking, not bothering to look back or look up. I'm quiet familiar with the town like the back of my hand.
Another image pops up, though it's kind of blurry, and there are voices in it, four very familiar voices.
A scrawny girl who's sitting between her two brothers and her parents are happily eating dinner. Kuya Jag looks like he's lecturing me, unsatisfied with the food I've eaten.
"Lia, eat up the pinakbet Mom and I cooked."
Kuya Kenny is laughing at her, making fun of the fact that she's such a skinny girl and how she'll never grow.
"Lia payatot, Lia payatot!"
Her parents are just watching, enjoying the sight of them. Us. Just one big happy-
"LIA!" Jack screams, pulling me back with great force by the shoulders in time before a speeding car by passes me. Everything is in slow motion, Jack's hands are on either shoulder dragging me back harshly, the car revels before me, and I see my stupefied expression on my face on the tinted window and Jack's tall figure behind me. I watch the car speed away; acting like he had not almost ran over me. It disappears into the streets, leaving just me and Jack.
His chest is against my back, erratic breathing against my ear and a tight grip on my shoulders. I'm leaning limply against his tall stature, unable to move and considerably numbed from shock. I realize that I should say something at least.
Speak Lia, speak!
"A-Ah...Thanks, Jack..." I mumble in a small tone, leaning my head up slowly.
Jack heaves a heavy sigh of relief, burying his head into my hair. He's almost shaking; I find it awkward that he's suddenly sniffing my hair. But I don't fight.
"Don't scare me like that Li..." he whispers shakily, sending tingles down my spine. But I fight to keep a straight front.
"Sorry..." I mumble awkwardly, lifting my numb fingers to pat his scruffy brown hair in assurance.
We stay like that for a while, him reassuring that I was alright and should calm down, and me comforting him in the most awkward position possible.
Again, I don't fight. I let him be until he finally comes to his senses. I am the first to pull away and turn to him, a face full of worry meeting mine. It's so alien of him, since he's always so bright. But seeing him like this...it's almost heartbreaking, especially knowing the fact that it was out of my clumsiness that caused this.
I try to smile for his sake, a small smile that I can manage.
Thankfully, it gets him. His ever warm and familiar smile that is so Jack Snow, etched on his worrisome face.
"There's the Jack Snow I know."
He smiles even wider, twin orbs instantly brightening up to my relief. I mirror him, not caring for the playfulness that comes afterwards as he flips my head upside.
"Just don't do that again Lia, you had me worried!" I roll my eyes, unable to hide my blush.
"Yeah, yeah, yeah..." I say back, adjusting the strap of my bag on my shoulder.
"I'm serious here Li, you could have been-"
"But I wasn't," I cut him off, staring at him square in the eye as I walk backwards. "and it's all thanks to you Jack. If you weren't tasked to get me, I could have been injured and in the hospital right now. Remind me to thank Lola Carrie when we get home."
He cocks his head in puzzlement. "What does Lola even mean?" I mentally gave myself a face palm.
"Seriously, we've been best friends" he suddenly lightens up to the word "for what, 7 months, and you've heard me and Bobby say that a million times, and yet you still don't know what it means?" my face scrunches up in irritation.
Jack gives it a thought, a few seconds later; he gives me a sheepish grin. I groan in frustration at this guy.
"Really..." I mutter as I shake my head, but he just laughs it off.
When we reach the park, I jump on a ledge, making me taller than Jack, and whistle. I left my iPod charging at home after it was confiscated on my first day of school.
"Hey Lia," he calls; I stop whistling and look down at him. "Hmm?"
With my full attention, and surprising new mood, he's taken aback stuck shuffling on the spot. Almost hesitating what he's trying to ask, if he's gonna ask. I can almost tell by the way he called out my name.
"What happened back there?"
"There-" It hits me hard like a truck full of bricks. He must have notice me watching in envy the sight of one big happy family, dining merrily and without a care in the world. Damn he's observant.
"Li?" he asks, searching for my eyes.
I hop down the ledge so he's standing much taller than me once again. Humming deep in my throat, I connote that I'd tell him something. Knowing that he wouldn't easily drop something he'd be so curious about, I should know.
Taking a deep, assuring, and somewhat frustrated breathe, with shoulders sagged, I gave up to him.
"I-I...I..." damn it Lia Ellen don't stammer! But I can't help it, I'm shaking mad. I clench my fists to stop myself from...something. Finding my voice, I continued "I, uh, kinda had a...flash back."
"A flash back?" he repeated. I nodded, feeling unsure.
"Hmm, more like jealous really." Jack narrows his amber eyes, almost speechless. "Jealous?" I nod with eyes shut that sounded stupid. "Of what?"
And when I open my eyes, Jack's expression falls into that of when he had saved me. This day just keeps getting better and better.
"Of them."
"Them, the Bennett's?" I nod once. "Why?"
Okay, this has gone too far. Not to mention way too personal.
"It's private matters." I whisper quietly.
"Aww, c'mon can't we talk-"
"Can we just drop it?" I exasperate, almost yelling on the spot. Jack flinches at my outburst; I quickly turn to regret it. "S-Sorry," I murmur. "I-I...i-it's j-just had a really stressful day for me, I-I guess."
I flopped into my bed tiredly just two hours after I had returned home safely, with Jack as my escort of course. Two hours have passed and the day still manages to wear me down - the volleyball practice, the grueling lab activity, grocery shopping, chatting with Miss Elina, schoolwork, babysitting the Bennett's, my near death experience, doing the dishes with Bobby, tutoring Bobby, chatting with my friends for almost an hour - and still, I cannot find myself anywhere near drowsy.
It's been a long day, and yet my mind and body betrays me. I can't sleep. I'm wide awake, too wide awake. I can't take it, I want to sleep. But I can't.
I just laid there, limp and awake looking up at my blue floral wall.
...
I turn to my alarm clock, 9:35 pm.
"Punyemas." I curse in my native dialect; dear god just let me sleep.
Dragging myself up, I bury my head into my hands whispering agonies of my current insomnia. Ugh, sleep, I need sleep.
My mind suddenly goes back to that image, of the Bennett's. Them, so happy together. And then that image pops up in my head, instantly a migraine builds up.
I massage my temples to soothe my nerves, letting out an exasperated breathe and then slowly count to ten.
"One...two..." Tap.
What was that?
Tap.
I ignore it and continue.
"...three..." Tap. "...four..."
"...five...six...seven...eigh-"
Tap. Tap. Tap.
Frustratingly, I looked out my window. I got off my bed and march towards the direction of the damnable tap.
I almost screamed when I saw Jack outside my window, waving carelessly at me as he crouches on the branch he's on. I'm left staring at him, and him staring back at me. I blink at him; he blinks right back at me.
"Jack?" I say after what seemed like forever.
"Hey." he says back with an easy smile.
...
I turn to my alarm clock, right on the dot it's 9:36. Ack!
"What are you doing?"
"Uh, trying to breaking in?"
...
"That's a crime." I say flatly.
"Kidding, I just wanted your attention?"
"For what?"
"Aren't you gonna let me in?" he says passively, either passing off my word or really in a hurry.
"Why are you outside my window at 9 in the evening?" I ask suspiciously.
"I'll tell you if you'll let me in."
Huh, that wasn't very nice. I step back from my window and cross my arms.
"Ask nicely." He groans, running both hands through his brown hair then looks at me dead in the eye "May I please-"
"Yes you may." The window is already unlocked by the time he growls at me, leaving him to just waltz into my bedroom. He's dressed warmer than he was from earlier, instead of the clothes he had earlier, he's wearing a red undershirt, open plaid shirt, black jacket, dark jeans and his comfy shoes compared to me who's just in my favorite striped sleeveless shirt and comfy boxers. I'm self-conscious all of a sudden; I don't let Jack know that I am.
"So what brings you here Jack? Surely it's better than to just drop by."
Sitting himself on my bed, he presents me a thousand dollars. Fresh and crisp, I stare at it incredulously.
"Did you steal that from Coach E?"
"What? No-" "Shh!" I put my finger to his lips to silence him, knowing that at this hour, everyone's sound asleep. And if anyone, most especially Lola Carrie finds any boy in my room in this night, regardless if it's Jack or any guy they trust, then...that would be the equivalent of hell breaking loose.
"Keep your voice down! If they find out that you're here, regardless of who you are to them...you know." Yeah, my family, or should I say culture, is that conservative.
"Alright, alright, I'll keep my voice down." he mumbles against my finger. I retrieve my finger and wipe it on his sleeve, removing any cooties from him.
"While I was on my way to get you, it was by sheer luck that I found this lying on the patch of grass. I swear, it was just lying there. And..." he trailed off, scratching his cheek to leave me momentarily hanging.
"Go on," I oblige him.
He bites his lip momentarily.
"You swear you're no gonna freak out and you'll promise to go along with it?"
I'm gaping straight at him, eye twitching a bit. "U-Uh...Okay?"
He smiles, my answering being the only assurance he needed.
"And, since you were...kind of not feeling well, and I just saw this music video of this song I've been listening to all day, and you were feeling down, and I wanted to do something fun-"
"Just get to the point already."
He sighs, rather annoyed for me to burst his bubble.
"Would you like to go explore the city life with me?"
...
...
...
"Come again?"
"I said, would-"
"Where would we be going?" I cut him off quickly with wide hazel eyes. I'm not excited. Nope, not the slightest bit. No.
He smirks knowingly, he knows me too well. Or so I think.
"New York City."
"Get outta here," he only crosses his arms on his chest "at this time of the night?" Nod. "L-Like, now?!"
"Yep!"
"Pass." Jack's face instantly falls, I don't budge. There was no way I'm leaving for town at this late hour. Besides I have a book report to finish and a test to prepare for, there's no way I'd want to go...out...now.
...
Okay, truth be told, the idea was tempting and was one of the things I've always wanted to do. I was really giddy and over the top when he asked me out. Not like a date out-out, but a friendly mindless adventure, out-out. You get the idea.
But right now? As in, now now?
"C'mon Li," he pleads, getting to his feet towards me with light footsteps. The house isn't that much soundproof, but it's better to be safe than sorry. "Can't you just let loose for once? Relax and live your life? YOLO?"
"What does that even mean?" I bite down the urge to laugh.
"You Only Live Once. But that's beside the point! Don't let this precious opportunity slip Li, take it up! You should have fun and explore the wonders of life, live a little!"
"But what about-"
"They'll never know we've left. Besides, they don't even know I'm in your room and manage to sneak right in thanks to that tree outside."
"True," I turn towards the tree, studying its sturdy trunks, branches and its height.
"So are you coming?" Jack asks expectantly, like he's waiting for a gift.
I give it a thought, if I stay, I'll probably never have a chance like this. If I go with him, I'd probably let some loose and cool off as he suggested so well. Plus, he says he's doing it for me, and I'd hate to turn him down if it were for a selfless cause.
"Turn around and face the corner." I instruct him, he brightens up.
"So does that mean you're coming?" He sounds so cute that it's adorable. I bite down on my lip to prevent myself from smiling.
"Yes, I am. But first, let me get changed first Jack. You can't possibly think I'll go out in my PJs?"
He is about to open his mouth but I beat him to put, pointing towards the corner of my room with a stern face. He complies without another word and I proceed to change.
"This won't take a while," I tell him, freeing my hair from the confines of my hair tie and combing them with my fingers. I'm feeling more self-conscious that he's here and I'm gonna change in the same room. "and if you dare as so much as to peep, I will scream bloody murder." Thankfully, I had still my bra on. I heave a sigh in relief. I quickly slip off my shorts and shimmy into my skinny jeans, throwing my shorts carelessly to my bed. Taking my favorite jacket and boots, I'm all done.
"Alright, you can look now." I say, but I'm already walking towards my window without another spare to the mirror. I'm not that vain.
"Wow," was all he said and I know he's referring to my attire, but I could care less. He beat me to the window and is already out before I know it. Damn coordination skills.
He holds out his hand to me, looking expectant. I stare at his hand, then at him.
"This night had better be worth it Snow." I spat out, taking his hand and turn to quietly close my window.
He grins. "Of course it will be Lia."
[Cue in Greyson Chance's 'Sunshine and City Lights']
Luck was definitely on our side that night as we managed to slip away from the neighborhood without a trace that we had left our rooms. Jack decided that we take a train towards the city; I went with his plan since I had no idea of what to do, or how to do it. It's Jack usually who plans out these sort of things, not me. I'm more organized and planned when it comes to chores, homework and stuff.
As we got into the train, Jack and I talked into our seats about school, our siblings, and then went to discuss the latest gossip and intriguing historical facts off from Tito Lito's lesson, Hiccup's current issues and whatever came into our minds. This was so natural of us, simply talking, arguing and poking fun at almost anything. I like how our friendship wasn't awkward the way it would seem back at home. In Filipino culture, if you were best friends with a guy, which would equate that the two of you were dating. Well, that or you were gay or were friendzoned too much. But here, it was just natural. No malice at all. The train ride lasted only for almost an hour.
Once we've arrived at New York, I can hardly keep my excitement. I'm finally seeing the Big Apple with my very two eyes, the City that never sleeps, New York!
Jack takes me by the hand and quickly leads me out the train, but when we reach the stairs, he tells me to close my eyes but don't let his hand go. At first, I thought it was a prank. But he promised me that it was going to be worth it, the excitement in his voice was very assuring. I went with it and followed him leading me up, through a mighty fine of streets and people before he finally told me to open them.
And let me tell you, they do not lie when they say that New York was a city that did not sleep.
It was so bustling and alive! So beautiful and bright! So...shiny. And we were in Times Square for crying out loud! I felt like I could cry tears of joy, but held it in when Jack appeared from my side, admiring my vibrant smile.
"Like it?" Nod.
"It's beautiful Jack..." I whisper.
"I know. C'mon, we'll miss the show!"
"Huh? What show?"
He smirks, grabbing my hand and leading me to one of the theaters. "You'll see."
He took me to watch The Wizard of Oz; I didn't know they were still showing that. But apparently, Jack tells me that the owner does re-run of old movies every Friday. I was glad I got to relive my childhood, I love that movie.
After the movie, we went to a souvenir shop and bought two 'I heart NY' shirts. It was very cliché. But it was rather cute; I finally have another souvenir shirt to my collection at home. I currently have nine; the one I'm wearing will be my tenth. Booyah! The photo booth came afterwards, we took amazing shots of ourselves and together. Additional souvenirs, awesome!
After that, Jack and I had snuck into an old apartment and bought up some balloons, filled them with water and pelted them at hapless passerbyers. It was mortifying at first, throwing at innocent passerbyers, but soon, I found myself laughing at our harmless little prank. When someone took note of us, we tried to make a run for it. Luckily, he lost us on Main Avenue where Jack managed to steal a bike. I jumped behind him and he pedaled along the night, taking me deeper into the city life.
At exactly twelve midnight, Jack treats me to McDonald's for a midnight snack. I willingly oblige since I didn't eat much from dinner. Two quarter pounds plus large French fries and two sundaes later, and we're at the park at my request. It was amazing what joys street performers can do and give you for entertainment. At one point, Jack managed to borrow a guitar and obliged me to play. I tried to turn it down, but the owner wanted to see me play since Jack told him I was an awesome guitarist. So, I decided that I would play against my will starting off with Sungha Jung's 'Pirates of the Carribean' and 'Canon', earning tips from people and their applause. Even against my will, I was glad I played.
So this was why I couldn't go to sleep earlier, fate had decided that I was to spend this late hour with Jack, my best friend.
We're at some park, sitting on the benches side by side, enjoying the night out. Jack watching me from the corner of his eye, I pretend not to notice.
"Alrighty then," he suddenly says, there's playfulness in his tone that means serious business "now let's play a little game! Lia, your wrist please," he says, opening his palms and awaiting me to put my wrist. I look at him suspiciously, wondering if he's going to do something.
Deciding to trust Jack, I turn to face him, my leg on either side of the bench, and my wrist on his hand. He holds my wrist firmly, I willingly do the same. This seems familiar.
"Okay, what are we playing?"
He smirks, oh boy.
"Oh it's just plain ol' rock-paper-scissors, with a little twist. You see, whoever loses says a bit of themselves. If you fail to say something, I'll slap your wrist."
I arch a brow at him. "Why are we playing this?"
Jack's expression softens ultimately, a shy expression marring his face. "I just want to know you better Li. And this is the only way I know I can." That, he is correct, being Mr. Fun-and-Games and all. I go along.
"Honesty." I add. I'm a bit curious to know Jack better myself; this game piqued my full attention.
"Honesty." he promises.
We start, we hold out our fists three times. Rock for me, Scissors for Jack. Ha!
"I'm a huge fan of Harry Potter, Percy Jackson and Narnia. I have the complete collection of each book at home." he admits shyly, a small blush spreading from his cheeks.
Whoa, never knew he was a fan of magic themed-literature. I'm much more shocked that he never mentioned this to me at all! I giggle at this, earning a hue of pink to cross his cheeks.
We play again, I win again. Paper against Rock.
"I love Winter season more than I love fiction literature."
"Why?" I find myself asking. I feel like cheating. "Is asking part of the game?" he nods. "But only one question though. Why you ask? Well, I'm not sure really...Probably because I was born in Winter, or that Emma was also born in Winter...I don't know actually. It just felt like a connection, me and the season. And I know I sound crazy but, it's like, the season calls for me. It's me. It's a part of me..."
"Okay, I get it."
We play again, I win once more. Scissor against Paper.
He groans, "I've always wanted to dye my hair white."
"Why?"
"Because it's the color of snow!" I roll my eyes. "Of course."
When we play again, Jack wins this time. Rock against Paper.
I take a deep breath, thinking of what I could say. The first thing that comes to mind slips right out of my mouth.
"I had 2 brothers back at home who watched over me when our parents worked abroad."
"What were their names?" I look into his eyes; I know I can trust him. Why hold back? "Joshua and Kenneth. Kuya Jag, Joshua, was the oldest, 22 years old who was taking his Majors in History with an athletic scholarship. Kuya Kenny, Kenneth, was the older, 19 years old, a guitarist in his band and taking Development Communication."
Going again, I lost again. Scissors against Rock.
"I used to be a Swimmer."
"Used to be?" I nod. "I could hold my breath for 10 minutes underwater. Got medals and awards for my participation, and I somewhat retained my complexion no matter how long I swam."
"What-"
SMACK!
"Ow!"
"Uh-uh, one question only remember?" I say with a smug. He rubs his aching wrist and turns to the game. I win this time, Paper against Rock.
"I used to have a crush on Miss Elina." That wasn't surprising, I always suspected that there was something going on between them.
Playing again, I lost. Rock against Paper.
I suddenly felt the need to finish my last statement. "I can't swim anymore because, I-I've grown to fear it."
Jack is ultimately taken aback, brows turned upward in wayward concern. "Why?"
The tears manifest in my eyes, I blink to fight them away. When he notices this, he brings up his hand to tuck a hair behind my ear and cups my face. "You don't have to tell me if you don't want to." Those brown eyes, they're filled with regret and sorrow. Nodding, I promised that I'd tell him soon. He holds unto my promise and we continue, I lost again. Paper to Scissors.
"Me and my parents, we're...not on good terms. Kind of, distant." I mumble, not meeting his eye.
"Care to share?"
I want to hesitate, but find that I couldn't. Earlier's image is getting to me, and then I find myself exhaling bad omens, and then I open my mouth. "Ever since Dad left when I was 7 for the Middle East, Mom's been the one looking for me. I barely knew or spoke to him face to face. And then when something bad happened to his company, he came back...which was, the happiest year of my life. After a year, he left for the States. He found a good job there, and stayed. When Kuya Jag had troubles with college, and the debts piled up, my Mom decided to follow my Dad to the States and worked there as well. I was only 9, and she left in such a hurry. With just me and my brothers, I had never felt so alone and fragile in my whole life. I knew that they left just so they could fend for their children, but you should know that having parents around in your childhood days, is the most crucial part of their growth and development as a person. Mine were so much in a hurry to leave me. I kept reminding myself everyday of their sacrifices, but I couldn't stop myself from being jealous with my friends who had both their parents around. I was so alone."
"Were you really alone?" He asked. But it wasn't part of the game anymore, it was a real question.
I shook my head slowly, smiling faintly. "No, I had my brothers after all. I was their baby sister, and they were very overprotective of me. Kuya Jag took his role as the eldest almost immediately, and Kuya Kenny made it sure that his role would not waver as well. They were so cool when they pledged that. I miss them..." I trailed off sadly. I really do.
Jack's calloused hand tugs my wrist and I look up at him, he's offering me his usual smile. It's so full of him - bright, cheerful, warm and calm. It just drives the bad omens away.
"Last two, and then we're done." he says, I oblige.
I lost first; I fumble with this thought out of my head. Taking one deep breathe before I'm ready to say my part.
"Despite everything that's happened in my life - all the messed up and tidied up pieces - I'm thankful that you were the first friend I had here in this continent. You're an awesome best friend, Jack Snow." I'm flushing hard, but I don't really notice. Jack's eyes widen in bewilderment, like he's seeing me for the first time. A blush crept his cheeks, before the corners of his mouth twitches into a smile.
His turn to lose.
"S-Since you're my best friend, I t-think you should be the first to know." I nod, interest piquing up to full level. He clears his throat "T-There's this girl that I really like who is just, she's just...just...whoa. I mean, she's really spunky yet completely dense time to time, but like, the most compassionate and selfless girl I've ever met apart from Emma. I know she's really preoccupied with a lot of things in life. But, I just wish that...she never goes away, ever."
A heavy pang of jealousy suddenly fills me, I don't get why. I shrug it off.
"Well, whoever she is, I'm betting she's lucky to have a guy as fun-loving and free-spirited like you. You two sound compatible." he laughs nervously, retrieving his hand from my wrist to run it through his hair.
"Haha, thanks..."
I don't know why, but I feel like I'm at war with him. There's a front that I don't see in him, and it's making me curious but at the same time out of my league. I ignore the feeling completely.
"Time check, its 2:46 AM," he announces, leaping off the bench and turns to stretch his arms over his head. "time to go Lia."
An unladylike yawn escapes from my mouth as I finally feel exhausted and drowsy. Jack suddenly flinches and turns to me.
"Oh, oh, Lia, c'mon hurry up! We gotta do something before we go!"
"Which is?" I inquire, stretching my legs from my sitting position.
"Just stand up Lia!" He's rather excited, so it must be worth it. Succumbing to his ways, I take his hand and allow him to drag me all the way to this very, very, large fountain. He hands me a coin, the tip we had earlier. "Let's make a wish on this fountain before we leave."
"You and your childish antics Jack..." I say lightly, clasping the coin close entrusting my wish to this innocent coin.
"Done?" I nod.
On three, we toss the coin to the fountain while looking away. The plop alarms us that the coins have sunk into the water; our wishes going to the depths waiting for the day that it will come true.
One long train ride, a half and a mile walk to our subdivision and one successful climb up the tree later...
On tiptoe steps, I successfully entered my room with a sigh of relief. I turn to Jack, smiling tiredly yet gratefully for the late night escapade.
"Thanks for the night Jack." I say softly. He smirks, but this time, it's of sincerity.
"Anytime Li, 'til next time." I nod.
He takes me by surprise as he leans up to kiss my cheek. When I look up at him, he's already climbing into his room and closing his window shut. He left me hanging.
Absentmindedly, I touch my cheek where he had kissed me.
I don't bother changing out of my jeans as wrap myself into the comforts of my blanket, and bury my head into my pillow. I'm finally at ease and certain. With these happy thoughts filling my head, I let my heavy eyelids shut and drown my consciousness to sleep with one final thought as a faint smile spreads across my face.
This has been the greatest day of my life.
12/30/12. So much name change had to be done. I just had to get in touch with the movie details.
I was in a rush when I wrote the New York scene. I know there was a distance, but who cares? NOT ME! *curls moustache*
BOOYAH! One more chapter and I'm finally free from this four-shot! Go me, Go me, Go me! HAHAHAHAHA.
Yeah, she's dense. Completely dense. NAHAHAHAHA, I like dense heroines. I can't wait to finish Winter. IT'S MAH FAVORITE THING TO WRITE NOW! BAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA~