27/28
🌼A Wish🌼
Chapter 27
The silence was really thick and uncomfortable. The only thing that could be heard was the swishing sound coming from the white and gold coloured ceiling fan. With each seconds that pas-sed, i could feel my heartbeat racing and my palms were getting sweaty as i stared at Xavier who’sl-ips were pressed together in a thin line. He seemed to be de-ep in thought. Felling embarras-sed and ashamed, i stood up and wanted nothing more than to get out of the suffocating room, but my wrist was held back by a big and warm hand before i could even take a step. Xavier hand never left my wrist and he gently pu-ll-ed me back down on the be-d.
I fidgeted un-der his pene-trating gaze. “What is your opinion about all i just said?”
“Xavier li-cked hisl-ips and held my hand in his. The feeling of his warm hand on mine made me give his hand a gentle squee-ze. ” i will support whatever choice you make, Brielle, because i want you to be happy.”
“I’m alre-ady happy with you.” I tried reasoning but i dont think Xavier is going to start a debate with me.
His hands left mine and moved upwards to my shoulders, holding me in a firm yet gentle grip. “Listen to me Brielle, Ava is right, living in a state where you’ve been abused for years is not healthy.”
“Liam cant hurt me anymore.” I told Xavier in a soft voice. “He’s locked up in jail.”
“I know and i wont ever let him come close to you or hurt you, but plea-se listen to me when i say that Ava suggestion for you is a really good idea.”
C-can i have time to think about it?” I asked my eyes ma-king a trip down to stare down at the tiled floor. “This is kind of a big b!ow to me and i nee-d time to think.it over.”
Xavier tilts my chin up to meet his eyes, his f!ngersgently brushing strands of loose hair behind my ears. “I know it c@m£ out as a big shock to you and it must have been unexpected. So dont worry, you have enough time to think it over.”
It was quiet for some minutes and i subconsciously leaned away from Xavier, clasping my hands together.
“Um Xavier, we nee-d to talk about where you’re going to be schooling for college.” I silently curse my myself for allowing my voice to crack.
Xavierl-ips tugged up. Is he really serious? This is not the time to smile. “Why should we talk about college? Dont you want me to graduate?”
“Yes.” I quic-kly responded. Xavier’s question really shocked me. Of course i want him to graduate, am not wishing anyone bad luck.
“If that’s the case, i dont see the reason why we should talk about where i’ll be schooling.” Xavier voice has somewhat got dee-per.
“I’m just tensed about the location and state.” I gritted out, getting frustrated with his oblivious behaviours.
“Why?” Oh, that was the last straw Xavier.
“For God sake!” I got up and threw my hands up in exasperation. “Why? I’m scared Xavier! I dont want to be far away from you. I’m scared that you’ll breakup with me because of college! What if you meet another girl there? Older and more mature! Then what will happen to me? Will i be left behind?!”
Outraged, Xavier got up from the be-d and stormed towards me. The impact made me quic-kly move backwards till i collided with the cold surface of the wall. The storm in Xavier’s eyes were evident as he stared down at me. “Zi-p it Brielle, just Zi-p it!”
“Why the hell will you even think like that, huh? Do you nee-d more convincing or words to tell you how i feel about you?” Xavier only got furious when i didn’t respond.
“Another girl? Why will you say something like that? Dont you trust me?” His voice had gone softer in the last s£ntence.
“I do trust you Xavier.” I answered in a shaky voice. “More than i trust anyone else.”
“Then why will you think i will cheat on you if you indeed trust me?” I dont know what makes me feel guilty, the fact that Xavier isn’t yelling at me like i thought he would or because his expression exhibits nothing but hurt.
“I just thought that when you get to college, you will lose interest in me and move on with another girl. Dont look at me like that, it may happen.” I said quietly, ti-ght£ñing my hands into a fist.
Xavier shook his head and sighed, stepping closer to me and taking my hands in his. “You’ve been so worked up about where am going to school, right?”
I nodded eagerly and Xavier continued talking.
“So, i s£nt an application to six colleges in different states and i got accepted in four. One is in San Francisco, the, the second one is in Los Angelo’s, the third is Nebr@ska and finally the fourth is in New York.”
I gulped, taking my bo-ttoml!pbetween my teeth and b!tt!g ha-rd on it. “Which of the state do you want to go to?”
Xavier’s hands left mine and i instantly missed the warmth that encircled my hand when he held them in his. He took a step backward but his tall frame still hovered over me.
“I choosed New York because it was more closer and i didn’t want to be far away from you.”
“I’m sorry.” I blurted out. I didn’t know what else to say but i knew that i’ve messed up big time. Apologizing like that to Xavier will only make it look like a mockery to him.
As i foretold, Xavier didn’t say anything. Without sparing me a single glance, Xavier whirled around and casually strode out of my room, his hands shoved inside his pockets. Immediately after he left, another door that could also be used to exit the room opened, and Ava plodded in, her eyes meeting mine. I didn’t bother to question her and just walked over to my be-d, sitting down on it as i stared blankly at the floor.
“You heard all that, didn’t you?”
Ava scratched the back of her n£¢k. “I really didn’t want to eavesdrop, i was coming from the kitchen when i heard loud voices so i hanged around and listened to you two. Also, i stayed around incase you two argument will turn into a serious fight.”
“Xavier will never hit me, Ava.”
“I know that.” Ava said, rolling her eyes. “I’m talking about a fight that usually ends up in tears.”
“We may have not fought with each other.” I sniffed. “But this argument was really intense, its not like all the previous arguments we’ve had.” I wiped a tear that sli-pped down from my eyes, using my sleeve.
“I messed up big time, Ava.” Myl-ips quivered as i spoke. “Xavier thinks that i dont trust him and now, he probably hates my guts.”
“Oh Bestie.” Ava sat down beside me and ru-bbe-d my shoulder. “Just give him some time, and dont ever say that Xavier doesn’t love you because he does, a lot.”
“He shouldn’t.” I blew out a breath, feeling my eyes sting with unshed tears. “I doubted his love and now he’s really hurt.”
“Ava.”
“Mhmm?” Ava ru-bbe-d my shoulder, her eyes swirling with concern and worry.
“Do you think it will be better if Xavier and i just break up?”
Ava eyes wi-de-ned. “Brielle! How can you say that? Dont even think about saying something like that cause you and Xavier will be heartbroken. And besides, Xavier is a strong-willed boy. He wont let you go like that.” When i didn’t respond, Ava took it as a cue to continue.
“Xavier loves you and you love him so what are you afraid of? The fact that he’s going to college? You know Xavier, Brielle. He rejected his ex girlfriend in front of you and he told her that he only loves you. So what if girls try to make a move on Xavier while he’s in college? Xavier is trust worthy abd he wont fall for their charms.”
“Do you think he will ever forgive me?” I asked quietly, my f!ngerstracing zig-zag lines on the sheets.
“He will.” Ava said firmly. “Tomorrow, apologize to him and if he’s still reluctant to talk to you then give him sometime.”
Sighing, i brou-ght my knees up to my che-st, mumbling a soft. “Okay.” Ava and i both talked throu-gh out the whole evening, her trying to lighten my mood with chats about movie stars and musicians. When it was nighttime, we changed into our pajamas and got on the big king-sized be-d. I wasn’t sleepy yet so i pla-yed some games on my phone. A small yawn escaped myl-ips as my eyes were alre-ady feeling heavy. I placed my phone on the table and got comfortable on the be-d, shutting my eyes close as i tried so ha-rd not to think about the argument Xavier and i had.
~*~*~
The next day. I woke up to see that it was alre-ady 8:00 am. Ava was not on the other side of the be-d and i heard some rustling sounds coming from the bathroom, and the door opened. Ava walked in, her hair dripping we-t with a green towel wra-pped around her che-st.
“Looks like someone had an amazing bath.” I got down from the be-d and stretched both my arms out, re-leasing a loud yawn.
Ava grinned and picked up her travelling bag, placing it on t©p of the be-d. She Zi-pped it open and brou-ght out her small white towel, wra-pping it around her hair. “The bathtub is amazing and dont even get me started on the soap and shampoo.”
“With your sparking eyes, i would have as-sumed you bathed for more than thirty minutes.”
“Actually.” Ava gave a nervous laugh. “I bathed for two hours.”
My jaw dropped. “Ava! Seriously?”
“What?” She asked, her bo-ttoml-ips ticking out into a pout.”
“How can you bath for two hours!” I exclaimed. “Who even does that?”
Ava rolled her eyes. “I dont know how to answer your question, but try out the bathtub and you wouldn’t want to get out.” She happily skipped over to the walk-in closet. After Ava was done dressing up, i took off my clothes and gr@bb£d my towel before ma-king my way over to the bathroom. Well, this is unbelievable, Ava was actually right. The bathtub is almost like a h0t tub and the best p@rt of it was that it comes with a mas-sager.
I stepped out of the bathroom and dried myself up before shuffling throu-gh my bag in search for an outfit to wear today. Since the weather is h0t today, i decided to go with a simple blue tank t©p and one of my favourite blue jeans shorts, paired with my white converse. My previous shoulder-length hair now reaches my back so i just decided to let it down. I ambled downstairs to the living room, alre-ady feeling my heartbeat race at the thought of seeing Xavier. Damon, Alex and Johnny were all seated on the couch, watching ‘The flash.’
“Morning.” I greeted. Damon and Alex s£nt me a small wave while Johnny flashed me a cute smile before he got up and wra-pped his little arms around my w@!st. I chuckled and hvgged him back.
“Morning Brielle.” I ruffled his hair causing the little latter to whine and pla-yfully glare at me.
“Dont do that to my hair.” Johnny face morphed into a small frown and he raised his hands up, trying to fix his messy hair. “I have to make sure its always styled otherwise i wont look cool.”
“And who told you that?” I asked him, leaning down to his height.
“Damon. He’s cool and he said i should look cool for pretty girls.” Johnny said proudly.
I laughed and pla-yfully fli-cked his forehead. “Dont try to change your ways and style for anyone, just be yourself. Okay?”
“Okay!” He flashed me a hvge grin and made his way to sit down between Alex and Damon. I dropped down on the sofa, leaning my back against it as i stared at the television.
“Xavier!” I heard Johnny exclaim happily. “Good morning!” I turned towards the side to see Xavier descending down from the stairs. I averted my eyes to the tv when he his eyes locked with mine.
“Hey there bud, how was your night?” Christ, we only argued yesterday and here i am alre-ady missing his voice.
“It was fine and i dreamt about you and Brielle!” Johnny exclaimed. Now that’s just weird.
“Really?” Xavier asked, his tone dripping with amusement and disbelief. “What’s it about!”
“Brielle was working as a maid for a cruel landlord and his wife, they had two daughters who are really mean to Brielle. They always make fun of her and make her chores ha-rd . They were jealous of Brielle because she’s way prettier than them. So there was a news travelling around town that the king and queen were hosting a ball for the prince to pick a bride among all the the princesses and middle clas-s girls from different countries and cities. The landlady and his wife were rich so there were also given invitations. Brielle really wanted to go to the ball so she asked the landlord if she can also join them. He told her to finish all her chores and he also added extra chores for Brielle. Brielle finished all her chores on time and was then allowed to go to the ball. While the landlord daughters were dressed up expensive, Brielle wore a simple go-wn she once bought in the market. When they arrived at the castle, Brielle was ordered by the landlord wife to stay beside the food section and not interact with anyone who is richly dressed, while the he landlord daughters were seated at a long table, chatting with other princesses. Though Brielle didn’t mind hanging around the food section because she really loves eating.” I snickered at that, now fixing my attention on Johnny who was explaining his weird dream. Even Damon and Alex had paused the tv just to listen to their seven year old cousin.
“She does love eating.” Damon said smugly. I rolled my eyes and sh0t him a blank stare to which he grinned at before telling Johnny to continue.
“So while Brielle was eating a strawberry cheesecake, Xavier, the prince who had been talking with ladies from different countries was wandering around, because he was so bored. The other ladies he conversed with were really annoying so he quic-kly left them, saying he nee-ded to use the restroom. He was lazily walking around but st©pped when he sighted a girl, who was happily eating a strawberry cheesecake. Xavier walked closer to get a good look at her. He was attra-cted to Brielle’s beauty and simplicity. Her make up was simple and so was her blue dress that matched the colour of her eyes. Xavier walked up to her and said hi but only got ignored.
“I said hi.” Brielle only rolled her eyes and told him ‘Hello’
When Xavier didn’t leave, Brielle sighed and tried to converse with him even though its ha-rd . She was shocked, because the prince of all people was standing close to her and smiling at her. Xavier was really interested in knowing more about Brielle so he tried to engage Brielle in a conversation and was happy when she didn’t give him a stiff nod. Xavier asked Brielle to dance with him and she said yes. They both danced, catching the attention of everyone in the ball. Some were happy cause they looked so cute together while some were jealous, mostly girls. After the dance was over, Xavier was asked by the Queen to pick who he wants to be his princess. When he choose Brielle, everyone were shocked even Brielle. To prove his point, he walked towards Brielle and k!$$£d her in front of everyone. The Queen and King agreed because its their son’s choice. But Brielle’s landlord and his wife were furious, so were their daughters. Xavier and Brielle rode together in the castle carriage to get Brielle things before they went back to the castle and they both lived happily ever after. The end.” Johnny finished off with a smile.
“Now that was a slightly weird version of cinderella.” We all snapped our heads towards the stairs to see Emily and Ava standing in the last staircase.
“Cinderella is way better.” I said as i stood up to walk towards my room but Emily st©pped me by raising up her hand.
“Hold it right there young lady, you haven’t eaten breakfast so march down right to the dining room.” She placed her hands on her h!p, giving me a scary stern glare.
“Alright ma’am.” I said, chuckling nervously and leaning towards Alex who was the closest to me.
“Is she always like this?” I whispered.
“Only when she’s in her mama bear mode.” He whispered back.
“Dont you all like my story of Xavier and Brielle?” Johnny whined.
Xavier sm-irked. “So you say it is a story, i thought it was a dream.”
Johnny eyes wi-de-ned and he awkwardly lowered his head down, his feet bouncing back and forth. “It isn’t a dream, i made it all up because i wanted to create a story.”
Xavier chuckled and crouched down to Johnny’s height, tilting his chin up. “I un-derstand you bud, but why did you have to use cinderella concept?”
“It inspired me.” Johnny defended
“Aw.” Ava cooed. “Little Johnny loves watching princess tales, isn’t that cute.”
Johnny cheeks flu-shed. “I only watched it thrice.”
“Dont worry about it bud.” Damon picked Johnny up and placed a k!sson his forehead. “There’s nothing wrong in watching princess tales.”
“Alright Everyone, chatting time is over and now its time to have breakfast, so move it.” Emily ordered. We all walked to the dining room and sat down. The food all looks delicious and i quic-kly reached out for a warm sandwich. While Emily was engaged in a conversation with Damon, Ava and Alex. I stared at Xavier. His eyes looked blank and tired. He still manages to pu-ll of a model look with his messy hair and casual polo t©p. He had on nike shorts and a pair of white converse. The fact that we didn’t acknowledge each other pres£nce is really hurting me.
“What do you think about my story that features on Xavier and Brielle, Mummy?” Johnny asked Emily.
Emily smiled softly at him. “Its really wonderful, and it was nice of you to use Xavier and Brielle.”
“Yep.” Johnny popped the p. “They both really love each other.” My heartbeat hied at his words and i pushed my plate away. Love each other? How can Xavier love a girl who doesn’t fully trust him. Feeling my eyes brim with tears, i pushed my chair backwards and got up. The concerned and worried eyes from the whole table made me subconsciously lower my head.
“Excuse me plea-se.” My voice cracked as i spoke softly. Not sparing them a glance, i quic-kly ran to the bathroom and broke down in tears. I dont know how long i was in the bathroom, crying. But when i got out Ava was seated on the large king-sized be-d, a worried expression covering her features. When i stepped out of the bathroom and closed the door, Her head rose up.
“Why are you in here?” I asked as i walked towards the be-d to l@ydown on it.
“I was concerned about you when you ran off like that so i c@m£ here to see how you were doing, but it seems like your puffy red eyes has said it all.”
“Leave me alone, Ava.” I brou-ght my arm up and covered my eyes with it. “I want to be alone.” Instead of leaving, Ava yanked my arm from my eyes and pu-ll-ed me up to a sitting position.
“I cant sit down and pretend that everything is alright when i see that my bestie is troubled.” Ava got up and pu-ll-ed me up with her. “Incase you have forgotten, we only have a week to spend here so let’s make use of it while there is still time. We are going to get the boys to drive us to some places in colorado.” Before Ava could literally drag me out of the room, i held her hand.
“I dont think i’ll be able to go if Xavier is there.” I said in a subdued tone.
Ava sighed. “You cant stay up here and sulk forever, at least try to go out. You’re in another state Brielle, so why not try ma-king the best of it and tour colorado.”
“I guess you’re right.” I mumbled wearily.
“That’s the sprit girl.” Ava said as herl-ips split up into a large grin. “Lets get the boys.” We walked out of the room, Ava holding my right hand and me shuffling behind her. Ava and i walked from one room to the other but we still couldn’t find the boys, so we decided to head over to the game room to see if they were there. The game room should actually have been the first place Ava and i could’ve check in on. Xavier, Damon and Alex were all pla-ying video games, laughing as the tea-sed each other. The smile that pla-yed on Xavier’sl-ips made my heart swirl with warmth. Just seeing him smile made me really happy.
“Guys.” Ava called, hitting the door to get their attention. Damon picked up a remote and paused the game before turning to face me and Ava.
“This better be important, Ava, cause we were all in the middle of something till you and Brielle decided to show up here.” Alex said as he got up and walked over to a drawer, pu-lling it open and placing the gamepad inside. At the mention of my name, Xavier looked up and stared at my eyes, his piercing grey orbs boring holes on my face and i didn’t dare to look at him. I quic-kly averted my gaze to a desk.
Xavier got up and walked towards us. “Is there anything you nee-d?” He asked Ava softly. He didn’t even spare me a look.
“Brielle and i want a tour in colorado and we were hoping that you guys will take us out, to show the both of us how colorado is.”
“That’s a great idea.” Damon git up and ran inside the walk-in closet, later returning with a pair of black converse in his hand.
“We dont have to go anywhere.” I mumbled causing Ava smile to drop and she sh0t me a death glare. I roll my eyes and ignore her completely. I cant believe i agreed to this because right now, i wanted nothing more than to avoid a certain grey eyed boy who was staring at me.
~*~*~
The heat radiating from the sun made my b©dy feel a little h0t but the orange umbrella that is above me is really helpful. We arrived at a beach after Damon had drove us to different places in colorado. Currently, am sitting on a barstool watching Ava and Damon talk with a bunch of volleyball pla-yers. Alex and Xavier were several feet away from me, talking to each other. I did see Xavier eyes fli-cker to me once in a while. Someone plopped down on the barstool beside mine, causing me to twist my head to the side. A drop-dead handsome boy with blond curly hair and ocean blue eyes was staring at me. He had on a black tank t©p paired with blue nike shorts. Confusion settled on my face when i saw that the corner of hisl-ips were curled up. What is he sm-irking about?
As if re-ading my thoughts, he spoke up. “I know that am h0t, babe, so you can check me out if you wanna.” He flashed me a flir-ty wi-nk.
My cheeks heated up in embarras-sment. “I wasn’t checking you out, j£rk.”
“That’s what they all say, baby girl.”
“Can you plea-se st©p calling me baby girl?” I snapped.
He sm-irked. “Why? If you dont like the name baby girl, i can always call you darling.”
“I’m outta here.” I got up and tried to walk pas-s him. Keyword tried. The handsome j£rk actually has the nerve to pu-ll me back down. I glared daggers at him and he sighed.
“Okay, i’m sorry and i promise. No flir-ting.”
“So how do we do this?” The boy asked awkwardly.
I chuckled and twirled my barstool around. “You can start by introducing yourself.”
The boy smile and stretched his arms out. “Hi, i’m Jordan, Jordan Evans.”
I shook his hand. “Nice to meet you Jordan, am Brielle.”
“Brielle.” He tested my name. “Beautiful name for a very gorgeous girl.” He win-ked.
I crossed my arms and glared at Jordan. “I thought you promised that no flir-ting.”
Jordan raised his hands up in a mock surrender. “Sorry miss grumpy.”
“So tell me something.” I rested my elbows on the table.
“About what?” He asked.
“Anything.” I said, shrugging. “Family, friends, school. Your choice.”
Jordan smiled. “I have five older brothers.”
“Whoa, really?”
“Yep, Micheal, my older brother who is also my legal guardian.”
“What about your parents?” I asked him, wondering why his brother is he’s legal guardian.
“They died in a plane crash.” He said, a sad expression featuring his face.
I gave him a small smile and held his hand, squee-zing it gently. “They’ll be really proud and happy seeing their son all grown up.”
“Thanks Brielle.” Jordan said with a small smile on his face.
“So how are your brothers?” I asked, changing the subject of his parents.
“Micheal, the oldest, is really strict, stern and intimid@t!ng. Elijah, the second oldest, is like the mom of the house but he can be also scary at times. Leo, the third oldest, he is a genius and is really good in computer, he is really nice. Adam, the fourth oldest, he’s cold and is always angry so i try as much to avoid him in the house. Then lastly Sam, the fifth oldest, he is Adam twin. Sam is the only one who can control Adam when he’s getting angry. Sam is really nice but can be scary if he wants to.”
“So you’re the baby.” I cooed. “How cute.”
“Its not.” Jordan grumbled. “They can be really annoying sometimes. And its not fair if i get punished for sneaking out to p@rties.”
“They are just bring protective.” I tell Jordan, taking a sip out of my strawberry jui-ce.
“Overprotective is the right word in this case.” Jordan chastised. “So now that you know about my family, tell me something about you.”
I shrugged. “There is nothing really interesting about me, i live with my b©yfri£ndand his brothers, we c@m£ here to colorado for a little vacation. My best friend is also here with us.”
“Um Brielle, your b©yfri£nddoesn’t have dark blond hair and grey eyes. Does it?”
“He does, how did you know?”
“Because i can see a guy with all those description heading towards us and he doesn’t look very happy.” Jordan said nervously. “I dont want to die young so i’ll make a run for it, see you later Brielle!” He got up and ran towards the opposite direction before i could say anything. I sipped my jui-ce, pretending that i couldn’t see the shadow hovering over me.
Instead of getting angry, Xavier surprised me by saying. “Can we plea-se talk?” In a really soft voice.
🌼A Wish🌼
Chapter 28
“Y-you, um want to talk to me. About what?” I asked after the five minutes of unbearable silence was killing me.
Xavier inhaled a shaky breath and re-leased it, his grey eyes finally meeting mine. “I’m sorry for how i behaved yesterday.”
“You shouldn’t be saying sorry to me!” I exclaimed, shocked that he told me sorry. “I was the one who hurt you, so why are you saying you’re sorry?”
Xavier leaned closer over the table and took my hand in his, gently squee-zing it. “Because i know that you’re in a ha-rd debating situation. You’ve been hurt countless times and it made you to be self-conscious about trust.”
I shook my head and withdrew my hand from his, pursing myl-ips. “I do trust you Xav, but i dont trust some college girls.”
“Hey, look at me.” I met his softened expression, feeling my heart swirl with warmth when he placed a soft k!sson my forehead. “No other girl will ever st©p me from looking at you, i love you and that’s all that matters.”
No word c@m£ out of my mouth, even when i tried to speak. Xavier stood up from the chair and pu-ll-ed my stiff form up with him, wra-pping his arms around me.
A tear sli-pped down from my eyes and soon, i was sobbing hysterically. My cries c@m£ out muffled since i was pressed against my b©yfri£ndche-st.
Xavier ru-bbe-d my back, his de-ep voice murmuring soothing words in my ear. “I’m sorry Xavier. I’m really sorry!”
“Its okay Brielle.” Xavier consoled. “You dont have to apologize.”
I pu-ll-ed back from the hvg, ru-bbing my nose and sniffing. “No. I had hurt you with my words and yelled at you.”
“I promise Brielle, i’m not mad at you anymore and i had forgiven you right after our argument so plea-se dont beat yourself on about it.”
“You’re too kind and patient with me.” I mumbled. “You dont deserve an annoying and br@tty girlfriend like me.”
“Brielle.” Xavier sighed, pu-lling me closer to him and holding my shoulders in a firm grip. “You’re not annoying and br@tty, st©p saying that about yourself.”
“I’m sorry.” I apologized in a quiet tone. “I guess i still feel guilty about our argument, yesterday. I was worried Xavier, the thought of you hating me or breaking up with me was too painful to imagine.”
“You’re not getting rid of me so easily, princess.” Xavier k!$$£d my forehead. “Cause i wont ever leave you.”
My cheeks instantly turned crimson red. “You really have ways with words.”
Xavierl-ips curled up to the side. “Really? Then i should always get a gift whenever i compliment you or tell you sweet pick up lines so wh-”
“Pick up lines are Damon’s specialty.” I interrupted.
Xavier pe-cked the corner of my mouth. “Don’t interrupt me Brielle.”
“Well i am truly sorry prince charming.” I said sarcastically.
“Dont sas-s with me.” Xavier held my eyes in a stern gaze. “So as i was saying before my lovely girlfriend interrupted me. Since i always compliment you, i should get a gift. So how about we seal this beautiful moment with a k!ss?”
blu-shing, i craned my n£¢k up and placed a quic-k k!sson his cheek.
Xavier frowned. “That’s it? You just gave me a pe-ck.”
I inwardly rolled my eyes and leaned in to k!ssXavier, but it seems like he keeps on getting tall. Standing on my ti-ppy toes, i wra-pped my arms around Xavier n£¢k and placed myl-ips on his. We both pu-ll-ed away after some seconds and Xavier rested his forehead on mine.
“Now that was a real k!ss.”
“It has only been few hours since we last talked and yet i really missed you.”
I expected Xavier to give me one of his light smiles that always brightens up my day but instead, sadness flashed in his eyes.
Concerned, i t©uçhed his cheek and gently ca-ressed it with my thumb. “What’s wrong Xavier?”
“Let’s go somewhere more pri-vate.” Xavier held my hand and led me to a gras-sy field. We walked to a park and st©pped in front of a pla-yground.
Xavier stared at one of the swings before looking at me. “Do you want to get on one of the swings?”
I shook my head and leaned my shoulder against the metal iron of the swing. “No thanks, am fine with standing. You want to talk to me about something?”
Xavier sighed and stepped closer to me, taking my hand in his. “I love you Brielle and i really wish i can stay with you.”
My eyebrows knitted together in confusion. “I dont un-derstand, Xavier. What are you talking about?”
“Tell me Brielle.” Xavier eyes held mine in such an intense stare, i tried to look away but he held my chin. “You were so down because of our fight and you missed me, so tell me Brielle. How will you feel knowing that am four hours away in another state.”
My mood dampened. I un-derstand what Xavier trying to tell me. I’ve gotten so close to him that am not sure how i will handle it if he goes to New york. Cmon Brielle, you can do this. Xavier still has two weeks to spend with you before he goes to college so you should be grateful that he’s right here with you.
Giving Xavier a genuine smile, i re-moved his hand that was gripping my chin and squee-zed it. “I’ll manage.” Those two words were enough for Xavier to feel relieved, and his stiff shoulders instantly relaxed as a beautiful smile pla-yed on hisl-ips.
“You’re not mad, are you?” Xavier asked hesitantly.
“No.” I said with a genuine smile on my face. “I’m not.”
“You’re so unique.” Xavier engulfed me in his arms and i was filled in with the scent of his manly cologne, only that it was different. I wrinkled my nose and gently pushed him away.
“Did you change your cologne? Because this scent is really different from the one you usually put on.”
“My own got finished so i borrowed one of Alex.” He explained.
“But i prefer the one you usually use.” I whined.
Xavier chuckled and k!$$£d my eyebrow. “I will buy you a whole set of perfume it if you want.”
“That’s really nice of you but i alre-ady have my own perfume.”
“Dont you want something of mine to have when i leave for college?” Xavier asked, feigning a hurt expression.
“Of course i do!” I exclaimed. “That’s such a smart idea Xavier, get me five of the cologne cause i wouldn’t mind spraying them to school!”
“People are going to think you’re weird if you spray too much of it.”
“Well guess what, i dont care.” I fli-pped my hair to the side dramatically.
Xavier chuckled and looked up at the sky. “We should go meet the others cause its starting to get late and i dont want to receive a lecture from Aunt Emily.” His eyes fli-ckered down to his silver watch. “How on earth is it alre-ady 4pm.”
“Time works in a weird way.” I responded nonchalantly.
Xavier rolled his eyes. “Yeah it does. Lets go Bri.”
“Piggy back ride?” I asked, grinning up at Xavier.
“Sure.” He smiled and crouched down. I mounted on his back, encircling my arms around his che-st. Xavier supported me by holding my th!ghs so i wont fall down. He walked back to the beach with me on his back. Damon, Ava and Alex were alre-ady at the parking lot so Xavier had to walk a long way over to the parking lot, still giving me a piggy back ride.
I got down from Xavier’s back and watch him as he stretched his arms. “Are your arms hurt? Do you nee-d me to mas-sage them?” I asked, concerned.
Xavier gave me a reas-suring smile. “Just a bit so-re from being in one position for so long. Seriously, you dont even weigh a lot yet you eat like me.”
“Guess am one of those girls who eats a lot but will still end up having a small weight.” I stated proudly.
“Dont get all bo-” Xavier started but got interrupted by Damon.
“If you two dont get inside, i’ll take over the wheel and leave you two here.” He threatened in a ‘i’m not joking this time around’ tone.
“Sorry Mr Grumpy p@n-ts.” Xavier muttered, opening the car door and entering inside the driver’s seat. I got inside the pas-s£nger seat and buckled in my seatbelt.
“Wait, have you two alre-ady made up?” Ava asked excitedly. I nodded, feeling myl-ips tug up into a soft smile.
She squealed and hvgged me. “I’m so happy that you two made up cause i was getting tired of all the frowning and glares.”
“I didn’t know you two were fighting.” Damon stared at me and Xavier curiously.
“I knew.” Alex said bluntly.
“When?” Damon asked.
“Today, i noticed that they were avoiding each other and Xavier’s mood was down.”
“How did i not notice all this?” Damon asked himself, placing his f!ngersun-der his chin as he pretends to think de-eply.
“Duh, because you’re stupid.” Xavier responded dryly.
Damon glared daggers at him. “Guys, am one second from pouring soda on Xavier.”
“Dont even think about doing that little brother.” Xavier gave Damon a stern glare throu-gh the review mirror causing the latter to glare at him before sinking in his seat.
“Why do you have to be so intimid@t!ng?” Damon muttered.
“Its in my blood baby brother.” Xavier responded casually.
“I’m not a baby.” Damon huffed. “Alex is.”
“Shut it Damon.”
~*~*~
“How do you girls like colorado so far?” Emily asked, handing out two cu-ps of cold pineapple jui-ce to me and Ava.
“I love it!” Ava exclaimed, a large grin on her face. “I met a couple of people and one of them invited me to his p@rty.”
“Hey, hey, hey.” Damon cut in. “Why was i not informed about this?”
Ava shrugged. “You didn’t ask.”
“Why wasn’t i invited to this so called p@rty?” Damon asked, his bo-ttoml!pjutting out into a pout.
“You were.” Ava finished all her jui-ce in one gulp, cringing at the cold temperature. “I forgot to notify you about it.”
“Yes.” Damon fist bu-mped the air. “So when is the p@rty?”
“Tommorow. Xavier, Brielle and Alex are also invited. I told the p@rty host about them and he said i can bring my friends if i want to.”
Alex who has been watching a movie in his l@pt©p, paused it and turned to face Ava. “I’ll have to pas-s because tommorow, am taking Johnny to his friend’s house, they are having a pla-yd@t£.”
Ava nodded and turned to me. “What about you Brielle? Are you going to the p@rty?”
“No, i’ll just stay in the movie room, watching Netflix and eating oreos.” Before she could say anything, i got up and walked up to my room. Well, the room where i stay as a guest.
I know it was pretty rude of me to just leave like that, but am feeling tired and drowsy. Not bothering to change, i climbe-d onto the be-d. My eyes moved upwards to the wall clock and it is alre-ady 6:30pm.
Yawning, i shifted comfortably on my be-d and shut my eyes, embr@cing the black abyss.
~*~*~
Day three. I’ve not really had enough fun in colorado but the mansion is really intriguing and it has a lot of games in the game room. The theatre room is really big, even hundreds of people can fit inside. Ava kind of got mad at me for the way i blew her off yesterday, but i apologized to her and now we’re good. Emily and i got to hang out for a long time. Even in her mid thirties, she still looks twenty three and is really fun to be with. Damon took Ava out on a d@t£, after that, they’ll both head over to the p@rty. Alex had alre-ady taken Johnny on his pla-yd@t£. Xavier is seated on a chair, scrolling throu-gh his phone while am lying down on his hvge soft king-sized be-d, just staring up at the white coloured ceiling.
“Brielle, who is that boy you were talking to yesterday?” Xavier shifted and on his chair and turned a little so that he was facing me.
“Jordan, super nice boy.” I responded, swinging my leg over to the side and sitting up straight.
“Right.” Xavier scoffed. I flashed him one of my sinister sm-irked, standing up to walk towards him.
“You don’t have to be jealous, Xavier. I only have eyes for you.” I wra-pped my arms around his n£¢k and leaned down to place a quic-k k!sson his cheek. Before Xavier could respond, i heard an excited squeal coming from the living room causing me to furrow my brows together in confusion.
“Um, is that Emily?” I asked uncertainly, knowing that Emily doesn’t have a manly squeal.
Xavier shook his head. “No, lets go see who it is.” He got up and held my hand as we walked downstairs to the living room. Emily was backing me and she was hvgging someone.
When Emily and the mystery person broke ap@rt, i was actually surprised to see that it was Jordan.
“Jordan?” I called, doing a double check to be sure that its him. I dazed about the fact that he is here.
He glanced at me over Emily shoulder, his eyes wi-dening into saucers. But soon, a large grin graced hisl-ips before he launched himself at me.
“Eek! I cant believe its you!” He squealed excitedly. “What are you doing here? Why are you here? Do you live here? Are you related to Auntie?”
“Okay, that’s enough Jordan.” Emily said, laughing. “How do you two know each other?”
“We met at the beach yesterday, he acts like a child.” I explained.
“Well, that is true.” Emily agrees, chuckling softly.
“Hey.” Jordan whined. “I’m seventeen and i find it insulting to be called a child.”
“Am i missing something here?” I was startled by Xavier voice and i completely forgot that he’s behind me. Jordan eyes wi-de-ned as he stared up at Xavier who was glaring daggers at him.
“H-hi.” Jordan squeaked, taking a step backwards and ru-bbing his arms as he visibly shrink un-der Xavier’s stare. Jordan and i were the same height so Xavier being taller than him is like a pure intimidation to him.
Xavier didn’t respond and just continued glaring daggers at Jordan who looked pale. I nudged Xavier in the rib, a little too ha-rd because he winced and turned his glare to me.
Glaring back at him, i mouthed. “Be nice.” Xavier only rolled his eyes in response and continue to glare at the poor boy who looked like a lost lamb.
I sh0t Emily a pleading look, hoping she can end the awkward tension. Thankfully, she un-derstood me.
Emily plastered a smile on her face and turned to Xavier. “Xavier, meet Jordan. Jordan, meet my nephew Xavier, he also has two younger brothers who are your age.” She introduced.
“H-hi, its nice to meet you.” Jordan stuttered, nervously stretching his arms out for a handshake. Xavier eyes stared down at Jordan outstretched hand before he looked back at him. He seemed to be having a debate on whether to accept a handshake from Jordan, but one scary glare from Emily was enough to make him budge.
Sighing, Xavier took Jordan’s hand in a firm but not so gentle grip. “Its nice to meet you too Jordan.” When Xavier let go off Jordan’s hand, the latter winced and ru-bbe-d his f!ngers.
“So.” I started. “How do you know Jordan, Emily?” Immediately i asked that question, Jordan tensed up as the muscles on his shoulders bec@m£ stiff.
Sadness clouded Emily’s eyes. “His mum and i were very good friends.”
I nodded in un-derstanding and s£nt her a gentle smile. Emily smiled back before she cleared her throat.
“You three should get to know each other while i’ll be in my room if you nee-d me.” Emily said as she leaned down and picked up her bag. “I alre-ady informed one of the maids to bring some snacks for you three incase you’re hungry.
“Thanks Emily.” I said and she nodded before walking towards the stairs.
“Would you like a quic-k tour around the mansion?” I blurted out to Jordan.
He chuckled and shook his head. “I’ve been visiting here for almost a year Brielle, so i should be the one giving you a tour.”
“Hey.” I protest. “I know every room, sto-res and other places in this mansion.”
“Says the girl who spent twenty minutes trying to search for my room.” Xavier stated, hisl-ips curling up to the side.
“I was confused.” I defended. Xavier and Jordan both snickered at that.
“So um, i still dont know a lot about you.” Jordan said, smiling.
“Her name is Brielle. She has a b©yfri£nd, two brothers and a female best friend.” Xavier said coldly. “That is all you should know about her.”
“Okay, i get it.” Jordan said quietly. “So i’ll be in the game room.” He gave me a f0rç£d smile and walked out of the living room before i could st©p him or utter a word.
Plastering one of my most threatening glare on, i turned to face Xavier. “What was all that?”
“I dont un-derstand.” Xavier said, feigning confusion.
“No. Seriously Xavier, that wasn’t very nice.” I remonstrate. “Jordan is only trying to be nice, you didn’t have to b!ow him off like that.”
“He said he wants to know more about you.” Xavier clenched his jaw. “Isn’t your name and age enough for him, so what else does he wants to know?”
“I’m hundred percent sure he meant it in a friendly way, Xavier.” I said firmly. “He cant even talk to me properly because he’s scared of you.”
“He should be.” Xavier gr-unted and i rolled my eyes.
“You really shouldn’t be so cold to Jordan, Xav.” I reached my hand out to fli-ck his forehead.
“He’s like another version of Damon, just less childish and besides, Emily has known him for such a long time which indicates that he’s good.”
“Why are you telling me all this?” Xavier asked with raised eyebrows.
I smiled. “Because i want you to give it a sh0t, Jordan will be the perfect best friend for you.”
“I alre-ady have male friends and i dont nee-d a best friend.” Xavier deadpanned.
“You and i both know that you ha-rd ly talk to the males at school so why not try Jordan out. You might like him.” I suggested.
“Fine.” Xavier grumbled, taking my hand in his. “But you’re coming with me.”
“Sure.” We walked to the game room and saw Jordan pla-ying a car racing game, an excited expression on his face.
“Hey Jordan.” I greeted as i made my way to sit down on a chair close to him.
He paused the game and turned to stare at me and Xavier, awkwardly scratching his n£¢k. “Um, hope you guys dont mind me pla-ying games?”
“Pl@ywhatever game you want.” Xavier said, a small smile pla-ying on hisl-ips. “I’ll also pl@ywith you, i love racing games.”
Stunned, Jordan could on swallow and mumble. “Okay.”
Xavier sat down beside Jordan and gr@bb£d a gamepad. I sat down and watch the two pla-y, Jordan constantly whining whenever Xavier beats him with points.
“I dont un-derstand how you’re so good at this.” Jordan huffed.
Xavier sm-irked. “No one can beat me in racing games that why they’re my favourite. Although, i will say that you’re the best among all the people i’ve pla-yed with.”
“That really makes me feel so much better.” Jordan said sarcastically.
Xavier laughed and went quiet after some seconds. “Jordan, i want to apologize. It was bad of me to treat you so unfairly, i’m sorry.”
Jordan smiled. “You’re forgiven bro, no ha-rd feelings.”
“Are you sure?”
“Yes, am sure.” Xavier smiled at Jordan response and fist bu-mped him, ma-king the latter face light up.
After the three of us hanged out for some hours, Xavier got a call from Alex. Apparently, Damon is drun!kand Ava cant carry him to the car so she nee-ds help. Alex has to stay with Johnny and he doesn’t want Johnny beside alcohol and drun!kteenagers, that’s why he he called Xavier.
Xavier used google map to find the location of where the p@rty was being held. The house was a nice duplex and it was spacious enough to contain more than fifty people. Xavier didn’t want me to go inside a house filled with drun!kteenagers so he made me stay beside the car with Jordan.
“Look away Brielle.” Jordan covered my eyes. “I dont think you want to see what i just saw two people doing.”
I sl@pped his hand away. “No nee-d to close my eyes Jordan, but thanks for warning me though.”
“You’re welcome.” He grinned. “So how are you brothers and best friend?”
“Alex and Damon aren’t really my blood related brothers, i just think of them as my brothers.” I explained.
Jordan nodded. “Are they nice? Do you think they’ll like me?” His tone had a hint of worry laced in it.
“They are the nicest people i know.” I tell him unwaveringly. “So they are going to like you, you have nothing to worry about.” He smiled at me in response and leaned against the car, that was when we both heard stomps and gr-unts. I looked over to the side and saw Xavier and Ava, walking side by side, with Damon thrown over Xavier shoulder.
“I thought he said he isn’t going to drink alcohol again, so how did all this happened?” I asked Ava, motioning to a ti-psy Damon.
“His jui-ce was spiked and i he had alre-ady had five of the jui-ce before i noticed that he was getting drun!k. I only had one drink though, that’s why am not drun!k.” Ava glanced at Jordan.
“And who is this cute blonde?”
“Jordan, the boy i told you about, the one i met at the beach.”
“Well Jordan, i’m Ava. Brielle’s best friend. Nice to meet you, and am sorry we had to meet un-der weird circu-mtances.”
“Its alright.” Jordan said, a small smile on his face. “And its nice to meet you too Ava.”
“Can we plea-se skip the introduction?” Xavier gr-unted. “Cause if i stand here any much longer with someone who weighs more than hundred pounds over my shoulder, its going to snap.”
“I’m sure he doesn’t weigh that much.” Jordan said, staring at a slee-ping Damon.
“You wanna carry him yourself?”
Jordan laughed. “No thanks, am good.”
Tbc