If someone had ever told her that winter could be in frenzy, Allie would've laughed at it. Winter was a time of peace and recuperation. But now, staring face to face with the biggest mistake of her life she could only imagine how right the people who hated winter are. It was the second time time in twelve years were her 4-inch stiletto heels slipped - the first time when she heard he was married and now standing face-to-face against him and a sappy looking Mr. Endo.
"Ooo...Allison" Like a five year old in front of a fake Santa Clause, Mr. Endo flashed his 1000 watt smile, dragging him behind. Any shades of green on his face disappeared after seeing the red on hers. "This young prodigy here is Mr. Jason Rivers winner of the Best Journalist Asia and Choice Correspondents. The best part...he has agreed to teach here, four lectures and two regulars a week."
Allie simply nodded with her perfect fake smile. An innocent man like Dean Endo wouldn't notice it, but Jason did. There used to be a smile on that full ruby red lips that he knew too well, loved too much, a smile that haunted him when he left, when he slept and ate.
"Professor Rivers, I've heard a lot about you." She said in greeting and was surprised by how neutral it sounded, devoid of any emotions. Maybe she was finally over with everything.
"Professor Heights." Huh...Professor Heights? He is over it too then. She thought. But the next thing out of his mouth shocked the living hell out of her.
"Thank you for letting me stay at your place. Mr. Endo said you've offered to let us use your home for the time being."
WHAT!!! MY HOUSE? SHARE WITH HIM??? Endo-san!!!!! She didn't scream though. With the best of her prideful and crafted face she said: "Father said he owed our Dean, besides its a home to the homeless." (Reader: That's right take it you cheat. You are just a charity.)
"Its not everyday that someone lets strangers in. Don't be so humble, our Allie - " Dean Endo's words where cut by her glare that said 'shut up or bare the consequence'
"-our Professor Heights has allowed us to accommodate you and your partner until the dorms are arranged. I 'll ask my assistant to send you there this after noon and you can use the centre's vehicle for transport."
Professor Rivers expressed "Thank you Dean, I hope it wasn't exhausting-"
"Nonsense. We invited you here, this is the least we could do. And Heights house is big, even for 10." Dean said cutting him off mid sentence.
"Dean" Allie wasn't ready to let others explain or judge her private life here.
Their conversation was soon halted when Allie's phone rang (ringtone- Symphony No.6 'Pastoral' Beethoven)
She excused herself and answered "Father"
His stern but caring voice form the other side of the phone said "It's him."
Allie: We just met.
Father: I couldn't refuse Endo. I'm sorry.
Allie: Its the least I could do for you, Father.
Father: Your mom is worried and wants to see for herself that you're fine. Willow is trying to calm her but you know her.
Allie: You can tell her that I'm fine. I don't intent on playing house with him, its just a temporary situation. You could get the dorm ready by then.
Father: I'll get it done by next moth. I am sorry.
Allie: Send my regards to Willow and tell her I'll see her this weekend.
Father: Have a nice day and be careful. You can't ever get hurt, okay.
Allie: Yes father. Take care, mother too.
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Willow was sitting next to her mother, staring off toward the vast expanse of city and forest. She was at home, on top of a beautiful mountain where she used to trek often with her father. She knew she was loved beyond measures by her parents, which prompted to lack of attention to Allie. Even now her motorized-all terrain wheel chair must have costed more than twice an average man's annual salary. She once heard that it was almost equal to the rent Allie's pent house apartment in Vegas. But sitting here, pampered by her parents, knowing that she is the reason for her sister's sad family relations... now the quadriplegia. That night ruined her life and career but it ruined even what was little felt inside Allie who was a witness to it.
Taking a deep sigh she patted her mother's hand, who was hyper ventilating over 'his' return. Allie could take care of it by herself. She silently prayed to all the gods she knew, even when she never did during the accident or afterwards.
(Please leave you comment below, so that I know you enjoy it. The ending will absolutely be based on your suggestions)