[Amy's POV]
Wet.
Cold.
I'm wet and cold.
My teeth chattered, and my body shook from the freezing temperatures that seemed to only surround me. Despite my body's protests, I quickened my pace. The ominous sound of heel meeting tile echoed behind me, but I shook the fear away and kept moving.
I can't look back. I can't face it now. My only mission was to get to warmth...
And far. Away. From her.
I slammed the door unintentionally, but I didn't care much. Leaning my back against the door, I sighed a breath of relief.
"What a day." I moaned.
I dully looked about my apartment, then eyed my reflection being displayed from the mirror at the end of the hall. My hair, clothes, face, and body were drenched. My schoolbag, which I just registered was being smothered under my grip, was just as wet. I relaxed my hand and took a peek inside it. Thankfully, its contents were dry.
I sighed, with another moan.
"I am never going to listen to the morning forecast, again!"
I slouched to the floor as the events leading up to my unfortunate state kept playing over and over in my mind.
~ FLASHBACK ~
After chatting it up with Shadow, I had decided to take the bus home. A light rain had begun to fall when I had entered the bus. I didn't think much of it though. I just took a seat next to a window and watched the rain descend.
As I sat further into my seat, a foul smell reached my nose. My face turned up, and I quickly covered it, not at all being discreet. I tried to search for the source of the stench and soon realized it was coming from the purple fabric that covered my chair!
I turned in my seat to study the fabric closer and saw a large outline of an old stain. I cringed. I had a good sniffer and accidentally got a whiff of it too.
It smelled like a mixture of rotten tuna fish and BO. EW!! I was horrified. More trauma occurred when I realized the ends of my hair had just rested on that spot.
Quickly, I collected my belongings and went to take a seat on the other side of the bus. I wrapped my hair up into a tight bun and gazed at my old seat. I shuddered in disgust.
I can't wait to get my own vehicle!
The rain turned into a heavy downpour, as I settled into my new quarters. My stop was three blocks away from my apartment. I had no umbrella or jacket, and I knew if I didn't hustle, I would be soaked to the bone. Once the bus came to my stop, I moved as fast as my legs would allow, but it wasn't enough to prevent my current state.
Since our elevator stopped working, I had to use the stairwell and walk up the many flights to my apartment floor. I shivered and grumbled all the way there, only stopping to give a gloomy "Hey" or an occasional "Hi" to passersbys.
My attitude quickly changed when I felt her presence. I kept myself at a steady pace, not daring to look down at the person a few flights behind me.
I could feel her eyes piercing into me and sending all kinds of negative emotions. I was relieved when I reached my floor and my apartment, which laid at the end of the hall. When I was just entering my home, I could hear the stairwell door opening.
~ END OF FLASHBACK ~
"Well, at least she can't hurt me in here." I resolved.
Wow. That was pathetic, but I didn't care. It was the only thing that was keeping me happy.
I clenched my teeth, trying to control my chattering. I still hadn't gotten warm yet. I wondered what would be the fastest way for me to get warm. I hugged myself and looked about my home as if the answer was hidden amongst my belongings.
Maybe I should make some tea and stand by the fireplace? On second thought, a mocha sounds better! But hot chocolate is faster... Or perhaps I should take a shower?
A faint sound of a door slamming a few apartments down came to my ears. From where I crouched, I could hear yelling. It was hard to make out, but I could just interpret some of their conversation.
"That's it! I want that woman out of this apartment!"
"Martha, what's wrong!?"
"I've had it with her, John! I'm calling Jasmine. She needs to go!"
I leaned the back of my head against my door and groaned, gazing up at the ceiling.
Seriously! Now, she's trying to get her cousin to throw me out!? How could she do this to me! Wasn't her tongue lashing enough!?
I closed my eyes, as the balls of my fists tightened. I wanted a memory wipe; to forget everything that had happened, but I couldn't stop thinking about that horrible woman!
I sighed. How could a day so good, turn so wrong!?
An unpleasant smell reached my nose, and I realized that it was coming from me.
Yeah, I'll go for the shower.
With a huff, I slipped off my boots and socks, leaving them at the entrance with my schoolbag, and headed towards my bedroom.
Water dripped off my face and clothes, as I stumbled through my bedroom door. My once tight bun was now lop-sided and unraveling, and a mixture of rain, sweat, and stinky feet fumed from my body. I was a complete mess! I moaned again.
My conscious noted that I was doing a lot of that lately, to which I replied with an eye roll and another moan.
Do you really think that doing that will help you? My conscious questioned. If anything, you should go talk to her and get some closure instead of moaning and -
"Fine! Alright, already!" I conceded, silencing my little voice, and walked away into my bathroom. "I'll talk with her. But later."
I turned on the shower, and heated vapors soon filled the room. Steam engulfed me, as warm droplets washed away my pain. I closed my eyes and inhaled the warm steam, as my mind slowly brought me back.
I could see myself standing on the stage greeted by a roaring applause. My friends' whoops and cheers above them all! The initial shock I had, when my friends told me of the live-stream video they did, and the crazy comments towards Sonic. There was also my chance encounter with Shadow and the lovely chat we had! He actually gave me a lot to think about...
I even had a peaceful moment on the bus listening to the rain, before I discovered the stench. A chuckle escaped my lips. That was kind of funny now that I think about it.
I opened my eyes, still daydreaming. The shower water reminded me of the raindrops that trailed down my passenger window. I could just hear them, beating against the roof of the bus.
I didn't mind the rain. Some people thought of it as a bad thing or a nuisance, but I liked it... if I didn't get caught in it.
These were good memories. The right ones to think about. Everything was perfect! Then the heavy downpour came and her along with it.
I thought of how she approached me. Her face showed nothing but self-righteousness and reproach, and her eyes were full of hatred towards me. But for what! I never did anything to her, except exist! She thinks I'm the villain in this story, but I'm not!
Our conversation was short, but her words pierced like a knife!
To think my husband and I thought you were a decent young lady! We trusted you, brought you into our home, fed you! Thinking that we were being hospitable to a sweet young lady. All the while, we were being tricked by your pretty little face!.. and sadly, your little plan worked. But we see you for who you are now... a cunning, deceitful, little temptress!
Hot shower water and warm tears slowly began to mix and become one.
No, Amy! No! Don't let her get to you! You know the truth. You know those words are not true.
"Then why does it hurt so bad!?" I let out a sob, before taking a big breath.
"It's okay... You're okay."
I turned off the water and got ready for tonight. My day wasn't over, and I won't let myself be consumed by her gloom. I had glanced over my phone's notifications and saw that I had two messages. The first one was from Cream.
Cream's Message:
~ Hey! Are you still coming for the meet-up? ~
I made an amused, but curious face.
Why would she ask that!? Of course, I'm coming! We have a "No Exceptions" rule. I better text her back.
My Message:
~ Of course I'm coming, Cream! We do have a "No Exceptions" rule after all... Why do you ask? ~
I checked my second message, and it was from the last person I wanted to hear from. My eyes narrowed.
???'s Message:
~ I heard what happened. I'm coming to see you. ~
I let out a laugh. "Yeah, right! I'd like to see you try!"
I couldn't believe this guy! Him? Coming here!? That's a definite no! There was no way I was having that moron or anyone else for that matter come over today. For one, my mind still needed to recover from the bus incident. Two, my house was a mess. Three, the fridge was bare, and four, I didn't want to see the guy who was the reason behind all my current troubles.
But I wasn't about to explain all that to him!
My Message:
~ Don't bother! ~
After I had moved into my apartment, Mr. and Mrs. John and Martha Miller were the first people to make me feel welcome... Kind of stings just thinking about it.
Mrs. Miller was like a mother and aunt to me all wrapped in one. She often came to check up on me, offer me company, and gave good womanly advice. Mr. John Miller behaved more like the caring, goofy uncle. I could always come to him for comfort and a laugh. Their children, Sarah (age 15) and Huru (age 12) were just as kind.
Back then, I had yet to meet their eldest, Jason. The day we met was when all my troubles started.
~ FLASHBACK ~
I was invited by the Millers to join their annual family reunion, which I was genuinely surprised... since I'm not a relation, but Mr. and Mrs. Miller insisted. I had an uneasy feeling about the whole thing, but I agreed anyway. When the day of the event arrived, Mrs. Miller escorted me around and introduced me to everyone. It was then that I realized that she had set me up on a blind date with one of her nephews.
I mentally facepalmed myself for not listening to the small voice inside me telling me not to come here. For two hours straight I was trapped with my blind date until he came...
A bright orange hedgehog with the same colored irises and jagged hair approached us and interrupted our one-sided conversation. His face showed confidence and ease as he walked over to my "date" with a smile.
"Hey, Chris! I haven't seen you in a while! How's college?"
"Hey, Jason! Nice to see you too! College is peaceful now that my roommate's dropped out."
"Pfft! That bad, huh?"
"You don't even know the half of it. How's the internship coming along?"
"Not bad. My instructor isn't a power-hungry weirdo, so it's cool!" Jason paused to glance my way before continuing, "But you know, the real question is: why are you hanging out with my date, Chris?"
"Wh-What? Your date? What are you talking about Jason? Amy's my date."
I was also confused. What was this Jason guy talking about!? Though I didn't want to be on this "date", I couldn't say Chris wasn't my date. Mrs. Miller did introduce us after all.
Before I could voice my opinion, however, Jason spoke again.
"Chris, my dear cousin," Jason began, which was a bit dramatic in my opinion. "Though you do not realize it, you are indeed hanging out with MY date.
There was a pause as Jason allowed Chris to process the information. Chris still looked terribly confused. Jason continued.
"You do realize that you're not the only one my mom's set up a date for today, right? Unfortunately, Mom put way too much on her plate! With her handling the menu, decorations, itinerary, and all that, she got overworked. And as a result, confused our dates."
I found this kind of hard to believe. Knowing what I know about Mrs. Miller, she wasn't the one to get "overworked". Not to mention, she used to be a professional party planner, but it looked like Chris believed every word.
"Oh! Really!?" Chris asked, a little embarrassed.
Jason placed his hand on his cousin's shoulder. "Yep! I'm afraid so!"
"Wait a minute!" I interjected, finally finding my voice. "If it's true that you're my date, then why didn't you come earlier? The reunion has been going for two hours now!"
It was silent as my words lingered in the air. Jason turned to look at me with an amused smile. This was the first time that Jason had looked me square in the face, and I gotta admit, I was slightly taken aback. He was handsome and despite his cocky attitude, was well put together. His side profile didn't do him justice at all!
I might have swooned if I hadn't noticed the annoying smile he gave me.
"Good question." Jason grinned. His smile kind of reminded me of Sonic's.
"I actually just arrived. I had some matters to take care of which delayed my arrival. So.."
"And who told you that our dates were switched?" I interrupted, still not believing the guy.
"My sister."
This caught me by surprise. I didn't think Sarah would intervene in her mother's matchmaking schemes... I wanted to ask more, but I didn't want to be stuck with Chris either, though he was a nice guy. So, I kept quiet.
Jason smiled again, sensing that my interrogation was over, and returned his attention back to Chris.
"Now Chris," he began, bending down to place his arm over his cousin's shoulder. "The beautiful girl, who has been patiently waiting for you all this time, to enter into her life, is over there."
Jason directed his cousin's attention to a young, beautiful white hedgehog with purple-tipped quills who was seated alone at a table just ten feet away from us. I watched Chris's facial expressions change, and it was obvious that he was smitten.
Inwardly I eye-rolled.
"Don't just sit there staring at her like some weird stalker!" Jason joked. "Go talk to her!"
Chris looked between me and Jason, then awkwardly rose to his feet, excused himself, and quickly walked over to the beautiful hedgehog.
I watched Jason as he smiled from ear to ear. "What a champ!"
Jason could sense my stare and slowly turned his gaze to me.
"Hi, I'm Jason! But you probably already know that."
"Yeah. So, you're my date?" I asked, ignoring his charm. I didn't hide my suspicion.
"Weeell, not exactly."
"I knew it! How much of that did you make up?" I asked.
"Hmm... all of it." he grinned.
I shook my head. "Unbelievable."
"Except for the part with me being late and Sarah telling me about you. That is accurate!"
"And you lied because..."
"Sarah told me how Mom set you up for a blind date. My mom does this kind of thing all time, which is one reason why I was late. I knew she'd have something like this set up for me, but when Sarah told me about you, she insisted that I save you."
I smiled to myself, silently thanking Sarah for her help. I met Jason's eyes and gave a small sincere smile.
"Thank you."
"Don't sweat it. Besides," Jason smirked looking back at his love-struck cousin, "I think Chris is happy with the trade-off."
I laughed as I watched the eager faces of the couple.
"I agree!"
Jason leaned back in his chair and smiled at me.
"So... you're Amy."
~ END OF FLASHBACK ~
Jason and I talked for the rest of that day and days after. I learned a lot about him and could tell that he was a really cool guy. Sarah had later told me how Jason rarely came home to visit. It was only after he met me that he started coming around more.
From what I had gathered, Jason had been at odds with his parents, especially Mrs. Miller, due to proclaiming herself as her son's matchmaker. Jason was a great person and a blast to be around, but he wasn't my type. I was unaware however that I was Jason's type, and his love for me infuriated his mother.
I sighed. Why did Jason have to like me!?
The Millers were nice people, and we had shared many good times. If Mrs. Miller was only willing to see that I didn't seduce her son... but he chose to love me... then perhaps, things would still be the same...
I clenched my phone with both hands, sensing my tears threatening to fall.
"Breath Amy. Breath."
My phone vibrated, pulling me back to the present. I blinked several times before loosening my grip to check my notification. Cream had messaged me back.
Cream's Message:
~ Rouge messaged me about 15 mins ago saying she won't be able to make it. She's being held up at work. Glad to hear you'll be coming though!~
"WHAT!" I screamed, forgetting that my nosey neighbors could hear me. "That's a bunch of baloney!"
Not bothering to text Cream back, I dialed Rouge's number. This bat is going to get a piece of my mind, today! There was no way she could ditch us like that!
The dial tone was ringing in my ears until a smooth feminine voice answered.
"Hey, Amy! Haven't heard from you in a while! What's up, sweetie!?"
"Cream told me you won't be coming to the meet-up today. What's going on?"
I heard Rouge sigh over the phone.
"Look Amy, I know this is sudden, and I'm sorry. But I'm tied up at work and there's no way I can get out of it! Trust me, I tried."
"You're the CEO of your own company, and you're telling me that you can't take a day off."
"It's not that easy, hon. Even though I'm the CEO, I still have to answer to my partners."
"I'm sure Knuckles will understand!"
"It's not Knuckles." Rouge chuckled.
"Then who is it?!"
"No one that you need to know. Now, stop worrying about me and start thinking how you're going to survive without me!"
"Seriously, Rouge?! Ugh, fine! I'll think about how I can survive without you, while you start thinking about how you're going to repay us all back!"
"Oh, I already know."
"Oh really? How?!"
"We'll have the next meet-up at my place."
I thought about this. Rouge's offer did sound tempting. She does have a nice place, and I mean a really nice place! If I wasn't so stubborn about buying things myself, I would be living it up in my dream condo that Rouge would have bought for me. Oh well.
"Is food and beverages included?" I challenged.
"But of course!"
"Then it's a deal!" I squealed, doing my little happy dance.
Thoughts of my sad day were completely abandoned as I continued chatting with Rouge. We eagerly began discussing decorations, menu ideas, and party games, until a loud gruff voice interrupted our conversation.
"Rouge, are you in here!?"
"Oh, duty calls sweetie! Let everyone know about next month's meet-up. I'll chat with you again on my day off! Bye!"
"Oh, bye!"
Wow, Rouge is tied up at work! Poor girl. Though I wonder, who has enough power to boss Rouge around? Hmm...
I placed the thought aside when a knock came from my door. I walked toward the entrance, without a care in the world, except for wondering who was at my door. I wasn't expecting anyone or a package.
I went on my tiptoes and looked through the peaky hole. I immediately groaned and could feel my gloomy day return, when I saw none other than Jason Miller the Hedgehog on the other side.
What is he doing here!? I told him not to come!... Well, I won't let him step foot in here! Maybe if I stay quiet and act like I'm not here, he'll just go away.
"I know you're there Amy."
Gasp! He can't possibly know I'm here!
"Seriously!? You're doubting whether I know you're here or not?"
What!? How did he!?.. Oh, wait. Telepathy.
"Yep! So, there's no use in trying to stay quiet to act like you're not here, cuz I'm not leaving."
I groaned and looked through the peaky hole, again. I could see Jason staring right back.
"Now, open the door." he ordered.
What was I to do!? After what happened earlier there was no way I was going to let him in! I'll just try to let him down easy.
"Jason," I sighed softly, "...you shouldn't be here."
Ignoring my comment, Jason continued persisting.
"I heard that my mom met you on the bus and that the two of you had exchanged some words. Care to share?"
No. "Did you see my message?" I asked, folding my arms.
"Yeah."
"Then, don't bother!"
"So, you're not going to tell me what happened?"
"..." I'm pretty sure you heard me say no, Jason.
"Are you at least going to let me in!?"
"..." Nope, don't plan to.
"Amy, stop talking to me in your head and say something!"
"You should leave." I said dryly to the door.
"Wow! Seriously!? I'm practically being your knight in shining armor and you're slamming the door in my face!"
"Knight in shining armor!? Boy, please! I haven't even opened the door!"
"EVEN WORSE!"
"You, idiot, go away!"
I could hear Jason gasp.
"W-words can hurt you know!?"
"Yes, I do know, but I don't have time to console you. Now, shoo!"
"But Amy!" He whined.
"Shoo Jason!"
"Why can't you just let me in!?"
"Jason, the whole floor probably knows that you want to enter my apartment!"
"And who's fault is that!?"
"Yours!" I spat.
"No, yours!" Jason countered. "Cuz you're too stubborn to let me help you! Now, open the damn door!"
My front door began to shake violently, as Jason tried to force the door open.
"No!"
"..." Amy. Open. This. Door.
"..." No, and you can't make me!
There was a long silence between us.
I went on tiptoes to see Jason still staring at the peaky hole. His face was now sad and his eyes were pleading. I wasn't going to let him in, though. He drew his face closer to the peak hole, displaying pouty lips and his puppy dog eyes.
"Pleeeease!"
"Stop making that face through the peaky hole!"
"It's not called a peaky hole! It's a peephole! Who says peaky hole!?"
"Go AWAY!"
"Amy, I'm not leaving until you open the door. So, open the door!"
[Jason's POV]
I had been arguing with Amy for a good five minutes, now. I hate it when we bicker back and forth. She can be so stubborn sometimes!
I ruffled my quills in frustration.
How am I going to convince her to let me in?
To my relief, though, Amy does finally open the door, but just enough for her angry eyes to appear.
"Wow." I said sarcastically, stuffing my hands in my pockets. "Could you open the door any smaller?"
I grinned at my own mockery. Amy didn't even blink.
She opens the door wider and pokes her face out. She wore a mad pouty face that just made me want to hug her and give her a nose kiss.
"Good evening, ma'am." I said with grace and a bow, "Sorry, for disturbing you, but I heard that you have a terrible grievance. And I believe I have just the thing to solve your troubles. May I come in?"
"No soliciting."
My mouth dropped along with my act, but I shook it off. When Amy got like this, the only thing to do was keep prying until she opens up. Besides, her face was too cute to get angry at!
I bent down so that our eyes and nose were level, and admired her as if she was a little baby.
"Aww! Well, isn't that the cutest little face you have ever seen!?"
I leaned closer to attempt a nose kiss, but she yells and swats at me.
"Eww! Stop it, you, weirdo!"
I stood up and took a stern stance.
"Amy, you don't need to tell me this. I already know I'm wonderful! But if it makes you feel better, I'll allow it."
Now her mouth dropped. I held a laugh. I love it when I get her to do that! She's just too cute!
"If you keep making those cute faces, I'll HAVE to give you a nose kiss!"
I gave a goofy grin and wiggled my eyebrows.
"Jason, stop it!" She pleads, "Someone could be watching!"
My eyes lit up.
"So you're saying you'd let me give you a nose kiss if we were alone? Well, that can be arranged." I eyed her living room and gave her a smirk.
She caught the message, and she did not look happy.
"Over my dead body!"
"Well, we certainly don't want that!"
Amy's face goes from annoyed to angry. She apparently wasn't in the mood for jokes today. Without warning, she slams the door. Only... the door didn't slam. Amy looks at the door then at me, bewildered at what she saw.
Her front door was surrounded by a bright fiery glow that held it in place.
I replaced my hands back in my pockets, as I watched Amy struggle against my Psychokinesis. I rolled my eyes with a sigh and let go of the door. The door instantly slammed shut, followed by a thud. I opened the door to see Amy on the floor rubbing her rump. I guess she fell.
Amy glared at me as she still tried to soothe her damage behind.
"The door's open! Happy now!?"
Actually, I wasn't. I hate to see Amy like this, especially when I cause it. But I need to keep going, else she might never tell me.
"Amy, I'm sorry." I pleaded as I took a step inside.
But this only made matters worse. Amy jumps to her feet, summoning her hammer. I instantly raised my hands and remained perfectly still.
"Take one more step in my house and you'll be flying to the end of the hall!"
Why is she acting like she hates me!?
I looked into her eyes, and saw the pain running through them.
"I won't." I reassured her, as I slowly lowered myself to the floor.
My eyes never left hers, as I sat crisscross applesauce.
"I'll just sit here.. at the entrance.. and listen. That's all I want Amy."
Amy slowly lowers her hammer. I could see her eyes begin to pool. She closed them and sighed.
"You promise?" she choked.
I nodded.
"Mhm. But the door must stay open!" I insisted, which she accepted with a nod.
I released a sigh of relief.
"So.." I started, "What happened?"
[Amy's POV]
~FLASHBACK~
The rain turned into a heavy downpour, as I settled into my new seat. My stop was three blocks away from my apartment. I had no umbrella or jacket, and I knew if I didn't hustle, I would be soaked to the bone. I silently prayed that the rain would stop before it was time for me to get off.
I grabbed my phone and checked the time. I decided it would be best to stay preoccupied. So, I grabbed my laptop out of my bookbag and got to work. It wasn't long before the bus approached another stopping point. The sound of brakes entered the air as the bus came to a halt.
I glanced out the window. This wasn't my stop. The bus had three more stops in its route before coming to mine. The automatic doors flew open, and passengers entered and exited. I heard the clattering of heels hitting the bus floor until they stopped in front of me.
There was a tap on my laptop accompanied by an older female voice.
"Well! Fancy seeing you here, Amy!?"
My eyes widened. I ceased typing, fear striking my heart. I tried to control my breathing, and prepare myself for the worst.
I look up from my computer to see a velvet red hedgehog.
"Hello, Mrs. Miller. It's been a while! It's good to see you!"
That was partly true. I do miss her company, but that was the past and this was the present. We hadn't seen or spoken to one another for some months. Perhaps if I act kind, things will smooth over, but boy was I wrong!
"Really!? You're happy to see me? And why is that?"
I wanted to open my mouth, but I didn't know what to say!? Yet I opened my mouth anyway.
"Yes. It is good to see you. We have had some good times after all."
"And what? You expect us now to have good times again!?"
I lowered my head. I couldn't answer that. Of course, we couldn't have what we had in the past! I felt so dumb! I should have just said hello and kept it at that!
Mrs. Miller sighed.
"Yes, Amy, we have had good times in the past, but unfortunately, because of your lustful behavior, we don't anymore.
"Don't act all innocent and pretend you don't know what I'm talking about. I see you for who you are Amy Rose. Yes, you were a freedom fighter and did good things, but that doesn't negate your behavior in trying to separate my family."
"Mrs. Miller, I have done nothing of the sort.."
"Oh really? Then why are you trying to act like nothing is wrong with our relationship? Hmm? Why have you been allowing my son to come over to your house at any and all hours of the day, if you weren't trying to put a stumbling block between me and my son's relationship!?"
"Mrs. Miller, Jason and I are just friends! He's not even my type!"
"Then why encourage him!? I can see, and I know that you can tell as well, that you and Jason are not compatible. Yet, you hang out together and visit each other's homes more frequently than a friend would."
I tried to speak but was cut off.
"Tell me this, Amy Rose. What is the purpose behind you being friends with my son, because I can only think of one."
"Stop it! Pleease!"
A knife entered my heart when I saw Mrs. Miller trying to hold back tears.
"Just stop with the lies." she continued, "Amy I want to believe you, but I can't deny what my eyes are seeing... To think my husband and I thought you were a decent young lady! We trusted you, brought you into our home, fed you! Thinking that we were being hospitable to a sweet, young, intelligent lady."
My eyes began to well up with tears as I heard her words. Nothing, nothing could be more painful than this!
"All the while," she whispered, shaking her head, "we were being tricked by your pretty little face!.. and sadly, your little plan worked. But we see you for who you are now... a cunning, deceitful, little temptress!"
~END OF FLASHBACK~
[Jason's POV]
"My mom said all that?" I whispered.
Amy nodded.
"I was so embarrassed," she admitted. Her voice was just above a whisper.
My eyes softened as I gazed at Amy cradling herself in her arms, rocking back and forth.
"I was ashamed for the rest of the ride home. I even spotted other passengers eyeing me judgingly," she sighed, rocking harder. "Why does this have to happen to me?"
As Amy finished her story, I watched in agony as she formed into a ball, appearing to shrink in size.
"Amy, I..."
But I couldn't finish. What was I to say!?
I was still in shock and at the same time, angry with myself for letting this happen. I knew my mom disliked our relationship, which was in no way, shape, or form a "relationship".
From the beginning, Amy has kept me mercilessly captive in the friend zone! But on the other hand, that does make sense, if you're the type of person who likes to take it slow... And I have been making headway, so...
Not trying to get off-topic or anything! I'm just stating the facts. You know, trying to process everything!
But still, even with these facts, there's no reason why my mom would blame this on Amy. Why does my mom blame Amy!? Amy did nothing wrong!
True, she let me hang around her a little too often, but that was because I'm irresistible! I caused this! It should be me who my mother hates, not Amy!
There was a faint sniffle, and I knew it was the sound of Amy crying. I growled in frustration, and my fists tightened.
This wasn't supposed to happen! Amy was supposed to fall in love with me. Then after I had proven what a great couple we make, the beef between my parents would stop! But now...
Now it seems like I've done more harm... than good. I feel so helpless! I'm the reason this happened; yet I can't find a solution!
A sigh escapes my lips, as visions of my past appear in my mind. Many, painful scenes... Scenes that I wanted to forget, that I was now reliving again.
Why do I end up hurting those that I love?
Faint sobs brought my attention back to the pink hedgehog. The scene was all too familiar. The crying, the pain, the regret, the anger, the hatred, the division... It was like déjá vú. And it was again all my fault!
No. I can't let this happen again! I can't, not to Amy!
I quickly, but cautiously moved toward Amy. I knelt beside her, but hesitated.
Amy, I "spoke" to her, I know you probably don't want this from me, but I'm going to give you a hug.
I reached out my hands and slowly embraced her. She didn't even flinch but stayed curled up in a ball. Amy had stopped sobbing, but I could still feel her pain. I held her tighter and said the only thing that could come to mind.
"Amy, this is not your fault. You've done nothing wrong. I...I did this. I'm the reason you're in this mess. I shouldn't have pursue... persisted so much. And I'm sorry. What I did to you was wrong! I thought of no one, but myself, and it caused hell for everyone.
I'm sorry I didn't respect your wishes and stay away, Amy. And I'm sorry for causing you pain. I didn't mean for this to happen. But I want you to know that I'm going to find a way to make this right! Because you are not to blame!"
Silence fell between us, and it remained like this for some time, as the guilt of my past and present slowly overtook me.
It wasn't my plan to cry, but those memories... those horrible memories.
The sudden sound of my crying must have been awkward for Amy, because I felt her begin to uncoil herself. I quickly held back my tears and the dull pain that was buried long ago.
I won't let my mind go back to her. To remember her face, her smile, or the faith she had in me that I took for granted...
I must focus on Amy. She's my mission now.
I brought Amy into a tighter hug, pulling myself back to the present.
You're my mission now.
I had expected to feel Amy's small arms embrace me back but that didn't happen. Instead, she pushed me away, avoiding my eyes and rose to her feet. She looked down at me and I up at her. She wore a faint smile and I couldn't help but marvel at it.
Even with everything that I've put her through, she still smiles at me?
"This isn't your fault." she says softly, "At least, not entirely. You have no control over what I or your mother do. Your mom wasn't wrong, Jason. I shouldn't have allowed you to get so close to me. I should have set healthy boundaries between us. I only see you as a friend, and what's happening between us isn't right!"
I lowered my head. I knew she was right, but I still felt mostly responsible. Mom was right too, but I wasn't ready to admit that yet. Nor was I ready to give up on us being together.
"I could tell that you liked me," she continued, "And I know I should have kept you at bay, but... I liked the attention."
I stayed silent while the memories of all our time together played in my mind. I knew Amy didn't like me, but I thought I could get her to fall for me, at least, if I tried hard enough. I didn't realize I was so transparent.
Amy's head lowers, "I used you, Jason. I used you to get the attention that I've always wanted, but that was wrong of me. I don't love you and I probably never will. I should have told you this a long time ago, and I'm-I'm sorry."
I didn't show it, but her words stung more than anything.
~ I don't love you and I probably never will ~
I swallowed my anger and the bitter taste of her rejection.
She did say "probably", so I still have a chance. But I can't think about that now, I need to focus on fixing my relationship with Amy.
I got up from the floor and placed my hands on her shoulders.
"Amy, you're not to blame. The reason why I said 'it's not your fault' is because I was the one who initiated this, and in the process, I've hurt you and my mother, and my family. True, I can't control what other people do, but I knew from the beginning that you didn't like me!"
"Jason, I also am to blame! Stop making yourself the bad guy!"
"But I am the bad guy, Amy! I knew my mom would disapprove of us being together! And I knew you didn't want me to chase you! But I didn't care!
I didn't care enough about you or her to stop myself! I only thought of myself and what I wanted! Just like what I did in the past! Just like what I did to Tiger!"
Amy gave me an inquisitive look.
"Who's Tiger?"
My eyes widened. I didn't mean to say that. I had never wanted to tell this to Amy. Ever! Call me untrustworthy, but I don't want her to know about my past. It's too... evil. I'm evil.
[Amy POV]
I waited for Jason to answer my question, but he didn't say a word. He just kept looking down at his foot that was making circles on the floor. I sighed.
I had guessed that whoever Tiger was, was someone from his past. Something he never talks about. Perhaps it was about time, and based on his behavior, I believe I'm right.
"Look, Jason. You don't have to tell me about your troubled relationship or past if you don't want to."
I watched him let out a sigh of relief.
"But" I continued, "If you want our friendship to continue, you need to, eventually, open up about this."
Jason's head shot up. He looked shocked, and his eyes read hurt and betrayal. Normally, I would have comforted him, but I had to stand my ground. I had allowed Jason to get too close to me, and I didn't want the same thing to happen twice.
Jason's eyes then narrowed and his face became serious.
"My past is none of your business."
I was taken aback by his slightly harsh tone, but I held my ground.
"You're right. It's not. But I don't plan to be friends with people who have issues that aren't willing to fix them or talk about them."
"My past issues are the past, Amy! And they won't effect our friendship!"
"Oh really!? Then why do you say that what you did to me was what you did in the past? What you did to Tiger!"
Jason's face softened and guilt riddled his face. He avoided my gaze and turned his attentions to the door, but I wasn't finished.
"You say you trust me. You say you care about me. Yet you won't open up about anything regarding your past! You really think I didn't notice!? What happens in your past does effect how you will treat others in the future, unless if you address it! And Jason, I don't you addressed it!"
Jason's hand silenced me. His gaze was still toward the door, and his breathing was slow and heavy.
"You've said enough."
A small pain entered my heart when I heard those words. It was clear that Jason did not want to continue, but if we didn't break down this wall, it would only continue or cause something worse to happen. I was treading into dangerous waters, and I knew that I couldn't break down his wall for him. He'd have to do it himself.
I sighed.
I won't push him, and I won't end our friendship over this, either. I'll be patient and help him as best I can, but he needs to fix whatever this is.
"Alright." I conceded, "I won't push you. I can see that this is a touchy subject for you. And I accept your apology, and I hope that you can accept mine."
Jason's hand lowered, his gaze remained at the door.
"Of course." he said, "And thank you. Can we... still be friends?"
"Yes." I nodded. "We can still be friends."
Jason breathed a sigh of relief and his whole body relaxed. He turned his head to face and looked into my eyes. He held a small grateful smile, and I could have sworn that there was water in his eyes. But then he blinked, and they were gone.
"Thanks Amy." he smiled, "You're a true friend."
"I know!" I smiled proudly and posed as a hero.
Jason moaned dramatically, and we both shared a laugh as he plopped onto my sofa.
"So, now that we got the tear jerkers out of the way," Jason began, placing his hands behind his head "what are your plans for today?"
"Actually... I have an occasion to get ready for." I answered, eye the clock on the wall.
"Really?"
"Yeah. So, you need to leave."
"What!? But I was just getting comfortable!"
"Well too bad, so sad, for you."
A big pouty face was his reply, but I ignored him and began collecting my stuff.
"Besides," I went on, "I don't have time to entertain or feed a guest."
"I don't eat a lot."
My back was turned to him and I didn't want to waste my breath, so I showed him my hammer.
"Kidding! I was only kidding!"
My hammer disappeared and I turned around to see Jason already at the door, hand in his pockets. He smiled at me.
"Go on. Don't let me stop you from getting ready. I'll wait here for you and be your chauffeur."
"No thanks Jason. I'll be fine."
"Why not?"
I looked at him as if he was an idiot. "You're seriously asking me that."
"Oh yeah,... Nevermind then. Have fun walking!"
I looked at him with shock then a glare.
"And have fun driving alone in your busted car."
"Okay, okay. I deserved that."
"Yes, you did. Now please close the door on your way out. I don't have a lot of time to get ready and I'd like to clear things up with your mother first before I go."
"Wait! You're going to see her!?"
"Yes, Jason. I've had enough of this back and forth stuff. I'm going to make it right with her."
I turned and walked away to my room, leaving Jason at the door not letting him say another word. When I was already to go, I was surprised to see Jason still at the door waiting for me to return.
"I thought you left." I stated, sounding a bit displeased to see him.
"What made you think that?"
"I heard the door close."
"Oh, I just closed the door. I decided that I'll be coming with you to speak with my mother."
My mouth almost dropped.
"Really?"
"Yes. I promised you that I'd fix this, didn't I? Now, I think it will be best if I go over to my parents' house first, and reconcile with my mom. Which might take about 15 mins or so, then after that, you can..."
Jason's words slowly faded to the background as I smiled softly at him. I took his hand, which caused him to stop talking. He looked down at me.
"Thank you Jason."
My small words of appreciation was enough to make Jason's eyes lit up. He squeezed my hand and smiled back at me.
"Anytime. That's what friends do for each other, right?"
I nodded. "And I understand that your not ready to share about your past. I'm not okay with it, but I can wait."
Jason chuckled. "Thanks Amy."
Jason continued to stare into my eyes. Suddenly, he looked away, dramatically.
"I'm sorry Amy! I can't look at you any longer, cuz," he paused glanced my way, "I think I'm falling for you."
"What!" I screamed, pulling my hand away as he jumps out of the way of my attacks, laughing.
"You did not just say that!? Get back here! You just ruined the moment!"
Jason continued to laugh and dodge and I soon gave up and walked out the door.
"Hey! Wait up!" Jason laughed, running after me. "I was just messing with you!"
I rolled my eyes and hid a smile.
"Yeah, whatever!" I mused, heading for the Millers' apartment.
My day hasn't turned out the way I had expected. I didn't plan for my presentation to be broadcasted to the world; I didn't plan to see Shadow; and I especially didn't plan on fixing my conflicting relationship with the Millers.
Yet, here I was doing those exact things. Interesting how life is, isn't it? My life may not be perfect. In fact, it's far from it, but at least, I'm heading down the right direction.
And the day is not over.
In fact, it's just beginning.