"I can't believe you like the guy I like."
"I didn't mean to."
"You like me?"
"I do, do you like me?"
"Yeah, I do. Can I?"
He came closer before hearing a strange voice in the distance. "Wait, what about me?"
"M…Matthew?"
In between two, one in the back, and one at the front. "Choose me."
"No, choose me."
"I can't decide."
"But don't you love me?"
Elijah opened his eyes, rubbing them. It's been like this for a few days now, and Elijah doesn't know what to think about it. Ugh, when will it be over, I can't keep doing this. Elijah tilted his head, thinking about his feelings for both Matthew and Tristan. Maybe I should stop this before it gets out of hand. Who knows what's going to happen if this goes on? Elijah tried to bury his feelings, only getting in the way of his everyday life. After getting ready for school, the day went on as normal. Only this time, he tried to not be awkward around his crushes and tried to act natural. "So, I was wondering if you'd like to go with me to the Bay, they're having a Sale Day," Matthew asked.
"I can't go, I have plans… with… Dustin. I've got plans with Dustin," he answered, pulling Dustin towards him.
"We have plans?"
"Yes, we have plans," he lied, smiling at Matthew.
"Oh, maybe some other time then. I'll see you later," Matthew greeted, heading to class.
"Elijah, what do you think of this picture? How do I look?" Tristan asked, showing a picture of him on the beach, shirtless as Elijah blushed. Come on, now's not the time to be a pervert.
"I think you look normal. Nothing you should worry about," Elijah answered as Tristan looked puzzled.
"Is that all?"
"Yes, is there anything else I should see?"
Keeping this up was rather exhausting, almost like it was lying, something Elijah didn't like doing. After school, Elijah joined Matthew and the rest of the drama club in shooting, with only a few scenes to shoot. While Calum and Dustin were in art class, the first week of being a couple. "I can't believe we're dating. It feels like such a fever dream," Calum said, drawing on the tab.
"You've been saying that since Friday. I still can't believe you did that," Dustin answered.
"What, I wanted to make sure everyone got the memo. You're mine and I don't want anyone to take you from me," he mentioned, kissing him on the forehead.
"So possessive."
The next day at lunch, the group sat down by their table as usual except for Ally and Tristan. "I'm guessing her confession went well," Rohan mentioned.
"Hmm, she would've told us if they were dating," Thandi replied.
"Maybe she didn't tell—"
Just as he said that they came to the table, laughing with each other. "Speak of the devil."
"Where were you two?" Thandi asked.
"We just came met in the hallway and he told me a joke that I couldn't stop laughing," Ally said, laughing.
"Oh, is there anything else we need to know?" Rohan asked.
"No, I don't think so," Tristan answered, "I'm going to head to my friends, see you later."
Ally sat down, and began to eat her food. "Hello, did you do it or not?"
"I did," she answered.
"So…" Dustin added.
"He likes someone else, and that's okay. When I think about my 'feelings' for him, it was more pressure from you guys. Anyway, I think I should retire for now when it comes to liking people. I was thinking about joining the journalist club since the Leadership club doesn't have much going on," she revealed.
"Uhh, I'm both confused and impressed."
"Why," Ally asked.
"It's nothing, maybe dating isn't for you," Thandi replied, continuing to eat her lunch.
"No, tell me. Is that supposed to be some sort of backhanded advice," she asked, tense.
"Wait, don't get me wrong. Dating isn't for everyone, and that's okay."
"I will find someone, just not now. Okay."
"Alright," they all agreed.
Elijah couldn't help but feel both relieved and guilty over what she said. Due to this, he continued to eat his food in silence, while the other questioned the two new lovebirds at the table. "Calum, what exactly do you like in Dustin, I've lived with him for my whole life and I just don't see what you see," Rohan joked, before Dustin looked at him, squinting his eyes and arching his brows.
"I like everything about him. Sound cheesy but it's true," Calum smiled, holding Dustin's hand as he blushed.
"You two are very cute. Have you told your parents?" Thandi asked.
"Calum told his parents, but I haven't told mine yet. They don't know that I have a boyfriend," Dustin answered.
"He's scared that my parents would not accept Calum. I don't know why he thinks that. They just hope that you'll leave your room more," Rohan revealed.
"Hmm, weird," Ally mumbled.
"Your parents will love me. I mean, who doesn't."
"I don't want you to feel bad if they criticize you. They tend to do that a lot, and I'd rather you not go through that," Dustin answered as Calum's face gleamed.
"You like me that much," he smiled, squeezing the life out of him.
At the shooting location, it was a short scene and one of the last. Matthew and Elijah handed out packs of lunch to the filming crew before settling down to watch the scenes as they were being filmed. "Have you told anyone else?" Matthew asked.
"Huh?"
"Sorry, if I'm being insensitive."
"Oh. No, I haven't. Only my family, Dustin and you know. I don't feel comfortable telling others. I'd rather keep it under the sheets," he explained, eating the burrito.
"But your friends are okay with Dustin, why wouldn't they be okay with you?"
"I know but there is a lingering feeling, especially after what happened on Friday," Elijah said.
"Speaking about that, how are you and your father doing?" Matthew asked.
"We're okay, he doesn't seem to mention it, and he seems okay with me. But I can't forget that night."
"So, do you have a boyfriend?" Matthew asked, surprising him.
"No, I don't. Why would you think that?"
"Nothing special. I just figured that you have your eyes on someone, do you?"
"Well… I… uhh…"
"You do, don't you?" he figured, as Elijah continued to stutter.
"I guess I do," he said, anxious.
"Hmm, do I know them?"
"Hehe, I can't tell you that," Elijah giggled.
"Why not?"
"Just because…"
"Well, if you can't tell me then I hope you succeed," Matthew smiled.
If only it were that easy.
The upcoming days were not easy as the dreams kept coming and became even more lucid, more than he could handle. To think it would be eating away from him, he needed advice, advice from someone he trusted. "What's up?" Monique asked, pack the fridge.
"I'm having boy problems, and I might sound dramatic but I really need advice."
"Ooh, tell me," she said, forgetting about packing the fridge.
"You know how I like Matthew, right?"
"Yeah, what, do you not like him anymore?" she asked.
"No, I still really like him but he's… not… the only one," Elijah revealed, hesitant.
"Really. Are you sure?"
"At first I thought it was just attraction because, in my eyes, they are both really attractive, but, it's more than that. I spent a lot of time with them both and while I don't think it's as intense as with Matthew. Not only do I sit next to them but now I'm having dumb dreams of them fighting each other. It's SO ANNOYING!" he shouted, frustrated.
"Well, if it's getting so annoying, just tell them that you like them. Matthew seems okay with your sexual orientation. If you told him, he would understand. This other person, I don't know about them but you shouldn't be held back by your feelings. You'll be released if you just tell them," she advised.
"Look, it's not that easy. I don't want to be rejected, they're my friends and I don't want to ruin my friendship with them," he countered.
"Elijah, I'm sorry but you can't have everything in life. If they are true friends, they would understand and accept you. You can do that or you can do nothing and just be depressed," Monique said before getting up, patting his shoulder, and walking away.
Well, that's no help.
Meanwhile, Dustin and Calum were on a date and Calum urged him to introduce him to his parents. "Are you sure, I don't want you to get hurt?" Dustin asked, holding his hands.
"I am, come, let's go," he answers, pecking him on the cheek.
On their way to Dustin's home, Calum started feeling a bit nervous before getting comforted when Dustin keeps his hand, assuring him. Soon, they arrived and before taking a deep breath in, they were welcomed by Rohan who was not supposed to be there. "What are you doing here?"
"Thandi had to cancel because she is busy with her cousins' wedding. Apparently, she has to go back to South Africa in the Winter Holiday," he informed Dustin, aggravating him.
"Okay, can you get out of here?"
"Why is it because Calum's here?" he asked, "oh hi."
"Ugh fine. Just don't get it the way or add some dumb comments okay?" he warned Rohan, "where are mom and dad?"
"They are busy in the kitchen, beware," Rohan said, before running back upstairs.
"GULP!" they both swallowed before entering.
Dustin called out to his parents before they walked into the living room, confused as to who this new person is. "Who is this?" his father asked.
"He is my boyfriend."
"His parents looked confused before laughing out loud, confusing the pair. "Why are you guys laughing?" Dustin asked, getting defensive.
"No, we were just speaking about where you were."
FLASHBACK
"Dustin has been leaving the house a lot recently. I wonder why?" Dustin's mother mentioned, rolling out the dough.
"Do you think he has a boyfriend?" his father asked.
"Pfft, as if. That boy was as nervous and introverted as anyone. Who would like him?" they laughed.
PRESENT
"I can't believe you said that, I'm likable."
"We're sorry but can you blame us? You never leave your room, when we ask you simple questions, you just go back to your room, doing who knows what. That's why we're so shocked," his father explained.
"Well, this is Calum and he is my boyfriend."
"Hi," Calum waved, nervous.
"Come, sit, sit. We made some scones so just sit tight."
They sat on the couch before his parents joined them with a tray of scones, along with tea for the adults and some soft drinks for the teens. "Now, tell us. How did this start?"
Dustin and Calum explained how they meet, and why they like each other while hiding some things, like their online encounter. His parents were impressed by Calum and his commitment to Dustin, making his mother shed a tear. "Ma, why are you crying?"
"No, it's nothing. I'm just happy that you finally met someone that will protect you. My son has gone through so much and… and I can't thank you enough for making him happy," she cried, keeping his hand.
"I remember hearing him crying in his room but his room was locked. It wasn't the only time and we tried to help him in certain ways but we thought he had cut us off. Thank you Calum," his father added.
"You heard."
Dustin's eyes started hurting as they nodded before getting hugged by Calum and his parents. "Please, continue to project our flower," he lowered their head.
"Of course, I will love and protect him till the day I die. I swear," he committed before they shared a big hug.
After Calum left, Dustin sat down with his parents. "I'm sorry for making you worry. I didn't know this would happen."
"Don't apologize, we were being bad parents. If we were more involved then we could've been more helpful in your life," his father admitted.
"We have failed as parents."
"No, you haven't. I was not a proper son. I cut you guys out and it's my fault," Dustin apologized.
"We want you to know that we love you."
"And we can't wait to know your boyfriend more, bring him around more," his father added.
They ended the night off on a sweet note before Dustin went to his room and was joined by Rohan. "So how did it go?"
"Umm, very unexpected. They like him and want to see him more," he said with a smile.
"See, nothing to be afraid of," Rohan added.
"Other things were said, but I'm pretty sure you heard that."
"I did."
"I feel so guilty, if only I knew how I made them feel," he said, guilty.
"So you can just beat yourself up. Don't think about it too much, just think about the overall goal," Rohan advised.
"…"
"You can blame yourself for feeling that type of way, especially with the events in your life. Don't beat yourself up over things you can't control because now, your relationship with Mom and Dad is stronger, you're in love with someone too. Isn't that better?"
"I guess."
"See, when am I ever wrong?" he said, self-assured.
"A lot more than you think," he laughed before Rohan threw him with a pillow.
The month of October progressed faster than people has thought and soon, the biggest event for the school was approaching. The Halloween Dance. The day before however, Elijah and the group went to go pick their costumes from the Mall which, luckily, was selling them for the season. From witches, and serial killers, to fairies and movie icons, the mall had it all, overwhelming some of them. "What to pick, what to pick?" Ally repeated, browsing through the costumes.
"I already have a costume but I wanted to see your costume choices. Did any of you even plan on an outfit? I guess not since you're buying it last minute," Thandi mentioned.
"I was thinking I could come as an angel. I don't want to go all out and be like a monster, just something average," Elijah said.
"And you Dustin?"
"Hmm, I was hoping they had a Grim Reaper outfit but they're all out," he sulked.
"Hmm, how suspicious," Rohan murmured.
"As if, I just thought it was a cool outfit choice. I guess this will have to do it," he said, pointing at a Michael Myers outfit.
"So how does it look?"
Rohan walked out in his clown costume without any makeup. "I think with the makeup, it should look good," Ally answered.
"Everyone seems to be good. Ally, how's it going?" he asked.
"You know what. I'm going to be a witch but how about we add a slit and let's remove this hideous jacket. Add some fingerless gloves and don't forget the hat, and… voila. That's way better. Now I look good," she said, smiling at her reflection.
"I'm going to go buy some food, if anyone wants to join, they're free to do so," Dustin said, checking out.
"I'll come with," Elijah followed.
While the others were still at the costume shop, Dustin and Elijah went to buy something to eat. "Where's Calum?"
"He's busy. I wonder what costume he's going to wear. How's the love life?" Dustin asked, licking his ice cream.
"Don't even ask. The dreams are just too much, when I tell you how scared I am, it's an understatement."
"So, what, you're just going to endure it?" he asked.
"What else can I do, I'm not like Ally who can just announce their feelings to anyone," Elijah answered, flinging his hands as he spoke.
"I don't know what else I can say. Unless you do something, your tolerance is going to die out and you'll just be reduced to tears and tissues. Even if you have to tell one of them, it's a must," Dustin advised.
"I really want to, but it's like something is keeping me from doing it."
"You're afraid, afraid of being rejected. I would understand that for Tristan but Matthew seems to be more than okay with you. I'm telling you that the feeling is mutual."
"I don't know what you're seeing but I don't."
"I'm just saying, maybe you should try releasing those pent-up feelings and thoughts, it could do you a ton."
Elijah considered those wise words as the group headed home. Before entering his house, Matthew greeted him on the way back from the local supermarket. "I see you're prepping for the Halloween Dance. What is it?" Matthew asked, curious as to what was in the big white bag.
"It's a surprise. You have to wait to see tomorrow."
"That's a shame. If you have to know, my costume is no longer a hot dog. One of my friends gave me a costume, a devil. I don't think I look good though. It doesn't suit me well," he worried.
"Yeah sure. Someone as handsome as you will look bad. Please flatter us, non-attractive people," he joked.
"Haha, I think you look cute, I don't know about me though," Matthew replied, making Elijah blush, "anyway, I have to get back before my parents kill me."
"Bye, I'll see you tomorrow."
After greeting, Elijah entered but was still thinking about Matthew's words. "YOU LOOK CUTE."
I can't believe he said that.
Elijah had a mini breakdown before continuing with the day.
The next day was the spooky Halloween, as shown by all the decorations in the street. The school day was shorter, to make more room for the Dance and all the Halloween activities before that. At school, the entrance and most of the trees were covered in spider webs and hanging ghosts. Surprisingly, the educators were dressed as monsters to bring in the ghoulish spirit. Mr. Johnson, Elijah's registration educator dressed as the well-known Frankenstein. "Don't I look cool?" he asked as the class giggled.
The day went on and the school was dismissed early in preparation for the big Halloween Dance. Elijah got dressed as his angel, wearing a white pantsuit and a halo. He expected it to be the usual white dress but this did suit him more. Once was done, he waited outside for both Luke and Matthew. Luke dressed as a zombie; his makeup was done by Evelyn which looked oddly realistic. "How did Evelyn do that?" Elijah asked, intrigued.
"let's just say she has seen some things." Weird, but okay.
Soon, Matthew arrived in his devil costume and he, too, had a similar outfit to Elijah, spotting a red jacket, red denim-like pants, and a pointy tail, and some horns. Elijah couldn't say why, but he looked very good, especially the way he tried to look away from Elijah. "See, you don't look bad."
"Easy for you to say. You look very nice in your outfit, I look like some rip-off," he complained.
"Don't complain, let's go before we are all late," Elijah said before the few left for the Halloween Dance.
When they arrived, they meet up with their friends immediately. Tristan dressed as a vampire, making Elijah feel some way but avoiding it. "So where do we go?" Tristan asked.
"I guess we have to go the main hall, that's where everything I happening, isn't it?" Rohan answered before they left for the main hall which was full of students.
"I guess now, we just have to wait," Dustin said, as the group got their tables.
Suddenly, the lights cut out and a deep, shaky laugh was heard throughout the hall. "Hahaha, everyone in one place."
"Oh no, not this again," Dustin complained.
"Throughout this week, you have been tortured by my presence. You all have been gathered here for a reason… a sacrifice…"
The light turned on and on the stage, was none other than The Grim Reaper. "Oh, my word, they're here."
"A sacrifice of fun."
"Fun?"
They removed their mask as a loud gasp was made throughout the hall. "Welcome to the Halloween Festival," Thandi said as the crowd cheered.
"Hmm, I knew it was her all along," Dustin concluded.
"The entire football knew, we were her little prankers if you may. It was fun," Calum revealed.
"So that was you?" Elijah asked.
"Yeah, we helped with all of this."
Soon, the hall quieted down and Thandi explained the rest of the event. "We have many activities for you all, such as a pumpkin pie-eating challenge, we have apple bobbing, and much more. Every table has a pamphlet for you to find out in more detail. All I can say is that it is a jam-packed event. The dance will have tonight, with some delectable food and ghoulish music. I'm very happy that this will become a school tradition and many to come," Thandi announced, applauded by the crowd, "forward!"
And so, the Halloween Festival now began as the crowd dispersed throughout the school with many different activities and events happening. "So why did you change it from Dance to Festival?" Ally asked.
"I figured that dance doesn't describe how big this event is, so now it will be known as the Halloween Festival, happening every Halloween. Isn't that just great?" Thandi answered.
"That makes sense. Let's go look around."
From prize-giving competitions to costume competitions, the event was off to a wonderful note, but the night is still young. After taking a lot of pictures, everyone gathered in the main hall for the Halloween Dance. "Care for a dance?" Calum asked, bowing.
"Sure," Dustin agreed, taking his hand before the group headed to the dance floor. Elijah sat aside, watching his friends dancing to their heart's desire. Elijah looked at both Tristan and Matthew, before diving deeper into his thoughts and feelings. While his feelings kept trying to make him join them, he used the same excuse… "I don't know how to dance so ill rather just sit here."
Meanwhile, another student was up to no good. "Ha-ha, how about some alcohol to spice it up, surely no one will know."
Elijah, deep in thought, looked over to the punch bowl and walked towards it, drinking a cup and taking another when sitting down. It tasted a bit bitter but not that much. Elijah kept on drinking before he was approached by Matthew. "Why are you just sitting here, come join us."
"I… I… can't," he mumbled.
"Why not?"
Suddenly, Elijah's eyesight became blurry and when he looked up, it was as if there were two Matthews. "You know, come… come… let's go… to the dance floor. I have to tell you something," he laughed, pulling Matthew to the dance floor. Elijah started moving and dancing, enough to make Matthew laugh.
"You know, I… have been feeling… some weeeeeird things. Y'know," he mumbled, pausing along his words.
"What have you been feeling?" Matthew asked.
*belch* "It's been kind of… annoying but… you have been on my… mind for the… longest time. I like you," he smiled, like a goof.
"Uhh, really? Have you been drinking, it seems like you—"
Without a thought in his mind, Elijah leaned forward, doing something he'd soon regret.
TO BE CONTINUED…