Soar's Pov
I couldn't deny the flutter in my chest whenever Adrian looked at me. But his hot-and-cold behavior frustrated me.
First, he'd distance himself, then show up unexpectedly, and now... nothing.
No more stolen glances, no more attempts to talk.
I was torn. Part of me longed for his attention; the other part resented his games.
Time to take control.
I noticed Timothy, a charming classmate, often glancing my way. Why not use him to make Adrian jealous?
I started sitting with Timothy during lunch, laughing at his jokes, and "accidentally" touching his arm.
Adrian's eyes narrowed whenever he saw us together.
Mission accomplished.
But as I played this game, I realized Timothy was genuinely interested. His kind words and smiles made me feel seen.
Was I using him? Or did I truly enjoy his company?
As Adrian's gaze intensified, I wondered:
Was this revenge or self-discovery?
One thing was certain: I wouldn't be Adrian's emotional yo-yo anymore.
I'd take charge of my feelings and make choices that benefited me.
The question was, what did I truly want?
Timothy's gentle affection or Adrian's tumultuous passion?
************* ************** *****************
Timothy's sudden distance caught me off guard. I thought we had a connection, but apparently, I was just a temporary distraction.
Frustrated and hurt, I decided to forget everyone and focus on myself. No more games, no more pretending.
But as I withdrew, my emotions turned icy. I became rude and cold, pushing everyone away.
Classmates whispered why behind my back, resenting my newfound attitude.
"I don't care," I told myself.
That was until Adrian's laughter echoed through the halls, surrounded by his new admirers.
Why was he moving on so easily?
A pang of jealousy stabbed me, but I suppressed it.
"I'm done," I repeated.
Time like a rolling stream was quick, days turned into months, months into years and soon we were our final year of secondary school.
"I'd grown accustomed to solitude, and the loneliness no longer stung. Instead, I found solace in my achievements. Award days became my highlight, as I consistently received recognition. With each accolade, I walked with pride.
My mom attended one of our award nights. As I accepted my award, the applause and camera flashes created a surreal atmosphere. My mom's warm smile and shining eyes made my heart swell.
'Soar, you've exceeded my expectations!' she said, her voice trembling with pride. 'I'm honored to be your mom.'
Her words echoed in my mind, healing old wounds."
Her approval filled me with happiness, fulfilling a lifelong longing.
For years, pleasing her seemed impossible, but now she cherished me, proudly showcasing me to others. I basked in her admiration, feeling truly happy."
That was the last award night before our final year.
***********************************************
Soon we resumed for our final year, I mentally prepared myself for it. I still hadn't been able to make a friend, peace 2 my only friend had been transferred to another school during the holidays. I knew it was going to be hard having no one now but I willed my spirit strong preparing for anyone who wouldn't mind their business.
Things, however took a turn, a new boy entered our class! Don't get me wrong, different boys have been entering our class since but this one was different. Most people don't change schools in their final year so why was he here? And for him to be admitted, it shows he met the standards. Everyone was talking about him but I hadn't met him yet. We were in class, when the teacher walked in with a student.
Tall, dark-haired, and piercing blue eyes.
He smiled, and something stirred within me.
"Hi, I'm Elijah," he said, extending his hand.
His warmth was infectious, and for the first time in weeks, I felt a genuine smile spread across my face.
"Welcome to the chaos," I said, shaking his hand.
Elijah's gaze lingered, and I sensed a spark.
Maybe, just maybe, this newcomer could help me shake off the past.
Little did I know, Elijah's arrival would set off a chain reaction, changing everything.