.jpeg)
{That changed everything ✓}
By KELSAY (M.M.A.)
CHAPTER 16
MARIANA
I hurried down from the stairs with my bag hanging on my right shoulder.
I ran through our hall and opened the door.
I glared at him when I got closer to him.
“I told you not to come, didn’t I?”
“You did but you know, I love to do things my way.”
” Well, you chose the wrong way. You can’t force your way here and expect me to agree. No way! ”
” You might be a boss and try to act bossy around but you can’t boss me. Instead, I boss you!”
” Huh?” My eyes widened on him.
” You heard it right, now shall we leave?”
” Oh hello, snap out of it Mr. You’re in my fucking territory so you should know how to talk.”
” Yeah, I know and I won’t like to spend a nano moment here.”
” What are you waiting for then?”
” You.”
” Then forget about it because ain’t gonna come with you.” I began to walk to my car.
Five seconds passed and I found myself reeling backwards as though gravity was now behind me and then I felt myself caged in the hold of a strong arm.
” We’re going together doll face” he pulled me back by my waist with his two hands. “How can you think of leaving without me doll face.”
My eyes snapped to his and for a moment, we locked gazes. I got lost in his mesmerizing eyes and found it hard to look away.
His hands moved on my waist and grazed my bare skin, awaking me from my trance.
I jerked back as he also took a step back and cleared his throat.
“Shall we go?” He asked with a smile dancing on his lips.
Jerk!
I was left speechless but when I remembered why he decided all of a sudden to come to my house, I flared again.
So on the way, I hissed through clenched teeth. ” Who told you to come to my house?”
” No one told me not to, so I came ”
“You’re crazy, I almost had a heart attack”.
Yeah it’s true. What if my mum or dad saw him? They’ll think I’ve started associating myself with bad boys and worse they might warn he not to come here again.
Well that’ll be my advantage though.
” Why? Does seeing me affect your heart that much?” He said smirking smugly.
“Yes. Seeing you is as horrifying as watching the nun.”
He laughed. “No worries, doll face. No one can help disliking this Brad Pitt for long. You will get over it soon.”
“I’m not one of your senseless fan girls. You can’t manipulate me with that charming smile of yours” I rattled in a run as I stomped on beside him.
He suddenly halted his step, “What was that?”
I looked at him. He was barely forcing back a smile. At that point, my face began to burn fiery red.
Numbskull, what have you said?
Charming smile, for real?
I wished I had a stroke right there and then. My body seemed to burn beyond embarrassment. I think I was also beginning to sweat. I blinked my gaze away from him. I couldn’t stand looking at him.
“I….Uh…I,I,.” I stuttered badly.
Now that was even more senseless. Why can’t I just stay shut and simply ignore it like it was absolutely not a big deal!
Maybe he noticed how embarrassed I was that he spoke no more and instead he quickly walked forward and opened the front seat, passenger door for me saying, ” Your drive awaits, my doll face ”
My entire body benumbed over the already killing excessive embarrassment.
I became a solid sculpture.
My? Beautiful?; that was least expected; the last thing I will expect to hear from his mouth.
I stared at him. He gazed back at me and a little later tilted his head to one shoulder as if gazing at a kindergarten girl, smiling softly.
Am I supposed to blush harder?
Maybe, but the hint of softness in the way he gazed gave me strength to breath and recollect my strayed senses.
Finally, I answered, ” Not yours, jerk, “and stepped up.
He pushed his lower lip out and pouted like unhappy child.
It was cute. I almost smiled at him.
So I looked away instantly and smiled to myself as I climbed in.
He closed the door behind me and went round the front of the car to get to his seat.
It was impossible not to watch him.
Even just the way he walked was out of words.
He was simply dressed in a maroon sweatshirt with a logo and dark washed jeans but he looked like he fell down from heaven.
Why does he look good in everything?
Even the way he walked was attractive; straight, bold and masculine.
When he got in, I swallowed my smile, shoved away my secret thought, and sat expressionless.
I felt like a small devil
After a few minutes of driving to God knows where, we sat in peaceful silence.
I could see him smiling to himself time and time again from the corner of my eyes.
Apparently, his humor was feeding on my senseless rattle. I squirmed in my seat thinking of it.
Charming smile, seriously?
“Where did you go, doll face?”
“What do you mean?”
“You left California for 10 years. Where did you go?”
“Oh” I mouthed as my mind replayed what happened ten years ago?
Did he know me since then?
I looked at him for a second and looked away.
Is he not aware of the tragic incident that happened? Well, if he’s aware then I don’t think he’ll ask but being the jerk he was, he might be asking to get back at me.
But why is he asking of that now? Did I know him but somehow forgot?
I thought I recovered all my memory.
“I came here. Australia.” I replied half-truth.
Then he was quiet.
I stole a glance his way and saw that the smug expression was gone and he was pensively looking ahead of the road.
A little while later, “He mumbled almost like a whisper, ” What took you so long to come back ? ”
“Huh?”
Strange.
Now am sure he knew me somewhere when I was little in California, I guess.
I can also bet that he’s not aware of the tragic incident. If he knew, he wouldn’t have said what he just asked.
I saw him immediately bit his lower lip.
The ride was becoming awkward.
I struggled to form an answer but only made out a row of stammering.
I can’t tell this jerk anything about me, he can’t be trusted.
He cleared his throat and spoke, “Now that I have your number, expect my call anytime”
I guess clearing his throat was his way of wiping off awkwardness. It wasn’t the first time he’d done it.
Now, he was back to his usual smug self.
“Who gave you my number?”
“I have my way, doll face. You should know that by now” He flashed his perfect set of teeth.
“Don’t come to pick me again” I reminded him.
The remaining of our drive was the jumble of our squabbling , his teasing and my mockery.
“Where are we going?” I finally asked.
“We’re already here.”
” What? Where?”
“My house.”
” What the fuck? Why the heck will you take me to your house?”
” To revise, that’s all.” Then he looked at me with that intoxicating smile.
“Or do you have other plans for us.”
And that knocked the air out of my lungs and my face went red.
“Seriously?” I whispered.
When he parked in the driveway, the moment he turned off the engine, I stepped out before he did and marched off at full speed without looking back even though I didn’t know where I was going but I just didn’t want to be close to him.
I didn’t know how far I went until I knocked into something or the thing knocked into me.
I looked down to see a little girl with blue eyes and a long dark hair on the ground. She must be eighth years old.
She looked familiar but I can’t place where I saw her.
I stretched my hands to help her up but someone else did.
I looked up to see Novan with a deep frown. Without looking at me, he took the girl by the hand and walked her to a door, entered and slammed it shut.
What the heck? How dare him bring me out here then in one second, ignore me like a plaque?
Who does this guy think he is?
And who’s that girl and how is she related to the bad boy?
I decided to follow them uninvitedly.
I walked fast and entered the house. Once I was in, my jaw dropped.
The place looked so beautiful, the whole wall was made of glass.
I looked up the stairs and saw Novan and the girl disappeared behind a wall.
I took the stairs hurriedly and followed them.
I stopped when I heard Novan’s hushed voice. It seems he was scolding the girl.
“Why did you come out when I told you not to?” He said.
I walked closer and placed my ear on the door to hear their conversation clearly.
Such a bad habit but I can’t help it. I want to know what Novan was hiding.
“I missed you so when I heard your car coming in, I decided to come welcome you.” She said in a tiny voice and my heart went out to her that moment.
“Alright, but please don’t come out again okay?”
There was silence after that.
Just when I decided to step back, the door opened and I stumbled back and landed on my butt.
What the fuck?
I quickly got up and wiped imaginary dirt from my hands.
“Seriously? Are you this nosy?” He asked, scoffed and walked past me.
Oh gosh!
How do I face him now?
I’m so damn embarrassed.
Why the heck do i have to eavesdrop?
°
°..........
THE KISS
{That changed everything ✓}
By KELSAY (M.M.A.)
CHAPTER 17
MARIANA
When he left me standing there all by myself, I didn’t know either to follow him or go back home.
Just then, I heard a squeaky sound and looked to the door. I saw the little girl staring at me through a small opening of the door.
I smiled at her.
She didn’t smile back but instead, she disappeared later and passed me a paper from the door.
I got puzzled for a while but took it.
I was about to open it wh when Novan suddenly appeared.
I folded it neatly and hid it in my pocket.
“Will you stand there all day?” He asked with a hint of anger and exasperation.
Instead of answering him, I moved passed him.
***
“So you guys didn’t learn anything?” Betsy asked as she took my phone.
We were sitting in the lobby.
“I left because I couldn’t stand the awkward moment within us”.
” Seriously, you shouldn’t have creeped on them like that.”
” Yeah, I wish I didn’t but it has already happened”
” If I were you, I won’t show my face to him again. Gosh, what you did was bad.”
“Stop rubbing it in my face Betsy. I know what I did was awful and I regretted okay? Just that I was so curious… I couldn’t help it.”
“Got some plans for the weekend? ” She asked while scrolling through my phone.
I don’t really hide anything from her and besides I have nothing to hide.
“Who’s name is stored ‘Hottie’ ?”
I cringed when I remembered storing Novan’s name as that. It was when I was in the car and he was rounding it to the driver’s seat then. I wasn’t thinking straight when I saved it that way but now am back to my senses.
I was about to answer when she asked another question. “You’re meeting Shane tomorrow?”
“Yes. That reminds me, care to escort me to the salon? I need a change over.”
“At your service. When is that?”
” Tomorrow morning.”
****
The next day, Betsy and I could be seen going from shops to shops in search of the perfect outfit.
Well, we should’ve browsed for it and get it delivered but we thought since we’re out, why not shop ourselves?
“What of this?” Betsy showed me a particular dress when we arrived at one of the shops.
“Nope.. I want something simple. It’s not like I’m dressing to impress him. I just need something to suit the occasion.” I declined.
” Alright boss. ”
My eyes caught a beautiful dress and it really caught my attention. I walked to it and was about to pick it but someone did before I.
I looked up to see Aria. “Hi” I muttered and smiled.
She hissed and walked past me with the dress. What’s wrong with her?
I walked back to Betsy and signaled for her to see the trailing back of Aria. She just walked out of the boutique with the dress.
“What crawled up her ass and died there?” Betsy teased and shrugged.
” Let get going Betsy. It’s seems I have better clothings in my wardrobe than the ones in all the boutiques we visited. ” I said and pulled her along.
On our way out, I met grandpa Nicholas.
He was surprised to me as much as I was.
“Hi granny, came to get something?”
“Yeah, I’m actually here to see someone. ”
” Ohh. ” I muttered.
” See you at home then. ” He said.
I hugged him before he walk into the boutique. My eyes went to the billboard in front of the the boutique and that was when I realized that I was actually at Aria’s mum boutique.
No wonder I saw her in there. I actually thought she came shopping as well.
We got back into my car and we drove to the salon where I bleached my hair to gray.
“How does my hair look?” I asked as I examined myself in the mirror.
“Gross.” She replied.
“Huh? It’s cute.”
***
Soon it was dark and I was all dressed up, waiting for Shane. Mum has promised to make me up but unfortunately, she got stuck somewhere.
I dressed as simply as I could in just a skirt with an off shouldered top and knee high boots.
My make up was moderate, simple but very beautiful and classy.
“Where are you going all dressed up at this time?” Marion asked and hopped on my bed.
“Going to meet someone.”
“Can I come with?”
“No.” I said flatly.
“Why?”
“Because…” I stopped when I heard a car drive in.
” I’ll get going Marion, see you later.” I kissed him and ran out.
I came back again and checked myself in the mirror for the last time before going out.
I signed as the night air hit my bare shoulders.
I walked to the car and the door was opened so I hop in.
“Hello.” I whispered and closed the door.
The car drove out of the driveway that instant.
“Hello Doll face.”
My eyes snapped to the person beside me. Why didn’t I noticed that it was Novan?
“It’s you!”
“Yes doll face..”
“Stop the car Novan, I have somewhere to go.”
” With me is where you belong sweetheart, you ain’t going out with anyone. Not when I’m alive.”
” What? Are you crazy! Look Novan, you chose the wrong time. This isn’t the time for silly jokes. Someone is actually waiting for me.”
” So?” He scoffed and increased the speed.
” Stop the damn car Novan!” I yelled when I saw Shane’s car passed ours. He’s probably going to my house.
°
°°°°°°°°°°
{That changed everything ✓}
By KELSAY (M.M.A.)
CHAPTER 17
MARIANA
When he left me standing there all by myself, I didn’t know either to follow him or go back home.
Just then, I heard a squeaky sound and looked to the door. I saw the little girl staring at me through a small opening of the door.
I smiled at her.
She didn’t smile back but instead, she disappeared later and passed me a paper from the door.
I got puzzled for a while but took it.
I was about to open it wh when Novan suddenly appeared.
I folded it neatly and hid it in my pocket.
“Will you stand there all day?” He asked with a hint of anger and exasperation.
Instead of answering him, I moved passed him.
***
“So you guys didn’t learn anything?” Betsy asked as she took my phone.
We were sitting in the lobby.
“I left because I couldn’t stand the awkward moment within us”.
” Seriously, you shouldn’t have creeped on them like that.”
” Yeah, I wish I didn’t but it has already happened”
” If I were you, I won’t show my face to him again. Gosh, what you did was bad.”
“Stop rubbing it in my face Betsy. I know what I did was awful and I regretted okay? Just that I was so curious… I couldn’t help it.”
“Got some plans for the weekend? ” She asked while scrolling through my phone.
I don’t really hide anything from her and besides I have nothing to hide.
“Who’s name is stored ‘Hottie’ ?”
I cringed when I remembered storing Novan’s name as that. It was when I was in the car and he was rounding it to the driver’s seat then. I wasn’t thinking straight when I saved it that way but now am back to my senses.
I was about to answer when she asked another question. “You’re meeting Shane tomorrow?”
“Yes. That reminds me, care to escort me to the salon? I need a change over.”
” Tomorrow morning.”
****
The next day, Betsy and I could be seen going from shops to shops in search of the perfect outfit.
Well, we should’ve browsed for it and get it delivered but we thought since we’re out, why not shop ourselves?
“What of this?” Betsy showed me a particular dress when we arrived at one of the shops.
“Nope.. I want something simple. It’s not like I’m dressing to impress him. I just need something to suit the occasion.” I declined.
” Alright boss. ”
My eyes caught a beautiful dress and it really caught my attention. I walked to it and was about to pick it but someone did before I.
I looked up to see Aria. “Hi” I muttered and smiled.
She hissed and walked past me with the dress. What’s wrong with her?
I walked back to Betsy and signaled for her to see the trailing back of Aria. She just walked out of the boutique with the dress.
“What crawled up her ass and died there?” Betsy teased and shrugged.
” Let get going Betsy. It’s seems I have better clothings in my wardrobe than the ones in all the boutiques we visited. ” I said and pulled her along.
On our way out, I met grandpa Nicholas.
He was surprised to me as much as I was.
“Hi granny, came to get something?”
“Yeah, I’m actually here to see someone. ”
” Ohh. ” I muttered.
” See you at home then. ” He said.
I hugged him before he walk into the boutique. My eyes went to the billboard in front of the the boutique and that was when I realized that I was actually at Aria’s mum boutique.
No wonder I saw her in there. I actually thought she came shopping as well.
We got back into my car and we drove to the salon where I bleached my hair to gray.
“How does my hair look?” I asked as I examined myself in the mirror.
“Gross.” She replied.
“Huh? It’s cute.”
***
Soon it was dark and I was all dressed up, waiting for Shane. Mum has promised to make me up but unfortunately, she got stuck somewhere.
I dressed as simply as I could in just a skirt with an off shouldered top and knee high boots.
My make up was moderate, simple but very beautiful and classy.
“Where are you going all dressed up at this time?” Marion asked and hopped on my bed.
“Going to meet someone.”
“Can I come with?”
“No.” I said flatly.
“Why?”
“Because…” I stopped when I heard a car drive in.
” I’ll get going Marion, see you later.” I kissed him and ran out.
I came back again and checked myself in the mirror for the last time before going out.
I signed as the night air hit my bare shoulders.
I walked to the car and the door was opened so I hop in.
“Hello.” I whispered and closed the door.
The car drove out of the driveway that instant.
“Hello Doll face.”
My eyes snapped to the person beside me. Why didn’t I noticed that it was Novan?
“It’s you!”
“Yes doll face..”
“Stop the car Novan, I have somewhere to go.”
” With me is where you belong sweetheart, you ain’t going out with anyone. Not when I’m alive.”
” What? Are you crazy! Look Novan, you chose the wrong time. This isn’t the time for silly jokes. Someone is actually waiting for me.”
” So?” He scoffed and increased the speed.
” Stop the damn car Novan!” I yelled when I saw Shane’s car passed ours. He’s probably going to my house.
°
°°°°°°°°°°
THE KISS
{That changed everything ✓}
By KELSAY (M.M.A.)
CHAPTER 18
MARIANA
” Stop the damn car Novan!” I yelled when I saw Shane’s car passed ours. He’s probably going to my house.
“So you can go to him? I’m sorry but not under my watch. I can’t believe you got all dressed up to meet some puppet. ”
” He’s not a puppet and please stop acting like a maniac. ”
” If you follow him, he’ll end up taking you to watch some boring movie then bring you back and that makes him a puppet. ”
” Stop this nonsense will you? I’ve had enough and I would take no more. ”
” Oh yeah.. ” he chuckled and continued driving.
Just then, my phone began to ring. I looked at the screen and it was Shane.
I stared at it for a while and not knowing what to do till it ended.
After a while, he called again then again and again.
“You’re causing damage to my eardrum with that terrible ringtone of yours. Pick up or I’ll do that for you. ”
” Shut up! You won’t dare! ”
” Oh wow, how about I pick it up and tell him that he should go fuck himself in hell and leave my girl the hell alone. ”
” Huh? Your girl? ”
” Yes? Don’t you know? Oh please come on! ”
” What’s wrong with you? Are you drunk or something? ”
” Am yet to do that.. get drunk with you at some freaking pup. It’s better than wasting your precious time with that jerk call Shane. ”
” What? Wait! Do you guys know each other? ”
” Not your business doll face. Am just surprised how fast you accept to go out with him. ”
I couldn’t help but roll my eyes at him.
” That’s what I call cute.” He commented and chuckled again.
He sure must be enjoying all this.
“We make a perfect pair, am also cute.” He admonished and grinned.
“Perfect pair my foot! Keep deceiving yourself when we all know that you’re as cute as a gorilla.”
He roared into laughter.
I wasn’t expecting that!
” Seriously? You said I was cute just yesterday. You said I have a charming smile remember? ”
” Yeah yeah, it was a slipped of tongue.”
” Sure it was.” He teased.
” Where are you driving us too?”
” Somewhere we can have a free booze.”
” Idiot, you should at least think before letting anything come out of that empty head of yours.” I chided.
” Okay sexy.”
Sexy?
He’s seriously crazy and needed to visit a mental asylum as soon as possible else… I don’t know.
~MARION~
I came to have a chat with Mariana but unfortunately, she was dressed up to go out.
Girls! They’re so ridiculous including my sis. No offense but she has started acting strange.
I don’t understand so I’ll ask Dad about it. I want to know what was wrong with my sister and why she has suddenly started going out in the evening.
I was about to leave her room when I spotted a folded paper in front of the bathhouse.
Curious to know what was inside, I ran to it and picked it up.
I opened it up and read what was inside.
“So this was where Mariana was going? I’d love to meet the person who wrote this letter to her and if it’s a boy, I’ll warn him to stay away from my sister.” I thought and went out.
I actually sneaked out because I won’t be allowed out in case any of my family sees me.
I called my driver and he picked me up to the location on the paper.
“Are we not there yet?” I kept asking as the car drove non-stop.
“Soon.” He stated.
After five minutes, the car stopped in front of a gazebo which was adjacent to a glamorous building.
“Wait for me at the far end, I’ll call you when am done.” I told the driver and got out .
I stood in front of the gazebo without knowing my next move.
My gaze lowered to my feet and that was when I saw rose petals leading into the gazebo.
I followed it till I was in fully.
A little girl ran towards me but stopped halfway.
“Who are you?” She demanded in a tiny voice.
“You too who are you? I was supposed to meet someone else” I said.
“Me too, I’m not sure you’re the one I wanted to see. I should get going.” She said politely.
I nodded.
She walked past me but returned again and stared at me. “Won’t you go?”
“I will.”
“Alright.” She replied. ” I’m sorry..,” she tried to apologise. Before starting to walk away.
“You’re cute.” I mouthed.
She turned with a smile and I didn’t miss her dimpled cheeks.
MARIANA
He finally stopped the car in front of a pup as he said earlier.
After he got out, I was still sitting in the car.
“Will you come out or you need a bulldozer to do that?” He asked sluggishly.
” Maybe.” I said.
He smiled and came to my side.
” Tadaa, am the bulldozer.” He said, eyes twinkling with open arms.
” What? Hell no!”
” Yes babe, you asked for it.”
“You won’t dare touch me.” I warned.
” Oh, then watch me do it.” With that, he lifted me up on his shoulders, locked the car and carried me into the pup while I screamed my lungs out.
“Put me down! You know I don’t come to this places.” I complained.
” Why?”
” They fall under my rank besides it will be disastrous if the media gets to know that I came to a pup and it’s gonna shake the Dominguez empire.”
” You don’t have to worry doll face, this is a no ordinary pup. Only the bosses like us enjoy it.”
” Whatever! I just don’t wanna…” I stopped when we bumped into someone.
Novan placed me down.
When I looked up at the person we bumped into, my jaw dropped.
Standing in front of me with a disappointed look was Shane.
I looked at Novan but he was busy smirking and he did the worst when he’s hands move to my waist possessively.
Shane gaze settled on that before he quickly diverted his eyes to something else.
I felt like someone who has been caught stealing.
I was supposed to be with him and not the crazy fellow Novan.
How do I explain this to him?
I shifted uncomfortably and moved Novan’s hands from my waist.
“Hi…am sorry.”
“No. I understand.” He said and started walking his way out of the crowd.
I feel so bad for him.
I started running towards him but Novan got hold of my hand and pulled me back such that, i crushed on his chest and he immediately engulfed me in a hug.
“Where do you think you’re going doll face? We ain’t done yet!”
” Huh? ”
°
°°°°°°°
{That changed everything ✓}
By KELSAY (M.M.A.)
CHAPTER 18
MARIANA
” Stop the damn car Novan!” I yelled when I saw Shane’s car passed ours. He’s probably going to my house.
“So you can go to him? I’m sorry but not under my watch. I can’t believe you got all dressed up to meet some puppet. ”
” He’s not a puppet and please stop acting like a maniac. ”
” If you follow him, he’ll end up taking you to watch some boring movie then bring you back and that makes him a puppet. ”
” Stop this nonsense will you? I’ve had enough and I would take no more. ”
” Oh yeah.. ” he chuckled and continued driving.
Just then, my phone began to ring. I looked at the screen and it was Shane.
I stared at it for a while and not knowing what to do till it ended.
After a while, he called again then again and again.
“You’re causing damage to my eardrum with that terrible ringtone of yours. Pick up or I’ll do that for you. ”
” Shut up! You won’t dare! ”
” Oh wow, how about I pick it up and tell him that he should go fuck himself in hell and leave my girl the hell alone. ”
” Huh? Your girl? ”
” Yes? Don’t you know? Oh please come on! ”
” What’s wrong with you? Are you drunk or something? ”
” Am yet to do that.. get drunk with you at some freaking pup. It’s better than wasting your precious time with that jerk call Shane. ”
” What? Wait! Do you guys know each other? ”
” Not your business doll face. Am just surprised how fast you accept to go out with him. ”
I couldn’t help but roll my eyes at him.
” That’s what I call cute.” He commented and chuckled again.
He sure must be enjoying all this.
“We make a perfect pair, am also cute.” He admonished and grinned.
“Perfect pair my foot! Keep deceiving yourself when we all know that you’re as cute as a gorilla.”
He roared into laughter.
I wasn’t expecting that!
” Seriously? You said I was cute just yesterday. You said I have a charming smile remember? ”
” Yeah yeah, it was a slipped of tongue.”
” Sure it was.” He teased.
” Where are you driving us too?”
” Somewhere we can have a free booze.”
” Idiot, you should at least think before letting anything come out of that empty head of yours.” I chided.
” Okay sexy.”
Sexy?
He’s seriously crazy and needed to visit a mental asylum as soon as possible else… I don’t know.
~MARION~
I came to have a chat with Mariana but unfortunately, she was dressed up to go out.
Girls! They’re so ridiculous including my sis. No offense but she has started acting strange.
I don’t understand so I’ll ask Dad about it. I want to know what was wrong with my sister and why she has suddenly started going out in the evening.
I was about to leave her room when I spotted a folded paper in front of the bathhouse.
Curious to know what was inside, I ran to it and picked it up.
I opened it up and read what was inside.
“So this was where Mariana was going? I’d love to meet the person who wrote this letter to her and if it’s a boy, I’ll warn him to stay away from my sister.” I thought and went out.
I actually sneaked out because I won’t be allowed out in case any of my family sees me.
I called my driver and he picked me up to the location on the paper.
“Are we not there yet?” I kept asking as the car drove non-stop.
“Soon.” He stated.
After five minutes, the car stopped in front of a gazebo which was adjacent to a glamorous building.
“Wait for me at the far end, I’ll call you when am done.” I told the driver and got out .
I stood in front of the gazebo without knowing my next move.
My gaze lowered to my feet and that was when I saw rose petals leading into the gazebo.
I followed it till I was in fully.
A little girl ran towards me but stopped halfway.
“Who are you?” She demanded in a tiny voice.
“You too who are you? I was supposed to meet someone else” I said.
“Me too, I’m not sure you’re the one I wanted to see. I should get going.” She said politely.
I nodded.
She walked past me but returned again and stared at me. “Won’t you go?”
“I will.”
“Alright.” She replied. ” I’m sorry..,” she tried to apologise. Before starting to walk away.
“You’re cute.” I mouthed.
She turned with a smile and I didn’t miss her dimpled cheeks.
MARIANA
He finally stopped the car in front of a pup as he said earlier.
After he got out, I was still sitting in the car.
“Will you come out or you need a bulldozer to do that?” He asked sluggishly.
” Maybe.” I said.
He smiled and came to my side.
” Tadaa, am the bulldozer.” He said, eyes twinkling with open arms.
” What? Hell no!”
” Yes babe, you asked for it.”
“You won’t dare touch me.” I warned.
” Oh, then watch me do it.” With that, he lifted me up on his shoulders, locked the car and carried me into the pup while I screamed my lungs out.
“Put me down! You know I don’t come to this places.” I complained.
” Why?”
” They fall under my rank besides it will be disastrous if the media gets to know that I came to a pup and it’s gonna shake the Dominguez empire.”
” You don’t have to worry doll face, this is a no ordinary pup. Only the bosses like us enjoy it.”
” Whatever! I just don’t wanna…” I stopped when we bumped into someone.
Novan placed me down.
When I looked up at the person we bumped into, my jaw dropped.
Standing in front of me with a disappointed look was Shane.
I looked at Novan but he was busy smirking and he did the worst when he’s hands move to my waist possessively.
Shane gaze settled on that before he quickly diverted his eyes to something else.
I felt like someone who has been caught stealing.
I was supposed to be with him and not the crazy fellow Novan.
How do I explain this to him?
I shifted uncomfortably and moved Novan’s hands from my waist.
“Hi…am sorry.”
“No. I understand.” He said and started walking his way out of the crowd.
I feel so bad for him.
I started running towards him but Novan got hold of my hand and pulled me back such that, i crushed on his chest and he immediately engulfed me in a hug.
“Where do you think you’re going doll face? We ain’t done yet!”
” Huh? ”
°
°°°°°°°
THE KISS
{That changed everything ✓}
By KELSAY (M.M.A.)
CHAPTER 19
MARIANA
“Where do you think you’re going doll face? We ain’t done yet!” He rasps, sending shivers down my spine.
” Huh? ”
” You heard me.”
I jerked away from him and without sparing a glance, I ran in the direction of Shane.
The pup wasn’t so crowded so I saw him chatting with some guys in front of the bar.
Shane doesn’t look like the party type and if anyone had told me beforehand, I would’ve gone out of my way to defend him.
So was this the place he planned on bringing me? I doubt.
I reach to where he was and turned him by the shoulder to me but surprisingly, it wasn’t him.
“Sorry.” I muttered before running out.
I stood at the entrance and craned my neck in case I could see his car leaving the driveway.
I felt someone beside while I was busy craning my neck.
“Is he gone yet?” Novan teased as he also craned his neck.
“It’s all your fault.” I accused and took a step from him.
“I’m glad.” He replied smirked. “At least you won’t get to spend time with him.”
“Enemy of progress.” I snorted.
” Really.” He laughed.
” But you guys really look alike.” I commented.
“What the hell! Don’t compare me to him.”
” Will you deny the resemblance between you and him?”
” Don’t be a fool, we’re one.”
” What do you mean?”
” Did I say something?” He asked back.
” Of course you did, what do you mean by you guys are one?”
Instead of answering, his eyes raked my body and he scoffed.
“Don’t tell me you bleached your hair all for him.”
I didn’t have Shane in mind before bleaching my hair but if that is what he’s thinking now, then why not infuriate him further.
“What if I did it to impress him?”
He scoffed once more, “you should try harder next time, you look horrible.”
What!
” And if you’re with me now, then I won’t wish to see this horrible hair. You actually look like a ghost.” He spatted and began pulling me along to the car.
I was too shock to react so I just followed.
“Where are you taking me to?” I asked when he began to speed once we got into the car.
“You ruined my boozing moment so I must as well ruined this stupid hair of yours.”
” Huh? What are you gonna do?” I shrieked.
” Cut your hair off.”
I looked at him for any trace of humor on his face but he was dead serious.
“You won’t dare Novan.” I screamed.
“Love to see me try?”
” Do you have a problem with either of us?” I asked since he was acting as if Shane and him were sworn enemies.
“No..you both are annoying.”
“That does not answer my question.”
” Do you talk like this all the time? Or you’re just being nosy?” He growl irritatingly.
I went silent and look through the window.
My hands found their way into my bag and brought out my smartphone.
I missed a call from mum,dad and a thousand from Shane.
I texted mum and dad that I was okay and that I’ll come home soon then apologise to Shane for disappointing him while promising to make it up to him.
He didn’t reply quickly so I left to chat Betsy but realized that she has not been online since 9pm. Its 11pm now, almost 12am and I wondered where he was taking me too.
I moved my gaze to him and our eyes suddenly met which revealed that he has constantly been looking at me.
I gulped and looked down to my lap. I hate how awkward and thick the air is around us.
It doesn’t suit us. Novan and I were known for our constantly bantering but today is just different.
“Can you take me home.”
It sounded more like a question.
“No!” He stated. “It’s too late, we’re already here.”
I was forced to look out of the window as he pulled in front of the familiar building called his home.
It’s immoral to be in a guy’s house at this ungodly hour. My subconscious screamed at me.
I was about to protest when I remembered the little girl. He gave me a piece of paper yesterday but I forgot to read it.
“Who’s she? I mean the little girl.” I asked when he pulled over.
He eyed me dangerously and I squirmed.
“Learn to mind your business Mariana.”
That hurts.
Why is he so mean sometimes?
” Are you coming?” He yelled.
I looked up to see him already out.
Someone should give me a reason why am still following this meanie. I tend to do whatever he says like a puppet.
Oh Lord, save me from this crazed dude.
I wish to see the little girl again.
He moved me and grabbed my wrists as he began to take long strides to the door.
I felt like a little school girl with the brother.
We got to a room and he stopped.
I looked around the plain room with only a a huge but tall couch then he spoke.
“Sit.”
It was more like a command.
I jumped and sat as watch him come around, he removed the band I used to hold my hair causing it fall on my face.
“What are you doing..”
Before I could finish, he pushed me on to the couch.
I thought I was going to fall but instead, something supported me.
I saw his hands above my head before he dipped it into my hair. He began to mix somethings into my hair then a water came from nowhere and wet my hair.
More of the water continued to pour on my hair and it snaked in to my shirt, soaking it.
By the time he completed, all my clothe got wet.
A towel came around my hair and dried it up along with a hand dryer. After he was done, the couch came back to normal then he began combing my hair and curling the tip at the same time.
I was still dazed so I just waited for him to complete whatever ritual he was performing on me.
When he was done, he stood in front of me and smiled proudly.
“What?”
“I’m glad. You look so much like a human now unlike before where you looked like a zombie.” He chuckled but this wasn’t really funny.
He just called me a zombie.
I got up and shoved him but he didn’t budge. “What have you done to my hair?”
“You’ll regret shoving me if you see how beautiful I made you.” He replied and took me to a huge mirror which was also in that room.
My hair was back to it original colour (Black) but that was not all, it looks beautiful and I look more like my old self but I won’t admit that.
I was more concerned by something else.
“Is this what you call an excellent job?” I pointed at my wet clothes.
” Don’t worry,I got it.” He replied with a spark in his gorgeous eyes.
He looks unusually excited.
I raised a brow.
“Strip.” The words rolled freely out of his lips.
“Huh? Have you lost it?”
“No. But it’s okay if you wanna catch a cold.” Then he began to walk away.
” Fine. Will I get something else to wear?”
He nodded and came back with a dress.
I took it and waited for him to leave but he just came to sat comfortably and began to operate on his phone.
“Could you please excuse me so I can change?”
He snorted. “Don’t flatter yourself, it’s not like I’d be looking at you.”
{That changed everything ✓}
By KELSAY (M.M.A.)
CHAPTER 19
MARIANA
“Where do you think you’re going doll face? We ain’t done yet!” He rasps, sending shivers down my spine.
” Huh? ”
” You heard me.”
I jerked away from him and without sparing a glance, I ran in the direction of Shane.
The pup wasn’t so crowded so I saw him chatting with some guys in front of the bar.
Shane doesn’t look like the party type and if anyone had told me beforehand, I would’ve gone out of my way to defend him.
So was this the place he planned on bringing me? I doubt.
I reach to where he was and turned him by the shoulder to me but surprisingly, it wasn’t him.
“Sorry.” I muttered before running out.
I stood at the entrance and craned my neck in case I could see his car leaving the driveway.
I felt someone beside while I was busy craning my neck.
“Is he gone yet?” Novan teased as he also craned his neck.
“It’s all your fault.” I accused and took a step from him.
“I’m glad.” He replied smirked. “At least you won’t get to spend time with him.”
“Enemy of progress.” I snorted.
” Really.” He laughed.
” But you guys really look alike.” I commented.
“What the hell! Don’t compare me to him.”
” Will you deny the resemblance between you and him?”
” Don’t be a fool, we’re one.”
” What do you mean?”
” Did I say something?” He asked back.
” Of course you did, what do you mean by you guys are one?”
Instead of answering, his eyes raked my body and he scoffed.
“Don’t tell me you bleached your hair all for him.”
I didn’t have Shane in mind before bleaching my hair but if that is what he’s thinking now, then why not infuriate him further.
“What if I did it to impress him?”
He scoffed once more, “you should try harder next time, you look horrible.”
What!
” And if you’re with me now, then I won’t wish to see this horrible hair. You actually look like a ghost.” He spatted and began pulling me along to the car.
I was too shock to react so I just followed.
“Where are you taking me to?” I asked when he began to speed once we got into the car.
“You ruined my boozing moment so I must as well ruined this stupid hair of yours.”
” Huh? What are you gonna do?” I shrieked.
” Cut your hair off.”
I looked at him for any trace of humor on his face but he was dead serious.
“You won’t dare Novan.” I screamed.
“Love to see me try?”
” Do you have a problem with either of us?” I asked since he was acting as if Shane and him were sworn enemies.
“No..you both are annoying.”
“That does not answer my question.”
” Do you talk like this all the time? Or you’re just being nosy?” He growl irritatingly.
I went silent and look through the window.
My hands found their way into my bag and brought out my smartphone.
I missed a call from mum,dad and a thousand from Shane.
I texted mum and dad that I was okay and that I’ll come home soon then apologise to Shane for disappointing him while promising to make it up to him.
He didn’t reply quickly so I left to chat Betsy but realized that she has not been online since 9pm. Its 11pm now, almost 12am and I wondered where he was taking me too.
I moved my gaze to him and our eyes suddenly met which revealed that he has constantly been looking at me.
I gulped and looked down to my lap. I hate how awkward and thick the air is around us.
It doesn’t suit us. Novan and I were known for our constantly bantering but today is just different.
“Can you take me home.”
It sounded more like a question.
“No!” He stated. “It’s too late, we’re already here.”
I was forced to look out of the window as he pulled in front of the familiar building called his home.
It’s immoral to be in a guy’s house at this ungodly hour. My subconscious screamed at me.
I was about to protest when I remembered the little girl. He gave me a piece of paper yesterday but I forgot to read it.
“Who’s she? I mean the little girl.” I asked when he pulled over.
He eyed me dangerously and I squirmed.
“Learn to mind your business Mariana.”
That hurts.
Why is he so mean sometimes?
” Are you coming?” He yelled.
I looked up to see him already out.
Someone should give me a reason why am still following this meanie. I tend to do whatever he says like a puppet.
Oh Lord, save me from this crazed dude.
I wish to see the little girl again.
He moved me and grabbed my wrists as he began to take long strides to the door.
I felt like a little school girl with the brother.
We got to a room and he stopped.
I looked around the plain room with only a a huge but tall couch then he spoke.
“Sit.”
It was more like a command.
I jumped and sat as watch him come around, he removed the band I used to hold my hair causing it fall on my face.
“What are you doing..”
Before I could finish, he pushed me on to the couch.
I thought I was going to fall but instead, something supported me.
I saw his hands above my head before he dipped it into my hair. He began to mix somethings into my hair then a water came from nowhere and wet my hair.
More of the water continued to pour on my hair and it snaked in to my shirt, soaking it.
By the time he completed, all my clothe got wet.
A towel came around my hair and dried it up along with a hand dryer. After he was done, the couch came back to normal then he began combing my hair and curling the tip at the same time.
I was still dazed so I just waited for him to complete whatever ritual he was performing on me.
When he was done, he stood in front of me and smiled proudly.
“What?”
“I’m glad. You look so much like a human now unlike before where you looked like a zombie.” He chuckled but this wasn’t really funny.
He just called me a zombie.
I got up and shoved him but he didn’t budge. “What have you done to my hair?”
“You’ll regret shoving me if you see how beautiful I made you.” He replied and took me to a huge mirror which was also in that room.
My hair was back to it original colour (Black) but that was not all, it looks beautiful and I look more like my old self but I won’t admit that.
I was more concerned by something else.
“Is this what you call an excellent job?” I pointed at my wet clothes.
” Don’t worry,I got it.” He replied with a spark in his gorgeous eyes.
He looks unusually excited.
I raised a brow.
“Strip.” The words rolled freely out of his lips.
“Huh? Have you lost it?”
“No. But it’s okay if you wanna catch a cold.” Then he began to walk away.
” Fine. Will I get something else to wear?”
He nodded and came back with a dress.
I took it and waited for him to leave but he just came to sat comfortably and began to operate on his phone.
“Could you please excuse me so I can change?”
He snorted. “Don’t flatter yourself, it’s not like I’d be looking at you.”
°
°°°°°°°°
THE KISS
{That changed everything ✓}
By KELSAY (M.M.A.)
CHAPTER 19
MARIANA
“Where do you think you’re going doll face? We ain’t done yet!” He rasps, sending shivers down my spine.
” Huh? ”
” You heard me.”
I jerked away from him and without sparing a glance, I ran in the direction of Shane.
The pup wasn’t so crowded so I saw him chatting with some guys in front of the bar.
Shane doesn’t look like the party type and if anyone had told me beforehand, I would’ve gone out of my way to defend him.
So was this the place he planned on bringing me? I doubt.
I reach to where he was and turned him by the shoulder to me but surprisingly, it wasn’t him.
“Sorry.” I muttered before running out.
I stood at the entrance and craned my neck in case I could see his car leaving the driveway.
I felt someone beside while I was busy craning my neck.
“Is he gone yet?” Novan teased as he also craned his neck.
“It’s all your fault.” I accused and took a step from him.
“I’m glad.” He replied smirked. “At least you won’t get to spend time with him.”
“Enemy of progress.” I snorted.
” Really.” He laughed.
” But you guys really look alike.” I commented.
“What the hell! Don’t compare me to him.”
” Will you deny the resemblance between you and him?”
” Don’t be a fool, we’re one.”
” What do you mean?”
” Did I say something?” He asked back.
” Of course you did, what do you mean by you guys are one?”
Instead of answering, his eyes raked my body and he scoffed.
“Don’t tell me you bleached your hair all for him.”
I didn’t have Shane in mind before bleaching my hair but if that is what he’s thinking now, then why not infuriate him further.
“What if I did it to impress him?”
He scoffed once more, “you should try harder next time, you look horrible.”
What!
” And if you’re with me now, then I won’t wish to see this horrible hair. You actually look like a ghost.” He spatted and began pulling me along to the car.
I was too shock to react so I just followed.
“Where are you taking me to?” I asked when he began to speed once we got into the car.
“You ruined my boozing moment so I must as well ruined this stupid hair of yours.”
” Huh? What are you gonna do?” I shrieked.
” Cut your hair off.”
I looked at him for any trace of humor on his face but he was dead serious.
“You won’t dare Novan.” I screamed.
“Love to see me try?”
” Do you have a problem with either of us?” I asked since he was acting as if Shane and him were sworn enemies.
“No..you both are annoying.”
“That does not answer my question.”
” Do you talk like this all the time? Or you’re just being nosy?” He growl irritatingly.
I went silent and look through the window.
My hands found their way into my bag and brought out my smartphone.
I missed a call from mum,dad and a thousand from Shane.
I texted mum and dad that I was okay and that I’ll come home soon then apologise to Shane for disappointing him while promising to make it up to him.
He didn’t reply quickly so I left to chat Betsy but realized that she has not been online since 9pm. Its 11pm now, almost 12am and I wondered where he was taking me too.
I moved my gaze to him and our eyes suddenly met which revealed that he has constantly been looking at me.
I gulped and looked down to my lap. I hate how awkward and thick the air is around us.
It doesn’t suit us. Novan and I were known for our constantly bantering but today is just different.
“Can you take me home.”
It sounded more like a question.
“No!” He stated. “It’s too late, we’re already here.”
I was forced to look out of the window as he pulled in front of the familiar building called his home.
It’s immoral to be in a guy’s house at this ungodly hour. My subconscious screamed at me.
I was about to protest when I remembered the little girl. He gave me a piece of paper yesterday but I forgot to read it.
“Who’s she? I mean the little girl.” I asked when he pulled over.
He eyed me dangerously and I squirmed.
“Learn to mind your business Mariana.”
That hurts.
Why is he so mean sometimes?
” Are you coming?” He yelled.
I looked up to see him already out.
Someone should give me a reason why am still following this meanie. I tend to do whatever he says like a puppet.
Oh Lord, save me from this crazed dude.
I wish to see the little girl again.
He moved me and grabbed my wrists as he began to take long strides to the door.
I felt like a little school girl with the brother.
We got to a room and he stopped.
I looked around the plain room with only a a huge but tall couch then he spoke.
“Sit.”
It was more like a command.
I jumped and sat as watch him come around, he removed the band I used to hold my hair causing it fall on my face.
“What are you doing..”
Before I could finish, he pushed me on to the couch.
I thought I was going to fall but instead, something supported me.
I saw his hands above my head before he dipped it into my hair. He began to mix somethings into my hair then a water came from nowhere and wet my hair.
More of the water continued to pour on my hair and it snaked in to my shirt, soaking it.
By the time he completed, all my clothe got wet.
A towel came around my hair and dried it up along with a hand dryer. After he was done, the couch came back to normal then he began combing my hair and curling the tip at the same time.
I was still dazed so I just waited for him to complete whatever ritual he was performing on me.
When he was done, he stood in front of me and smiled proudly.
“What?”
“I’m glad. You look so much like a human now unlike before where you looked like a zombie.” He chuckled but this wasn’t really funny.
He just called me a zombie.
I got up and shoved him but he didn’t budge. “What have you done to my hair?”
“You’ll regret shoving me if you see how beautiful I made you.” He replied and took me to a huge mirror which was also in that room.
My hair was back to it original colour (Black) but that was not all, it looks beautiful and I look more like my old self but I won’t admit that.
I was more concerned by something else.
“Is this what you call an excellent job?” I pointed at my wet clothes.
” Don’t worry,I got it.” He replied with a spark in his gorgeous eyes.
He looks unusually excited.
I raised a brow.
“Strip.” The words rolled freely out of his lips.
“Huh? Have you lost it?”
“No. But it’s okay if you wanna catch a cold.” Then he began to walk away.
” Fine. Will I get something else to wear?”
He nodded and came back with a dress.
I took it and waited for him to leave but he just came to sat comfortably and began to operate on his phone.
“Could you please excuse me so I can change?”
He snorted. “Don’t flatter yourself, it’s not like I’d be looking at you.”
{That changed everything ✓}
By KELSAY (M.M.A.)
CHAPTER 19
MARIANA
“Where do you think you’re going doll face? We ain’t done yet!” He rasps, sending shivers down my spine.
” Huh? ”
” You heard me.”
I jerked away from him and without sparing a glance, I ran in the direction of Shane.
The pup wasn’t so crowded so I saw him chatting with some guys in front of the bar.
Shane doesn’t look like the party type and if anyone had told me beforehand, I would’ve gone out of my way to defend him.
So was this the place he planned on bringing me? I doubt.
I reach to where he was and turned him by the shoulder to me but surprisingly, it wasn’t him.
“Sorry.” I muttered before running out.
I stood at the entrance and craned my neck in case I could see his car leaving the driveway.
I felt someone beside while I was busy craning my neck.
“Is he gone yet?” Novan teased as he also craned his neck.
“It’s all your fault.” I accused and took a step from him.
“I’m glad.” He replied smirked. “At least you won’t get to spend time with him.”
“Enemy of progress.” I snorted.
” Really.” He laughed.
” But you guys really look alike.” I commented.
“What the hell! Don’t compare me to him.”
” Will you deny the resemblance between you and him?”
” Don’t be a fool, we’re one.”
” What do you mean?”
” Did I say something?” He asked back.
” Of course you did, what do you mean by you guys are one?”
Instead of answering, his eyes raked my body and he scoffed.
“Don’t tell me you bleached your hair all for him.”
I didn’t have Shane in mind before bleaching my hair but if that is what he’s thinking now, then why not infuriate him further.
“What if I did it to impress him?”
He scoffed once more, “you should try harder next time, you look horrible.”
What!
” And if you’re with me now, then I won’t wish to see this horrible hair. You actually look like a ghost.” He spatted and began pulling me along to the car.
I was too shock to react so I just followed.
“Where are you taking me to?” I asked when he began to speed once we got into the car.
“You ruined my boozing moment so I must as well ruined this stupid hair of yours.”
” Huh? What are you gonna do?” I shrieked.
” Cut your hair off.”
I looked at him for any trace of humor on his face but he was dead serious.
“You won’t dare Novan.” I screamed.
“Love to see me try?”
” Do you have a problem with either of us?” I asked since he was acting as if Shane and him were sworn enemies.
“No..you both are annoying.”
“That does not answer my question.”
” Do you talk like this all the time? Or you’re just being nosy?” He growl irritatingly.
I went silent and look through the window.
My hands found their way into my bag and brought out my smartphone.
I missed a call from mum,dad and a thousand from Shane.
I texted mum and dad that I was okay and that I’ll come home soon then apologise to Shane for disappointing him while promising to make it up to him.
He didn’t reply quickly so I left to chat Betsy but realized that she has not been online since 9pm. Its 11pm now, almost 12am and I wondered where he was taking me too.
I moved my gaze to him and our eyes suddenly met which revealed that he has constantly been looking at me.
I gulped and looked down to my lap. I hate how awkward and thick the air is around us.
It doesn’t suit us. Novan and I were known for our constantly bantering but today is just different.
“Can you take me home.”
It sounded more like a question.
“No!” He stated. “It’s too late, we’re already here.”
I was forced to look out of the window as he pulled in front of the familiar building called his home.
It’s immoral to be in a guy’s house at this ungodly hour. My subconscious screamed at me.
I was about to protest when I remembered the little girl. He gave me a piece of paper yesterday but I forgot to read it.
“Who’s she? I mean the little girl.” I asked when he pulled over.
He eyed me dangerously and I squirmed.
“Learn to mind your business Mariana.”
That hurts.
Why is he so mean sometimes?
” Are you coming?” He yelled.
I looked up to see him already out.
Someone should give me a reason why am still following this meanie. I tend to do whatever he says like a puppet.
Oh Lord, save me from this crazed dude.
I wish to see the little girl again.
He moved me and grabbed my wrists as he began to take long strides to the door.
I felt like a little school girl with the brother.
We got to a room and he stopped.
I looked around the plain room with only a a huge but tall couch then he spoke.
“Sit.”
It was more like a command.
I jumped and sat as watch him come around, he removed the band I used to hold my hair causing it fall on my face.
“What are you doing..”
Before I could finish, he pushed me on to the couch.
I thought I was going to fall but instead, something supported me.
I saw his hands above my head before he dipped it into my hair. He began to mix somethings into my hair then a water came from nowhere and wet my hair.
More of the water continued to pour on my hair and it snaked in to my shirt, soaking it.
By the time he completed, all my clothe got wet.
A towel came around my hair and dried it up along with a hand dryer. After he was done, the couch came back to normal then he began combing my hair and curling the tip at the same time.
I was still dazed so I just waited for him to complete whatever ritual he was performing on me.
When he was done, he stood in front of me and smiled proudly.
“What?”
“I’m glad. You look so much like a human now unlike before where you looked like a zombie.” He chuckled but this wasn’t really funny.
He just called me a zombie.
I got up and shoved him but he didn’t budge. “What have you done to my hair?”
“You’ll regret shoving me if you see how beautiful I made you.” He replied and took me to a huge mirror which was also in that room.
My hair was back to it original colour (Black) but that was not all, it looks beautiful and I look more like my old self but I won’t admit that.
I was more concerned by something else.
“Is this what you call an excellent job?” I pointed at my wet clothes.
” Don’t worry,I got it.” He replied with a spark in his gorgeous eyes.
He looks unusually excited.
I raised a brow.
“Strip.” The words rolled freely out of his lips.
“Huh? Have you lost it?”
“No. But it’s okay if you wanna catch a cold.” Then he began to walk away.
” Fine. Will I get something else to wear?”
He nodded and came back with a dress.
I took it and waited for him to leave but he just came to sat comfortably and began to operate on his phone.
“Could you please excuse me so I can change?”
He snorted. “Don’t flatter yourself, it’s not like I’d be looking at you.”
°
°
°°°°°°°°
THE KISS
{That changed everything ✓}
By KELSAY (M.M.A.)
CHAPTER 20
MARIANA
“Could you please excuse me so I can change?”
He snorted. “Don’t flatter yourself, it’s not like I’d be looking at you.”
I walked out of the room without uttering a word since I didn’t know how to answer his rude remark.
Maybe he’s straight that’s why he said that or either am unattractive.
I didn’t get far before I heard him following me. “Where are you going?”
“Somewhere I can change.” I replied and kept walking.
“Why didn’t you change back there?”
” You gonna look.”
” I told you I don’t care if you change. I was not gonna look anyway.”
” Is that so? Why should I believe you?”
” Because you’re not my type of girl I’d love to look at..”
I stopped in my tracks as my head snapped to him.
I pang of pain hit my chest and down to my tummy.
“What.. did.. you.. say?” I asked slowly, too slowly as my eyes water.
I still don’t know why I’m getting emotional over this.
Novan has said a lot of hurtful words to me but none has ever affected me as this.
I know he’s a bad boy and has probably mess around with a lot of girls and most of them will be prettier than me but what was the need to compare me to them?
Am I really that bad looking?
“Riana, I didn’t mean it that…”
“Don’t.” I stopped him and wiped a tear.
I tried to ignore the flutter I got in my tummy when he called me Riana despite my mood.
It’s feels so nice coming out of his mouth and the fact that he was the first person calling me that really stirred a strange feeling in me.
You know, he calls me doll face when we’re arguing, call Mariana when he’s angry and now he called me..Riana and I think he said it out of concern. Maybe.
Riana! How cute.
I could never think of any proper pet name than this…
I mentally knock my head for thinking about it. Since when did I start bothering about the names he call me?
I really don’t know why am getting emotional about this. Why does it hurt so much to know that am not his type of girl?
I turned to see a door facing me , with the dress he gave me clutching tightly in my left hand, I looked back to Novan who was walking towards me and turned the knob.
“Don’t! Stop right there Ria..”
I guess it was too late because once I stepped down from the door, I landed in a cold water. Very cold.
It was a pool. I went deep deep.
I’m a good swimmer but falling into this pool unplanned got me sinking .
I heard a splash and soon, I felt strong arms pull me to the surface.
I started breathing normally as he held me by the waist. I was exhausted so I wrapped my hands around his neck and rested my head on his chest.
I’ve never placed my head on anyone’s chest apart from dad which made what I was feeling now so new to me.
It felt like..like.. home.
“Are you alright?”
I jerked from him when I heard his voice and instantly, what he said earlier replayed in my head.
“Am alright, you didn’t have to do this.” I whispered and swam out of the pool.
I realized that the dress he gave me is also wet but not with me. Probably in the water I guess.
I was wet so wet straight from my head to my Snickers.
I felt a movement beside me and turned to see Novan.
I couldn’t help but stare at him. He looked like a fallen angel. His black shirt clung to him like a second skin, showing his full abs and muscles. He’s so muscular, I can’t stop looking.
He cleared his throat and I looked away in embarrassment.
“You have to change.” He said.
I rolled my eyes and took a step from him, before I know it, I was walking out of his compound and down on the road in my wet clothes.
I reached for my phone but realized that my bag was not with me.
I groan when I remembered that I took it off when he was making my hair.
I have no choice but to jog back to his house for it.
I got to his compound and I wasn’t surprised when I saw him standing beside the door with my purse in hand.
I tried snatching it from him but instead, he pulled me back into the room.
“I knew you’d come back for your bag but what of you? I guess you have no idea that you won’t be leaving again until tomorrow because it’s 12am.”
” You’re joking right?” I huffed.
“Maybe.” He muttered and clicked the door shut.
” You’re not abducting me are you?”
” I have no reason to, if not I wouldn’t mind doing just that in a heartbeat.”
” And what reason will that be for you to abduct me?” I asked curiously .
” When we fall in love.” He smiled and added.”But that will never happen because you don’t love me and we’re poles apart.”
He took a step closer and pointed between him and I “You and I can never be.”
Our eyes locked for a while. ” Why do you say so?”
“Why do you want to know? So you can fall in love with me and make me fall as well? Come on, Riana. That will never happen.”
I gasped.
” You’re a jerk and i can’t think of being your girlfriend. Never in my wildest dreams.”
” Yh yh.. that explains it. So it’s settled.” He said with something I saw as a sad gleam in his eyes.
We went silent.
” This house is big enough for you to stay. I don’t mind sharing. And am sorry about what I said earlier I didn’t mean it.” He said and ran a hand through his wet hair
Is he seriously apologizing?
Novan has never apologized to me before.
If I hadn’t seen his seriousness, then I wouldn’t have believed his apology.
Instead of saying something, I nodded.
“So can you stay over? You can go home tomorrow.”
” Huh?” My eyes widened
He did the most cutest thing I ever saw him do. His small eyes rolled.
“Oh come on, it’s not like your first time sleeping over at a guy’s house now is it?”
” The first was an accident.” I retorted.
” Call it whatever you want but the fact is, you stayed.” He emphasized on the last word.
“Fine, I won’t argue further with this ”
” Thanks so much for that..” he chuckled and headed back inside.
I followed him because I wanted to know why he’d allow me to stay at his house.
“Why do you want me to stay? Is it because you have some motive?” I asked hurriedly behind him.
He stopped and turned to me abruptly and I almost walked into him.
“Don’t make me repeat something I apologized for saying a while ago.” He slurred and turn on his heels.
“Huh? You never meant it?”
“What did you expect, silly girl.”
Hmm…so am really not his type?
” You’re mean!”
“I thought you knew.”
“And I thought you changed but..”
” You guess wrong.” He concluded it for me and entered a room.
” Here, wear it and don’t complain but you still can complain if you’ll love to spend the night in those wet clothes.” He threw the clothes to me.
” Thanks but you still have to excuse me.”
” Who said I won’t? Of course I don’t wanna see that pathetic face you made earlier which ended in a pool. I just wander what you’ll end up in when I refuse to give you some space.” He rushed and was out of the room.
I chuckled. He talk so much but I guess he doesn’t notice.
I went to close the door but saw him standing there.
“Aren’t you leaving like you said?” I questioned and watch his face contort.
“I did. Can’t you see? I can’t believe am forced to stay outside my own room. But am not gonna take any step more.. change or leave it. Not my loss.”
His room? Curious to check the room out, I went back in.
I was disappointed when I didn’t see what I expected.
I expected to see his clothes scattered and his bed un-made but I saw the opposite. His room was neat and organized.
I walked to the washroom, locked it before removing my wet clothes including my pant.
I took a towel and dried my hair then took the clothes he gave me. It was just a simple silky dress and can be worn as a nightie.
I sniffed it first to confirm if it has been used. It smelled fresh and new. I wonder why he have females clothes around.
I threw it over my head and pulled it down.
I hid my pant into my wet clothes.
I was ready to go but I can’t help thinking about the fact that I was wearing just a dress with nothing under it.
I turned the knob and walked to the bedroom with the intention of taking something else from his wardrobe like his knicker or something.
I gasped when I saw him in the middle of the room in just his boxers.
I quickly turned my back to him.
“What are doing in here? I thought you agreed to excuse me.”
” You were taking forever. What could I have done?”
” Well am not done,so can you leave?”
” Not happening, I’ve tolerated enough.”
” Fine.” I yawned. I’m tired of arguing with him all the time.
I promise not to say another word to him till tomorrow.
I ignored his tattooed broad back and walked to his bed and laid down, covering my body with the duvet especially my down there.
“Hey! Get up, you can’t sleep in my bed.”
“Shut up, it’s not like I enjoy being in your bed!” I bellowed.
” Don’t shout at me young lady.”
I wish I won’t have to respond this one but I can’t help it.
“I will if you stop being rude to me.”
“Me? rude? I never was, you are. You keep shouting unnecessarily” He accused.
” You’re responsible Novan. Am not always like this, you bring the worst in me.”
” I do?”
I ignored him and covered my head with the duvet.
This is the second time am sleeping over at a guy’s house and I haven’t informed mom. She’s going to be worried and…
I was suddenly lifted off the bed and within a minute, I was lying in a couch. I clasped my leg tightly.
I removed the duvet and yelled. “What the heck?”
“You won’t sleep in my bed.”
I got up and began to walk out with the duvet wrapped around my waist.
I’ll just get another room and sleep in a bed. Am sure there will be more than one room.
“Where are you going with my duvet around your ass? You could’ve just asked for some panties, I won’t deny will I ?”
Is he seriously asking me that? Why must he be so straight forward.
Oh God, he knows that am wearing no pant. My face wet red.
I didn’t answer but continue to walk.
“Where to?” He asked again while walking to me.
“Going to get another room.”
“Okay.” He said and I heard him retreating.
I got to a door and about to open when he called again.
“You can have my bed.” He offered.
Why the sudden change of mind?
“No thanks.”
” Don’t be difficult now.” He whined.
“Why are you so desperate?”
He scoffed. ” I know just how nosy you can be.”
“Ohh…I see. Mr Donovan Anderson, can I say that my presence is actually a threat to the tons of skeleton in your cupboard which is hidden somewhere in this house?” I batted my lashes at him in amusement but I followed him anyway.
We ended up on the same bed but with pillows serving as a bridge between us.
I turned my phone off after telling everyone that I was okay and spent another hour thinking of the boy sleeping next to me.
***
I felt something tickling my face and tried to ignore it but it never stopped so I woke up.
I looked to my side and saw a little girl beside me. I looked at the other side but Novan was not there.
It was the same girl I saw the other time.
“Hey.” I squeaks and she covered my mouth.
“He’s in the bathroom and would come anytime soon.” She whispered.
“So what are you doing here?” I whispered back.
” I want to know why you didn’t come see me when I asked you to.”
” I’m sorry but why did you want to see me? I thought he said you shouldn’t…”
” Yes, I know but you’re cute and I just wanted a friend to talk to.”
” Why would you befriend someone who’s older than you?”
” Because you’re my brother’s girlfriend don’t you get it?”
” Huh? It’s not like that.”
” Don’t deny it. Why would you sleep in his bed if he’s not your boyfriend?”
There was no point explaining things to this little girl so I pinched her cheeks.
“You’re still young, don’t talk about those things and please don’t creep on me like that else am gonna kidnap you. ”
” Why would you kidnap me?” She asked.
” For creeping on me for one then two, you’re pretty.”
” What are you waiting for then? I’m tired of being kept here all day. I need a change of environment.”
” Aww…but I can’t do that.”
” Yh..I guess am stacked with him.” She replied sadly.
Did she really think I’ll take her away?
“Hey don’t be sad okay? I promise to come over often to see you… ”
It came out of my mouth before I could stop myself.
Seeing her means I have to deal with Novan constantly.
“Not..”
She hugged me and said a lot of thank you(s) before rolling out of the bed.
“What’s your name?”
“Nervisa.” She said and run out.
Nervisa..such a cute name.
As if on cue, the bathroom door opened.
I wasn’t ready to deal with him so I shut my eyes and pretended to be sleeping.
“Get your lazy bones out of my bed.” He spoke.
I ignored him. Is there no nice words in his dictionary?
“I know you ain’t sleeping so quit pretending unless you want a good morning kiss.”
I know he won’t do that.
” Don’t dare me doll face.”
Doll face…how I miss hearing him call me that.
“Okay, fine. Am sure it’s a kiss you want so I’ll grant it since am really not that stingy.”
Just then I felt his breath fanning my face.
What?
I jolted, threw the duvet somewhere and sat upright. I wished I didn’t do that because my face came close to his pouted lips.
He was wearing a gray hoodie with a cup of coffee in hand and his hair was wild.
“Don’t.” I pulled my face back.
“Oh please, allow me to have my morning kiss.”
°
°°°°°°°
{That changed everything ✓}
By KELSAY (M.M.A.)
CHAPTER 20
MARIANA
“Could you please excuse me so I can change?”
He snorted. “Don’t flatter yourself, it’s not like I’d be looking at you.”
I walked out of the room without uttering a word since I didn’t know how to answer his rude remark.
Maybe he’s straight that’s why he said that or either am unattractive.
I didn’t get far before I heard him following me. “Where are you going?”
“Somewhere I can change.” I replied and kept walking.
“Why didn’t you change back there?”
” You gonna look.”
” I told you I don’t care if you change. I was not gonna look anyway.”
” Is that so? Why should I believe you?”
” Because you’re not my type of girl I’d love to look at..”
I stopped in my tracks as my head snapped to him.
I pang of pain hit my chest and down to my tummy.
“What.. did.. you.. say?” I asked slowly, too slowly as my eyes water.
I still don’t know why I’m getting emotional over this.
Novan has said a lot of hurtful words to me but none has ever affected me as this.
I know he’s a bad boy and has probably mess around with a lot of girls and most of them will be prettier than me but what was the need to compare me to them?
Am I really that bad looking?
“Riana, I didn’t mean it that…”
“Don’t.” I stopped him and wiped a tear.
I tried to ignore the flutter I got in my tummy when he called me Riana despite my mood.
It’s feels so nice coming out of his mouth and the fact that he was the first person calling me that really stirred a strange feeling in me.
You know, he calls me doll face when we’re arguing, call Mariana when he’s angry and now he called me..Riana and I think he said it out of concern. Maybe.
Riana! How cute.
I could never think of any proper pet name than this…
I mentally knock my head for thinking about it. Since when did I start bothering about the names he call me?
I really don’t know why am getting emotional about this. Why does it hurt so much to know that am not his type of girl?
I turned to see a door facing me , with the dress he gave me clutching tightly in my left hand, I looked back to Novan who was walking towards me and turned the knob.
“Don’t! Stop right there Ria..”
I guess it was too late because once I stepped down from the door, I landed in a cold water. Very cold.
It was a pool. I went deep deep.
I’m a good swimmer but falling into this pool unplanned got me sinking .
I heard a splash and soon, I felt strong arms pull me to the surface.
I started breathing normally as he held me by the waist. I was exhausted so I wrapped my hands around his neck and rested my head on his chest.
I’ve never placed my head on anyone’s chest apart from dad which made what I was feeling now so new to me.
It felt like..like.. home.
“Are you alright?”
I jerked from him when I heard his voice and instantly, what he said earlier replayed in my head.
“Am alright, you didn’t have to do this.” I whispered and swam out of the pool.
I realized that the dress he gave me is also wet but not with me. Probably in the water I guess.
I was wet so wet straight from my head to my Snickers.
I felt a movement beside me and turned to see Novan.
I couldn’t help but stare at him. He looked like a fallen angel. His black shirt clung to him like a second skin, showing his full abs and muscles. He’s so muscular, I can’t stop looking.
He cleared his throat and I looked away in embarrassment.
“You have to change.” He said.
I rolled my eyes and took a step from him, before I know it, I was walking out of his compound and down on the road in my wet clothes.
I reached for my phone but realized that my bag was not with me.
I groan when I remembered that I took it off when he was making my hair.
I have no choice but to jog back to his house for it.
I got to his compound and I wasn’t surprised when I saw him standing beside the door with my purse in hand.
I tried snatching it from him but instead, he pulled me back into the room.
“I knew you’d come back for your bag but what of you? I guess you have no idea that you won’t be leaving again until tomorrow because it’s 12am.”
” You’re joking right?” I huffed.
“Maybe.” He muttered and clicked the door shut.
” You’re not abducting me are you?”
” I have no reason to, if not I wouldn’t mind doing just that in a heartbeat.”
” And what reason will that be for you to abduct me?” I asked curiously .
” When we fall in love.” He smiled and added.”But that will never happen because you don’t love me and we’re poles apart.”
He took a step closer and pointed between him and I “You and I can never be.”
Our eyes locked for a while. ” Why do you say so?”
“Why do you want to know? So you can fall in love with me and make me fall as well? Come on, Riana. That will never happen.”
I gasped.
” You’re a jerk and i can’t think of being your girlfriend. Never in my wildest dreams.”
” Yh yh.. that explains it. So it’s settled.” He said with something I saw as a sad gleam in his eyes.
We went silent.
” This house is big enough for you to stay. I don’t mind sharing. And am sorry about what I said earlier I didn’t mean it.” He said and ran a hand through his wet hair
Is he seriously apologizing?
Novan has never apologized to me before.
If I hadn’t seen his seriousness, then I wouldn’t have believed his apology.
Instead of saying something, I nodded.
“So can you stay over? You can go home tomorrow.”
” Huh?” My eyes widened
He did the most cutest thing I ever saw him do. His small eyes rolled.
“Oh come on, it’s not like your first time sleeping over at a guy’s house now is it?”
” The first was an accident.” I retorted.
” Call it whatever you want but the fact is, you stayed.” He emphasized on the last word.
“Fine, I won’t argue further with this ”
” Thanks so much for that..” he chuckled and headed back inside.
I followed him because I wanted to know why he’d allow me to stay at his house.
“Why do you want me to stay? Is it because you have some motive?” I asked hurriedly behind him.
He stopped and turned to me abruptly and I almost walked into him.
“Don’t make me repeat something I apologized for saying a while ago.” He slurred and turn on his heels.
“Huh? You never meant it?”
“What did you expect, silly girl.”
Hmm…so am really not his type?
” You’re mean!”
“I thought you knew.”
“And I thought you changed but..”
” You guess wrong.” He concluded it for me and entered a room.
” Here, wear it and don’t complain but you still can complain if you’ll love to spend the night in those wet clothes.” He threw the clothes to me.
” Thanks but you still have to excuse me.”
” Who said I won’t? Of course I don’t wanna see that pathetic face you made earlier which ended in a pool. I just wander what you’ll end up in when I refuse to give you some space.” He rushed and was out of the room.
I chuckled. He talk so much but I guess he doesn’t notice.
I went to close the door but saw him standing there.
“Aren’t you leaving like you said?” I questioned and watch his face contort.
“I did. Can’t you see? I can’t believe am forced to stay outside my own room. But am not gonna take any step more.. change or leave it. Not my loss.”
His room? Curious to check the room out, I went back in.
I was disappointed when I didn’t see what I expected.
I expected to see his clothes scattered and his bed un-made but I saw the opposite. His room was neat and organized.
I walked to the washroom, locked it before removing my wet clothes including my pant.
I took a towel and dried my hair then took the clothes he gave me. It was just a simple silky dress and can be worn as a nightie.
I sniffed it first to confirm if it has been used. It smelled fresh and new. I wonder why he have females clothes around.
I threw it over my head and pulled it down.
I hid my pant into my wet clothes.
I was ready to go but I can’t help thinking about the fact that I was wearing just a dress with nothing under it.
I turned the knob and walked to the bedroom with the intention of taking something else from his wardrobe like his knicker or something.
I gasped when I saw him in the middle of the room in just his boxers.
I quickly turned my back to him.
“What are doing in here? I thought you agreed to excuse me.”
” You were taking forever. What could I have done?”
” Well am not done,so can you leave?”
” Not happening, I’ve tolerated enough.”
” Fine.” I yawned. I’m tired of arguing with him all the time.
I promise not to say another word to him till tomorrow.
I ignored his tattooed broad back and walked to his bed and laid down, covering my body with the duvet especially my down there.
“Hey! Get up, you can’t sleep in my bed.”
“Shut up, it’s not like I enjoy being in your bed!” I bellowed.
” Don’t shout at me young lady.”
I wish I won’t have to respond this one but I can’t help it.
“I will if you stop being rude to me.”
“Me? rude? I never was, you are. You keep shouting unnecessarily” He accused.
” You’re responsible Novan. Am not always like this, you bring the worst in me.”
” I do?”
I ignored him and covered my head with the duvet.
This is the second time am sleeping over at a guy’s house and I haven’t informed mom. She’s going to be worried and…
I was suddenly lifted off the bed and within a minute, I was lying in a couch. I clasped my leg tightly.
I removed the duvet and yelled. “What the heck?”
“You won’t sleep in my bed.”
I got up and began to walk out with the duvet wrapped around my waist.
I’ll just get another room and sleep in a bed. Am sure there will be more than one room.
“Where are you going with my duvet around your ass? You could’ve just asked for some panties, I won’t deny will I ?”
Is he seriously asking me that? Why must he be so straight forward.
Oh God, he knows that am wearing no pant. My face wet red.
I didn’t answer but continue to walk.
“Where to?” He asked again while walking to me.
“Going to get another room.”
“Okay.” He said and I heard him retreating.
I got to a door and about to open when he called again.
“You can have my bed.” He offered.
Why the sudden change of mind?
“No thanks.”
” Don’t be difficult now.” He whined.
“Why are you so desperate?”
He scoffed. ” I know just how nosy you can be.”
“Ohh…I see. Mr Donovan Anderson, can I say that my presence is actually a threat to the tons of skeleton in your cupboard which is hidden somewhere in this house?” I batted my lashes at him in amusement but I followed him anyway.
We ended up on the same bed but with pillows serving as a bridge between us.
I turned my phone off after telling everyone that I was okay and spent another hour thinking of the boy sleeping next to me.
***
I felt something tickling my face and tried to ignore it but it never stopped so I woke up.
I looked to my side and saw a little girl beside me. I looked at the other side but Novan was not there.
It was the same girl I saw the other time.
“Hey.” I squeaks and she covered my mouth.
“He’s in the bathroom and would come anytime soon.” She whispered.
“So what are you doing here?” I whispered back.
” I want to know why you didn’t come see me when I asked you to.”
” I’m sorry but why did you want to see me? I thought he said you shouldn’t…”
” Yes, I know but you’re cute and I just wanted a friend to talk to.”
” Why would you befriend someone who’s older than you?”
” Because you’re my brother’s girlfriend don’t you get it?”
” Huh? It’s not like that.”
” Don’t deny it. Why would you sleep in his bed if he’s not your boyfriend?”
There was no point explaining things to this little girl so I pinched her cheeks.
“You’re still young, don’t talk about those things and please don’t creep on me like that else am gonna kidnap you. ”
” Why would you kidnap me?” She asked.
” For creeping on me for one then two, you’re pretty.”
” What are you waiting for then? I’m tired of being kept here all day. I need a change of environment.”
” Aww…but I can’t do that.”
” Yh..I guess am stacked with him.” She replied sadly.
Did she really think I’ll take her away?
“Hey don’t be sad okay? I promise to come over often to see you… ”
It came out of my mouth before I could stop myself.
Seeing her means I have to deal with Novan constantly.
“Not..”
She hugged me and said a lot of thank you(s) before rolling out of the bed.
“What’s your name?”
“Nervisa.” She said and run out.
Nervisa..such a cute name.
As if on cue, the bathroom door opened.
I wasn’t ready to deal with him so I shut my eyes and pretended to be sleeping.
“Get your lazy bones out of my bed.” He spoke.
I ignored him. Is there no nice words in his dictionary?
“I know you ain’t sleeping so quit pretending unless you want a good morning kiss.”
I know he won’t do that.
” Don’t dare me doll face.”
Doll face…how I miss hearing him call me that.
“Okay, fine. Am sure it’s a kiss you want so I’ll grant it since am really not that stingy.”
Just then I felt his breath fanning my face.
What?
I jolted, threw the duvet somewhere and sat upright. I wished I didn’t do that because my face came close to his pouted lips.
He was wearing a gray hoodie with a cup of coffee in hand and his hair was wild.
“Don’t.” I pulled my face back.
“Oh please, allow me to have my morning kiss.”
°
°°°°°°°
THE KISS
{That changed everything ✓}
By KELSAY (M.M.A.)
CHAPTER 21
MARIANA
“Oh please, allow me to have my morning kiss.”
” You won’t do that. ” I pushed him back and got out of the bed.
He laughed and went to sit in the couch.
“Who would like to kiss a stinking mouth anyway?”
Oh Lord!
I rushed to the bathroom and was surprised to see, a new brush, pant, towel and a new dress. Well he got everything I’ll be needing.
Wow, he’s not bad after all. Novan is somehow nice but why does he chose to always be jerk?
I brushed my teeth, took my bath and changed into the beautiful dress.
I brushed my hair and held it high before coming out. I looked stunning and I can’t believe is all because of Novan.
I began to look look for my previous clothes but I didn’t see it.
“Where are my clothes Novan?”
“I discarded them.” He answered and scrunched him nose up. ” I think they stink as well.”
“Would you stop it please.” I pleaded.
“Alright Riana.”
I could sense a hint of mockery in his voice.
I slipped my shoes on and went for my bag.
“Thanks, I’ll be going.”
“Alright, but not with those boots. It looks horrible.”
” Would you stop being rude for once? You could’ve said that nicely. You know what, I’ve had enough of you. Don’t come anywhere near me again got it?” I yelled angrily.
“Whoa! Keep your voice down Doll face. I didn’t mean it that way” He placed his cup down and got on his feet.
” You always say that but you actually mean everything.”
“Alright fine, fine, am sorry. I think I went overboard.”
” If you’re sorry then can we quit all this baseless argument we’ve been having and become friends? Let’s do away with the frenemy.”
He scratched his head and ran his tongue ring on his lips.
“I’ll think about it.” He said in a shy voice and bit his fingernails.
Here goes nothing…now he’s acting like he is a girl who’s being proposed to.
“You know, I was actually not expecting you to say this but I can’t deny that I’ve been crushing on you…”
I elbowed him in the stomach.
” Ouch.” His hands flew to his tummy. “I’ve not accepted your proposal yet but you’ve started treating me bad already.”
I glared at him and made an attempt to hit him again but he swerved and run out.
I followed him and he began to laugh. I join in the laughter till we got to the parking lot.
Novan can really be funny and act childish sometimes. How crazy!
“Seriously.” I said breathlessly.
“What was that for?”
“Was just joking.”
“Yeah, I know but let be serious for now. Can we be friends.?”
He made a thoughtful face. ” Will you promise not to shout or annoy me again?”
“I promise though i know i don’t annoy you like you’re saying”
” I also knew you wouldn’t accept it. Anyway, do you promise to stop prying into my private life?”
” What friend will it make me if I’m not concern with your life? Anyway, I promise.”
He smiled the most enchanting smile ever and stretched his hand.
“I agree, let’s be friends.”
I placed my palm into his.”Friends.”
” Great, now I won’t have to bicker with you all the time.” He murmured and laughed.
I just stared at his face. He looked more attractive when he smiles or laugh.
“Stop staring at me.” He said and let go of my hand.
“Yeah, sorry.” I admitted and blinked.
“Why were you staring?”
“You should laugh more often. It’s cute.”
He grinned at me instead of passing a rude comment.
***
“Do you live alone?” I asked while he was going to drop me.
” Yes.”
I wanted to ask of Nervisa but decided against it.
” Where do they live? I mean your parents”
” Somewhere. I don’t know and please don’t ask anymore questions concerning my parents” He replied uncomfortably with a deep frown.
I haven’t even asked anything yet.
I nodded in agreement. I wouldn’t like to piss him off.
I wonder why his face changed when I mentioned his parents but I know that whatever it was, it won’t be a good thing.
I went silent as I recall all that transpired between Novan and I.
” Hey, so how did you know that I spent the night at Shane’s?” I asked after remembering what he said last night about me spending the night.
“I just said this was not your first time but I didn’t mention whom you slept with .”
He’s right? He didn’t mention anyone’s name.
“Thanks for letting me know, I never thought it was him.” He grinned.
” But how did you still get to know that Ispent the night at his place?”
” I saw your car in his compound the day you had an accident but I wasn’t sure until now…”.”
“Wait, how did you know that I had an accident?”
“I’m not blind doll face. Your damaged car was parked in his compound then I saw you with bandage around your head. Is that not ”
” How did you know that that was my car in Shane’s compound and how did you know Shane? Are you guys related or something?”
He signed and eyed me before looking back at the road.
” I’m tired, am not gonna answer your questions again.”
” You’re tired?”
” Yes.”
” Does talking make you tired?”
” Yeah but not all, a particular one does that.”
” Which is?”
” Is it not obvious?” He asked back and glared at me softly.
“You mean when I talk it gets you tired? I don’t understand.”
” Here we go again. You’re the most clueless girl I’ve ever met. I get tired explaining the obvious to you but I think that is what makes you cute.” He poke my cheeks lightly in a playful manner and smiled.
My hands flew to my cheeks, am sure they’ve turned red like a tomato. This is the loveliest thing he ever did but the most childish.
I can’t imagine a playful Novan. Such fun it’ll be watching him.
But he confuses me.
One moment he’s saying am ugly the next he says am cute and now he said am clueless but didn’t want me to feel bad so he said it makes me cute.
” But I’ll tell you anyway, you talk non-stop and ask questions all the time. You want every little thing to be explained and it really annoys me sometimes and I end up getting tired of explaining .”
” Well then, I can’t promise to stop but I’ll limit it”
” I didn’t expect you stop completely because i know you can’t, it’s a habit. But can you keep quiet throughout this drive? I have a lot to meditate.”
” Okay, it’s not like I want to talk to you anyway.”
I zipped my lips and gave him the imaginary key and he toss it somewhere.
He gave me a thumbs up and winked.
I bet you, my heart almost stopped beating.
{That changed everything ✓}
By KELSAY (M.M.A.)
CHAPTER 21
MARIANA
“Oh please, allow me to have my morning kiss.”
” You won’t do that. ” I pushed him back and got out of the bed.
He laughed and went to sit in the couch.
“Who would like to kiss a stinking mouth anyway?”
Oh Lord!
I rushed to the bathroom and was surprised to see, a new brush, pant, towel and a new dress. Well he got everything I’ll be needing.
Wow, he’s not bad after all. Novan is somehow nice but why does he chose to always be jerk?
I brushed my teeth, took my bath and changed into the beautiful dress.
I brushed my hair and held it high before coming out. I looked stunning and I can’t believe is all because of Novan.
I began to look look for my previous clothes but I didn’t see it.
“Where are my clothes Novan?”
“I discarded them.” He answered and scrunched him nose up. ” I think they stink as well.”
“Would you stop it please.” I pleaded.
“Alright Riana.”
I could sense a hint of mockery in his voice.
I slipped my shoes on and went for my bag.
“Thanks, I’ll be going.”
“Alright, but not with those boots. It looks horrible.”
” Would you stop being rude for once? You could’ve said that nicely. You know what, I’ve had enough of you. Don’t come anywhere near me again got it?” I yelled angrily.
“Whoa! Keep your voice down Doll face. I didn’t mean it that way” He placed his cup down and got on his feet.
” You always say that but you actually mean everything.”
“Alright fine, fine, am sorry. I think I went overboard.”
” If you’re sorry then can we quit all this baseless argument we’ve been having and become friends? Let’s do away with the frenemy.”
He scratched his head and ran his tongue ring on his lips.
“I’ll think about it.” He said in a shy voice and bit his fingernails.
Here goes nothing…now he’s acting like he is a girl who’s being proposed to.
“You know, I was actually not expecting you to say this but I can’t deny that I’ve been crushing on you…”
I elbowed him in the stomach.
” Ouch.” His hands flew to his tummy. “I’ve not accepted your proposal yet but you’ve started treating me bad already.”
I glared at him and made an attempt to hit him again but he swerved and run out.
I followed him and he began to laugh. I join in the laughter till we got to the parking lot.
Novan can really be funny and act childish sometimes. How crazy!
“Seriously.” I said breathlessly.
“What was that for?”
“Was just joking.”
“Yeah, I know but let be serious for now. Can we be friends.?”
He made a thoughtful face. ” Will you promise not to shout or annoy me again?”
“I promise though i know i don’t annoy you like you’re saying”
” I also knew you wouldn’t accept it. Anyway, do you promise to stop prying into my private life?”
” What friend will it make me if I’m not concern with your life? Anyway, I promise.”
He smiled the most enchanting smile ever and stretched his hand.
“I agree, let’s be friends.”
I placed my palm into his.”Friends.”
” Great, now I won’t have to bicker with you all the time.” He murmured and laughed.
I just stared at his face. He looked more attractive when he smiles or laugh.
“Stop staring at me.” He said and let go of my hand.
“Yeah, sorry.” I admitted and blinked.
“Why were you staring?”
“You should laugh more often. It’s cute.”
He grinned at me instead of passing a rude comment.
***
“Do you live alone?” I asked while he was going to drop me.
” Yes.”
I wanted to ask of Nervisa but decided against it.
” Where do they live? I mean your parents”
” Somewhere. I don’t know and please don’t ask anymore questions concerning my parents” He replied uncomfortably with a deep frown.
I haven’t even asked anything yet.
I nodded in agreement. I wouldn’t like to piss him off.
I wonder why his face changed when I mentioned his parents but I know that whatever it was, it won’t be a good thing.
I went silent as I recall all that transpired between Novan and I.
” Hey, so how did you know that I spent the night at Shane’s?” I asked after remembering what he said last night about me spending the night.
“I just said this was not your first time but I didn’t mention whom you slept with .”
He’s right? He didn’t mention anyone’s name.
“Thanks for letting me know, I never thought it was him.” He grinned.
” But how did you still get to know that Ispent the night at his place?”
” I saw your car in his compound the day you had an accident but I wasn’t sure until now…”.”
“Wait, how did you know that I had an accident?”
“I’m not blind doll face. Your damaged car was parked in his compound then I saw you with bandage around your head. Is that not ”
” How did you know that that was my car in Shane’s compound and how did you know Shane? Are you guys related or something?”
He signed and eyed me before looking back at the road.
” I’m tired, am not gonna answer your questions again.”
” You’re tired?”
” Yes.”
” Does talking make you tired?”
” Yeah but not all, a particular one does that.”
” Which is?”
” Is it not obvious?” He asked back and glared at me softly.
“You mean when I talk it gets you tired? I don’t understand.”
” Here we go again. You’re the most clueless girl I’ve ever met. I get tired explaining the obvious to you but I think that is what makes you cute.” He poke my cheeks lightly in a playful manner and smiled.
My hands flew to my cheeks, am sure they’ve turned red like a tomato. This is the loveliest thing he ever did but the most childish.
I can’t imagine a playful Novan. Such fun it’ll be watching him.
But he confuses me.
One moment he’s saying am ugly the next he says am cute and now he said am clueless but didn’t want me to feel bad so he said it makes me cute.
” But I’ll tell you anyway, you talk non-stop and ask questions all the time. You want every little thing to be explained and it really annoys me sometimes and I end up getting tired of explaining .”
” Well then, I can’t promise to stop but I’ll limit it”
” I didn’t expect you stop completely because i know you can’t, it’s a habit. But can you keep quiet throughout this drive? I have a lot to meditate.”
” Okay, it’s not like I want to talk to you anyway.”
I zipped my lips and gave him the imaginary key and he toss it somewhere.
He gave me a thumbs up and winked.
I bet you, my heart almost stopped beating.
°
°°°°°°
THE KISS
{That changed everything ✓}
By KELSAY (M.M.A.)
CHAPTER 22
MARIANA
I met Shane and his mum for lunch the next day which was Sunday.
And as we ate, I couldn’t help looking at the boy sitting across me.
Why must he look so much like Novan and he claims he doesn’t know him.
But I know that one of them might be lying or both.
“What?”
I startled and moved my eyes from him. I haven’t realize that I’ve been staring.
I shook my head and faked a smile, “it’s nothing, you and Novan look so much alike and I just can’t put my head around the fact that you don’t know each other.”
He smiled and looked down on his plate. ” Were you trying to find out the features we have in common?”
“Yes but you’re quite …I don’t know. I’m just baffled.” I couldn’t make out any word that could explain what I wanted to say.
” Don’t worry, I understand. It will take time for you to get used to our resemblance. Even I was shocked when I saw him with you at the pup. For a moment, I thought you actually mistake me for him.”
His mum whom I’ve forgotten to be around laughed and I joined except for Shane who looked less amused.
“Thanks for having me, your home is beautiful and I enjoyed the meal so much.” I said after the lunch.
” My pleasure dear, if I have my way, I’d invite you to come over all the time.” She beamed sweetly and I hugged her.
” I’ll be back mum.” Shane said and took hold of my wrists as we walked outside.
Luckily for me, when I got home yesterday from Novan’s house, mum and dad was still not around and that saved me from the explanation I would’ve done for staying out.
They came this afternoon but before mum and I could have a proper chat, Shane came and pick me up for lunch at his mum’s.
I was glad when he didn’t make a lot of fuss about our Saturday night.
“So how was your night with your friend or should I say my lookalike?” He asked when we got into the car.
“Horrible, I wish he wasn’t your lookalike. You know, he’s a complete jerk but things changed yesterday.”
” Really?”
” Yeah, we decided to become friends but I don’t know how long it’s going to last. The two of us just can’t stand each other.”
” Well, am glad you gave it a chance. You know, sometimes we tend to misjudge people we’re not even close to.
But once you’re close, you’ll realize that that person is actually nowhere near what you thought he or she is.”
” Yeah you’re right. ” I agreed.
Maybe Novan is really not he seems like to me.
“Would you mind if the three of us hangout this weekend?”
He cleared his throat, ” I won’t mind but I’ll be busy. You know, the exit exam.”
“Oh okay, then we’ll make it after.”
” That will be cool.”
” Which school do you attend?”
” Home school, I don’t really go out.”
I nodded. “I’m sorry but you said you don’t go out but I saw you at that pup..”
” I do go there sometimes but not regularly.”
I wanted to ask more questions but after spotting the irritation on his face, I stopped.
Maybe Novan was right, am actually annoying.
***
Soon Monday was here and just as Novan said, he comes to pick me and we go to his house or the library to revise.
On the third day which was Wednesday, he couldn’t come so I decided to go to him instead.
I drove to his house but didn’t see him around.
I waited for hours and even called his number but he wasn’t answering. I was having a spare key so I got inside and sat in the living room.
I sat on the couch with a book on my lap.
I was engrossed in it that I didn’t hear someone walk in.
“Hey.” I heard a familiar voice.
Standing in front of me is Nervisa in a maroon dress with an identity card draped around his neck. She must be from school.
“Hi Nervisa.” I placed my book down and went to her.
“How are you? I’ve been coming here but I don’t see you. I missed you.”
” Yh, I also wanted to see you but Novan had to take me somewhere all the time after school.”
” Oh I see, where do you school and where has he been taking you to?”
“Santa Maria international is my school but where we’ve been going is a secret.”
” Santa Maria? It’s a great school”
That’s where my brother also school.
” Nice.” She stated and began walking from me.
” Nice? By the way where’s he?”
“What? Is my brother not at home?”
Brother? This is Novan’s sister?
” No he’s not. I was also waiting for him.”
“Strange, he’s always in the house when I return from school but am glad he isn’t around now.” She smiled beautifully. ” I’ll be back.”
She ran upstairs and after some minutes, she returned with a backpack.
“Take me somewhere other than here please. I want to spend some time freely outside before Novan arrives.”
” What? I can’t do that.”
” Why not? It’s just for sometime, we’ll come back after an hour.”
” What if Novan comes looking for you?”
” We’ll come before he does. Please let not waste another more minute. We should get going.” She said and took my hand desperately.
It’s obvious she’s tired of being locked inside all the time.
I’ll just take him to the park for 45minutes and bring her back before Novan returns.
The expression on her face when I agreed and told her that we’ll be going to the park was indescribable.
She was extremely happy and kept jumping on the way to my car.
After fifteen minutes, we arrived at my favorite park which was not far from my home.
We got down from the car and walked in.
“Wow! Just look at that? How I missed all this! You’re really sweet Ariana.” She jumped and tucked on my hand.
” How did you know my name?”
She looked up at me and smiled but didn’t utter a word. Instead, she raced to a seesaw.
“Let’s start with this please.” She shouted and tried to sit on it.
I helped her on it and began to push her. She giggled excitedly.
After she was bored with the seesaw, she tried other games and finally crowned with a race on her persistence.
I let her win most of it because she was tired and I didn’t want to give her a tough race.
On our way to the car, she couldn’t stop boasting about how fast she was in running.
I listened to all it keenly and for once, I wished i had an adorable little sister like her.
I checked the time when we got in the car and realized that, we used three hours instead of the 45minutes.
I prayed that Novan won’t be around before we get back.
I remember him telling me to stay clear of his private life.
He told me to mind my business as well when I mentioned Nervisa sometime back.
“I’m hungry, please let’s eat out.” She pleaded and yawned.
“We’ll order when we get home.”
“No-no. Please I want to eat out, am bored with Novan’s home cooked meals even though their the best.”
” No way! Novan cooks?” The expression on my face was unreadable.
” Yeah, don’t you know?”
” No, I never thought..”
” Well he is, he’s good at it and wants to be a big chef. I think that’s his dream but dad wants him to be something else..”
This is a huge revelation and am glad I brought Nervisa out if not I won’t get to know all this about Novan.
“Wait? Why don’t you know all this? You’re supposed to be his girlfriend right?”
” No.. it’s complicated.” I mused with my eyes on the road.
” Complicated? Well, I don’t think so.”
I looked at her as she wrapped her hands on her chest.
“Why did say you don’t think so?”
“Because all the girls he brings home or come to our house on their own accord never make it in. They stay outside and wait for him to show up.”
” Oh.” I didn’t know whether I should be happy about this news.
“Okay with that said, can you take me to a restaurant? I’ll pay you later.” She pouted.
” You’ll pay? How on Earth are you gonna pay? You don’t work.”
” Since it’s a meal, I’ll tell Novan to cook for you when you come around. I’m sure you won’t refuse to taste his food..”
” Hell no, am not gonna miss it for anything.” I laughed as i imagined Novan with an apron tied on his neck.
I pulled over at a restaurant and she ordered for a meal while I went for a cocktail.
I watched her eat for another 30minutes.
I kept checking my phone for any message from Novan but I saw none. He didn’t even call me back.
As we walked back to the car after the meal, i noticed how slow Nervisa has become.
It’s obvious she is exhausted.
In order not to stress her, I picked her up.
” I can see why Donovan let you into our house. You’re realllllly sweet.” She stretched the word ‘really’.
I opened the door and placed her in then rounded the car.
I placed the key in ignition but the car refused to respond.
After few attempts I gave up and took my phone to call my driver but realized that my battery has ran dead.
“What’s the problem?” Nervisa asked in concern.
” My car won’t move and my phone battery is also flat.”
“Oh sorry about that. How far is home from here?”
“Very far.”
“What about your home from here?”
I eyed him, not knowing what she was trying to say.
“Not far.”
“Okay then let’s go to your house, get the car then you’ll drive me back home.”
” Not a bad idea but I prefer we take a taxi to your house.”
” Alright, have it your way.” She shrugged.
I left the car in the parking lot and walked to the road. I remembered to take her backpack.
“So what did you wrote in the piece of paper you gave me?”
” I won’t tell you, you should’ve read it.” She almost snapped.
Whoa!
After spending another 20minutes by the roadside without getting a car, I realized that if we had trekked to my house then by now I’ll be taking her home.
“I’m tired, no taxi is coming.” She purrs.
“Yeah, we should’ve trekked to my house, it’s not really far.”
She looked at me and gave me the *I told you so* look.
So that settled, we began to trek to my house.
People stared at us as we walked. Well most were actually shocked to see me trekking instead of taking a car.
Some even took pictures of me but I tried as much to keep my head down.
Well, I don’t blame them, it’s not everyday you get to see a famous billionaire’s daughter walking freely in town.
I backed Nervisa through it because she got really exhausted and couldn’t even breath.
“Are you alright?” I asked when her breathing won’t even out.
” Am fine, just tired that’s all.” She replied tiredly with difficulty.
I quickened my pace and sighed when I saw our mansion in view.
It was almost dark and my heart wouldn’t stop beating for not sending Nervisa. I fear Novan’s reaction.
Apart from that, there was this kind of feeling I’m getting about all this. I feel as if something will happen and this won’t end well.
The moment I got to our huge gate, one of our cars stopped in front of me.
“Let me see your house first and I really want to rest a little before we set off to my house.”
” Nervisaaa!” I whined.
” Please.” She fixed her adorable cute eyes on me.
We got in and were driven to the parking lot.
“Your house is really beautiful, I’ve never seen any house as this before, only in the movies.” She managed to say.
” Thanks, I love your house too.”
” Who’s this pretty girl Mariana? Is she from children’s home?” Mum asked when we stepped into the room.
“Nope. She’s a friend’s sister. Nervisa, meet my mum.”
“Hello.” She waved from my back.
” Awww, she’s cute. I’ll ..”
“We’ll be back mum.” I cut her off before she could even start .
I’m sorry mum. I’m just confused and even know what am doing though I fear the consequences.
“Alright dear.”
“Is this your room?”
“Yes.” I laid her on the bed and took off her shoes.
” Beautiful.” She whispered quietly.
I walked to my closet to change into another set of clothes.
“You?”
I turned to see Nervisa in a sitting position and a surprised Marion in front of her.
“Did you follow me here?” Nervisa asked.
“Why would I follow you? When you’re the one in my house.”
” What? This is your house?”
” Yeah, what did you think?”
” But this is my brother’s girlfriend house.”
“Huh? What do you mean? My sister doesn’t have a boyfriend.”
” She’s your sister? What’s your name?”
” Am Marion.”
” Wow, your name is even identical.”
“Marion? What’s going on here? Do you guys know each other?” I asked and stared at them.
” Ask her.” Marion pointed to Nervisa.
“Nervisa.” I looked at her.
“You should let him answer, he was the one that came to meet me instead of you.”
” I came because I wanted to see the boy my sis was going to see and scold him but then I saw you.”
” Well then congratulations, you met his sister.”
” What?” It all clicked.
So Marion was the one who took the piece of note Nervisa wrote and went.. went there?
“Marion, you went through my belongings?”
“Nope I didn’t..”
” No keep quiet and get out of my room and don’t come in when am not around.”
” Fine, it was worth it anyway.”
” What did you just say Marion?”
” Nothing.” He shrugged and stormed out.
I looked at Nervisa who was now resting on my bed with the duvet covering her.
“What’s wrong with you Nervisa?”
“Just tired.”
” I’m sorry. I’ll get you some water okay?” I said and got out.
When I came back, she was already fast asleep.
***
“Wake up Nervisa, we need to leave.” I shook her awake.
“Novan doesn’t wake me so early.”
“Am not him so get up. I’m sure you won’t want to make him worried by overstaying.”
” Let him get worried Ariana. He deserve it for saying unpleasant words to you the other day.”
My eyes went wide.
” Don’t be shocked, I heard it all.” She added and rolled out of the bed.
” Can I tell you something?” She asked.
“What?”
“Come closer.” She beckons.
When I was close, she told me to bend then she whispered into my ears.
“Sounds like a good idea Nervisa.” I beamed.
{That changed everything ✓}
By KELSAY (M.M.A.)
CHAPTER 22
MARIANA
I met Shane and his mum for lunch the next day which was Sunday.
And as we ate, I couldn’t help looking at the boy sitting across me.
Why must he look so much like Novan and he claims he doesn’t know him.
But I know that one of them might be lying or both.
“What?”
I startled and moved my eyes from him. I haven’t realize that I’ve been staring.
I shook my head and faked a smile, “it’s nothing, you and Novan look so much alike and I just can’t put my head around the fact that you don’t know each other.”
He smiled and looked down on his plate. ” Were you trying to find out the features we have in common?”
“Yes but you’re quite …I don’t know. I’m just baffled.” I couldn’t make out any word that could explain what I wanted to say.
” Don’t worry, I understand. It will take time for you to get used to our resemblance. Even I was shocked when I saw him with you at the pup. For a moment, I thought you actually mistake me for him.”
His mum whom I’ve forgotten to be around laughed and I joined except for Shane who looked less amused.
“Thanks for having me, your home is beautiful and I enjoyed the meal so much.” I said after the lunch.
” My pleasure dear, if I have my way, I’d invite you to come over all the time.” She beamed sweetly and I hugged her.
” I’ll be back mum.” Shane said and took hold of my wrists as we walked outside.
Luckily for me, when I got home yesterday from Novan’s house, mum and dad was still not around and that saved me from the explanation I would’ve done for staying out.
They came this afternoon but before mum and I could have a proper chat, Shane came and pick me up for lunch at his mum’s.
I was glad when he didn’t make a lot of fuss about our Saturday night.
“So how was your night with your friend or should I say my lookalike?” He asked when we got into the car.
“Horrible, I wish he wasn’t your lookalike. You know, he’s a complete jerk but things changed yesterday.”
” Really?”
” Yeah, we decided to become friends but I don’t know how long it’s going to last. The two of us just can’t stand each other.”
” Well, am glad you gave it a chance. You know, sometimes we tend to misjudge people we’re not even close to.
But once you’re close, you’ll realize that that person is actually nowhere near what you thought he or she is.”
” Yeah you’re right. ” I agreed.
Maybe Novan is really not he seems like to me.
“Would you mind if the three of us hangout this weekend?”
He cleared his throat, ” I won’t mind but I’ll be busy. You know, the exit exam.”
“Oh okay, then we’ll make it after.”
” That will be cool.”
” Which school do you attend?”
” Home school, I don’t really go out.”
I nodded. “I’m sorry but you said you don’t go out but I saw you at that pup..”
” I do go there sometimes but not regularly.”
I wanted to ask more questions but after spotting the irritation on his face, I stopped.
Maybe Novan was right, am actually annoying.
***
Soon Monday was here and just as Novan said, he comes to pick me and we go to his house or the library to revise.
On the third day which was Wednesday, he couldn’t come so I decided to go to him instead.
I drove to his house but didn’t see him around.
I waited for hours and even called his number but he wasn’t answering. I was having a spare key so I got inside and sat in the living room.
I sat on the couch with a book on my lap.
I was engrossed in it that I didn’t hear someone walk in.
“Hey.” I heard a familiar voice.
Standing in front of me is Nervisa in a maroon dress with an identity card draped around his neck. She must be from school.
“Hi Nervisa.” I placed my book down and went to her.
“How are you? I’ve been coming here but I don’t see you. I missed you.”
” Yh, I also wanted to see you but Novan had to take me somewhere all the time after school.”
” Oh I see, where do you school and where has he been taking you to?”
“Santa Maria international is my school but where we’ve been going is a secret.”
” Santa Maria? It’s a great school”
That’s where my brother also school.
” Nice.” She stated and began walking from me.
” Nice? By the way where’s he?”
“What? Is my brother not at home?”
Brother? This is Novan’s sister?
” No he’s not. I was also waiting for him.”
“Strange, he’s always in the house when I return from school but am glad he isn’t around now.” She smiled beautifully. ” I’ll be back.”
She ran upstairs and after some minutes, she returned with a backpack.
“Take me somewhere other than here please. I want to spend some time freely outside before Novan arrives.”
” What? I can’t do that.”
” Why not? It’s just for sometime, we’ll come back after an hour.”
” What if Novan comes looking for you?”
” We’ll come before he does. Please let not waste another more minute. We should get going.” She said and took my hand desperately.
It’s obvious she’s tired of being locked inside all the time.
I’ll just take him to the park for 45minutes and bring her back before Novan returns.
The expression on her face when I agreed and told her that we’ll be going to the park was indescribable.
She was extremely happy and kept jumping on the way to my car.
After fifteen minutes, we arrived at my favorite park which was not far from my home.
We got down from the car and walked in.
“Wow! Just look at that? How I missed all this! You’re really sweet Ariana.” She jumped and tucked on my hand.
” How did you know my name?”
She looked up at me and smiled but didn’t utter a word. Instead, she raced to a seesaw.
“Let’s start with this please.” She shouted and tried to sit on it.
I helped her on it and began to push her. She giggled excitedly.
After she was bored with the seesaw, she tried other games and finally crowned with a race on her persistence.
I let her win most of it because she was tired and I didn’t want to give her a tough race.
On our way to the car, she couldn’t stop boasting about how fast she was in running.
I listened to all it keenly and for once, I wished i had an adorable little sister like her.
I checked the time when we got in the car and realized that, we used three hours instead of the 45minutes.
I prayed that Novan won’t be around before we get back.
I remember him telling me to stay clear of his private life.
He told me to mind my business as well when I mentioned Nervisa sometime back.
“I’m hungry, please let’s eat out.” She pleaded and yawned.
“We’ll order when we get home.”
“No-no. Please I want to eat out, am bored with Novan’s home cooked meals even though their the best.”
” No way! Novan cooks?” The expression on my face was unreadable.
” Yeah, don’t you know?”
” No, I never thought..”
” Well he is, he’s good at it and wants to be a big chef. I think that’s his dream but dad wants him to be something else..”
This is a huge revelation and am glad I brought Nervisa out if not I won’t get to know all this about Novan.
“Wait? Why don’t you know all this? You’re supposed to be his girlfriend right?”
” No.. it’s complicated.” I mused with my eyes on the road.
” Complicated? Well, I don’t think so.”
I looked at her as she wrapped her hands on her chest.
“Why did say you don’t think so?”
“Because all the girls he brings home or come to our house on their own accord never make it in. They stay outside and wait for him to show up.”
” Oh.” I didn’t know whether I should be happy about this news.
“Okay with that said, can you take me to a restaurant? I’ll pay you later.” She pouted.
” You’ll pay? How on Earth are you gonna pay? You don’t work.”
” Since it’s a meal, I’ll tell Novan to cook for you when you come around. I’m sure you won’t refuse to taste his food..”
” Hell no, am not gonna miss it for anything.” I laughed as i imagined Novan with an apron tied on his neck.
I pulled over at a restaurant and she ordered for a meal while I went for a cocktail.
I watched her eat for another 30minutes.
I kept checking my phone for any message from Novan but I saw none. He didn’t even call me back.
As we walked back to the car after the meal, i noticed how slow Nervisa has become.
It’s obvious she is exhausted.
In order not to stress her, I picked her up.
” I can see why Donovan let you into our house. You’re realllllly sweet.” She stretched the word ‘really’.
I opened the door and placed her in then rounded the car.
I placed the key in ignition but the car refused to respond.
After few attempts I gave up and took my phone to call my driver but realized that my battery has ran dead.
“What’s the problem?” Nervisa asked in concern.
” My car won’t move and my phone battery is also flat.”
“Oh sorry about that. How far is home from here?”
“Very far.”
“What about your home from here?”
I eyed him, not knowing what she was trying to say.
“Not far.”
“Okay then let’s go to your house, get the car then you’ll drive me back home.”
” Not a bad idea but I prefer we take a taxi to your house.”
” Alright, have it your way.” She shrugged.
I left the car in the parking lot and walked to the road. I remembered to take her backpack.
“So what did you wrote in the piece of paper you gave me?”
” I won’t tell you, you should’ve read it.” She almost snapped.
Whoa!
After spending another 20minutes by the roadside without getting a car, I realized that if we had trekked to my house then by now I’ll be taking her home.
“I’m tired, no taxi is coming.” She purrs.
“Yeah, we should’ve trekked to my house, it’s not really far.”
She looked at me and gave me the *I told you so* look.
So that settled, we began to trek to my house.
People stared at us as we walked. Well most were actually shocked to see me trekking instead of taking a car.
Some even took pictures of me but I tried as much to keep my head down.
Well, I don’t blame them, it’s not everyday you get to see a famous billionaire’s daughter walking freely in town.
I backed Nervisa through it because she got really exhausted and couldn’t even breath.
“Are you alright?” I asked when her breathing won’t even out.
” Am fine, just tired that’s all.” She replied tiredly with difficulty.
I quickened my pace and sighed when I saw our mansion in view.
It was almost dark and my heart wouldn’t stop beating for not sending Nervisa. I fear Novan’s reaction.
Apart from that, there was this kind of feeling I’m getting about all this. I feel as if something will happen and this won’t end well.
The moment I got to our huge gate, one of our cars stopped in front of me.
“Let me see your house first and I really want to rest a little before we set off to my house.”
” Nervisaaa!” I whined.
” Please.” She fixed her adorable cute eyes on me.
We got in and were driven to the parking lot.
“Your house is really beautiful, I’ve never seen any house as this before, only in the movies.” She managed to say.
” Thanks, I love your house too.”
” Who’s this pretty girl Mariana? Is she from children’s home?” Mum asked when we stepped into the room.
“Nope. She’s a friend’s sister. Nervisa, meet my mum.”
“Hello.” She waved from my back.
” Awww, she’s cute. I’ll ..”
“We’ll be back mum.” I cut her off before she could even start .
I’m sorry mum. I’m just confused and even know what am doing though I fear the consequences.
“Alright dear.”
“Is this your room?”
“Yes.” I laid her on the bed and took off her shoes.
” Beautiful.” She whispered quietly.
I walked to my closet to change into another set of clothes.
“You?”
I turned to see Nervisa in a sitting position and a surprised Marion in front of her.
“Did you follow me here?” Nervisa asked.
“Why would I follow you? When you’re the one in my house.”
” What? This is your house?”
” Yeah, what did you think?”
” But this is my brother’s girlfriend house.”
“Huh? What do you mean? My sister doesn’t have a boyfriend.”
” She’s your sister? What’s your name?”
” Am Marion.”
” Wow, your name is even identical.”
“Marion? What’s going on here? Do you guys know each other?” I asked and stared at them.
” Ask her.” Marion pointed to Nervisa.
“Nervisa.” I looked at her.
“You should let him answer, he was the one that came to meet me instead of you.”
” I came because I wanted to see the boy my sis was going to see and scold him but then I saw you.”
” Well then congratulations, you met his sister.”
” What?” It all clicked.
So Marion was the one who took the piece of note Nervisa wrote and went.. went there?
“Marion, you went through my belongings?”
“Nope I didn’t..”
” No keep quiet and get out of my room and don’t come in when am not around.”
” Fine, it was worth it anyway.”
” What did you just say Marion?”
” Nothing.” He shrugged and stormed out.
I looked at Nervisa who was now resting on my bed with the duvet covering her.
“What’s wrong with you Nervisa?”
“Just tired.”
” I’m sorry. I’ll get you some water okay?” I said and got out.
When I came back, she was already fast asleep.
***
“Wake up Nervisa, we need to leave.” I shook her awake.
“Novan doesn’t wake me so early.”
“Am not him so get up. I’m sure you won’t want to make him worried by overstaying.”
” Let him get worried Ariana. He deserve it for saying unpleasant words to you the other day.”
My eyes went wide.
” Don’t be shocked, I heard it all.” She added and rolled out of the bed.
” Can I tell you something?” She asked.
“What?”
“Come closer.” She beckons.
When I was close, she told me to bend then she whispered into my ears.
“Sounds like a good idea Nervisa.” I beamed.
°
°°°°°°°
THE KISS
{That changed everything ✓}
By KELSAY (M.M.A.)
CHAPTER 23
MARIANA
“Sounds like a good idea Nervisa.” I beamed.
I stepped back and we high-fived.
“Okay so go and bath, I’ll bring your breakfast.”
She nodded and got up.
I got to the kitchen before I realized that I didn’t ask what she’ll take.
I ran back upstairs to ask her, “What will you take Nervisa?”
“Fried meat with juice, omelette and poached egg.” She shouted from bathroom.
” What? You’re joking right?”
” No no.. please get them for me.” She whined.
Why would she take a lot of food?
I went downstairs and brought it just as she requested.
She was still not done bathing so I used that time to order a few clothes for her.
“Wow!” She exclaimed and took the tray after coming out of the bathroom..
” Thanks so much. Novan does not allow me to have these.” She said and took a meat into her mouth and toped it with the poached eggs.
“Why doesn’t he allow you have them?”
“I don’t know why. He’s just too selective and strict when it comes to my feeding.”
I watched her as she abused the meals before her. I knew she won’t be able to consume all.
“So are these the meals he always refuses you?”
“Yeah these and many other.”
There must be a reason why Novan will restrict her from eating certain foods but what could it be?
“Don’t you think you should obey him?”
“That’s what I’ve been doing when he’s around but now that he’s not here, let me do what I also want.”
I nodded.
” Dress up when you’re done, I’ll be back.” I said and walked out.
” Dad!” I called and ran to his study.
“Dad.” He was sitting in his study.
“Princess.”
” Busy this early?” I asked and wrapped my arms around his neck from behind.
“No, am just checking and replying my mails that’s all.”
“Alright, let me help you.”
” No, it’s nothing. You should go and learn. Your exit exam will be up next week.”
” Yes dad, but learning is what I’ve been doing all this time.”
” That reminds me, the proprietor wants you back in the school. They missed you I guess.”
” Tell them am not coming. Am actually enjoying my little holiday in the form of a suspension. ”
” Oh really? ”
” Yes dad.” I pulled his cheeks in a playful manner.
“Stop being too friendly with my husband” mum appeared. She was already dressed exquisitely for work.
She was looking beautiful than before. And my dad, he’s the most handsome of all men.
Sometimes, I think my mum is lucky to have him and sometimes too, I think dad is lucky to have her.
They both deserve each other so much. And the love they have for one another was one of a kind.
They’ll always be my ideal couple and if in case I want to start my own family, I’ll pray for something as this.
“Hey jealous woman. ” I called and kissed dad before walking to her.
“I know you’re not jealous because of how friendly I am with dad but because I gave him a kiss first before you” I grinned and kissed her.
” Are you okay now?” I asked.
“Not enough.” She pouted.
I kissed her on the other cheek then on her forehead then hugged her.
“Alright it’s okay, it’s okay.” Dad pulled me away. ” You’ll get her makeup ruined and her dress wrinkled”.
” Then what if I hug you instead?”
” That will be a lot better.” Dad replied and opened his arms.
” Ahh, you this jealous duo.”
“We can’t help it sweetheart, we love you so much. Right Pablo?”
” Yes Anna Paula, Mariana was the best thing that ever happened to us.”
” Aww..” I drawled and we group hugged. I love my parents too much.
” So when are you two gonna give me a cute little sister?.”
” I’ll be leaving, am almost late.” mum said, ignoring my question and kissed my dad before leaving.
“Ewww.” I scrunched my face.
Mum laughed and left.
” I’m also leaving, take care sweetheart.” Dad said and picked his blazer, shutting the laptop.
” I’ll see you off.” I took his briefcase.
He nodded with an appreciative smile and we walked to there garage where he took his car and drove out.
I was leaving when another car drove in speedily.
It was Novan’s car.
I walked to the car when it stopped.
“Where have you been?” I asked when he got out.
He was only wearing a blue t-shirt with jeans but he looked good. Many people will go through a whole lot of trouble just to look as good as he is now.
“Stop staring.” He snapped his fingers before me.
“Hey, I wasn’t.” I lied.
“I know.” He replied sarcastically.
” Were you at my house yesterday?”
“Yes, I was but I left as quickly as I came since you were not around.”
” Okay okay, I’m sorry for not showing up but didn’t you see anyone?”
” Like who?”
” The little girl.”
” No, who’s she?”
” Nevermind.” She brushed his hands through his hair and walked back towards his car.
“Hey where are you going?”
“Home of course.”
“Aren’t we gonna learn today?”
” No, am busy.” He got into the car and drove off.
It’s obvious he’s looking for Nervisa.
Nervisa had suggested that we play a little hide and seek on Novan. Then on the third day, she’ll go back.
So childish and crazy right?
But I can’t wait for the turnout!
***
Nervisa and I spent the next day touring around our mansion.
“Your house is so big Ariana. It looks like a paradise on Earth.” She complemented.
Yeah, our house is just like heaven on Earth.
“Would you like to see Amy Rockxon.?”
“Yes! yes! yes!” She jumped happily.
” Are you her fan?”
” Yes, I love her music and I love her son. He’s too cute.” She exclaimed.
I picked her up and laughed. ” Really? Her son is cute?”
She nodded and I placed her down. She was so lightweighted. The breakfast I gave her yesterday, I realized that she ate just little of it.
” Let’s do other things, we can go see them tomorrow.”
” Alright, but things like what?”
” Football game in a pool, races or we can just dance. I just want to do everything. Everything that I’ve been deprived off.” She said.
” Alright we’ll race, I’ll give you Marion’s bicycle and I’d take mine.”
“Bicycle race? Wow, nothing can be better than that but I don’t know how to ride.” Her face fell.
” Then I’ll teach you.”
” Yay! You’re the best.”
I called one of our workers and the two bicycles were brought.
She was intelligent. After a few teachings, she was able to grasp quickly and soon she was riding.
She was so excited that when I told her that we should go back home, she declined.
We were still in our compound but it was a bit far from our mansion.
When it was almost dark, we went back home and I could see how tired she was even though she tried hiding it.
“After dinner, we bathed and she slept before me.
***
The next day, we went to the children’s home and we had one hell of fun together.
Nervisa made a lot of friends and made me promise that I’ll bring her back even if she’s with Novan.
“Do we have somewhere else to go tomorrow?” She asked on our way home.
” Yes, tomorrow I’ll be taking you home. Your brother must be dying from worry now.” I said and she nodded.
” Alright, I miss him too.”
***
I woke up the next morning, expecting to see Nervisa but she wasn’t on the bed.
I rushed to the washroom but didn’t see her. I descended the stairs and began calling her.
Where could she have gone at this hour? It was 5am.
Where do I look for her in this large house?
I searched all the empty rooms upstairs and downstairs. I searched everywhere nook and cranny.
I got outside, took my bike and began searching around the compound.
I went to our garden and there she was plugging rose flowers.
“Nervisa.”
She turned and smiled at me. “You just ruined my plan. I wanted to give this roses to you.”
” You almost gave me a heart attack. Please don’t ever do this again.” What will I tell Novan if something was to happen to her or get missing?
I will never forgive myself for that.
“Hey , C’mon! I just wanted to surprise you with the flowers.”
I sighed and took her hand. ” Thank you dear, but we have to eat and leave.”
She followed reluctantly.
After freshening and eating, we set off to Novan’s house.
“I’ll miss you.” She muttered when were almost close to their house.
“I know and I promise to see you at any chance I get.” I pulled over few blocks from their house.
“Can you go from here?” I didn’t want Novan to know that she was with me and that was what Nervisa amd i agreed on.
“Yes.”
“Alright.” She smiled at me, took her backpack and got out.
I watched her get into their house before I drove off.
It was nice having her around. I’ll come see Novan tomorrow.
***
Tomorrow came too quickly and I was seen driving to Novan’s house.
Today is Friday and our exam starts on Monday so am sure this is probably the last time I will see him before we start the exam.
I parked in the parking lot when I got there and walked to the door.
It was left ajar so I went in.
I gasped when I took in the sight before me.
The whole place was disorganized with a lot of broken glasses.
The couches were turned upside down and his clothes including Nervisa’s was flying everywhere.
“Novan?” I called.
No response.
“Novan!”
No response.
I walked to his room and there he sat shirtless with his back towards the door.
Everything was totally ruined in his room. Did he do this himself or he got rubbed?
“Novan?”
“What are you doing here?”
“I came to see you and Nervisa.”
“Well you’ve seen me so get the hell outta here.” She barked.
” Is everything ok? What is wrong?” I walked in and bend on his side.
“Are you blind? Can’t you see things for yourself.” He shot up.
“Where’s Nervisa?” I looked around and straightened up.
“She’s gone and I don’t know where.” He spoke quietly and covered his face with his two palms.
” What? What do you mean she’s gone?” I was alarmed.
•
•••••••
{That changed everything ✓}
By KELSAY (M.M.A.)
CHAPTER 23
MARIANA
“Sounds like a good idea Nervisa.” I beamed.
I stepped back and we high-fived.
“Okay so go and bath, I’ll bring your breakfast.”
She nodded and got up.
I got to the kitchen before I realized that I didn’t ask what she’ll take.
I ran back upstairs to ask her, “What will you take Nervisa?”
“Fried meat with juice, omelette and poached egg.” She shouted from bathroom.
” What? You’re joking right?”
” No no.. please get them for me.” She whined.
Why would she take a lot of food?
I went downstairs and brought it just as she requested.
She was still not done bathing so I used that time to order a few clothes for her.
“Wow!” She exclaimed and took the tray after coming out of the bathroom..
” Thanks so much. Novan does not allow me to have these.” She said and took a meat into her mouth and toped it with the poached eggs.
“Why doesn’t he allow you have them?”
“I don’t know why. He’s just too selective and strict when it comes to my feeding.”
I watched her as she abused the meals before her. I knew she won’t be able to consume all.
“So are these the meals he always refuses you?”
“Yeah these and many other.”
There must be a reason why Novan will restrict her from eating certain foods but what could it be?
“Don’t you think you should obey him?”
“That’s what I’ve been doing when he’s around but now that he’s not here, let me do what I also want.”
I nodded.
” Dress up when you’re done, I’ll be back.” I said and walked out.
” Dad!” I called and ran to his study.
“Dad.” He was sitting in his study.
“Princess.”
” Busy this early?” I asked and wrapped my arms around his neck from behind.
“No, am just checking and replying my mails that’s all.”
“Alright, let me help you.”
” No, it’s nothing. You should go and learn. Your exit exam will be up next week.”
” Yes dad, but learning is what I’ve been doing all this time.”
” That reminds me, the proprietor wants you back in the school. They missed you I guess.”
” Tell them am not coming. Am actually enjoying my little holiday in the form of a suspension. ”
” Oh really? ”
” Yes dad.” I pulled his cheeks in a playful manner.
“Stop being too friendly with my husband” mum appeared. She was already dressed exquisitely for work.
She was looking beautiful than before. And my dad, he’s the most handsome of all men.
Sometimes, I think my mum is lucky to have him and sometimes too, I think dad is lucky to have her.
They both deserve each other so much. And the love they have for one another was one of a kind.
They’ll always be my ideal couple and if in case I want to start my own family, I’ll pray for something as this.
“Hey jealous woman. ” I called and kissed dad before walking to her.
“I know you’re not jealous because of how friendly I am with dad but because I gave him a kiss first before you” I grinned and kissed her.
” Are you okay now?” I asked.
“Not enough.” She pouted.
I kissed her on the other cheek then on her forehead then hugged her.
“Alright it’s okay, it’s okay.” Dad pulled me away. ” You’ll get her makeup ruined and her dress wrinkled”.
” Then what if I hug you instead?”
” That will be a lot better.” Dad replied and opened his arms.
” Ahh, you this jealous duo.”
“We can’t help it sweetheart, we love you so much. Right Pablo?”
” Yes Anna Paula, Mariana was the best thing that ever happened to us.”
” Aww..” I drawled and we group hugged. I love my parents too much.
” So when are you two gonna give me a cute little sister?.”
” I’ll be leaving, am almost late.” mum said, ignoring my question and kissed my dad before leaving.
“Ewww.” I scrunched my face.
Mum laughed and left.
” I’m also leaving, take care sweetheart.” Dad said and picked his blazer, shutting the laptop.
” I’ll see you off.” I took his briefcase.
He nodded with an appreciative smile and we walked to there garage where he took his car and drove out.
I was leaving when another car drove in speedily.
It was Novan’s car.
I walked to the car when it stopped.
“Where have you been?” I asked when he got out.
He was only wearing a blue t-shirt with jeans but he looked good. Many people will go through a whole lot of trouble just to look as good as he is now.
“Stop staring.” He snapped his fingers before me.
“Hey, I wasn’t.” I lied.
“I know.” He replied sarcastically.
” Were you at my house yesterday?”
“Yes, I was but I left as quickly as I came since you were not around.”
” Okay okay, I’m sorry for not showing up but didn’t you see anyone?”
” Like who?”
” The little girl.”
” No, who’s she?”
” Nevermind.” She brushed his hands through his hair and walked back towards his car.
“Hey where are you going?”
“Home of course.”
“Aren’t we gonna learn today?”
” No, am busy.” He got into the car and drove off.
It’s obvious he’s looking for Nervisa.
Nervisa had suggested that we play a little hide and seek on Novan. Then on the third day, she’ll go back.
So childish and crazy right?
But I can’t wait for the turnout!
***
Nervisa and I spent the next day touring around our mansion.
“Your house is so big Ariana. It looks like a paradise on Earth.” She complemented.
Yeah, our house is just like heaven on Earth.
“Would you like to see Amy Rockxon.?”
“Yes! yes! yes!” She jumped happily.
” Are you her fan?”
” Yes, I love her music and I love her son. He’s too cute.” She exclaimed.
I picked her up and laughed. ” Really? Her son is cute?”
She nodded and I placed her down. She was so lightweighted. The breakfast I gave her yesterday, I realized that she ate just little of it.
” Let’s do other things, we can go see them tomorrow.”
” Alright, but things like what?”
” Football game in a pool, races or we can just dance. I just want to do everything. Everything that I’ve been deprived off.” She said.
” Alright we’ll race, I’ll give you Marion’s bicycle and I’d take mine.”
“Bicycle race? Wow, nothing can be better than that but I don’t know how to ride.” Her face fell.
” Then I’ll teach you.”
” Yay! You’re the best.”
I called one of our workers and the two bicycles were brought.
She was intelligent. After a few teachings, she was able to grasp quickly and soon she was riding.
She was so excited that when I told her that we should go back home, she declined.
We were still in our compound but it was a bit far from our mansion.
When it was almost dark, we went back home and I could see how tired she was even though she tried hiding it.
“After dinner, we bathed and she slept before me.
***
The next day, we went to the children’s home and we had one hell of fun together.
Nervisa made a lot of friends and made me promise that I’ll bring her back even if she’s with Novan.
“Do we have somewhere else to go tomorrow?” She asked on our way home.
” Yes, tomorrow I’ll be taking you home. Your brother must be dying from worry now.” I said and she nodded.
” Alright, I miss him too.”
***
I woke up the next morning, expecting to see Nervisa but she wasn’t on the bed.
I rushed to the washroom but didn’t see her. I descended the stairs and began calling her.
Where could she have gone at this hour? It was 5am.
Where do I look for her in this large house?
I searched all the empty rooms upstairs and downstairs. I searched everywhere nook and cranny.
I got outside, took my bike and began searching around the compound.
I went to our garden and there she was plugging rose flowers.
“Nervisa.”
She turned and smiled at me. “You just ruined my plan. I wanted to give this roses to you.”
” You almost gave me a heart attack. Please don’t ever do this again.” What will I tell Novan if something was to happen to her or get missing?
I will never forgive myself for that.
“Hey , C’mon! I just wanted to surprise you with the flowers.”
I sighed and took her hand. ” Thank you dear, but we have to eat and leave.”
She followed reluctantly.
After freshening and eating, we set off to Novan’s house.
“I’ll miss you.” She muttered when were almost close to their house.
“I know and I promise to see you at any chance I get.” I pulled over few blocks from their house.
“Can you go from here?” I didn’t want Novan to know that she was with me and that was what Nervisa amd i agreed on.
“Yes.”
“Alright.” She smiled at me, took her backpack and got out.
I watched her get into their house before I drove off.
It was nice having her around. I’ll come see Novan tomorrow.
***
Tomorrow came too quickly and I was seen driving to Novan’s house.
Today is Friday and our exam starts on Monday so am sure this is probably the last time I will see him before we start the exam.
I parked in the parking lot when I got there and walked to the door.
It was left ajar so I went in.
I gasped when I took in the sight before me.
The whole place was disorganized with a lot of broken glasses.
The couches were turned upside down and his clothes including Nervisa’s was flying everywhere.
“Novan?” I called.
No response.
“Novan!”
No response.
I walked to his room and there he sat shirtless with his back towards the door.
Everything was totally ruined in his room. Did he do this himself or he got rubbed?
“Novan?”
“What are you doing here?”
“I came to see you and Nervisa.”
“Well you’ve seen me so get the hell outta here.” She barked.
” Is everything ok? What is wrong?” I walked in and bend on his side.
“Are you blind? Can’t you see things for yourself.” He shot up.
“Where’s Nervisa?” I looked around and straightened up.
“She’s gone and I don’t know where.” He spoke quietly and covered his face with his two palms.
” What? What do you mean she’s gone?” I was alarmed.
•
•••••••
THE KISS
{That changed everything ✓}
By KELSAY (M.M.A.)
CHAPTER 24
MARIANA
“What do you mean you by she’s gone?”
He eyed me. “I’m not speaking Japanese am I?”
“Fine, since when was that?”
“It’s been four fucking days and I haven’t set my eyes on her. I searched everywhere for her but didn’t see her.”
Four days? But I brought her home yesterday? Where could she have gone?
“Have you reported to the police?”
“Yes, i have.”
” Then… ” I began to say but stopped.
Before I make any move, I have to go back home and search for her. Maybe she went to the children’s home or the park.
Novan was staring at me in expectancy.
I shook my head,”I’ll be back.”
While I was going, he held me back..
“You’ll come back?” He asked with a look of venerability.
I nodded and he let go.
I raced out of his room, making sure that I don’t step on any of the glasses.
I almost run into his friend, mason when I got to the door.”
He’s face held a surprise look before he spoke. ” Hey you’re here.”
“Yes, just leaving.”
“How’s he doing?”
” Not good.”
He nodded and moved away from the door.” See you on Monday.”
” Alright.” I walked to my car and drove straight to the park.
I searched the children’s playground and even the adults but couldn’t find her.
I drove to the restaurant where we once ate and inquired about her but everyone said they didn’t see her.
I drove to the children’s home and it was the same news.
I began to panic as I drove home. It was almost dark and am very tired.
Home is the last place, if she’s not there then I wouldn’t know what I’ll do.
I asked all the workers whether they saw the girl I brought home but they said the last time they saw her was yesterday.
I went to the garden where she went but didn’t see her as well.
By now, I was scared to the bones, my face depicted horror when I think of what Novan might do when he gets to know that I was the one behind all this.
I walked sluggishly back to my car.
I have to tell Novan everything before someone else does.
I felt a tap on my shoulder and i jumped in fright.
“What’s wrong with you? It’s just me.”
I signed when I saw that it was Betsy. I missed her. I feel like hugging her right now.
I’ve been so caught up with Nervisa and Novan that I almost forgot my friend.
I remember the countless times she had to call to see my but I always give her excuses. I think she was fed up with my excuses that’s why she decided to come.
” Are you okay?” She asked in concern and I felt like bursting into tears.
What have I really gotten myself into?
” Yes am fine.” I mumbled and forced myself not to cry.
She observed keenly. “What’s wrong with you? You don’t look okay.”
“Am fine Betsy.” I forced a tight smile.
” Alright but..” she pointed to my car. “Where are you going?”
“Em..I have some work in town. I’ll check it up and come soon.”
” Mind if I come with you? I actually came to see you, I wanted to tell you something. ”
It will be nice to have her with me but I don’t want to drag her into the mess I’ve made.
“It’s okay Betsy, am sorry but I gotta go, we’ll talk later.” I jumped into my car and drove away without giving her a chance to speak.
This is so bad. Nothing like this have ever happened between Betsy and I.
As I branched into Novan’s street I prayed vehemently that Nervisa will be back.
When I got down from my car, I panicked and took slow steps towards the door.
It was still left unclosed so I walked quietly upstairs to Novan’s room.
I craned my neck to check if he was in but he wasn’t.
I mustered courage and stepped in fully. The room was just as bad as it was in the morning.
There was no sight of Novan.
“Novan!” I called his name and walked towards nowhere.
I kept moving about in the house and checking rooms.
I moved to the swimming pool area and adjusted my eyes to the darkness.
I looked around but couldn’t see him.
I was going back in when I heard a groan.
I stood still. Then I heard it again. It was coming from the rooftop.
I rushed upstairs and took the stairs that lead to the roof top. By now, I was a panting mess and my hair was sticking on my face from how heavy my perspiration was.
Once I reached the rooftop, cool breeze hit my skin and my sweat began to dry.
I moved my eyes around and it met a dark figure sitting in a large rocking chair.
“Novan.” I called softly but nervously.
His blood shot eyes shot up at me.
“Novan.” I called again.
“What are you doing here?” He grumbled and moved his eyes from me.
“I told you I’d come so here I am.” I whispered.
” Well I don’t want you here anymore.” He whispered grudgingly.
” What! Why?”
“It’s always like this, they’ll come and pretend to care, promising forever but they just leave in the end.
What shows that you’re here for me geniunely? You probably came because you’ve started pitying me or because I asked you to.
Please leave me alone, I don’t need your pity and I don’t have the strength to witness yet another person leaving me.” He said and turned from me. His voice was filled with melancholy.
This is one side of Novan I’ve never seen before. And why’s he scared of people leaving him? Who left him?
If I hadn’t come here for the wrong reasons it would’ve been a lot more better and easier.
But am the reason why yet another person is gone from him. I took his precious sister and even though I brought her back, if I hadn’t took her then all this wouldn’t have happened.
“I came because I wanted to.”
“Why’d you come?” He asked .
“Because we’re friends remember?”
He scoffed.
“May I?”
I went to sit beside him and when he didn’t say anything, I took it as his answer. The chair was so comfy.
Where do I start from?
“Are you sure you don’t wanna leave?” He asked again.
I nodded and swallowed a lump that has developed in my throat.
After I tell you why am here, no one will tell you to kick my ass out.
Instead of telling him, I went on and asked.”Why did they leave and who?”
He eyed me and shifted on his seat causing the chair to rock us back and forth.
“How’d you understand? You’re just some silly rich girl who gets whatever she wanted to be done by her loving family. Everything is at your disposal.
You didn’t have to worry about anything because your family is always there for you.
They’re always there no matter what and won’t think of leaving you..You haven’t experienced the pain of losing someone so how the fuck are you going to understand me?” He yelled the last part.
” It doesn’t look like you’re lacking something are you? I mean you have a mansion of your own and cars..”
” They mean nothing to me.” He sneered.
” Fine, you’re right! I have a loving family and all and I don’t know how it feels when someone leaves you but that doesn’t mean I haven’t gone through anything rough before.
I just happened not to have experience similar but I also have my worst times and you have no idea what I have to go through.
When I was a kid, i didn’t have a father because I thought I had none. You know that kind of shit that happens in school right?”
When he didn’t respond, I went on.
“Teachers , parents and student treated me as if I was an outcast even though my mum was rich then. I didn’t tell mum how I was being treated then because I didn’t want her to feel bad. Already, I was some kind of problem to her. I didn’t want to add more. And when I finally found my dad, fate also decided to play a cruel role on me.” I sniffed and blinked back tears..
I’ve never opened to anyone about what happened to me many years ago.
I felt him shift closer to me. “It’s okay, you don’t have to say anything.”
I faced him and shook my head. ” Let me say it Novan. You’re just one out of the many who thinks my life is actually filled with roses and void of thorns.”
I placed both hands beside me and looked into the night sky.
” Do you remember asking me where I went?” I asked.
“Yeah, i did.” He responded.
” Well, after I met my daddy, we decided to go visit my granny who was actually leaving here in Australia. It was actually my idea so we left California but encountered an accident. Our..our..plane crushed..and I lost my memory along with my parents… I was so little I didn’t know anything..I .. I..” I couldn’t continue as tears spilled from my eyes.
I tried to stiffen it.
Novan did something I never thought he would.
He pulled me closer and hugged, hugged me so tight.
“Let it all out, you need it.” He whispered.
I hugged him back and cried.
“I’m sorry, I didn’t know. I’m so sorry Riana.” He whispered and i hardly heard him because my sobs were becoming too loud.
“I’m so sorry okay?” He pulled back and wiped my tears with his thumb.
I leaned back into him and cried harder, pulling him much closer.
I feel so weak right now. And I hate myself for crying this much in front of him.
He kept whispering soothing words and my eyes began to close slowly as my sobs reduced.
***
My eyes flatter open and took in my surrounding. My face was pressed in Novan’s chest making it impossible to avoid his sweet fragrance.
What happened? We were talking so how did I end up here?
Oops, I guess I cried myself to sleep. That must be a horrible sight for Novan.
I tried to get up but I couldn’t. I realized that Novan’s arms were still wrapped around me.
I can’t believe we slept out here but why didn’t I feel cold?
My eyes narrowed upwards and I saw that there was a thick shade above us and a fire which was set beside the rockchair.
That explains it.
I decided to snuggle closer to him but remembered why I was here in the first place.
A phone suddenly began to ring and Novan jerked awake, got up and dipped his hands into his pocket.
He brought out his phone and Aria’s image flashed in front of it.
I got up as well and brushed my hair back with my hand.
“Yes?.” He said into the phone.
“What? Are you sure? Am coming right away!” He sprang up and put the phone back into his pocket.
“I have to go, something came up.”
“Is it about Nervisa?”
He nodded.
” I’ll come with.”
He stared at me for a while.
” Fine!”
{That changed everything ✓}
By KELSAY (M.M.A.)
CHAPTER 24
MARIANA
“What do you mean you by she’s gone?”
He eyed me. “I’m not speaking Japanese am I?”
“Fine, since when was that?”
“It’s been four fucking days and I haven’t set my eyes on her. I searched everywhere for her but didn’t see her.”
Four days? But I brought her home yesterday? Where could she have gone?
“Have you reported to the police?”
“Yes, i have.”
” Then… ” I began to say but stopped.
Before I make any move, I have to go back home and search for her. Maybe she went to the children’s home or the park.
Novan was staring at me in expectancy.
I shook my head,”I’ll be back.”
While I was going, he held me back..
“You’ll come back?” He asked with a look of venerability.
I nodded and he let go.
I raced out of his room, making sure that I don’t step on any of the glasses.
I almost run into his friend, mason when I got to the door.”
He’s face held a surprise look before he spoke. ” Hey you’re here.”
“Yes, just leaving.”
“How’s he doing?”
” Not good.”
He nodded and moved away from the door.” See you on Monday.”
” Alright.” I walked to my car and drove straight to the park.
I searched the children’s playground and even the adults but couldn’t find her.
I drove to the restaurant where we once ate and inquired about her but everyone said they didn’t see her.
I drove to the children’s home and it was the same news.
I began to panic as I drove home. It was almost dark and am very tired.
Home is the last place, if she’s not there then I wouldn’t know what I’ll do.
I asked all the workers whether they saw the girl I brought home but they said the last time they saw her was yesterday.
I went to the garden where she went but didn’t see her as well.
By now, I was scared to the bones, my face depicted horror when I think of what Novan might do when he gets to know that I was the one behind all this.
I walked sluggishly back to my car.
I have to tell Novan everything before someone else does.
I felt a tap on my shoulder and i jumped in fright.
“What’s wrong with you? It’s just me.”
I signed when I saw that it was Betsy. I missed her. I feel like hugging her right now.
I’ve been so caught up with Nervisa and Novan that I almost forgot my friend.
I remember the countless times she had to call to see my but I always give her excuses. I think she was fed up with my excuses that’s why she decided to come.
” Are you okay?” She asked in concern and I felt like bursting into tears.
What have I really gotten myself into?
” Yes am fine.” I mumbled and forced myself not to cry.
She observed keenly. “What’s wrong with you? You don’t look okay.”
“Am fine Betsy.” I forced a tight smile.
” Alright but..” she pointed to my car. “Where are you going?”
“Em..I have some work in town. I’ll check it up and come soon.”
” Mind if I come with you? I actually came to see you, I wanted to tell you something. ”
It will be nice to have her with me but I don’t want to drag her into the mess I’ve made.
“It’s okay Betsy, am sorry but I gotta go, we’ll talk later.” I jumped into my car and drove away without giving her a chance to speak.
This is so bad. Nothing like this have ever happened between Betsy and I.
As I branched into Novan’s street I prayed vehemently that Nervisa will be back.
When I got down from my car, I panicked and took slow steps towards the door.
It was still left unclosed so I walked quietly upstairs to Novan’s room.
I craned my neck to check if he was in but he wasn’t.
I mustered courage and stepped in fully. The room was just as bad as it was in the morning.
There was no sight of Novan.
“Novan!” I called his name and walked towards nowhere.
I kept moving about in the house and checking rooms.
I moved to the swimming pool area and adjusted my eyes to the darkness.
I looked around but couldn’t see him.
I was going back in when I heard a groan.
I stood still. Then I heard it again. It was coming from the rooftop.
I rushed upstairs and took the stairs that lead to the roof top. By now, I was a panting mess and my hair was sticking on my face from how heavy my perspiration was.
Once I reached the rooftop, cool breeze hit my skin and my sweat began to dry.
I moved my eyes around and it met a dark figure sitting in a large rocking chair.
“Novan.” I called softly but nervously.
His blood shot eyes shot up at me.
“Novan.” I called again.
“What are you doing here?” He grumbled and moved his eyes from me.
“I told you I’d come so here I am.” I whispered.
” Well I don’t want you here anymore.” He whispered grudgingly.
” What! Why?”
“It’s always like this, they’ll come and pretend to care, promising forever but they just leave in the end.
What shows that you’re here for me geniunely? You probably came because you’ve started pitying me or because I asked you to.
Please leave me alone, I don’t need your pity and I don’t have the strength to witness yet another person leaving me.” He said and turned from me. His voice was filled with melancholy.
This is one side of Novan I’ve never seen before. And why’s he scared of people leaving him? Who left him?
If I hadn’t come here for the wrong reasons it would’ve been a lot more better and easier.
But am the reason why yet another person is gone from him. I took his precious sister and even though I brought her back, if I hadn’t took her then all this wouldn’t have happened.
“I came because I wanted to.”
“Why’d you come?” He asked .
“Because we’re friends remember?”
He scoffed.
“May I?”
I went to sit beside him and when he didn’t say anything, I took it as his answer. The chair was so comfy.
Where do I start from?
“Are you sure you don’t wanna leave?” He asked again.
I nodded and swallowed a lump that has developed in my throat.
After I tell you why am here, no one will tell you to kick my ass out.
Instead of telling him, I went on and asked.”Why did they leave and who?”
He eyed me and shifted on his seat causing the chair to rock us back and forth.
“How’d you understand? You’re just some silly rich girl who gets whatever she wanted to be done by her loving family. Everything is at your disposal.
You didn’t have to worry about anything because your family is always there for you.
They’re always there no matter what and won’t think of leaving you..You haven’t experienced the pain of losing someone so how the fuck are you going to understand me?” He yelled the last part.
” It doesn’t look like you’re lacking something are you? I mean you have a mansion of your own and cars..”
” They mean nothing to me.” He sneered.
” Fine, you’re right! I have a loving family and all and I don’t know how it feels when someone leaves you but that doesn’t mean I haven’t gone through anything rough before.
I just happened not to have experience similar but I also have my worst times and you have no idea what I have to go through.
When I was a kid, i didn’t have a father because I thought I had none. You know that kind of shit that happens in school right?”
When he didn’t respond, I went on.
“Teachers , parents and student treated me as if I was an outcast even though my mum was rich then. I didn’t tell mum how I was being treated then because I didn’t want her to feel bad. Already, I was some kind of problem to her. I didn’t want to add more. And when I finally found my dad, fate also decided to play a cruel role on me.” I sniffed and blinked back tears..
I’ve never opened to anyone about what happened to me many years ago.
I felt him shift closer to me. “It’s okay, you don’t have to say anything.”
I faced him and shook my head. ” Let me say it Novan. You’re just one out of the many who thinks my life is actually filled with roses and void of thorns.”
I placed both hands beside me and looked into the night sky.
” Do you remember asking me where I went?” I asked.
“Yeah, i did.” He responded.
” Well, after I met my daddy, we decided to go visit my granny who was actually leaving here in Australia. It was actually my idea so we left California but encountered an accident. Our..our..plane crushed..and I lost my memory along with my parents… I was so little I didn’t know anything..I .. I..” I couldn’t continue as tears spilled from my eyes.
I tried to stiffen it.
Novan did something I never thought he would.
He pulled me closer and hugged, hugged me so tight.
“Let it all out, you need it.” He whispered.
I hugged him back and cried.
“I’m sorry, I didn’t know. I’m so sorry Riana.” He whispered and i hardly heard him because my sobs were becoming too loud.
“I’m so sorry okay?” He pulled back and wiped my tears with his thumb.
I leaned back into him and cried harder, pulling him much closer.
I feel so weak right now. And I hate myself for crying this much in front of him.
He kept whispering soothing words and my eyes began to close slowly as my sobs reduced.
***
My eyes flatter open and took in my surrounding. My face was pressed in Novan’s chest making it impossible to avoid his sweet fragrance.
What happened? We were talking so how did I end up here?
Oops, I guess I cried myself to sleep. That must be a horrible sight for Novan.
I tried to get up but I couldn’t. I realized that Novan’s arms were still wrapped around me.
I can’t believe we slept out here but why didn’t I feel cold?
My eyes narrowed upwards and I saw that there was a thick shade above us and a fire which was set beside the rockchair.
That explains it.
I decided to snuggle closer to him but remembered why I was here in the first place.
A phone suddenly began to ring and Novan jerked awake, got up and dipped his hands into his pocket.
He brought out his phone and Aria’s image flashed in front of it.
I got up as well and brushed my hair back with my hand.
“Yes?.” He said into the phone.
“What? Are you sure? Am coming right away!” He sprang up and put the phone back into his pocket.
“I have to go, something came up.”
“Is it about Nervisa?”
He nodded.
” I’ll come with.”
He stared at me for a while.
” Fine!”
°
°°°°°°
THE KISS
{That changed everything ✓}
By KELSAY (M.M.A.)
CHAPTER 25
MARIANA
I was literally running as I followed him to his car because of his fast steps.
He got to the car before me and I had to jog to get to him.
I opened the door and jumped into his car.
The ride was silent, I didn’t even know where we were heading to.
“Where. are. we. going?” I picked my words carefully.
“I don’t know, we’re just driving. She didn’t give me a specific place .”
” What did she say to you anyway?”
” She just thinks she has seen someone who looked like Nervisa and said I should drive towards the end of the street.”
What. I thought she really found out where she was.
We kept driving until he received a message and once he checked it, he increased the speed of the car. He began to mutter silent curses and his hands shook on the steering wheel.
Aria must’ve recognize the person she saw as Nervisa.
Within some minutes, he pulled over in front of a hospital.
A hospital? Is Nervisa alright?
He jumped out of the car and run into the hospital.
“Where’s my sister Aria?” He asked once he saw Aria.
“Calm down Donovan”
“Don’t tell me that!” He yelled.
“Your sister is in the ICU.”
I gasped behind Novan and Aria craned his neck to look.
” What happened to her and where the fuck did you see her?”
“I found her unconscious body lying on the road while on my way to the gym this morning. I was certain until I got down to check and it was really her. That was when I called you.”
Lying unconscious?
Novan staggered back a little and brushed his hair back. His red eyes and nose did not go unnoticed.
“Wh…what happened Aria?” He asked and got closer to her.
” As I said, she was lying in the middle of the road and panting heavily. When I got down, I realized that she was being chased by some thugs. They fled when they saw my car I guess.”
” What? So she was kidnapped?”
” That’s what it looks like. Someone close to you must’ve done that!”
My heart skipped when Aria looked in my direction.
” What, someone close? And why would the person do that?”
” For revenge I guess..”
” Shut up, you’ve started spewing nonsense again. I haven’t killed anyone to be avenged.”
” Who among you is her relative?” A lady in a white gown asked.
” It’s me, doctor” Novan said and stepped forward.
“I hope you know what your sister’s condition is right?”
What condition?
” Yes, know. Please is she alright? Can I see her?”
” You can’t see her now. Her condition is very critical and she needs an immediate surgery.”
” No, no, this isn’t happening. I’ll take care of her doctor. She doesn’t need the surgery please.”
” Am sorry, she might die if an immediate surgery is not conducted.”
“What ?” I screamed.
” What are you saying doctor? Novan what is wrong with Nervisa?”
The doctor just stared at Novan before walking away. Novan quickly followed her.
I don’t understand any of this. What is wrong with Nervisa and who kidnapped her and why?
“Don’t pretend like you care” Aria hissed and sat.
I ignored her began to walk towards where Novan and the lady doctor went.
I need to see Novan and tell him everything.
“Where do you think you’re going?” Aria pulled me.
” I owe you no explanation?” I yanked my hand from her.
” Stop acting so smart. We all know what you’ve been up to.”
I gave her derogatory stare. ” And what do you mean?”
” Stop hovering around Novan like a fly who’s desperate for urgent attention. Can’t you see he doesn’t even look at you?” She smirked.
I couldn’t believe she said that to me.
“What is wrong with you? I know you have a problem with me but Is this the time and place for this? Wow, you sure know how to pick your time Aria.” I huffed.
I turned to leave again but stopped when I saw Novan with some papers in his hand.
“Novan.” I called and run after him.
He got to the reception and took a pen, he stared at the papers with watery eyes and shaking hands before he began to sign.
“Is it really necessary to sign them if she’s going to be better?” I asked and he stopped.
” It’s the same thing. If I don’t sign them for the surgery, she’s going to die and if I sign there’s only fifty to fifty assurance of her survival.” He said and signed them all at once.
” You…what..are ..you saying?” My lips quivered.
” Nervisa is suffering from ASD, a congenital heart defect (CHD). That should be enough. You’re intelligent so I believe you know what it means.”
The doctor appeared and he gave the papers to her.
I stood gobsmacked. My mouth dropped open and my eyes widened.
Nervisa is CHD patient? Which means she has a hole in her heart? That explains how tired she gets easily and how she normally runs out of breath.
Why didn’t I notice all this symptoms before?
I shouldn’t have let her run on that park or eat those oily foods. I shouldn’t have let her ride a bicycle.
If her condition is bad now, then it’s all because of me.
“Please can I see her for once before she’s taking to the theatre?”
“Alright, you may but it’s just for five minutes.”
Before the doctor could finish he was running towards the ICU.
I took to my heels. “Novan, we need to talk.”
I guess he didn’t hear me.
I ran faster and pulled him by his jacket. “We need to talk, i have to tell you something now Novan.”
” Not now Mariana. We can do that some other time please.”
“But I need…”
“I said not now!” He yelled and pushed me aside.
He rushed into the ICU and before I could make it, he slammed the door shut.
I went to the small glass opening and stared both brother and sister.
Nervisa had oxygen mask on with a lot of tubes fixed on her body.
I could only see them so I didn’t hear what Novan was saying.
Nervisa’s eyes opened and she smiled weakly.
Her eyes met mine and her lips formed into my name. She was calling me.
I forced the door opened walked in and took her hand. She looked so pale and sick.
“Ariana.” She said quietly.
“Who did this to you Nervisa? Novan asked.
” Ariana.” She called again and smiled at me.
” Yes Nervisa.” I responded and kissed her hands.
” Nervisa were you kidnapped?” Novan asked again.
“Yes. It was Aria… it’s not Arian…” She tried to say but the door opened and the nurses placed her on a stretcher and wheeled her out.
They entered the theatre and it slammed shut.
Novan and I stood by the door and I can tell that he was forcing back tears.
“Did Nervisa say Aria?” Novan asked suddenly and without waiting for an answer, raced to where Aria sat.
“So this was all your plan?” He asked with gritted teeth.
” Plan? What plan?” She presented a surprise and clueless face.
“Stop pretending, bitch. You ganged up with your goons against me and got my sister kidnapped then just like the hypocrite you are, you played a heroin game just to be in my good books? I always knew you were up to no good but I never knew you’d do this to me.”
” What are you saying?”
” You’d know what am saying when we get to the cops.” He deep his hand into his pocket.
” Listen to me, I did nothing to your sister. Someone must’ve threatened her to say my name, believe me.”
His phone began to ring and he brought it to his ears.
“Hello officer, any info? Don’t. I already have the..”
He went silent for sometime.
“What?” He said and looked at me as he sent the phone back into his pocket.
His green eyes darkened and held disappointment.
“You..” his eyes burned with fury.
I shook my head. “No, Novan. I can explain.” My tears spilled freely.
This is what I wanted to avoid.
” Did you..?” He took a step towards me.
” No, I didn’t…” I took a step back. By now, everyone was concentrated on the little drama going on.
“Actually Novan.” Aria cuts in.
“I didn’t want to create any problems between you and Mariana especially not when you guys have started sorting out your differences…”
” Stop being dramatic and say what you want to say!.” He growled with eyes never leaving mine.
“This is the proof of what am saying.” She brought out envelope and handed it to Novan.
“What’s this?”
“See for yourself.”
He opened the envelope and brought some pictures out. His eyes popped as he looked at them then he looked at me with so much contempt and disgust.
“Please don’t look at me like that.”
I looked away, I can’t bare having him look at me like that.
I just can’t take it.
“Was my sister with you?” He asked in a deep calmed tone that forced me to look at him.
” No..I brought her back…”
“Answer me, was my sister with you this whole time!” He barked.
” What else do you want to hear Novan? The evidence is already in front of you.” Aria voiced.
Evidence? What evidence?
” I know but I want to hear it from the horses own mouth. Tell me, was my sister with you?”
“Yes she was but… ”
” Enough!” He said and dropped the pictures which created a bridge between him and I.
I didn’t mind looking at them, am sure it was the moments I spent with Nervisa that was captured.
“Hear me out Novan, I swear I don’t know anything about her kidnapping. Yes, she was with me but I brought her back…”
” You brought her back? How many days was she with you?” He interjected
“I brought her home on..on.. the third day and she was fine..”
His eyes snapped at me one more time.
“Get outta here Mariana and don’t ever show your pathetic face to me again.”
My heart sank and ached so badly.. I’ve never felt this kind of pain before.
“Could you please hear me out ? I know what I did was wrong okay but if I’d known that Nervisa was sick, I wouldn’t have took her with me when she suggested it…”
” Cut that crap! Didn’t I tell you to mind you damn bussiness? What did you think? That am some wicked psycho brother who likes to detain her sister in the house just for fun? Was that why you took her out to play in the park and eat outside?”
“I…I .. I.. believe me..I wanted to tell you everything yesterday…
But you didn’t. Instead, you came to buy my sympathy with your cock and bull story and by shedding a few crocodile tears.”
” Don’t say that Novan, i was being honest with you. I didn’t lie about my story and why would I lie?”
” Because that’s what you’ve been doing. That’s what do and It has become your favourite hobby. I asked you on the first day of her disappearance but you lied straight to my face and that, Mariana, I will never forgive you! Now get out of here!” He grabbed my wrists and pulled me fiercely out of the hospital.
“Listen to me Novan. It wasn’t intentional. I didn’t know things will go this way..”
He moved closer and held my shoulders with both hands tightly and shook me violently.
“Why did you do it Mariana? Why did you take my sister from me? She was my happiness, my hope my inspiration. She’s the reason why I wake up everyday to live this horrible life.
I look forward to every morning because of her. Without her there’s no Donovan. I love her too much but you’ve gone and ruined everything for me. ”
My tears flowed freely.
Did you really hate me that much?”
I shook my head. I was feeling pains from how he was holding me but I couldn’t complain. I just allowed him.
“Fine I know we hated each other and that’s what you think but I never hated you and all that fight we’ve been having I never took any to heart.
Unlike me, I know you hate me and even though I tried to believe that now that we’re friends things will be alright, you just proved just how wrong I was.
I know you want revenge for all the trouble I made you go through but why do you have to involve my sister?
You should’ve taken it all on me and I wouldn’t have said anything. Just why did you involve my sister? You could’ve hit me anyhow you want and do horrible things to me and i won’t complain but…but..”
I felt his tears drop on my temple.
“She’s so innocent and you took advantage of her sweetness and likeness towards you. Do you even know what you’ve done?”
He pushed me back, took a step from me and rubbed his forehead .
“She was the only one I had after mum left then dad as well. I was her mother, father, brother, sister mentor and anything and she was everything to me as well.
You appeared out of nowhere just like the self-made heroin you are and with your shallow mentality you thought you could make her happy than I’ve been doing? You took her to the park to play meanwhile her heart was weak for that, you let her eat unhealthy meals then you made her do strenuous activities all in the name of making her happy but you endangered her instead. Do you think I can’t do all that? Who gave you that right? By doing all this, you also questioned my duties towards her as a brother and I won’t forgive you for that but remember one thing…”
” Novan, Novan! The operation was successful.” Aria said while running towards us.
” Really?” He let go of my shoulders.
“Yes but she’s gone into a temporal coma and the doctor said we can see her. ”
He nodded and walked together with her inside.
I also want to see her so I followed them even though Novan just forbidden me.
Novan must’ve heard my footsteps and halted before turning to me.
“Where are you going? If you intend to see Nervisa then forget it. You’ve done enough for us and we don’t need more.”
” Novan please forgive me. I’m really sorry but please let me see her for once and I promise not to show my face again please.” I pleaded, ignoring the mock-filled smile Aria was throwing at me.
“Don’t make me repeat myself again, Mariana. Just pray that Nervisa heals quickly else I won’t hesitate to drag your family name in the mud by making sure y’all rot in jail. ”
His voice was mean.
” Wha…what are you s.. saying..” I choke on my words.
He walked intimidatingly to me and stared at me eyeballs to eyeballs and spat into my face more hurtful words.
” All I’m saying is that, if I never hated you, then now I do and I can go to any extend to prove just how much.”
His words felt like a thousand swords cutting into my flesh at a go.
” But I don’t, I don’t hate you and I don’t think I ever will.”
” Wait until someone messes with your family like how you just did and maybe you’ll understand. In the meantime, don’t cross my path again. Try to avoid me as much as you can” He didn’t wait anymore.
I stared at his retreating form until he disappeared.
I didn’t know how I got home that day but I found myself crying unstoppably until I slept.
I should probably eat something since I didn’t take anything last night and the whole of today but I don’t feel like taking anything.
My family has tried checking up on me but I told them that am alright and that am only preparing for my exam on Monday.
I wasn’t mad at Novan for all that he said but am mad at myself for endangering Nervisa.
The poor girl is in that horrible condition just because of me.
I can’t even forgive myself for that.
The next day I still went to the hospital anyway but I met the biggest shock of my life.
Novan transferred Nervisa from that hospital to an unknown hospital.
I chattered a taxi to his house to pick my car but I ended up in his room.
I realized that it was disorganized as it was before.
I searched for a broom and when I got it, I began cleaning up the mess. It was my fault after all.
Everything was totally destroyed including his expensive TV, dishes, settee and many other.
After two hours, I was done with the sitting room and it looked better than before.
I proceeded to the kitchen and cleared everything up.
It was left with his bedroom and I was contemplating whether or not I should go in.
Just then, the front door burst open revealing Novan.
He was in clean clothes which means he came home to freshen up yesterday.
His eyes examined the room then suddenly met mine.
He leaned against the doorframe and stared at me unamused.
“What happened to the *mind your damn business* campaign I’ve been preaching?
{That changed everything ✓}
By KELSAY (M.M.A.)
CHAPTER 25
MARIANA
I was literally running as I followed him to his car because of his fast steps.
He got to the car before me and I had to jog to get to him.
I opened the door and jumped into his car.
The ride was silent, I didn’t even know where we were heading to.
“Where. are. we. going?” I picked my words carefully.
“I don’t know, we’re just driving. She didn’t give me a specific place .”
” What did she say to you anyway?”
” She just thinks she has seen someone who looked like Nervisa and said I should drive towards the end of the street.”
What. I thought she really found out where she was.
We kept driving until he received a message and once he checked it, he increased the speed of the car. He began to mutter silent curses and his hands shook on the steering wheel.
Aria must’ve recognize the person she saw as Nervisa.
Within some minutes, he pulled over in front of a hospital.
A hospital? Is Nervisa alright?
He jumped out of the car and run into the hospital.
“Where’s my sister Aria?” He asked once he saw Aria.
“Calm down Donovan”
“Don’t tell me that!” He yelled.
“Your sister is in the ICU.”
I gasped behind Novan and Aria craned his neck to look.
” What happened to her and where the fuck did you see her?”
“I found her unconscious body lying on the road while on my way to the gym this morning. I was certain until I got down to check and it was really her. That was when I called you.”
Lying unconscious?
Novan staggered back a little and brushed his hair back. His red eyes and nose did not go unnoticed.
“Wh…what happened Aria?” He asked and got closer to her.
” As I said, she was lying in the middle of the road and panting heavily. When I got down, I realized that she was being chased by some thugs. They fled when they saw my car I guess.”
” What? So she was kidnapped?”
” That’s what it looks like. Someone close to you must’ve done that!”
My heart skipped when Aria looked in my direction.
” What, someone close? And why would the person do that?”
” For revenge I guess..”
” Shut up, you’ve started spewing nonsense again. I haven’t killed anyone to be avenged.”
” Who among you is her relative?” A lady in a white gown asked.
” It’s me, doctor” Novan said and stepped forward.
“I hope you know what your sister’s condition is right?”
What condition?
” Yes, know. Please is she alright? Can I see her?”
” You can’t see her now. Her condition is very critical and she needs an immediate surgery.”
” No, no, this isn’t happening. I’ll take care of her doctor. She doesn’t need the surgery please.”
” Am sorry, she might die if an immediate surgery is not conducted.”
“What ?” I screamed.
” What are you saying doctor? Novan what is wrong with Nervisa?”
The doctor just stared at Novan before walking away. Novan quickly followed her.
I don’t understand any of this. What is wrong with Nervisa and who kidnapped her and why?
“Don’t pretend like you care” Aria hissed and sat.
I ignored her began to walk towards where Novan and the lady doctor went.
I need to see Novan and tell him everything.
“Where do you think you’re going?” Aria pulled me.
” I owe you no explanation?” I yanked my hand from her.
” Stop acting so smart. We all know what you’ve been up to.”
I gave her derogatory stare. ” And what do you mean?”
” Stop hovering around Novan like a fly who’s desperate for urgent attention. Can’t you see he doesn’t even look at you?” She smirked.
I couldn’t believe she said that to me.
“What is wrong with you? I know you have a problem with me but Is this the time and place for this? Wow, you sure know how to pick your time Aria.” I huffed.
I turned to leave again but stopped when I saw Novan with some papers in his hand.
“Novan.” I called and run after him.
He got to the reception and took a pen, he stared at the papers with watery eyes and shaking hands before he began to sign.
“Is it really necessary to sign them if she’s going to be better?” I asked and he stopped.
” It’s the same thing. If I don’t sign them for the surgery, she’s going to die and if I sign there’s only fifty to fifty assurance of her survival.” He said and signed them all at once.
” You…what..are ..you saying?” My lips quivered.
” Nervisa is suffering from ASD, a congenital heart defect (CHD). That should be enough. You’re intelligent so I believe you know what it means.”
The doctor appeared and he gave the papers to her.
I stood gobsmacked. My mouth dropped open and my eyes widened.
Nervisa is CHD patient? Which means she has a hole in her heart? That explains how tired she gets easily and how she normally runs out of breath.
Why didn’t I notice all this symptoms before?
I shouldn’t have let her run on that park or eat those oily foods. I shouldn’t have let her ride a bicycle.
If her condition is bad now, then it’s all because of me.
“Please can I see her for once before she’s taking to the theatre?”
“Alright, you may but it’s just for five minutes.”
Before the doctor could finish he was running towards the ICU.
I took to my heels. “Novan, we need to talk.”
I guess he didn’t hear me.
I ran faster and pulled him by his jacket. “We need to talk, i have to tell you something now Novan.”
” Not now Mariana. We can do that some other time please.”
“But I need…”
“I said not now!” He yelled and pushed me aside.
He rushed into the ICU and before I could make it, he slammed the door shut.
I went to the small glass opening and stared both brother and sister.
Nervisa had oxygen mask on with a lot of tubes fixed on her body.
I could only see them so I didn’t hear what Novan was saying.
Nervisa’s eyes opened and she smiled weakly.
Her eyes met mine and her lips formed into my name. She was calling me.
I forced the door opened walked in and took her hand. She looked so pale and sick.
“Ariana.” She said quietly.
“Who did this to you Nervisa? Novan asked.
” Ariana.” She called again and smiled at me.
” Yes Nervisa.” I responded and kissed her hands.
” Nervisa were you kidnapped?” Novan asked again.
“Yes. It was Aria… it’s not Arian…” She tried to say but the door opened and the nurses placed her on a stretcher and wheeled her out.
They entered the theatre and it slammed shut.
Novan and I stood by the door and I can tell that he was forcing back tears.
“Did Nervisa say Aria?” Novan asked suddenly and without waiting for an answer, raced to where Aria sat.
“So this was all your plan?” He asked with gritted teeth.
” Plan? What plan?” She presented a surprise and clueless face.
“Stop pretending, bitch. You ganged up with your goons against me and got my sister kidnapped then just like the hypocrite you are, you played a heroin game just to be in my good books? I always knew you were up to no good but I never knew you’d do this to me.”
” What are you saying?”
” You’d know what am saying when we get to the cops.” He deep his hand into his pocket.
” Listen to me, I did nothing to your sister. Someone must’ve threatened her to say my name, believe me.”
His phone began to ring and he brought it to his ears.
“Hello officer, any info? Don’t. I already have the..”
He went silent for sometime.
“What?” He said and looked at me as he sent the phone back into his pocket.
His green eyes darkened and held disappointment.
“You..” his eyes burned with fury.
I shook my head. “No, Novan. I can explain.” My tears spilled freely.
This is what I wanted to avoid.
” Did you..?” He took a step towards me.
” No, I didn’t…” I took a step back. By now, everyone was concentrated on the little drama going on.
“Actually Novan.” Aria cuts in.
“I didn’t want to create any problems between you and Mariana especially not when you guys have started sorting out your differences…”
” Stop being dramatic and say what you want to say!.” He growled with eyes never leaving mine.
“This is the proof of what am saying.” She brought out envelope and handed it to Novan.
“What’s this?”
“See for yourself.”
He opened the envelope and brought some pictures out. His eyes popped as he looked at them then he looked at me with so much contempt and disgust.
“Please don’t look at me like that.”
I looked away, I can’t bare having him look at me like that.
I just can’t take it.
“Was my sister with you?” He asked in a deep calmed tone that forced me to look at him.
” No..I brought her back…”
“Answer me, was my sister with you this whole time!” He barked.
” What else do you want to hear Novan? The evidence is already in front of you.” Aria voiced.
Evidence? What evidence?
” I know but I want to hear it from the horses own mouth. Tell me, was my sister with you?”
“Yes she was but… ”
” Enough!” He said and dropped the pictures which created a bridge between him and I.
I didn’t mind looking at them, am sure it was the moments I spent with Nervisa that was captured.
“Hear me out Novan, I swear I don’t know anything about her kidnapping. Yes, she was with me but I brought her back…”
” You brought her back? How many days was she with you?” He interjected
“I brought her home on..on.. the third day and she was fine..”
His eyes snapped at me one more time.
“Get outta here Mariana and don’t ever show your pathetic face to me again.”
My heart sank and ached so badly.. I’ve never felt this kind of pain before.
“Could you please hear me out ? I know what I did was wrong okay but if I’d known that Nervisa was sick, I wouldn’t have took her with me when she suggested it…”
” Cut that crap! Didn’t I tell you to mind you damn bussiness? What did you think? That am some wicked psycho brother who likes to detain her sister in the house just for fun? Was that why you took her out to play in the park and eat outside?”
“I…I .. I.. believe me..I wanted to tell you everything yesterday…
But you didn’t. Instead, you came to buy my sympathy with your cock and bull story and by shedding a few crocodile tears.”
” Don’t say that Novan, i was being honest with you. I didn’t lie about my story and why would I lie?”
” Because that’s what you’ve been doing. That’s what do and It has become your favourite hobby. I asked you on the first day of her disappearance but you lied straight to my face and that, Mariana, I will never forgive you! Now get out of here!” He grabbed my wrists and pulled me fiercely out of the hospital.
“Listen to me Novan. It wasn’t intentional. I didn’t know things will go this way..”
He moved closer and held my shoulders with both hands tightly and shook me violently.
“Why did you do it Mariana? Why did you take my sister from me? She was my happiness, my hope my inspiration. She’s the reason why I wake up everyday to live this horrible life.
I look forward to every morning because of her. Without her there’s no Donovan. I love her too much but you’ve gone and ruined everything for me. ”
My tears flowed freely.
Did you really hate me that much?”
I shook my head. I was feeling pains from how he was holding me but I couldn’t complain. I just allowed him.
“Fine I know we hated each other and that’s what you think but I never hated you and all that fight we’ve been having I never took any to heart.
Unlike me, I know you hate me and even though I tried to believe that now that we’re friends things will be alright, you just proved just how wrong I was.
I know you want revenge for all the trouble I made you go through but why do you have to involve my sister?
You should’ve taken it all on me and I wouldn’t have said anything. Just why did you involve my sister? You could’ve hit me anyhow you want and do horrible things to me and i won’t complain but…but..”
I felt his tears drop on my temple.
“She’s so innocent and you took advantage of her sweetness and likeness towards you. Do you even know what you’ve done?”
He pushed me back, took a step from me and rubbed his forehead .
“She was the only one I had after mum left then dad as well. I was her mother, father, brother, sister mentor and anything and she was everything to me as well.
You appeared out of nowhere just like the self-made heroin you are and with your shallow mentality you thought you could make her happy than I’ve been doing? You took her to the park to play meanwhile her heart was weak for that, you let her eat unhealthy meals then you made her do strenuous activities all in the name of making her happy but you endangered her instead. Do you think I can’t do all that? Who gave you that right? By doing all this, you also questioned my duties towards her as a brother and I won’t forgive you for that but remember one thing…”
” Novan, Novan! The operation was successful.” Aria said while running towards us.
” Really?” He let go of my shoulders.
“Yes but she’s gone into a temporal coma and the doctor said we can see her. ”
He nodded and walked together with her inside.
I also want to see her so I followed them even though Novan just forbidden me.
Novan must’ve heard my footsteps and halted before turning to me.
“Where are you going? If you intend to see Nervisa then forget it. You’ve done enough for us and we don’t need more.”
” Novan please forgive me. I’m really sorry but please let me see her for once and I promise not to show my face again please.” I pleaded, ignoring the mock-filled smile Aria was throwing at me.
“Don’t make me repeat myself again, Mariana. Just pray that Nervisa heals quickly else I won’t hesitate to drag your family name in the mud by making sure y’all rot in jail. ”
His voice was mean.
” Wha…what are you s.. saying..” I choke on my words.
He walked intimidatingly to me and stared at me eyeballs to eyeballs and spat into my face more hurtful words.
” All I’m saying is that, if I never hated you, then now I do and I can go to any extend to prove just how much.”
His words felt like a thousand swords cutting into my flesh at a go.
” But I don’t, I don’t hate you and I don’t think I ever will.”
” Wait until someone messes with your family like how you just did and maybe you’ll understand. In the meantime, don’t cross my path again. Try to avoid me as much as you can” He didn’t wait anymore.
I stared at his retreating form until he disappeared.
I didn’t know how I got home that day but I found myself crying unstoppably until I slept.
I should probably eat something since I didn’t take anything last night and the whole of today but I don’t feel like taking anything.
My family has tried checking up on me but I told them that am alright and that am only preparing for my exam on Monday.
I wasn’t mad at Novan for all that he said but am mad at myself for endangering Nervisa.
The poor girl is in that horrible condition just because of me.
I can’t even forgive myself for that.
The next day I still went to the hospital anyway but I met the biggest shock of my life.
Novan transferred Nervisa from that hospital to an unknown hospital.
I chattered a taxi to his house to pick my car but I ended up in his room.
I realized that it was disorganized as it was before.
I searched for a broom and when I got it, I began cleaning up the mess. It was my fault after all.
Everything was totally destroyed including his expensive TV, dishes, settee and many other.
After two hours, I was done with the sitting room and it looked better than before.
I proceeded to the kitchen and cleared everything up.
It was left with his bedroom and I was contemplating whether or not I should go in.
Just then, the front door burst open revealing Novan.
He was in clean clothes which means he came home to freshen up yesterday.
His eyes examined the room then suddenly met mine.
He leaned against the doorframe and stared at me unamused.
“What happened to the *mind your damn business* campaign I’ve been preaching?
°
°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°
