Category: AGE DOESN’T MATTER

   “That was one of the best food I’ve ever tasted!” I said after the meal we just had in the restaurant. 

“Well I still think I can do better!” Jason stated making me roll my eyes. 

“Don’t be a lame jerk and pay up so we can get out of here, somehow this restaurant feels like a hospital!” I said. 

“That’s the first thing i said to my self when we walked in, but wait! I thought you were paying!”  Jason blurted. 

“Me? You’re Joking right? I’m the female here, not the male, and you’re so not okay, if you’re planning to keep your parent’s money bottled up in your pocket! Now pay up and come meet me outside!” I said, stood up, grabbed my bag and walked out of the restaurant. 

   Immediately I stepped outside, the sun suddenly hid behind the cloud and I quickly prayed for it to remain like that, cause the sun was pretty hot, and being cloudy like this, the day felt more calm. 

“What are we looking at?” I heard Jason’s voice behind me I turned. 

“Nothing!” I sighed. 

“You seem bored, Is the date lame to you?” Jason asked, his expression folding into a case of worry. 

“I’m not bored and if I happen to be bored, I’ll tell you right away,” I stated and he shook his head. “You’re not even planning to pretend everything’s alright and pretend the date is not boring even if it is boring?”  Neil shook his head. 

“And why would I do something like that and kill myself.!” I smiled. 

Jason sighed trying to push back his sigh. 

“Anyways.” He started “There’s a cinema around the corner here, it’s not too big, so would you like to go see a movie?” Jason asked…

“I was trapped in the restaurant enough, a movie place would be worst, we should go places that involves being outdoors, you understand right?” I explained and he nodded putting his hand in his pocket. 

“So… Do You want to go the wave lake?” Jason asked. “I mean it’s perfect for dates, like I heard and people especially couples go there to watch the sunset and beside the view is pretty good.” Jason expound. 

“Well, then what are we waiting for” I said as I adjusted my purse on my body. 

“Okay, it’s not far from here, it’s just like taking a step from–

“I’ve been to wave lake before, how can anyone be possibly be living here and have not been to wave lake before.?” I rolled my eyes and he smiled. 

“Okay then, Mrs. Know it all, lead the way!” He scoffed. 

“follow my lead then!” I primped. 

–

   Jason and I walked on the busy streets as many things caught our eyes and attention, we talked about them and then moved to another conversation. It went like that till Jason found a photo booth. 

“I didn’t know we had a photo booth in town!” Jason said. 

“Yeah, I mean it’s the twenty first century for christ sake, how is the owner making any money, we all have our phones to take pictures of ourselves!” I stated. 

“Maybe some people still wants things the old fashioned way,” Jason smiled staring at the booth. 

I looked at him “And why am I feeling like you do too. Come on, let’s go then!” I said and pulled him by his hand. 

  We got into the photo booth and had our pictures taken and received the tiny photo of us as we walked out of the booth. 

“Oh my God, I look hideous!” I said as I stared at the pictures as my head looked big and swollen in all the pictures, arranged in rows. 

“No kidding, your head suddenly reminded me of eggs!” Jason laughed. 

“that’s it, I’m burning them all!” I said about to shove the pictures in my bag when Jason took it from me. 

“This will all be memories, just forget the fact that you look like a female egg, I’ll keep this, don’t worry!” Jason gave a smile. 

“We’re on a date Jason, I’m supposed to Recieve compliment for the whole day!” I crossed my arms around my chest. 

“Okay, sorry, you look like a gorgeously cooked egg”. 

“You’re impossible” I added dramatically and started to walk ahead of him. 

“You should say that to your self more often.” Jason laughed behind me. “And I was joking. You looked pretty in all of them.” 

“Not buying your sweet fake words this time.” I said to him.

And from the front I could hear his hysteric laugh. 

*

 We got to wave lake. 

 Wave lake is one of the lake in our town and the only lake in our town, its not too big or small, there’s a bridge at the center of the lake, a very wide and spacious bridge that reaches the other end of the lake. 

It’s wide enough for two cars to fit in but cars or any other vehicles are not allowed on the bridge, I’ve been to the bridge twice and its been nothing more than a bridge, but now people see it as a bridge where they can go for picnics, cause its close to the water and you can meet a perfect sunset and a perfect view, And then there was a rumour that came that said two people actually did a wedding on the bridge. Well they’re pretty strange rumours going on about this bridge.

  Jason and I got to the wooden bridge, a wooden bridge that I’m sure wood live for a hundred years. 

I was about to step on the bridge when Jason stopped me. 

“What?” I asked.

“I heard something about this bridge.” he said narrowing his eyes. 

“And what did you hear?” I added sarcastically. 

“Just hold my hand, and when we get on the bridge, I’ll tell ya” Jason stated. 

“Seriously?” I shot him a glare. 

“We’re just holding hands, not stripping, gosh for goodness sake can you just not act forty three for five minutes?” Jason shook his head. 

 I sighed. “Okay fine give me your hand” 

“Now that’s more like it!” Jason grinned and before I knew it, he clasped our fingers together and pulled me gently as we both took a step on the bridge. 

 He let’s go of my hand immediately we stepped on the bridge. 

“Why did you even hold them in the first place?” 

“Because… I heard a rumour, that if two people of the opposite walks together on this bridge simultaneously, holding hands, that they’ll fall in love, and I’m already in love with you, so it just needs to happen the other way round too!” Jason smiled.

Like I said, this bridge and it’s crazy rumours. 

And somehow I like how he continously and boldly admits he likes me. It’s flattering. 

“And you believe that?” I shot him a quizzical look. 

“Uh duhh, why not” he shrugged. 

   

 We both starts to walk on the bridge, not actually heading to the other side, but just walking on the bridge, enjoying the view, and the coolness from the lake. 

People stood on each side of the open bridge, some with families, friends, couples, the bridge was filled with laughter from different voices, footsteps could be heard too, cause Jason and I weren’t the only one walking around.

 

“If you look closely, almost at the end of the bridge, there’s an ice cream cart, do you think we should get one?” Jason asked. 

“Why not!” I said and our destination on the bridge suddenly became almost at the end of the bridge, where they sold ice-cream. 

 Jason and I walked towards the cart when we suddenly encountered a group of teenagers coming our way. 

  They all started to whisper among themselves and started to stylishly point at Jason. 

Oh so they think he’s cute. 

“You know they’re talking about you right?” I asked and Jason laughed. 

“Did you have to say so, of course I do!” Jason couldn’t contain his laugh, his white teeth matching his inner shirt. 

 The girls were still a bit far away so they could hardly hear what we were saying. 

“So, here’s a plan!” I grinned. 

“A plan for what?” Jason asked. 

“Just listen, when the girls come close by, I like the girl with the red hair, so throw a flirty smile at her or maybe wink, to get her melting!” I smiled and Jason paused to look at me. “I didn’t know you had this side of you Elsa!”. 

“Well now you know, so do it!” I said and he shook his head Negatively pretending he wasn’t interested in my plan. 

But when the girls got close, and at exactly to the red haired girl, Jason threw her a flirty smile and winked. 

 The girls silently screamed and when they walked passed us they all started to say “Oh my God, he winked at Anna!” 

  Jason and I couldn’t contain the laugh that was coming up. And we both let it all out immediately we couldn’t hear the girls anymore. 

“Nice one though” Jason breathed out. 

“I know right!” I smiled.

“But wait, we’re both on a date, why are you telling me to flirt with other girls!” Jason asked. 

I shrugged. “I don’t know cause it’s fun!” 

“Well it is fun, but you’re supposed to be jealous!” Jason stated. 

“Oh…” I turned to him. “I get it, that was the part I was supposed to be jealous right?” 

“Yep, but you made me throw a wink!” Jason sighed. 

“Yeah, which doesn’t get old every single moment I think about” I spat a small laugh. 

 Two other girls walked by and again they were also mesmerized by Jason’s “Charm”. 

 

“Sorry, we’re on a date you can look else where.” I said to the girls and they glared at me before walking away very fast. 

“Huh?” Jason turned to me. 

“What? Are you disappointed, I thought you said I was supposed to be jealous, I’m being jealous and all you can say is ‘huh?’…”  I rolled my eyes. 

“Actually my so called ‘huh?’ was a speechless expression which actually became a speech cause I said and which actually meant how surprised I was by your action! And I know you weren’t really jealous, you were just acting!” Jason said narrowing his eyes at me. 

 We were almost at the ice-cream place and my mouth was starting to water. 

“You know, I like how you get me so much!” I laughed and hurried to the ice cream cart. 

–

  Sadly the man selling the ice cream said he had sell he had to today, and there was no more Ice cream. 

  Jason and I rested at the wooding railings of the bridge and watched the water. 

“And it is a pretty nice view!” I sighed. 

“Are you sure, cause from up here it seems a lot nicer!” Jason smirked. 

I looked up at him. “What do you mean from up there, we’re both standing on the same place and watching the same view.”

“Yeah I know that!” he bit his bottom lip. 

Okay he shouldn’t have done that. 

“Well we’re standing on the same grounds, but we’re not actually the same height!” he teased and I shut my eyes. 

“Okay fine. Rub it all in. You’re taller I get it, now shut up!” I sighed and he laughed. 

He needs to pay me up, I’ve made him laugh all day. 

“You find it funny teasing me don’t ya!” I sighed. 

“Yep” he replied popping the ‘p’ 

 We both stayed like that and said nothing, other people’s chattering could be heard from afar and the cool breeze just sweetened the atmosphere. 

 I watched the lake as the wind danced on the water making it create powerless and tiny waves. 

  My skin went cold and my blood went hot immediately Jason hugged me from behind. 

His hands across my shoulders and his chin resting on my left shoulder. 

“I’m asking for your permission, can we stay like this for just a second!” 

. 

T. B. C

 

 After leaving the Huggins residence, I left for the hospital. 

 When I got into the ward my mom mom was in, i met my dad half asleep on the cushion he was seated, 

I accidentally slammed the door waking my dad, but thankfully my mom was alseep and seemed very deep in her sleep. 

“Oh you’re here!” My dad said. 

“Yeah!” I grinned. 

“How was work?” he asked. 

“Great!” 

“Good!” 

“How is mom?” I asked. 

“She’s doing okay and when I say that I mean better than okay!” my dad said and I laughed happily. 

“Okay dad you can go home I’ll take it from here!” I tell my Dad. 

“No it’s okay!” He protested. 

“Dad, you’re tired I walked in here to see you sleeping, go home, take a bath, and rest all you can, I’m here with mom, my job doesn’t start until midday, so it doesn’t matter if I pull an all nighter here in the hospital.” I sighed. 

My dad smiled and stood up.

“Thanks dear, you’re the best!” 

“I know right?” I teased and the both of us laughed. 

 

 Seconds later my dad left leaving my mom and I alone. And I breathed a sigh of relief, at least she’s doing okay! 

   I was alone and thinking to myself about nothing when a call came into my phone. 

 Neil. 

“HI.. Neil… Hello!” I breathed into the phone. 

“Hi there Elsa! How are you?” He asked. 

“I am fine!” I replied. 

“Okay so, don’t be surprised, I’m in front of your house now, can you come out?” 

“My house? Uh.. 

“Yeah, your house, what’s wrong?” he asked. 

“I am not at home right now actually, I’m at the hospital!” 

“The hospital!” his voice was suddenly loud.  “What happened to you, are you okay?” 

“Yeah, I am fine, it’s my mom, she… She got into an accident but don’t worry she’s fine!” I sighed. 

“But still… What is the name of the hospital she got admitted?” Neil asked. 

“Look you don’t have to come here Neil it’s okay, and besides visiting hours are closed, only close family members can come, even cousins are not allowed!” I made it clear to him and he sighed. 

“Yeah but still just tell me the name of the hospital, I will show up tomorrow” He sighed. 

“Okay fine, I’ll text you the address but you might not find me here when you come cause I might have left for work already!” I expound and heard his intense breathing. 

“Okay then, I’ll be waiting for your text!” He said and I nodded with a “sure” before hanging up. 

 I texted the address immediately before I forgot and I started to think why I didn’t tell him the name of the address through the call, it would have been so much easier that way. 

–

  I stayed with my mom all through the night and when it got to 3.am I was woken up by my mom’s soft voice calling out my name. 

 I opened my eyes and my mom smiled. 

And with a flushed smile she whispered. “I have to pee!” 

 I smiled back and wiped out my sleepy eyes with my hands before helping my mom to the bathroom. 

  My mom and I talked through the night but she later found out i was still so sleepy and she begged me to sleep a little, I declined but later fell asleep without knowing. 

  

 The next morning when I woke up, I met my dad in the hospital already and I knew it was my cue to go home and rest well. 

+

         #JASON 

 It was morning and I could hear the back of mind thinking about Elsa. 

Like what the hell. 

 I didn’t know why but all I wanted to do today was not go to school. 

 I heard a knock on the door and yelled “come in”. 

The door opened and Dessera walked in. 

 “Oh sera, it’s you!” I said sitting on my bed. 

“It’s Dessera!” she said. 

“Like I don’t know that!” I rolled my eyes. “Instead of calling you Dessera, I had to make it short by calling you sera so it wouldn’t waste time. Where the fuck did you live in a farm?” 

“Yes I actually grew farm with my grandparents! We used to have this big farm but then my grand pappy got… Scom.. Uhm… ScSca… scam.. Scammed yeah scammed and we lost every one… Ev.. Every thing” Dessera explained happily gesturing her hands. 

She doesn’t get it. 

“You know what, there’s no point explaining things to you, why are you here anyways!” I asked. 

“It’s eight thirty and you’re late for school your mother said I should come check on you!” Dessera slowly took her time to compose that. 

“Well I’m not going to school today!” I broke the news. 

“Why? Are you sick?” Dessera asked. 

I sighed. “It’s none of your business sera and if mom asks, yes I am sick!” 

“But you look fine to me!” Dessera said. 

Okay I’m going to cry now. 

“Just go get me a cup of coffee that would be nice or no thank you I’ll go get it myself and if I happen to run into mom, I’ll tell her why I’m skipping school myself thank you for your time Dessera!” I said and walked out of my room. 

 

 I walked into the kitchen and saw my mom making coffee and I smiled. 

“Good morning mom!” I grinned. 

“Do not smile with me! It’s past the time you leave for school! What the hell are you still doing at home!” my mom half yelled. 

“Well cause, I don’t want to go.!” I stated. 

“Why?” she gave me an angry look. 

“Cause… I…i

“Cause what?” 

“I just don’t want to be in school today okay! And please do not ask me why, cause I am confused and don’t know why I want to stay home either!” I yelled and my mom sighed heavily. 

“Are you going through any breakup?” she looked at me suspiciously. 

“No, I’m dating I haven’t even dated anyone!” I made it clear to her. 

“Then what is wrong with you, why are you so confused? Are you depressed or something? I hope you’re not! Tell me Jason what is wrong with you?” my mom asked with care. 

 I sighed. “Honestly mom I don’t know, I just want today to speed up so Elsa can come here Tutor me and then leave and bam today will be over and that’s the end of today, I don’t know!”

 

 My mom paused and looked at me. 

“So you want to run past time or you just want Elsa here?” 

“Huh?” I was confused by her words. “What are you implying?” I asked. 

 She crossed her hands and moved her hair back gently. 

“Do you like Elsa?” my mom asked. 

“What?” I laughed. 

“What kind of absurd question is that mom?” I crossed my arms. 

“Look at you acting all tough and manly in front of me like you have no clue of what I’m talking about just because you grew little muscle all up in there!” my mom said reffering to my bicep and punching them with her soft hands. 

“You like Elsa don’t you, and don’t say it’s absurd! Cause it’s not its a normal question and why do you even say it’s absurd, isn’t she worth liking, Elsa is very pretty if I’m to judge!” my mom stated rushing her words. 

“Well okay Elsa is pretty and worth to like but your question to me doesn’t make any sense!” I huffed. 

“What?” she scoffed “You’re the one not making any sense it’s just a simple question Jason. Yes or no?”. 

“No okay! I don’t like Elsa!” I yelled angrily hating myself for lying about liking her. 

 My mom paused and adjusted her robe on her body. She suddenly received a text from her phone and I don’t know who that was but she was angry when she replied the person, and then dropped her phone on the counter. 

“You’re lying!” she narrowed her eyes at me. 

“Okay mom why don’t you just kill me!” I huffed. 

“I would but I can’t cause I love you, I gave birth to you and I want the best for you, so now just tell me, remember Jason, you can tell me anything okay? And I promise I won’t judge!” She said sounding like really promising and I looked up at her stern and serious face. 

I can trust her. 

“You won’t judge!” 

“I won’t!” she assured me. 

I sighed “Okay… I think I like Elsa!” 

“You think or you do?” 

“I do!” I sighed. 

This woman,!! 

“See that’s nothing to be ashamed of!” my mom smiled. 

“Really?” I asked. 

“Of course, people fall in love all the time and I haven’t seen you fall for anyone before, I had no clue it would be Elsa!” my mom said focusing back on her coffee. 

“So now you know, what do you want me to do?” I shrugged. 

“Whatever you do, do not confess your feelings to Elsa!” my mom warned. 

“What? Why?” I asked. 

I wasn’t planning to do so anyways. 

“she has a boyfriend!” 

“You mean that guy who came looking for her Neil?” I asked and my mom nodded talomh a sip out of her coffee. 

“Well Neil isn’t her boyfriend they’re just friends!” I explained. 

“That’s what we all think, but they might start dating you may not know. And just look at the age difference Jason and she is your teacher!” my mom said making me feel worse about myself. 

“And what the fuck is wrong with that?” I was getting pissed. “Elsa is just twenty one” 

“And you just turned eighteen! Do you ever see the two of you together?” my mom asked. 

Always good with asking stupid questions. 

And now she’s making me feel like shit. Why did I ever tell her about this 

“Mom remember you said you won’t judge!” I stated. 

“Sorry but I have to! Look I Love you Jason, cause you came out of me and I really like Elsa cause, she’s very sweet and because she gives you different tastes of your own medicine, but I don’t see any good with you falling for her.” my mom explained. 

“You know what mom, let’s not talk about this anymore, I regret talking to you about this!” I said and stormed off to my room angrily. 

 Ugh she just have to ruin everything, now my hopes of Elsa has dried down and I don’t think it will ever be coming back up. 

So what if she’s twenty and I’m eighteen age doesn’t fucking matter. 

I like her and don’t care if she’s older. 

Ugh my mom is such a… Ugh I don’t even know what to call her. 

So what if she and Neil are friends. 

Feeling pissed, I kicked my study desk angrily and the light wooden table crashed to the floor and landed in peices. Yeah that’s how mad I am. 

[] 

              #ELSA

 

 I started getting ready for what and I put on my casual Jean and t-shirt before packing my hair up. 

 I had bread and jam for lunch, didn’t have the time to cook, I ate lunch and carried my bag with books in it and was ready to leave when I got a call from Mrs Huggins. 

Huh why is she calling? 

“Mrs Huggins? Good day, what a surprise you called I am on my way to your h–

“Jason isn’t feeling well today Elsa! And he’s not home right now, but I want you to come over, I have something to talk to you about!” Mrs Huggins stated and I could hear the seriousness in her voice. 

“Is something wrong Mrs Huggins?” I aksed to be sure. 

And she suddenly laughed. “oh everything is fine dear, but it’s about Jason, please just come over” Mrs Huggins added and I agreed before hanging up. 

 I left the house and hoped it is not anything bad.

.

T. B. C 

I turned to the crowd  but couldn’t find Jason, standing where he was standing before. 

 And then I turned to see him walking up the stairs towards me.

“So you finally showed up!” Jason said as he got to me. 

“I’d look bad if I miss it and now I’m kind of regretting why am here!” I sighed. 

“Why?” he asked. 

“Look at your girlfriends and look at me.” I said and gesture my hand around referring to girls I’m skimpy dresses. 

“Yeah, what’s wrong with them and what’s wrong with you!” Jason asked. 

“I mean, are we in the same league?” I rolled my eyes. 

“No, but you’re kinda here so… oh and I forgot to ask, how was your boyfriend graduation ceremony?” Jason asked. 

I sighed. “It was awesome and again he’s not my boyfriend!” 

“Yeah that’s what you all say and then the next minute you and the person who you’re referring to as not my boyfriend is actually in a corner with you giving you raw smooches!” Jason laughed and I turned to him. 

“What?” he asked holding my gaze. 

“Don’t let me cuss you on your birthday!” I threatened. 

“Cusses on my birthday not allowed! And I know you’re the queen of cusses” He smiled. 

  A girl came running up the stairs and towards us. 

She looked tired and her tight disco looking dress hugged her body like it can never be removed. 

“What are you doing here Jason! Your cake will be here soon, and you know you have to cut it come on!” she said and pulled Jason’s hand and start to drag him down the stairs. 

Jason turned to me. “come on Elsa!” he said with gestures. 

 I sighed and made it down the stairs, trailing behind Jason and his girlfriend I think. Cause they look like they’re probably dating. 

   

 The music stopped playing and I almost yelled  ‘Thank goodness’ but I didn’t, cause I didn’t want to Recieve awkward stares. 

 The lights in the living room went out and the girl who came to call Jason, his girlfriend, started to walk out of the kitchen with a big round cake that had a single candle at the top and her tiny voice starts to sing the happy birthday song. 

Wow such loving girlfriend. 

 Everyone joined the chorus and the lights slowly came back on and I saw Jason’s face holding the most exciting grin ever. 

 He watched as his girlfriend slowly carried the cake closer to him still singing the song. 

 When she got to him everyone stopped singing and she said, “Happy birthday Jay Jay.” 

 Jay Jay? It was cute it made me smile. 

“Now blow out the candle and make a wish!” His girlfriend ordered. 

“I know that!” Jason said with an eye roll and closed his eyes briefly before bowing out the candle. 

Such attitude with such a pretty face. 

Everyone clapped and the girl dropped the cake on the table in front of them and used a smile knife beside the table to cut a slice of cake for Jason. 

 “Now” she said, placing the piece of cake In a plate in Jason’s hand and giving him a fork. 

She started, “Okay now Jason, You will make a toast to anything or anyone according to the bites of this piece of cake.!” His girlfriend explained and he nodded with a smile. 

 

Everyone watched as Jason grabbed a small piece of the red velvet cake with his fork and raised it up. 

And with his loud deep voice he said. “Okay this bite is for my Mom, she’s the best, she’s the sweetest I love her and that’s just that!” Jason said and shoved the cake in his mouth making everyone yell and clap happily, I suddenly saw everyone looking up the stairs still clapping and I saw miss Huggins waving and smiling happily as they chanted her name, she smiled at her son. 

 Well Jason’s really sweet, dedicating his first bite to his mom. 

 The noise died down and everyone turned back to Jason, waiting for his second bite probably till the last bite. Jason stabbed the cake for his second bite and raised it up. 

“This second bite is for my two best buddy Simon and Donald, they’re both crazy, but I love them either ways!” Jason said and I think that’s Simon and Donald cause they both rushed him to give him a playfully punch for calling them crazy, and everyone laughed at their childishness. 

–

 Jason raised his third bite up and everyone quiet down, I think the last piece on the plate would be his last bite.   “This third bite actually is for, you Krystal” He said to his girlfriend and everyone said the “Ohhhhhhhhhh” teasingly in unison, and I laughed cause it was funny and Jason kind of felt flushed when that happened. 

 The Krystal of a girl couldn’t help her smile as Jason said. “You’ve always been there for me and I don’t know how to thank you enough!” 

“Thank her with a kiss!” one of Jason’s friend said and Jason stoned him a glare. 

 Everyone laughed and clapped at the same time and Krystal couldn’t help but blush at that. How sweet. Teenage love. 

 Jason should be quick, I’m actually feeling sleepy and would like to go home. 

 Jason raised the last bite on his fork and dropped the cake plate. 

And he began. “And for this last bite”  He looked around for a while and when his eyes met mine and then  he smiled. 

“This last bite Is for my teacher, miss Elsa” Jason said and everyone followed his eyes and turned to me… 

Oh okay!… 

“She’s really moody, she cusses me all the time, she calls me a butt head once, slapped the back of my head, reprimanded me a lot of times.” Jason said and everyone giggled as they looked back forth at Jason and I… Okay Jason’s actually making me look bad. Well I did all that too him, but he had his bide sides too! 

Jason continued anyway.  “But she’s the best, best teacher I’ve ever known, she’s very smart, helped me a lot and believe me when I say she’s very hot! And we love her” 

 I shut my my eyes and opened them back up. 

Jason is such a dumb head. 

 Everyone clapped and cheered for me as Jason took the cake in his mouth. 

 The music came back on and everyone starts to dance to their happiness and I walked away to the kitchen where they kept the drink. 

I took a bottle and walked away from the teenage crowd and to Jason’s room which was quiet and empty. 

 I sniffed the drink as I opened it and Immediately I knew the alcohol in it would be so much. But its okay I am able to hold my liquor. 

 I took one sip from the alcohol and I almost spit it back, it tasted horrible and it burned my throat and chest, I dropped the bottle and shook my head Negatively. Nope I’m not drinking that. 

   I stayed quiet in the room and wrapped my long skirt around my leg, enjoying the warmth of the room. 

  I was getting bored and sleepy at the same time, and so I decided to lay my head down on the desk and when I did lay my head down, I didn’t know when I fell asleep. 

*

*

           #JASON_POV 

. 

  I was honestly having the best time of my life, 

 I’ve had birthday parties like this every year, but this seems to be one of a kind, it was just different from others, maybe because we’re all growing up I guess. 

  It was nighttime and the house had become even more fuller, and I didn’t know when I had made so many friends like this. 

  I walked away from the dancing arena after partying with my friend and over to the counter full of drinks, to have at least one sip of the amazing and different alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks I’ve been eyeing from the dance floor. 

   I raised a glass and as I filled the glass with drink, someone tapped me from the shoulder making me turn. It was my friend Simon. 

“Oh Simon what are you doing here, I thought you were at the dance floor.!” I yelled over the music. 

“I can’t possibly stand and watch my best friend have fun with drinks without me!” he replied shoving his cup closer to me for me to fill it up. 

“Okay so I don’t know if you know this, but I think Krystal has a crush on you, I’m talking about massive crush here dude.” Simon said making me glance at Krystal. 

  Well Krystal is sweet we’ve come a long way as friends and she’s really caring and has got my back all the time. 

 

“Well I know that!” I shrugged at Simon as I filled his cup. 

“You do! Well do something about it!” Simon yelled. 

“Do what? About what? She has a crush on me that’s her problem I don’t have to do anything about it, Krystal is sweet and all but I don’t like her!” I said sincerely. And that was the truth. 

“Wow bro that’s harsh! And look at everyone thinking Krystal is your girlfriend, cause you guys looked great standing together” Simon said. 

“Thanks but no!” I smiled and took a big sip out of my drink before walking, I removed the golden sash my friends made me wear and threw it on the couch. 

 I looked around and paused, it’s been almost two hours and I haven’t seen Elsa. 

 Has she left? I thought! As I walked around the whole living room and finally made it up the stairs. 

 I walked passed the hallway and somehow I just felt like I should check my room and when I opened the door to my room and walked in, I found Elsa sitting comfortably on the chair behind my study desk and her head carefully placed in between her curved hands on the desk. As I got closer I saw that she was fast asleep and beside her head was a bottle of alcoholic drink that wasn’t looking friendly. 

 According to the bottle and how filled it was, she didn’t take much!. 

  So she came all the way here, to my eighteenth birthday party, to fall asleep. 

  I gently called her name and  tapped her on the shoulder twice and immediately her eyes fluttered open. 

Okay she’s a light sleeper that’s nice. 

“Jason?” she called as she sat up. “What are you doing here?” she asked. 

“Uhh,” I looked around. “This is my room!” 

She looked around too. “Oh I am very sorry” she apologized. Okay I think that will be the first time she will be apologizing. 

“No its okay, you seemed pretty deep in your sleep, so I woke up uo and wanted to let you know that you can totally crash on my bed if you’re really tired!” I said she sighed rolling her Hazel eyes. 

“I didn’t plan to fall asleep when I came, looks like I was really bored to death!” she ranted. 

“No kidding, and you decided to finish all that alcohol yourself?” I scoffed pointing to the bottle. 

“Yeah, I did and don’t worry I can hold my alcohol pretty well” She said standing up. 

 She almost lost her balance when she stood up but she sat down again…

“I’m really worn out!” she sighed. 

Worn out? 

I laughed. 

“Okay sorry for that, so do you mind, if we both share the drink?” I asked.

“Aren’t you supposed to downstairs jubilating with your friends, I mean it’s your birthday! And there are more of where this drink came from I bet!”. 

“Don’t you get the fact that I’m trying to keep you company since you’ve been bored!” I sighed. 

“Well that’s nice” she nodded. “But I don’t think I can stay and have a drink, it’s late!”. 

“Late? Seriously? It’s not! Just one stupid drink!” I huffed. 

“Okay fine, get the cups let’s get this drink over with.” She gestured with her hands and I walked to the cabinet beside my bed and took two glass cups. 

“And don’t pour too much drink on your cup, the day is not over yet so you’re not completely eighteen!” she ordered making me laugh…

 I did as she said, well she’s the boss! She’s older I know that, but she doesn’t act… No scratch that she acts older, way than her age but she doesn’t look older at all. And all my friends kept asking if she was really a teacher. 

I think she’s around twenty one or two. I’m not very sure. 

. 

T. B. C 

 Neil and i walked out of the huge restaurant and he led me to the car, I got the door myself and got in, while he got in the car too. 

  The drive home was quiet, we both didn’t say much and I was kind of sleepy too. 

  The date night was cool, I honestly enjoyed it. 

–

 Neil pulled over in front of my house and I could see the lights from my kitchen window on. 

  We both walked out of the car and he smiled at me. 

“Hope you had a wonderful night?” Neil started. 

“Yeah I had a great night” I said sincerely. 

“Okay so… Goodnight?” Neil smiled. 

“Yeah goodnight” I replied 

   I wanted to go inside cause I was freezing but Neil called me back. 

“Yes?” I replied politely. 

“Yeah so,” he begun and starts to rub his neck nervously.  “On Monday, so on Monday is my graduation and we get to invite friends and family, and honestly, you’re the only friend I’ve got!” he said. 

“For real?” I scoffed. 

“Yep.!” He said and I sighed. “Okay fine, I’ll be at your graduation but you’ll be the one picking me up” I tell him. 

“Of course, if I don’t, who will then?” he laughed. 

“Okay then Neil, I’ll see you on Monday?” I smiled and he nodded. 

“Thank you for tonight Elsa, good night and also have a wonderful night” He said and with one brief hug, his legs walked to this car and with one last smile and wave, he got into his car and drove away. 

 I covered my freezing body with my skinny hands, not like it covered anything though, and ran into the house. 

 My house was warm as always and the sweet smell of turkey filled the whole place. 

“Elsa is that you?” My mom asked as she heard the door close. 

“Yes it’s me!” I yelled.

“Youre just in time for our late dinner.” my mom said coming out of the kitchen. 

My mom paused seeing my outfit. 

“Oh no, it’s okay I’m already full.” I said.

“Did you go teaching, dressed like that?” she asked. 

I glanced down at my dress. “What? No am I crazy? I went on a date.” I said walking towards the couch and resting my butt down. 

“A date?” my mom’s voice was as curious as it was excited. 

“Yeah, with Neil!” I said. 

She knows Neil. 

“Neil? Neil? Who’s Neil?” 

“Neil? The guy you once called a very simple minded guy, who came home with me on time from school!” I recalled her memory and She gasped. 

“Oh you mean that Neil? Oh wow.! It’s been ages, so you’ve been in touch with him?” my mom asked. 

“No not really, I met him the night before yesterday, coincidently at the bus stop. We were both surprised seeing each other” I explained and my mom smiled. 

“You guys met the day before yesterday, and he already asked you out on a dinner date?” my mom sounded weird which made me laugh. 

“Yeah? What’s wrong with dinner dates?” 

“Nothing, I mean so quickly, don’t you think he likes you or something!” my mom smirked. 

“I don’t know mom” I stood up. “I’ll be in my room, it’s been one stressful day.” 

“Okay good night sweetie.” my mom said behind me and I nodded. 

. 

I brought my phone out from my bag and dropped my bag on the floor beside my bed. 

 I checked for any missed calls or messages but none. So I just dropped my phone. 

 I got up from my bed and removed the skimpy dress from my body. 

 I felt like I could breathe again, immediately the dress was off my body. 

 I made it to shower and spent almost an hour under the hot runny water…

**

 That night as I tucked myself under my blanket, my head buried in the pillow, my phone brought a message tone and I looked at the screen to see a goodnight message from Neil. 

 I smiled and texted him back before falling asleep. 

. 

  ‘The sun is surprisingly hot today’, I thought as I came down from my bed to check the time. 

 I gasped when I saw it was 1:3pm, wow did I really sleep that late? Was I really that stressed out yesterday?. 

 I breathed out a sigh of relief when I figured out I won’t be going to work today, but sighed when I remembered my jacket, I have to go get it. 

 That afternoon I ate the applejack cereal as brunch and after taking my bath and watching a little bit of modern television, I left the house and made my journey to the Huggins residence. 

*. 

 Thankfully the road was free Today, the bus wasn’t full and I made it in the Huggins residence in no time. 

 Mrs Huggins gasped seeing me walk into her living room. 

“No, you can’t work extra time. You get to work on weekdays, I don’t want you to get stressed out” Mrs Huggins said. 

“Uh no, I’m actually here for something else.” I tell her.

“Oh really?” she giggled. 

“Yeah” I replied. “I left my jacket here yesterday and I came to pick it up” I expound and she nodded.  “Right Jason told me about that, anyways you can go get it, Jason kept it waiting for you, he’s in his room” Mrs Huggins said and I nodded and made my way to Jason’s room. 

 I knocked on the big wooden door that leads to Jason’s room and I heard his voice saying. “Come in, it’s open.” from the inside. 

 I pushed the door opened and walked in, he was on his bed with a boy beside him with curly hair, they were both playing with their phones they didn’t even bother to look at whoever walked in until I said

“Hey Jason!” 

   Jason and his friend looked up immediately. 

 “Elsa! Wow can’t believe you’re here. Your jacket is over there, you can take it and leave, you’re welcome” Jason rushed his words and turned back to his phone. 

“Dude.” his friend nudged him. 

 I made it to his study desk and grabbed the jacket from the chair.

   I made it to the door but was stopped my Mrs Huggins who just walked inside. 

“Oh, I was about to leave!” I smiled at her. 

“But you just got here, why won’t you just stay for tea!” she offered. 

“No it’s okay!” I smiled about to walk pass her but she placed both hands on my shoulder and let out a friendly smile. “Please, you should know I don’t treat my guest in that harsh way and you’re more than a guest, you’re Jason’s private tutor for God’s sake.” Mrs Huggins said. 

“She’s the tutor?” I heard Jason’s friend whispered to him. 

“Okay then fine, but just tea, I have to go!” I smiled. 

“Now that’s the spirit!” Mrs Huggins said and led me out of Jason’s room and downstairs to the kitchen. 

And my jaw almost dropped. 

 This shouldn’t be just a kitchen, I couldn’t even describe what I was looking at, every stove, oven microwave, fridge, felt like another Level of technology, it was advanced and the kitchen island was to die for. 

  Mrs Huggins starts to brew tea on the counter and I just stood still with my jacket and bag on my body and watched her. 

 Each time she glanced at me, she throws me this heartwarming smile and I just nod lightly. 

 

And then she started a conversation. 

“So I heard you went on a date yesterday!” 

Okay that is kind of awkward to start a conversation. 

“Uhm…Yeah!” i replied. 

“Wow okay, I didn’t mean to pry, but I didn’t see you when you left yesterday and Jason said you left in a hurry cause you had a date.” Mrs Huggins beamed. 

Of course Jason! 

“Yep that is correct!” I nodded. 

“Oh okay, so you heard about Jason’s birthday party right?” Mrs Huggins asked and I nodded. 

“Well his dad will be flying back tomorrow just for his birthday!”. 

 I don’t understand why she’s telling me all this. But I’m listening, maybe she doesn’t want me to be bored watching her brew tea I’m not really in a mood to drink. 

“Looks like his birthday will be the talk of town,” I joked. 

“Not really, just a few of his friends and family members that’s all, we don’t like calling for attention” Mrs Huggins smiled. 

Her smile is really beautiful and you gst used to it quickly. 

“Oh okay!” I nodded. 

“So you’re coming right?” she smiled. 

I nodded. “Yeah of course, Jason told me about it, it’s on Tuesday right?”. 

 “Tuesday?” I heard Jason’s voice behind me and I turned to see him walking into the kitchen and heading for the fridge. 

“No silly” Mrs Huggins laughed. 

“My birthday is on Monday, wow! Do you have bad memory?” Jason teased. 

“Jason watch your tongue!” his mother threatened. 

“Anytime he says something like this next time, make sure to reprimand him!” Mrs Huggins huffed. 

“Mom you have no idea, how much more of reprimands I get in my room upstairs, I even got slapped in the head one time!” Jason said as he pulled out an apple canned drink from the fridge. 

 Mrs Huggins laughed. “Looks like miss Elsa, is not an easy person to deal with!” 

“She’s not, and she’s rude!” Jason said to his mom. 

“Anyways my birthday is on Monday, you can come if you want to and you can rest your butt home if you don’t want to.” Jason remarked. 

I rolled my eyes, and then paused. 

“On Monday?” I repeated. 

“Yeah I told you about it, what the hell? Did you forget already do you suffer from anterograde amnesia”. Jason tried to joke but got a glare from him mom. 

“Is anything wrong?” Mrs Huggins asked. 

Neil invited me to his graduation ceremony on Monday 

“On Monday… Uh I have a place I have to go.” I said. 

“On Monday? Where?” she asked. 

 It’s rude to tell Mrs Huggins this but she’s obviously prying in my business. 

“I have a graduation ceremony to attend.” I tell her with a sigh. 

“Your graduation?” she asked. 

“No a friend of mine, he’s graduating from college and I have to be there.” I said. 

“Oh okay” 

“Is it the guy you went out on a date with?” Jason asked. 

“And I don’t see why I should answer that.” I glared at him. 

“Well that proves your answer to be yes.!” Jason said. “Anyways mom just let her go to her boyfriend’s party, it’s like she’ll be doing anything for us here.” Jason added before leaving the kitchen. 

“Don’t mind his words.” Mrs Huggins pleaded. 

“Yeah I know” I shrugged. 

“I understand if you can’t make it here on Monday, but I really wanted you to be here.” Mrs Huggins sighed. 

Why? What does she want to do with me? 

 I finally had the tea with Mrs. Huggins like she wished for earlier and I found my way home. 

  In the bus I couldn’t help but think, Jason’s birthday or Neil’s graduation ceremony. 

. 

tbc

 

“So your address will be pretty helpful right now” Neil said as he opened the car door for me and I walked in. 

 He made a turn to the other side of the car and got in the driver’s seat. 

“Well my address is still the same.” I tell him as he got inside the car. He knows where I lives, he had followed me home once, we were both leaders of the student council back then in high school, though I was in grade eleven, I was still made president there. Neil had followed me home that day since the matters in our hand got too much, and we had to take it home. 

“Really?” He smiled. 

“Yep” I replied, what made him think I moved. 

“Okay well that’s great!” He said and before I knew it we were on the road. 

“So what were you doing out there?” Neil asked. 

“Like I said earlier I was waiting for the bus.” I replied. 

He laughed “Yeah I know, that is the bus stop anyways, I meant to say, why were you waiting for this, are you coming from somewhere?” 

“Oh… Yeah, yes I was coming back from work.” I said clutching my handbag. 

“Oh! Really, you work till this late?” he asked. 

“It’s a new job and it’s not that late.!” 

“What? It’s late it’s 8:45pm!” he exclaimed. 

“That’s because I missed the first bus and the second one took too long today” I explained. 

“Oh okay, but I still think it’s pretty late!” Neil said and I sighed, “If you think so, and you should be glad I’m late cause we wouldn’t have met each other if I didn’t miss the bus.” 

 Neil smiled. “You’re right, we wouldn’t, I mean I was just driving, I was so focused on the road, but I don’t know why, but I decided to look at the people waiting at the bus terminal, and under the lights, there you were, sitting on the waiting bench looking like Elsa, I was shocked at first doubting it wasn’t you, but then you sighed and looked at my car making me see your face even clearly and I couldn’t believe my eyes”. 

“Well that’s good to hear” I said. 

“So you said you just started the job, so can I ask what kind of job it is?” 

 Neil and questions. 

“I teach!” I said plainly. 

“Really? Wow!” he smiled. 

“Is it like a private tutor or you teach a whole-

“A private tutor!” I cut him off.

“Wow that is pretty nice!” Neil blurted and I smiled. 

“So how about you what do you do?” it’s time for my questions. 

“Oh” he smiled. “I help my dad run one of his small firm now!” 

Small firm.?? Is he crazy.! His dad own one of the biggest cosmetics industry and other firms too which I can’t even consider as small. And look at Neil calling it small. 

“Wow!” I smiled. 

His life is so great.  

 

 “So.? Are you in college?” I asked. 

“Oh, college, I’m actually going to be graduating next week! My graduation party is on the line!” he explained. 

 Oh wow! 

Wow! 

I’m jealous, I haven’t even smell the C in college nevertheless graduating. 

Neil is financially stable and working with his dad now, done with college. Wow. 

“Oh that’s good!” I giggled. 

“How about you, are you in college?” He asked. 

I hesitated “I am… not” I said and he glanced at me. 

“What? Why?” 

“Well just… Because of some personal reasons.” I sighed, I can’t tell him I’m not financially stable yet for college. 

“Oh okay!” he breathed out and we both remained quiet 

 He starts to ask me about other things that’s not related to my personal life though. 

  We both looked around and talked things we saw on our way and then it led to another subject and then another subject related to our high school days. 

 Finally Neil got in front of my house and I knew he wanted to get the door for me but I beat him to it. He smiled nervously as he got to me seeing I got the door myself. 

 “Okay Neil, thank you” I said, actually out of words.

“It’s no problem i am so glad I ran into you today, it’s been four years now and I have lost all contact with you, I thick Rick told me you moved, he said he once saw another family coming out from your house one day and since that day I assumed you moved, and forgot about me. But I’m glad you’re still here!” He grinned and I laughed thinking about the part where he said, another family coming out from my house. 

“Nope we are here to stay and not ready to leave anytime soon,” I giggled. 

“Well that’s great news!” Neil smiled. 

“Okay then, I’ll be leaving now” I sighed. 

“Before you go, can I get your contact, the first one is no more!” He laughed nervously. 

“Oh yeah, my phone got stolen” I replied and took his phone from him, which he gladly handed out, I typed in my number and gave it to me. 

“Okay thanks, at least we’ll be keeping in touch.” he smiled and I nodded. 

“Yeah,” 

“Okay good night Elsa, have a sweet night!” he said as he opened the car door and got in. 

“You too” And with a small wave I gave him, I saw his car driving out of the yard. 

*. 

 I laid on my bed and sighed heavily, oh Neil. Sweet as always. 

 I remembered when I used to crush on him back then, I think he noticed or I’m not sure, but that was then. 

  I got up from my bed and lazily went to take a hot bath. 

 My dad and I had dinner again that night and my mom already fell asleep early again. So which made my dad and I ate dinner together again. 

 That night as I dressed my bed I revieved a call. And it was Neil, he said he just called to tell me one more good night. 

And honestly that was nice of him,         I enjoyed his voice through the phone. 

 That night I slept soundly like a baby and I know it sounds weird but I kept hearing Neil’s voice saying good night

-*-

  The next day, I did my morning routine and found myself watching TV and I think the movie I was watch was so boring, I fell asleep. 

  Thankfully I woke up in time to get ready for my job and by three, I found myself at the Huggins residence. 

Getting used to this house already. 

 I walked in the living room and I heard Mrs Huggins sweet voice called out to my name and I turned to her to pour out my greetings. 

 She told me Jason was in his room and asked me about the lesson, I told her it was going great and how Jason has been listening and doing better, even far more than better. 

  I got to Jason’s room and I found him seated behind the desk and playing with his phone. 

“Hey Jason.” I called for his attention when I closed his door. 

“You’re here!” he said disappointed. 

 I rolled my eyes and walked up to him. 

“A little good afternoon would have been nice.” I said as I dropped my bag on his desk. 

“Good morning” he said to irk me. 

“Well as long as there is a ‘good’ at the beginning, it’s a good start”. I smiled and pulled out my books and dropped it in front of him. 

 I brought out everything but he didn’t make a phone to learn which made me grab his phone from his hand. 

He wanted to protest about his phone but with one horrifying glare for me, he sighed and grabbed his pen.

 I started on a topic as always explained it to him and I can’t believe this, like what am I doing here!? Well I’m here for the money but Jason is seriously smart. His smart ass made it easier for the both of us as we made it to the next question in no time. 

 We made it to the most difficult questions which made Jason stop to think for some time before writing it down and all in conclusion, he got the answers correctly.

 Jason was attempting to a question which I just explained when my phone starts to ring and I suddenly had second thoughts about changing my ringtone. 

 I picked up my phone and said a little hello and was glad when Jason paid no attention to me. 

“HI Elsa.” I heard Neil’s voice. 

“Oh, Neil, hi how are you?” I replied, wow! 

He called again. 

“I’m great, how are you doing this fun evening!” he asked. 

“Not fun for me but it’s okay!” I giggled. 

“Oh well as for me I just took a break off to call you, just wanted to know how you’re doing.” 

“I’m working now and I’m fine.” I smiled. 

“Good to hear, so how about your student is he or she complying with you?” Neil asked. 

“Well…” I looked at Jason. “He is complying lately, thankfully” I said 

“Oh okay” Neil was quiet for a brief moment before saying. 

“So Elsa I’ve been wondering if you would like to have dinner with me sometime.” Neil said. 

“Dinner? I don’t really have time to make show up at dinners cause I leave here at seven pm.” I said. 

“Like not just a regular dinner, A date dinner. Or is that too soon?” he laughed, I could feel the nervousness in his voice. 

 

“No it’s okay, The idea of date night isn’t that bad!” I tell him. 

“Oh thank God!” he breathed a sigh of relief. 

“So when should be the date, when do you think it’s best to go on this date!” He asked. 

“Uhm… Tomorrow?” I said. 

“Wow! Okay tomorrow isn’t that bad.!” He said. 

Jason turned to me, and I guess he was done. 

“Okay then tomorrow it is!” I said. 

“Okay have a great day!”.

“You too” 

 I ended the call. 

“Your boyfriend?” Jason smirked. 

“Mind your business and pass me your book!” I said and he rolled his eyes and handed me his book for me to check his work. 

“I was just asking a simple question” Jason scoffed. 

“Okay fine he’s not my boyfriend. Satisfied?” I huffed. 

“So you guys are going on a date tomorrow?” Jason asked inquisitively. 

“Seriously, are you going to question me now?” I sighed. 

“It’s just a simple question.”

“you heard the whole phone call, now just shut up and let me focus.” I huffed and turned to his book, to see all his answers wrong. 

“You failed it all! I’m disappointed in you!” I said slamming the book on the desk. 

“Being disappointed in me doesn’t change anything, now explain the question again” Jason said and I felt like slapping the back of his head and I actually did. 

“Ouch!” he said 

“Don’t order me around.” I yelled. 

“I just said explain the question I didn’t order you!” he yelled back. 

“Then how come your question sound like a command?” I blurted. 

“Probably because you imagined it that way, my parents haven’t hit me like this before who are you to–.

 I believed my glare stopped him from completing his sentence. 

“Now let’s continue with our work!” I said and he sighed with his normal annoying eye roll. 

“Now focus!” I said as I dragged my chair closer to his and grabbed his pen. 

“Can you ever stop yelling!” He scoffed.

.

T. B. C