"Ms. Daniels, glad you could join us. I'm Detective Harold and I assume you know Brett."

The lady who accompanied me closed the door behind me and left.

"Have a seat," Detective Harold continued.

"Um, yes, I do know Brett," I said, sitting down.

Brett was handcuffed and he sat quietly in his seat. I looked over at him but his head was down and he didn't look up once.

"What would you say about your relationship with Brett?" the detective asked.

"Umm, I'm sorry. I still have no idea why I'm here."

"Your friend Brett here has been dealing with drugs in and out of the bar he's been working in. I hear you go there often."

"And this has something to do with me?"

"According to him, it has everything to do with you."

"Excuse me?"

"You know the name of the drug dealer Brett's been getting from. You're know his contact, where he lives and you even went out with him."

"Are you accusing me?"

"Are you trying to avoid my questions?"

"Questions? They were more like statements. Look, I didn't know that Brett has been dealing with drugs are whatever nonsense. So what?"

"So what? The drug dealer he's been dealing with has been raping and murdering girls all over Europe and now he's in my town. I will not rest my head until he is caught."

I turned to look at Brett. His head was still down.

"Give me a few moments with him," I said, nodding towards Brett.

"Fine." He sighed and left the room. I went over to Brett.

"Drugs Brett? You couldn't keep it more secretive?"

Okay, yes I knew that Brett has been dealing with drugs in and out of the bar. Yes, I know the dealer. Yes, I know his contact and where he lives. Yes, I went out with him ONCE. But that was a long time ago. Okay maybe not that long, it was late last year. But how was I supposed to know he was rapist and a murderer?! Yes, he's a drug dealer. Okay, I was stupid before.

"Brett come on! Why am I involved in this shit?!"

He finally looked up.

"Damn it because you're the cause!"

"Oh so I'm the cause now. Tell me, what did I do?"

"You introduced him to me."

"I introduced him not drugs to you! You did that on your own."

"Just tell him the damn name of the dealer."

"Don't you know it?"

Brett kept silent.

"You want me in trouble don't you?"

"If I get into trouble, you bloody hell should too!"

"I'm not who I was before."

"You're no different. I see you now and I still see the bitchy slut I know."

"I want out. You figure some way, I am not involved in any kind and you know it. All I did was introduce you my date that night. I knew he was a drug dealer but that was my problem."

"You got drugs from him too, that part makes you as involved as I am."

"Find a way out yourself. Don't you dare put me in. You know I have connections."

"You'd rather me go to jail?"

I ignored him and walked out of the room.

"Detective Harold? I'm sorry I don't have that kind of information you want from me. You're gonna have to push Brett to find out. I am not who you're looking for."

"So you're telling me you don't know this dealer?"

"No."

I smiled and left the station. God okay I know, I lied! But that was in my past. New Casey remember? I don't want in on anything. That was my past and it's forgotten. Starting now.

First things first, I have to find Billy! I went to the workshop he works and fortunately, he was
there. I'm just gonna come right out and say what I feel. I stepped in front of him.

"Do want this baby or not? I want it, I really do. I don't care about anything else."

Before I knew it, he kissed me. Passionately. And I liked it all the more.

****


The next morning was a whole new day. I decided to go back to school. I would go see Mrs. Goy and ask her to take me back. Okay, the proper term is beg. I know she wouldn't take me back after all the troubles I caused but I'm hoping she would.

Billy and I walked to school together this morning. I couldn't stop myself from turning and smiling at him every single second. We would occasionally stop walking and kiss. I kinda think we're a couple. Well, it's not official or anything.

"Hey, good luck."

"Oh, we're here. Yeah, thanks, I'll need it."

He gave one last peck and left. I gathered all the courage I had left in me and continued my way to the principal's office.

"Excuse me, Ms. Daniels? What are you doing here?"

"I'm here to see Mrs. Goy. Could you arrange an appointment for me?"

"Oh, err, oh...okay."

"Thanks."

"You could actually go in now."

"Oh, that's great. Yeah."

I followed the secretary into Mrs. Goy's office.

"Excuse me, Mrs. Goy, Casey Daniels is here to see you."

"Hi." She shut the door behind me and left me to explain myself.

"Ms. Daniels. A surprise."

"Yes." I just kept standing there.

"You can sit, you know." And so I sat.

"What brings you here? I'm proud to say that after I expelled you, things have been going well."

Bitch, I thought.

"So here's the thing. I want back in Sunny Dale High. I promise you, I've changed."

"And what makes me believe you that you've changed?"

"Put me back in, then you'll see."

"Why should I take that risk?"


***

I'M BACK IN SUNNY DALE HIGH! Somehow or rather I managed to convince Mrs. Goy to let me back in. I can't wait to tell Mims and Sophie and Billy about this! They're going to be so thrilled! I was so deep in my thoughts that I accidently hit someone.

"Oh, sorry!"

"Casey?"

"Eric!"

"Minnie."

"Huh.. Is that, is that you Ashton?" i asked in disbelief.

He walked closer towards me and held my hand. It was him.

"You're failing Algebra?"

"Yea- How did you know about it?"

"Minnie, you never fail. You're good in Math." he smiled.

"I didn't bother to concentrate during classes. I just couldn't.. I kept thinking of you. You were in my thoughts, all this while. Nothing else really matters now anyway.." i held his hand tighter but i could feel his fingers, trying to separate from mine. And the next thing i knew, he disappeared.

"Ashton?"

"I know you can do better than this. Make me proud, dear." a voice from nowhere could be heard.

Fuck. It's all a dream.

I woke up in the middle of the night and turned the lights on. It was only 5 in the morning and i knew i couldn't doze off to sleep that easily anymore. I walked to my dressing table and looked at my reflection on the mirror. I gasped. My hair's in a total mess and my make-up wasn't removed. I must have been really tired after the party.

I walked to my bathroom and turned the tap on. I washed my face and i felt all clean and fresh again. That's more like it! I took a towel and walked down the stairs, to the kitchen. I could see, it was drizzling outside. Ah, coldness. I've always hated cold weather. Like, winter for example. I hate it. I hate snowballs. I hate it when someone throws it at me. Bottom line, i hate snow.

I made myself a sandwich and was about to walk to the living room when mum showed up in the kitchen too. And, she looked terrible.

"Mum, are you alright?" i questioned.

She walked past me as if i was invisible. What was that about?

I left mum alone in the kitchen and sat down on the sofa in the living room. I was happily munching on my sandwich when suddenly, i could hear water dripping. I rushed to the kitchen in panic and come to think of it now, i thought my mother was peeing. But no, instead i was shocked to find mum, continuously pouring low-fat milk into her mug and she didn't stop pouring. She looked lost, as though, she was in another world.

"Mum, you can stop pouring now. We'll run out of milk soon." i teased and grabbed her hand. Ouch. It was way colder than ice.

"Mum, why is your hand cold?" i asked in a serious tone.

"What? No no, i'm fine." she looked blur. I guess she really did was thinking of something else.

"Is there something wrong?" i waved my hand in front of her like some dummy. "Do you need to see the doctor? You look really pale and sick.."

"I'm OK, darling. Now, if you'll excuse me." she pushed my hand away and walked back into her room with her cup of milk.

That was really weird.

****

I'm starting to hate school now.

History class has never fail to bore me ever since the day i stepped into Sunny Dale High. Back then, sure, i had friends to talk to, i had someone to pass notes with, i had someone.. to think of. But now, look at me. All i see is anti-social Minnie. No one's talking to me now. Max and the rest had officially ignored me. They've forgotten all about me and they're not even looking at me.

I'm friendless.

Er, though, i did try to make conversation with this girl next to me. She looked nice.

"Hi," i said.

She looked at me in disguise then dragged her table further away from me. To make things even worse, i could hear a group of people from the back, laughing silently.

God, am i really that bad?

"Minnie, stop talking." Mr Gabe warned.

"But i wasn't.."

"I'm not deaf, Minnie. We all know, your voice's the loudest among all these students around here. So keep that mouth shut and do your work." he said firmly.

"It was-"

"Ab-tat-tat-tat-ta. Say another word and i'll send you to detention."

The students started laughing again as soon as he turned his back to us. The noises of the chatter went on and on, from the back of the class. I turned back just so i could ask them to keep their voices low and that's when..

"Minnie!" Mr Gabe yelled and took off his reading glasses, "How many times must i say-"

"It wasn't me, fucker!" i raised my voice and stood up.

Harsh move, Minnie. Now, everyone's looking at you. Even, Sarah the nerd geek, has stopped playing with her hair. I must admit, that was really annoying. I felt like pulling her hair off so she can just be bald instead. Esh.

The class was pin-drop silent and the situation was really tensed up. I felt like throwing up anytime now. According to my instincts, i knew exactly what to do at that time. Besides, i can't just sit back down and pretended nothing has just happen right?

"Don't even say it. I know where i'll have to go."

"Detention plus a visit to the principal's office." he wrote me a slip and i stared at it, palms sweating. I've never been sent to a principal's office before. Weakly, i took my bag and walked out of class.

"No, Mr Gabe. You can't do that." a guy voice said.

I stopped walking and looked back to see Max, standing up to fight for my rights. I smiled at him to thank him but he didn't smile back.

"Well well well, what do we have here? A friend trying to help. Now you both will go detention. Out of my class!" he pointed to the door and we had no choice but to walk out.

While walking down the hallway, i could feel my heart beating really fast. I was sweating too. At the corner of my eye, i could see Max, walking like a normal human being. What the hell. Why was i even thinking that he's going to forgive me anyway? I knew he wouldn't. Of course i knew.

"I'll accompany you to the office." he said without looking at me.

"You don't have to if you-"

"No, i want to."

"Okay.. if you insist." i mumbled.

I knocked on the door and Mrs Goy said, "Come in."

As i was about to open the door, Max grabbed my arm and said coolly, "Hey, don't be too nervous alright?"

I smiled awkwardly back and closed the door behind me. As usual, Mrs Goy gave her little lecture and i nodded my head obediently like every 1 minute. But what she didn't know was, my mind was too busy replaying that scene over and over again.

That scene when Max had just talk to me. Fine, he didn't really talk to me but he did say something to me! So it must mean something, no?

"Minnie, do you understand what i've just said?"

I nodded my head.

"Okay, you can go now. You and your friend can skip this detention. I'll inform the teachers. But, i'm warning you. The next time, i see you here, i'll have to call your parents."

I nodded my head again and opened the door widely. Max was still waiting for me outside the office while messaging someone with his iPhone. He didn't even realize i was standing in front of him for the past 5 minutes. It's nice staring at him sometimes.

Finally, i cleared my throat and he stopped playing with his gadget.

"Erm, no detentions for us so we can go now."

"Okay then." He walked off without a smile and i was left, standing alone in the hallway.

Am i going to save this friendship? Am i going to be the one who's going to make the first move? Wait, i don't even know what i did wrong to deserve being treated this way. There must be some misunderstandings. I know it. We just have to talk. But how? Am i really going to say it?

Say it, Minnie.

"Hey, look!" i said before he made that turn at the end of the hallway, "Can we talk? Please?"

He stopped walking and turned back to look at me.

"What for?"

"If you refuse to, i don't think i'll ever forgive myself for losing a friend like you without knowing the reason for it."

There was a brief silence before he finally agreed and said, "8 o'clock, my place." And as soon as he was gone, i can't help but to have my hopes a little higher than before. I'm going to sort things out. Tonight.

"BRRRIIINNNNNNNGGG ! "

Shit . The alarm . Damn it . It's time for school . Alyssa woke up and turned off the alarm , and went back to sleep . I woke up , and went to the toilet . Yeah , messy look . I washed my face , and take a look at the mirror . I brushed my teeth , and combed my hair .

" Alyssa ! It's time for schoooollll ! " I shouted inside the toilet .

I heard no reply , but I didn't care . I just went to bath , and started humming to the favourite song of mine .

When I was done , Alyssa was still sleeping . I went to her , and pulled her blanket away .

" ALYSSA ! It's time for school ! " I swear i shouted on the top of my lungs .

" Hm ? " Alyssa replied with a soft tone . Her face was all red , and plenty of red dots were on her face .

" OMG ! Alyssa , what's wrong ? Your face ! "

" What ?! What ?! My face ? What's wrong ? " She grab a mirror , next to her , and took a look .

" AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH ! " Alyssa screamt .

Aunty Christine , Mum and Dad rushed up , and opened the door .

" What happen ? " Aunty Christine asked .

" MUM ! MY FACE !! " Alyssa shouted .

Four of us , were just plain shocked on what's going on with her face . Obviously , Alyssa , herself , was plain shocked as well . All of us started to worry and panic . We had no idea on what to do , or any thing that could help Alyssa .

" Why not .. I get you some ice ? That will help right ? " Mum said . Trying to help around .

" MUM ! She didn't injure herself , the dots just popped out . So , ice wouldn't help . "

" Right . Oh , Christine , why not bring her to the doctor ? Quick ! "

" Good idea. Come , let's go to the doctor , hun . " Aunty Christine carried Alyssa up from the bed , but Alyssa was to weak to walk .

" But mum ! I want to go to school ! " Alyssa dragged her feets to the closet , and picked some clothes out .

" No , you can't . How are you going to go to school with the red dots ? Soph , tell your teacher that Alyssa's not feeling well . "

" Err , Alright . I'm going to go now , or i'll be late . Bye Al , take care , love all of you . "

I ran out of the room , and i could hear dad speaking to me , but I just ignored him and went straight to the door . I bet he'll ask if Trace's downstairs or whatever . Gosh , when will he ever stop . Right , speaking of Trace . Why isn't he here to pick me up ? Is he like mad that I didn't accept him ? Oh dear .

I walked to school , and .. I'm obviously late . Shit . I quickly ran to the locker , grab my books and head for English class .

" Soorry I'm late . "

Apparently , teacher isn't here , and the whole class stopped what they're doing and looked at me . All of them were busy talking , some were even throwing balls . Thank god , i'm not that late . Serene waved at me , and i went to her .

" Hi guys . " I sat in between Serene and Johnny .

I just love Serene and Johnny because they always save me a seat no matter what . This is what I call true friends . Sometimes , I do feel bad , as I seldom hangout with them .

" Why are you so late ? " Johnny asked .

" Alyssa is sick , so yeah . We had to figure what's wrong with her . By the way , have you seen Trace ? "

" No . Oh , did you hear that Trace is together with Catherine ? "

" Wwwwwhhat ?! Trace is together with HER ?! " I shouted , and pointed at Catherine who's 5 tables away from us .

" Yeah , okay Sophie . Lower down your voice . " Johnny pat my shoulder , he sure know how i'm feeling .

" No wait , this can't be . "

I quickly took out my phone and text Trace .

To Trace

: You're together with Catherine ? Tell me , this ain't true . Please .

From Sophie .

I was feeling so stressed out . It feels like , I just got ripped off . Trace just said he like me , not long ago , and now he's together with Catherine ? The point is , his girlfriend is Catherine . If it was other girls , I wouldn't mind . But , hey , is that bitch .

Suddenly , the headmaster came in and all of us kept quite . It was pin drop silence .

" Your English teacher is ill today . She's not coming , so it's a free period now . "

After leaving the message , she walked out , and continue to walk around the school . Everyone packed their bag and leave the class .

" Urgh , this can't be happening . Trace is not together with Catherine . " I mumbled to myself .

As I was walking out from the class , I felt as though my head is so heavy that I could hardly walk . My sight is all blurred out , and all i can see , is my vision spinning round and round . Then I just passed out . Before I fainted , I could here a voice next to my ear , shouting for my name . That voice was very familiar .

What the hell did I just say?! Now Sophie was glaring at me. I'm dead.

"Okaaay. Well, I'm gonna go." She patted me on the back and left.

Billy just stared. Nobody moved, nobody said a word. Why did he have to come home at this time of a day?

I cleared my throat. "So, what'd you do today?"

"Is there something you want to tell me, Casey?" he asked.

"What? No, no....," I paused ,"Yes."

"Let me guess. You think you're pregnant cause you did the pregnancy test. And you told me that Sophie's pregnant because you didn't want to freak me out. Did I get that right?"

"How..Yes." I sat down.

"Look, it's pretty obvious. And I'm not all that freaked out."

"You're not freaked out?! How the hell is this possible?" I stood up again. "I'm scared. Aren't you?"

"Yeah, I am, Casey. But I'm supposed to be the guy. I can't be scared. I'll be there."

"See that's the thing. There's something I didn't tell you."

"Now's a good time to tell me."

"That night, when err .. when I got back.. I got back from Eric's... and err..."

"You did it with him."

"Billy, I didn't mean to .." The door slammed. "YOU SAID YOU'D BE THERE!" I screamed, but it was too late. I don't think he even heard me anymore.

That's it. I'm so sick of all the hiding. I'm so sick of being a whore. I have a baby now. I felt my stomach. There's something inside of me. And I'm gonna keep it. I don't care what they all say. I don't give a shit what they all think. I don't give a fuck, whatever!

****

I woke up the next morning. Man, this feels weird knowing there's something growing inside me. Since I haven't told Mims anything about this yet, I decided to call her.

"Mims, can we meet up?"

I thought it would be nice if I went over to her house. I haven't been there in a long time.

"Hey, come on in," she said, gesturing me to come in.

I stepped in. Kinda feels like home. We went up to her room and lied on the bed, just like old times when I was here for a sleepover and we couldn't sleep so we would talk and talk until then sun came up the next morning.

"What's up?"

"I guess Sophie didn't tell you yet huh?"

"Tell me what?" she asked curiously.

"Well it's really nothing, except... I'm pregnant."

"NOTHING?! YOU CALL THAT NOTHING?! CASEY!"

I told her beginning to end from Sophie coming over to Billy running out on me.

"Are you okay?" she asked.

"Yeah. I mean am I fucked up that this happened? Yes. But did I regret doing it? No, not really. I don't know what I should do or feel. I'll figure it out sooner or later."

"You will, Casey." She nodded encouragingly.

"Thanks. Hey, I'll talk to you soon. I have to go somewhere."

"Okay, sure. Keep me updated. You know I'm here."

"I will."

We hugged goodbye and I left. I stopped at the bus stop nearby and sat. Well I obviously lied, I don't have anywhere to go. I could go to the doctor's but.. do I need to pay for examination or something? I wouldn't want to go alone anyway. Damn, I suck at this. I barely even know anything. I don't even know how to go to the nearest hospital. I don't even know what's it called! I laughed out loud. No one was around me so I didn't really care that much. Wait, even if someone was around me I don't care. He'll probably think I'm psychopath but who the fuck cares! I'm having a baby. A little boy, or a girl.

I feel different. This is the new Casey. She's going to be responsible, caring and honest. Okay, I haven't been very honest lately. White lies are fine.

My phone buzzed. I didn't know who it was but I picked up anyway.

"Hello?"

"Ms. Casey Daniels?" A rough, male voice replied.

"Yeah?"

"I need you to come down to the police station now. It's an emergency."

"Excuse me? Did I do something wrong?"

"Apparently so. We need you here now."

"Could you explain what I did?"

"We will as soon as you're here."

"Okay, I'm on my way."

Duh! Obviously I know where the police station is! I've been there like a thousand times. I used to get caught for drug usage in school or vandalising public property. Stuff like that, but of course in the end, they couldn't press charges, I was good at cover up. I smiled. Wow, now that I think about, I was pretty good. Sure I got caught but nothing ever happened.

Okay, focus. New Casey.

I knew it would take too long to walk so I took a cab and arrived there in minutes. I walked to the counter.

"Hi, I'm Casey Daniels."

"Ah, Ms. Daniels. Follow me."

I wondered if I did anything wrong.

When I arrived at a small room I saw a figure.. and I soon got to recognise him.

BRETT?!

What the hell is he up to?


I woke up due to the noises of what it seemed to be, renovation works.

I rubbed my head and looked around the room. White walls, really, really bright room..

Hold on.

"This isn't my house." i thought. I wasn't in my room.

It wasn't Billy's apartment too.

But it.. looked familiar to me. It definitely did.

"Where am i.. Where am.. Fuck, i know this place. But where?" i whispered to myself.

I got up from the couch and walked around the room. My head still hurt but i was feeling fine. I could tell, that must be the living room. There wasn't any bed in sight. I must say, this is a really clean place to live in! Compare to Billy's, this is like 100 times better. I wonder who lives here?

Who was i with before this again?

There were a few photo frames hung up on the wall and i managed to get a closer look. There was a photo of two boys holding a trophy together, another photo of a boy with an older woman (must be the mother), another photo of a little boy, crying because his ice cream fell off the cone (which was funny), another photo of a guy posing with Jason Mraz yadda yadda this is getting boring..

Oh look! There's another photo of..

I froze with fear.

I couldn't take my eyes off that photo.

There was a couple in that photo, smiling happily for the camera. The girl had long, wavy, hair with side-parting and there she was, holding a bouquet of roses and putting her other arm around the guy's waist. I know that guy. I can't mistake him for any other guy.

"I see you've met Hanna." a voice surprised me from the back and i jumped in fright.

I nodded my head and said, "She looks happy with.. with him. By the way, did i really pass out just now?"

"Well," he gave a small laugh, "Apparently, you did and i had to send you back here for a while. My girlfriend's at my place so i don't think it's convenient. Sorry." He smiled.

Right, his girlfriend. How could i forget that?

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to.."

"Nah, it's OK. I informed her that i'll be home late tonight so no worries!"

Shit.

"What time is it?"

"7 in the evening. Why? Are you in a hurry to get to somewhere?"

"Ye.. Yeah. Wait, i have to make this call really quick." Unsurprisingly, my phone was filled with Nate's messages. I dialled his number quickly and waited for him to pick it up.

"Hello?"

"It's me. Listen, i'm sorry i didn't reply you. Long story but i'll tell you when i see you. I'm at Ashton's apartment now. Where's the party? I don't want to miss this reunion, you know."

"Ashton's apartment? Wait there, i'll come in a few minutes."

"Thanks, see ya."

I placed my cellphone on the coffee table so i'd know when he's calling. There was a moment of silence in the room. Okay.. This is getting weird. I should say something.

"Can i-"

"So are you-"

We both spoke at the same time.

I giggled and said, "You go first. Mine's not really important."

"So.. Are you feeling better? Oh, drink that. It's something i've made for you. It's special!" he pointed at the mug on the coffee table.

I took a sip and exclaimed, "GOD! This is good stuff!" i continued drinking the rest of it, "What is this? It's.. it's sweet but not too sweet at the same time.. It has this really unique taste. Like like.. It's like.. champange! But, of course, it isn't.. I've never drink anything like this in my entire life. Gee, thanks!"

"I knew you'd like this-"

"STRAWBERRY! Yes, it tastes like strawberry too! Mike, you really have to tell me what's this." i took another sip.

"I call it, Alcoton."

"What?! That is the lamest name i've ever heard!" i laughed.

"Ashton suggested that. I mean, i wanted Trivas instead."

"Trivas. That's a nice one. We shall call it Trivas then." i finished the drink within seconds.

"You really think so?"

"Yes, and i know the perfect snack to go along with this drink too. Toast!"

"Toast?"

"Bread, toast. Come on, let's try it now! Where's the kitchen? Oh, i remember where!" I was about to skip happily into the kitchen when Mike grabbed my hand and stopped me.

"No, no. It's Ok. Funny, i've thought of that before. Toast with this drink. And i think it tasted good." he smiled.

"Really?"

"Yeah. I told Ashton about it but he said the drink was better without it." he sighed and walked to the other side of the room.

"How's he doing?"

"What?" he turned back to look at me.

"Is he really back with Hanna?" i asked.

"He's out of his mind to get back with her!" he shouted furiously.

I was really shocked on how he would react. I see, i wasn't the only one who would miss Ashton's presence around here.

"She can't be trusted and she's hurt him for the millionth time, and now i have a feeling, she's going to hurt him again. Ashton's my best friend and it's really saddening to see him, getting hurt every single time when he's done nothing wrong." he blurted everything out.

"Hurt him? How could she do that to him? Doesn't she know, he loves her?"

"He doesn't."

"What?"

"He doesn't love her." he repeated.

"But how-"

"It's really complicating. I'm.. I'm not suppose to say anything about this." he cut me off and looked down.

Why can't he tell me? Is it really that confidential?

"Sure," i said calmly, "It's his secrets. I have not rights to know anything about him."

"No, it's not that. Minnie, it's more complicated than you think it is."

"Then tell me. I can keep secrets." i said convincingly.

"I.. I.." he paused. "I can't." he sighed.

Fine. Whatever.

There's another moment of silence in this room and to be honest, i was getting sick of this conversation. I should make an escape.

"Minnie.."

I turned back to see Mike again, standing near the curtains.

"You're going to tell me?"

"The truth is-"

Suddenly, my phone rang and Mike stopped talking too. Damnit, i should have just put it on silent mode and shoved it in my pocket.

"Hello? You're here? Alright, give me a sec."

I grabbed my bag and gave a last look to Mike.

"I'll get going. Thanks for today. It's been nice meeting you."

"Yeah," he smiled. "I'll contact you soon."

He walked me down the creepy stairs and he promised to talk to me right after the party or something. Either way, we'll stay in touch no matter what. You know, i wouldn't mind if he'd stop contacting me. I don't wish to hear anymore about Ashton.

In fact, i want him out of my life instantly.

I walked to the car and didn't even dare to look at Nate. He's acting all cool and stoned. Whatever, i don't give any shits. If he wants to talk to me, he will.

I switched the radio on and there were a few songs playing which got me emotional but it did describe the way i was feeling at that time. Like, wth much? Even the radio knew what i was facing through.

"So, if you have any problems, you can call us and talk to us! The number is, 9092139204. I repeat, the number to dial is, 9092139204!" the dj said.

Obviously, i didn't call them up. That would make me sound so stupid.

Finally, it felt like forever, we reached the house without saying anything in the car. We kept quiet the whole time, i think he was still mad at me. He parked his car at the roadside and i could feel my heart beating, faster than ever.

"Spill it."

I looked at him and he still had his hands on the steering wheel, his eyes not meeting mine.

Great. Just when i thought i could finally put Ashton aside, here we have, Nate, asking me what's happened. I hate him.

"Er.. It's really hard to say. I don't think you'd believe me either. Can we not talk about it? Please?"

"You promised to tell-"

"I KNOW WHAT I PROMISED!" i yelled. Nate finally turned to look at me but i didn't bother holding back. I couldn't control myself any longer.

"And, i know, when someone promises they would never leave you, would never do anything to hurt you.. You know, deep inside, he tries so hard to keep that promise. And you play your role, believe he would never break that promise. You knew he wouldn't forget those promises he made. All of them." i sniffed and continued my little speech. Oh wtf -

"But now.. I believe, promises are for fucks. No one means it. They're all meant to be broken. I guess i got my hopes a little too high." i sniffed again and was desperate for a tissue. I looked around the car but there wasn't any box. How can he not keep tissues in here?

"I don't get you Minnie. Are you alright?"

"No, i'm not." i said, sobbing. "But i will be. I just need more time. Come on, let's get in. I'll tell you later. Crap, i need a tissue."

He laughed softly and we both head into the house. I told myself for the last time, i'm not going to be sad this evening. For the sake of this party, i'm going to enjoy myself and try to put my problems aside. Gosh, who knows? I might find another hottie in here.

Like what i was expecting, the house was crowded and there were a few familiar faces too. Oh joy! So many people, so many names. I don't remember their names, but i sure remember who they are!

God, why is Nate dragging me to the corner?

"Let me go!"

"You've got some explaining to do." Nate said without looking at me.

"Fuck, can't you ask me after the party?"

"I want to know what's happening, and i want to know now."

I took a sip of iced water slowly and thought of the right words to say. The truth was i didn't want to say anything at all. I wanted to enjoy this party, why can't he ask me after this? Why?! I wished i was mute instead.

Ugh, why does he have to stare at me like that? Does he know what i'm thinking? Oh no.

Stop staring at me fuck.

There's only one sentence i could think of at that moment.

"I'm fine, really."

"Yo, you think ima fall for that? You have cuts on your hands. Both of them." he took my hand and turned them over, "And, what happened in the car? What was that all about?"

I took a deep breath and asked, "You really want to know what's going on? You really do want to know?"

"Yes. Besides, you can't keep secrets from me for long."

There was a long pause before i started telling him about the problem. I prepared myself to meet his reaction and took a deep breath again.

"Okay! I give up. It's.."

"About Ashton isn't it?" he interrupted.

"Fuck how did you know about it?!"

"I know you more than you think okay."

I sighed.

"He left me, two weeks ago. And i was alright. I never bothered and i kept telling myself, i have no feelings for him or whatsoever. I did not fall in love with him, i reminded myself." Tears were falling onto my cheeks as i said those words. "Now, he's leaving me again. Forever, Nate. I don't think i can do this. Ever since his friend told me about this, i couldn't stop thinking of.... him."

"Hi!" a voice surprised us from the back.

"Chels, hey!" Nate hugged her and kissed both sides of her cheeks. That's it. He's going to forget that i was even here and start blabbing things to this..

"OH MY GOD IT'S YOU CHELS!" i couldn't help raising my voice.

"Minnie!" she gave a tiny scream and hugged me, "It's been a while. How are you? And, gosh, are you crying?" she looks down at me and patted my shoulder. "There, there, everything's OK. Are the lights too bright for you?"

"What? No, no. I'm alright. Nate made me cry." i teased.

"You're putting the blame on me?!" he replied and we started laughing.

"The last time i saw you, Minnie, you were crying too. Jackson bullied you, remember?"

"Oh lord, don't remind me." Feeling a little embarrassed about the past, i took another sip of iced water.

"Minnie's a little emotional tonight. And, no this has nothing to do with me! Chels, will you be a darling and show her around? I wanna talk to Ben for a while."

"Who's Ben? Wait, isn't that the fatty who used to like you?" i looked at Chels suspiciously and she blushed.

"We didn't last. And he's not fat!" At that moment, Nate has already made his way towards a group of guys.

"I can't wait to show you, the whole gang!"

"You mean, everyone's here?"

"Sort of."she grinned at me and exclaimed, "Come on!"


I left Billy's apartment right after he came home . I bet Casey will have a hard time dealing with him , oh well .

" Good luck , Cas . " I thought .

I decided to walk home as I couldn't find any cab . Pfft . Well , but that's a good thing . I need an exercise anyway . Yeah , walking will help . Its not that far anyway . As I was walking , I realised all the beautiful things in the world . Green trees and blue sky . I started to think about the future , and what will happen next , till I heard someone calling my name .

" Sophie ! "

I turned to the back , and saw noone there .

" Sophie ! To your right ! "

I looked to my right , and I saw Trace in his car . I walked to his car , and he came out of the car .

" Hey , what are you still doing here ? " I asked .

" I was waiting for you , but I was a little hungry , so i went to the grocery store to have some snacks . And , then I came back . "

" Oh . Alright . Do you still have some ? I'm hungry . " I smiled .

" Its in the car . Jump in , i'll send you home . "

" Alright , Thanks . "

Trace opened the car door for me , and i went in . He passed me some snacks , and all of them are my favourites . He sure know me well , hah .

" Oooh , Oh my . Heaven . These are delicious . " I licked my fingers .

" Hell yeah . By the way , what took you so fast in Billy's apartment ? "

" Billy came home , and I decided not to disturb them , so i left . "

" Ahh . Hey , wanna have dinner at the new cafe near your house ? "

" But it's still early for dinner , don't you think so ? "

" Well , we still have to find seats , order and wait for the food right ? So the time will be just nice . " It sounded convincing though .

" Alright , if you insist . " I chuckled .

" I insist . " He smiled sweetly .

" Hey , how do you know so much bout the areas near my house ? You stalk me every night , eh ? "

" Sophie , how did you know ? Yes , I stalk you every minute , don't you realise ? " He put on his sarcastic look .

" Right , funny . "

It took us less than 15 minutes to reach the cafe . Trace was right . The food , just came at a nice time , and we finished our meal less than 45 minutes . We still had plenty of time , so we went over to the beach . The beach that we first went .

" Remind me , why are we here again ?" I asked .

" I don't know . You don't need to rush home right ? So why not come out , and take in some fresh air right ? "

" Right . It's relaxing anyway . "

We sat down on the beach and kept silent for a few minutes to enjoy the relaxing breeze in the evening . I closed my eyes and started to think bout those happy moments i've had . With my family , Trace , Casey and Minnie .

" Sophie . " I heard Trace calling my name .

" Hmm ? " I opened my eyes and saw him kneeling on the ground with a bouquet of pink roses . The same one which Martin used to buy for me .

" Oh my god . These roses are beautiful , which lucky girl is going to get that ? "

" Hah ? Sophie , can't you see i'm giving it to you ? "

" Wwwhhaat .?! Me ?! For ? " I was fully surprised when he told me he was giving it to me .

" Yeah . Errmm ... Will you be my girlfriend ? I really like you , Sophie . And I know this might give you a shock , but .. this is how i feel . "

" Traacee ! Stop joking around . I'm not falling for this again . " I laughed .

" No ! Sophie ! I'm serious . Will you ? "

" Stop it already , it's not funny . " I stopped laughing this time .

He grabbed my right hand while his the other hand holding the bouquet of roses , and my heart was pounding faster than usual . What is he up to now , I thought .

" Sophie Cassandra , I'm kneeling right here for more than 3 minutes and holding a bouquet of pink roses . And all I just want to ask is , will you be my girlfriend ? I seriously do like you , and whenever i'm with you , I feel real comfortable . So , Is it a Yes ? Or a No no ? "

" Urrmm ...... Trace .. " I looked away , feeling really awkward now .

" Is it about Martin ? " Trace interrupted . " - I know he have been with you for a year , but still , he's such an asshole right now . So why not just give me a chance ? Please ? I'm already begging with one knee . I can see that you're happy with me . " He continued .

" No no , Trace . Its not bout him . God , why do you always bring his name up ? "

" Fine fine , I'm sorry . You know what , I don't need an answer now . You can always give me a call at anytime , to tell me the answer . If it's a no , then don't bother calling , but if it's a yes , I want a straight-away call . But , I just need you to accept this bouquet of roses . " He smiled .

" Alright , Trace . " I smiled back .

" So , shall we ? " He passed the bouquet of roses , and we walked over to the car .

Both of us were quiet in the car . I didn't feel like talking as I was shocked by the incident . All i need now , is just a hot bath .

" Here you are , home sweet home . I bet you're real tired . Go get a good sleep , I'll see you in school tomorrow . " Trace wished me good night before he came out to open the car door for me . All i can do , was just to smile .

Right after i came out of the car , I saw Dad's car parked in the garage . Mum and Dad came home with Aunty Christine along with Alyssa .

" Hey , Trace . " Mum greeted Trace .

" Hey , Mr.&Mrs.Cassandra , Hi , Alyssa , and ... heeeyy ? "

" You can call me Christine , I'm Alyssa's mum . So are you Sophie's boyfriend or something ? " Aunty Christine asked .

" Aunt Christine ! Noo , he isn't . " I blushed .

" Come in , Trace . Lets have some drinks . " Mum invited Trace in .

All of us sat down in the kitchen except for Dad , as he used his excuse " I'm tired . " to escape . We started off with school , to our future and to Mum's & Aunt Christine's past . Suddenly , Alyssa's phone rang , and she went up to her room .

" Hey , can i use the bathroom for a while ? " Trace interrupted .

" Oh oh sure . Go up the stairs and turn to your right . " Mum answered .

Trace left the conversation , and soon it was 3 of us having a conversation .

------------------------

**Trace**

" Oh okay , I get your plan . You want to use me to have a relationship with Martin to make Sophie angry eh ? " Alyssa said .

I heard Alyssa talking on the phone , in her room with the loudspeaker on . I could hear someone's voice who sounds really familiar to me . Have a relationship with Martin ? To make Sophie angry ? Who would do that ?

" Yes yes . Finally you get the plan . Grrr . " The familiar voice continued .

Right . Catherine would do that , but why ?

I opened Alyssa's room door , and stomped my feet in .

" Why are you trying to make Sophie angry , hah ? " I interrupted .

" Fuck . Trace , WHY DID YOU COME IN ?! " Alyssa scolded me and quickly run to the door , to close it .

" Whose that ? Wait , WHAT ?! TRACE ?! How in the world , did he appear to be in your room , Alyssa ?! " I could hear Catherine shouting on the top of her lungs .

" I'm sorrry , Catherine . He's here because my aunt invited him in . "

" Yeah . And , I heard that you all were trying to make Sophie angry ? What are you girls trying to do ? You're trying to make Sophie sad right ? "

" Well , yeah . At least you're faster than Alyssa . I'm using Alyssa to make Martin fall in love with her , then , Sophie will be broken hearted . " Catherine did her evil laugh .

" WHAT ?! You girls have to stop that ! " I shouted at Catherine over the phnone .

" I can stop , but . with one condition . "

" What ? "

" Be my boyfriend , Trace . You do know I like you right ? "

I just confessed to Sophie , and now a girl saying that she wants me to be her boyfriend . Why can't this be Sophie ?

" If i do , you'll ... stop it ? "

" Yes . "

" Fine . " I agreed without hesitating . I would do anything for Sophie , as what i've said .