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32% Crash Into Hello / Chapter 16: CHAPTER 16

Chương 16: CHAPTER 16

Genesis's POV

           

              

               Jace left an hour ago. He didn't stay longer. He couldn't stay longer. I wish he could have. I could really use a family member around here. He had an unfinished painting he needed to get back to and had to suspend it on the last minute to come see me but I was most excited when he told me he had gotten a place for his works. He could paint some more and showcase it. Hopefully, people would troop in to come purchase. The only obstacle now was Dad. I just wished he could understand that this was Jace's dream. This was who he has ever dreamt of being.

I was rigid with tension. Nervous. Extremely nervous and God knows I never functioned well when I was nervous. In an hour's time, Keegan would be here and I still haven't had my mind made up. I was still clueless in all ramifications. Clueless as to where we were going. Clueless as to what to put on. Clueless as to if he would still like me just as much after the date. Most of all, clueless as to what would come out of all of this.

I sucked on the insides of my cheek, roaming around the room. My clothes and other unrelated materials were littered across the room. I could barely see the floor beneath my feet. I didn't know where he would be taking me an so a dress matching the location as well as the occassion was so difficult to decide on. I picked up a black short-sleeved buttoned up gown and twirled it to the side and back, contemplating on it. It should do. Yes, it should. I was almost deciding on it. It didn't look bad. I wore it last year for the thanksgiving mass and two years ago during the Christmas celebration in church. It was still out-going. I just needed to work on the seams quickly and...

                 "What the hell in fuck's name is that?" I fidgeted and immediately turned around, stunned to see Lana sprawling on my bed. At the same, cringing at the dress sagging from the metal hanger clutched loosely in my hands. I didn't hear her come in. Her brows shot up. Her eyes bulged out as if she had suddenly remembered something. She gasped. "Please, don't tell me, Genesis. Don't dare tell me right now you are actually planning on wearing that for your date because I'd shit a brick."

I frowned and glanced at the dress, "Why? Isn't it appropriate enough?"

                "For your date with Keegan? I'll give you an honest answer dear but NO. Gosh Genesis, this looks like a wack costume from the 1900s. This is no outfit for a hot and sexy girl like you. C'mon, you need to show them what you got."

                "I don't know what else to wear."

She glanced around the room. "Yeah, I can see that. But babes c'mon, you really need to show them those curves. I know you've got them because I have seen them and those sorry but nasty clothes you're always putting on. How would all the hot guys know?"

I frowned, pursing my lips, "I only want Keegan to know."

My eyes and mouth froze wide open in the dawning realization of my confession. It mirrored Lana's expressions. I grasped the dress tightly and twirled around just in time to hear her screech uproariously. It shook my eardrums vigourously. I grimaced.

She squashed me, "You little liar. I thought you said you didn't like him."

                "I never said that."

                "Liar. You did."

 

                "I said I liked him as just a friend."

                "Yeah right. And do just friends who are both male and female want the former to know the latter has curves in all the right places?"

                "I didn't mean it like...."

                "Puh-lease Genesis, are you really trying to fool me? It doesn't mean a thing. Boy like girl. Girl like boy. It's normal shit. I like that you're into my brother and I know for sure he is so damn crazy about you. He told me so."

What? "Really?"

 

                "Yes. Really."

An instant warmth coursed through my veins, penetrating my bloodstream, filling me up completely. It made me smile. It made me giggle. I felt giddy inside.

                "You really like him that much. Don't you?"

I looked away, unable to stop my mouth from stretching. "Yes I do. A lot. He's just...just too much."

She cringed. "My brother is an ass you know. Can you believe he snores? So loudly may I add. And he fats all around the house and runs away like a hippo and mother doesn't even see anything bad in it."

                 "You do that too. You snore and fat."

She looked at me incredulously, "What? I don't."

I laughed so hard, "You do fat and snore. Last night, you...."

She clapped, "Okay, okay. I know now. You don't need to tell me. What a great friend you are for ruining my extremely high may I add self-esteem. Wow. Just great. Thank you very much." She concluded, glaring at me."

I threw my head back, laughing at her expressions.

                "And I got this really cute outfit for you. Who would have thought you wouldn't even get to wear it."

                "Really? Let me see."

I stretched to take a closer look at what was inside the rectangular box but she pulled it away, swinging her arms to her side. "No so fast, honey. I thought you were shading me just now."

I chuckled, "I was only saying the truth."

She slitted her eyes, "Maybe I'll just take it instead. The shoes would for sure match it up. They would have looked really good on you. It's a pity you just had to ruin your only chance and like they say sweetheart, those fuckers come once." She taunted. "Too bad."

She set the box on the bed and unclasped the lid, taking the dress out. I outwardly gasped at the gold coloured glittery flair gown in her hands. The lace overlay, long sleeves and neckline made it so elegant and unique and overly expensive. It looked like the kind of dress a girl would dream to wear and be optimistic that her Prince charming was also dressed to finish as well in a lovely tuxedo and ready to come whisk her away into forever after. I couldn't wear it. I can't put it on. It was just too much.

                "Did - did you actually get this for me?" I asked, stunned and unable to take my eyes off the expensive piece.

                "No. Why would I? I mean I snore and fat all the time, right? You're actually gonna choose my brother over me? Nah, I didn't get this for you. It's actually for..."

I shook my head, "No Lana, I'm serious. Did you - really get this - for me?"

She stared at me. Really stared at me and noticed the apprehension etched on my face and in turn, I witnessed the confusion come with full force in her expression.

              "You don't like it?" She swayed the gown around, scrutinizing it, as if to say if she surveyed it properly, she'd perhaps find the fault she thought I saw in them but that was the problem. There wasn't a single flaw on it. It was flawless, elegant, classic. It was unbelievably gorgeous.

I stated, "I can't wear this."

               "Why?"

                "It's too much."

                "What do you mean it's to much?"

                "It's so extravagant. You obviously spent a fortune on it. I just can't...I don't know how to pay you back for it."

She trotted closer, "You don't have to pay me back for anything, Genesis. I got it for you."

               "It's so pretty and gorgeous and so beautiful for me. I don't know to pay you back. I probably have to work all the days of my life and surely my next and yet, I won't be able to raise the money. I just don't know how to...."

She reached up and steadied her palms on my shoulders, "Genesis look, I've told you. You don't have to pay me back for anything. I got it for you because I know you would obviously...." She gesticulated with her hands at my scattered things taking occupancy on the floor and partly the bed. "....Need something for your big date and as you can see, I wasn't wrong. I knew what you would like. Revealing, skimpy dresses are not your style so I made sure to search for a classy, gorgeous, princess-like dress for you yet, hot and sexy and this...was just the perfect one. I got matching shoes as well and don't ask me how I know your size at all. I made some researches before embarking on my mission. I just want you to have a good time with my brother, Genesis." She smiled. I smiled back.

I couldn't help it. I hugged her. I hugged her so tight. She was so nice to me. So so nice to me. "Thank you. Thank you so much."

                "You're going to get me all soft and cheesy right now." She glanced at the watch on her wrist, "Keegan would soon be here. Let's get you stunning. You still have to doll up."

 

                "I don't think that would be necessary."

She jerked back like I had just slapped her in the face. "What? No way girl, I mean you're already gorgeous and all but you've got to get my brother's jaw drop and not just drop. It's gotta hit the fucking floor. You hear me?"

I laughed, "Okay but just make it light."

                "Done." 

When she was through, I positioned myself in front of the bureau mirror and took inventory. Makeup was minimal, reserved to a sweep of mascara and black eyeliner. Beeswax and red dye were mixed together and rubbed on my lips.

My dark brown hair fell down my shoulders, trailing the small of my back. It contrasted with the shimmering golden colour of the amethyst beautifully. The kohl she used accentuated the brown colour of my eyes. Pearl earrings were fastened to my ears and a pearl head band completed my preparation. I could barely recognize myself. I looked different. I felt different. But a beautiful kind of different. This wasn't the girl I had seen everyday when I passed by the corners of the store windows. She was temporarily gone, given way for this new breed to take over.

              "You look so pretty. Oh my God." She gasped and began to flap her hands over her face.

               "You're sure?" I was nervous. Anxious. Will he like this? Was it too much? I nibbled on the insides of my cheek, rethinking my decision. Maybe I should have probably gone for the black buttoned up gown instead.

I sank into the sheets and began to fiddle with my fingers. The back of her knees bent in front of me and my chin lifted to meet her face.

A worried look was evident in her expression, "You look beautiful, dear. You are beautiful."

                "I know. I just...I don't know if this is too much. I don't even know where he's taking me. Maybe this isn't appropriate for the day. I just...."

                "Hey. Wherever he's gonna take you, just enjoy yourself and have loads and loads of fun. There are so many goddamn problems in the world. You got to live a little. It doesn't matter what you're putting on. You're gorgeous either way. Look, Keegan has never - as in never ever dated a girl ever before. He has barely taken a girl out. He's used to the hit and quit.

His heart has always - always been on his sleeves. It's all right there. Matter of fact, I didn't even need no one telling me he was into you. I could see it in the way he stared at you, in the way he looked at you especially when you are not looking. It was like you were the most beautiful girl in the world so when he tells you he loves you, believe it because he fucking means it."

I laughed, "I think love is quite early between the two of us."

                "Never say never, girl. C'mon, get up. He would soon be here." Just on cue, a light knock came through.

I could feel my pulse pounding in my temples and my heart racing. I didn't realize I was nibbling on my cheek so I released it. Another knock came in and I fidgeted. Lana winked at me with a knowing smile on her face and skipped to the door. His deep baritone voice engulfed the entire room instantly. It melted my sides, goosebumps coated the surface of my skin, weakening my senses.

I heard Lana say,  "You're five minutes late."

 

                  "Are we really doing some punctuality shit now?"

                  "To pick your girl? C'mon, you gotta be punctual. That's like the number rule in section B 146 of the 1999 how to date a girl constitution."

                  "It's a good thing you never went in for law. No shit. You'd never get  a soul out of jail. You'd throw them in there instead." I sniffled a laugh.

She smacked him on the arm, "HEY. How dare you?"

                "You know I ain't shitting. You said I was late and you're standing in my way. C'mon, where's Genny? I really need to see her."

  

               "Ooohh, lover boy."

               "Fuck off."

Breathing deeply, I picked up a pace, working my legs in their direction. My heart beat accelerated and my hands were unable to quit moving. Head downcast, I took the spot beside Lana, fumbling with my fingers.

At an instant, deep silence hung in the air. No one said a word for the first few minutes. The silence was like a gaping void, needing to be filled with sounds, words, anything. I needed him to say something, to open his mouth and speak to me. Maybe I didn't look so good. Perhaps, this was just a bad mistake. I was worried he wasn't pleased with my outlook. God, I knew this wasn't appropriate enough.

My lips parted. My eyes began trailing the whole of him from the tip of his shiny black polished shoes accentuated with glittery shades of silver by the sides. Up they creeped to the well fitted plain black pants that had straight vertical lines pressed at the centre and to the whole of him. He appeared before me, in all his grandeur. A tailored black suit with a charming silver tie. His eyes a sparkling blue and his soft, feather-like black hair brushed away from his brow.

He eyes ran through the length of me, scanning, surveying, scrutinizing. I felt naked under his gaze. It was intense. It was overwhelming.

The instant his lips parted, the silence broke, "Fuck."

I blinked, involuntarily rounding my eyes. His feet moved. Each click of foot emanating a small sound beneath the soles of his feet. He came closer and closer, slowly eating away at the distance separating us. The cologne kissing his skin and tux was capable of creating addiction and fetishes. It had this alluring scent, powerful and made me want to snuggle into him and stay cuddled in his arms forever.

I searched for breathe, "Kee-Keegan. I don't..." Suddenly my words were smothered into silence as he pulled me into his ripped arms. His lips descended to mine in a kiss so warm and sensual. I couldn't help but respond. His lips were so warm and soft and my thoughts littered all over my mind. I swayed against him, groping his hard chest in a bid to find stability. His tongue searched my mouth. It was sweet, lascivious. My knees weakened. I gripped onto his shoulders.

Through the thudding of my own heartbeat in my ears, I heard Lana's incredulous voice resound from across the room, "Really? You two are seriously gonna do this in front of me?"

He released my mouth, leaving them swollen. Our faces remained close as we just stared into each other's eyes. It felt like I was drowning in the ocean pool of his eyes.

                "You. Are. So. Fucking. Heavenly." I didn't know what to say. I was lost for words. I stared blankly at him. His lips curled upwards.

                "Go get a room, you two. Seriously."

                "We already got one." He didn't turn. He didn't look back at her. His focus and attention were on me. His hand came to rest on the side of my face as his long fingers grazed my cheek. They brushed the corners of my mouth. It tingled.

Lana groaned, "Really, guys. Just fuck already."

I felt my cheek turn crimson.

               "No, I'd make love to her instead."

Oh God, "Keegan." I could barely form whisper. He grinned, showcasing a set of perfect white teeth.

               "You two should get going. You're gonna make me question my singleness."

               "Hey, I'm a single guy too, you know."

               "Yeah right. Go. Go celebrate your last hours as a single dude brother."

I watched the huge knot on his throat bop up and down as he laughed. His arm snaked around my waist, leading me towards the door.

               "Buh-bye Genesis. Have fun. And you Keegan, make sure you wrap it up. Don't want no mini you and Genesis giving me a headache nine months later."

               "That wouldn't a bad idea."

I screamed-whispered, "Keegan." He cackled and at that moment, two hollow indentions took positions on his cheeks.

His car was parked in front of the dorm building. I noticed it was different from the one he used in giving me a ride. Black and sleek, it gleamed under the sun. It resembled those ones a movie star or a successful person would possess.

I turned when a slight ding oozed out from the car. He pulled the door to the passenger seat. On instinct, I backtracked, accidentally colliding with his chest.

                "Hey. Are you okay?" The slight buzz of his breath on my neck had me craning to look at him.

My eyes fluttered, "Y-yeah." I slid in to escape the feeling I always got from being too close to him. The interior was absolutely beautiful. I was surrounded by so much leather, soft and warm.

I watched him from the windscreen as his tall frame crossed the front and tugged the door open, taking the wheel. He threw me a wink before sneering the car into drive.

I was unable to keep my eyes off him for a complete five minutes. I just couldn't do it. The anticipation, the curiosity were slicing at me. The smile tearing his face apart told me he was aware of my constant glance and side peeks. Yet, he never returned any. It made me think he had it altogether while I was a mess. I nibbled on the insides of my cheek to calm my nerves. I did that a lot when I struggled with tension.

My head jerked up when he pulled up in what seemed to be a park. An extremely spacious one to be precise but the more I looked, the more I realized it wasn't really a park. At least, not in that sense.

I didn't realize Keegan had gotten out and was now standing by my side with the door pulled back. I took his extended hand and he led me out. Exotic cars of different brands and models neatly occupied the huge space. The ground was vigourously marbled, giving off this sophisticated vibe.

I let my eyes wander around the property. It was just picturesque. Beautiful, lavishing in money and power. I didn't miss the monstrous building that galloped high into the clouds. The building was large, smoked glass and steel, each one joined to the next by a covered walkway. This was obviously a place for the elites and high class.

Why did he bring me here?

               "You done taking it all in?"

I craned my neck. He was grinning down at me. My eyes were wide and my jaw slack. I was unable to formulate any logical thought. I was thoroughly speechless. At a loss for words.

He snuggled me closer, placing a chaste kiss on my cheek. "Let's get in."

The floor was tiled in fine marble, which made every step echo. A chandelier made rainbow colors dance across the luxurious lobby. Embroidered silk sofas surrounded a large, flat-screen television. The twin doors that led into the lobby were a pristine white with golden handles. The desk was made of amber-colored wood and a green granite top. Exquisite paintings hung from the rich, red walls. Even the door hinges were engraved with swirls and elegant designs. The domed ceiling rose at least 100 feet high. I gaped at the splendid sight.

A woman dressed in black coperate wear and blonde straight hair cascading down her back I hadn't noticed clicked her heels against the marbled floors like an elegant. Beautiful and confident, she seemed to be in her late thirties or early forties. She was dripping with professionalism and experience. One I couldn't just help but admire.

She extended her hand and Keegan took it in the same manner, "Good day, Mr Scott...."

               "I'm sorry. It's Keegan. I'd prefer that."

She inclined her head in concord, "It's so good to see you again. Please, come with me."

Immediately, he stopped her, "No, don't bother. I can find my way. Thank you." He nodded curtly before taking my hand and leading me through a long flight of stairs. I couldn't help it. The interior called to me. I let my eyes wonder far and beyond, taking in all of it. An empire this was.

I turn to whisper to Keegan, "Where is this place? What are we doing here?"

He laughed, "Don't tell me you ain't hungry because I know I am. The food here is the best. C'mon."

He walked through the space like he owned the place. Nodding and talking to almost all the staffs and business men in expensive designer suits as if to say he knew who they were. I felt out of place. I was out of this huge league and even I knew it. Keegan was way above me. I began to think this was a bad idea altogether from the start. The eye of other patrons followed me as I advanced further, hand in hand with Keegan. I felt like an underage who was trying to buy liquor, like I had no business being here. 

We walked into a large hall that seemed to be arguably 7,800 square feet with a dramatic 18 inches ceiling. Beautifully appointed with crystal chandeliers and a creamy colour pallete, I froze at its astonishing beauty. A waiter walked towards us and led us to a quiet table situated at the far end of the hall.

Book two months in advance because this place wasn't the kind of place you get a table on impulse. Keegan just asked me to this date last night and now...this was happening?

Large mullioned windows, long embroidered curtains, dark walnut tables, flowers on each table, delicate live piano music, flagstone tile floor, lounge area with embroidered couches, oval coffee tables with splendidly proportioned cabriole legs, tea served from silver trays in white teapots.

The chair gently scraped along the tiles. He snuggled me in, guiding me into the chair. I immediately slid in, mumbling out a thank you. Then, he crossed over and sat across.

                "What's your bottle of preference, sir?" I hadn't realised the waiter was still nearby.

He turned to me instead with an eyebrow arched and lips twitching. I was lost. Did he want me to choose something? I didn't know a thing about any of this.

I was highly relieved when he replied the waiter himself and soon, he was gone.

My stomach shifted uneasily and the insides of my cheek got stuck between my teeth. I knew he was staring at me and I was afraid that if I looked up, I wouldn't be able to take it anymore. I kept my eyes glued to my fingers underneath the table and there it stayed till I heard him speak.

              "What are you thinking about?"

I risked it. I slowly lifted my chin and met his blue eyes and that was it. I became hypnotized. I became transfixed. Lost even. Before I could blink, the waiter returned with a bottle of wine frozen inside a metal bucket, underneath a wide saucer. He cocked it open and filled our glasses with the red liquid. Then, he left.

All this time, our eyes were still locked to each other's. The Atlantic blue color swirled into a silvery hue as he gazed at me. I stared back. I could feel myself becoming hypnotized by the changing colors. He smiled and spots of blue danced in his irises and grew to swallow the silver.

                 "Genny, please talk to me. I want to know what you're thinking."

I was frozen for maybe three whole seconds before the corners of my mouth resumed their usual softness and my eyes quit staring.

I shrugged, "I don't know. I just..." I turned, taking in the swarm of elites and social high class individuals shrouded in impeccable tuxedos and expensive designer gowns. I didn't fit in here.

I turned back, meeting his worried eyes, "I feel like..."

              "Fuck." He leaned back, sweeping his hand through his hair. "I've messed this up already, haven't I?"

~

What's up?

So I just want to quickly say that I made some minor changes in some chapters from CHAPTER 1 to CHAPTER 15. It's actually nothing and doesn't affect the story at all. The story is still very much the same though and if you've been envisioning this story as interracial, it isn't anymore due to some neccessities and that's why the cover was changed.

Quick one, Dario's POV and Genesis's, which do you prefer?😁😁

Please, tap the vote button and please comment.

Next update on Tuesday.

              

 

   

             

           

    

              

               

                


Chương 17: CHAPTER 17

Genesis's POV

             

                 Words momentarily left me. As I stared into his bright blue eyes, I couldn't quite decipher the reasons he would think that. The reasons he even let those thoughts cross his mind. Since the beginning of our outing, he has been nothing but sweet with me. He has been a perfect gentleman. No one has ever treated me the way he's done and still doing.

While being here with him, I was very aware of the fact that so many girls like me will give up everything all to be in my present position - seated in front of this beautiful human - within the four walls of this luxurious empire and ready to be treated like a queen so what was wrong with me?

He chuckled, dropping his eyes on the table while scratching the back of his neck, "I'm sorry. I'm not really used to this. I just thought...I wanted to do something really great with you. Fuck...I thought...."

                "Keegan..."

                "I wanted to try with you, you know. Because I like you. Fuck Genny. I'm so fucking mad about you. I'm sorry this wasn't what you wanted. I didn't really know what you wanted..."

                "Keegan..."

                "I kind of wanted this to be perfect and I guess I just messed this up. I'm so-"

                 "Keegan."

At the elevated tone of my voice, his eyes swiftly shifted up, boring into mine. They were large and panicky. Cold sweat glistened on his furrowed brow. His lips were pressed into a thin line and a worried look etched on his face.

He scrubbed his hands over his face, groaning, "Fuck. Why am I so nervous?"

I blinked. My brows crashed at his revelation. My tongue became tied up. Ranging from his appearance to this very moment, he didn't seem a bit out of place. He seemed to have it altogether. I had thought I was the only one uneased. In some type of way, it laid my mind to rest for a bit. Being aware I wasn't the only one warring with my nerves.

I blandished, "Keegan." He gazed at me, the corner of his lips twitched for a fraction of a minute. "This is beautiful and I love it. You don't need to beat yourself up over anything. You're doing great and I absolutely love it here."

He gazed at me for a moment. With his stare, it felt like he was looking through my soul, searching my heart, looking for what I wasn't so quite sure for.

His reached for the untouched wine glass in front of him and took a sip. The knot on his throat slowly bopped as the liquid travelled down his throat. It became static for a bit and then moved again - only slightly.

Then he licked his lips, clicking his tongue, "How do I believe you now, huh?"

Instantly, my thoughts scattered. I was thrown off.

             "How do I know you're not just saying this to make me feel better, huh?"

What? "I-I'm not. I really mean it."

He shrugged, "How would I know? How are you gonna prove it, eh? I need something to back it up. I need more than words."

               "I wasn't trying to do that. I really love all of this. I mean it."

               "Come over and show me you mean it." He replied biting the edge of a smile.

               "I d-don't understand."

He glanced up and swiftly casted his eyes on the table and back up at me, "You see? How would I know anything?" He sighed, shaking his head. The corners of his mouth would perk up every now and then.

I felt lost and confused. I couldn't make out his direction. I could feel my insides swirm uncontrollably as I let my eyes fall on my thighs. With hands clasped tightly in front of my stomach, I constantly fiddled with my knuckles, weaving the fingers in and out of each other.

I whisked my head, letting my eyes wander around the overly populated restaurant and then turned to him, jaw slack, brain retiring. I couldn't make out what he wanted.

The corners of his lips were fighting back a smile, his eyebrows raised. "So I should tag you as dishonest?"

             "No please. Kee-gan, I d-don't know..."

             "So you're just lying to me, eh? You didn't mean a thing? You were restraining the truth from me and telling me lies? Wow. Just wow. Hurt me with the truth Genesis. Do not tell me lies." He rocked his head to the side and back, wrinkling his  mouth.

No more Genny? My stomach fell. "I'm-I'm not...I'm j-just...I don't know wh-what you..."

             "How would I believe you if you don't back it up with something, huh? Come over and show me you mean it. Do something." His brows crashed.

I breathed, "I k-know. I...."

He looked away. I could feel my pulse pounding so hard in my temples and my heart beating so fast against the cage of my heart. I gazed up at him. He wasn't even staring at me anymore. His eyes were roaming around the hall entirely, refocusing every now and then on different people. I wanted his eyes on me and not them. The soft pads of his fingers drummed against the table surface, his brow wrinkled.

Another quick glance around and I grazed the chair against the marble floors at an inchmeal creating the space needed to stand. My stomach knotted up. A slick smile spread, dimpling his cheeks in a way that will always leave me fascinated. He still didn't spare a glance in my direction.

A large dose of his strong scent of cologne infiltrated my nostrils as I traipsed closer. Closer and closer, eating away at the little space seperating us. Each step I took emanated a soft panic within me, that grew when my thoughts twirled into a vortex of nervousness.

The very moment I entirely closed the distance between us, a frightened yawp left my mouth. Surprised and shocked, I didn't just see what he did next coming. This was a ploy. A trap. One I fell straight into. Unpredicted and startling. I didn't think. I just never envisioned he would do something as mischievous as this. Christ, I felt so dumb. He actually played me.

I had fallen straight into his laps the second he grabbed at my arms. His shoulders heaved as he bursted into a loud cackle of laughter. My hands were wrapped around his neck due to his silly prank. I couldn't believe he did that. From deep inside his chest came a great shaking motion. It vibrated against my front.

I frowned and pulled away. Embarrassed I let him fool me. I could have seen he was only faking. I paused when he stopped me, firmly keeping me in place in his arms.

He chuckled into my ear, "I'm sorry." He laughed again. "I'm really sorry. It's just that....God, you should have seen the way you looked." I turned. The tip of our noses brushed against each other. I feigned a frown but deep inside, I was writhing in nervousness.

I whispered, "Why did you do that? I thought you were upset with me." I could tell from the look on his face that he wasn't done yet. His face muscles grew tight. I folded my arms, eyebrow arched, waiting.

In moments, Keegan's laugh was more like a bust water main arching into the brilliant summer sky soaking everyone around him with unrestrained gales that debilitated him to a thigh slapping and pick faced picture of glee. I wanted to stay straight faced, flip my hair and storm off - he was after all laughing "at me", not "with me." But before I could stop myself, my poker straight mouth twitched upwards and I was giggling despite myself.

                "You're not good Keegan."

He chuckled, "I'm sorry. I really am."

                "I thought you were mad at me."

                "I can't get mad at you."

                "Well, I am mad at you right now." I turned. The corner of his lower lip was underneath his teeth.

                "I said I was sorry. C'mon, kiss me." He puckered his lips.

I chuckled, shaking my head, "No."

                "Kiss me."

                "Nah-uh."

He prodded my sides. I jerked, laughing.

                "Genny, I'm not gonna stop till you kiss me. I hope you know that."

I buckled, "Keegan, please stop. We are in a public environment."

    

                "All the more reason to tickle you."

I squirmed on his thighs, bending over with laughter, "Keegan." I scolded. "People are watching."

He guffawed above me, "Let them watch. Then they would know whose girl you are. Kiss me. Then, I quit. We've got a deal."

              "No."

              "You wanna be stubborn? Baby, I'm all for that."

              "I'm not going to...." I was splitting my sides with his tickles and prods. I tried to swat his hands away. Unfortunately, he caught both of mine and resumed his assault.

               "Okay, okay." I began to negotiate. "If I do kiss you, you'd let me go?"

He jerked back, "Let you go? Baby, I ain't letting you go anywhere."

Chuckling, I amended, "I mean back to my chair."

               "Oh. Yeah, sure."

I giggled and nodded. Closing the little space between us, I quickly planted a soft kiss on his cheek.

He frowned at me, shaking his head, "No, that's not gonna do."

I laughed again. I've been doing so much of that with him, "I did what you asked." I complained.

                "Come. I'll show you." He glided his hand around the back of my neck. My entire body grew taut as his head tipped up to mine. His mouth rested firmly against mine, intoxicating me further. I closed my eyes and let myself melt against him, flattening the palm of my hands on his stone-carved chest. Tongue stroking, lip biting, he swept a hand up my bare back and into my hair where he twisted and curled the locks in between his fingers, tipping his face to mine hence sending waves and waves of electric sensations through my every nerves.

Our kiss full of every kind of sensuality might have gone on for minutes, perhaps hours before a slight, deliberate cough intruded into the little world we created for ourselves. I turned around, stunned to see the waiter from before standing above us with what looked like a mini touch screen to take our order I presumed.

              "Oh God." I spun back so fast I was surprised my neck didn't snap, snuggling my face into the crook of Keegan's neck. He chuckled against my cheek. I could feel the heat burning my cheeks. I groaned, deeply embarrassed the waiter had seen us in that state. He laughed harder. 

I wasn't able to hear the exchange between them. I didn't put much mind into it either. I wouldn't be able to even if I tried.

He nudged me, "What do you want?"

I shrugged, nuzzling his neck, "I'll take what you take."

As soon as the waiter left our presence, I discarded his side before he could stop me and quickly resumed my seat. His laughter haunted me all the way.

I shook my head, giggling at what just happened, "It isn't funny, Keegan. Can you stop laughing? Please?"

              "How can I, Genny? You make me laugh."

I palmed my face, holding back bubbles of laughter, "You're crazy."

             "Yeah. I'm crazy about you."

I groaned, "God, please stop." He threw his head back again.

In front of me laid a serving of some type of food I haven't seen or heard before. The layout was impressive. No spillage or confusions. I couldn't quite pin-point what it smelt like and for starters, the name of the meal wasn't known to me. I glanced up at Keegan to find him stuffing a large portion into his mouth. He licked his fleshy lips and grabbed a handful of another unfamiliar food and began chewing on them.

Feeling motivated, I spooned the food on the right side and brought it up to my mouth. Slowly, I emptied the content. Immediately, it hit my tongue, I gobbed it back out. Regretful that I didn't read the menu. I grabbed it from the table in quick movements, squinting my eyes to read the words. Christ, they weren't even in English.

                "You don't like it?" I could see the worried look on his face. I instantly felt bad. I could have just dealt with it but the aftertaste was unpleasant. I couldn't help the grimace that crept up my face.

I shook my head in the negative and quickly reached for his plate, sweeping a piece of an unknown into my mouth. Instantly, I spat it out again, cringing. How does he eat this comfortably? I wasn't used to this kind of food. Perhaps, maybe that's what wrong.

I peeked at him. He was smiling at me, shaking his head. I instantly felt relieved. He wasn't upset. I didn't want him to.

                "You've got a problem with your taste buds. No shit. This is like the best food here."

 

                 "Well, my taste buds says they don't find it nice. Yours are pretty weird." He chuckled, popping a piece of an unknown into his mouth.

I watched him with disbelief lick his fingers clean. "Mmmnn...delicious." He smacked his lips. "You don't know what you're missing really."

I grimaced, "It looks like bread drenched in syrup and tastes like soap."

He dissolved into fits of laughter, shoulders shaking. "Damn, you're joking, right? No shit. Genny, this is Foie Gras. It's hella popular out there in France."

               "It's no wonder I never liked French back in high school. The highest I ever scored was a sixty-eight and I'm telling you even that was the highest score in class."

He chuckled, "Pretty smart, huh?"

                "For a sixty-eight?"

                "Here in Oklahoma, you just gained yourself a B."

                "Oh so an A starts from a seventy-five or...?"

He shook his head, "No, a seventy."

                "Wow. Must be pretty easy, huh?"

He chuckled, "Is that what you think?"

                "Yeah, I think it is. Well, I don't know. Can I ask what your GPA is like?"

                "I'm on a 3.42."

I flinched in surprise, "Really? That's like really big."

He laughed, wrinkling his brows, "What? A certain asshole has been on a fucking 4.0 since our second year. I think that's what's big."

              "You're doing great, Keegan. Isn't that a first class or something?"

              "Nah."

              "But you can still get that, right? I heard a first class kicks off from a 3.5."

He smiled at me, "Affirmative."

I smiled back, laughing, "How did we go from the food to your GPA, eh?

                 "I've been trying to grasp it." He leaned back in his chair and tipped his head, "So tell me, what do you want?"

I glanced around the restaurant and turned, meeting his eyes trained on me. An eyebrow arched, awaiting my response.

I shrugged, "You don't have to bother with me. I'm fine."

              "You're not serious, right?"

  

              "I'll make do with this. I don't want it to go to waste. I can tell it is really expensive."

              "Genny, I took you out today because I wanted to spend quality time with you. I wanted to be with you. This is a date. A treat and the bills on me. You just said you don't like the meal. I could order something for you. You don't for any reason have to settle for something that doesn't at all appeal to you. I won't allow it."

              "I just don't want you spending so much on me."

              "Am I complaining?"

I pursed my lips.

He repeated, "Am I complaining, Genny?"

I shook my head, mumbling, "No."

               "So I ask again, what do you want?"

               "I don't know. Anything cheesy, I guess."

               "Like a pizza or what?"

               "Something chocolate. A doughnut would be fine. No, a chocolate frosted doughnut would be very great."

He smiled, "Like the dispenser thingy, huh?"

I covered my face, giggling, "Stop. Please, don't remind me of that."

               "Beautiful."

He signalled a waiter to come over and repeated my choice food. The staff left and returned moments later. My mouth watered as I stared at my guilty pleasure. I try to eat healthy but I have soft spots for some foods that one probably shouldn't eat on a daily basis. Doughnuts are definitely one of them. To be honest, doughnuts are a gift from God Himself. Flour and yeast fried to perfection and coated with a sugar mixture and topped with lot of chocolate is pure heaven!! Nothing tops that for me.

I closed my eyes, savouring the irrestible taste. I heard Keegan chuckle across from me.

Eyes still closed, I offered, "Want some?"

                "All that sugar? Nah. Thanks."

I peeked out an eye, taunting, "You don't know what you're missing." Throwing his words back at him.

He cheered, laughing. "Ayyyee. Nice. Nice. Nice one."

Shrouded in a well ironed suit and dressed to finesse, a presumable staff clicked his foot against the marble tiles  sauntering in our direction. He acknowledged me while averting his eyes to Keegan immediately.

He gestured with a mannerism soaked with respect, "Good day sir..."

        

Keegan interrupted, "Keegan."

The man nodded, "Mr. Scott wants to see you."

His brow shot up instantly, jaw slacked, "Oh. He's here?"

               "Yes. In his office."

               "Okay. Sure. I'll be there immediately."

The staff turned and left. Keegan's eyes met mine. He smiled, rising to his feet. I frowned, disturbed. I wanted to ask. I really did want to ask.

                "I'll be back." He leaned in and glued his lips to mine, slightly biting the lower lip before letting go.

I watched him nod and smile to people as he ambled along the tiles, moving swiftly into the marbled lobby of the restaurant.

I turned back around, adjusting the strap of my dress. With nothing else to do, I let myself soak in the ambient music for a few moments, wondering what the words were and drinking in the fragranced air. I don't know how long I had my eyes closed, drowning in the soft music played by the pianist by the far end of the hall before I sighted Keegan walking down the stairs with a rather elderly man. He looked to be in his early fifties or presumably late.

Cladded in an expensive black tux which fitted him perfectly, he walked with grace and such grandeur that I had to rise up on his entrance on an impulse. Almost as tall as Keegan whose arm brushed his suit every now and then as they advanced further. His face wore a warm and kind smile which he casted in my direction. I glanced around, confused as to who the smile was for. It could have innocently been someone behind me.

His face was clean shaved but utterly serious, yet kind and welcoming. With a smile splitting his lips, he outstretched his hand towards me. Instantly, I became compelled to take it. I glanced at Keegan as if seeking for permission. He tipped his head, throwing me a wink.

His hand which nails were expensively manicured enveloped my own wholly. The instant he parted his mouth, a voice so deep it vibrated with power  and authority resounded in my ears,

 

                "My son has told me a lot about you." He turned to Keegan. "She is absolutely gorgeous in person. I can see that." He turned back to me. "I am Mr. Scott. The owner of this remarkable establishment. It's a pleasure to meet you. I hope you've been having a splendid time here."

My brain stuttered for a moment. My eyes froze wide open, as round as saucers.

I minced words, not entirely sure how to react. "Y-yes, I am. Thank you for the hospitality."

He nodded, still warmly smiling down at me, "I'm glad you are. We try to offer nothing but the best here."

                "I can see that sir."

                "Please, just call me Daniel. You are a friend of my son's?"

A quick glance at Keegan. My nerves were sparking like live wires. I could feel my palms turning sweaty.

He introduced me to his father? This could only mean one thing.

Not able to form coherent words, I gave him a slight nod, unknowingly nibbling on the insides of my cheek. Keegan leaned forward and came by my side, squashing me into his chest. I mentally appreciated his gesture for I needed some kind of support.

I forced the words to roll out of my tongue, not at all surprised at the trembling and quivering features they possessed. This man was very intimidating to the say the least.

               "My-my name is Genesis Reeds. I'm new at Oklahoma. I met Keegan in school, sir."

He smiled, "I know who you are. My son has told me already. But sadly, I'll have to take my leave. I wish I could know you better. Some other time would do. Perhaps, we could have dinner at a convenient time. How about that?"

Oh God, "Y-yeah. That-That would be fine, sir."

               "You can get used to addressing me as Daniel dear."

He turned, "Have you spoken to Dario today?"

 

              "Yeah. I have. Before I arrived here."

              "How is he? Please, tell him to give me a call. I need to know how that kid is doing."

He concurred, "Not a problem."

                "I'd tell you not to bother with the bills but we both know you'd never oblige."

He patted him on his shoulder and gave me a curt nod before turning his back.

I released a breathe I didn't even know I was holding, willing my heart to stop racing and my stomach to unknot.

Keegan nestled me into his arms where I closed my eyes, succumbing to relaxation he provided.

He mumbled above my head, "I'm sorry. I didn't know he was in the city. I know this was sudden."

               "It's okay. It wasn't so bad."

               "He must have caught the surveillance. I'm so sorry. He only wanted to meet you."

               "It's fine Keegan. I'm fine."

               "You wanna leave?"

I accepted. I did want to leave but then the bills. Those bills. Just the doughnuts I had eaten was priced at two hundred dollars for a piece and I had taken three. I never bought a doughnut that expensive. It was outrageous. I barely had fifty dollars in my purse else I wouldn't let him pay for that. Coupled with the French meals and the bottle of champagne. Thinking about it, I couldn't have let the waiter uncork it. Just a coke would have been enough for me.

I complained all the way out which only made Keegan laugh. How incredulous he didn't see anything abnormal in this. One thing I know is that I'm never eating at a fancy restaurant again and no one is ever taking me there either.

We drove around the city with no specified direction, talking about what not and laughing at the jokes we created. The music blasting from his stereo was my favourite part. It didn't matter the lyrics weren't all familiar with our tongues, we rose our voices to the beats and melodies of the music regardless, jamming to it and enjoying each other's company.

We passed by a bowling alley. I got excited and made him stop. He jokingly protested for a bit but parked in front of the building anyway. I had always wanted to bowl sometime and this moment only sparked the desire more. Apparently, he didn't like bowling but I witnessed some impressive skills he got. Above all, I was only able to take down two pins in all my thirty shots. They just kept rolling under. It was hilariously fun altogether.

So many places called to us. Scratch that, so many places called to me and he just went along. I preferred rambling around the city to using his car. There, I could breathe in the city of Oklahoma properly and take in the many beautiful places we came by. But my feet was proving to be an obstacle. I wasn't used to stilettos in general and they had begun to hurt my feet. We came across a boutique at the end of the road.

He made me let him carry me bridal style. I squealed in surprise, splitting my sides so bad when he sprinted down the road, towards the boutique. Moments later, we exited the place with a pair of flat shoes covering my feet and bags of what not hanging from our arms. I couldn't stop him from getting me other things I didn't at all need and won't probably use. I noticed Keegan was very skilled in using his tongue.

Fingers weaved into each other, we took the path in the direction of the car park location after hours of viewing the city. I was happy. I was content. Most of all, I was grateful. Grateful I was chanced to experience something as beautiful as this. Something this blissful. Of course, I couldn't have done it alone. I looked up at Keegan. Standing on my toes, I lightly pressed my lips to his cheek. He chuckled, smiling down at me.

I reciprocated, "Thank you."

               "For what?"

               "For this? Thank you."

He wound his arm around my neck, bringing me closer to his body heat.

               "Well thank you for choosing to go out with me. I'm a very boring guy."

I snorted, "Whoever told you that Keegan obviously lied to you. Today was so much fun. I had loads of fun all thanks to you."

               "I'm glad you think that way, shawty."

                "Is that a new nickname for me?"

                "One of many others."

I laughed. "Okay. Then, I'm going to search for one for you then. Maybe keekee would do."

He screeched, "What? No way. That sounds like something Lana would say. I can't have two Lanas in my life. One would do. No shit."

              "Lana is pretty nice."

He cringed. I laughed at his face he pulled.

              "She is. Really. I noticed you don't look like your dad."

              "Yeah, I've got my mum's facials. Only dad's physique. Lana took everything else."

                "Oh." I wanted to know so I asked, "How old are you Keegan?"

                "Pushed twenty two the day I saw you at the lobby."

                "Can I ask you something?"

                "Anything Genny."

                "How are you best friends with...with your best friend?"

He gazed down at me, "You mean Dario?"

                "Yeah. I mean you two are so different from each other. The contrast is much. I know it's none of my business but I can't help but want to know. It's just that he..."

                "Genny, I'd tell you anything you want to know. Dario and I have been buddies since we were fourteen. He came to stay with my family at that time. I introduced him to my friends and we grew up together. After highschool, the five of us decided to get a place to live together for college. We didn't like the idea of staying at different dorms."

I was confused, "The five of you?"

               "Yeah. Ian, Erika, Lana, Dario and myself."

               "But Lana stays in the dorm."

               "Oh yeah...uhh..."

               "You said he came to stay with your family. For holidays or a visit or...."

               "Permanently. My mother brought him home. I befriended him actually." He chuckled. "It wasn't easy though."

I frowned. "It wasn't easy. As in?"

                "Dario doesn't let just anyone in. It takes a lot to get on his good side. I am his bestfriend and yet I'm not fully in either."

I wanted to know, "Why?"

He sighed, "Dario is...Dario isn't any type of regular guy, Genny. He's different."

                "And I guess on the former, I'm a living witness and there are so many others."

                "He ain't that bad."

                "Sure but he's bad to me. Really bad."

He stopped walking. We both stopped. He turned, taking my face in between his palms, voice on a whisper "Does it bother you?"

Yes it does. It really does. I wasn't just used to having problems with anyone. It's either you never noticed me or I'm at peace with you but never this. Never a rift.

               "I would say he dislikes me but that wouldn't be the appropriate word to use Keegan. Your friend hates me. He loathes me and I don't even know why."

               "He is that way with everybody. It ain't really about you. Don't feel that way."

               "But mine is really extra."

He coaxed, "Hey, hey. Come here." He pulled me in for a hug. My arms stayed swaddled around his waist. "I'm so sorry about that."

His phone beeped. He made no attempt in checking it.

I pulled back, craning my head to look up at him, "What about my phone? Any progress?"

                 "Yup. Still working on it. It's at my house. Wanna go check it out with me?"

                 "Only if your friend won't be around."

  

                  "Nah. Just avoid him."

An hour later had us walking into his home. The last time I was here, the place was buzzing with people stashed around the entire building. I couldn't turn without bumping into someone but now, it was different. It didn't seem like anyone even lived here. If not for the well furnished living room and spotless places, you'd never guess correctly.

We trudged up the stairs. The route he was took appeared very familiar to me. Not until we passed by a door did I remember why it seemed so recognizable. Memories of that night came flashing back. Memories of my first kiss with him. Then, I only felt anger after the experience. I felt like he stole something from me but presently, when I thought back to that night, I couldn't exactly say the same.

Keegan's room was like a perfect magazine cover. The couch was cream but inlaid with a fine green silk; leaves embroidered so delicately that they might have landed there in spring and just sunk in, but I know they took hundreds of hours to sew.

The white curtains were linen, the kind of white that is untouched by hands and devoid of dust. A flat screen television with a wide inch appearance hung up on the wall, a bookshelf stocked with different variety of books and novels if it was really a Jane Eyre copy peeking out. The floor was a high polished wood, dark and free of either dust or clutter. I was afraid to sit on the bed in case I wrinkled the fabric or stained it with something I didn't even know was on my dress.

He dropped his suit jacket on the bed and unbuttoned his shirt, showcasing a thoroughly ripped body of toned skin and well scruptured arbs.

He groaned, "Fuck. I really hate suits."

I laughed, "You looked really good in them today." I went for the bookshelf asking, "You read novels?"

He chuckled, "No. Not at all. That's for Dario. I stole some from him."

I was stunned for a bit. "He's into books?"

                "Like it's no man's business."

That surprised me. "Have you read it? I mean the Jane Eyre."

                "I don't dabble in literature, shawty."

                "It's a good novel. It's really great. My favourite character is Mr. Rochester. You should read it sometime."

                "Would do. Anything for you. I've got to use the bathroom. You need anything?"

                "Just a little bit thirsty." He crossed the room to get to the door. I stopped him. "I'll go get it myself."

                "You're sure?"

I nodded, offering a smile, "Yes."

                "Cool. Last floor by the right. That's the kitchen."

I took the direction which he described. It wasn't a hassle finding the kitchen despite how big the house was. After gulping the cold bottle of water till it halved, I burped. I felt satisfied.

Finding the route back to Keegan's bedroom was harder than I envisioned. The halls looked the same. The walls, the doors we passed. Everything. I didn't realize how similar it looked until now. Every corner I turned led me back to where I started, almost like a maze. I couldn't just get across.

I walked down the stairs, roaming my eyes around, taking in the paths I treaded on. The halls were dark marble floors and white walls, not a hand print or scuff mark anywhere. 

As I sauntered further, the lights began to dim. Darker and darker it got as I descended the stairs. The doors at my my either sides were all closed except for one. It wasn't properly shut. I expected a ray of light coming from the room to infiltrate the stairs but that never happened.

Deeps groans and grunts emanated from the room. A faint ray of light drifted from the top of the ceiling, kissing the room medial. Above all, the room entirety was dimly lit. I could barely see through the space. There were shapes in monochrome. Though, the light was enough for me to notice the silhouette of an exceptionally tall bulky frame ruining a cylindrical bag hanging from the ceiling with his fists. I knew. I just knew. It was him. Even in the pitch black darkness. I could tell. In a crowd thronged with a thousand persons, he wouldn't go unnoticed by me. From his miens. His aspects. They were recognizable. They were unmistakable.

His moves were fast. His demeanour screamed fright. I watched his body move with such visciousity. So much brutality in every hit, every blow, every punch. Each and everyone of them told a story. Like he was beating out a gruesome torment from his bones. Muscles flexing and contracting. Cruel and without mercy.

Suddenly, he froze. I fidgeted. Like the suspended moment before a glass shattered to the ground.

Panic stricken, I willed my legs to move. To leave. To just go anywhere. Anywhere away from him. My brain declined working in conjunction with my feet. Any logical thought were immediately whisked away as soon as they sprung up. They fell into the shallow parts of my mind never to resurrect again.

My feet stayed glued to the ground, immobile, transfixed. I was paralyzed. The very moment his deep voice penetrated through every fibre in my body, I knew. I just knew...

He...

Smelt...

Me.

               

  

             

               

                


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