CHAPTER 2

Coffee shops in town were bustling with people from taking a break from work and from college students who had nothing to do between and after classes that late lunch. Jae was in daze as she was tinkering with her phone at the moment until she left it slip from her hand and slammed her head between her arms on the table.

“Here you go.” Rayne got to her table with Jae’s favorite Mocha Frappuccino and her fair chair of the coffee shop’s signature Hot Chocolate “Where’s Paul?”

“She has work. And we did kind of reclined from being together all the time years ago, remember?” Jae lazily sat up and mixed her drink. She does not like the taste of whip cream itself so as long as it mix up she can take it.

Rayne watched her carefully, seeing her lazy and spaced out indicates there was something wrong. Jae was one of her talkative friends, and when they are alone and with in a crowd, she's quiet, but when she’s silent when there was only the two of them, something was out of place. Jae was still stirring her drink, clicking her phone to life minute after minute, sighing every now and then.

“What’s wrong?” Rayne can’t take it anymore

Jae turned up to her still contemplating with the question, until she shook her head and stared at her drink “Just waiting for this to melt down.”

“You’re waiting for Aaron to text you, huh?” Rayne took a sip of her drink

Jae looked up at her with her eyes, knowing she can’t hide anything from the girl. If there was someone between them who supposed to always space out it always be Rayne, but apparently they switched roles lately, ever since Rayne had gotten a regular job as an Electronics and Engineer at some Innovative Company around town.

“How long was it since your hangout?”

“I’m not waiting for him to text me.” Jae was in denial

“Pfft. Yeah right.” Rayne snorted “Paul can’t even make you go like this when both of you broke up.”

Jae sighed again and stole a glance at Rayne who was looking out at the people passing by as she took another sip of her hot chocolate; “It’s already been a week.” Rayne turned to her as she spoke “I told you it won’t work. He just amused Mr. Simon’s idea.”

“But he gave you a book and drive you home.”

“Yeah, just a book and common courtesy. Maybe he felt bad from making fun of me that day.” Jae slouched on her chair as she finally took a drink

“You know, you’re making a big deal out of this,” Rayne chuckled as she placed her drink on the table “I thought you don’t care.”

“Well I did.” Jae rolled her eyes in irritation “But someone placed the idea in my head to give it a chance.”

Rayne felt guilty about that and remembered their talk at the airport. She sheepishly smiled at Jae and apologized, but still concerned at how Aaron had taken a toll on Jae once again. He did have that great effect on her, friends or not. She was utterly curious why Aaron had obliged to spend a day with Jae. Did he forgot that Jae had a massive crush on him way back in grade school and high school?

"Anyway," Jae straightened as she turned to her phone for the time "I have to go. We'll meet you later right?"

"Yup, I'll be there."

Aaron on the other hand was at his office, he has his head leaned up on his swivelling chair, his eyes closed and thinking. He has his phone in his hand, twirling it with his fingers. He seems to impatient, he kept on grumbling and sighing. Luckily he was on break, there were only a few people around to witness how agitated he was.

He shot up from his thoughts when someone smacked the back of his chair and a friend of him sat down in front of the computer next to him with coffee in hand “What’s eating you up man?”

“Nothing.” Aaron sat up straight and trying to be distracted on his computer. He opened up his facebook account and to be greeted with a notification tag from Mr. Simon. He opened up the image and it was the picture he took back at the Pizza Joint they had lunch at with Jae. He kept staring at her picture, she was so simple yet so attractive. She had this glint in her eyes that gives out sadness and happiness at the same level. He can’t help but be allured to her this time and he does not know why. He did not realize he had already had his arm propped up on the table to support his head and he kept on fidgeting with his phone on the other.

“Got that girl to keep you up your toes?” The guy woke him up from his thoughts again

Aaron sat up straight and closed the window. He cleared his throat in embarrassment and started his work. He swallowed the lump in his throat and decided to talk about it, maybe it will help for him to loosen up a little. “Somehow.”

“Who’s she?”

“A childhood admirer.”

“You got a chic as an admirer back then? Did it work out?” The guy was surprised

Aaron turned a glare at him and then chuckled “She wasn’t a chic back then.” The guy just smiled “When I saw her last week I did not know what got into me. This teacher left, suggesting for us to hang out go on a date and I obliged even when she protested -”

“She protested to go out with you!?” The guy was surprised “She's hella something… why did she protested?”

Aaron turned to him once again with a smirk and shook his head “If you weren’t a best friend of mine I won’t be telling you any of this stories.” The guy just chuckled as he was typing something about a report for a meeting after break time.

“As I said awhile ago, she was an admirer. She had a crush on me since fifth grade,” He gestured to his friend from interrupting “I just found it out in sophomore year when she asked a classmate of mine to hand me this long secret admirer letter, my classmates made fun of it, made fun of me and her. They replied to it on their own and I let them.”

“What did they wrote?”

“Harsh words. That she was stupid and freaky. That she’ll never stand a chance and she thanked her for giving them something to laugh at.”

“Harsh… too harsh.”

“The whole school knew about it.” Aaron cringed at the memory “The funny thing is, just because of that, I forgot the friendship we build way back in third grade. She was always there for me, making me laugh, looking out for me, taking my temperature if I’m sick. Even taking my late night phone calls just to answer my questions on assignments even if she’s annoyed. She was practically one of my best friends back then.”

Aaron kept on flashing back at the good memories he had with Jae, even if she act weird and nerdy back then, he always had a good time with her. She would build up characters from movies in class and manipulate them to follow. He could not forget how she managed to play Harry Potter roles from time to time in class. She even made friends to one of their gay classmate from teasing about something. Back then, even if people see her as a laughing stock, she doesn’t mind. She just had fun, laugh, and play. She does not mind being a freak of nature as the whole school see her. He smiled at the thought of seeing their former classmates’ faces when they saw her now in person. She’s totally different.

“She seems interesting. And no wonder she tried to run away from you that day. She must be scared seeing you again.” His friend spoke

Aaron just smiled. His friend turned to him with a puzzled look and asked “So what’s bothering you?” What’s bothering me? I am also asking the same question to myself. “I don’t know. I know a week was still a little short. But I asked her to be friends again, to start anew. Told her if she needs anything, a company or whatsoever, she can give me a call or a message.” What's wrong with me? I shouldn't be thinking about this. Maybe that suggest of going out on date had made an imprint in my head.

"Give it some time." His friend assured him "And to get you out of this, let's go out tonight with the gang. They got tickets to this comedy bar we once had gone to."

Aaron nodded in agreement. He needs a better distraction. And hopefully his mind will finally realize that it should not suppose to bother him at all.

“Hey! There’s my bitch!” A gay from one of the tables came shouting against some loud music in a bar waving at Jae and Rayne who just had their entrance

“Hey Aki!” Jae gave him a hug

Jae turned to the female company Aki had brought, “Hey Bianca how are you doing?”

“Hi girl, doing great. Drinks?” She waved at a waiter

Jae and Rayne grab a seat and turned their attention on the event happening on stage while talking and laughing with Aki and Bianca from time to time. It was pretty rare for Aki to pick a bar that was mostly stage presence. He usually go for bars with dancing and getting wasted. Jae had accepted an invite from him to a said bar once and he got wasted big time. She and Bianca had to bring him home.

“Does anyone want to come up and sing for us? Just ask one of the waiters for a slip of paper and they’ll do the rest.” The host started encouraging people

Rayne turned to Jae with an encouraging smile. Jae just waved her off, but Aki and Bianca kept insisting for her to and had called out a waiter for her line up. They decided on a party song she usually sung at karaoke when they hang out. She had been singing on stage since she was in college across town for a performance at a mall her friends had produced. She also had a one time stage when her mom also got invited at a said bar and she could not say no. So ever since then she had been waving encouragements from her friends but to be real, it doesn’t bother her anymore.

Aaron and his gang had been to their second round of bucket of beer and were laughing at some jokes the host had come up with. They had new girls in the group and were flirting one of the boys and Aaron was no exception. He didn’t mind at all since he was single and the alcohol taking a bit of effect on him.

“Want to go somewhere after this?” The girl who was flirting with him seductively whispered in his ear

“I’ll think about it.” Aaron smiled at her

The girl who was up from the stage for a song had already came down after some teasing and laughing with the hosts. “Alright, next up is Jae, come up please.” Jae got from her seat with cheers from her friends. She shook her head awake from her nervous strike and run up the stage and was handed with a microphone.

“What are we singing dear?”

“Ailee’s U&I, if you have it.” Jae answered

“It’s a korean song, am I right?” The host asked

Jae nodded in excitement. She clutched her microphone, waiting for the music to start.

“I presume you’ll be dancing for us as well, Korean’s are well known for singing and dancing.” The host started to make Jae relax

“We’ll see.” Jae chuckled, the music started “Hey~! Yeah yeah~ Oh my mind~”

People started cheering. Rayne, Aki and Bianca can’t help but party it out for Jae. And as the host predicted, Jae was starting it with some moves. People could not believe the performance she was showing. She does not plan to be just like any other bar goers who just go up and sing. She was taught to give all her best when she was on stage and she loves it.

“Hey Aaron,” He’s friend tapped his shoulder “Isn’t that your chic admirer?”

Aaron tore his attention from the girl who was flirting with him to look. His eyes widened to see Jae up the stage dancing and singing to a Korean Song. He heard the name a while ago but did not bother to look since Jay was a pretty common name. But seeing what was on stage at the moment amazed him. Definitely she was not ordinary. She was a total performer on stage, she was taking over and the host was liking what she was doing. And at the last beat of the song she took the last pose and took a bow that received a standing ovation and whistles from other bar goers.

“She’s totally a bomb, I tell you.” His friend broke him from his trance

He shove him, hoping he won’t hit on Jae anytime soon. He does not want to think his best friend having feelings for Jae.

“Wow, what a great performance that was!” The hosts were really taken a back “Have you been doing this a long time? It does not look like an ordinary karaoke singing.”

Jae was panting and was handed some water “I’ve been performing every summer at a mall across town.” She smiled, she was overwhelmed by the stage and she was having a great time. The host was still speechless and smiled “We can’t just let you go down the stage with just one song, can you sing another one?”

“Sure,” Jae nodded “Ariana Grande’s Problem? If you do me the honor to duet with me.”

“No problem with that, girl.” The guy host felt honored

The host cued the music and Jae’s eyes and expression changed once again. Music was taking all over her body and soul that people was loving her on stage. It was the first time for her to feel that way. It was the first time she had sang a party song in front of people and they were jumping for her. It felt like a dream she had, having a concert of her own. The hosts were dancing around with her as she run around the stage to play with them.

“I got one less, one less problem! Yeah~”

“Woohooo!!! Go JAE!!!” Aki and Rayne kept shouting

The hosts were really proud to have Jae on stage. They can’t help but make her last longer. They requested another Ariana Grande song which Jae had obliged and it was Break Free.

“If you want it, take it

I should've said it before

Tried to hide it, fake it

I can't pretend anymore”

Aaron’s friends started standing with the crowd as they dance with the beat with Jae amazing magnet.

“I only wanna die alive

Never by the hands of a broken heart

Don't wanna hear you lie tonight

Now that I've become who I really are”

Flashes of memories came running in Jae’s mind. Every pain she had gone through with people and with life. She had wanted to forget all of it and face through it.

“This is the part when I say I don't want ya

I'm stronger than I've been before

This is the part when I break free

'Cause I can't resist it no more”

She was happy jumping and partying on stage as if she belongs. She felt free from the world she had tried running away from. For a moment she was loving every bit of it. She can’t think any worry that can ruin her fun.

“You were better, deeper

I was under your spell

Like a deadly fever, yeah, babe

On the highway to hell, yeah”

There was no one who can hold her back from her dreams. She was standing for her own. Rayne and the others were proud of her to see her taking over the stage as was suppose to. Everyone was having fun.

“I only wanna die alive

Never by the hands of a broken heart

Don't wanna hear you lie tonight

Now that I've become who I really are”

Aaron could not understand his amazement for the girl he once avoided. She was definitely a mystery to him from the day he saw her at their old school. She still had some insecurities readable around her, but she was obviously fighting with it.

“This is the part when I say I don't want ya

I'm stronger than I've been before

This is the part when I break free

'Cause I can't resist it no more”

His best friend could not hide his smile from Jae. He was mesmerized of her being on the stage. He definitely knew from the picture he saw on Aaron’s facebook that she was going to be an interesting girl. And he had no idea why Aaron had not seen it before. Even though with the stories of her being a laughing stock, it was obvious now she wasn’t. She had climbed up the ladder and he could not help and think what will other people who had put her down say at the moment.

“No more, baby, ooh

Thought on your body

I came alive

It was lethal

It was fatal

In my dreams it felt so right

But I woke up every time”

People started cheering, Aaron could feel that his smile seems to be ripping his face. He can’t help but enjoy Jae’s stage.

“Oh, baby

This is the part when I say I don't want ya

I'm stronger than I've been before

This is the part when I break free

'Cause I can't resist it no more”

The song was nearing the end and Jae knew she would have to end her short dream. Aaron tapped his friend shoulder as he stood and made his way to the crowd.

“'Cause I can't resist it no more”

The song ended with a deafening applause from all the people who enjoyed her stage. Jae can’t help but squeal in delight. The hosts hugged her and kept giving her a pat on the back with her awesome performance. They were asking for her to come sometime again to have fun. They love sharing the music with her. She took a last bow to her lovely audience and went down the stage and was surprised to be wrapped around in strong arms who twirled her around before placing her back on the floor.

“That was awesome.” A familiar voice said and turned her around, to her surprise it was Aaron with a handsome smile on his face. He was still hugging her by her waist close to him and she felt a blush crept up her face. She was thankful for the dim lights and some colored light from the stage. Her heart was beating fast to see the boy in front of her looking so amazed. She felt the world stop.

“A-a-aaron, thanks.” He finally let her go “What are you doing here?”

“Well, I was with some friends. You?” He was hearing his heart beat in his ears, he felt goosebumps, in a good way, talking to the girl

“I’m with some friends as well. Want to join us?”

Aaron nodded like a child being given some candy. Jae smiled at him and led him to their table and there he saw familiar faces of Rayne and Aki while a new face was introduced to him. Rayne, Aki, Bianca and some other people nearby kept on complimenting her and she can’t help but feel bashful from the attention.

“Long time no see Aaron.” Aki took Aaron’s presence

“Same here.” He smiled and also took notice of Rayne

They kept talking and laughing, still bringing back Jae’s stage time to time that made her really shy about it.

“Who’s the girl?” The girl who was flirting with Aaron earlier glared as she raised her bottle to gesture at her

“Someone who got Aaron’s interest.” Aaron’s best friend answered

Aaron leaned near Jae to make her hear him over the music “Need a lift home?” Jae turned to him with a shock and puzzled expression and was about to decline when Rayne kicked her from under the table “Sure.” Aaron smiled at her and excused himself to head back to his table “Just call my attention when you’re ready to go.” and then he was gone.

“Is he hitting on you?” Aki finally asked out of curiosity when Aaron was out of earshot

“What?” Jae chuckled and took a gulp of her beer “He’s just a friend.”

Aki snorted at her answer. For Aki being friends with a hot guy would be impossible to be just friends. He mischievously smiled at Jae, teasing her about it. He was proud somehow, since now Jae was being more fashionable than before. She still has that boyish charm, but at least she had ditched baggy pants and lousy shirts. Now she wears skinny jeans, shorts, tank tops, loose fashionable shirts and some skater boy kind of look.

“That was some progress.” Aaron’s best friend raised a bottle at him

Aaron got back to his seat and pushed away his bottle of beer, thinking of about driving after. He needs to sober up to safely drive; “What do you mean?”

“You run to hug her.” His best friend playfully shoved him

“I must be overwhelmed.” Aaron sheepishly smiled and tried to take interest to his other friends’ conversation to avoid his best friend’s teasing.

It had been late and Aaron’s friends started to pack up since they still had work the next day, Aaron glanced at Jae’s table and they were still having a good time. He got up from his seat to escort his friends out and made his way to Jae’s table “Hey…” Jae and the others turned to him and noticed his company had already left.

“If you want to go ahead, you can. We’ll just hail a cab.” Jae was concerned

“I can wait.” Aaron grab a seat and joined them “It will be rude to leave you guys when I offered a ride

Aki could see the concern in Jae’s eyes for holding up Aaron. He grabbed Jae’s beer bottle away from her and gestured “Go ahead. Leave Rayne to us, I’ll make sure she’ll get home in one piece.” Jae shook her head as she decline. She brought Rayne with her so she’s suppose to be the one to accompany her home, but Rayne grab her hand and gave it a gentle squeeze. She turned to her best friend and Rayne smiled at her “I’ll text you when I get home.”

“Really, I can wait. I don’t want to spoil the fun.” Aaron sheepishly smiled

“Oh, go on prince charming. Take my dear Cinderella away. I’ll make you guys some pumpkin carriage if I have to. Bitty babeetee boo.” Aki was making fun of them

“Boohoo. I prefer being Merida.” Jae bit back

“She doesn’t have prince.” Aki got confused

“I’m glad you get my point.” Jae laughed at his reaction

Aki playfully glared at her and started pushing her off her feet and tossing her coat to Aaron. He was kicking them away that made Aaron snicker at him. Seeing how Aki behaves like that, it seems like he thought that Aaron was making a move on Jae. Well he does wants to be friends with her once again.

“What do you think?” Rayne asked Aki

“A none so fairy tale, but still an interesting love story.” He took a big gulp of his beer “Cheers to my bitch getting a hot guy.”

Bainca laughed out loud with how Aki was shipping Jae and Aaron so hard. He had only seen the two together that day, but he was sure enough that they’ll end up being together. Much to Rayne’s amusement, she was somewhat scared for Jae. She had witnessed her friend go on roller coaster ride of emotions every time she falls in love. And she does not want to see that again. She was afraid of Aaron hurting Jae so much, the girl will have the hard time to pick herself up again.

Jae had just currently got up on her feet and was living her life the way she should be. But if life keeps on playing on her like that, Rayne was afraid of what Jae would become. She definitely needs to keep an eye out for her best friend. She was positive about Jae being protective of herself, but there’s no harm in protecting her as well. They’re like sisters anyway, and sisters look out for each other.

“Sorry about that.” Jae apologized for what Aki had done

“Don’t worry about it. I find it amusing.” Aaron opened the car door for her

Jae hesitantly hopped in and pulled out the seat belt. Aaron turned to her from the driver’s side and apologetically smiled “Sorry to end your fun.” Jae turned to him, his question was slowly processing in her head “Ah. n-no. That’s o-okay. I need to go home early anyway. I still have things to be done.” She smiled assuringly at him. He nodded in response and drive off.

When they reached Jae’s house, Aaron turned to her with determination, I need to do this. What if she doesn't text me again and instead of a week it becomes a month? Aargh, why am I making a big deal out of this. It’s not like I have feelings for her. “Do you want to hang out this Saturday? After lunch? You know, watch some movie or something.” Jae was on the process of untangling herself from the seat when she turned up to Aaron “Sure.” Aaron felt his heart jump at that. He did not expect Jae to answer that quick.

“Great. So I’ll -”

“We’ll meet up at the mall.” Jae interrupted him

"I can pick you up.” Aaron protested

“Don’t get me wrong Aaron, but are you considering Mr. Simon’s suggest?” Jae smirked at him, but herself was being nervous with the question

Aaron was taken aback from that and coughed as he was caught off guard. Jae chuckled at his reaction and told him to calm down since she was just joking. “We’ll meet up, no ifs and buts.” She was about to get down “And no car.” She smiled for that plan made Aaron’s mouth drop open. Jae patted his cheek in amusement and got out “See you on Saturday.” Aaron finally laughed at what happened. He was totally out of his wits when Jae asked the question. He didn’t really thought about Mr. Simon’s suggestion anymore. He just wanted to get in her world without knowing why. He watched Jae walked in their residence before he went on his way home.

Friday came by and Aaron was at his office, searching out some movies they could watch the next day. His best friend glanced at his monitor and got curious “Found something nice?” Aaron turned to him and sheepishly smiled “Yeah, but I have no idea what she wants to watch tomorrow.”

“Preparing for a date I see.” He teased “Is it the admirer chic.”

“It’s not a date and she has a name, Brad, it’s Jae.” Aaron pushed Brad away from prying some details on him

Brad laughed at how Aaron blushed at just mentioning the word date. He can’t get enough entertainment by just watching the guy get worked up with the current events. He knew Aaron was taking things slow but seeing him not realizing something made Brad want to watch on the side lines. He propped up his elbow on his table and placed his head on his hand as he smirked at Aaron “Good luck bro.” Aaron ignored his teasing and was still searching for a good movie to watch.

Jae was with Gil that day since she had nothing to do in particular and Rayne has work. Kennie seems to be always busy and Leigh had her mood swings once again. She was being a company to Gil since Drake has a job that day. Even though he wanted to take time and ask for a leave, he can’t afford the toll it will take on his pay check.

“What are we doing again?” Jae asked Gil while they were roaming around a clothes store

“I’m buying Drake a gift.”

“And why?”

“I just want to.” Gil was getting excited

Jae watch her friend being in love. She had already pushed the memory of the feeling of being in love at the back of her mind. And seeing Gil acting like she was seeing at the moment made her wonder why love can get you all stupid and giggly. She laughed at her own thought.

“So I heard you and Aaron had met.”

Jae had her eyes widened at that piece of information Gil had known. Gil laughed at Jae’s reaction, she was happy with Jae meeting Aaron again, hoping that it was finally the love Jae was waiting for “I bet you have not gone on facebook lately.” Jae nodded at her statement “Yeah, I’ve been on Tumblr lately, why?” Gil continued her search of some shirt for Drake and answered Jae’s question “Apparently Mr. Simon had upload a photo of you three at a Pizza Joint near the school.” So, it was already out of the blue then.

“And?”

“And people at our batch are talking about it.”

“Old habit die hard, don’t they?” Jae sighed in disappointment. It was like school days all over again. People making fun of a gossip her relationship with the guy she had a crush on for years. Starting a new friendship with Aaron was not the only thing that will be starting anew, it will also be the gossip of people who has no life but to meddle with other people’s business.

Gil turned to Jae who was getting bored looking at clothes and was looking out for somewhere to sit. She smiled at how her friend had changed for all the years had passed. She was proud of her, and also a little too sad. Because Jae had finally got back up, but she had also closed her world to other people. She kept pushing them away. She linked her arms with Jae and started pulling her “Let’s take a break and have some ice cream.” Jae was surprised with Gil and sometimes this let’s go and eat deals were more of a let’s talk.

“So, will you tell me what happened?” Gil had claimed their ice cream from the counter and slid at her side of the booth

“Nothing actually. Mr. Simon just happened to get us to eat out with him, that’s all.” Jae was poking her ice cream without looking at Gil

“If you say so.” Gil started to take interest on her share but her tone was obvious that she knows there was something more that made Jae guilty for hiding something “Mr. Simon suggested for us to hang out, so we did. He suggested we start a new friendship.” Gil was obviously happy with what she heard. Aaron was giving Jae a chance of a life time. Jae noticed it and stopped her “Don’t even dare think this is a chance for my feelings. I’m not in love with him anymore.” Gil was about to protest “And I hate the attention I'm getting just because of this. Got it?” Gil nodded with a pout as she slouched like a puppy who got scolded.

“But Jae -”

“Gil, please.” Jae begged but felt guilty “I’m sorry. Tell you what, you don’t need to worry about anything. Rayne already talked to me about it. And I’m not pushing him away. I’m meeting him tomorrow for a movie, okay?”

Gil’s eyes widened with the information and obviously it hyped her. Jae saw that on her face and soon regret crept up. She pinched her nose bridge and shook her head. She could not believe any of this. If Gil was reacting this way, how will others react. She doesn’t even want to start thinking Kennie and Leigh’s reaction. If anyone of them has the normal reaction, it was Rayne. She was more sane than any of them.

“Let’s go shop some new clothes for you.”

“Gil, we don’t - “ Gil got up “have to.” Jae raised her hand in defeat “And now she’s gone.” She threw a minor tantrum by flinging her arms in the air and stomping her feet but followed Gil out of her will.

Gil was already looking for a dress for Jae to wear, she wanted her friend to be stunning on her date. But she wasn’t looking for anything fancy or too girly. A top and some skater skirt will be fine as long as Jae can handle it. Surely she will.

“Gil, if you want me to wear a dress, I have one at home. If you still remember the picture I took with a fedora hat on.” Jae wanted her to stop

Gil shook her head, she doesn’t want Jae to wear something all black. She then settled with a cute shirt top and a blue skater skirt. She held it up against Jae and gave a sign of approval. She skipped to the counter with Drake’s gift in hand. Jae followed her down and was giving some money, but Gil told her it was gift.

Jae chuckled at how her friend was really into this than she was “You do have an idea I’m not into a mood to decline your offer right?”

“I clearly do.” Gil laughed

The time Jae got home, she placed the paper bag on her desk and jumped down on her bed. She grabbed her phone from her pocket and scanned for some message. There was one from Gil telling Jae she had gone home safely, and there was one from Rayne, replying about what she had messaged her about Gil’s doing and then her heart skip a beat. There, Aaron’s name was highlighted. He sent her a message: We’re still on for tomorrow?

Yup. Jae replied

She tossed her phone to her side and rolled on her bed and stared up to her skylight. Stars were shimmering above her and she remembered she kept looking up the stars when she was in love with Aaron. She loved the stars and she love making a wish from them. She laughed at her thought of them granting her wish a little too late. But then again maybe they weren’t too late. Her thoughts were broke off when her phone started ringing “Hello?”

“Hey…” Jae sat up in a quick motion when she heard the voice, she checked if she was hallucinating or something and it was no doubt “Aaron?”

“Yeah, sorry.” Jae could clearly hear a smile behind those

“Why’d you call?” Jae asked

“I have no idea, really. But I was wondering if you’d like to watch BigHero6 tomorrow? I checked out some movies for this year, but it seems there’s nothing good, I mean The Minions would be out at the end of the year. And we could watch it together if you want. And then there are horror movies, I don’t know if you like them. And there were action and love stories… and-”

“I get it.” Jae laughed at his blabbering

“Sorry.” This time he was clearly embarrassed

“I can go with anything. I do love seeing Baymax again.” Jae unconsciously giggled on the phone

Aaron felt his heart skip, hearing her talk on the phone. Lump on his throat kept on appearing he was having a hard time swallowing it silently. He just called her out of the blue when she replied to him. He was even having a hard time understanding his actions lately “It feels like nostalgia, doesn’t it? It’s like yesterday I was calling you for an assignment we have during fifth grade.” The line at Jae’s end was silent “Hello? Are you still there?” He checked his phone just in case he didn’t realize the call had ended “Hello?”

“I-I-I can’t believe yu-you remember that.” Jae has her hand clenched over chest as she had felt her heart jump and had trouble breathing

Aaron smiled at her stuttering. He can’t help but be amused at how he caught her off guard “Well, you were a friend of mine.” He blushed and hit his head. What am I saying? Were? “Ah… uhm… well, goodnight.”

“Goodnight.” Jae replied

Both of them hang up and fell on their beds. Jae grabbed her stuffed toy and squeezed it as she curled up into a ball. Why am I getting all mushy just hearing his voice? Why am I acting like a teenager in love? I got to get things straight. I can’t be me from the past all over again. I’m not in love with him and I know I’m not. We’re just getting the best of it because of memories. Once we talk about the admirer thing I know definitely we’ll know this is just for friendship.

Aaron was lying on his back and was staring up on his ceiling. He can’t believe how fast his heart was beating in his chest. It was as if it wanted to get out. He placed his hand above it, feeling it and praying for it to calm down. He does not understand any of it, and he does not want it. Why am I feeling this way? Am I taking Mr. Simon’s idea seriously? Should I end it before someone gets hurt? I don’t even know if I’m doing the right thing now. He placed his arm over his eyes. But I feel joy overwhelm me. I hope this is a good thing. Please, make this a good thing.

Saturday came by almost instantly. Jae was standing in front of her mirror as she had worn the top Gil gave her tucked in to the skater skirt. She pulled her hair up into a ponytail as she let her bangs fall swiftly to the left of her face, slightly covering her left eye. She let some hair loose near her side burn to make it naturally messy. She was about to grab some eyeliner when she stopped herself and hated it “Why am I getting worked up with this? This is not a date. It clearly isn't. I even told him it’s not. Indirectly, but still.” She growled in frustration as she let herself fall to one of her bean bags and covered her face.

Aaron on the other hand had already been into his seventh change of shirt, and at his fifth on his pants to shorts. He was also on the edge of losing his self from making a big fuss of just hanging out. It’s not like they need to impress each other. If they are going to be friends, they need to be naturally comfortable around each other. He then finally grabbed a baseball shirt and some jean shorts. He topped on a jersey jacket and a cap placed backwards on his head. He took a last look at himself and was about to grab his car keys when he remembered Jae’s condition not to bring a car. He then grabbed his wallet and headed out.

Jae had finally collected herself after browsing some stuff in tumblr and messaging Rayne. She finally got up and grabbed her shoulder bag and coat.

“I’ll be out for the day mom! Be back later!”

“Be careful honey!” Her mom called out from the kitchen

Aaron was already at the cinema and had bought their tickets and popcorn. He was browsing on his phone for a place to eat after the movie when a girl in blue skirt stood beside him. He thought it was just someone trying to flirt with him but when he turned, he was surprised to see Jae. He almost stumbled at her presence and checked her out from head to toe.

“Do I look weird?” Jae suspiciously looked at him

“N-no.” Aaron shook his head and he can’t deny that he felt something warm on his face. He bet he was already embarrassingly turning into a tomato. He stood up straight and was avoiding eye contact with her. Jae was still staring at him with puzzlement. She had no idea was Aaron got tensed. Is he regretting this? He can back out if he wants to.

“Let’s go.” Aaron started walking towards the cinema in a quick pace that Jae had to run to his side to keep up with him

Once they were in and was waiting, Jae turned to him once again. Aaron noticed her intention and turned away, feigning at something on his armchair. Jae leaned out forward to take a look at his weird actions and was narrowing an eye at him. He was leaning back further, seeing how her creamy legs were in view at the corner of his eyes and her face being amused about his weirdness.

“What’s wrong with you? It’s not like it’s the first time you see me in a dress or something.” Jae leaned back as she chuckled

“It’s not about that!” Aaron unconsciously shouted

Jae turned to him in shock and ended up laughing out loud.Aaron was glaring at her and leaned back as he rest his head on his propped up arm. “Shut up, or else…” Jae turned to him, leaning down on the armrest between them, close enough to see his face. “Or else what?”

Aaron turned to her and their eyes met, he felt a blush dominated his face, and if not for the dim yellow light in the cinema, he would look like a tomato in front of her. He averted his gaze and cleared his throat “The movie’s starting.” Jae smirked at him and leaned back to her chair.

Aaron was fascinated how Jae can get engrossed in a movie. Her eyes were shimmering with excitement and sadness whatever the movie was predicting the emotion should be. He was even enjoying how she just accepts the popcorn he would reach out to her mouth. When the credits where finally over, Jae stretched out her limbs like she was a child. then started squealing and was making baby noises “Baymax is so cute.” Aaron’s eyes widened in amusement as he watch Jae being childish because of the movie. She had her hands to her mouth and sheepishly grinned at Aaron “Sorry.” Aaron just chuckled at her and couldn't help his self and pinched her cheeks.

“Ouch.” Jae slapped his hand away as she playfully glared, she tried to reach his cheeks for revenge but Aaron caught her wrist

“Hungry?” He asked as he lowered her wrist to his chest

Jae nodded and retrieved her arm. They got up as they grab their trash and toss it in the garbage can along the exit doors. They were walking side by side as they got comfortable with each other. Aaron wanted to treat her at some Japanese restaurant in the mall, but Jae insisted to just settle down at the food court below the cinema. They were having a good time talking about anything they could think of. It was like they have known each other for the rest of their lives that they can just throw random thoughts at each other and blend in. They were complete opposites, yet they seem to be on track.

Aaron kept on staring at her, watching her every move like he was watching something in slow motion. Every smile she turns towards him made his heart skip, every laugh she makes made his heart dance. Every piece what she does were like sweet scents that Aaron could not understand for it gives him entirely different good emotions creeping up his body. Just a little touch from her sent shivers down his spine. He couldn't help but see so many different things from the girl he once avoided. Maybe this is a good thing. Maybe I did the right thing.

“Jae,”

“Hmm?”

“Would you consider us going on a d-” He was cut off when Jae retrieved her ringing phone from her bag, she turned to him apologetically and answered her phone “Hello?” Aaron then realized what he was about to ask. His eyebrows furrowed and was questioning his self from the idiocy he could have placed his self. He silently thanked whoever was on the phone with Jae for interrupting. He had no idea if she’ll freak out if he had finished the question.

“Yeah, no problem... Hurry up... Okay… bye.” Jae hang up and turned to Aaron “A friend of mine will be joining us, is that okay?”

Aaron was taking a sip of his drink when he turned to Jae, he nodded and placed it back on the table “Yeah, no problem.” That was what he wished, It kind of disappointed him that after hours of being together, someone will join them. After some random conversation, Aaron noticed a tall guy approaching their table with a smile. Before he could even warn Jae, the guy had already covered Jae’s eyes and whispered “Guess who.”

“Quit it Tom.” Jae smirked

Tom removed his hand and let it fall on her shoulder. Jae turned up to him with a smile and invited him to take a seat. Aaron was still watching them and forced a smile when Jae finally introduced them to each other. Tom was Jae's college best friend and he seems to be hanging out with her from time to time when he was in town. He lives three hours away from the city and turns out Jae obliged for them to meet that day because it was hard to squeeze in his schedule.

“Have you eaten?” Jae asked him

“No, actually.” Tom looked at them “How about you guys?”

“We've just finished.” Aaron answered

Tom felt sorry, but Jae insisted for him to by his food since they weren't in any hurry. Tom excused his self and looked around for his late lunch.

“You both seem close.” Aaron told him his observation

Jae turned to him while her bottom lip was between her teeth, “Ah, yeah. He’s like a brother.” Aaron noticed the shimmer in Jae eyes that was not there before. If he doesn't know any better, he was thinking Jae had feelings for this Tom. So he tried to confirm it “Do you have feelings for him?” Jae laughed at his question. She was laughing so hard that tears was brimming her eyes “You are not serious with that question, are you?” But Aaron was just staring at him with a straight face. Jae felt a little nervous seeing him acting that way. She straightened her composure and shook her head no “No, why’d you ask?”

“You seem to cheer up more when he came.”

“Oh, that.” Jae chuckled “It’s just because after college, it’s hard to hang out with him like we always do.”

Just in time, Tom got back with his tray of food. And started talking animatedly with Jae and they were laughing their lungs out and seems to forgot they were with someone who does not know what they were talking about. But Tom seems to realize it from time to time and turn to Aaron as he started grilling them. Tom knew who he was, Jae told him stories about how she loved the guy for years.

“So, you’re a friend from High school?”

Aaron nodded; “Yeah, actually we've known each other since grade school.”

“So… you both just happen to meet up and hang out?” Tom was trying to pry something out of Aaron

“Something like that. Catching up from an old friend.”

Tom smirked at that as he took some fries to his mouth. He turned to Jae with a smirk and raised eyebrow, scheming something in his mind. Jae glared at him and pushed his face away “Stop it Tom, it’s not like you.” Tom laughed at her reaction “Hey, give me a break. You did always grill me about girls back then.”

“Then you should be asking me, not him.” Jae bit back

“Well, I have my ways.” Tom stuck out a tongue

Jae sighed and averted her attention to inviting them “Let’s go and play.” She got up and was cheering on her own “Arcade time, baby!” Tom laughed at her again as he got up to her side. Aaron could not believe how he was getting shoved to the side. He was about to protest being out of place when Jae turned to him with a smile and reached out her hand to him. She comfortably pulled him to her side so the three of them can walk together. Aaron looked flustered at her sudden physical contact.

“You should get used to her.” Tom noticed “She likes getting physical.” And it earned him enough force on his shoulder from Jae

Aaron looked at them suspiciously and Tom had read his facial expression. Jae blushed and was stealing glances at Aaron, but completely avoiding eye contact.

“Can anyone of you clear this shadow over me?”

Tom chuckled and was turning to Jae who was glaring at him. Tom patted Jae’s shoulder as he assured her “It’s not embarrassing.”

“I know, but you make it feel like one.”

“What is it?” Aaron was curious

“We just walk around campus hand in hand when we were starting our friendship. Turns out she does it with anyone she’s comfortable with.”

Aaron narrowed, “What's wrong with that?” Tom let Aaron watch his hand as he slid it into Jae’s, their fingers intertwined. He raised it up for Aaron to clearly see and asked “What will you think if you see us walking like this?” Jae was blushing from embarrassment and was trying to get her hand back, but Tom held it firmly as he let it down to their side and beamed down to Jae. He was batting his eyelashes at her like she always do to him when she needs something. Jae seems to calm down and snorted “I miss you too.” Tom chuckled at that as he released Jae’s hand and patted her head. He slid it down to her shoulder and pulled her to him into a side hug. Jae chuckled and also slid her arm around his waist as they continued their walk to their destination. Aaron could not believe what he was seeing, and if ever he gets close enough to Jae, they’d also be doing that comfortably. But he knows to himself that he would be comfortable. Not in a bad way, just… How do they do that?

They were having fun in the arcade, Aaron was impressed with Jae with the games they play, even at basketball, it was seldom for girls to be able to throw ball after ball into the basket. Tom would sometimes distract her as they pushed each other away. They then get to a racing game, and even though Jae went down to a third place, she did gave a pretty tough fight. She did admit she couldn’t go against two people who are more experienced in driving than she does. When they had run out of swipe cards, Aaron presented to buy and left them alone.

“How was it?” Tom leaned down to Jae’s level

“How was what?” Jae turned to him

Tom glanced at Aaron who was busy loading up their swipe card and was obviously stealing glances at them.

“You didn’t tell me you were hanging out with your first love.”

“Sorry your highness, I forgot to report it to you.” Jae was being sarcastic

Tom mocked a silent laugh at her and was still watching Aaron at the corner of his eyes, “You seem to have move on?” Jae turned her attention to the floor and nodded “But I still get a little giddy being around him.”

“What if he ask you out on a date?” Tom crossed his arms before his chest as he leaned down at one of the crane machines behind him

“He’ll never do that. We’re just hanging out as friends. And it’s just been two weeks since we've met again.”

"Two weeks is already long enough to fall for someone.”

“Well, sorry to burst you bubble buddy, I don’t fall for someone that easily.”

When Tom saw Aaron had finished his task and was on his way back, he extended his arm and snaked it around Jae’s waist and pulled her close to him, having her leaned down on him. She tried to push away, but he held her firmly on the spot, managing to balance both of them. They had their faces inches apart from each other and Jae was glaring at him “What are you doing?”

“Just doing some observation.” Tom smiled and playfully pinched her nose

"It’s weird for you to be touchy-feely, you know?”

“Why not? I’m doing something for my daughter.”

Jae chuckled at that. They did have some random family roles way back in college. The funny part was her mother was someone who was in denial of being gay. She then glared at him again and warned him through her gritted teeth “Do this again and I’m going to kick your balls, got it?” Tom nodded at her and was leaning a little close when Aaron cleared his throat. As if on cue, Tom turned to him in an act of shock but was still holding on to Jae.

Aaron had been watching them carefully as the two of them were having a conversation. The time he saw Tom’s arm snake around Jae, he felt agitated and very impatient at how slow the woman behind the counter. And when he got back and saw how Tom was leaning close to Jae’s face, he felt anger rise at the pit of his stomach and cleared his throat “Here.” He handed out the card.

Jae finally pushed Tom for her to get up on her feet and straightened her self. She collected the card from Aaron, as she was trying to avoid any physical or eye contact. She was purely distressed and blushing. What he saw wasn't a friend zone thing. It was purely something else, was Tom making a move that Jae doesn't even know?

Tom was getting really entertained from watching on the sidelines while manipulating people for the very first time. He got back up and smiled at them “I better be going now. Need to get through some rush hour.” Jae nodded as she tried shifting her mood. She was not used to Tom playing tricks on her. It was always the other way around. She was afraid that what Tom did would drive Aaron away, and she knew to herself she doesn't want that. The waters had finally cleared a path for her, and she won’t allow anything to get on her way now.

“See you around?” Tom turned to Jae to know if they were okay

“Yup, take care.” Jae turned to him with a smile

Tom patted Aaron’s shoulder as he walk right pass him. Aaron nodded at his gesture and watched him go. Tom took a last wave at Jae, and Jae waved a little and it went straight at the back of her neck as she rubbed it when Aaron looked at her. They were standing there, without budging. It felt so heavy, it was like someone had placed a pretty big block on their shoulder. But Jae realized it quickly and tried to bring up the atmosphere “Let’s go play some more.” She forcefully giggled and went quickly on her way to find something to play.

What’s wrong with me? I feel so cheated and angered. Aaron had thought to himself

He followed Jae to a punching game, and she was already placing the gloves in her hands. She was clenching her teeth and was staring right at the bag. And before he could speak, Jae had punched the bag so hard it broke the current record on the machine. Aaron’s jaw drop and was clearly frightened to see anger in her eyes. Was she disappointed when Tom left? Maybe she did have feelings for the guy.

I'm, hating Tom at the moment. Why did he do that? What if Aaron thinks I’m still a freak and permanently needs to stay away from. Aargh. This is getting me so frustrated. I’m going to kill him when we meet again. He better hide from me, I’m not letting Paul or anyone stop me from hurting him. She threw another hard punch on the bag.

“Hey, Jae?” Aaron backed off when Jae glared at him “Are you okay?”

Jae realized how tense she was and let her guard drop. She removed the glove from her hand and apologized “Sorry, I was just irritated.” She sheepishly turned to him and could see how his expression changed. He was distant now, he was obviously thinking of something to say. And Jae assumed he was already thinking how weird she was and probably he thought starting a friendship with her was a wrong move.

“Sorry, I became a hell of a freak again.” Jae can’t even look at him now

“What?” Aaron was surprised at her words. He wasn’t thinking anything close to that. He wasn't even thinking about anything negative about her. She’s not a freak, She's way better than what other people think. If he only had the guts, he would hug her more than the way Tom did. “You’re not a freak,”

“Yeah,” Jae returned the gloves “I hardly doubt that.” She was putting herself down

Aaron walked up to her, looking intently. Jae had her arms crossed before her as she looked away. She was biting her lower lip again, but this time out of frustration. She was also having the hard time, her breathing was deep and long, like someone calming them self or trying to make their breathing normal. Aaron followed his instinct and raised her chin up to make her look into his eyes. Jae felt the lump in her throat at how pure his eyes were, how sincere those orbs was trying to look into her soul.

“You’re not a freak, you hear? And don’t be afraid because I got scared or thought this is a bad thing, I’m not.” He smiled as he let his hand fall to his side, knowing Jae was listening “I’m actually happy.”

Jae opened her mouth to speak, but words were unable to escape. She decided to keep her silence and averted her gaze.

“Can we go home?” She asked

“Sure.” Aaron agreed “But I have to accompany you, okay?”

Jae nodded, too tired to argue about it. She walked away with her head hang low, not even bothering to wait for Aaron to catch up with her. She was too embarrassed, she almost burst out in tears a moment ago. She did not want him to witness her weakness. Everything should be kept behind a mask she won’t dare remove. She had already let it slip, she was determined to keep it in place. She needed to guard her self, one fall can break her into pieces that can never be fixed. Going through all the pain all over again would drown her to depths of darkness that will be hard to reach out to.

Aaron felt bad seeing her down for the first time. And being friends with her might be a burden for her and he just that thought. But even he wanted to do the right thing, if this friendship was giving her pain, he can’t leave her now. She might feel bad and believe in her own words. The day she entered Mr. Simon’s office, Aaron knew she was someone different. Different from what she used to be. There was something in her that will draw you near and would never leave.

They rode a cab home in silence and the time they reached Jae’s house, Aaron reached out to her arm and smiled “Don’t think too much of it.” Jae nodded and gave him a thankful smile.

Once the door closed, the cab driver turned to Aaron from the rear view mirror and asked in concern as he drove off “Had a fight with your girl?” Aaron narrowed an eyebrow with his question and realized what he meant, he quickly shook his head and answered with a bashful smile “She- she’s not ma-my… we’re not dating.” The cab driver looked surprised at that “Seriously? With a girl like her and a handsome boy like you?”

“Does it really need to be determined on looks?” Aaron whispered but good enough for the driver to hear

“Don’t get me wrong boy, I just thought I saw some spark between both of you. I thought both of you just had a fight.”

Aaron felt butterflies in his stomach. He tried to take interest at the houses and building they were passing by that night. The sparkle of lights reminded him of how Jae’s eyes glitter in joy. How emotions kept pouring within those dark glass.

I won’t go anywhere Jae. No matter how many of your friends reveal embarrassing moments of you. I do wonder when you’ll be comfortable enough for me to witness one of them. Good night. :)

Jae was on her mattress, thinking, when she received Aaron’s message. She couldn’t even look at the stars, ashamed that she had let them down. She was been wishing out to them and now she was ruining the chance they had given her. Orbs were drowning with the flood of emotion that was so hard to trap. It had been since locked up and the chest could not hold it up any longer. One wrong move and it will burst and can never be locked again. Once it escaped there’s no one, not even her can hold it back in sanity.

Sorry.