Chapter 6
Alina’s POV
I left the cafe leaving Ryan alone there, besides I didn't order anything so there's no need to feel guilty about that. Why is Ryan so curious about something that's already in the past, especially since it's embarrassing? He already knew it was an accident but he was still stubborn about wanting to take care of the matter again.
“You strange boy, what was so interesting about that night other than embarrassment. No work." I grumbled softly, pouring out my annoyance.
I quickened my steps while looking down to avoid anyone making fun of me on the way because of yesterday's cheerleading audition or because I had just finished meeting Ryan.
"Hey Alina, what are you two discussing?" The sound just sounded like that.
Without wanting to see who asked, I preferred to pretend I didn't hear and then ran away from there.
“Eh? Did he run away?” I can still hear his voice even though it's faint.
I went home by taxi and when I got home, I felt like I wanted to spend my time sleeping. After arriving home, I immediately went to my room. Tiredness and annoyance mixed together, making me want to immediately forget today's events. I threw the bag into the corner of the room and lay down on the bed. My mind was spinning, thinking about my meeting with Ryan and his never-ending questions. Not long after, a sound came from my cell phone, it turned out that my friend had sent me a message.
I read a message from him.
[Why didn't I see you on campus? Where are you now?]
Ask in the bubble chat.
I started typing a message answering his question.
[I'm home now.]
Then I sent the message and turned off my cell phone.
I finally cleaned myself, took care of my body from head to toe. At least by doing this act of self-love I finally don't have to worry too much about how many ways Ryan will come and discuss that night again tomorrow. I finished cleaning myself, feeling refreshed and a little better. Sometimes, taking care of yourself is the best way to forget all your worries for a moment. After making sure my hair was in order and my skin was soft, I stepped into the kitchen to meet Milo, my beloved female cat.
"Milo, come here darling," I called, snapping my fingers. Milo immediately came over to me, meowing softly. I stroked its soft fur, feeling a little calmer in its presence.
I grabbed some of Milo's toys and started playing with her, watching the excitement in her eyes as she chased the small ball I threw. While playing, my mind drifted back to my dreams that now felt far away. The dream of being a happy cheerleader, dancing and cheering with pom poms in hand, always full of enthusiasm at every game.
I took a deep breath, feeling heavy every time I thought about that night. "Why did it have to happen to me?" I muttered softly as I continued playing with Milo. She looked at me with round eyes, as if she understood my sadness.
But I know I can't stay stuck in this feeling forever. Maybe later, I'll have a second chance with a cheerleading audition. Even though I felt nervous, I had to try. I can't let one mistake ruin my whole dream.
"Milo, pray for me," I said, smiling faintly at my cat. She meowed in response, making me laugh a little.
I decided to prepare a light dinner, trying to divert my thoughts to positive things. While eating, I promised myself to focus more on what I could accomplish rather than what had happened. Ryan will probably keep trying to talk about that night, but I have to be strong and keep myself on track.
After eating, I went back to my room and prepared everything I needed for tomorrow's practice. I chose comfortable clothes and put all the equipment in my bag. While looking at my reflection in the mirror, I said firmly, "You can do it, Alina. Don't let anyone or anything get in the way of your dreams."
That night, I slept with a slightly lighter heart, hoping that tomorrow would be a new beginning for my buried dreams.
When night arrived, I decided not to eat because I had no appetite, I didn't even feel the slightest hunger. It felt like those two incidents really hit me, in the middle of my daydreaming about those two incidents, suddenly my doorbell rang. I'm confused about who would dare stop by my house at this hour. I also checked who was visiting from the digital door camera and it turned out it wasn't Michael, Emily, or Jessica. Turns out it was Mark. He's a good guy and he's the only one I know on Ryan's field hockey team.
Mark brought junk food, mango juice, and a gift box. I took a deep breath before opening the door. When the door opened, he smiled widely and greeted with a cheerful voice, as if nothing was wrong in the world.
"Hi, Alina! I brought some food and drink. I thought you might need a little entertainment," he said, lifting the paper bag and gift box he was holding.
“Mark, this is very sudden.” I said, trying to sound friendly even though I actually felt awkward.
"Yeah, I know. But I just felt that maybe you needed a friend. Can I come in?" he asked in a tone so sincere, it was hard for me to refuse.
"Okay, come in." I said finally, opening the door wider and allowing him to enter.
He walked into the living room and put his luggage on the table. "I brought burgers, fries, macaroni cheese and spicy fried chicken. Not sure if you like it, but I remember you saying this and mango juice were your favorites…before the diet." Mark then chuckled.
I smiled slightly, touched by his concern. “Thank you, Mark. You really don't need to bother.”
"Does not matter. I brought this too.” he said, holding up the gift box. “I thought this might cheer you up.”
I looked at the box curiously. "What's this?"
"Just open it." he said with a mysterious smile.
Carefully, I opened the box and was surprised to find my favorite skincare. I recognized the product packaging, a product that I often buy and review on social media.
“Mark, this... This is my favorite skincare!” I exclaimed, almost in disbelief.
"Yes I know. I often see your reviews on social media. I thought maybe you needed something to take care of yourself at a time like this.” He answered with a gentle smile.
I felt my heart truly moved, “Thank you, Mark. You are very considerate.”
"Alina, I know you're going through a lot. I can't imagine what it's like, but I want you to know that I'm here for you. We can talk or we can just sit in silence. Whatever you need." He said in a soft voice
His words touched my heart, and for the first time that night, I felt a little of the weight in my chest lift. "Thank you, Mark. That means a lot to me."
He smiled again but this time softer. "Come on, let's eat some. It might help."