Chapter 1 Pain and sadness

Elise POV

Holding the award closely to my chest and remembering how awesome highschool was, brought joy to my heart. I heard my name, Elise Henry, the second time, being called to the platform to get another award. I was delighted, I got up immediately and went.

On my way back to my seat, I saw my best friend Jonas Hart holding the hands of his girlfriend, Rachael Frank. Immediately, I became gloomy, my heart tightened, I have loved him since I was 14. But he had never seen me that way.

I saw him smile my way, I smiled back and went to my seat which was next to my cousin who was also graduating with us.

After all the procession, my best friend came to me and congratulated me. He hugged me and I was so happy. I congratulated him too and left.

On my way home, my cousin Kiera Winters informed me of the party tomorrow to celebrate. I have never been to one, I had no boyfriend and I was ready to be free this once.

I got home, Kiera helped me pick a beautiful red party gown. I wore it and I looked hot. My cousin picked a green dress that was perfect for skin.

I went to get my hair done. Later Jonas visited and I told him about the party. Of course, he was going with Rachel, but I was surprised when he told me firmly not to go.

Why, I want to be free, I said

"No, trust me. Don't go!", Jonas insisted.

I left angrily to my room and locked the door.

Jonas POV

Staring at the shut door was painful. I didn't want to see her in the arms of any guy. I have always secretly chased boys from her.

I didn't want my love for her to destroy our friendship. I didn't want to loose her, so I started dating different girls.

I was angry at her but I would still protect her from the guys at the party. After awhile, I left the house and drove home.

While driving, Rachael kept calling me but I didn't want to talk to anyone. I felt so bad, "why can't she just listen?", I said.

I drove straight home, saw my mom in the kitchen, found my dad watching tv. I greeted numbly and they seemed to have noticed .

After awhile, I heard a knock on the door, I knew it was either mom or dad, so I didn't go to the door. "Please, go away, I don't want to talk", I begged.

"Hell no, Jon", I heard the familiar voice of my cousin say.

"Chris, I don't want to talk", I said

Instead of retreating, I heard a chuckle and I knew I was in for trouble.

"Why, why now?", I murmured.

Having no choice,I got up from the bed, walked to the door and unlocked it. Immediately, my cousin cute face came in view. I couldn't help but smile at her.

"Come in", I said.

She stopped and stared at me before she asked, "are you sure?. I can always see you later, you know".

I rolled my eyes, "oh, please. You knew I was sad and that's why you remained at the door".

"Really?", She said.

"Yes", I replied.

I turned to go back inside my room but I couldn't close the door, so I didn't even try to fight over it.

"Actually...., It's true", she said.

"What's true?", I replied.

"Of course, I knew you were sad, I saw when you came in", she said.

"Really?", I asked.

I couldn't believe she was in the living room when I passed and didn't notice anything different, more or less my favorite cousin.

"No,no way. It can't be possible", he said while thinking about it.

"So, what's wrong. You don't look good", Christabel asked.

"Um, it's nothing. I'm just tired", I replied hoping she doesn't sense the lie.

I was so wrong. The intense questioning I got, meant that she knew.

"So Chris, how's Aunty?", I said changing the topic.

"Well, since you don't want to talk about it, I won't force you. Whenever you're ready". Chris said

I was so glad she didn't inquire futher.

"Have some rest, mom sent your favorite chocolate. I'd give you tomorrow. How's Elise, mom sent something for her too. Good night", Chris said and left.

Elise...

I knew that the way I reacted was wrong and harsh. Elise must be upset.

I have to apologize immediately.

I called her number but she didn't pick up.

I couldn't let the night pass, so I texted.

After typing it, I reread it to make sure, it cleared the issue.

"Sent".

After sending, my heart began beating very fast. I was so anxious, I kept turning from one side of the bed to the other.

Sleep was so faraway, this night. I got up and went to get a glass of water. After drinking, nothing happened.

I had hoped that after drinking the water, I would sleep calmly. I was still so restless.

All I could think about was Elise.

Jeez, this was driving me crazy.

I returned back to my room, making sure not to make any noise. I got to my room and slumped on the bed, wishing for sleep.

This was going to be a very long night.

Since I couldn't sleep, I decided to do something meaningful. I got up, went to my desk.

I started working on some unfinished projects. After sitting for an hour, I was so tired.

The night was getting darker and darker but my eyes were so far from sleep. My eyes were still sharp and bright.

I knew my day was going to be hectic and I needed to rest but the opposite was happening.

While working, I kept checking my phone for a message or call from Elise but none came.

It was disappointing, so I decided to bathe and force my self to sleep when...