₦airaland Forum

Her last wish continues @ toriperi

https://toriperi.com/her-last-wish-episode-1819/

Episode 17

Saturday*

“Saturdays are always so busy” Layla groan, lifting more cups of steaming coffee onto a tray.
“Today is extra busy” Aria set sugar cubes with tiny cartons of heavy cream alongside it and Layla rushed to serve it. She was yet to leave the table when more people walk in.
She asked for their order after they were seated and rushed back to the counter.

“Three Cortado and one cappuccino” She said to Aria and they both prepared it.
She rushed off once again to serve the customers while Aria brewed more coffee.

Phil stepped out of her office and was impressed at how filled her café was, there were just a few empty tables.
Her smile was more broad as she walked around, checking if her customers were okay and well served.
She grin when more people walk in.
“Go attend to them immediately” She shouted at Layla who was waiting for them to be seated.
“What do you care for Sir, Ma’am ?” Layla ask politely, after they were done going through the menu.
” Americano” The man said.
“Espresso” The lady said with a smile.
“Okay, it’ll be ready in few minutes” Layla smile before rushing off, singing ‘Espresso … Espresso … ‘ She had made it a habit to sing with the coffee name whenever someone ordered it, she loved pronouncing it because of the way it felt in her mouth.

“Espresso and Americano” Layla said to Aria leaving her to prepare it as she quickly walked to another table that required her attention.
The coffee was ready when she got back and she carried it and told Aria what the other table wanted.
She served the ma’am and sir and thought the lady was so cool with the way she smile often.

Aria already made the coffee ready for the other table and when Layla returned, all she did was pick it up and walk to the table.
“Thank you” The woman said curtly, turning back to her laptop as Layla place the coffee gently on her table.
That’ll be the fourth cup of coffee she’ll be having and it looked like she was struggling not to fall asleep as she worked on her laptop.
Layla felt so sorry for her.

She walked back to Aria after making sure there was no order left.
They both sigh deeply, glad they will have finally rest for few minutes.
“I’m just wondering . . . what if today had been the day you got the call from Jane’s school and I’m also away at school. How will Phil cope?” Layla wondered aloud and Aria laughed.
“Phil would never have coped with the stress, she’ll probably place a placard outside that reads “I’VE HAD ENOUGH, COME IN HERE AT YOUR OWN RISK”
Layla burst into laughter “Or she’ll come right to my school and drag me out of the middle of a class”
“Exactly” Aria said and they both laugh.

A piercing scream followed by a loud crash disrupted their laughter, every one turned towards the direction immediately and Phil who had retired to her office came rushing out.
It was the lady who Layla had thought was cool with her smile. She just smashed her cup of Espresso on the floor.
The silence was deafening, Everyone wondered what was wrong.

“I didn’t request for Espresso! I requested for Macchiato!” She screamed, tugging at her hair.
Aria thought that act was too extreme just because she was served what she didn’t wanted, even if she hadn’t requested for Espresso, she should have politely pointed out Layla’s mistake to her and Layla would make amend immediately. Layla has never made a mistake with a customer’s order as far as Aria was concerned, so Aria wondered where this was coming from and she had heard Layla singing ‘Espresso’ while coming from their table, Layla do that only if someone order that particular coffee.
‘Well . . everywhere had been so tight today, it’s absolutely normal to have made a mistake with someone’s order.’ Aria thought.

Layla stood, confused as hell.. what’s going on?
She tried thinking back to when the lady ordered and she had indeed ordered Espresso while the man ordered Americano.
Or could she have mistaken the lady’s word?
No! This lady had ordered Espresso, she’s so sure of it because she remember singing with the word ‘Espresso’ and she doesn’t do that unless someone orders it.

“Will you fvcking explain yourself and apologize and stop staring like a mull! ” Philia yelled at Layla.
“I .. I .. sh .. she had indeed ordered Espresso” Layla said and Aria knew that was true, Layla would have apologized immediately if she was wrong and she had indeed sang ‘Espresso’ so this lady was the wrong one here.
The lady was still tugging at her hair angrily while the man was trying to calm her.
“Isn’t this just weird’ Aria thought.
“Shut up! You indeed made a mistake with her order! she’s obviously not dumb like you not to know what she ordered. You’re so dumb with everything. Apologize immediately dummy! ” Philia shouted angrily and for the first time in years Layla felt deeply hurt by Phil’s words.

“I’m sorry” She said in a shaky voice, trying to hold back her tears but they slipped, rolling down her cheeks .
Aria has never felt so angry at Phil, she wished she could slap her across the face.
“Layla is right, the lady had indeed . .”
“Shut up! Or lose your job!” Phil cut Aria short with a glare.

“I’m so sorry” The man said, holding the lady tightly to his side like she would run off.
“You don’t have to apologize sir, this dummy here caused everything. We’re so sorry for the inconvenience. ” Phil said making a curtesy.
A headbutt that’ll make Phil tumble over is what Aria wished for right now. She passed Layla tissue to wipe her tears.

“No, this young lady is right. Mary had indeed ordered Espresso” The man said and there was silence.
“fvck you Phil” Aria muttered but not to Phil’s hearing and Layla almost laughed.
“Oh really?” Phil said slowly, so embarrassed to look Layla or anyone else in the face.
“Yeah, Mary is suffering from dementia.” He announced and everyone exclaimed.
‘Wow’ Layla sigh, feeling so sorry for Mary, it hadn’t been Mary’s fault after all.
” I’m so sorry for whatever this might have caused” The man said, Mary was now smiling at his side and it was then Layla noticed the edginess in her smile. She has thought Mary was cool with the way she smile often but of course she had been wrong.
“I’m so sorry for whatever this might have caused, young lady i’m so sorry” The man said.
” It’s absolutely fine” Layla said.

Everyone turned back to their business after the man left, Philia left for her office still not able to look Layla in the face. She felt so bad, especially with the gazes she was getting from her customers.

“Wow” Aria breathed as Layla joined her at the counter after cleaning the floor and clearing the pieces of the broken glass cup.
She turn to Aria after thrashing the tissue she had given her, muttering “Thank you”
“It’s nothing sweetheart, you must have been so hurt to have cried, its been ages I saw you cry over Philia’s unkind words ”
“Yeah, I was deeply hurt that I couldn’t hold my tears. I wonder why though, cause she has said much more worse things to me and I’ve never even bothered to worry about it or cry over it”
“The emotion got to you today, it’s the little things that breaks us”

“I feel so sorry for Mary though” Layla sigh.
“Same here, I had thought her behavior was weird until the man confirmed it”
“I hope she gets healed soon enough”
“Me too. And did you see Philia’s face after everything?”
“No, I hadn’t even glance in her direction.” Layla said.
“I’ve never seen her look so mild and remorseful, she literally had her head bowed as she walked to her office”
“Really” Layla smile, she wasn’t angry at Phil, just hurt at her words
“Yes, another customer is here” Aria said and they both stood straight.
+
“Philia gave me the permission to go to the Party ” Layla told Aria after they finally got to rest, they know their rest is going to be disrupted soon though.

“Great! How long did you persuade her?” Aria ask.
“That’s the surprising part, I didn’t even persuade her, she gave me the permission almost immediately”
“Are you serious?”
“Of course, I was surprised too that my mouth dropped open”
“Wow . . could Philia be changing?” Aria raised a brow.
“I guess so” Layla said slowly, she would have been glad if Philia is changing for good because she wants to and not because of a reason.

“Well . . it would have been unfair if she refused to allow you go, knowing that’s the first party you will ever get invited to”
“Even at that, Phil would have stopped me from going if she wanted to. She can be so unpredictable”
“Exactly, i’m glad she gave you the permission though. So have you decided on the dress to wear” Aria ask with a smile.
“Not yet. I’ve been busy, im going to do that tonight” Layla said, excited at the thought.
“You must be looking so forward to your first party”
“Very much” Layla grin.

***

Layla fell on her bed with a thud.

She was so tired, and Phil even had to order pizza for dinner because she knew Layla was too tired to cook. It was written all over her face.
Today was a long day and it had been extra stressful, her legs and hands ache, she had taken painkillers after eating pizza and all she wanted to do now was sleep but she had to freshen up for the night, she would have skipped tonight’s but she was reeking of coffee and sweat.

She reluctantly got to her feet after some minutes, pulling her wears as she walk into the bathroom.
+
She walked out of the bathroom in her pyjamas, refreshed.
She felt a bit better, she should pick out her wears for church and the thanksgiving party but she knows she’s definitely gonna fall asleep halfway through it.
She had barely positioned her head on the pillow before falling deeply asleep.

***

“OMG” Layla nearly screamed glancing at the wall clock.

10:05am

And she’s yet to get up from the bed when church service starts at 8:00am. She hadn’t even gotten her dress ready.
“fvck” She scrambled out of the bed, dashing into the bathroom.
+
“Phil, why didn’t you wake me for church” Layla said in a hurried tone, hopping on one feet as she hurriedly put on the second shoe.
She was ready in thirty minutes, she was in so much hurry that her room looked a mess now but she was going to sort it when she’s back.

“I should wake you up? After you looked like you were going to die from stress yesternight” Phil said, turning back to the TV and scanning through the channels.
“Bye” Layla said, nearly running out of the house.
“Aren’t you going to eat something?” Philia shouted after her.
“When i’m back”

~

Layla got back from church by 1pm, church service do end by 12pm and she do get home by some minutes to one but she doesn’t know why today seems fvcked up.

“Hi Phil” She said, walking into the living room. Phil was still by the TV and Layla doubted if she had stood up since she left for church but there were slices of cake and a jug of iced tea in front of her, so she had definitely stood up, at least to go to the kitchen.

“Hi” Phil said.
“Are you still feeling tired?” She ask as Layla lower herself onto the couch.
“No” Layla answered.
“Good, then go make lunch. i’m starving.” Phil said pushing the plate of cake from her lap. “I need a good meal”
Layla got to her feet.
“You can have the remaining slices of cake before leaving to cook. You haven’t had anything to eat today right?”
“Yeah but its fine, i’ll eat when lunch is ready” Layla said, she was truly not hungry, she was only thirsty.

“Okay then, see to the meal immediately. What will you be preparing?”
“What do you want me to?” Layla ask.
“Pasta is okay and you should fry some of the chicken in the freezer too”
“Okay” Layla said, walking towards the kitchen.
“Clear this cake and jug please” Phil said picking the remote control.
Layla turned back and cleared the table before finally walking to the kitchen.

She downed a chilled glass cup of water before she started bringing out the ingredients for the meal.
+
Layla started arranging her room while the meal was getting ready.
She had really left her room a mess, she rarely do that but she had no choice this morning.
After minutes of putting things back in its place, sweeping, cleaning, dusting . . . Her room finally looked its normal clean and sparkly self.

She sigh as she sat on her well spread bed with a look of satisfaction on her face as she looked around.
She should pick a dress for the party, she got to her feet with a smile and walked to her closet.
Most of the dresses in there were her mum’s, her mum was petite and Layla do fit into almost all of her dresses, they even look more fitting and beautiful on Layla that her father would always tease her mum about it.
Layla smile at the memory, it has been so long she put on any of her mum’s wears. Since her mother’s death, she hadn’t tried to but she was going to today and it is kind of making her heart race fast.
Her mum had beautiful dresses, she was a gorgeous fashionista that always stood out every where she went, most especially parties.
Even Philia do come into her room to pick one of her mum’s dresses whenever she had to attend a high class party.

“Layla, the meal is burning! Get the fvck here” Philia’s scream jolted Layla from her thought and she dashed out of her room.

+

“Clean my room also, when you’re done” Phil said to Layla who was cleaning the house after they’ve had lunch.
She cleans the house every Sunday, though in the morning but she had woken up late today and had to leave for church immediately.
Layla glance at the wall clock . . . 3pm and Dan’s parents thanksgiving party is by 4pm. She hasn’t even gotten her outfit ready and just when she thought she was almost done with cleaning, Phil asked her to clean her room.

“Why are you staring at the wall clock huh? Isn’t the party by 4pm?” Phil asked.
“Yeah but im yet to get my outfit ready and some other things”
“Well . . if you wont clean my room, forget about going to the party” Philia said, with a note of finality.

~Wow.. could Philia be changing~ Aria’s words recalled in Layla’s head.
‘Philia hasn’t changed after all’ She thought.

*

It’s 4pm and Layla is yet to leave the house, she’s halfway ready though, dressed in a pale pink dress well fitted that it accentuated her graceful figure, the dress was so simple and beautiful with pretty pearls hung around the neck.
She hurriedly brush through her hair after putting on her shoes.
She slipped Dan’s home address and some dollar notes into her purse, before rushing out of her room.

Stepping into the living room, Philia stared at her but Layla couldn’t quite read the look on her face.
Is Phil going to stop her from going? . . Her heart raced at the thought.

“What’s this? Are you going for one of ‘your Africa’ festival?” Phil asked.
“Huh..” Layla said, checking out her dress, her dress was beautiful.
“No, I didn’t mean your dress, your dress and shoes are okay but your face, it’s too plain and your hair, so rough. How can you go to a party looking like this? you look like you’re going for a burial to be honest” Phil groan and Layla bit the inside of her cheek.

“Sit” Philia said to her before going to fetch her makeup box and hair straightener.

**

“I don’t think she’s coming again” Fel said to Dan and he nodded, not happy that Layla wont be here. He had wanted to introduce her to his parents and also some of his friends he had invited from Prestige High School.
They were all here, chattering happily including Jacq, Dan had intentionally invited him just so he could talk to him about how worried Fel was on his recent behavior. Jennie was here too, sipping a drink with a smile on her face, looking her best as usual and Dan is finding it difficult to take his eyes off her.
She had greeted him cheerfully when she arrived like she hadn’t been the same Jennie who had broken up with him.

The women were chatting, few gossiping and drinking while some of the men played board games and few of them talked about politics as they drank exotic wines. The rest paced the grand party hall, randomly chipping into conversations. The whole house was indeed in a party atmosphere.
Fel, Rylan and Anne are equally disappointed Layla wont be attending, they had been expecting her.

It’s some minutes to five already, the party has started since 4pm and now everyone is about to move to the large dinning room, situated in the hall.

“OMG . . who’s this goddess?” Jasper, one of Dan’s friends said and almost everyone turned to the door.
Layla stood there, looking so pretty and shy.

“Layla” Anne and Felia called happily.
“I need her contact Dan” Collins, another of Dan’s friends whispered to him.
“Please” Collins added when Dan sent him a strict look.
“You can go to her yourself for it and mind you, she is African and Africans teeth are like axe . . so, make your choice” Dan smile, like he just said the most normal thing.
He almost laughed at the ‘scared’ look on Collins face before walking away to welcome Layla.

ZEEMAH
�����

Episode 16

“Aria. .” Layla call happily as she walk into the shop to see her by the counter.
Though she knew Jane had been conscious since yesterday but she hadn’t expected to see Aria in the shop today , she thought she would remain with her daughter for some days.
She had even planned to find out the hospital from Phil and go check on Jane.

Aria stretch out her arms, smiling as Layla approach her. She miss her, even though it was just a day they didn’t see each other.
Layla fell into Aria’s outstretched arms, smiling.
Phil roll her eyes before removing her gaze from them.

“How’s Jane?” Layla ask.
“She’s fine now” Aria sigh.
“I didn’t think I will see you in shop today, why didn’t you spend more time with her before resuming?”
“She’s very fine now, even ready to leave for school today if we had allowed her” Aria smile.
“Wow…really?”
“Yeah, it was a minor thing. Though I was so worried when I got the call but on getting to the hospital, the Doc assured me it was nothing serious and when I saw her, it was indeed nothing serious. She looked so fine that I almost doubted if she truly collapsed.”
“What was the Doc’s diagnosis?”
“She fell unconscious due to the wave of dizziness that hit her while she was playing on empty stomach and I tried to get her to eat something before she left for school yesterday but Jane is just so stubborn” Aria sigh.

“Oh .. It happened because she missed breakfast.”
“Exactly.”
“You should really make sure she doesn’t miss it again”
“Of course, she also knows better than to argue with me about breakfast now” Aria said.
“I’m so glad she’s fine now” Layla smile.
“Me too, I almost collapsed myself when I got the call” Aria laugh.
“I also knew you would have been so worried, So who’s with her now?”
“Dave, he wouldn’t leave her side since yesterday” Aria roll her eyes and Layla laugh.
Aria has always gotten jealous of Jane and her father’s bond, Jane was closer with her father than she was with Aria.

“Anyway, I miss you” Aria smile and Layla grin.
“Me too, I was so bored yesterday and Phil wouldn’t stop yelling at me. Yunno she had to take over when you left, she was so angry to have worked that much before I returned from school and I’m so sure she would have pulled me out of class if she could” Layla said looking around slowly before they both exploded in laughter.
“She got to experience how tedious the work can be for one person”
“Yeah and

I’m glad for that, she’s gonna have to treat us with more respect now” Aria said.
“I doubt that though” Layla shrug, getting into her apron and hair cover before proceeding to wash her hands.

They spent minutes making coffee and attending to customers, they got to rest when everyone was fully served.
They were on their feet, knowing another customer might walk in any moment.

“Dan invited me to his parents thanksgiving party on Sunday and I agreed to go” Layla beam as she told Aria .
“Wow, Great” Aria smiled. Glad Layla is finally going to


attend a party!
She’s finally enjoying her teen privileges.
“I’m yet to tell Phil though” Layla sigh.
“Why? You should”
“I know right, I should and im going to. But what If she refuses to allow me attend”
“Well…Knowing Phil, she might refuse at first but after much persuasion, she should concede” Aria assured.
“I hope so”
“And I don’t think she’s gonna even refuse to allow you attend the party, you’ve not attended any since you started living with her, she should be excited for you and readily give you the permission” Aria said.
“Yeah she should but we’re talking about Phil here. Well…I might be lucky if she’s in a good mood”
“I hope Phil wont be cruel enough not to allow you go”
“I hope so too”

“And.. there’s another little problem” Layla smile shyly.
“What is it?” Aria ask.
“Dress… I don’t know what to wear and I don’t think I have something suitable for the party” Layla press her lips together.
“And the fact that its a thanksgiving party to be hosted by his parents made it seem more difficult to know what to put on” Layla added and Aria smile, glad Layla confided in her on the dress issue.
“Actually .. I understand how you’re feeling, you feel you have to wear something close to extravagant because the party is being hosted by his parents?” Aria ask and Layla nod.
“No, you shouldn’t feel that way. I’m sure you have enough beautiful dresses in your closet but you just feel they are not suitable enough just because of the party hosts. Stop that thought, Pick a dress you like in your closet, something you know you’ll feel comfortable in, it doesn’t necessarily have to be a dress filled with glitters and all. You’d


look beautiful in anything Layla, trust me. ”

” Thanks Aria, I’m so glad I told you about it, its been bugging me”
“Remember you can always come to me for anything, im always here for you”
“Thank you” Layla said, close to tears.

What would she do without Aria . . .

***

“I hope Aria’s daughter is fine now?” Dan ask Layla, raising his head from his book.
They were seated in class and he had been reading while waiting for the teacher to come in.
Layla told him about Jane yesterday.
“Oh, she’s now very fine. Aria resumed yesterday”
“Really?” Dan’s eyes widen.
“I was surprised to see her too” Layla chuckle.
“Her daughter must be perfectly okay then”
“Yeah, I’m so glad”
“Oops, Mr Blaine is here”
~
“You know what Layla, just approach him if you really like him” Dan said and Layla turned to him with flushed cheeks.
They were done with their first class, waiting for the second teacher to come in when Dan had noticed Layla was lost staring at Dylan again.
“You don’t even concentrate in class, all you do is stare at him. You should move to him if he really affect you that much” He advise.

“Really?” Layla ask and he nod.
“You think that’s the right thing to do?” She ask, looking hopeful.
Dan swallow hard. He knows Dylan is not the right person for Layla but the rate at which she stares at him in class without concentrating is gonna affect her grades.
And the most annoying thing is Dylan doesn’t even seem to care, he had even told Dan he doesn’t like Layla and even his actions proved he doesn’t , but what to do . . . when Layla wouldn’t take her gaze off him.
She should approach him .. Perhaps Dylan will be touched to make her happy by considering her and then she would stop staring longingly at him in class, knowing she owns him already. Dan really hope that will work out, its the only thing he can think of at the moment .

He would have loved to really tell her to forget about Dylan and throw whatever feelings she has for him in the thrash but she looks happy whenever she stares at him. And of course he’s not ready to make her unhappy. Besides, making her forget Dylan and the feelings she has for him seems almost impossible, he was once in love and he knows that look in Layla eyes whenever she stares at Dylan.

“You really like him right?” Dan ask and she nod shyly.
“Then do it”
“What if … ” She trail off.
“He doesn’t feel the same” Dan completed and she nod.
“If Dylan doesn’t feel the same way, you shouldn’t take it to heart. you shouldn’t blame him or hate him for it, the heart chooses whom to love, he has the right to love anyone …just like you do, just like everyone do. I know it’ll hurt but you’ll get over it eventually” Dan says suddenly feeling more right about her approaching Dylan. It’ll make her know her stand , he kind of feel she knows Dylan doesn’t feel the same way but she’s under the illusion that she might have a chance with him. Approaching him is the best decision, it’ll make everything clean clear to her.

“Okay, i’ll do that.” She sigh.
“You don’t have to if you’re feeling uncertain about it”
“No, I’m only nervous.”
“Whatever the outcome is, don’t feel so bad about it. We wont always get what we want and that’s fine” He said, so she wont feel so down at Dylan’s response cause he certainly knows Dylan doesn’t feel the same.
“Thanks Dan ” She smile.
He wink.

“And you really have to concentrate in class this time” He said as they watch Miss Margaux walk in.
“I will”
“Promise?” He ask and she chuckle.
“Promise”

And then….she concentrated fully in the classes they had before lunchbreak . . .

~~

“Hiii” Dan smile at Anne and her friends as he gently place his tray of lunch on their table, sitting beside Jennie, oblivious to how happy it made her feel.
“Hey Dan” They respond.
“Where’s Layla? why aren’t you eating with her?” Anne ask and Jess almost roll her eyes at her.
“She’s quite busy at the moment, she’s going to join me soon and so I decided to eat with you guys till she’s done” He said. Layla is with Dylan in the classroom, it had taken some time before she finally gathered the courage to approach him and when she did. Dan left to the cafeteria.
“That was very thoughtful of you” Jess smile.
Dan smile back at her and started eating.
*
“So…” Layla swallowed hard, standing in front of Dylan with sweaty palms and flushed cheeks, they were just few students in the class with them but Layla was oblivious of their presence. Dylan had her unwavering attention.
Her heart was the only thing that moved and it did not only move but was thumping fast and hard against her chest.
Dylan was standing in front of her… Gazing directly into her eyes, for once, she had his full attention too!
The thought almost made her inside melt.

“Layla” Dylan call finally, when it seemed like she wasn’t going to say anything.
Hearing her name jolt her out of whatever fantasy she had thrown herself in and she felt embarrassed to have kept mute for too long, keeping him standing when he was supposed to be having lunch.

Gosh . . Layla.

“I’m so sorry” She said.
“It’s fine. You said you have something to tell me, im all ears” He said, trying to hide his impatience.
“I .. I . . I ” Layla stammer and Dylan groan inwardly. He was fvcking hungry!! and this girl is keeping him waiting by stammering. fvck!
“You what?” He ask.
“I I .. I ” She sigh and shut her eyes tightly. No, she cant do this. She cant seem to get the words out of her mouth, it felt like something was holding back her tongue and it was so annoying she almost cried.
Dylan bit his lower lip as he lower himself onto a desk, sitting.

She finally opened her eyes and was startled to see him shorter than she was, she sigh in relief when she realize he was sitting on a desk.
His legs must have been aching, gosh . . she felt so terrible.
She couldn’t tell him she had nothing to say after making him wait for this long or he’s never going to take her serious again.
Okay…maybe she knows what to say.

“I know we were starting to . . talk and then something happened and you’ve totally ignored me since then. If you’re holding back from talking to me because you think i’m still pissed over .. the truth or dare saga, I want to let you know that im not pissed over it, i’m cool with it, I know it wasn’t intentional so I didn’t take it to heart. If you’re still feeling bad about it, then you should stop and lets continue saying hi to each other, lets continue being cool with each other” Layla concluded, totally satisfied and surprised at her courage. She felt so proud of herself at that moment that she almost hugged herself. She has been wanting to say that to him for quite long and she finally got to.
Yasss!

“I’m sorry about how my comment must have made you feel then, thanks for not taking offense over it and i’m very glad you approached me to amend our relationship that was just starting to grow” Dylan said calmly and Layla felt like she was in the sky.
“So.. We are cool now right?” She beam.
“Of course” He smile and her inside melt.
“Okay” She blush.
“Can I leave for the cafeteria now?” He ask, still smiling and anyone observant enough would tell the smile was forced.
“Of course, I’m so sorry to have kept you waiting”
“It’s fine. See ya” He got to his feet and walk away after flashing her a smile.
Layla smile back shyly and she exploded into a happy giggle after he walked out of the classroom.
~
Dan smile as Layla narrate everything to him happily.

It wasn’t what he had wanted but as long as it made Layla happy, then he’s cool with it.

***

“Phil…” Layla started.
They are having dinner and she feels this is the best time to tell Phil about Dan’s parents Thanksgiving Party. Seem as though she’s in a good mood now but Phil can be so unpredictable.
She will be so happy if Phil could allow her attend.

“Dan invited me to his parents Thanksgiving party on Sunday, and . . I told him i will attend, I swear im not going to stay out late, the party will be starting by 4pm, I promise to be back anytime you want me to, I …”
“You can go” Phil cut her short.
“What?” Layla opened her mouth in astonishment.
“You heard me right, and close your big mouth before I change my mind” Phil scoff.

“Thank you” Layla grin happily.

I'm very sorry for the delay, our site was broken. So you can continue episode 16 here.

https://toriperi.com/her-last-wish-episode-1617

Episode 15

ZEEMAH WRITES . . . .

"Heyyo!!" Layla smiles as she got into the car, sitting beside Dan who is seated beside Anne who look like she was sulking.

"Good morning to you!" Dan smile back at Layla, who was now positioning her backpack on her Laps.

The driver started driving. "Hi Layla" Anne said slowly.

Layla turn to look at her, noticing her tone didn't sound cheerful as usual and she was sulking. She wondered what was wrong with her and then turn to Dan, searching his face for answers. He grin naughtily, and that made Layla relax a bit, knowing it wasn't something serious with the way Dan was grinning but she should ask anyway.

"Anne are you fine?"

"I'm not" Anne blink fast through her eyeglasses.

"What's wrong?" Layla ask, sitting upright.

"Dan and Felia made me waste the Bridie pies I made for them yesterday. They refused to eat it, claiming it wasn't good enough after I spent hours in the kitchen and when my mum got back yesterday, she ended up scolding me for wasting the pastry" Anne explained, looking at Dan with disapproval.

He sigh, resting his head on his palm. He couldn't count the times he had apologized to Anne.

Layla turn to Dan, looking at him accusingly, demanding an explanation.

"God" He groan, the piercing gazes from Layla and Anne at the same time was too much to bear. He wish he could disappear from their middle.

He almost turn to the driver for help but Paul was too focused on the wheels.

"Anne, for God's sake, the pies were burnt!! you couldn't eat it yourself" Dan finally said in defense, after their looks almost sent him out of the car.

"Even before you knew the pies were burnt, you and Fel lied that you were asleep. That means you wouldn't even had eaten it anyway. So you don't have excuses" Anne pout.

"I already apologized for that . I'm sorry Annette please" He said looking so sorry that Anne didn't have any choice than to forgive him.

She stared at him softly, making the 'lastborn' face.

Dan almost laugh but he knew better.

"He's truly sorry Anne" Layla said.

"He's forgiven" Anne said, facing the window.

Dan laugh as he pull her close, kissing her cheeks. She ended up laughing too and Layla smile as she watch them.

"You're so cute when pissed" Dan tease, releasing her from his grip.

She pull his ear lightly and he faked a sound of pain.

"Your gazes almost killed me. Damn" He groan and Layla and Anne laugh.

"That's what you get for pissing one of us off" Anne said.

"I'm never going to do it again" Dan made a crying face and they laugh again.

"So I guess Anne is not so good at making pies" Layla said.

"I try my best" Anne press her lips together.

"C'mon, it's nothing to feel bad about. Even the world best cook fail at making certain meals. I can help you become better at making pies though. I'm quite good at it. Different types of pies " Layla wink.

"Really? " Anne face lit up. She was almost perfect at making other meals but she never succeeded at pies, she has tried severally, looking recipes and procedures online but she never got it right.

" Yeah, I have a book of recipes and easy procedures made by my mum. She was a baker by hobby and if she had wanted to commercialize it, she would have made loads of money because she was just so good at it . I'm going to lend it to you and all you just have to do is follow the procedure, practice it . . I'm eighty percent sure the book will groom you and if that doesn't work, I'll have to take you some oral classes on it. Im sure one of those options will work out" Layla smile.

"Thanks so much Layla" Anne said excitedly and Layla knew if Dan hadn't been in their middle, Anne would have hugged her with how excited she looked.

She was a bit surprised Anne hugged her anyway, not even caring how uncomfortable it made him feel.

Layla had to laugh with the way Dan groan in discomfort.

Anne finally let go of Layla and Dan sigh in relief.

"Thank you Layla" Anne smile.

"I'm gonna get you the book tomorrow"

"Thank you" Anne said feeling so grateful.

"C'mon it's nothing" Layla shrug.

"It's something to me" Anne said and Layla smile.

"You should thank me too" Dan said.

"Why?" Anne ask.

"If I had eaten your pie, you wouldn't have been pissed... Layla wouldn't have known you are not good at making Pies, she wouldn't have offered to help you" Dan said, smiling.

"Gosh" Anne shook her head and Layla laugh.

"Whatever, I know you wouldn't want to admit it but that's true. " Dan stick out his tongue playfully.

"You're a clown" Layla laugh.

Paul pulled into the school parking lot and they got ready to alight.

~~
"This is just so hard for me to see everyday" Chloe whimper, watching Dan and Layla walk to their seats together.

"What are you going to do about it?" Sabrina ask.

"Are you asking me that? Are you all not supposed to have come up with something for me?! " Chloe almost yelled.

Christy sigh . . . "Chloe, to be honest Dan isn't like other guys"

"What do you mean? You mean he's got pussy?" Chloe hiss, looking angry.

"Not that . . It's just that I've never even caught him once staring at you. He doesn't seem to be interested in you at all"

"That's because that fat African enchanted him to focus on her alone" Miranda chip in.

"You all promised to come up with something for me but nothing yet! They keep getting closer, now, it'll be difficult to pull them apart!" Chloe sigh, glancing at Dan and Layla. A fresh anger brewing in her.

"Are you planning to pull them apart" Rina ask.

"Of course! How else will she get Dan to notice her" Mira answered.

"I think you should focus on the plan of getting him to notice you. Trying to pull them apart is only going to waste your time, they seem inseperable to be honest" Christy said.

"Exactly my thought" Rina said and Chloe seem to be thinking about their opinion.

"You both are just so lame at times, how is Dan gonna notice Chloe when obviously Layla has all his attention" Mira said .

"I hope you're not so blind to see how close they are! Trying to pull them apart is going to take a lot of time. You're the lame one here" Sabrina retort.

"You're the lame one!" Mira shouts in Rina's face.

"You are!" Sabrina shouts back.

"You are!" . . . They yell in each others face, entertaining their classmates until a teacher walk in.
~

"I feel the movie is overrated, it didn't meet my expectations in any way" Sarah said to her friends. They were enjoying their lunch in the cafeteria.

Anne and Jessie had recommended the movie to her and they had talked so highly of it.

"I feel its not, you just didn't find it interesting or rather were you distracted while watching it?" Anne ask.

"I wasn't . . I concentrated fully on it, it just wasn't interesting to me" Sarah said and Anne shrug, continuing her meal.

"Everyone I recommended the movie to appreciated it, you just don't find anything interesting! That movie was great, just because it didn't meet your poor expectations doesn't mean its overrated. " Jessie hiss.

She feels so offended that Sarah thrashed one of her best movies.

"That was my own opinion of the movie. Everyone is allowed to have different opinions on things. I didn't find it interesting does not mean its not. Grow up Jess" Sarah chew on her fries.

"Whatever" Jess roll her eyes. "Just know, I will stop recommending movies to you, you are so ungrateful"

"C'mon Jess, its not that deep" Kate said.

"I thanked you when you recommended the movie to me. Not finding it interesting now means im ungrateful? Wow" Sarah gave a surprise chuckle.

"Chuckle all you want, all I know is I'm never going to recommend a movie to you again" Jessie said.

"Do whatever pleases you. Do I look like I care?" Sarah shrug with a roll of eyes.

"Heyyyy" Dan and Layla wave at them as they walk past their table, each holding a tray of what they got for lunch, heading towards an empty table.

"Heyyy" Anne and her friends wave back with smiles.

Jessie was still smiling even after Dan and Layla were seated, starting to eat. She still haven't gotten over her crush for Dan.

"They are always together" Sarah smile admiringly at them.

"After Anne, Layla is still the closest to Dan in this school" Kate said.

"I envy her" Jess said sullenly.

"So many girls do too" Kate said.

"The hate on Layla will be so much more now, especially amongst the girls" Sarah said.

"Dan actually relates with other girls too, he relates with everyone, he's just closer with Layla " Anne said.

"So many girls are vying for that closeness, they don't just want to be said 'hi' to and smiled at every time" Jessie sigh.

"The sooner you let go of that crush you have for Dan, the better. You're just going to break your own heart if you don't stop" Anne advise.

"There's no harm in trying" Jessie shrug.

"Of course, do whatever suits you " Anne smile.

"Y'all wont believe Layla is willing to help me on how to be better at pies!" Anne announce excitedly. Of course, her friends also knew how bad she is at. "She's a genius at it, her mum was too. She'll be lending me her Mum's recipes book tomorrow, i'm so happy!" Anne grin.

"Wow" Kate said.

"That's so nice of her" Sarah smile.

"She doesn't have any choice than to reciprocate you guys kindness. After all, she now rides in your car to school and back home" Jessie roll her eyes.

"Layla is not someone like that! She would have offered to help regardless of that and Point of correction, we made her start riding in our car, she never wanted to . . maybe it was even because of blabbermouths like you that she refused at first" Anne hiss at jess for the first time and she looked clearly offended. Her friends stared at her in surprise, Anne has never talked to any of them in this tone, she was the coolest and sweetest among them .

Kate clear her throat and Sarah swallow hard while Jessie continued staring in surprise. . She couldn't believe Anne who has never even defended herself defended Layla,even calling her a blabbermouth in the process. Anne is never someone to speak that way not even when she's pissed but Layla changed everything.

Her hatred for Layla grew, almost exploding.

They continued their meal in awkward silence . . .
~

"My parents will be hosting a Thanksgiving party on Sunday by 4pm and I'll like you to come" Dan said to Layla whose mouth was almost filled with pasta.

She stare at him, not knowing what to say.

How was she supposed to respond?~

She has never been invited to a party.~

What would Phil say?~

She doubt if she even has outing dresses . . ~

Why is she starting to feel nervous already? . . It's just a party.~

And it's still on Sunday.

"We would really like it if you can attend... Me, Fel, Rylan and Anne" Dan smile, hoping Layla would say yes.

"And of course, we will understand if you wont be able to" Dan assure her, he doesn't want her to feel they are gonna be offended if she choose not to attend.

"No, I'm gonna attend" Layla blurted . . she doesn't see any reason not to attend the first party her best friend is inviting her to. Phil might not agree immediately but surely after much persuasion. And the party is by 4pm, she would have been back from church before then and for the dress . . well, she'll figure that out. She can't wait to tell Aria, The thought of attending the party suddenly appeals and excite her. She hasn't attended one since she became a teen.

"Really? You're gonna attend?" Dan ask.

Layla nod and his face lit up with a smile. He had almost thought she was going to say no .

"You thought I wasn't going to honor your invite?" Layla ask.

"Yeah . . You looked like you were going to say no"

She laugh " With how I stared after you told me right?"

"Exactly" Dan chuckle.

"This is the first time I'll be getting invited to a party since I became a teen, so when you told me . . Different thoughts came rushing in my mind but I didn't see any reason not to honor your invite, as a matter of fact, I'm excited at the prospect. " Layla grin.

"Wow . . it seems I keep breaking the 'firsts' in your life" Dan said humorously.

"Why don't I start calling you 'Mr Firsts' " Layla joked and they laugh.

"I'm actually glad you're excited to be attending the party. I assure you that it'll be fun, it has always been fun" Dan wink.

"I cant wait" Layla smile.

"And thanks for inviting me" She added.

"C'mon, its what friends do "

"Well...thanks anyway"

"Lets quickly finish our meal before lunchbreak is over" Dan said.
~~

'Meet me in the shop immediately you're done freshening up" Layla read the note Phil left behind on the table.

She drop her backpack and hurried to her room, peeling off her schoolwears even before she got to the bathroom.

Philia rarely leaves such note..so she guess it must really be urgent.

*
She headed to the café after dressing up, her hair wasn't even completely dried. Cool breeze massage her wet scalp as she hurry towards the shop.

She walk in and was surprised to see Phil on an apron, making coffee and serving customers with Aria nowhere to be found.

'Has Aria quitted?' Layla thought dreadfully as she made her way to Philia who looked relieved to see her.

Layla followed her to the counter, resisting the urge to ask what's going on.

Phil looked tired and angry and the apron even looked funny on her. Layla would have laughed if she wasn't worried about Aria's whereabouts.

"Take over" Phil said, untying the apron and hair cover and throwing it at Layla who caught it.

"Where's Aria?" Layla ask as Phil turn to leave for her office.

"Will you stop questioning me and get to work immediately!" Philia half yelled and Layla set to work immediately.

"Well..." Phil started in a cooler tone. "She got a call that her daughter collapsed in school"

"Oh my God!" Layla exclaimed, her eyes widening.

"You're free to allow your huge eyes fall off but not in my shop . . I got a call from her not long ago and she told me Jane was now conscious"

"Thank God!" Layla let out the breathe she hadn't even realize she was holding. She felt so relieved.

"Yeah,so get to work" Phil said and walked to her office.

"Aria must have been so worried" Layla sigh as she set to work. She's so glad Jane is fine now. Though secretly happy Phil got to experience how tedious the work can be.

She smile to herself as she started brewing fresh coffee.

*
"Taa...daa!" Dan heard as he walked into his room, with someone jumping right in front of him.

He was so startled that he almost ran out of the door.

"Bleep! You scared me" He groan, seeing it was Fel. She dissolve into giggles, landing on the couch in the process. Dan was forced to laugh too.

"I came to get the book" She finally said after their laughter subsided.

"No, you came to scare me" He corrected and she laugh again.

"I didn't mean to, you got scared"

"Whatever" He roll his eyes playfully, dropping his backpack.

"So . . the book, you said you'd be done with it by today. Can I have it?" Fel got to her feet.

"I'm not done with it" Dan said sitting, he was teasing but he wore a serious look. He almost laugh as he hope Fel doesn't pounce on him.

"You're joking right?" She ask.

"I'm not" He answered, maintaining his serious look.

"Gosh! I cant believe this. " Fel scowl.

"Chill.. I'm done with it, was just teasing" He laugh.

"Arrgh, was about pouncing on you" Fel raise up her tightened fists.

"I know, that was the reason I quickly spoke up, would have loved to tease you longer" Dan chuckle.

"Asshole" Fel said as she searched his bag for the book.

"You look hundred percent sure that the book is in my bag"

"That's because I've searched your shelf for it and it wasn't there . . Found it!" She grin, pulling out the book from his bag.

"I'm off. See ya" She said, swirling out of the door before he could blink.

"Wow" He shook his head.

He started pulling his shoes and socks, and when he was done, he got to his feet to go freshen up. His eyes landed on his bed and a smile lit his face when he saw Fel already picked out fresh wears for him.

"I love you bitch!"

Episode 14

(IM SORRY......)

"Felia" Layla smiled.

"Hey Layla" Felia wave with a smile, before going to sit at a table.

"I should go take her order" Layla said to Aria who nod with a smile.

"How are you?" Felia ask Layla as she got to her table.

"I'm good Fel,excited to see you"

"Believe me, same here. Been dying to see you again since i left here on Saturday"

"Really?...well,if that's to flatter me,you succeeded" Layla said and they both laugh.

"So,what's up? What would you like to order?"

"Uhm.. Nothing, at least for now"

"Oh.."

"Your aunt isn't around,i guess" Fel peered around the cafeteria.

"Yeah"

"Then sit with me" Felia smile.

"Uhm..You think if my aunt was around,i wouldn't sit with you?"

"Yeah,after see how wide her eyes went when she saw you sitting with us the last time. " Felia said and Layla laugh.

"That was because i was supposed to be working"

"Don't your friends visit?" Or rather...you don't sit with them when they do?" Felia ask.

"Well..i don't have other friends asides you guys"

"Are you being serious?" Felia couldn't hide her surprise.

"Yeah.."

"You're in high school and you do not have friends until you met us? why? that's pretty unusual."

"Yeah..it is" Layla sigh.

"Did you decided not to have friends until you get to a certain age?" Felia asked, curious to know the reason. It was unusual for a teenager,a beautiful one at that .. not to have even one friend.

"Well..not everyone finds making African a friend a normal thing to do like you guys did.." Layla said and Felia raise a brow.

"You mean no one wants to be your friend because you are..." Felia trail off when Layla nodded.

"OH MY...WOW, the whole school turned against you? for being something you had no control over?"

"My classmates especially but it's all good now, meeting you guys made up for all the years of loneliness for me" Layla smile happily.

"Oh no, don't give me that pity look" She added with a chuckle, seeing how Felia looked at her.

"I keep trying to think how you survived for years in the midst of .. everything" Felia said, feeling sorry for Layla. It must have been so tough for her.

"My parents raised no weak girl" Layla says, wearing a small smile.

"Obviously,I'm glad we're here for you now. Those pieces of shits do not deserve you anyway" Felia scowl.

"And thanks for the books! It's been so long i read a book so old and rich in culture. I enjoyed it,just waiting for the two dickheads to be done with theirs so we can swap"

Layla chuckle.. "How's Rylan?"

"He's fine, being a pain in the head as always" Felia groan and Layla laugh.

"Say hi to him for me"

"I will" Fel nod. "They both actually didn't know i'll be coming here,they would have come with me"

"Oh,was wondering why you came alone too"

"Wow . . i should have just sat down" Layla said,realising how long she's been standing.

"Told ya" Fel said, sticking out her tongue.

It made Layla laugh again.

"Gotta go, Layla" Fel glance at her wrist watch.

"I should get back to work too. I hope you come around soon again" Layla says with a smile.

"I will, bye" Fel kiss her cheeks and wave at Aria who wave back with a smile.

***

"Felia came around yesterday" Layla told Dan immediately they sat in class.

"Really?"

"Yeah" She smile.

"She didn't tell me anything"

"She didn't have to" Layla shrug.

"Uh" Dan raise his brows in a playful manner and Layla laugh.

He smile, he has realised he love seeing her laugh. She does it so heartily.

"You and Rylan do make her feel left out and now she's found me!" Layla says gleefully.

"I knew Rylan and I were in trouble when i made you and Felia meet each other" Dan shakes his head,wearing a sour look and Layla laugh again.

He smile, watching her laugh.

"You laugh so beautifully and heartily" He had to say.

"Thank you" Layla smile, flushed. The compliment had taken her by surprise.

"Here we go again" Dan murmur as a teacher walked in.
.....

"This is so chilled" Layla says as she sips her juice.

"I can tell from the cup" Dan says, eating almost hurriedly.

"I wonder why it seems like you're in a hurry" Layla savors the taste of the chilled pineapple juice.

Anne recommended it to her when they met at the food counter and she didn't regret changing her juice flavor today.

"I am, i need to visit the library"

"Alone? You don't want me to come with you?" Layla ask, she find herself wanting to go with him everywhere.

"I wasn't sure you'd want to come and I don't want to impose it on you"

"You didn't even ask me.." She looks a bit pissed.

"I'm sorry" He says, looking as apologetic as he feels.

Layla nod... "It's fine"

"So if I hadn't asked, you would have gone off..."

"Nah... I wouldn't do that" Dan interrupts. " I was planning to tell you once I'm done eating"

"You do ask me to come with you every time and I do, I wonder why you think I wouldn't want to come with you today" Layla say without humor.

Dan sigh...She seems pretty offended to have being left out in the plan to go to the library after lunch.

"I'm sorry Layla, to be sincere...I deliberately didn't ask you to come with me" Dan confesses.

"What? Why?" Layla stops eating her doughnut halfway.. blinking hard.

Did she offend him?

Will he stop being her friend?

She almost shudder at the thought, she has gotten so used to Dan,and to think she's just realising that now. Wow.

"C'mon it's nothing serious" Dan almost laugh, seeing how funny she looks.

"I just don't want you to feel overwhelmed by our friendship. We've never been apart since we became friends except when we're in our various houses. I don't have a problem with it though but i feel you might want some breathing space,some minutes alone and you probably don't know how to say it to me so..." Dan trail off.

"That's not true, I don't have a problem with it too. Why would I want some breathing space? You're not suffocating me, you've never. You're my best friend and I would never get tired of being around you. I'm disappointed you could think that way"...

"Don't you know best friends stick to each other always" She adds with a pout, facing her now 'less chilled' pineapple juice.

She raise her head to Dan's direction when he didn't say anything for minutes and found him staring at her, unblinking.

Is he lost in thought?

This is so unusual of him.

She was about calling him when he sigh loudly.

"Are you okay?" She ask and he nod.

"I'm sorry for thinking that way Layla" He said.

"It's fine.. Is that the reason you looked so lost in thought?"

"No..I was stunned by how highly you think of our friendship. With the way you spoke, one wouldn't even know you've been without friends for years"

"Whoosh, I'm flattered" Layla said and they laugh.

"So.. Layla, would you come with me to the library" Dan ask.

"You don't even have to ask,I'm coming with you anyway" Layla roll her eyes and Dan laugh.

"It was great seeing you upset though" Dan tease and Layla hit his arm playfully.

He laugh once more and continued rushing his meal.

"There's actually a bo.." He was saying when he notice Layla's attention was somewhere else.

Dylan was approaching their table and Layla's gaze wouldn't leave his face.

Her heart is probably in her throat already with how lost she looks.

Dan sigh, swallowing his meal.

He wonder what Dylan was coming to do at their table when Dylan who looked like he was going to stop at their table, walked past them with a smirk on his face.

Layla swallowed hard, returning her attention to Dan.

She smiled shyly at Dan, embarrassed.

She knew he had been watching her.

"There's nothing to feel embarrassed for. Let's go to the library" Dan said after gulping a glass cup filled with water.

***
"You and Rylan are so annoying!" Felia yelled, so Dan could hear her in the bathroom where he is presently freshening up.

She is sitting on his bed, waiting. She arrived shortly after Dan got back from school and got into his room to hear the shower running and then she knew he was still freshening up..

She's pissed at him and Rylan for not finishing the books Layla gave them yet. Rylan hasn't even started his... She's done with hers, eager to swap with them but the assholes are delaying her.

"Fel, help me select fresh wears, I'm almost done" Dan shouted from the bathroom and Felia roll her eyes before getting up from his bed.

"Bitch, I know you just rolled your eyes" Dan shouted, like he was in the room with her when she did that.

They know each other so well that they could detect their next moves.

"Wizard" Felia said to herself,laughing as she open his wardrobe.

Her eyes roam his wears for some seconds before she pulled out a pair of pale green linen shorts with a black sweatshirt.

She lay the wears on the bed and sit down.. sighing.

Dan finally stepped out of the bathroom with a grin on his face . . He knew what Felia was pissed at him and Rylan for. Rylan already called him to warn him before Felia arrived at his house and he had quickly ran to the bathroom when he heard her voice from the living room.

"Who are you to think your grin will subdue my anger, It's actually annoying me more. Stop grinning like a fool or I'll hit you with this pillow " Fel said through gritted teeth and Dan started laughing.

She ended up hitting his wet body over and over with the pillow while Dan just kept laughing.

"I'm so pissed at you and and Rylan .. what's taking you both so long? We do finish a book in a day or two.. it's going to three days already and you guys aren't done yet, delaying us from swapping. I'm tired of reading mine over and over again. It's not fair! " Fel complain.

"I'm sorry" Dan pouts. I'm actually almost done with mine ... I swear. I'm gonna read the rest tonight and we'll swap tomorrow . I promise"

"You should better do that" She bats her eyelashes as she drops the pillow back on the bed. She sat down and sigh deeply.

Dan figured immediately that she was bothered about something.

"Hey, what are you worried about?" He ask getting into the shorts she had selected for him. He drop his body towel on his dressing chair and sat beside her before putting on his sweatshirt.

Fel rarely get worked up over things or rather she rarely shows she's worked up over something and whenever she makes it obvious,then it's really bothering her.

Dan drape his arm over her shoulders and pull her close . "Felia Summers, what's bothering you?"

Felia smile, she does whenever Daniel calls her by her full name, no matter how bad her mood is.

"It's nothing so serious..it's just Jacques. He has been acting unusual. I feel he's starting to avoid me" Fel shrug.

"Really? Have you tried talking to him about it?" Dan ask. Jacq is one of his numerous friends and Fel's boyfriend at Prestige high school.

"I tried talking to him about it but he's not giving me the chance to, he doesn't want to talk to me, giving flimsy and irrelevant excuses. It's so unlike him and it's getting me really worried" Fel looked downcast.

Dan sigh, patting her back. "He might be going through something and doesn't want to bother you about it"

"No, I don't think that's the case"

"It might be, it might not, we can't be sure . Do you want me to talk to him about it?" Dan ask and Fel shook her head.

He sigh. "Are you sure?"

"Yeah"

"If you keep looking this way, I won't have any choice than to talk to him" Dan states.

"I think you might be right, he might be going through something and doesn't want me worrying...or what else would make him turn that way. I should be patient, till whatever is nothing him stops" Fel says, consoling herself with those words, she looked a bit better.

"Good" Dan smile.

"But i really wish he can talk to me about it" She prodded.

"Good guys like us don't always want to bother girls" Dan tease and laugh when Fel roll her eyes.

"Can't believe Jacq could make you look that bothered for the first time in months, you rarely show your emotions Fel . . And this Jacq guy,you must really like him"

"Of course, I would never have dated someone I don't like"

"We all know you like him. But never knew you liked him this much" Dan said, he was worried because he could tell deeply inside him that Jacq was close to breaking Fel's heart .. It wouldn't have been a problem if Fel didn't like him this much. Looking this down just when he's starting to avoid her shows how devastated she would feel when he breaks her heart. She would be so hurt and that really bother Dan.

"I like him so much now" She smile, shrugging.

Dan nodded, returning her smile and trying to keep his concern out of his face.

"Jennie sent her greetings" Fel says and Dan didn't know if it was hearing her name for the first time in days that made his heart beat faster or he still has feelings for her.

"Oh . . Say hi to her for me" He swallowed.

"Are you going to invite her for you parents Thanksgiving party?" Fel ask and Dan didn't respond for seconds. He hadn't even thought of sending an invite to her.

"Do you think I should?"

"Of course, you've always invited her. I know the both of you are over and all .. but not inviting her just because she broke up with you would make you seem petty and you'll make her have the thought that 'you're yet to get over her ' C'mon Dan" She punch him lightly on the arm.

"Okay, gonna send an invite to her today. But, what if she doesn't come?" He ask.

"That's her problem, you shouldn't be bothered by that. You've done your part by inviting her. Wait . . ." Fel suddenly pause, looking like she's examining Dan closely.

"What?" He ask, wondering what she's up to this time.

"Are you still yet to get over her?" Fel ask slowly and it seem as though she's holding her breath while waiting for Dan's answer.

"I don't know" Dan says. He really do not know if he's over Jennie.

Fel sigh.

"I really do not know . . . I swear, but when you mentioned her name . . my heart . . " He pause, looking at Fel.

He knows she understands what he meant.

"Oh Dan" She says softly, almost in a whisper. They all knew how much he love Jennie, it'll be so hard for him to get over her . What's Fel's just so pained about is that Jennie didn't even seem to care, she's still being her goofy self around the school with no single worry on her face since she broke up with him. Felia had almost thought Jennie was never in love with him to begin with. And here he is, finding it hard to get over her.

"Don't give me that pity look, I'll be fine" Dan assured.

"Daniel, I know it's hard but you just have to get the Bleep over Jennie, she clearly doesn't care about you anymore, she hadn't even seem affected by the break up, she's going in with her life even with more enthusiasm " Fel cleared and Dan wouldn't lie he felt a bit hurt . Well . . He hadn't expected her to brood over it when she had been the one who broke up with him.

She obviously hadn't cared enough about him or she wouldn't have broken his heart.

"I actually did not really think of her since I resumed Ocean High or rather I tried not to think of her .. Until now that you mentioned her, I had thought I was over her but clearly there are still some feelings left . . I'll try to get rid of them " Dan said and he knows it's easier said than done. Even Fel knows that too.

"Good! This is the Daniel Keyes I'm familiar with" Felia grins, raising her palm for a 'high-five' Daniel smile as their palm collided.

"What of Layla? Have you invited her?" She ask and he almost smile at the mention of her name.

"Not yet"

"Why?" She ask,with a raised brow.

"Chill..I'm waiting till it's Friday"

"Whyyyyyyy" Fel drawl with furrowed brows.

"Isn't it okay?"

"It's not, you should invite her sooner so she'll shuffle it within whatever plan she already have for Sunday"

"You really want her to come, don't you?"

"Of course i do" Fel smile. She really likes Layla.

"Okay.. okay, I'll do just that" He nod, almost rolling his eyes.

"Good Boy" She tease and he finally roll his eyes.

Felia laugh.

"Pies anyone?" Anne ask loudly through the door.

Dan and Fel look at each other in horror, knowing how bad Anne's pies always taste. They both scurry under the blanket, holding their laughter.

"Pies anyone??" Anne ask again and they know she'll be coming in soon.

"We're sleeping" They both shouted and ended up bursting into a rib-aching laughter.

Episode 13

"Why don't i just tell him every single car in my father's garage got burnt to ashes"

"Chloe!!!" They all screamed and everyone turned to them worriedly.

Most of the students hissed when they saw it was nothing serious and few grumbled on how worried they were for nothing.

Everyone turned back to their business.

"What?" Chloe asked, rolling her eyes.

"I thought you would come up with something better but what was that?" Christy asked.

"Isn't it a good decision?" Chloe asked.

"It isn't" Mira and Sabrina said.

"Well..that was the best i could come up with" Chloe said.

"That is a big NO for me" Christy said.

"Yeah" Sabrina and Mira agreed.

"What do i do then? I really want him to be mine" Chloe said.

"We'll come up with something okay?" Miranda assured.

"What do you plan to come up with? If Dan doesn't feel attracted to Chloe, he can't be forced to" Christy stated.

"Just shut up" Miranda sent her a look "he might be attracted to her but just doesn't know how to approach her"

"It doesn't look so..." Christy was saying when Sabrina cut in.

"I agree with Miranda, Dan might not know how to approach Chloe."

"He doesn't look like the sort of guy that won't be bold enough to express his feelings" Christy said, being the only one among them who doesn't really like deceiving Chloe.

"He doesn't look that way doesn't mean he isn't that way, when it comes to feelings,most people are timid. Chloe do not listen to Christy,she's bad vibes" Miranda said.

"Obviously" Chloe shrugged, sending Christy a pointed look.

Christy sighed automatically zipping her lips.

"I so much hate this teacher" Sabrina groaned as a teacher walked in.

"It's so great to have you join us for lunch" Jessie smiled at Dan who smiled back.

They were all sitting round a table in the cafeteria, including Layla who Jessie wished hadn't joined them.

"Oh look, everyone is staring at our table" Jessie giggled, excited she's getting what she wanted.

The attention of everyone.

"Why are they all staring at our table?" Dan asked, looking puzzled.

"That's because you are sitting with us!" Kate said.

"I.. i don't understand,how does that relate with the stares?" Dan asked.

"They probably couldn't believe you would sit with us" Kate said.

"Why?" Dan asked.

"Seniors sitting with Juniors during lunch break isn't so regular here and not when the senior in question is the school idol" Jessie said, smiling in a flirting manner.

"Oh please,I'm not the school idol. I'm just Dan" He said biting his burger.

Jessie blinked and swallowed, she had thought Dan would be impressed with being called the school idol but obviously he doesn't want to be called that.

She bit her lips thoughtfully thinking of a better thing to call him that would impress him and make him see her as a potential lover.

"Sarah,i haven't seen you in the house for a while now." Dan said.

"Yeah,i don't live close anymore. I stay with my aunt now" Sarah said.

"Oh.." Dan said.

"I actually stay close" Jessie said.

"I do too" Kate smiled.

"Sarah! Kate! Your houses are even farther than Sarah's aunt's" Anne said.

"Oh really?" Kate said, tucking her hair behind her ear with an embarrassed smile.

Sarah groaned and shook her head, knowing what Jessie and Kate are up to.

Jessie resumed her thought of impressing Dan..

He's so cute and sitting so close to him is almost making her melt.

"So, I think we haven't done a proper introduction. I want to know my sister's friends better, except Sarah though" Dan smiled.

"Of course" Sarah chuckled.

"I'm Kate Miles and it's so nice to finally meet you" Kate smiled.

"Oh, Kate. It's so nice to get to know you too. I love your hair though. It looks beautiful" Dan said, admiring Kate's long curly hair.

"Really? Thank you" Kate said, restraining herself from showing her excitement.

God knows she's gonna start flaunting her hair more now.

They all turned to Jessie,it was her turn to introduce herself but she seemed to be lost in thought.

She didn't even notice the pairs of eyes on her.

"Oh wow, it's so unusual of Jessie to be this quiet" Anne said.

"Jessie" Sarah stirred her and she looked really embarrassed to have been caught lost in thought.

"I was actually thinking of how to go about the school work we were given earlier today, y'all know how much i hate failing. I love studying a lot" Jessie said, hoping that would impress Dan.

"What!" Anne and co exclaimed,if there's anyone among them who hates studying the most,then it's Jessie! . Jessie would rather lazy around than study! They wonder where this was coming from.

"Anyway,it's your turn to introduce yourself to Dan" Sarah said.

"Really?" Jessie's face lit up.

"I'm Jessie Shaw,a very nice girl to the core,my hobby is studying. It's so nice to meet you Dan,i really hope we maintain a close relationship" Jessie smiled, stretching her hand for a handshake.

Her friends stared at her in astonishment, Sarah's mouth was even slightly opened.

"It's great to meet you too Jessie" Dan smiled as he accepted the handshake.

Jessie reluctantly pulled her hand from his after a long awkwardness.

"I know y'all already know Layla but im gonna introduce her anyway. This is Layla Moremi Williams,a special friend of mine" Dan smiled.

"Hi Sarah, Kate, Jessie" Layla said.

"Hiii Layla" Kate and Sarah said.

"Hey" Jessie said.

"Nice sitting with y'all for lunch, Layla and i would have to return to leave now" Dan said.

"Why? Lunch break isn't over" Anne said.

"Yeah,we planned to go to the library after having lunch" Dan said.

"Oh" Anne nodded.

"Nice having you guys with us" Sarah smiled.

"Yeah" Kate said.

"I hope you sit with us some other time Dan" Jessie said.

"Sure" Dan said and waved before walking away with Layla.

"Jessie! You were so obvious" Sarah said.

"Really?" Jessie asked.

"Of course,even a blind would know you like Dan. C'mon" Kate said.

"Gosh, i couldn't control my feelings" Jessie sighed.

"Does that mean he noticed I'm into him?" Jessie asked.

"He should,it was so clear" Sarah rolled her eyes.

"Great then,it'll make everything easier" Jessie smiled.

"I would advise you to stop whatever feelings you're having for Dan, he won't even think about you in that direction" Anne said, sipping her juice.

" Why? Am i not pretty enough?" Jessie asked with a frown.

"It's not about being pretty,he doesn't even go for looks. I'm not sure he would want to get into any romantic relationship for now because he just got out of one, 'heartbroken'. The thing is Dan won't even consider dating you,the fact that you're my age is a huge turn off,he's gonna feel like he's taking advantage of your young mind, so you should erase whatever crush or feelings you're having for him so it won't grow into something you won't be able to control" Anne said and they were surprised when Jessie bursted into tears.

"Hi Phil" Layla greeted as she walked into the living room.

She hadn't expected to meet Phil at home,not even looking like she's ready to step out of the house.

"Hey Layla" Phil said.

"Aren't you going to the cafe?" Layla asked.

"Nah"

"Why?"

"Because it's my Cafe. And i can choose not to go whenever i don't feel like" Philia said.

"Oh, right" Layla said.

"I'm going to go freshen up" Layla said, starting to walk towards the direction of her room when she remembered about the allowance.

"Phil,you gave me extra dollar notes this morning,so i guessed you miscounted it. here is it" Layla said, handing Phil the extra money.

"No,i didn't miscount it. I've decided to increase your allowance" Phil said and Layla stared at her in surprise.

"And don't ask me why, i just decided to" Phil quickly added,not ready for questions.

"Really? You decided to increase my allowance? Why?... I mean.." Layla sighed, trailing off.

Philia did not just increase her allowance with a little amount but with a huge one.

"I just told you not to ask questions, go freshen up and join Aria in the cafe" Phil said.

"Okay Phil, thanks so much" Layla said.

"But.." Layla paused. "If you're being nice to me because of a particular reason,then you should stop"

"Would you go freshen up and join Aria already!" Phil raised her voice and Layla hurried to her room.

"Aria" Layla called, smiling in greeting.

"Hey! Layla, how was school?" Aria asked, glad Layla is here.

"Great" Layla said, washing her hands.

"And how's Dan and co?"

"They're fine, though I've not been in contact with Felia and Rylan since we last met here but we do exchange greetings through Dan. He's our middleman" Layla chuckled, putting on her apron.

"Don't you think you should get a phone? I know you're saving up,so you definitely have the money to and if probably the money is not enough. I can help" Aria said.

"No,the money with me is more than enough to get myself a phone" Layla said.

"Then what's stopping you?" Aria asked and Layla shrugged.

"I would get one soon" Layla said, hoping she keeps to her own words.

"I hope you do" Aria said and Layla nodded.

She started attending to customers while Aria prepared the orders.

"Isn't Philia coming?" Aria asked when Layla returned from taking a customer's order.

"I don't think so" Layla said.

"Oh..look who we have here" Aria smiled.

"Felia!" Layla smiled.

Thanks for reading

�(She defiled me)�

Episode 6

�Bryan's POV�

For some moment I thought on this name like it was something else..

The stupid urge was something I can't explain, how would I want to see her..gosh!

Is Rose a name of a person or a name of a flower?

I laughed to myself without even knowing when the laugh came out..

"Did you just laughed?" He exclaimed and I turned to him with an arched brow..

"Man you just laughed like seriously??" He smiled and I got rolled my eyes getting vexed, why did I even laugh, what is funny about the whole thing..

I hissed and took a deep breath,

I looked up and there were the eyes of ladies peering at me..

I rolled my eyes again and sighed..

"Tell that Rose that she shouldn't near me or this school or I'd skin her alive!" I stated and he chuckled..

"That's because you haven't seen her.." He said and I sneered at him like he is insane..

"Do I need to see her before hating her??..tell her that I hate her..so much" I hissed and fluttered my eyes..

I raised my gaze again and their eyes fell on me..

Oh gosh!!!

"I think I need to leave this class,!" I seethed under my breath and I stood up

Just then, a teacher walked in and that made me sit back..

Shit!!!

"Bryan you got to stop this..you know we got a main rival in music, Austin..do you want him to take the glory?" He said and I looked at him feeling the urge go slap his face..

"Why should I sing when the inspiration is gone?"

"There you lie, the talent is still there, Sophia isn't your life...forget her!!" He growled

"Well, I'll forget her and also forget music because it is now useless!" I stated bitterly wishing I can really forget Sophia..

The taught all he had to teach without me even listening to a single word, I even hate him for coming in when I wants to leave the class..

After what seems like an eternity to me, he was done and left..

I sighed and turned to jace who also turned to me..

"Are you helping me revoke the scholarship or not?" I grunted

"I would have gladly do it for you but I have this feeling that Rose would be among those that would sign in through that scholarship.." He said and I flared up..

"I don't give a damn about that Rose of yours??..do you know how it would be having those people here??..do you know how smelly they would be??..what about the obsessed ones..aaahhha!" I ruffled my hair in frustration attracting the attention of everyone in the class..

They all stared at me making me pissed up...

"Hey why the stares!!" I growled and they averted their gaze..

"You don't know me well right?" I said to jace

"Ugh??"

"I'll make sure I personally make life hell for all those commoner, they would regret the day they decided to come here!!" I breathed and stood up to leave..

Jace was staring at me in awe, I don't give a damn, how could I even want to see that Rose flower, he just said she would sign in the scholarship which means she is even poor...

Gosh!!!

I turned to leave but felt my legs heavy as I caught the glimpse of Sophia and Jeremy again, I couldn't hold myself this time..

I walked to them, you don't know how exasperated I am..

"Hey, aren't you ashamed of all this??" I seethed trying hard to hide my pain of seeing her with him..

"Ashamed of what?..have you gone nut?" Jeremy was the one to talk now..

"Shut those smelly pit you godforsaken a**hole!!" I cursed making him sneer at me

"Don't you know you are the a**hole here??..that's the reason I dumped you.." She spited and I swallowed hard..

"wanna know when we would drop a song??" She chuckled and my stomach grumbled

"Oh yeah, we created a song about the timid guys like you who gets dumped easily" Jeremy laughed..

"To hell with those songs..fools!!" I howled and turn to leave so they won't see my eyes which was becoming wet..

"We wouldn't sing it here, we are leaving for Paris tomorrow, we need a breathing space, your pathetic eyes is disturbing us, we are leaving this school for you at the moment.." Sophia chuckled making my world crumble..

So there wasn't a single hope, she was leaving

I looked at myself and felt so low..wasn't I that Bryan that is known through out the whole town?.. I looked up and the stares of the student caught my eyes..

The ladies was really having their eyes filled with emotions as they wish and long for me to at least look at them..
everyone wants me but the person I dearly want doesn't want me in her life a single bit..

I took a deep breath and turned my gaze to Sophia and the stupid guy..

"Do you think I care??..hey you can take your a**s anywhere you like, I don't give a damn, you are nothing to me anymore..f**k you!!" I seethed and walked away while she giggled behind making me feel shame..

Well, I guess it is over....

I think I hates her now..to hell with her!..to hell with singing, to hell with any band, to hell with the f**king national competition.. I don't care anymore, my joy is gone...shit!!!

I walked out of the school and dashed into my flashy car, the most expensive car in the garage, it was sparkling white and really fitted my white attire..

I ignited it and drove away, I'm not going home just want to go to a secluded area and calm my nerves, I need to get myself together..

Its getting too much..I drove away with my mind clouded with different thought..

The thought of my future without Sophia, how would life be without her, it was just too sudden..very soon everyone would know of our separation.

How would i cope when I can't like any lady, how would I even sing remembering that she gone...

Can I even compete with her when she sings with another band??

How

Tears rolled down as I drove to where I don't even know..

My phone rang immediately and it was my dad..

"What is it??" I asked angrily

"Are you suddenly mad!!..how could you leave the school without guards, what is wrong with you??" He seethed

"Stop calling me please, I don't want to talk to any of you!" I gruffed

"You are out of your mind??.. I'm already sending five guard to you now..stop risking your life son.." He said and i hung up..

I sighed and parked my car beside the road before resting my head on the dash board..

I don't know where I am, all I know is that the environment is calm, I just need to rest my head..

Just then, someone tapped me..

What

I raised my gaze and it fell on a lady who was dressed in a company uniform, she was carrying a pizza..

My mind flashed to what jace said..she is a pizza attendant..

"Who are you??" I asked the girl who wasn't moving or talking, her gaze was just on me as she gasp for breath, her eyes was widened as she looked stunned..

"You are Bryan?" She asked and I sneered at her..

"Are you Rose??" I asked and her eyes widened the more..

"You know my name" She squeaked

"I don't know you or your flower name..why did you even touched my car talk more of touching me??" I asked stepping down of the car..

The pizza she was holding dropped off her grip as I jaw dropped..

"Bryan!!!!!!!!" She screamed and jumped like she won a lottery..

"What??..why did you scream my name??" I huffed and she bowed and stared at my face like she hasn't seen a face like this before..

"You came looking for me right?..jace gave you my message.." She squealed leaving me taken aback..

Is she mad

How would I come looking for her??..

What type of girl is this?

"Do you know you disgust me, I swear I don't know how I was able to even talk to you.." I grunted and she smiled

"When you are rude, you looks more cute and hot..please are you a human or one of the angel that was forgotten on earth?" She asked squinting her eyes..

"Please do me a favour by not registering in the school, please I can't have you there, you are very clumsy" I sneered

"Do you know what soul mate is??" She asked walking to and fro like with her hands clutched behind..

"Can you leave now?" I said and she walked closer..

"Don't come near me!!" I screamed but she wasn't listening, her face was even filled with smiles..

"I heard your girlfriend left you, you must be heartbroken now..forget about her or she would think she has control over you.." She smiled and I looked away

"I can't believe a day like this would come, I can't believe I am standing with you here, how did you even came here?..I feel like bursting standing close to you, your colongne is making me feel dizzy.." I purred

"Just wait a little, my guards is approaching..you will end in jail in no distant time, I can't believe you got the gut to...arrgh..." I growled and glared at her..

Immediately she heard that, she took my hand and squeezed it softly..

"Just know I love you, I love you and I know you may not love me but..I..am really in love with you..I love youu." She kept saying in a low tone

"Ohh, I'll take one hour to wash that hand, you must have stained it now!" I growled ignoring all she said..

"Look" she said pointing at my right..

I turned my gaze to see what she was showing me and the next thing she did surprised me..

She kissed my cheek and ran away....

Ugh??

My lips curved into a smile and before I knew it, I laughed...

What??..she just made me laugh..
*
*

Episode 12

(Moremi)

Zeemah Writes
_____

Dan and Layla walked into the classroom together and that earned them questioning gazes from the students.

Layla got to her seat first, Dan was still replying to greetings from different corners.

His eyes met with Dylan's who looked away almost immediately.

Daniel would have actually liked to say hi to him.

He finally got to his seat which was beside Layla's.

"Hey" He said to her as he sat down.

She was still not looking her normal self.

He wondered why..

Had she felt so uncomfortable in their car?

She hadn't even talk throughout the journey to school.

"Did you dislike getting into our car that much?" He finally asked and Layla glanced at him.

She shook her head.."No, i enjoyed being in your car. It was so refreshing and cool. I felt so comfortable and it made me remember the days my brother and i ride in my parents car"

"Oh.." Dan paused, looking so sorry.

"I'm so sorry" He said.

He hadn't known her being in their car had brought back memories.

"No..Don't say that,it's fine. Totally" Layla smiled but he could see the pain beneath her smile.

He gently held her hand in his in a comforting manner.

She smiled genuinely this time.

"It's been so long i got into a beautiful car as that and how did you get to know my home address,was it just a guess?" She asked.

"Be sincere" She quickly added and Dan smiled.

He would really loved to tell her the truth but her aunt, Philia had told him not to.

He was so surprised when she approached him yesterday after Layla had walked away after seeing them off.

Philia had told him she doesn't like how Layla treks to school,she gives her transport fare but Layla would rather trek and sooner or later,it might start telling on her health because her school is so far from the house.

Dan had replied her that he offered her a ride in the car but she declined,he would love to help her too,to stop her from trekking to school everyday. It must be so exhausting.

Philia had said Layla is always like that, she wouldn't accept help from people even if it's gonna make her living easier. She then pleaded with Dan to know a way to get her to be riding with him and of course Dan promised to. He has the ability to make Layla's life less exhausting and he wouldn't hesitate to help.

Philia gave him their home address and made him promise not to tell Layla a thing.

"It wasn't a guess, i just happened to know your house" Dan shrugged and Layla gave him a look.

"Yunno your house isn't so far from the coffee shop" He added and she sighed.

"That doesn't mean it's so easy to know the address without anyone helping,are you probably a..wizard?" Layla teased with a raised brow and Dan laughed.

"C'mon"

"Well, thanks for being so kind enough to want me to start riding with you guys" Layla smiled.

"Will you be fine to continue to?" Dan asked.

"Of course,i wouldn't miss being in that beautiful car for anything" She said and Dan smiled.

He's a bit glad she accepted to continue riding with them,that means she's getting comfortable with him.

"Oh look, the teacher is here" Layla said.

"Bye Dan,Anne. Thanks for the ride" Layla said, alighting from the car parked in front of her house.

"Bye Layla" They waved.

She stood and waved at them as the car moved away.

She turned to walk into the gate when she collided into Philia.

"Gosh! you scared me" Layla sighed heavily.

"You scared yourself" Philia said, adjusting her dress.

She looks like she was ready to leave for shop.

"How long have you been standing here?"

"Since forever. Don't take long before coming to the cafe or i won't hesitate to give you a good punishment" Philia said as she walked away.

Layla stood staring at her back, wondering why Philia hadn't asked her about riding in Dan's car because obviously she had seen her alight.

She shrugged as she walked inside...Philia is just being Philia.

"Gosh! Fel, you're going to tear my backpack" Dan groaned as Fel tug at his backpack for the books Layla had said she was gonna give them.

She had been waiting in their living room even before they arrived.

"Where's Rylan?" Dan asked.

"He has an appointment in the hospital,so he told me to bring his own copy to his house" Felia said, unzipping Dan's backpack.

"You didn't even confirm if she actually gave the books to me before ransacking my bag" Dan said, shaking his head.

"Layla doesn't look like someone who would go back on her wor..Yeah! I found it" Felia said excitedly.

"Good for you" Dan rolled his eyes.

"And yeah, i forgot to ask for Layla's contact on Saturday. You should have it right?"

"Yeah,i should but Layla doesn't have a phone yet"

"Oh really?"

"Yeah"

"Is it some moral role or..."

"If it's for some moral role,we wouldn't own phones either" Dan said.

"Yeah, right"

"But! She's gonna get a phone soon" Dan said.

"She told you that?" Felia asked.

"Nah, i just know that" Dan said.

"Anyway,i really enjoyed our meeting with her, would you schedule another? I miss her already. She's one of the few people i find myself vibing with without having to try so hard" Felia said and Dan smiled.

"I can relate to that. And about scheduling another meeting,i would be inviting her over for my parents Thanksgiving party on Sunday,we would all be meeting here if she honors my invite" Dan said.

"And what if she doesn't?" Felia asked.

"Well..we can always go to the coffee shop if we want to meet her" Dan said.

"Right. I should get going" Felia said, stretching as she got up from the couch.

"Why so soon?" Dan asked.

"I can't wait to immerse myself into these books" She said.

"And who said you can't do that here?"

"You know i cherish reading in the comfort of my room than anywhere,not even paradise. I'll be back to spend time with you if i get to complete it soon enough"

"Okay, see you" Dan said.

"Bye, and go freshen up. You smell like..ughhh" Felia groaned as she walked out of the door and Dan laughed.

He stood up to walk to his room when Anne appeared in the living room, looking freshened up.

"Fel left already?" She asked looking around.

"Yeah, she left to read in the comfort of her room" Dan said.

"Oh,she wouldn't trade that for anything" Anne smiled, adjusting her glasses.

"I'll go freshen up" Dan said.

"Alright, what you gonna have for lunch,I'm about performing some wonders in the kitchen" Anne winked.

"Ah, you're making me salivate already. Just cook anything good. I'll come join you soon" Dan said, running to his room..

"Pasta is it then" Anne said, turning towards the kitchen.

"I rode in my friends car today and it's gonna continue that way" Layla said to Phil as they had their dinner.

"Oh cool" Philia said and resumed her meal.

"Really?" Layla who had expected Phil's lash back asked in surprise.

"What?" Philia asked.

"You are going to allow me do that without saying anything?" She asked.

"I said something. 'oh cool' " Philia said.

"That's so unusual of you...you yell at every decision i make before finally giving in" Layla said.

"People change, don't they?" Philia smiled.

"Gosh, please stop smiling. You look scary" Layla swallowed.

"What!" Philia yelled, stabbing the peas on her plate with her fork.

'there we go again' Layla muttered under her breath.

"I mean,you don't smile at me often,i can't even remember the last time you did. Seeing you smile now seems...creepy,I'm really trying my best not to run off, screaming. I'm sorry if that hurt though" Layla smiled, secretly glad to be getting on Philia's nerves.

"You sure have a bad mouth for someone in your condition!" Philia said.

"Oh please,when would you stop mentioning my condition at every conversation. Are you bent on making me continuously sad?"

"You need to be reminded of it because you seem to have forgotten..."

"Seeing me happy almost all the time doesn't mean I've forgotten about my condition" Layla cut in.. "it's buried in my mind,i think about it every second. You sure don't expect me to be in tears all the time,do you?"

Philia stared at her, before continuing her meal.

"So many people are facing one difficulty or the other,it isn't obvious on their faces does not mean they are not worried about it" Layla said.

"Enough, continue your dinner" Phil said.

"Or miss your allowance to school tomorrow" Phil quickly added.

Layla continued her dinner in silence and sadness.

"You're looking so bright this morning" Phil said to Layla who stood in front of her,fully dressed for school,smiling brightly and beautifully.

She's determined not to allow anything bring her down or make her feel sad,she should be responsible for her own happiness.

"Yeah" Layla acknowledged.

"Could it be because you now have someone to pick you up?" Philia asked, handing Philia's allowance to her.

"Partly" Layla smiled as she counted the dollar notes.

"Or could it be because the person picking you up is Daniel?" Philia asked and Layla stopped halfway through counting the money.

Only her eyes moved and they were filled with questions..

Philia bit the inside of her lip, knowing she just blabbered..gosh.

"How did you know Daniel is the one picking me up?" Layla asked.

"Of course i saw him when you alighted from his car" Philia said, having quickly regained her momentum.

"How? Because i wasn't even sitting beside Daniel,he was at the far end of the car,i was sitting right beside Anne and there's no way you would mistake Anne for Daniel" Layla said.

"I just happened to see him! He's a tall guy yunno" Phil said.

"He is but.."

"Just let it go,i happened to see him! That's surely not a crime" Philia raised her voice.

"Of course it isn't,but how did you even get to know his name?" Layla asked.

She also couldn't place a finger on why she was being curious.

"You guys were so loud at my cafe on Saturday,so i happened to grab everyone's name, Layla the questionnaire!" Phil snorted and Layla folded in her lips.

"I would leave now" She said,not bothering to count the rest of the money.

Phil was glad she didn't because she had actually added to it and Layla being the questionnaire she is would question her on why the money was more and she being the 'answernnaire' is not ready to answer her questions. She already decided to increase Layla's allowance and it's gonna continue that way.

"Bye" Layla said.

"Bye" Philia said.

•
Layla stood by her gate, waiting.

She finally decided to count the dollar notes and when she was done,she discovered it was more than the amount Philia do give her.

Philia might have miscounted the money before handing it to her.

She was about heading back inside when she heard a car horn.

She smiled, seeing it was Daniel's car.

Well...she's gonna sort the money issue when she's back from school,she can't afford to make them run late because of her.

"Hey guys" Layla smiled, approaching the car.

Daniel and Anne smiled at each other, noticing how bright Layla's mood is.

"What's going on!?" Chloe lamented as Daniel and Layla walked into the class together again today and they were even smiling!

"Isn't it so obvious that they come to school together now and i even saw them leaving together yesterday in Daniel's car" Miranda said.

"What! Ho..w?" Chloe asked, hoping what she just heard is false.

"Well..the point of all this is Layla now ride with Daniel and Anne. They've gotten closer,Lucky her" Christy said and Sabrina shrugged.

"Noooo!" Chloe suddenly screamed, mounting to her feet.

She was so sure Daniel has been enchanted with Africa Voo Doo.

"I'm so going to show her hell!" Chloe said,ready to march to Layla's seat,who was oblivious of what was happening to Chloe at the moment, though everyone had turned to her worriedly when she screamed but they all faced their businesses, seeing it was nothing serious. She was just being her crazy self.

"Chloe,i won't advise you to approach her. Your hair.." Christy paused and swallowed.

"Is at stake" Sabrina completed the statement and Miranda and Christy nodded.

Chloe's strength that seemed to have overcomed her dropped and she quietly sat down, glaring hard at Layla from her seat.

She was more pained Layla wasn't even looking in her direction and even Daniel too!

"Riding in the same car doesn't necessarily means something is going on between them" Christy said.

"Yeah! Yunno Layla is so poor,she treks to school all the time and Daniel probably felt pity for her and decided to help her" Miranda said.

"That shows how much of a good guy he is" Sabrina added.

"You guys are right" Chloe said, starting to get the angry look off her face.

"I didn't even think in that direction..wow. So, Daniel is making her ride with him to help her poor ass" Chloe laughed and her friends laughed with her even though they didn't find it funny.

"I'm so lucky to have such a good guy as my boyfriend,he's so nice" Chloe beamed and her friends stared at one another in astonishment before turning to her.

"Your boyfriend?" They asked, almost at the same time.

"Yeah" Chloe nodded, looking so sure.

"He's going to officially be my boyfriend soon,you all know i always get what i want right?" Chloe smiled and they nodded.

They weren't sure Chloe was going to get what she wanted this time because Daniel had not even shown the tiniest bit of attraction for her like other guy does but of course they were not ready to tell Chloe that.

None of them is ready to stop being Chloe's friend.

"What if i tell Dan that I'm a poor thing that trek to school too" Chloe said.

"Chloe,your pink Ferrari is always standing out in the school parking lot" Miranda said.

"Then i would tell him it's under repair then" Chloe concluded

"Everyone knows your father is rich enough to get another car for you even if your car is under repair" Sab said.

"I don't think Daniel knows how wealthy my father is,or he would have moved closer to me" Chloe pouted.

"Daniel might not know because he's a new student but his sister does and she's gonna tell him. I'm sure you do not want to Daniel to see you as a liar at the fresh start of your relationship" Christy said.

"You're so sensible" Chloe smiled at Christy and Miranda rolled her eyes.

She always want to remain Chloe's favorite.

"Daniel doesn't look like someone who would tolerate liars so i better make a better decision" Chloe said and seemed to be thinking for a while.

Her eyes suddenly lit up and they knew she had come up with something.

"Why don't i just tell him every single car in my father's garage got burnt to ashes"

"Chloe!!!" They all screamed.

Episode 5


�Rose's POV�

I sat up from my bed and my gaze fell on Bryan, I felt a glitch in my heart as the thought of seeing him in reality dawned on me..

It would be the greatest thing that would happen to me and I can't just wait for tomorrow, yes it is tomorrow..

I would be the first to go and register, I really needs to see him and talk to him, who knows he may fall in love with me at first sight.

I can't stop smiling...

I sat on the bed gazing at his picture which was so stunning that I would always get lost staring at it..

My mother was still sleeping peacefully..

Just then, the door opened and Clara walked in with her phone..

"Oh!! Another music??..what is the name?..did he call my name in it??.." I kept asking as I jolted up from the bed..

"Hell no!!..he no longer sings!" She stated and my eyes widened

"What??"

"Finally, the world has been made to know the reason behind Bryan not being seen in stage for some time now, it has been long he dropped a new song...do you know the reason?" She asked and I shook my head praying he wasn't ill..

"He had a problem with his girlfriend Anna and they broke up!" She said and I jumped up in glee..

"Ohhh..wow!!!.." I screamed in happiness as I heard that great news..

"Really..she broke up with him!!" I exclaimed and grabbed Bryan's picture placing it in my heart...

"Are you mad??" She asked and I smiled at her..

"Yes..I'm madly in love with him.." I said and kissed his lips..

"You couldn't even wait for me to finish and you are being happy like he proposed to you.." She half yelled and I plopped down on the bed..

My eyes is already wet, I can't just think straight now...so he is now single..

That means I have a hope!!!

"Rose do you even have the idea that you are poor??" She questioned and I sneered at her

"That guy is a billionaire and you are a poor girl in the slum, do you both match in anyway?..he would hate you the moment he sees you, he had got nothing to do with the poor.." She said and I nodded

"We are soulmate, we would sing together, I would be his girlfriend, I would replace his girlfriend" I muttered with a smile.

"Let me tell you all I came to say...Bryan had changed totally, his father, friends, and everyone are really stunned..you can't believe that he is rarely seen around..he doesn't stay with people any more always indoor, he can't even sing again.." She explained

"Why all this??.. What happened??.." I asked

"Sophia his girlfriend jilted him, she broke up with him and start up a new relationship with his rival!!" She explained

"Till I meet him.." I said with a smile..

"Meet who??...you may not be able to see him all through your stay in that school!!.."

"Its not possible!!!"

"Okay, you would be starting tomorrow right?" She asked and I smiled and glanced at Bryan before nodding..

"Good luck!!.. Don't forget to always gist me!" She said making me giggle..

"I went to deliver pizza to someone there in the school although couldn't go in, he was outside, he is very hot and handsome..well, after telling me he is Bryan's friend, I gave him a message to drop for Bryan.." I giggled

"What is the message?"

"What else if not that I love him!!..
you don't really get how much I love this guy..he is just soooo perfect!!!" I squeaked

"After tomorrow let's see if you would like the Bryan you would meet!" She laughed and I felt like slapping her..

"Bryan is my dream man, he just broke up with his girlfriend which means he is waiting for my arrival.." I chuckled

"Crazy girl..just stop daydreaming and drawing silly conclusions.." She said hitting me a pillow..

"Just watch and see!"

Jace's POV

I got into the class and as usual Bryan's seat was empty, he is gone again!

Sophia and her new lover is really making out a good time together..

Gosh!!!

I wish she would at least have mercy on Bryan by doing all this in secret, it just seem like she wants to hurt him more and more..

I sat down carefully with the eyes of some student trailing me..

"He looks so charming and calm!!" Some murmuring began

"I love his gentle look!!" Another chipped in

I smiled inwardly before burying my face into my palm..

Just then, my mind drifted to the pizza girl..

Ohhh...

She gave me a message..is she that crazy??

The way she was even covering her face is just soo funny..

Aaaha..

I would look for her tomorrow at the pizza, her type is needed in Bryan's life..she may be able to make him smile even if it is for a minutes..

Who knows she may change him...

The new Bryan is really destroying many things..

Our new band would be on hold, the company income would reduce..

Bryan is our greatest asset and now he is becoming a loner because of Sophia..

He wouldn't want to move along.. Why??

Sophia isn't coming back..why can't he accept his fate and move on..

Just then, Bryan walked into the class,

Omg!!!!!!!

Who is this??.. A human??

No ooo

He is an angel!!..Is that his real eyes..what about those lips??

Aggghrr..please look at me!!

I love you oppa!!..you are my everything!!

The while class went into am uproar as everyone especially the ladies admire, drool and swoon for Bryan..

His face was stonily but he still looks so hot..

"Bryan!..at last, you came to class, where?..."

"Stop those gibberish!.." He grunted and moved his hand over his hair in frustration as he saw how all the student were all going crazy..

Some ladies were even fainting.. Some had their eyes wet in deep emotions..

"I came here to ask you for a favour??"he growled

" a favour?..me?..my ears are itching.. " I chuckled

"Join hand with me so we can revoke that scholarship, I can't take in those trashcans into this school.." He huffed and sat down,

"It can't be revoke now that it has been..."

"Just shut up!!" He howled and moved his hand through his hair again,

He was really getting freaked out staying with the student around peering at him..

"I would not want any new student from the scholarship into this class, find another place for them..I can't stay in the same place with them..agghrr!!

I was getting annoyed at the whole thing..

" let's see how it goes buddy.." I said

"What about the band?..what about your singing career?..what about all that??...can you stop all this your attitude!!!.. She is gone!? I snapped and he rolled his eyes before standing up..

Bryan's POV

"I hate you..I hate dad..can you just see her, can you??..she isn't even looking at me, all her attention is in him, very soon they would bring out a song together.." I sobbed bitterly..

How would she claimed to have loved me but didn't took anyway long to replace me..

I muffled glancing at Sophia who wasn't looking at me a bit..

She really hates me for nothing, nothing, I did nothing

"Someone special is dying for you, she is really crushing on everything about you..her name is Rose and she says I should tell you that she loves you!.." Jace's voice echoed in my ear..

For some minute, I felt strangely at the mention of that name.. Rose!!.. Rose!!..that name echoed in my memory..

For some seconds, I felt the urge to see her..

What is this??
*
*
*
Tbc

❄Episode 11
�_____

"Is there a need to say what we're here for again?" Daniel teased, seeing Felia and Layla getting along with each other even without proper introduction.
"Of course we should" Felia said.
"Okay so Layla,these are my special friends. Felia Summers and Rylan Whitney, they came with me to be introduced to you. Guys,meet Layla Moremi Williams,my third special friend" Daniel said and sipped his coffee.

"Oh, it's so nice to meet you guys" Layla smiled, shaking hands with Rylan.
"Great to meet you too though i must admit i felt a bit jealous when Dan told us about you. We all know he makes lots of friends within a short period of time.. but it takes so long for him to make someone his special friend,like..he would literally study the hell out of the person for months but it's not even up to two days and..wow,he made you one. I wondered what it was about you that influenced his decision but on meeting you,i was impressed as well" Felia concluded.
"Thanks Felia, I'm quite struck by your friendliness also. I never knew Dan special friends would be as nice as he is"
"Even nicer" Felia grinned and Dan rolled his eyes at her.
She laughed.

"Okay, Layla. I'm Rylan and it's very nice to meet you. I'm glad there's now someone to keep Felia from bugging us all the time" Rylan said and earned a knock from Felia.
Layla laughed.

"You won't believe these guys would leave me all to myself and play games, forgetting I'm even there and if I'm finally remembered, i'll be teased all through" Felia groaned.
"You guys are so dead now" She added.
"C'mon, we do ask you to join us. You always refuse" Dan asked.
"How am i supposed to join you to play that stupid and hard game!" Felia yelled and Dan laughed.
"Hey, we're in a cafe. When we get home,yell all you want, you can even jump while at it" Rylan said,still rubbing his forehead.
"Fool"

"So Layla, i heard you are African. I wouldn't have known you are if Daniel hadn't told me" Felia said.
"Same here, you look so beautiful and..." Rylan was saying.
"Thick" Felia completed his words.
"Gosh, that was not what i was about to say!" Rylan said.
"It doesn't matter, i completed it for you. It doesn't have to be what you wanted to say dunderhead" Felia grinned.
"You're so...ahhh" Rylan groaned.

"So your African name is Moremi, did i get the pronunciation?" Felia asked sheepishly.
"No" Layla laughed.
"Though i'm not also very good at the pronunciation but I'm good enough to know you pronounced it wrongly." Layla said.
"Aw! Pronounce it,I'm gonna repeat after you" Felia said.
"It's More-ray-me" Layla said.
"More-ray-me" Felia pronounced after Layla.
"Yes!" Layla smiled.
"Wow, i got it. It's such a beautiful name" Felia smiled.
"Yes, i personally think African things are beautiful, from their histories to cultures,to names and so many other things" Dan said.

"Yeah, more-ray-me would you tell us more about your father,he was the African right?" Rylan asked.
"Yes. My late father is named Michael Ajagun Williams, he's African,a Nigerian to be precise,a three star general who lost his life at war" Layla said.
" I'm so sorry about that Layla" Rylan said.
"No,it's fine" Layla smiled.

Dan stared at her,he also didn't know her father was killed.

"He was a hero" Felia sighed sadly.
"Yes he was" Layla smiled.
"I'm so sorry about his death Layla" Felia said.
"C'mon it's fine,it happened years back and I'm over it already" Layla said.
"Let's not dwell in this, let's discuss another thing. Would y'all like to know the history behind the name more-ray-me?" Layla asked.
"Yes!"
~
"Wow" Felia and Rylan smiled after Layla finished narrating the story.

"That was one hell of a history" Rylan said.
"It's so beautiful,I'm gonna tell it to my parents when i get home" Felia said, filled with enthusiasm.
Layla smiled.
"I would love to really dig more info Africa history, cultures, everything" Rylan said.
"Exactly! I would love to do the same" Daniel said.
"Same here" Felia said.

"I still have some of my father's Africa history books and some novels, i can lend it to you guys if you want" Layla said.
"We definitely do!" They said.
"Alright,I'm gonna give them to Dan in school and you can get it from him" Layla said.
"Thanks Layla"

"Okay, enough about 'Africa' . I should know what's up with you guys too" Layla said.
"Well,me..I'm a boring nerd" Rylan said.
"Yes you are" Felia agreed with a straight face.
"What! I am?!" Rylan asked.
Dan laughed.
"Guys, didn't he admit it himself?" Felia asked.
"He did" Layla and Dan said.
"Gosh, well..I'm not a boring nerd!" Rylan yelled.
"Stop yelling man,you look like a bull while at it" Dan sipped his coffee.
"Exactly!" Felia agreed and Rylan bit his lips.
"Bleep you both" He said.

"You said it with your bull mouth that you were a boring nerd" Dan said.
"I said that so you guys could disagree with me and tell Layla how fun i am,i didn't want to brag that I'm the most playful person she would ever meet" Rylan said.
"Asshole" Dan shook his head.
"Fool" Felia said.
Layla laughed.

"Guys,I'm getting a tattoo soon" Felia said.
"Cool,I've always known you'll get one someday" Rylan said.
"Mr and Mrs Summers gave you the permission to?" Dan asked.
"Of course no,they disagreed" Felia frowned.
"Ouch" Rylan said.
"But I'm gonna get it anyway,i really want it." Felia said.
"How are you gonna do that without them knowing?" Dan asked.
"I'm gonna get it on..."
"Your boobs" Rylan concluded for her,with a naughty grin.
"That was not what i was about to say!" Felia slapped his hand.

"It doesn't matter, i completed it for you. It doesn't have to be what you wanted to say dunderhead" Rylan repeated her words to her and Dan laughed.
"Bleep you!" Felia said.

"I don't think you should get it if your parents doesn't want you to yet" Layla said.
"You think so?" Felia asked.
"Yeah, if you go ahead with it,they're definitely gonna find out one day and they won't be happy you disobeyed them" Layla said.
Felia blinked fast as she reconsidered.
She felt so bad to have wanted to go against her parents in the first place.

"Thanks Layla,i would do what you said. I'm gonna wait till I'm given the permission" Felia said and Rylan and Dan stared at her in disbelief.

"Good and then you'll be free to get it in any part of your body you want" Layla said.
"Fel,did you just..changed your mind?" Rylan asked.
"Of course,Layla is right" Felia said.
"Wow" Dan smiled.
"You wouldn't have changed your mind if i had told you the same thing Layla said"
"That's because you're a fool dear" Felia smiled.

Layla laughed. "How do you say mean words with such a cool smile?"
"They made me turn that way" Felia said and Layla chuckled.
"You turned Rylan into a bull too" Dan said.
"And you turned Dan into a chicken" Rylan said.
Layla laughed out loud.
•
"Dan, how's Anne?" Layla said.
"She's fine, she sent her greetings" Dan said.
"Oh,say hi to her for me." Layla smiled.

"Gosh,your aunt eyes scares me" Felia said and they all turned to Philia who was touring round the shop but her eyes were fix on them.
"I'm scared too" Rylan said and Layla laughed.

**

Layla walked back into the shop, smiling after they left.

"You look so happy" Aria smiled as Layla approached her.
"I am. It was fun to have them around" Layla said.
"Obviously" Aria said.
"Is Philia still pissed?" Layla asked as she washed her hands by the sink.
"I don't think so,she said something about leaving you to do whatever you want because she feels so sorry for you" Aria said.
"Oh" Layla sighed, wearing back her apron and hair cover.

She knew the reason Philia had let it go.

�*�

It was Sunday.

Layla walked into the house and closed the door behind her.

She dropped on the couch and started pulling off her shoes,she was starving.

"How was church?" She heard Philia ask behind her.
"It was great,i enjoyed the sermon more today but I'm so hungry right now, i have to go prepare something immediately" Layla said.
"Here. I left some pizza for you,have it before going to prepare something for yourself" Philia said stretching the pizza box to Layla.

Layla stared at her in disbelief as she collected the box . Perhaps Phil was fooling her..she thought but she was wrong as she opened the box.
There were slices of pizza staring at her.
Her stomach danced in excitement.
She stared back at Philia, blinking like a puppy.

"What?" Philia asked, sitting on the couch.
"Are you going to deduct it from my allowance tomorrow?"
Philia chuckled.."No"
"For real?"
"Yeah, i gave it to you" Philia said.
"Thank you Phil" Layla smiled.
Phil nodded and switched on the TV.
"Just make sure to prepare a good lunch once you're done" Philia said.
"Okay Phil" Layla said with a mouthful.

�� Monday**

Layla counted the dollar notes Philia gave her for allowance and it was complete.
She truly didn't deduct anything.

"You didn't believe i wasn't going to deduct your fee until you counted it right?" Philia asked and Layla nodded.
"Just go before i change my mind" Philia said.
"Bye" Layla smiled, hurrying out of the house.

She got outside and was so startled to see Dan,dressed in his school wears, waiting with Anne in front of their car.
"Layla" Anne called happily.
She slowly walked to them,still surprised to see them in front of her house.
They look like they were waiting for her.
"Anne" Layla said, wondering if she gave Dan her home address.
She was sure she didn't.
Could he have figured it out because her house wasn't so far from the shop.

"Well i know you're surprised to see us here but don't be, because starting now, you'll be going to school with us and returning in our car" Dan said.
"Please Layla, don't refuse. Remember we are all friends and we shouldn't refuse one another. We felt so bad after knowing you trek to school and back home when we have a car that can convey us all. I you're someone who would do the same if we were in your shoes and i know you wouldn't like for us to refuse your help so please, don't refuse us" Anne said.
"Moreover, having another person in the car would be fun!!" Dan smiled.

"Don't even think of refusing or I'm gonna carry you into the car" Dan said.
"Get in Layla, we're running late" Anne said pulling her hand.
Layla was still speechless as she got into the car,she stared from Dan to Anne.
The driver stared the car and they drove off.

Philia sighed, watching from her window as the car drove off.

"Good job Dan. Thank you"

Zeemah
�����

Thanks for reading �

Please do not hesitate to like comment and share �

Episode 4

�Rose's POV�

I ran back feeling joy all over me...

My Bryan!!!

He is the one that ordered for the pizza?..

Woah!!..he would see me??..I would see him?..

We would stare at each other, I wouldn't equally hesitate to tell him how much I likes him and his voice..

I got to the pizza store and I was given the pizza...

"The person who asked for this is an idol, he is a singer and very rich..he is waiting right in front of the gate of that school..I don't eben know how he was able to order from us..guess we are blowing.." My manager said with a grin,

I smiled sweetly as I thought on the fact that I was the one he was calling, like..maybe we are meant for each other..

I'm already blushing right now...

I need no one to tell me before I know it was my Bryan, who else is an idol, rich and a singer..

I rushed out with the pizza after primping..

My heart was really thumping as I thought of the fact that I would meet him..

Just then, something crept into my mind leaving me weak..

Diamond musical school is a school for musicians, they are all rich..what made me conclude it is Bryan??

It can be any other student..

Oh gosh!!!

I never thought of this..

Shit!!.. My stomach grumbled signifying hunger, I felt really weak as my legs forced itself to carry me..

Diamond musical school has many student and I had thought the person that ordered for this is Bryan.. Can he even order for pizza here??

A very rich and cute guy like him..

And I wouldn't even get to enter the school..

I was feeling dizzy as I found my way to the company bus which would take me there..

The school was a little bit far, finally we got to the amazing school which left my eyes bulging out.. I didn't see the interior part just the outside, the part outside the gate was great, I wonder how the inside would be..

It was evening so there isn't any student around..

I have never seen this kind of building before, it was like heaven, I wish we would enter in..

I can't wait for next week when I would register here and begin school, Clara must be crazy to say she wouldn't register...

What Is bully?

The building alone would make you forget the bully she was talking about...

"Rose..get down and do your job let's leave here!" The driver grunted making me flinch back to reality..

I got down and walked closer to the gate looking around...

Just then, my eyes fell on someone sitting on the bonnet of his car...

My jaw dropped..what!!!

Who is this??

I asked myself as he gestured for me to bring the pizza to him..

This guy here is very handsome but not like Bryan, well.. where are all this kind of cute guys around my neighbourhood??
All my neighbours are just ugly boys with old clothes and dirty skin colour..

His hair was curled like Bryan and he has this lips that can make you kiss the air..

I got closer and closer feeling agitated..

"You are the pizza deliv.."

"Yes sir!!..I'm sir!" I replied immediately bowing repeatedly..

"Why are you bowing?.. I'm I a god?" He asked with a chuckle.

"What..do you think you are a human?..jeez!!..look at your eyes??" I said thinking I was saying it in my mind..

"What happened to my eyes?" He asked and I cringed..

"Sir, did you hear that?" I asked

"Why won't I hear it?..you just said it!" He said smiling making him more hot..

"Please stop smiling, you are killing me with it" I said covering my eyes shyly..

"Funny girl..let me see the pizza?" He said and I handed it to him still covering my face

"Remove your hand off your beautiful face" he said and my eyes widened..

"Beautiful face?" I questioned and he nodded..

Really?

"Yes"

My cheek became red again..

Rose can't you stop blushing

"Are you a student from this school?" I asked stupidly, don't I see he is wearing the school uniform?..

He nodded and looked into my face..

"You are a singer right?.." I asked and he nodded again

Jace's POV

"Can i ask you one question?" She said looking around

"Okay I am listening.." I said enjoying her company..

She came closer to my ear trying hard not to touch me,

"Do you know Bryan?" She whispered to my ear and laughed, her laughter made me laugh also..

Why would she even laugh after asking the question..

"Oh, yeah, he is my best friend and the leader of our new band which would still be officially registered.." I replied and she smiled to herself, she was staring at the space lost, her eyes was even wet with emotion..

"you are one of Bryan's dying crush I guess?.."

She turned to me sharply..

"Tell Bryan that a girl named Rose is...is.." She scratched her head not knowing what to say..

"I should tell him you are dying for him?" I questioned with a chuckle and she covered her face again..

"Tell him I love him!!!!" She screamed and ran away

I burst into laughter at what she did..

What kind of girl is that??

I smiled as I got into the car feeling very happy, just this few moment with this pizza girl I am feeling very glad...

I need to meet her again..

Oh, how can I contact her, I don't even her name??..

Why do I even want to know her name?

Oh, she is really funny..but..she said I should tell Bryan that she loves him..wow!! She must be a dying crush..

Well, Bryan is no more that man I know, he is now a cold and mean guy now, rarely seen, he doesn't even talk much except it is important..

I really wonder how he changed so badly all of a sudden..

I took a deep breath before zooming off..

Bryan's POV

I walked into my house with my face stern like always, i had never smiled because I see no reason to smile, why would I smile when my joy has been taken away,

I an saddened to the core, the more i see Sophia and him, I feels my heart grow in pain..

I don't like talking or singing with anyone, jace my friend doesn't mean anything to me again..

I don't like him and any other person, I hate to even stay where people are especially ladies,

Almost all my stay in school is in my private house where no one had the right to come in..

I am rarely seen and that had made the student faint in emotions anytime I come out..

I don't even like the view of student looking at me with wet eyes..

I always feel like pulling out their eyes..

I got into my mansion and there was my dad and mom waiting for me in the sitting room..

I already knew what they were here for so i ignored them and head to my room..

"Come back here!!!" My dad howled and I halted with my face contorted..

"Where were you all the time in school?" He asked and I frowned..

"Dad, can you just leave me please?..I went to school as you insisted, so let me be!" I seethed

"Then why don't you stay in class, all of a sudden you are becoming something else..what is it?..is Sophia your life" He growled and I rolled my eyes feeling like slapping him..

I walked to my room without saying any other word to him..

My heart is bleeding so badly, nobody would understand how i feel..everyday by day I cries all alone right here, I cries for her leave..

Why would she leave me??

I did nothing.. I did nothing to her, why would she really break my heart, i had once thought she was joking..

Even now I still pray she is joking, I don't want to accept it to be real..

My eyes is already wet and my cheeks is bathed with tears..

I was lying on my bed with my head buried in my pillow..

She left me and was comfortable with it, what about all those great moments with her..

Has she forgotten it so easily??

The news of our break up Is gradually spreading like a wild fire, it had been written down in the school press..

It would soon be published and that would mark the end..

When the whole world knows that we are no longer together what else do I need to accept that all hope is lost..

It pains me much more that she isn't moved by it, she is even urging them to spread it..

She wasn't coming back, people thinks I am moving along but less do they knew that no night passes by without my tears all over my pillow as I cry out my eyes..

My phone rang and it was the manager of our band..

"Hello" I said into the phone

"Bryan what I'm I hearing?..are you being lonely?..do you stay hidden all day?? What is it??.." He asked and I placed my hand on the red button to cut the call..

"I'll start singing again only when Sophia comes back to me, if you need me to sing, bring her back to me!!" I growled bitterly and cut the call without listening to his reply..

I rested on the bed with a deep sigh of pain.

My phone rang again and I grunted..

It was jace..

"What is it man??" I howled

"There is some one you would love to meet, she is your real crush..she even said I should tell you she loves you..do.." I put off the call even when he hasn't finished the nonsense he was saying..

Jace can't stop being silly..
A girl, my crush, she loves me..his does that matters to me..

My phone beeped and I took it only to see a notification from the school board..

� New student would be given scholarship next week Monday�

New poor students is coming to that school??

Arrgggh!!!

More trash..why??

I don't need those stupid poor student around me..

Oh God!!!

I flung my phone in exasperation..

I must make life a hell for any student who would come near me especially those commoner who would be giving scholarship..

Episode 10.
�_____

"I'm not just a friend to him but a special friend" Layla grinned happily as she told Aria.
"Wow, isn't that so great" Aria smiled, so happy there's someone who had made Layla happy after going through that heartbreak.
"I can't believe i finally earned myself a good friend since i resumed Ocean high, i was mute when he told me i wasn't just a friend but a special friend" Layla said, glowing with smiles.
"I'm so sure everyone who had avoided you then is not even up to Dan in intelligence and looks, according to how you had described him to me"

"Yeah, Dan turned out to be the most intelligent in our class and he doesn't even hesitate to put others through. So humble to the core,I'm so lucky to get such a friend" Layla said and Aria smiled.
"Likewise him so lucky to get you as a friend" Aria said.
"Really?" Layla asked.
"Of course,you don't seem to know yourself,do you?"
"Well..but I'm more lucky to have him" Layla said and quickly rushed to take customers order before Aria could reply.

Aria started preparing the coffee while Layla went ahead to serve it.

They returned to talking after they were done.
"Now,there's another reason i look forward to going to school" Layla said.
"Was there a reason before?" Aria asked.
"Of course, Dylan. He kept me going to school,the thought of seeing his face everyday appeals me"
"And is he still a reason you look forward to going to school?" Aria asked, earnestly hoping Layla would say no.
"Yes" Layla said and Aria's heart fell.
"Dylan is still a reason i look forward to going to school and he'll forever be one because i don't think i'll ever stop loving him" Layla said.
"You can stop loving him if you want to, Layla" Aria said,so pained that ungrateful pig has Layla's heart at the tip of his finger.

"I don't want to,i don't want to stop loving him. Sooner or later,the feeling's gonna be mutual and then we'll date" Layla said.
"My last wish completed! and then..." She added inwardly.

"Layla, Dylan doesn't have feelings for you and might never get to, don't give yourself false hope so you won't end up getting hurt in the end. Please" Aria said.
"Not like it would be for long anyway" Layla said, looking gloomy.
"What do you mean?" Aria asked.
"Nevermind" Layla said, wearing a smile.
"I hope everything is fine?" Aria asked worriedly.
"Of course. Now go pick Jane, she'll be waiting" Layla said, she saw a customer walk in and quickly went to take her order.

'Why do i feel something is wrong?' Aria wondered.
And Layla asking her to go pick Jane in the middle of their conversation is rare,it means she doesn't want the conversation to go on and that signifies there's something.
Or could Layla just didn't want her to dissuade her from going on with her feelings for Dylan?
Well..whatever it is, she hopes Layla is fine.

She started pulling off her apron and hair cover,ready to go pick her kid.

��

"Uh..how could he approach you for such" Anne said with a frown after Daniel narrated the incidence between him and Dylan.
"He was been a fool but i made sure to set him straight" Daniel said.
"That's good but is your speciality really taekwondo?" Anne teased, holding her laughter.
Felia do tell her how Daniel started avoiding taekwondo training in school after he was punched once on the jaw.

"Go ahead and laugh" Daniel rolled his eyes at her and she bursted into laughter.
He pinched her cheek hard as she laugh.
"Ouch" She said and continued laughing.

"Get out of my room" He said, snuggling into his blanket.
"I'm sorry" Anne said,still laughing.
"I've stopped laughing already" She grinned, holding herself from laughing more.
Daniel emerged only his head from the blanket looking so funny that Anne bursted into laughter again.
"God, Dan you're gonna kill me. I'm leaving" She said in between laughter as she stood up from his bed.
She picked the balm,still laughing as she walked out of his door.
•°
"I had thought he approached me for something serious,i even had to laugh when he asked what was up with Layla and i" Dan said as they continued their discussion in Anne's room.
He had joined her in her room after she left his.

"Layla is very okay to be honest,i don't know why he would have to look disgusted when asked if he likes her, she's one of the best females in her class as far as I'm concerned,if not even the best female" Anne said.
"Yeah, Layla is a cool girl,she doesn't deserve that reaction from Dylan and she's really into him,she stares at him all the time" Dan shook his head.
"Dylan might consider her..with what you had said to him earlier" Anne said.

"No,i don't even want him to consider her any more" Dan said.
"Why?" Anne asked.
"She deserves better,far better than that petty asshole"
"But if he decides to date her, there's nothing you can do about it" Anne stated.
"Yeah, it would mean depriving Layla of her happiness because she would be so happy if he decides to consider her. I can't stop him if he wants to date her but i hope he won't. He doesn't respect her enough"
"I think Layla doesn't mind though, she's still so into him even after he embarrassed her. That should tell you she's so much in love with him and wouldn't even mind anything he does to her"
"It's just so unfair Dylan seems to be taking advantage of that" Dan said.

"All i hope is for Layla to be free of the obsession soon or it might hurt her"
"I don't think it's obsession" Dan said.
"Whatever feeling it is Dan" Anne laid her back on the bed,waving her legs in the air.
"I think Layla is someone that loves too hard" Dan said.
"Obviously" Anne said, smiling as she clapped her legs together.
"Loving too hard is not so bad but loving the wrong person is worse"
"I'm thinking Layla was probably obsessed with him because she had no one to talk to,now that she has you,the attention she gives him would reduce even if it's by a bit and that would help her in getting herself back and unclogging herself from the web of the unreciprocated love she has for him,the process might be slow but it'll happen eventually. She can't love him forever,not when he's not even reciprocating the love" Anne said.
"I hope so, you talk so wisely for your age" Dan said.
"Hey, I'm fourteen.. i'll be fifteen in three months time. I'm not a kid" Anne said with an air of pride and Dan laughed.

He couldn't ask for more in a sister.
Anne is everything and he's so glad to have her.

"My friends said they would love to eat with you some time" Anne said.
"Oh, whenever they are ready" Daniel said.
"Speaking of food, let's go make some,I'm hungry" Anne said and they both got up.
"Same here" Dan said.

Anne picked her inhaler and they both walked out of the room to the kitchen.
Their parents were yet to be back from work.
Their father owns two companies and their mother manages one of them, they leave for work the same time and arrive home together.
•
"What are we making?" Dan asked, opening the refrigerator.
"Hm..What should we make?" Anne said, thoughtfully.
She finally decided what they were gonna make and Dan started bringing out the ingredients.

"I'm thinking of introducing Layla to Felia and Rylan"
"That's cool,your special friends should know one another" Anne said, rinsing her hand before setting out the veggies.
"Your hair cover Dan" She reminded him.
"Oops" He said, picking one.
He wore it over his hair and closed the refrigerator gently.
Anne wore her apron and didn't bother suggesting one to Dan because he hates wearing it,he rather mess his wears with stains than wear an apron.

"So when are you planning to do that?" Anne asked, slicing carrot after washing it properly.
"Tomorrow" Dan said, helping with another thing.
"Tomorrow? Layla doesn't even know our house..oh, you'll text the address to her" Anne said.
"No, Layla doesn't have a phone yet" Dan said.
"Really?" Anne asked in surprise.
"Yeah, so the meeting is gonna be in the coffee shop her aunt owns"
"Perfect! You'll sip coffee while you guys talk" Anne smiled and Dan smiled too.

"I'm gonna text Felia and Rylan tonight and explain to them"
"I'm sure they're gonna like Layla" Anne said.
"Layla is gonna like them too. Felia would be excited to now have a female partner, she's gonna ignore Rylan and i completely" Dan laughed.
"Yeah, she's gonna pay you guys back in your coins" Anne laughed too.

���

They chat as they ate in the dining room.

"Make sure to fill me in on how the meeting goes tomorrow" Anne said.
"Sure" Dan nodded.

They heard the sound of the door and knew their parents were home.
"We're home kids!" Their parents called out.
"We're at the dining Mum,Dad"

���

"I'm be going on a date with my husband tomorrow" Aria smiled as she told Layla.

It was Saturday and they tend to get more busy.

"You should go have fun, Sunday is the only free day you get to have during the week" Layla said.
"You too" Aria said.
"Well..i don't have anyone to go on a date with" Layla laughed.
"I'm just gonna go to church, return home and rest for the rest of the day" She added.
"That's cool too, you don't have to go on a date to have a nice day" Aria said.
"You're right" Layla said.
"Thankfully you have a friend now,i know he's gonna invite you out sooner or later" Aria said.
"Oh, Daniel" Layla smiled.

They got busy attending to customers for minutes before they finally got to sit again.

"You look good in this wear" Aria complimented Layla's flowery dress.
It was a short flay dress that her Mum had gotten for her and this would be the second time she'll be putting it on.
"Oh, thanks" Layla smiled.
"My mum had gotten it for me" She added.
"She did a good job in selecting it" Aria said.
"Funny enough,i didn't liked this dress then because it had looked so big on me but now..dresses are so unbelievable yunno"
"Of course" Aria chuckled.

"Look,we have new customers" Aria said, getting up. Layla,also got up.
She was yet to look at the customers who just walked in and when she did, there was a look of surprise on her face.

Daniel with a guy and a girl.
He smiled at her and waved.
She waved back at him, returning his smile.
Aria noticed the exchange and wondered who he was,his face looks familiar though but she couldn't really place a finger.
Could he be one of their regular customers..

He went to grab a table with his friends, waiting for Layla to join them.
"That's Daniel" Layla said to Aria.
"Oh" Her eyes widened.
"He's here with his friends to see you" Aria smiled.
She's so impressed with Daniel's look and nice smile.
"He might be here to have coffee with his friends" Layla said,she looked flushed.
"Should i go ahead to take their orders if you won't feel comfortable doing so?" Aria offered and Layla shook her head.
"I will do it" She said.

Layla walked to their table and she couldn't even understand why she felt so shy.

"Hey" She said to Daniel.
"Layla,how are you doing?" He asked.
"I'm good. Hi" She said to his friends.
"Hi Layla" They smiled.

Woah..they know her name already.

"What type of coffee do you want?" She asked, pressing her lips together.
Daniel smiled.."we're here to see you"
"Really?"
"Yeah and of course we will have coffee while at it too" Felia Said.
"Oh,fine" Layla said and sighed.
She knew Philia wouldn't take it lightly, seeing her sitting with Daniel and his friends instead of working.
They came here to see her, turning them down won't be so fair.

"Okay,i should take your orders first" Layla smiled.
They told her what they wanted and she marked it on the list.
"And Daniel, would you like to meet Aria,my colleague, i told her about you" Layla said.
"Of course" Daniel smiled, getting up.
They both walked to the counter and Aria smiled on seeing them.

"Hi Aria" Daniel said.
"Hello Daniel,how are you?" Aria smiled.
"I'm fine, thanks"
"I keep thinking your face looks familiar,do you think we've seen somewhere?" Aria asked.
"Probably, in this coffee shop. Although i don't really come in but our eyes do meet" Daniel said.
"Oh..yeah! You're the guy always peering in, were you looking for Layla then?" Aria asked.
"Yeah,but fortunately we finally met at school,a very formal meeting" He smiled and Layla laughed.

Aria smiled,glad to see how easily Dan make Layla laugh.
She likes Dan,he has this cool aura.

"Nice meeting you Aria" Dan said.
"Same here Dan" Aria said.

"Don't work too hard" He said to the both of them before walking back to his table.

"Wow, you really earned yourself a good friend" Aria said to Layla,who was preparing their order.
"I told ya" Layla smiled.
"He seems nice,cool and carefree"
"Yeah and he said they are here for me" Layla said, looking a bit worried.
"What's wrong with that?" Aria asked.
"Philia is definitely not gonna take it lightly when she sees me chatting with them instead of working, i don't want her embarrassing them" Layla sighed.
"Don't bother over that,if Philia gets to come out of her office,I'm gonna persuade her to let you be"
"And leaving you to attend to customers alone doesn't sit well with me,I'm gonna feel bad seeing you run around while I'm seated" Layla said.
"I'm not complaining Layla,i do it all alone when you're away at school so.. it's definately nothing doing it for just few hours your friend would be spending here" Aria said.
Layla sighed.
"Layla,this would be the first time people would take out of their time to come see you and you're gonna be refusing to see them just because of some silly reasons, c'mon" Aria said and Layla smiled at her.

Aria is just one of the best things that has ever happened to her.
She made life easier and more soothing for her.

"Thank you Aria" Layla said.
"Now go join them, they're waiting" Aria said and Layla picked up the tray containing their order.
"Hey, pull off your apron and hair cover,you don't need the coffee shop look while sitting for the first time with your friends" Aria said and Layla smiled.
She dropped the tray and pulled off her apron with hair cover,she adjusted her hair properly and Aria handed the tray back to her.
She smiled and quickly walked to Dan's table.

"I'm sorry for keeping you guys waiting" She said, gently placing the tray on the table before sitting on the chair beside Dan.
"Wow,you look much more pretty without that hair cover and apron" Felia said.
"Thanks" Layla smiled.
"She had looked pretty even on the apron and hair cover too" Dan said.
"Shut up, i said she looked much more pretty without it. Get another ears Dan" Felia rolled her eyes at him while Rylan smiled as he sipped his coffee.
"I think you need new mouth instead, a big fat mouth for a change won't be bad" Dan scoffed at Felia and Rylan and Layla laughed.

"Fool" Felia slapped his hand that was placed on the table.
"Ouch! You're pained" Dan laughed.
"Who told you i am. Fool" Felia scoffed playfully.

Layla smiled at them.

"Here's your own coffee Layla" Aria said, placing a cup of rich coffee in front of Layla who looked at her stunned.
Philia is gonna have her head for this.
"I..i " Layla was saying.
"On my bills" Aria whispered to her with a wink before turning to leave but she collided into Philia who looked surprised to see what was going on.

"Damn" Layla exclaimed inwardly.

"Philia,they are Layla's friends,they came to say hi to her. You don't have to worry about work, i'll do everything while she's with them. You can go back to your office" Aria said, swallowing hard.
"And who are you to send me back to my office. Would you leave my sight!" Philia yelled at Aria, pushing her out of the way.
Aria sighed, she walked away to attend to new customers, feeling so bad..
She had assured Layla she would stop Philia from embarrassing her friends but she wasn't able to do that.

"What's going on here?" Philia asked,her eyes so wide that it might fall off.
"Answer me Layla! Who are they?!" Philia yelled.
"They..are my friends Phil, please" Layla said, giving her a pleading look.
"Fine!" Phil said after a long silence,before walking away.
Layla sighed in relief.

"Her eyes looked so wide like a monster's while she yelled. That was so terrifying" Felia groaned, rolling her eyes.
"Who's she?" Felia asked.
"My aunt" Layla said.
"Oh my God..that slipped out of my mouth,i didn't mean to refer to her eyes as a monster's,I'm so sorry"
"No,it's fine. Her eyes indeed looked like a monster's, the biggest monster to ever live" Layla said, surprising them all.
"Oh well,I'm glad you reason the same way" Felia laughed.
"Does that makes us partners in crime?" Layla asked with a smile.
"OMG! I love this girl" Felia said hugging Layla happily.
They were both laughing while they hugged and Rylan and Dan knew they were in for it.

Zeemah

Episode 4

https://toriperi.com/my-crazy-house-help-episode-4/

Her last wish episode 10 & 11

https://toriperi.com/her-last-wish-episode-1011

Episode 3

�Rose's POV continues�

My eyes became wet again as I went into emotions staring deeply into his eyes..

It looked real and I could already see myself sitting beside him in class..

Wow!!!

"So you are really going to that school that is a real hell to the poor..this scholarship to get enrolled in that school was stopped long ago..do you know why?" She questioned with her arm akimbo staring at me..

I wasn't even looking at her, my gaze is on my dream man..

"Tell me why but don't think it would stop me from being the first person to register.." I stated dryly..

"You are really crushing on him, he may be so hot and handsome but I heard he was one of the student who started up the bullying of the scholarship student.." She kept explaining while I smile..

"I can never feel any pain if he beats me.. look at those blue eyes..ohh, I can't wait to see him..it would be a great sight.." I exclaimed crossing my arm over my chest..

"The only thing that is good in you is your amazing voice, I think Bryan and his crew would need it in his band.." She said and I smiled

"Just watch and see how I gets his heart, he must love me at all cost.." I squeaked and just then the door of my room sprang open and my mother walked in with her face sad..

"What...mom!!" I screamed and rushed to her..

She was very weak and her eyes was dimmed..

"Mom what is it?..are you okay?" I asked as I held her arm helping her to the bed..

It was clear there was something wrong..

"Ma'am, are you alright?" Clara purred as we both sat beside her on the bed..

She was very weak and was breathing abnormally...

"Do you know what kidney problem is?" My mom asked with a deep breath..

My eyes widened as I stared at her..

"One of my kidney is damaged, I have only one right now and I can't work anymore, I will be weakened for the moment.." She sighed and my eyes was covered with tears..

"But mom, where is dad??" I asked with a heavy heart..

"I already told you, he left us for another woman, I don't know what would be our fate now, you are our source of living now, my life depends on you..." She cried and I also cried hugging her to my body..

I could see pain in her eyes as she said those words, this Is the woman that had always wanted the very best for me, she had never want me to suffer a bit, that was why she had always do all the job alone...

"I promise to make you happy mom.." I sobbed..

"I over worked myself and got my kidney damaged, the doctor had instruct that I never do anything stressful, I'm so sorry daughter.. I'm so sorry you would have to work for us" she sniffed..

"It is nothing, I'm ready to do anything for you.." I said and she forced out a smile..

I turned to Clara and she was also sobbing..

"Mom, I would start work from tomorrow, you can never go hungry for a single minute, trust me.." I purred and she smiled again making me hug her again..

I love my mother like my life, when my dad abandoned me, she stayed and brought me up singlehandedly, why won't I do anything for her..

"It wouldn't be easy to make money for us..I'm really sorry..you.."

"Mom stop!!..do you think I'm a log of wood, I can do any work..cleaner, house help, chef, car washer..any of them..I can do it!!" I exclaimed and smiled at Clara who returned it and held my mom's palm..

"You don't know Clara well, she is a robot when it comes to work, especially when she has the picture of Bryan round her chest as a necklace.." She said and my mom laughed..

"Can't you see how she decorate our room with his picture, I wish she meets him one day so I'll rest.." Mara my mom said with a grin leaving me giggling..

"Mom I'll be meeting him in no distant time!!!" I squealed and she arched her brow at me..

"How??..are you ready to die?..how will you meet so a celebrity.." She questioned..

"I'll be in the same class with him, there is a free scholarship in the school he is..I'll register and like a dream come true, I will be a student and get to meet my long time crush.." I purred with my eyes glistening as I thought of what it would be like..

Wow!!..

'You are not starting any school..you can't go to school and also work, it would be too much " she said and I jolted up from the bed sneering at my mom..

"I rather do the both than leave this greatest opportunity..this is my only chance to see my dream crush, this is the only chance to talk to him, chance to touch him.."

I winked at the largest picture hung on the wall..

"So you also have his necklace round your neck??" My mother asked and chuckled..

"It shows he is my soulmate!" I laughed

"She would be bu.."

"Shut up!!!.." I screamed stopping Clara from saying that nonsense she had in mind..

I glared at her and turned to my mom..

"The registration is next week, I'll start work tomorrow and start school next week..I feel bad you got that kidney problem because of me, sorry for being a burden.." I breathed

"I'm happy I did all that for you, I know you would make me happy.." She smiled

"Why not!!..

"So it's evening, let me go get something for us to eat..." I said and dragged Clara's hand as we head out of the room..

"Are you mad!!..how dare you want to tell my Mon about any studies bully you are talking about!?" I scowled as we got to the kitchen..

"You won't understand, one of my friend committed suicide when she couldn't bear the bully and trouble from those rich and spoilt brat there in that school, it was part of the reason why scholarship into that school was suspended..." She explained but I wasn't moved a bit..

I am more than ready for all that...

Do you even know what is means to be sitting right beside Bryan...

Jeez!!..who even told me he would be sitting with me??

Arggh..he may have a girlfriend...

Gosh!!!!

His girlfriend would be very much rich and sophisticated than me, she may even have a great voice..eh..how would I be able to get his heart when he has his heart to her..

Eh..shit!!

"Rose!!!!!!" I heard my name and got back to reality..

"Where had you been?" She questioned staring at me in awe..

"Did I leave here??" I asked walking to the pack of plate to get some food for my mom, I had really forgotten she was waiting..

"You was lost thinking about Bryan right?" She inquired and I shrugged..

"Wait, does he have a girlfriend?" I asked stupidly..

why won't he he have a girlfriend, someone that is more than cute..

"He has a girlfriend that is 100 times better than you!" She said and I laughed out tears..

I don't want to think about that...

I dished out my mom's food silently..

"I'll be going before my mother starts looking for me!" Clara announced and I nodded..

The fact that Bryan has a girlfriend had really changed my mood, but how did i even thought he is single...

Gosh!!!

I served the food to my mother, she ate it all and I took back the plate..

Coming back to the room, my eyes fell on Bryan's pictures on the wall, they were all giving me reassuring smiles...

That made all my anxiety disappear..

Bryan likes me..

I chatted about many thing with my mother, we even played, finally, night came and we both slept off..

**************

Morning came faster than I wanted..

Shit!!!

It just shattered my blissful moment with Bryan, my dream is always so sweet that I prays for dawn to take a year before it comes..

I wanted to go back to sleep when my mind drifted to what my mother said to me yesterday, I would need to work for us to eat...

I got up from the bed and rushed out to get prepared...

"I'm off to look for work!!" I squealed as I made my way out of the small house...

**********

It was much easy and faster than I thought..

I got five works at a time..

Chef, restaurant attendant, pizza delivery staff, cleaner, nanny...

Omg!!!!!

It was really tiring than I thought, I would do all one after the other,

Argh!!!

I am very tired and dizzy right now, I can't see clearly.. My legs are even wobbling..

My phone rang and it was my manager in the pizza store...

What..

I am tired!!!!!

"Rose..please I know you are done for today but, it is very urgent, come quickly, you will deliver some pizza to someone!" He said

"I am not coming!!!..call another person!!!" I yelled and was even about to off my phone when I heard what took me aback..

"You are taking it to Diamond musical school..someone ordered for it!!!"

My heart skipped beat...what if it is Bryan...

What?

So I would enter that school now...

Why would i not go??

I would be seeing my Bryan!!!

With speed, I ran back to the pizza store,

Today would be my best day,

I must hug Bryan when I sees him...
���
To be continued...

Let's watch her as she hugs Bryan..
������

Episode 9

"Why do the students stare so much?" Dan asked Layla after they disengaged from the hug.

"That's because it's me,I've always been stared at" Layla said.

"Oh, i'm so honored to be sitting with a celebrity" Dan teased and she laughed loudly.

"This is a class yunno!" Chloe screamed from her seat, startling them.

She has been burning with rage since she saw them hugging.

"I'm sorry for disturbing, everyone" Layla said.

"It's fine Layla" Most of the students said.

Chloe faced her table with a huff.

She was so mad right now.

She wants him to herself, she's the school queen and she should date the best.

Perhaps she should find a way to move her seat closer to his.

Then she would get to talk to him more often and he would see she's far better than that fat African!

She's so sure Layla might be using jazz on him,why else would a good looking guy get close with an ugly person who had once bit him.

Perhaps,the jazz was in her teeth!..Chloe widened her eyes at the thought.

She turned back to look at Daniel who was smiling as he talked to Layla.

'And now,the cutie is trapped' she thought sadly.

She wouldn't mind using a jazz to trap him too though.

"I told ya,they are ready to change their bad history into a good one" Sabrina said.

"Just shut up!" Chloe yelled.

•°
"And..how's your back?..i mean the teeth bite" Layla asked, pressing her lips together shyly.

Dan smiled. "Better, how's your leg?"

"Healed long ago" Layla said.

It only showed a scar now,a raw one and it's still quite painful.

"Seems,the pinkie doesn't like you" Dan said to Layla.

"She doesn't and i don't like her either" Layla said.

"Obviously" Daniel smiled,he turned to the guy who wanted his attention.

He chatted with him for few minutes before turning back to Layla whom he caught staring at Dylan.

Wow.

She rubbed her cheek, embarrassed when she realised Dan caught her.

"He wanted me to help him with a topic" Daniel said to Layla, referring to the boy he had chatted with for some minutes.

"Oh" Layla smiled.

She feels so excited Dan had told her,it really confirmed they were friends now.

"Do friends tell one another everything?" She asked.

"Of course,close friends tells one another almost everything" Dan said and Layla nodded thoughtfully.

Perhaps, Dylan shouldn't be blamed.

He had told his friends about how he felt when he had kissed her just because that's what friends should do but his friends had gone ahead to spread it all over the school.

Dylan shouldn't be blamed,she felt so bad to have blamed him..

He might be feeling guilty to approach her,she should say hi to him later and make him know it's fine, it's no big deal.

"The teacher is here" Dan said.

"Hey guys, my friends wants me to eat with them today" Anne said to Dan and Layla.

Her friends do get pissed with her during the times she eat with Layla instead of eating with them and now she's glad there's Daniel to keep Layla's company while she's with her friends.

"Go ahead" Layla smiled.

"Okay" Anne walked to her friends, they went to get their lunch and then sat round the table to start eating.

She looked over at Layla and Daniel,they were eating already, chatting in the process.

Anne smiled.

"Your brother is so good looking" Jessie smiled admiringly.

"And i heard he's intelligent also" Kate said.

"Of course Dan is just perfect" Sarah added,chewing her fries,she's the closest to Anne and she has been to her house severally,she had known Daniel even before he resumed Ocean high School.

"He's so friendly too,i said hi to him and he replied with a smile. God,i almost melted" Jessie grinned.

"He replies every other person the same way, don't feel too special" Kate rolled her eyes, she's the sauciest of them.

"I know right,you don't have to point it out to me. At least I'm one of those he smiled at" Jessie hissed.

"Anne,you should tell him to eat with us some other time. I want everyone to see how lucky we are to be your friend,they should get jealous when they see we're closer to your brother than they are. I bet everyone would want to join our group of friends" Kate smiled.

Sarah sighed and shook her head at Kate's thought.

Kate uses her flat mouth to spill unreasonable talks most times.

"If you want him to join us sometime,i hope you know Layla would be coming with him" Anne said, knowing Kate is among the people who doesn't like Layla.

She gets most pissed at Anne whenever she eats with Layla and would refuse to speak to Anne and Anne being the cool girl she is would go ahead to talk to her anyway.

Kate hissed. "Does she have to come with him?"

"If you don't want her to,then i won't be joining you guys to eat because there'll be no one to eat with Layla" Anne said.

"Why are you so obsessed with this girl?" Jessie wondered aloud.

"She really needs to be asked that question!" Kate said, raising her voice.

"Hey! Do you have to make your foul spit spill out of your mouth to my food just because you're talking!" Sarah said crossly at Kate.

"That was a stupid thing to say! My saliva is not foul and i don't spill it when i talk!" Kate said.

"Oh,my sight wasn't clear right?"

"Probably" Kate raised her brow.

Sarah pushed her fries away angrily.

Kate drew it close and continued eating from where Sarah had stopped.

As serene as Anne is,one wouldn't know she has crazy friends.

"I won't be surprised if you had intentionally done that just so you could eat my fries. Stupid foodie!" Sarah said.

"I'm not cut for you at the moment. Anne,you really need to answer that question" Kate said, chewing the fries and making delicious sighs just so to piss Sarah off.

Sarah huffed.

Anne passed her remaining fries to Sarah.

"No,I'm good,you don't have to do that" Kate said.

"I'm done eating already, you can have the rest" Anne said, gulping water.

"Thanks Anne" Sarah smiled, giving Kate a 'i-won' look.

Kate ignored her and turned to Anne.

"Anne, you're yet to answer our question,why are you so obsessed with that girl?" She asked again.

"Maybe because everyone else avoids her, perhaps if she wasn't been avoided by everyone,i wouldn't have felt the need to always move close to her" Anne said.

"I don't know her offense exactly,why do people hate on her so much" Sarah shook her head.

"Stop talking like you didn't once hated on her too!" Kate rolled her eyes.

"I did because i was so dumb to have believed Chloe's slandering" Sarah said.

"But now..it's clear to everyone Chloe tarnished Layla's image just to make everyone hate her" Anne added.

"Yeah and any reasonable person should have stopped hating on the poor girl having realised that" Sarah said and Kate glared at her.

"Whatever..just make your brother eat with us some other time" Kate said.

"But how come your brother is so close to her just a day after resuming? Is obsessiveness in your blood? Or could the girl be using jazz! Oh my God! Yunno she's African" Kate said and Anne laughed.

"Layla is using no jazz, she and Dan met before now" Anne said.

"Oh, no wonder they are so close" Jessie said.

"Yah" Anne said.

They chatted about other things as they ate.

•°
"We're officially friends now,i want you to tell me more about yourself" Dan said.

Layla smiled. "Okay"

They were done with their lunch, and then decided to wait and chat before the bell rings.

"I am Layla Moremi Williams, partly African. My father Michael Ajagun Williams is Nigerian, from the Yoruba tribe which automatically makes me a Yoruba too. My mother Celine Marton Williams is American which makes me partly American too, I'm sixteen,I'll be seventeen in two weeks time..."

"Wow, Moremi" Daniel smiled, interrupting her and there was this feeling inside of her when he mentioned Moremi.

He'll be the first person,the first friend of hers to call her by her native name.

It stirred a feeling in her that she didn't even knew existed.

"Did i get the pronunciation?" He asked hopefully.

"I can't say,you pronounced it the way i did and I'm not so sure i got the pronunciation correctly myself, if you're so determined to get the pronunciation correctly, you'll have to listen to my aunt pronounce it over and over"

"I don't mind,i love the name" Daniel said.

"So much" He smiled.

"Thanks" Layla smiled "Should i tell you the history behind it?" Layla asked.

"Yes please" Daniel said eagerly.

"Okay..Moremi was the queen of ile Ife Kingdom,Osun state. Nigeria.." Layla started with smiles.

•°
"Wow" Daniel said, intrigued by the story.

"That's one hell of an intriguing story,it captivated me" He added, it made him love the name more.

"Yeah,there are so many intriguing histories in Africa. My father named me Moremi because he also loved the name and wanted me to be the best of myself" Layla said.

"I would love to start calling you by your native name, Moremi" Dan announced and Layla's eyes widened.

"Really?"

"Yeah,i had thought Layla was a beautiful name not until i heard Moremi. I love it,maybe because it's uncommon. I'ma gonna stick to that name" He said.

"Do you have..to do that? People are gonna.." Layla was saying.

"I don't have to care about what people would say,as long as I'm happy doing what i want" Daniel said.

"Wait.. don't you love your native name?" He asked.

"Of course i do,so much" Layla said.

"Are you probably bothered that calling you by your native name would remind people that you're African and they'll start hating on you and avoiding you again?"

"No,i don't care if anyone avoids me. I have you and Anne now"

"Good, okay i get it that we're in an environment where they are not used to the name"

"Exactly" Layla said.

"How about i just stick to Layla then and call you Moremi whenever i feel like."

"Fine" Layla smiled.

"Okay,so Moremi..continue please" Dan smiled.

"I lost my parents and only younger sibling, and now I'm staying with my aunt, Philia who owns the coffee shop we first met" Layla said.

Dan stared at her,struck by what she must have gone through losing both parents and only sibling!

Coupled with how she had been treated in school and yet she's still standing firmly on her feet.

God! She's so strong.

He doesn't think he can survive loosing his parents and Anne, he can't even imagine his life without them.

Her pathetic life at this young age almost brought tears to his eyes and he's more determined to protect her.

"I'm so sorry about that Moremi" He rubbed her hand affectionately, staring at her with pity.

"Com'on it's fine, I'm over it. It happened long ago" She smiled and he knows no matter how long ago it was,the pain will always be there.

"I'm so sorry once again, starting now..you have me and Anne okay? We'll always be there for you" He said reassuringly and she nodded.

"Thanks Dan,thanks so much" Layla said.

"Okay..i should continue" She smiled.

He likes that she smiles often,it makes her more endearing.

"I have relatives in Nigeria,Lagos State.."

"Really?" Daniel smiled.

"Yeah, Aunt Esther,she's my father sibling and her son David,asides my parents,they are the only ones who calls me by my native name and well you too" Layla smiled and he smiled too.

"They are my father's only relatives that i know of and i love them so much,they are still one of the best people i know,I'm so happy to have them in my life or i would have broken down completely. I do call them frequently when i still have my mum's phone with me" Layla said.

"And you don't anymore?" Dan asked.

"I do but not as frequently as I'd love to"

"Why?" Daniel asked.

"The phone is not in my possession anymore,it's in Philia's"

"You don't have a phone of your own?" Dan asked and Layla shook her head.

He sighed "I was thinking of getting your contact so we could chat over the weekend"

"Ah,I'm sorry to have disappointed you" Layla laughed.

"It's fine,but the phone in Philia's possession shouldn't stop you from not calling them regularly, Philia should give it to you whenever you need it,it's your mum's phone and...she's not supposed to take it from you in the first place" Dan said.

Layla shrugged.." I guess it's because she's always busy with the phone, doing business and all"

"Oh" Daniel sighed.

"Yeah,so that's all you should know about me,at least for now"

"My turn" Daniel sat up properly, clearing his throat.

Layla laughed.."You look like you want to deliver a very important speech,all you're missing is a well ironed suit and a microphone"

Dan laughed too.

"I'm Daniel Keyes,a full American, seventeen years of age,i love getting along with people,i love making friends,i hate bullies and backstabbers. My parents and Anne are the people i love most in the world,i have a lot of friends but there are two special ones and now they are three. I don't make someone my special friend that quickly because being 'special' to me means i really like you and to really like you,i would have studied you,it took years for me to have those two special friends but there's this particular particular person that i feel it doesn't have to take years to make her one,i don't know what she did to me" Daniel said and Layla blinked profusely.

Dan smiled. "Do you mind knowing their names?" Daniel asked.

"Of course i don't" Layla said.

"Felia Summers,Rylan Whitney and..Layla Moremi Williams" Daniel said and the bell rang.

Layla stared at him numbly,not getting up.

"C'mon,let's go to the class" Daniel smiled, pulling her up. He knew she was surprised,if not shocked.

"Get into the car,we will give you a lift" Anne said to Layla who was about leaving after bidding them bye.

"Yeah, we'll give you a lift" Dan said.

"Don't bother" Layla said.

"We want to" Dan said.

"My house is a bit far" Layla said.

"Isn't your house around the coffee shop?" Dan asked.

"Yeah" Layla nodded.

"Our house is farther, miles after your coffee shop,so get in" Dan said.

"Hm,i insist don't bother, i'll take the bus. Bye" Layla waved running off before they could stop her.

"Coffee girl, see you on Monday" Dan shouted after her and she laughed.

He was about turning with Anne,to head towards the car when Dylan stopped him.

"Anne,go into the car,I'll come join you" Dan said.

"Okay" Anne said, walking away.

"Hi" Daniel said.

"Hey" Dylan said, giving him a piercing look.

"You want anything?" Dan asked after few minutes, getting uncomfortable with the silence.

"What's with you and Layla?" Dylan asked.

"Oh" Daniel smiled and then laughed.

Dylan stared at him with furrowed brows.

"You like her?" Dan asked.

He knew with the way Dylan had glared at him in class that he probably likes Layla.

"It's rude to answer a question with a question" Dylan said, irritated with Dan's behavior.

Seeing Dan resume Ocean high pissed him off badly, he hates having someone to compete with,he was the king of the school not until this guy came along, stealing every attention from him and even Layla who can't do without staring at him is now so occupied with the new guy that she now rarely spares him a glance.

The girl who was so obviously in love with him,the girl who had almost collapsed when he complimented her hair,she had danced happily and he laughed from where he watched.

The most annoying part is the new guy even turned out to be more intelligent! the girls do not care about him any longer,they are all focused on Dan now.

It irks him so much,he wishes Dan would disappear.

He's taking everything from him!

"Well..Layla is my special friend, there's nothing going on with us,you're free to go ahead with her" Dan said.

"Go ahead with her?" Dylan laughed.

"Ye..ah, don't you like her?" Dan asked.

"Like her?" Dylan snorted.

"It's rude to reply a question with a question" Dan stated Dylan's words to him and Dylan bit the inside of his mouth angrily.

He hates the fact that this guy here unnerves him without even trying to.

"And why did you say 'like her' with such a disgusting look, like..she's not human or not worthy to like" Dan said.

"Thats because you really need to know i do not like her,i don't even have a tiny bit of feeling for her. She's cool for a friend though" Dylan shrugged like he was considering it.

"Not liking someone romantically shouldn't warrant that look, of course everyone is free to turn down whomever they don't want to be romantically involved with,it doesn't have to be such a big deal. I heard you embarrassed her after a kiss. C'mon that's bad of you. It's petty for real" Dan said, resting his back on a car.

Dylan hated that Dan maintained a normal look, his emotions wasn't visible on his face and that annoys him so much.

He had planned to unnerve Dan but he's the one being unnerved instead.

"Are you trying to force your own opinion on my decision? I have the right to make whatever decision i want" Dylan said.

"Of course you do, everyone does but there are some decisions that lacks sanity,for example, why would a sane person compare a human lips to a dead log of wood and you even added it wouldn't lit up if ignited by a wide burning fire. I'm not questioning why you felt that way but going around to tell everyone..that is lame,even if you hadn't felt anything while kissing her,even if that moment wasn't special to you,even if your own lips was too dumb to feel anything, you should have at least cared about her feelings. You don't even know if she held on to that moment like gold,you don't know how much the kiss meant to her. You knew those words would hurt her and you still went ahead to say it! Is that how much of a petty asshole you are?" Dan asked, expecting an answer like it was any normal question.

Dylan glared hard at him, wishing he never approached him in the first place.

He would never have believed Dan would render him speechless,he had approached Dan so prepared and now there's nothing left to say.

Everything he had planned to say,the words he had planned to unnerve Dan with erased completely from his head.

"Well..i wasn't expecting an answer for that anyway but you really need to answer this question..You claim not to like her,why then did you approach me asking what relationship we have together?" Dan asked and Dylan determined not to let Dan have the last words braced up for an answer.

"Because she needs to be protected from assholes like you! You're a fake! You're faking that friendly behavior of yours just so to be loved"

Daniel laughed. "I was right,you're so petty, who fakes a friendly behavior... do you do that? that's bad,you should change your ways if you're guilty of that. Anyway, you're so lucky i've not resumed Ocean high when you hurt Layla but now you're not so lucky anymore,hurt her and get to face me. I just hope you're well trained in taekwondo,that was my specialty in Prestige high school" Daniel grinned wickedly and Dylan wouldn't lie he got shivers.

"Layla is my special friend and i go all the way for my special friends so Dylan,be careful" Dan said.

"Please" He added, before walking away.

He was keeping Anne waiting,he would have loved to speak more sense into Dylan.

Dylan stared at Dan as he got into the car,the car drove off almost immediately and he released the breath he didn't know he was holding.

"What the Bleep!" He screamed angrily.

Thanks for reading

Wahala for who no be special friend o

Please who's selling the special friend form..i want to buy o

Episode 8

Ouch!" Daniel groaned as Anne applied soothing balm on his back.

"I thought you told Layla it didn't hurt at all" Anne said.

They were in Dan's room, minutes after they were back from school.

Dan laid flat on his chest,shirtless as Anne applied the balm on his back,he was doing his homework in the process.

"I can't possibly tell her it hurts, didn't you see how bad she already felt,she would feel more bad if i tell her otherwise" Dan said and Anne nodded in agreement.

"And we'd both be lieing if we really believed that her leg is healed and that the pain was just for a short while"

"Yeah! Burns do not really heal quickly and they hurt so much" Anne said.

"She only said that to make us feel better, i had to make her feel better too" Dan said.

"You did the right thing. I'm so glad we finally got to meet the coffee girl and to think it turned out to be Layla..wow" Anne laughed sitting on the edge of Dan's bed.

She was done applying the balm.

Dan smiled. "She seems like a nice girl but when triggered,she's one crazy girl"

Anne laughed.

Dan dropped his pen and faced Anne.

"You won't believe i just heard 'Hot Coffee' while i was checking out the timetable on the wall and the next thing i knew was someone biting me so hard" He narrated.

"Oh my God" Anne laughed hard .

Dan was tempted to join in the laughter and he did.

"I bet people had to pull her away from you" Anne said,still laughing.

"Exactly! and a girl with a pink hair said she's African and Africans teeth are like axe. Layla told her to be careful or she's gonna get hacked by her axe" Dan said and they both continued laughing.

"You must not have believed she was the African i do tell you about" Anne chuckled.

"I doubted it and i told myself there must be another African in the school, that this surely couldn't be the gentle one my sister tells me about" Dan said and Anne laughed harder.

"I'm glad she's free of the bullies and all" She said.

Dan nodded.."No one seems to taunt her anymore,looks like they are scared of her instead"

"Serves them right,you needed to see how badly she was being treated before, standing up for oneself really goes a long way" Anne said.

"Of course, the bullies were so lucky to have stopped taunting her before i resumed,you know how much i hate bullies" Dan frowned.

"Yeah i do,there are a lot of them in Ocean high school and the only person they mostly bother is Layla, thank God she's free now" Anne said.

"Left to me,i don't think they were hating on her because she is African,if most of her bullies were females,then they were probably jealous of her. Layla is still without doubt one of the most good looking females in that school and she has this great body none of them has" Dan said.

"You're right, being African is just an excuse to hate on her"

"Yeah,they should just be called jealous assholes" Dan said and Anne chuckled.

"Yeah, because why would you hate on someone and even hurt them just because they are more good looking and better than you are,that's wack as hell" Dan said.

"I think people like that should be called petty assholes instead" Anne said and they laughed.

"What's the deal about the Dylan guy, seems Layla has the hots for him" Dan said.

"Yeah she does,i feel so bad for her,you won't believe he embarrassed her after they shared a kiss during a truth or dare game"

"Really?" Dan asked, sitting up.

"Yeah,he said her lips tasted like a dead log of wood that wouldn't even lit up if ignited by a wide burning fire" Anne said.

"Oh my God!" Dan exclaimed.

"He also added that he has never felt so sick after kissing someone"

"Wow" Dan furrowed his brows.

"And that coming from Dylan would have hurt her so much, Dylan is known to be a big flirt,he kisses almost every girl who wants to be kissed and i don't think he has ever embarrassed any of them that way"

"That's so bad of Dylan, even if he had felt that way,he shouldn't have embarrassed her by telling everyone about it. That's immature" Dan said, irritated with Dylan's behavior.

"Perhaps he had treated her that way because of how Layla is viewed, he might have felt an African is not up to his taste" Anne said.

"Then Dylan is another petty asshole" Dan said.

"Sure he is" Anne toyed with his bedside lamp.

"When did it happen?" Dan asked.

"Just yesterday" Anne said.

"Woah..I just hope she's over the embarrassment" Dan said.

"Looks like she was,she doesn't look bothered with anything while she was with us"

"Yeah and i hope you weren't caught eating in class" Dan grinned.

"No, bad influence" Anne said and they laughed.

"Oh my, I'm so sorry about that Layla" Aria said after Layla narrated the ordeal to her,the reason she was so down yesterday.

"It's fine,I'm over it now" Layla smiled.

"Im glad you are but you're so strong,those terrible words are so hard to get over so soon" Aria said.

"I didn't do that on my own,my new friends lit my mood" Layla grinned.

"Your new friends?" Aria asked in surprise,she smiled as she faced Layla.

Layla has never mentioned the word 'friend' to her and she knew it was because she had none, she knew Layla wasn't treated well in school and she has always feel so sad about that and now..did Layla just mentioned 'friends'

They had even helped her get out of the depressing mood that silly thing almost threw her into.

Who are those angels?

"Yeah,they are my friends even though they didn't say that to me but they are. I already take them as mine. What we shared today might not be enough for them to take me as a friend but it is enough for me. They are the only ones in school who accepted me for who i am,even when others tried to make them abjure me. They are just so kind" Layla said, almost laughing as she remembered the burger escapade.

It was fun.

She didn't knew breaking a school rule would be that great..

She doubt if she has ever broken any school rule and well she didn't regret breaking one today.

The teacher had almost caught them when they laughed but they had been lucky.

"I'm so glad you finally have people to call friends after a long time" Aria said, hugging Layla.

Layla is the first kid she's ever met that has such a difficult life at her age, no friends,no parents,no siblings, only an aunt who made her life more unbearable.

Most time,she wishes Layla would come stay with her but of course that's not possible.

Seeing the joy on her face now when she mentioned her new friends almost made Aria tear up.

Layla is so excited over what most teens have dozens of and even discard as they wish.

She's so excited because she never had one.

She knows how much Layla would appreciate her new friends,they would be the first friends she had had in years and she's really gonna go all the way for them, they are really lucky to have her as a friend.

"Uhm..Aria,i need to go attend to customers" Layla said.

"Oh,my bad" Aria said, disengaging from the hug.

Aria smiled as she watched Layla take orders diligently.

She wondered with a frown why Dylan would treat her that way.

He had even made her cry, that was so wicked of him.

He dashed the hopes he had given her.

So bad most times good things aren't appreciated, having someone like Layla in one's life is a blessing.

She's one of the few people with a heart of gold, Layla is so selfless,she's always ready to help.

She doesn't deserve the sort of life she has but then again,life and it's ways.

Aria is glad things are starting to turn out better for her though.

But how could that asshole call her lips a dead log of wood!

Layla returned from serving the customers.

"How could that guy call your lips a dead log of wood!" Aria said and Layla smiled.

"I'm sure it had been a mistake,he told me he didn't mean for it to spread all over the school" Layla said.

"Wh..what are you saying?" Aria asked,arching a brow in disbelief.

"Don't tell me you've not gotten over him" She added.

"Get over him?" Layla laughed.

"I love Dylan so much than you can imagine,i love him enough to forgive him for every mistake he makes. Mistakes happen almost all the time,we all make them" Layla shrugged.

"Oh my God, what has come over you? Isn't it so obvious this guy doesn't respect you,he doesn't even love you or he would never have embarrassed you that way"

"It was a mistake Aria" Layla said.

"Did he told you it was?" Aria asked and Layla drummed her fingers on the table, giving no answer.

Dylan hadn't said it was a mistake,he admitted saying it,he admitted feeling that way,he only apologized for the words spreading all over the school.

"He compared your lips to a dead log of wood and you call that a mistake? C'mon Layla"

"Just let it go, besides we were starting to get close before that happened,i really hope he starts talking to me again" Layla said hopefully.

"What! you mean he didn't even talked to you after that? He didn't apologise? Wow, fantastic" Aria clapped dramatically.

"He's gonna come around soon" Layla said as she walked away to attend to another set of customers.

"If i hadn't experienced love, Layla would have almost made me believe love is a bastard" Ariana said as she prepared to go pick her kid.

"You're getting real better in preparing meals nowadays" Philia smiled as they ate dinner.

"Thanks Phil" Layla said.

They continued their meal in silence and when they were done, Layla sorted the dishes.

She joined Phil in the living room when she was done and they watched a movie together..
~
Layla remembered she has homework to do as they were set to watch another movie.

"I'm going to bed" She said to Philia as she got to her feet.

"Goodnight" Philia smiled and Layla knew one of the men who do shag Phil is coming around tonight.

Whenever Phil stays up this late,it means she's expecting someone. Phil is an early sleeper.

Layla walked to her room,she fetched her school bag,sat on the bed and started her homework.
*
She went to freshen up for the night after she was done with her homework.

She wore her soft nightwear after drying her body.

She made her bed,about to get some real sleep when she realised she had to drink some water,she's thirsty and if she refuses to quench it now,it would wake her up in the midnight and she won't be able to continue her sleep.

She slid her feet into her footwear and walked out of her room.

Walking past Philia's room,she shook her head as she heard moans.

She got to the kitchen,downed a glass of water,rinsed the cup and returned it to it's place.

As she walked out of the kitchen to return to her room, she realised Philia hadn't even turned off the TV and lights in the living room.

The shagging must really mean a lot to her.

Layla turned off the TV, switched off the lights and then run back to her room, covering her ears as she passed Philia's room.

Philia was moaning like cow that's being slaughtered and it's so disturbing to her ears.

She locked her door as she got to her room,switched off the light and got under her blanket.

She switched on her bedside lamp and stared dreamily at the dim light, reminiscing how her day had went.

She smiled.

"Did you switched off the lights and TV?" Philia asked Layla the next morning.

"Of course i did" Layla said.

"I went to get water and saw you forgot to put off the lights and TV" She added.

"Well thanks" Phil said, preparing Layla's allowance.

Layla was fully dressed for school, standing in front of Phil as she waited for money.

"Here" Phil handed some dollar notes to her.

She said thanks as she collected it.

She quickly counted it and discovered it was more than what Phil do give her,far more than.

"Phil..." She was saying.

"Yunno the pizza fee i deducted from your allowance the last time,well..it has been returned to you" Phil said.

"Thanks but even at that,the money is still more" Layla said.

"For preparing a good meal yesternight and also turning off the TV and lights" Philia winked.

"Wow" Layla smiled, Philia can be unbelievable at times.

She does unexpected things that makes one either love or dislike her.

Things that makes one happy or sad.

She's glad Philia unexpected act this morning had made her happy.

"You should run along" Philia said, getting busy with her phone.

"Thanks Phil, Bye" Layla said.

"Bye"

She took the bus today, having more than enough money,her legs should at least rest from trekking even if it's just for today.

Layla drew in a breath before walking into the class.

She was glad no one mocked her anymore,they seem to have forgotten about it.

Gracias!

They only stare at her for some seconds when she walked in and then faced their businesses.

She walked past Chloe's seat who deliberately muttered 'dead log of wood' to her hearing.

Layla ignored her as much as she could,she glanced at Dylan's seat and saw him seated, chatting with his group of friends.

His eyes met hers and it lingered for few seconds before he looked away.

Perhaps he felt sorry and maybe would talk to her soon.

She smiled at the thought as she finally got to her seat.

Her smile grew wider when she saw Daniel whose eyes has been on her since she walked in,he saw how she had smiled when she looked at Dylan and then knew she's yet to get over him. She looked so in love with him with the way her face had brightened up,just so bad her love was one sided.

Dylan doesn't look like someone who would want to have anything to do with her.

"Hey" He smiled back at her.

She was already seated.

"How you?" she asked.

"I'm good,your smile tells me you're good too" He said.

"Yeah,my aunt gave me extra allowance this morning" She said.

"Wow, really?" Daniel smiled.

"Yap" Layla said, realising she didn't needed to tell him, the way it had skidded out of her mouth is yet to be understood.

Perhaps she's overexcited to finally have someone to tell things.

Daniel and Anne would be her first friends since she resumed Ocean high school.

"Did i...sounded childish?" She asked, pressing her lips together.

"Childish? No, you didn't,you were only excited and you decided to share it with your friend,there's nothing childish about that" Dan said.

"My...friend?" Layla asked.

"Ye..ah, aren't we friends?" Daniel asked with a raised brow.

"Do you consider me as your friend?" Layla asked, blinking hopefully.

She took Dan and Anne as her friends already but she wasn't sure they took her as theirs,she wasn't sure what they shared yesterday was enough to make her their friend but she was really hoping it would.

"Of course we're friends Layla" Daniel said.

"Really?" Layla's face lit up.

Daniel nodded.

"Thank you" Layla said happily, surprising Daniel by hugging him.

He was so surprised she could hug him just because he took her as a friend but then he shouldn't be,he knows her story,he knows he was probably the first person to call her a friend since she resumed Ocean high school.

She must be so excited to finally have a friend after a long time.

He had dozens of friends that he couldn't even count, friends he doesn't even care enough about and here's someone who's so happy to have just one.

He felt emotional as he hugged her back.

He can't imagine how she must have felt for years without having anyone her age to talk to,to confide in,to cry to, laugh with and share silly things with.

He would make sure to fill that vacuum,he would make her happy and make her feel the joy of having a good friend.

He would make up for all the years she's missed without a friend.

Yeah,he would do that.

She deserves it.

He smiled "C'mon Layla"

"I won't let you go" She said and he laughed.

"You're the first person,since i got to Ocean high school to ever make me your friend,thank you" She added.

He was still smiling when he caught Dylan's gaze,it looked like he had been staring at them for long,he didn't really looked pleased at the sight with the glare he was sending towards Dan.

Perhaps,it wasn't one sided like he had thought.

Zeemah

Episode 2

�Bryan's POV�

I felt my heart growing in pain and regret..

I regret every single moment I had with her, I never knew once in my life that she would treat me this way,

I was gradually becoming lonely and bitter hearted, looking at women around makes me remember her, right now I hates every lady, I don't know if I also hates her because I still silently pray for her to return back to me..

My whole system was changing to something I can't explain..

I looked around and saw some student gazing at me and I felt angered, their peer alone is making me feel like killing them..

For real, I am hating everyone..

I was really turning into something else, every lady I set eyes on becomes my enemy instantly, it would just be like she is the cause of what Sophia did..

I contort my face into a deep frown before heading back to the class..

�Jace's POV�

"Hey Bryan what's up?" I inquired as I saw his expression..

"Get lost dude!!" He blurted and my eyes widened in shock..

I was so much startled at what he just said.. I didn't even want to believe he was talking to me..

We are good pals right from kids, we sings together and you can call me his brother because we does everything together sharing secrets and gist...

"What did you say to me?" I questioned but he gave no reply and went to his seat with grim, he wasn't smiling a bit..

The stern face even went more deeper when he saw Sophia with Austin..

Oh god!!

That must be the reason for his being morose..

I thought he had moved on.. I thought he had agreed to forget about Sophia not knowing that he still long for her, he had taken her out not long ago..I wonder what she said to him...

"Bryan, what is really wrong with you?..can you must stop this attitude" I rasped and he didn't even glance at me..

His gaze was straight and there is no doubt he was passing through a lot as I could see his eyes dim in pain..

I wish I could help him but I can't, Sophia had taken her choice, I even wonder why he can't move on with another lady, there are very beautiful and rich girls around..it seem he got attached to Sophia forever..

"The more you think of her, the more you feel the pain more severely, can't you just develops feelings for another lady?...many are drool and longing to have you.." I said to myself because he had already fixed an ear piece in his ear..

I was infuriated so I plunged it off making him raised his brow at me..

"You got to listen to me when I speak and not deafen your ear with that!!" I snorted and he squeezed his face..

"Do you still think we are friends?" He asked and I arched my brow..

"I don't understand??"

"You couldn't help me get her, no one could..no one of you all was able to bring her back so I hate you all, don't dare talk to me or act like we are friends..I have no friend!!" He spoke out in the most coldest voice I have ever heard..

I stared at him in shock and opened my mouth to talk but he left the class just then leaving everyone shock...

I had never experienced the type of Bryan..

I was really overwhelmed..

Slowly, I went back to my seat and waited for lesson to began, I wonder where he even went to, guess he isn't ready for school any more..

Three lesson went on and came to an end before the school bell rang for break time..

I rushed out of the class in search of Bryan my friend, I can't understand him anymore..

Was he really changing to a loner and introvert?

I searched around the school environment and couldn't find him..gosh!!

He may had went home, I wonder what his father would do about this new Bryan..

I just pray he changed as soon as possible because he can't be this way and still wins the national singing competition, he can't be this way and sing with a female singer, he got no girlfriend anymore and isn't ready to have one, how then is he gonna find the lady to perform in the stage with..

I'm really scared...

�Rose's POV�

"Are you a human?...answer me now before I kiss you!" I said to my god,

Hey, don't mind me...I was talking to this most cutest man in the history of mankind..

His name is Bryan and I finds it hard to accept him as a human, he is an angel..how can a human be this perfect, so hot!..sexy..!..charming..!

Gosh!!!

I love him so much, he is my life and breath..

Talking about his song, it is the only sing I regard as a song others are noise in my ear...

I would song along with him anytime I listen to his music, people tells me in had a great voice but what is the gain?..I'm I going be a singer one day??

Right now, my phone battery is already dead because I had been playing his music repeatedly..

Well, my name is Rose, a young lady who aspire to marry Bryan..

Biggest dream right??��

I know it can't happen but in my dream it happens continuously and I'm enjoying it..

I'm a poor girl with her mother living in the slum..we got no business with the rich..what can we offer when we can't smell a car or even wear a bright cloth...

Hey, everyone living in this area are poor!!!

I am in a different world with him but I feels like we would one day meet, I don't know if it was my usual wishes but seriously..Bryan is my dream man..

Wow!!!

Just then, my door opened and I don't need a soothsayer to know it was Clara my best friend, she is the only one that doesn't knock before entering...

"Have you gotten his latest music?.." I asked immediately as she slumped on my small bed..

"Look at this!" she squealed showing me something from her phone..

My eyes widened as I saw the news...

�Scholarship to enter Diamond Musical High School has begun�

"Isn't this the same school where Bryan is??" I asked with my eyes glistening with emotions..

You can't tell how my heart is beating now..

"Yeah!!..are you applying?" She asked and I felt like slapping her..

"You are not well for asking that question.." I scoffed and turned to Bryan's picture on the wall..

"I'm coming honey.." I smiled and blew a kiss..

"I'm not applying, it is risky!" He said and I sneered at her..

"You would be treated badly by the students..they sees scholarship student as the misfortuned, be ready to bear their bullies.." She said and I smiled..

"Do you know how sweet it would be to be slapped by Bryan?..that tender and soft palm, If it touches my lips, I'll blush for a week!" I grinned and stared at the news again..

"I feels like bursting right now!!..omg!!!.." I exclaimed and grabbed one of Bryan's picture..

"When I told you I am coming, it wasn't a lie..now wait and see.." I laughed as the picture smiled at me..

Wow!!!!

I can't wait any longer..

�(She defiled me)�

Episode 1

�Bryan's POV�

Another roll of tears went down my cheeks again and I felt my heart pained so badly...

It was really terrible and shocking..
I had never believed it would turn this way,

How would she do that to me?

How would she left me shattered after knowing how much I love her, how much I really cherished her..

I am feeling so drained and had been in tears for some hours right here in my private room which I had made for my self and her alone,

This is a place we both come and spend time together singing

Today, I am here alone because she had dumped me for another guy..

Right now, I am hating ladies and everything about them, this building is near the school and is restricted for anyone else to get in,

Since she left me, this is where I comes to cry anytime I comes to school and sees her making out a great time with Austin her new boyfriend..

Do you know how it feels to be jilted by someone you loved so much only for her to start up another relationship with a guy who is your rival in music..

You can't know how it pains because you may not have experienced it..
It is very much painful than anything you can think of...

Sophia had been my one and only girl since childhood and our life together had always been great and perfect,

She is a great singer like me and we are both making waves.. we had always been the talk of the town and a centre of attraction, ladies wishes and pray to be like her, men who was her dying crush wishes they were me..

We were like god to many due to our great voice and stunning beauty..

but..that night shattered everything..

It was a night I would never forget,

Just like every other day, I had decided to give Sophia a surprise visit..

Remembering that night makes my heart bleed every second..

I had got to her house and was welcomed with the sound of moan and groan..
I creep into her room and for the third time again, Sophia was having a hot round with Austin..

This Is the the third time I would be catching them in the act, I had always forgiven her when ever she asked for forgiveness each time I catches them..

I was really furious and screamed her name, I was ready to show my anger by shouting while she begs for forgiveness not knowing I was in for the worst..

I really loved Sophia and was ready to forgive her again if she would plead for forgiveness but the unexpected happened..

She yelled at me and sent me out of her house, the next day, she sent me a breakup letter..

How can I bear this?
She is my first love and to be sincere, I can't love any other lady if it's not her..

She is my match and I still loves her so much..

I sniffed and walked over to my piano..

With a sorrowful heart, I started a song, a song of heartbreak, an emotional song that really made me broke down in tears..

I don't want to believe she is gone for real, I need to go and beg her again..

Who knows she may accept me back, she may accept me.. I need her in my life, I don't mind pleading till dawn.

Singing with her on the stage is always the best thing that always happen to me,

Our voice is the real match for any song, we had always topped every other singer, how would I cope right now when she is gone,

I can't love any other lady, not even for a single minute of my life..

I stood up and more tears rolled down,

I am the emotional type so i feel too hurt to even talk...I am going to beg her for forgiveness..I am going to plead for her to accept me back..

I had did this some days ago and had received painful words from her, she had called me many awful names which really shattered my heart..

I had told myself that I am not gonna beg again but right now I can't hold on anymore,

I need to go out there and plead again, she is the most important person in my life, I need her like I needed my breath..

I got out of the room after drying my eyes..

I pray she accepts me back because I may break down if she snubs me again..

My name is Bryan,

The name that is always on the lips of everyone especially ladies both in school and in the town..

Yes..

I got millions of fans around the world, people who couldn't do without my songs,

I had already rose to fame at the age of 20, right now I am a billionaire on his own, also my parent are stinking rich..

Many people sees me as a demi god or some kind of Greek god reincarnated because I was very handsome..

Ladies drool and faints in emotion whenever I pass by, they all wish and dream of me, everyone wants to stare at my face,

I had been a calm and nice person some years ago but at this moment after Sophia had hurt me, I am very cold and wouldn't hesitate to frustrate the life of any lady who crossed my path and got to my nerves..

I really hates ladies now because they are heart breaker..I want to frustrate their life so badly..
I detest their sight and wouldn't have anything to do with them, I wish I can also hate Sophia this way..

Walking to my car, I felt a rush of anxiety in me,

What would Sophia really do when I comes back begging knowing I had seethed at her to go to hell the last time she ignored my plea..

I wish I can stay back and let her be but it is very hard, impossible!!

I needs her beside me,
I hate Austin so much for taking her away from me, why??�

I drove back to school feeling restless..

Finally, I reached, parked my car and walked out..

Omg!!!!

"Look at him!!"

"The Greek god!"

"So cute!"

"I love you!!"

"Please look at me!!"

"Is that his real eyes??"

"Geez!!"

My face was grim as I head to the class ignoring those swoons and drools if the student, I could see their eyes wet as they day dream of having me..

Yuck!!

I got to the class and an uproar occurred, the students especially the ladies kept murmuring with their gaze fixed on me..

Just as my gaze fell on Sophia and Austin, I felt my heart grow heavy..

My legs became weak and I was really close to tears..
They were holding each other passionately..

"Sophia can we talk?" I spoke out dryly trying hard to hide my emotion..

"Me and you??..I don't understand?" She gawped and I sighed.

Austin was also staring at me..

"Let's talk somewhere!!.." I blurted and grabbed her hand leading her to the school garden where there were no or few people..

"Why are you doing this for real??" My voice cracked in emotion..

"Do what?" She asked with a sneer..

"What is my crime?..please tell me and I'll kneel down and ask for forgiveness.." I spoke out with a wet eyes

"Bryan, so you came begging again??" She laughed sarcastically

I couldn't talk, my lips were just shaking..

"I never liked you, was just playing with you, how could you even think I was in love.. No..I am not and you can't even be my boyfriend, Austin is more better than you, so stop all this..you can join other student to crush on me, stop acting like I am your girlfriend, everyone already knew we had broke up..." She smirked and left..

I felt empty, it was for real..

She is gone..

To be continued

Like and comment