[THIRD PERSON]

        “We need to talk.”

        The person on the other end smiled humorlessly. “Yes we do.”

        “You…you knew it was me, right?”

        “Good to know you haven’t forgotten about how much I know you.”

        “You know why I did that?”

        “It’s not so hard to guess.”

        “I…I…I’ll tell her the truth. Just not now.”

        “What, you think I’d tattle on you?”

        “Since you know me so well, you should also know why I’m doing this. I just want to know if she cares.

        The person on the other end smiled bitterly. Oh she does…

[TOP]

        I opened the door, trying to ignore the curious looks from the butler and other servants who are shooting questions at me with their eyes. Sighing, I climbed onto my motorcycle, and was about to slip on my helmet when I caught side of a bundle of brown hair disappearing behind the bushes.

        I couldn’t help but let a small smile win over my frown. There was really no stopping her, was there? I walked over to the bushes, and gently yanked her “apple” hair, as she calls it.

        “Ouch.” She rubbed her hair and looked at me reproachfully. “You could’ve just told me you found out where I was, you know.”

        “Where’s the fun in that?” I couldn’t stop the fondness and warmth I feel for her from returning. I decided there was no use. “Why are you here?”

        “To see if you’re okay.” She looked at me with those doe-like, innocent eyes, and I felt guilty immediately. “OK, that was stupid. Of course you’re not okay. But I still had to see you to feel better.”

        The guilt, if possible, implanted all over my body. I don’t think I’ll be able to shake it off.

        “I’m sorry…about shooing you away yesterday. I didn’t mean it, it wasn’t-“

        “That’s okay!” She beamed at me, making me feel even worse if possible. “I understand!”

        She doesn’t understand. She’s saying that to make me feel better. Minute by minute, I’ll be so eaten up with guilt that she wouldn’t be able to see me.

        “Look, Dara.” I sighed. “I’m really sorry. I know you didn’t do it. Forgive me?”

        Dara looked at me in confusion. “But I thought-“

        “Friends?” I held out my hand.

        “Friends!” Dara squealed, and gave me a tight hug without warning. I smiled to myself, inhaling in her sweet scent. Looking up, I saw a silver convertible parked in front of the gates, with its owner leaning onto it casually. Our eyes met, and I felt, if possible, worse than ever as he drove away.

        But, at the same time, I didn’t let go of Dara.

        “I’m glad we’re frie