Today, I made a bold decision to break free from the shackles of college and grant stress a well-deserved vacation. When I shared the news with Es, her response was a mix of relief and jest, "About time! You've been stuck in the nerd zone for far too long." It dawned on me then that my inner circle often teeters on the edge of playful bullying, with me as their prime target.
Then there's Elijah, a unique blend of sarcasm and humor. His reaction to my impromptu day off was characteristic, "So, Es spilled the beans about your little escape plan, huh? Don't worry, I've got your back. Just give me a shout, and I'll come running faster than a caffeine fiend to a coffee joint. Consider me your knight in shining armor."
His message brought a smile to my face; Elijah was indeed a masterpiece of absurdity.
In a hurry, I ran a hand through my chestnut locks, ensuring my black top and boyfriend jeans were free of any stray lint, and gave myself a quick once-over in the mirror. Not bad, I thought, considering the circumstances.
Descending the stairs in haste, I caught sight of my parents on the sofa, engrossed in a discussion that seemed far weightier than the usual small talk. Oh great, they were gearing up for the post-mortem of yesterday's events. With a resigned sigh, I mentally prepared myself for whatever interrogation lay ahead.
As I joined them, I noticed the tension in the air. My mom's worried expression was a dead giveaway. I perched on the arm of the sofa, attempting to look nonchalant.
"So Layla, about what happened yesterday, if you're okay with it, can we please talk about it?" Dad asked gently.
"You need to talk to us, baby," Mom added, her expression clearly one of concern.
I nodded, trying to channel my inner picture of serenity. After all, I couldn't let them figure out that I was more scattered than confetti in a windstorm.
"I get it, you guys are worried. Sorry I put you through that," I said with a half-apologetic grin. "It was just me stressing about college and overthinking every little thing. Not a big deal. I'll be fine, and I promise to tell you if something major pops up."
It was a blend of truth and a sprinkle of misdirection-I hoped they'd buy into my polished narrative. They didn't need to know about the mental circus that took place a couple of days ago or how my brain cells decided to go for a swim yesterday. Sometimes, it's better to keep certain things under wraps, even from the most well-meaning detectives.
Mom sighed, shaking her head. "We have no choice but to trust you, even though you've been known to sprinkle a little glitter on reality." I gaped at her, surprised. Apparently, it was "Playful Jabs at Layla" day, and I hadn't received the memo.
"And you guys are the reason I'm having these panic attacks; I might just put on a circus act next," I scowled, giving my so-called parents a sideways glance.
"If you're feeling like these panic attacks aren't easing up, or if the anxiety is spiraling we can head to the hospital. Medications can make a big difference, you know," Mom responded, seamlessly ignoring my previous jab.
I couldn't even recollect why I had that panic attack last year. What baffled me was the absence of anxiety before my accident. The doctor's theory was that the panic attack might have been like a spark that ignited a fire of anxiety post-accident. Talk about an unexpected parting gift from my face-first fall.
"Mom, seriously, I've got this," I said with a hint of exasperation. My look probably matched the countless eye-rolls I'd thrown her way.
She raised an eyebrow, mock sternness on her face. "Alright, drop the expression, young lady. It's my job as your mother to worry."
I chuckled. "If you keep dishing out these lectures, I'll pack my bags and move out. Then you can have your own one-woman show, starring you and the walls."
I used to have my own place before, but after the accident, they insisted I move back in with them. Oh, the joys of overprotective parents. Even though it got exhausting at times, at least I didn't have to worry about the bills on top of being a sleep-deprived student.
"Sort out your anxieties and clear out your stuff soon; your 'complain-about-everything' act is losing its charm," I heard her quip with Dad breaking into laughter beside her.
"Did my panic attack somehow mess with your brains?" I emphasized the word 'your,' raising an eyebrow as I spoke.
"Alright, alright, enough of your never-ending argument. Now shoo before I lock you up in your room; you look like you're about to embark on a grand adventure," Mum said, pointing her finger towards the door.
Seriously, wasn't I supposed to be showered with affection? Instead, there I was, being treated like a dog's chewed-out toy.
"Okay, fine, you and your BPD disorders," I said, my lips curling into a small smile. Dad snickered, earning him a glare from Mum.
"I'll be back by nine PM, alright? I've taken the day off, and I just want to wander around for a bit. So, relax, I'll be fine, and I'll call you guys," I assured them, making my way towards the door.
"Careful," Dad called out as I settled into my car, ready to make my way to the Graceful Hearts Orphanage.
********
Author's note:
There is part 2 for this chapter guys! I hope you enjoy!
YOU ARE READING
Our Last Dance
Romance"I don't want this to be our last dance," I said, biting my lip hard to stop my tears. "Last dance? No, love," he murmured, offering me a faint smile. "This is our first dance of forever."
