Of Friendship and Tough Choices II

^{Link to first chapter}

I'm scared. I'm frustrated.” She paused and tilted her head up so she was looking at me. “I don't want it. I really don't trust him with this one. My mom will disown me if she finds out and my uncle will cut me off the little allowances he gives me. He wouldn't even pay my school fees anymore. So no.” she broke down completely and sobbed into her palms.

I dropped down to her level and pulled her in for a hug. “It's okay. We'll figure something out.” “Will we?” She pushed out of my embrace and gazed at me with glassy, swollen eyes. I nodded and stared into space.

“I asked around, and they said it's expensive to get rid of it. I'm so broke.” “Tell him to give you the money for it. State your reasons, and if he doesn't, get back to me. I'll give you the money. I won't watch anyone ridicule you for something you obviously don't want.” “I did tell him, and he said I should use my money to get rid of it if I didn't want to keep it, as he instructed. He said it's my life, my choice.”

“I think this happened so you could finally erase that alien from your heart. I dislike him terribly.” She grimaced and stood to her feet. “I ended things. I just needed a little help.” “How much are we talking about here?” She swallowed, and the movement of her throat made it clear that the amount she was about to mention was either going to shut me up or make me laugh. Either ways the money had to come out.

My eyes shone when she finally mentioned the amount. It was a ridiculous, but one I could spare for a friend. I had the amount at home, so I pulled it out and handed it to her. She cried on my shoulders and thanked me until she couldn't find her voice anymore.

“I'll get it done tomorrow. Wish me luck,” “I'll see you in school next week.” I kissed her on the cheeks and waved goodbye as she disappeared into the dark.

“She'll be fine,” I whispered and shut my eyes. Part of my worries were resolved.

---

It's a Monday, and the day of Excel's presentation. Her group mates are lined up in front of the class, and she's nowhere to be found. I never got a call or text from her since we last spoke, and I'm worried sick if she's okay.

Before the group's leader could give a premise on the essence of the presentation, Excel walks in. She's dressed up in nice corporate wear. Her hair is tinted blonde. She got eye bags but they're less visible. Her face is brighter, and her smile when our eyes meet calms the raging storm in my heart.

“You saved a life,” I breathed out and adjusted in my seat, bracing up to make her laugh, but I knew she had sworn in her heart never to glance at me while speaking to the class.

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