Novels2Search

Chapter 2: Courageous Desy

The sky’s dark, stars twinkled on a clear sheet of black, a crescent moon curving the darkness, dogs barked at an individual making his way to a destination in a hurry.

I have to get to her, I must! He thought.

Sweating, panting, hopping over lawn fences, his face determined to get to his destination; With his teeth gritted, furrowed brows, determined; It’s Andre. He’s in a hurry, motivated, sweating in distress, concerned over today's earlier events. More notably what he had to see happen to his beloved friend before being taken away from her distressed calls.

Desy… Desy! Please be okay, I’m coming!

Feeling worried for her well being and safety, Andre’s rushing to her home. While he lives an hour away by walk, with his athletic nature he’s able to endure a long painful marathon to condense the journey to just thirty minutes.

With his breathing heavy, an eye half opened from fatigue starting to catch on, Andre shouted into the night, shouting, “Desy, I’m coming!” Picking his pace up faster to get to her home.

Back inside her tiny home, her mother who’s still asleep, snoring, finally awoke from her slumber from an intense gurgling sound coming from her stomach.

“Hun-Hungry…” She muttered.

She rose from her sleeping position, scratched her head, yawned, and smacked her gums.

“Hu-Huh…?”

She then realised the blanket that was on her. Bringing out a subtle smile. Her mother turned around to look at her daughter's closed door.

Aww, my adorable daughter, you always take good care of me, tehe!

She got up, stretched beyond belief and obnoxiously yawned.

“Alright, time to make dinner before this bitch has to go back to her night shift… Being a nurse sure is a pain.”

As she took a couple steps forward, a sudden barrage of banging noises were coming from the front door.

“Who in the hell could that be at this time? Sheesh…”

She walked up to her door, and shouted at whoever was banging to “Fucking chill out!” She unlocked it and opened the door, finding Andre with his hands on his knees, bent down.

He’s very tired, panting heavily, and drenched in sweat.

“Ms-Ms, ahh, gi-gvie me a mo-moment…” Andre said with a raised finger.

Desy’s mother giggled. “Oh Andre, what brings you here to our home at this time?”

Catching his breath, standing straight, Andre took a deep breath to speak properly to Desy’s mother.

“Ms. Addison… is-is your daughter okay?!”

Hearing his tone and the definition of concern smeared on his face, knowing how far he lived made her feel worried about her too. She reeled her hand to indicate to him to come inside without answering him. He walked inside, and Desy’s mother walked to her daughter's door.

Knocking on her door, her mother said in a soft tone, “Desy, are you okay? I’m awake, my little gumdrop.”

Her daughter’s currently laying her head down on her desk, releasing the last remnants of her sorrow by sniffing. Her eyes bloodshot, baggy, she raised her head and replied to her mother in a calm tone. “Yes mom, I’m-I’m fine…” She sniffed again and wiped her eyes.

Her mother crossed her arms and tried opening the door but it was locked.

“Is that so? Because if you were fine this door wouldn't be locked and…”

She turned to Andre who’s on standby and winked at him.

“...Your friend Andre wouldn’t be here in a worried, panting state.”

At first Desy got up from her chair, not thinking coherently about what her mother just said. Walking to her door and being an inch away to unlock for her mother, it finally hit her. She blinked rapidly, her hand hovering over the door knob, tilting her head, Desy’s face was consumed by red. Her mother knocked again and again to wonder why her daughter’s gotten so quiet again until she heard a loud embarrassed shriek coming from behind the door.

Desy’s eyes swirled, she muttered words, and her body started shaking.

“An-An-An-Andre’s—?!”

Desy’s mother giggled. “Yes my adorable daughter, he’s here and worried sick about you.”

Desy can’t handle this. Instead of opening the door she ran away and jumped onto her bed, cowering beneath her blanket.

“Te…ll him I’m sick, nobody is he-here!”

Andre walked to her door and knocked while her mother stepped aside and watched in amusement.

“Desy! Open this door please. Otherwise I’ll force my wa—” He cringed and forgot that her mother was beside him.

He looked to his right and saw her mother giggling up a storm because of what he was about to say. Andre chuckled forcibly, scratching the back of his head.

“Oh my! The wording in that has potential in putting you in a jail cell Andre huehue!” She laughed while hovering one of her hands over her mouth.

Andre lightly blushed but regained his composure. “Whoops, Ahem! Come on Desy, open this door!”

Desy’s losing control of her emotions. He’s never been inside her home before; the closest he’s ever gotten was just their plain yard. With love punching her chest, bravery sinking deep down her bowls, and anger beating her head, Desy didn’t want to miss this opportunity to hangout with him. She mustered the courage to gently grab the lock, unlock her door and carefully open it. The two saw it slowly creak open, but just ¼ of the door. Andre grinned and at first he wanted to push the door open for her, but she mildly stuck her head out, introducing him to her adorableness.

Desy looked at Andre and quickly looked away.

“He…llo, Andre.” she said.

Andre replied with an open mouth smile.

“I’m so glad you’re okay, Desy.”

She blushed and stuck half her body out, revealing Andre the physical toll her body endured today, which made his smile fade. On her forehead was the wound from the curb stomp, her right knee still freshly wounded, and hand marks on her chest from being pushed, this made Andre furious. Seeing her so bruised made him clench a fist. Her mother was also mad to see her daughter in this shape, it made her immediately hug her daughter.

“Desy… who did—all of this to you?!” she said, rubbing her daughters back.

Desy sighed and gently eased off her mother. “Typical, but it’s not too bad, mom.”

Hearing her casually brush off her abuse made Andre take action. Out of nowhere, he grabbed her wrist with slight aggression. Desy glanced at Andre, and saw his hidden anger beneath the shadow of his bangs. Her mother didn’t like him gripping her wrist, but she saw his body slightly trembling, showing her that he was more concerned about her than she was.

Andre controlled himself and the shadow disappeared, showing Desy the eyes that she loved staring into.

“Please, Desy… don’t make this normal for you. It makes it seem like you don’t value your life.”

Desy at first gasped, feeling her heart bounce. But reality stormed into her thoughts, reminding her that their lives are completely different. She understood where Andre was coming from, but for her to take his advice, the boy that she loves; even she knows it’ll change nothing. All the pain she’s endured from being bullied, the suffering, it’s already made all this a normality for her.

Desy pulled her hand away from Andre, which surprised him.

“Andre…” she murmured.

“Desy…” he replied.

She looked deep into his eyes and didn’t say a word. Her mother tried grabbing her daughter's attention, tugging on her daughter's arm, she didn’t like how still her daughter had gotten. She continued tugging, but she wouldn’t budge or keep her eyes off of Andre.

This didn’t bother Andre. Instead he put his hands on her tiny shoulders and got closer to her.

“Whatever you’re thinking, Desy… don’t think that this is it. We’re both still young, so don’t assume that it’s hopeless down the line.”

A tiny grin grew at the edge of her lip. Desy grabbed both of Andre’s wrists and took them off her shoulders, taking a deep breath. Andre wanted her to respond to his advice; at least a hug would do or have her say something extremely generic like, “You’re right!” or “I’ll do my best!” Instead, Andre was met with just a confusing small grin. It left him to wonder what it meant, raising more questions about her mental state. Her mother also wanted her to do something like hug this strange boy who cares for her daughter. Desy’s mother walked behind her daughter and wrapped her arms around her.

“Desy, tell your precious mother what you’re thinking.” Ms. Addison said.

Desy closed her eyes momentarily and once they were opened, they were glistening again like earlier today.

“I’m… hungry, mom.”

Both Andre and Desy’s mother glimpsed at each other and brought their eyes to Desy. The two softly laughed and Desy also giggled. After consolidating more about her feelings, Desy volunteered to cook for the two. Her mother was more than happy to allow her daughter to cook since she still felt tired from her long overnight shift. Andre was curious to see Desy in action, but primarily what her food tasted like. The three made it to the dining room just behind the living room and the two sat as Desy began to prepare their dinner. Desy tied her hair up and got the utensils and food she needed and got to work.

As they waited, Andre couldn’t keep his eyes off of Desy. He watched her cut meat, fresh greens, clean them, carefully smear the meat on a hot pan, and with such professionalism. Seeing Andre pay attention to her daughter’s cooking made Ms. Addison smile and feel proud of her daughter. Even she never knew how good Desy’s gotten. She would normally come home and just crash although she did question whenever she did wake up there was always good food on the table. She either concluded she was either drunk or slept walk; now she had her answer which made her relieved.

As she was coming close to finishing, Andre just couldn’t help but smile even more. This amazed him, but even with his strong willed mind focused on academics, it was no match for his curiosity as a young teen. The boy’s eyes throughout her cooking show quickly caught a glimpse of her angles, stretching that exposed her stomach, and her bending over at times: Andre realised his perversion and smacked himself, making Ms. Addison jump from its explosion. Desy looked over her shoulder and one of her shirt straps was falling off, and Andre’s nose felt hot.

Ms. Addison finally realised what was going on with him and it made her laugh.

“Oh my, you’re getting older alright, Andre!”

Andre gulped and looked at her, feeling caught red handed.

“No no no no, it’s not what it looks…” a sudden drop of red fell on the table from his nose, leaving him speechless.

Ms. Addison laughed and Desy smiled as she watched two people she deeply cared about get along. Andre covered his nose and turned mildly red, but also chuckled on being caught. While the two were busy laughing, one being teased on his upcoming adolescence, Desy had just finished making dinner. The first plate she had served was to her mother, a dish she loved. It was brown rice with cuts of steak, medium rare, steamed vegetables along with a nice cup of black coffee.

Ms. Addison got up to give her daughter a ginormous hug.

“My little Angel! You’re so wonderful, I’m so glad I have someone like you in my life!”

Desy giggled and replied to her mother’s embrace by wrapping her arms around her neck. She swung her daughter around and Andre couldn’t help but smile at them. Yet he felt sad because of the financial situation that they’re in. He wished he could do something to fix their issue but he’s only 15; even if he did try to convince his parents they’re picky on who to donate their money to. They might not be the richest but they had plenty to share. After she finished swinging her daughter, Ms. Addison sat down, Desy went back to grab Andre’s plate and the young mother started praying. Andre joined in as well before being served to show respect and grace.

Once he was finished, his dinner had just been served.

“Holy…”

He was speechless at the food that had been placed before his eyes.

“Is-Is this… my favourite dish?” he said, letting drool come out the edge of his lip.

Desy meanwhile was too busy setting up his spoon and fork, lastly placing a cup of coke next to the dish.

“Enjoy, I hope you’ll like what I made, Andre.”

Andre shifted his eyes to Desy’s face; half of it shined from the light behind her head.

“Desy…”

She too looked into his eyes, and Andre’s heart began to race.

“Yes, Andre?” she replied with that soothing innocent tone of hers, but making it sound softer than usual.

Looking back at their early childhood, the events of earlier today flashing before his eyes; a different feeling began to emerge in Andre: A feeling in which he finds distractable and a nuisance to his path of success. He couldn’t reply with anything else but be swallowed by her seductive gaze. Never before has these sentiments of love appeared, until recently. First it was the beginning of the year, second being near years eve, and now, being close to graduating eighth grade, Andre can’t seem to control his hormones. Even thoughts of lust were trying to overcome his academic mind. He averted his gaze, and shut his eyes. Ms. Addison let out a sigh, and understood as to why Andre fought his emotions. She’s known him since he was just eight, and from that beginning knew he was destined for academic success.

“Young love, such a tedious thing to fight.” she said.

Desy on the other hand wasn’t letting it off as easily. She instead put one of her hands on his, and slowly caressed it. Andre gripped his pants with the other, and Ms. Addison quickly intervened, gently grabbing her daughter.

“Desy, my sweet little sugar plumb, don’t make your best friend uncomfortable now. Let's all eat and discuss what action I have to take to make sure no one harms my girl again.”

Andre opened his eyes, and nodded.

The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.

“A-Agreed! Let's eat, Desy. I’ll make sure to inform your mother of those bitches that hurt you. Oops… didn’t mean to cuss there.”

Ms. Addison giggled. “Don’t worry about it Andre, now sit Desy and let's devour your amazing craftsmen ship!”

Desy brought out a grin. “Alright, and Andre, afterwards, could-could I tell you something… alone.”

Andre replied with a smile. “Of course! I’m here for you, Desy.”

The three went on to destroy Desy’s amazing cooking. With the three sat in enjoyment, laughing, catching up to what Ms. Addison’s up to, the discussion of Desy’s bullying crept its way in. Andre told her of the main accomplice, his childhood friend Sindy. Hearing her name made Ms. Addison let out a loud groan, annoyed at the fact the girl has become such a degenerate. Without hesitation, she reached for her smartphone and dialled her mother. Once her mother picked up, Desy’s mother let her have it. She shouted, screamed vulgar language of Sindy, and demanded she apologise to her tomorrow, but Desy knew this wasn’t a good idea. She listened to her mother speak to her childhood friend who happened to be the mother of her enemy spout retaliation. Although, in Desy’s mind, she’s mentally preparing to pay for her mother’s action tomorrow by Sindy. Andre didn’t like the look she was making, and didn’t hesitate to reach for her hand, and grab it. He massaged her hand with his thumb to ease her down.

“Don’t you dare think you’ll allow them to hurt you tomorrow, Desy.” he said.

Desy’s mother got up from her seat and left, continuing her shouting. Desy remained quiet as that feeling of rage swoop in, blinding her vision in red. All she kept thinking about were ways of harming Sindy and her friends, before they could try to enact any sort of action on her. She thought perhaps after Sindy tells her about her mother snitching on her, before any action can take place when the school bell rings for the day's end; she can plan a way to hurt her before she takes action. This gave her a half grin, a grin which made Andre feel uncomfortable and not fit for someone like her. He couldn’t take seeing her in this state and got up, dragging her off her seat.

She snapped out of her blind rage, and blinked multiple times.

“A-Andre…?”

Andre kept his smile, and jolted his head.

“You wanna tell me what you have in mind now that your mother is busy?”

Desy replied with a soft smile, and nodded. This time, she reversed their grip, and she guided him to her room. Andre took a deep breath as she turned her door knob.

“I-In there?” he said.

Desy turned round, and leaned against her door with her hand still on the knob.

“Yeah…”

Andre swallowed, and let out a sigh.

“O-Okay…”

She slowly opened the door, letting Andre get struck with her scent. It made him shake, feel butterflies in his stomach; he was beginning to feel cowardly. Desy gently grabbed his hand again, dragging him in, and he took a glance at everything. He’s never been in her room before, especially alone. The nerves in his body tingled, his male hormones were going haywire, all Andre could do was wait. There was a brief pause of silence when it got impacted by the door closing behind him. Desy walked around, in front of Andre in a seductive manner. She gently sat on the edge of her bed, tapping next to it for him to take a seat.

“Andre… come here.” she said in a seductive tone.

Andre’s mouth mildly gaped as he heard her new tone. He took a quick breath and played cool, walking, sitting next to her.

“So, Desy… ahem. W-What did you want to talk about?”

Desy put her hands on her thighs, and grinned. For a moment it was nothing but silence, and seeing the side of her face, Andre could tell she was deep in thought. Finally, it appeared she was ready when she mildly tilted her head, and lowered it with her grin still intact.

“For a long time, Andre, I questioned where I was heading in terms of life.”

She brought her hand up, staring at her palm.

“Was it to always suffer in poverty? Trying to overcome my enemies, grow a pair of guts to defeat them? Or perhaps, follow in the same footsteps as my mother.”

Andre shook his head, and grabbed her hand. She turned to him, and the two locked eyes.

“You think too negatively, my sweet friend. For someone your age, you do speak very maturely when there isn’t a crowd.”

Desy giggled. “You always sound grown, Andre.”

Her gentle smile, that adorable giggle made him blush, and let go of her hand. He rubbed the back of his neck, and forced a chuckle to ease his nervous state.

“Th-thanks, I guess. But, Desy, you still have plenty of time. Stop letting people step over you. You have many people that deeply care about you… I—care about you, the most.”

Desy’s eyes quivered, and her smile faded.

“I hate seeing you suffer, I hate when I can’t be there for you, I hate leaving you alone, but most of all… I-I—”

Andre dragged his hand over his face, fighting his emotions. But, he decided, this was the perfect time to confess, and let go of such a troublesome feeling if meant for a clearer mind. After what John has said earlier in the day, the known signs throughout the years, he knew he was right about his feelings towards her. Once his hand was off the end of his chin, he furrowed his brows, and grabbed her hand again, clutching it with both.

“—hate that it’s taken me this long to realise that I… love you, Desy.”

Desy’s world of red and black shined, gleaming hope into her future. Her eyes glistened and her heart felt ready to explode out of her chest. She replied with a blank stare, but her eyes told Andre that she was more than happy to hear his confession. After a moment of silence, she gently pulled away, and eased her way closer to him, wrapping her hands behind his neck. She pulled him down, and forced him ontop, and his eyes grew big as he was in a position he thought he’d never find himself in. She began to softly moan, and he too, but took many breaths to control his lustful desires.

“For a long time, Andre… my feelings for you haven’t changed since elementary school. In the side lines I watched, developed this new feeling, and once I knew, I had to confess it before you did, but—”

She slowly wrapped her legs around his waist, and he grew even more nervous, shutting his mouth.

“—it looks like you beat me to it, dumby.”

Andre glowed red, and shut his eyes for a moment. Desy caressed his back, and dragged one hand from it to his face. He reopened his eyes, and Andre couldn’t contain it much longer. His hormones have won, and he put one of his hands on her chest, which made her moan.

“De-Desy… I’m-I’m sorry…”

Desy smiled, and caressed his cheek.

“Don’t fight it, Andre. This is just your body telling you how much you love and care for me. Allow it to happen because I want no other person to touch me, but you.”

Andre had no clue that Desy was this type of person. Never would he have imagined she’d act such a succubus and tempt him into a sexual act. Although he tried more to fight, the nature of being close to manhood has beaten him, and it made him furious. Feeling conflicted, he paused and slowly crept his way close to her face.

“Andre…”

“Desy…”

With the two edging closer, her door had been bombarded with a knock from her mother, which spooked the two and right away, they pulled off, and got in a seating position. The two were so red and embarrassed that neither could answer for her mother.

“Hey! What are you two doing in there?! Let me in, Desy!” her mother shouted.

“M-Mom! You’re so embarrassing…” Desy replied, covering her face.

Desy dropped her hands, rolled her eyes, but giggled, getting up to open the door for her mother. She pushed it open, sending Desy flying. Ms. Addison looked red, but curious in nature.

“Andre, you didn’t do anything to my sweetums, did you?!”

Andre waved his hands.

“No no no! I-I swear!”

Desy got up, and chopped her mother on the head.

“Gosh darn it mom! You’re too much?!”

Ms. Addison laughed and patted Desy.

“Aww, my little Desy, I love it when you’re sassy.”

Desy turned more red, and sighed. She shifted her head towards Andre, and gave him an adoring smile.

“I guess it’s time for you to go now, is it, Andre?”

Andre let out a sigh of relief.

“You’re right, it’s getting late. Plus I still have homework to do.”

“Andre, I’ll take you home since it’s almost time for me to go to work.” Ms. Addison said.

“No, it’s okay, I can just walk back home.”

Ms. Addison approached him and put her arm around his shoulders, which made him blush.

“A young handsome guy like you, walking alone during this time?! Are you crazy! No, come on, get your smart, athletic ass to my car, taking you home, homeboy.”

Desy pouted, “mom… no ghetto talk.”

“Oops! My bad!” she giggled. “Come now, Andre, but give me like five minutes to change into my work clothes.”

Andre couldn’t say no to her request. He nodded and she wandered off while the two were alone again. Desy let out a loud groan filled with her embarrassment and confusion.

“Oh, my god! Andre, I’m sorry if I acted so devious! It’s just that… When you confessed, I-I got so happy that I just couldn’t control myself.”

Andre approached Desy, and gave her a hug.

“It’s okay. And I apologise for going too far too.”

Desy smiled, and wrapped her arms around him.

“From here on out, if you’re ever in trouble, don’t be afraid to get me. I’ll always come and save you, Desy.”

Desy’s eyes shook, but more so in dread. She didn’t want to be in the way of his academics and a distraction in his path for succes. To ease his worry, she replied by saying, “alright,” while they remained embraced. Once her mother was ready, she shouted for Andre, and he let go. The two took one more glance at each other, and he gave her one last smile, the smile she loved seeing, and the one that’s now hers. Having that feeling embarked in her has given her confidence like she’s never had before. He gave her one last hug before saying goodbye and going off with her mother. The two left, and she watched the car leave the driveway as she stood at the front door. Seeing her hero and love of her life drive away and to see him another day transformed Desy into another being.

She brought her eyes to the clear night sky where a twinkle had shone.

“Andre… is mine now.” she muttered.

She brought out a grin, and softly blinked.

“And I’m now… his.”

Her grin became more edgier but she realised and shook it off. She wiped her head, and walked back inside, shutting the door behind her. The twinkle in the sky shone more, and turned red, then fading out of the darkness. A clear night sky, empty once again, and Desy, couldn’t wait for the next day to come.

***

The next day, and it’s a beautiful one at that. It’s nice and warm without a glimpse of Georgia's brutal humidity, and with the sun shining twice as bright, the closer to the end of eighth grade couldn’t shine closer for Desy. On her way to her final class, but currently on a break that lasts fifteen minutes, she chose to relax near the steps of a hallway to look out the window. Seeing the glory of a new day, especially what happened last night had Desy in such a good mood. Today has gone by smoothly and without a sign of Sindy and her goons. Never would the average girl think a day like this would ever happen. Usually by now, something would happen to her, but today happened to be great, so far. Feeling complex about the school day's end, she killed off her smile, and began to think of other thoughts besides ones that’ll end her good day in typical tragedy.

She let out a soft moan, and held her books closer to her chest, thinking of the boy who confessed to her.

“Andre, you idiot,” she muttered, letting out a soft giggle.

As she watched the fluffy marshmallows in the sky sweep to the edge, Suzan came from out of nowhere, grabbing Desy’s butt. She yelped and quickly turned to her sexual assaulter.

“Su-su-Suzy!”

Suzan laughed and wrapped her arm around Desy’s small shoulders.

“My lil adorable buddy, how ya doing?! What’s gotten you in a good mood again, ey?”

Desy put her hand on her chest, letting out a huge breath.

“Darn it, Suzy. Why do you always have to spook me like that? And why did you grab my butt?!”

Suzan forced her to walk with her, dragging her away from the beautiful view.

“H-Hey! I was watching the sky!”

Suzan rubbed her head, and again, smacked her butt.

“My little Desy, you’ve got much to learn. Now then, let me ask you something.”

“And you won’t even answer as to why you touched me—”

Suzan held her closer, more towards her cheek.

“What’s gotten you so damn happy, hah?”

Desy smiled, and decided to not fight her friendly nature. She rejoiced in it, wrapping her arm around Suzan’s shoulders.

“Mm, nothing really.”

“Oh oh oh, ey no nothing really, you adorable lil white girl.”

“I’m not—”

“Come on, tell me why you so happy?!”

“Sq-Squeezing me to death…”

“Oh, my bad.”

Suzan eased off, but still held her as they got closer to Suzan’s last class.

Desy turned red, and took a quick breath before revealing what’s gotten her in a shining mood.

“An-And—”

“Yoou hoo! Suzan girl.” someone shouted.

Suzan smacked her lips and looked over her shoulder.

“What?! Oh shit, Latrisha! What’s up girl!”

Desy paused but felt more relieved, letting out a huge sigh. Suzan let go and stepped forward, but quickly hugged Desy.

“I’ll catch up with you later, aight?! Bye bye lil Desy.”

Suzan waved and ran to her friend. Desy watched as her close friend walked beside her and disappeared around the corner. Desy weakly waved and closed her hand, turning round to start her way to her final class. She’s not looking forward to it since she overheard a classmate who happened to be a part of final class, which was art, saying that another class will be sharing the same room since there was maintenance being done to theirs. What got her in such a dreary worry happened to be Sindy. She happened to be in the class that’s going to be worked on. Finding that out had her in a small silent panic, but with the day going by so smoothly and amazingly, especially without her being in sight today; she’s hoping for the best and prayad that she called out.

Arriving at art class, she walked through the open door, and quickly glanced around. She saw half her class in attendance and a small minority of the other class also present. Not seeing her in sight had her hopes up even higher. Bringing out a small grin, she went to her seat, sat down, and placed her books on the table. Collapsing her hands together and resting them on the black smooth table; she waited for class to begin. Meanwhile, she began to day dream possibilities of what will happen next between her and Andre. Yes he did confess, but that didn’t mean that they’re a couple yet, or so she’s beginning to question. With them almost edging towards intimacy, she raised these new concerns and thought if they were a couple.

Darn it. What are we?! Oh, what to do, what to do, what to think, actually! she thought.

She closed her eyes, and quickly concluded the situation.

“It was just the heat of the moment… Slow down, Desy.” she muttered.

Rethinking of that scenario had her quickly bury her head in embarrassment. She crossed her arms, and slammed her head in her arms.

“Why did I say those things… What's happening to me.” she murmured.

Oh man… puberty sure is troublesome. Desy thought.

While the rest of class and the other class were beginning to walk in before the bell rang, Desy had a sense of danger punch her in the stomach. A strange feeling of butterflies, and an odd shaking on one leg made her bring her head up. Slowly, seeing the light of the classroom dim out from her vision, coming right through the door, taking a pause at the entrance, she saw the curvy figure that haunts her nightmares. The pigtails that misrepresent innocence and the smile that indicates villainy, Sindy had arrived, and she had a glint in her eyes. Desy’s heart stopped, and she went white as she stared into the eyes of danger. Sindy’s eyes gleamed of hatred, and temptation.

She took a glance at the clock, and gave Desy a vile grin once her eyes were back on her. Sindy stuck her hip out, walking her way to her as she waved in the fakest friendly manner she could. Desy’s eyes remained straight as Sindy walked past her, allowing her to smell her anger and femininity. Sindy wanted to make sure who’s still the prettiest and most popular as the boys drooled and sniffed her trail. Once she was seated behind a couple of tables, Sindy banged her bookbag on it, letting Desy know of the eyes of fate watching her from behind. Desy’s breathing grew rapid, and she clutched her chest. Knowing that her punishment was awaiting her after class had her in a panic. Some students wondered what got her spooked, some even thought she might pass out, but Desy quickly controlled her breathing. She calmed down, and tried to remain focused.

“Just when I thought everything would go smoothly.” she said.

The last of the students had walked, barged, rushed in and the teacher, Ms. Gwen had finally arrived. She closed the door, and greeted the entire class with her grand middle aged smile. Yet out of all her students, Desy was her favourite. Scanning the class, and seeing Desy with a still face had Ms. Gwen worried.

“Hello class, welcome to advance art 101. Today as you may notice, behind the rest of you, class B from social studies are our guests.”

She pointed at them, and most of them raised their hands, except Sindy who’s eyes were locked onto Desy’s back.

“I see most of you are present, that’s good. Well, I won’t disturb you all too much since Mr. Patterson has handed you some packets while he helps with his class renovation. Meanwhile, my students, today’s lesson, is the body.”

Desy swalloed and tried to muster a grin, but couldn’t when she could feel Sindy trying to swallow her with her gaze. That shadow demon of hers, she can feel it trying to grab her feet, reel her out of her seat to drag Desy to Sindy so she could devour her. The first thought that came to mind is, what’s the main reason for the glare: Could it be her mother ratting to hers about bullying Desy yesterday? Perhaps standing up to her? Or a combination of not just both, but a reason to release all her frustrations towards her as of recently. Desy can’t comprehend what punishment awaits her, and it almost had her slip a tear. But something else came into her scared mind, and that was the rage, the redness that gave her courage, a spine to stand up to her.

Scenarios of beating her up, humiliating her stormed in, and it dried out her eyes. Seeing Sindy begging for forgiveness, and mercy, had Desy bring out a grin. She quickly shook it off, and clutched her head, trying to erase such dark thoughts.

Why am I thinking of this? It-it’s not me… yet I enjoy imagining it, I wonder why. Desy thought.

Her hearing grew muffled, and the glaring light of red came from the corner of her eyes. Seeing the table turn from black, having splatters of red brought another imagination, one that envisioned Sindy, dead. Seeing her dead body lying on cold blackened concrete, rain drizzling on her cold body, she brought her hands up, and saw her warmth, steaming off them. She giggled, and rejoiced in defeating her enemy. The muffles were being drowned by a barrage of voices, but one clear voice made itself be heard, and it sounded just like her’s, if she were older…

The mind imagines thoughts like these when someone’s pushed too far. Talking it out, negotiation, not acting with feelings: these are actions done by people who have patience and aren't pushed to the edge—yet when you’re someone in the state we’ve faced… then all that gets tossed out the window. With reality kicking you in the face to remind you of how average you are, your enemies possibly living better than you, and when the time comes for them to realise the repercussions of their past; for someone like us… it’s too late. Action will take over with feelings being the driving course into a route of satisfaction, and darkness.

Desy clenched a fist, and her vision was starting to clear out.

No… I’m-I’m not like this…

Not yet, Desy. But soon, it’ll drive you into becoming someone better, and someone, who will overcome her enemies, and get what’s rightfully—yours!

Shut up… shut up…

You can’t make me because… Desy!

She felt her heart pick up its pace, and with the voices of torment mocking, picking, spitting facts at her had her growling beneath her breath.

In the end, I’m your subconscious, and you will soon… break!

“Shut up!” Desy shouted.

She’s frantically breathing, her eyebrows knit, the look on her face told the surrounding classroom that she appeared crazy. Her teacher’s hand was inches from touching her, and she seemed shocked. Desy, once she got to her senses, and eased her frantic breathing, she glanced around, and saw all eyes were on her. Once reality hit, and seeing the terrified yet disappointed look on her art teacher’s face, Desy’s eyes widened as she gasped.

“Ms… Ms. Gwen… I-I didn’t mean to—”

“Oh wow, she really is insane, isn’t she, everyone?” Sindy exclaimed.

Every student began to mutter, murmur things and in agreement to Sindy’s claim. Hearing her wretched condescending voice turned Desy’s stomach, and had her clench her teeth.

“Never in my imagination would my favourite student yell for me to shut up.” Ms. Gwen disappointgly said.

She backed up, and sighed.

“I only asked if you were okay, Desy. But, whatever’s going on in your personal life, you didn’t have to take it out on me.”

Hearing her disappointed tone, and her eyes beginning to glisten, Desy felt horrible. She halfway got up from her seat, and placed her hand on her chest.

“Please, Ms. Gwen, I swear I-I didn’t mean to shout at you.”

“Sure, with a tone like that, and trying to muster your villainy, it’s not like you're hiding your real intentions.” Sindy said.

Students began to gossip more, fueling Sindy’s ego and statements. Seeing that she rarely spoke or gave a glance to anyone, they were believing whatever she had to say about Desy. This angered her, and brought her close to bringing back the anger that dwelled. Ms. Gwen didn’t agree, but she was still in shock from Desy’s yell. To her ears, and seeing the expression on her face explode out of her clutch, it was nightmare fueled.

“No… st-stop.” Desy murmured.

“Look, she’s about to go crazy again!” One student shouted.

Another student shot up from their desk, and pointed.

“She might genuinely explode again, watch it!”

Others tried to defend her, and got in the way.

“Stop guys, she’s probably going through a lot.” A female student said.

A male student backed her up, and nodded.

“Yeah, quit it people, we all go through shit.”

The class began to rile up, and thus starting a division and Sindy was enjoying all of it.

“If you knew the girl like I did, then you’d know she’s crazy ass fuck! And also, all you guys, she also gives hammies in the back of the building!” Sindy shouted.

“Stop…” Desy mumbled.

“To think that she’s not only a looney, but a slut too?! Wow, Desy, some innocent quiet girl you are.” Sindy said.

Sindy’s sarcastic tone, the mixture of laughter and others voice interwinding had her world spinning one eighty. Everything began to muffle out again, her heart beat faster than ever, and her skin felt sweaty. Her eyes began to bag, and with hers starting to shake, Desy was close to breaking until she heard Andre’s voice. It crept its way in, drowning out all the cornucopia of noises to ease her subconscious.

He whispered, “stop being a damsel in distress, fight, fight back.”

Even Suzan’s voice echoed in, reminding her to, “give that bitch the voice of reason to stop her bullying!”

Courage, bravery are two things that have never presented itself to Desy. Yet with yesterday’s event being a glimpse of what she was building to the foundation of her new future. A future in which she overcomes her demons and obstacles. Feeling that courage course through her viens, Desy slammed her hands on the table, and quickly turned her head to Sindy. She gave a glare, and slowly opened her mouth and shouted…

“I have had enough of your shit, Sindy!” Desy shouted.

The class got quiet, but not before letting out gasps, ooo’s, and some students nodded in approval. Sindy on the other hand grew a glint, and stood out of her seat.

“What did you just say, little bitch?” she replied.

Desy ground her teeth, and turned her whole body to her.

“I’ve had enough of your bullying, your disgusting, horrid attitude! Your existence is a burden to my world, and so long as you’re present—!”

Desy stepped in the middle of the classroom, fists clenched.

“—I will never progress as a person. So today, I stand up to my bully, and vow to beat your ass!”

The edge of Sindy’s lips curled, and a wrinkle formed between her eyes. With repulsion written on her face, she also stepped to the middle, and the two had a Mexican standoff. Sindy crossed her arms, and smacked her lips as Desy clenched another fist.

“That so? Then you and I will have a fight after school, Friday.”

She stepped forward, and gave Desy a sassy side eye.

“I can’t wait to put you down, like the ugly dog you are.”

Desy growled, and she also stepped forward.

“And I won’t allow you to beat me into a pulp! No more, I’ve had enough… Sindy, go screw yourself, Witch!”

Sindy’s grin grew vile and she began to laugh.

“We’ll see about that, you stupid dumb girl!”

Ms. Gwen didn’t know what to do in this situation. She stood in shock, and felt conflicted about the situation. She’s actually glad that Desy’s standing up for herself while the other half had to intervene and stop this from becoming any uglier. Desy on the other hand felt more determined than ever, and with the boy of her dreams' confession scene stuck in the back of her mind, she felt undefeated.

Taking one more step, Desy rose her fist, and knit her brows.

“See you Friday, Sindy…”

The class recorded the whole thing, printing the scene into their young minds. With Sindy looking just as confident as usual, she wasn’t concerned. Desy felt ready, and seeing that this was a first testament to her path of freedom and to conquer her enemies, she had to do this. Otherwise, she’ll never evolve as a person. With the future bright and her first test of courage standing before her, Desy locked eyes with the monster in her dreams, and with Andre’s support, she can’t wait till Friday comes around. The school bell rang, bringing the day to an end, thus beginning the journey of the average girl known as Desy, a girl who won’t stop at nothing to not only bring herself and her mother out of poverty, but to finally beat Sindy, and someday, marry the boy of her dreams, Andre.