“I can't guarantee anything.”
I commented, still with the same sincere smile on my face.
“But thanks for your help anyway.”
Sid nodded briefly, turned and walked out the door without saying another word.
***
“And that's exactly what happened.”
I commented, almost laughing at Astrid's expression of total disbelief. It was a rare phenomenon to see, almost like an eclipse, and I only regretted not having my cell phone at hand to record the moment.
[Astrid's POV]
It was really hard to believe what Roccia had said. How could Sid, who barely exchanged half a dozen words with anyone, not only decide to talk to her, but also, of his own free will, want to help her? That somehow didn't seem to make any sense.
“Let me get this straight.”
I began, frowning.
“Are you trying to tell me that Sid himself, who barely talks to anyone, said those words to you? Word for word?”
I asked, still suspicious, trying to confirm if what Roccia had just said was really true or if perhaps I was just hearing things.
“Stop beating around the bush, Astrid! I told you he said those words.”
Roccia replied, crossing her arms with an expression of slight impatience.
“Now, let's get down to business! I've even brought my sleeping things here, so I can practice all night without any interruptions.”
Roccia commented, without paying much attention to my surprise, as if it was all the most natural thing in the world.
I sighed, a little annoyed by Roccia's lack of politeness, but decided to let it go. She was so excited, and I didn't want to spoil the moment. So, I went into the kitchen to help her make the chocolate, trying to focus on what really mattered at the moment.
“Come on, you little bookworm.”
I commented, receiving a disapproving look from Roccia, who, being one of the lowest in the school, didn't like this kind of nickname very much.
“You know I don't like that nickname, right?”
Roccia asked in a slightly irritated tone, but without losing her temper. After all, she knew I wasn't doing it out of spite.
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I laughed quietly, but I knew that no matter how much she complained, I would never stop calling her that.
“I know, but it's very amusing to see your cute expression of irritation.”
I commented, noticing Roccia's expression change. It was as if the look in her eyes clearly said: You're no good anymore.
Just as Roccia was about to respond to my comment, a notification sound interrupted the moment. Our gaze automatically went to her cell phone, which was next to mine. She picked it up quickly, looking at the screen with an expression that mixed curiosity and surprise.
Curious about the girl's reaction, I decided to ask.
“What's wrong? Did something happen?”
Still with an expression of surprise on her face, Roccia looked away from the cell phone screen and towards me.
“It's a message from my mother.”
Roccia replied, as she turned the phone towards me, allowing me to read the message on the screen.
Message on the screen:
“Daughter, you won't believe it! Your sister Suzana is bringing her boyfriend so we can meet him. Too bad you had to go to your friend's house today. Maybe next time!”
After reading the message on Roccia's cell phone screen, I decided to make a playful comment to take the look of confusion off her face.
“What a shame, looks like you missed the chance to meet your sister's boyfriend.”
I ended up letting out that comment with a slight laugh, watching Roccia's reaction. She had a confused look on her face, which drew my attention even more.
“What's wrong? Is something bothering you?”
I asked softly, noticing that Roccia's expression was still a little distant.
“There's something very strange about all this.”
Roccia commented, in a low, thoughtful tone.
“When I came here, I told Suzana I was going to sleep here... so why didn't she tell me beforehand that she was taking her boyfriend so our family could meet him?”
I realized that this question was really making Roccia a little uneasy. Trying to calm her down, I decided to say something to ease the situation.
“Hey, maybe she just forgot to tell you, or maybe she thought you'd be busy with something more important... You don't have to worry so much, okay?”
I smiled slightly, trying to take the weight off the situation and give Roccia a simpler reason for what seemed to be just a small forgetfulness.
As soon as she heard what I said, Roccia just let out a sigh, but didn't say anything back.
“Hey, cheer up! You'll get to meet Suzana's boyfriend another day. The most important thing now is for you to learn how to make chocolate to give to Brent tomorrow.”
I smiled, trying to lift her spirits. I knew Roccia was a bit shy when it came to this sort of thing, but getting her to focus on something more practical might help distract her.
“It'll be a great opportunity for you to show that you have talent, and maybe even impress him with what you've done.”
I added, jokingly, hoping to get at least a smile out of her.
Roccia still looked thoughtful, her distant expression not completely gone, but when she heard my suggestion, she finally gave a slight smile, albeit a shy one. Her attitude was beginning to change, and I could see the distraction starting to work.
“You're right, you're right...”
Roccia murmured, still trying to convince herself.
“I just need to focus on what matters now.”
I smiled, pleased to see a little animation returning to her face.
“That's right! Let's put Suzana and her boyfriend aside for a moment. Now it's your turn to shine, Roccia. The chocolate will be incredible, and Brent will be impressed by your talent, I'm sure.”
Roccia gave a low laugh, her countenance now lighter and more relaxed.
“I'll try not to disappoint.”
Roccia replied, more confidently, as she concentrated on the ingredients.
I watched her with a smile. I was happy to see her a little calmer. Roccia always had this reserved way about her, but when she was doing what she loved, she completely transformed.