Parallel Truth

CHAPTER 2

“I'm telling you Ottilie! That man is no good for you!" I could feel the frustration and worry on Cassian's tone. I want to talk but I'm scared I might offend him with my decision.

"Cassian, I appreciate your concern but..." I paused and tried to avoid eye contact. He's waiting for what I'm going to say. Giving me the don't-leave-me-hanging look.

"No..." I softly whispered. His previously arc eyebrow suddenly rested. Disappointed expression is evident in his face. It hurts me to do this to him. He is the only brother who sticked up with me when we had nothing. We faced numerous stomach growls when we were a child. He used to go to the street and beg for money to buy me food, completely disregarding his self.

"I hope you don't end up regretting the decision you made Ottilie. I will respect whatever is your decision and I am always here to support you. But if I find out he is hurting you, please forgive me on what I am gonna do to that scumbag" he said seriously. I deliberately nodded many times and hugged him. He hugged me back tightly. He really is my big brother.

"I need to go to school Cassian. I'll tell Rod what happened to me. I know he is still going to accept me. He is my only one true love at the end of the day." I confidently said and waved goodbye.

While I'm heading to school, I saw someone waving at me not far from where I am currently standing. After the incident last night, my vision never got back to its original state. The man approached me. That's when I realized its Lucian.

"U-umm, hello Ottilie. Flowers for you" he said shyly and deliberately handed me rose. I looked at his eyes seriously but he avoided my gaze. I accepted the rose. I could feel his hands shaking as sweat ran down his face. He was about to be happy when but I threw the rose at the highway. He was shocked and immediately apologized.

"I-im sorry if I made you upset. I'll make sure not to piss you out next time." he said, stuttering. I felt guilty but I didn't dare show it to him. This is the only way I could make him stop.

"Lucian, it's been 3 years. Give up already, I love Rod. I love your best friend, not you and it will never be you!" I shouted meanly at him. He was startled then bowed his head. I held my breath as I saw tears escapes his eyes.

Oh Please Ottilie! , brace yourself.

He wiped the tears off his cheek and rised his head to face me. Even though there is undeniable sadness in his eyes he still managed to give me a sweet smile. I've been doing this to him since the first 2 years. I want him to stop loving me. It already caused him his friendship with Rod.

"I'll come back tomorrow Ottilie. See yah!" he did his best not to make his voice crack and talk in joyful tone. He waved and ran towards the campus infront of us. I could do nothing but sigh and shake my shoulders.

I followed him and also entered the campus to look for my boyfriend. I already know where his favorite spot is. I did not hesitate to go to the gym directly. I know he is there like he always is. I entered the campus gym and greeted my boyfriend with a smile.

He was shocked to see me but kissed me anyway. I looked at him seriously and softly dragged him at the bathroom. I need to tell him.

"Love, I have something to tell you. I hope you don't freak out. " I said in nervous tone. I lost count of how many times I swallowed my saliva due to nervousness. Whatever happens, I need to tell him!

"What? What is it? Are you okay?" he seems to sense my doubt that caused him to raise concern. I did not have the guts to answer. He raised his hand and slowly held my arms. Trying to comfort me.

"I, I—I m-mean last night something terrible really happened...."