The Perks of Being Heartless

Chapter Six

Chapter 6

Saturday: August 27, 2017

I woke up early in the morning to fix my things, and also to prepare for our trip. I really didn’t want to come but Letti convinced me. I can’t say no to her. She may be a pain in the ass, but I am already attached to her.

“Why are you up this early?” I saw my mom going down the stairs while blinking her eyes in a fast manner. I was in the kitchen, cooking our breakfast.

“Didn’t I tell you about this last night?” I replied. I turned my gaze on the food that I am cooking. I wasn’t really sure if I opened this up to her last night.

“Oh no, Honey. You didn’t,” I heard her footsteps getting closer to me. “As soon as you got home, you went upstairs and... you slept. You didn’t even noticed me cooking in the kitchen.”

I heaved a sigh, knowing that I was drunk yesterday when I came home. I looked at her, sincerely. “Did I? Gosh! I’m so sorry. We went to a bar to celebrate our victory and… we had kind of drank a little and that’s how I ended up falling asleep early last night,” I said while smiling worriedly. I don’t know how my mom would react since I have never tried drinking alcohol.

She stared at me blankly for almost a minute. I was already expecting her to be upset.

“That’s great! It’s good to see you having fun,” she smiled at me. “Besides, you’re already at the right age to do those kinds of things," she added and walked straight towards me. She hugged me and kissed me on my cheeks. She had a good sleep, hadn’t she?

I wasn’t actually expecting her to say these things. I thought she will scold me for drinking alcohol, but it turns out that it was just an assumption.

“Look at these hotdogs. They’re already burnt,” I was startled when mom said that. Oh my god! I forgot that I was cooking.

I hurriedly turned off the stove and transferred those burned hotdogs in a plate. “It’s still edible, right?” I muttered.

My mom decided to go back to her room because it’s too early to wake up. I don’t know if she will go back to sleep or she’s just going back upstairs. She likes to stay in her room ever since dad left us. It’s like her comfort zone. I hear her cry a lot during night time. It was very painful to hear. I tend to plug my earpiece and play random rock songs when I hear her cry. It helps me ease the pain.

I prepared the plates, placed the food in the middle of the table, and sat down in a chair to eat those burned hotdogs. I was lucky to have left-overs from the food that they had last night. It was fried chickens. I didn’t bother recooking it since I might burn it as well.

I didn’t take much time in eating since I don’t know if I am late or what. “When are we going to venture? Where are we going to meet up?” I silently asked myself while going back to my room.

I ran towards my phone as fast as I can when I entered my room only to find out that I missed a lot of calls from Russell. I reckoned that it isn’t too early for him to call, I thought to myself.

Since I was curious on why he called me all of a sudden, I tried to call him back. It might as well ask updates regarding our trip for our vacation.

The phone rang for a few seconds and he finally answered it. “Hello? Why did you call this early? ” I asked him as soon as he answered the call.

“Isn’t it supposed to be me who’s asking that question?” His voice was dull. I can’t even understand what he was trying to say.

“What? Weren’t you the one who kept on calling me?” I asked him again.

“Oh, right,” I heard other noises from the other line. Is he outside? “You’re pretty late for our meet up,” he said.

“Wait, what?! We haven’t talked about it yet,” I was confused with his words. As far as I know, we haven’t talked about this, and that is crystal clear to me.

“Alex, we did. Remember when I drove you home last night? I tried so hard to convince you and, in return, you said yes.”

Wait what?! I said yes to what? Am I that drunk last night to not even remember a single thing?

“Wait, hold on. What did you say?” I asked him out of confusion.

“You said yes to me when I asked you couple of times to come with us to Baguio.”

My eyes widened when I heard his words. So, it wasn’t Letti. Now I can confirm that I was really that drunk last night. “Oh my God! I thought it was Letti.” I let out a heavy sigh. Because all these time, I thought it was Letti. Now that I messed up while I’m drunk, what would’ve happened to me if someone took advantage of that? I’ll never take alcohol again. I swear.

“I, uh… am actually waiting for you outside of your house,” said Russell. What the hell?! I started running towards my window and peeked a little outside the curtain. I saw Russell standing beside his car with his phone in his ear. He is wearing a white V-neck shirt with a dark blue coat above it, a denim pants, and a plain white pair of shoes.

Oh my god! What do I do? I haven’t taken a bath yet. What will I do? Come on! Think!

I started to run downstairs to the bathroom. I took a bath as fast as I could then I went back to my room. It’s embarrassing that I’ll go out and meet him without grooming myself. What would he say if I don’t have any makeup on my face?

After several minutes of preparation, I picked up my phone and found out that he was still on the line. “Shit,” I muttered.

“Hello? Alex? Are you still there?” I peeked out on the window again and he’s still waiting patiently for me. I wore the best outfit that I had in my closet. Fortunately, I had fixed my things earlier, before I started cooking.

“Yes just wait for a minute okay? I’ll be downstairs,” I said and ended the call.

I went to my mom’s room and bid goodbye. I also went to Michelle’s room. I kissed her on her forehead and I started running back to my room.

“Wait, why are you in a hurry?” My mom asked me while she was in front of my door.

“Someone’s waiting for me outside. I wasn’t expecting it so I got to be quick,” I bluntly replied.

“Is that so?” A huge grin made its way on my mom’s face.

“Wait, what did I just say?” I asked her again but she did not even bother to answer my question. Instead, she turned back and walked downstairs. “It’s not what you’re thinking!” I shouted.

I carried my bag and started running like the Flash. When I got outside of the house, I saw my mom talking to Russell. He was smiling and he looks comfortable while talking to my mom. What’s with their conversation?

I walked towards them with confidence, enough for them to notice me. Russell looked at me as if she saw a ghost. “What?” I said sheepishly.

“Oh, here she is. Have a safe trip!” My mom bid goodbye to Russell, and then she turned. She started walking towards me and stopped when she was on my side. “He’s got the looks,” she said with a wink. She continued walking afterwards. Seriously? What is wrong with my mother today?

“Oh shut it mom. We need to go. I’ll see you soon! I love you and take good care of Michelle,” I also bid my farewell as my mom went inside the house. I waved at her before she entered inside.

I started walking towards Russell. “I wasn’t expecting you to look so good today. I thought you don’t want to come with us? You suddenly changed your decision, huh?” he said sarcastically.

“Whatever Mr. Hopeless Romantic. We need to go. They are surely waiting for us by now.” I entered his car as soon as I finished my sentence. He followed shortly. I really don’t know where our meeting place will be but I hope to see them soon.

"Let's go?" I asked Russell who is now staring at me.

"Why are you looking at me like that?" I asked with annoyance.

"You look so pretty in what you're wearing," he replied and winked at me.

Shit! Why is he doing that? It's too early to make me flattered.

"Haha! You’re blushing!" he pinched my cheeks.

"Aw! It hurts!" I said with pouted lips.

"Let's go. Maybe they're waiting for us at the airport," he puts his arm around my shoulders.

I'm comfortable whenever I'm with Russell. I don’t know why. It may be because of our closeness and I think I know him enough.

"Hey! Are you okay?" Russell asked when he started the engine and drove the car.

"Yes, I'm okay. Why?" he simply shook his head as an answer. Afterwards, Russell drove silently and I was just looking outside the car. I’m just thinking what's in Baguio, and why did they wanted to go there for a vacation? The ‘romantic vibes’ for the two couple isn’t a good enough reason. Besides, the place isn’t suitable for me especially the idea of having a ‘romantic time’ during the whole vacation.

"Are you thinking of something?" Russell asked me so I looked towards his direction while he’s maneuvering his car.

"Uhmm… what's in Baguio that makes it so romantic?" I suddenly asked him because I want to hear his side about the place. It seems as though, if ever my mom will go for a vacation there, for sure she would only miss dad.

"Hey! Ms. Bitter, are you listening?" my senses came back when Russell’s tone raised for a question.

"I'm sorry. Uhmm...” I shook my head and looked down to my hands.

"Are you out of your mind?" I just give him a gaze.

"Why you are such a hopeless romantic?" Did I ask that question? Did it just come out of my mouth? Uh-oh! He only gave me a blank stare. I didn’t know why I asked that stupid question. You're out of your mind Alex. Very bad move!

I sighed looking outside the car's tinted window thinking of what we’ll be doing in Baguio. After a few minutes, we arrived at the airport. Russell parked his car. He turned off the engine before getting out of the car. He opened the door for me.

"What about your car? Will you just leave it here?" I asked him, pointing his car.

"Someone will get this car, don't worry about it being lost," he retorted and we walked inside the huge airport.

I slowly opened my eyes trying to clear my view to check out where I am. I realized I'm in the plane seat. My gaze stayed with Kid and Letti who's getting up their seat.

"Good morning," Russell greeted everyone. He’s sitting beside me.

"Hell morning!" I countered while fixing myself. We took our baggage and got off the airplane.

"Welcome to Baguio City, Ma'am and Sir," the stewardess greets us with a welcoming smile.

I just nodded my head and looked at the two couple who’s all sweet and cheesy. Russell's on a phone call.

As we get out at the terminal-3, we went to the restroom. After that, we left the airport.

"Guys, which hotel are we going to stay at?" I asked Russell and everyone stopped to think for a second.

“Why not try Paladin Hotel?” Letti suggested and the two boys agreed. I kept silent as a response. Not knowing the place, I roamed my eyes in the scenery of Baguio. What a nice place!

"Are you feeling cold?" Russell asked me.

"Not really. You?" I answered.

"Yieee! It looks like the two are getting sweeter. Hahaha!" Letti said while holding Kid’s hand.

"Alex, it looks like your vacation here in Baguio will never leave you bored," Kid teased, and Russell just laughed.

We rode a bus going to Paladin Hotel. I was sitting beside Russell and in front of us was the couple sat quietly.

I looked at Russell whose eyes were on me "What?" I frowned.

"Nothing," he replied, looking away.

"Why do you have those tempting lips?"

"Whose lips?" I'm a bit shocked with Russell’s serious question.

Did I say that out loud? I was having that thought in my mind! Stupid Alex! So embarrassing.

"Huh? What? Did I say something?" I acted innocently, removing my gaze on him.

"I'm not deaf, Alex. Just tell me. Who is it?" his brows furrowed and he's leaning his face closer to mine.

Shit! Why is he getting closer? Was he not informed that the seats we’re sitting in aren’t big enough and there is no space between us? And now he's like this?

"Who have tempting lips?" he asked while his face is getting closer.

"R-Russell!" I irked, pushing him away from me. He's strong so what I did was useless. He's even getting nearer.

"Russell what the heck? Stop wha–" he cut my words with his question.

"So tell me. Who?"

I held my breath. His face was two inches away from me.

"Driver, stop here!" Kid said. The bus driver took a sudden halt. I was horrified, because I fell out of my seat with Russell who fell too. He's now on top of me. I can't breathe. My cheeks start to feel hot.

"Do you have plans of getting up? Or maybe you're going to–" I didn't hear the last words because Kid placed his hand over Letti's mouth to stop her.

Russell recovered from what happened. He stood up, moved away from me, and offers his hand to pull me up. I gulped. Our face was too close I could feel his masculine breath. I pushed him away afraid he might see my red blushing face.

"Wait a moment Mr. Driver. We're herem" Russell said and he helped me step out of the bus.

Before us is a beautiful hotel. Could it be the Paladin Hotel they were talking about? Hmm, if it is, then they're right about it. I looked around. The designs are perfect to catch people's attention.

Kid and Letti walked in. Russell and I followed them. I was amazed when I saw the interior of the hotel. The designs are very beautiful. There were paintings that depicted Baguio City and flowers that can only be found in Baguio City. Mom and Michelle would like it here. The floor looked like a mirror. It’s so clean and shiny.

We went to the counter to check in.

"Good morning, Ma’am, Sir. Welcome to the Paladin Hotel," a lady clerk greeted us with her bright smile that we could not help ourselves but smile back at her.

"Four bedrooms for us," Letti told the teller and then the teller scanned her records. Her expression spoke of something. I couldn't tell what.

"Hmm, Im sorry ma'am but we only have two available bedrooms." My eyes went bigger and my jaw dropped. I was truly horrified. Oh no! It would likely be Russell and I who would be sharing a room with.

"What? Only two bed rooms?" I asked again. My face looked really horrified that they can’t do anything but look at me helplessly.

"We don't have any choice, Alex. If we’re not going to take this, then where are we going next?" Letti asked me. I stared at Kid who gave me a ‘can’t-do-anything’ look so I looked at Russell for help.

"Okay fine! But Letti and I will be in one room, and Kid and Russell will share the other room." I told them, trying to sound firm. I saw Letti made face at me and made her eyes pop.

"But Alex, I want to be in the same room with my babe. I can't sleep away from him," Letti said, trying to act all cute. My whole world fell down on me when she said these words.

"Letti! Are you okay?" I asked like I'm on the hot seat. I felt like my blood is boiling inside. Letti linked her arm with Kid’s elbow.

"Okay, Alex. Kid and I will be in the same room, while you and Russell will stay in the other room. That’ll fix it all," she said straight away and gives me a meaningful smile. I guess it really can’t be helped.

"Well get the two vacant rooms," Letti said and got the keys. She gave one to us for our room and they walk towards their room.

"So, let's go?" Russell said while holding our things. Yes our things. He brought my bags towards our room. After a few minutes we were in the front of the hell room.

"Are you okay?" he asked. I stared at him, and gosh! It’s my first time to be alone with a guy in one room! I don't know what to think or how I should act!

"Hey, Alex!" I blinked when he snapped his fingers in front of me.

"What?" I asked, annoyed. I don't feel distrust towards him because Russell and I are like close friends but it still feels awkward for me.

I opened the door and a wonderful room welcomed us. We entered the room. I felt comfortable in this room, but when I saw one bed sheet, I almost collapsed on the floor. One bed sheet?! For the two of us?

"So, this is it. There is only one bed, and it would be ungentlemanly of you if you take the bed and I sleep on the couch, right? That settles it. Thank you, Russell!" I said feigning bravery.

"Okay. I'll take the couch," he said without second thoughts. He was so near me and I felt my cheeks heated up. Out of nowhere, his right hand touched my cheeks. He was saying something but I quickly turned away.

"Shut up!" I gasped and step out of the room to breathe freely.

I don't care what the hell he’s saying, but it was something that got into my head, disturbingly. His red lips… so enticing. I touched my lips softly and bit it. How would it feel if Russell kisses my lips? Wait! What am I thinking? Is this me? Alex? I think I’m being possessed again. Gosh! How can this be?

"Alex! What are you doing there? Are you not tired from the travel? Oh, by the way. Tonight, the Paladin Hotel will be playing some romantic music all over the Hotel," Letti said, wearing a meaningful smile.

"Why are you telling me that? Do you want me to have romance all by myself?" I said in a flat tone. Here's the couple again. Why do I keep on witnessing their sweetness? The hell I care about the two of them.

"Nothing Alex," she said and walked away together with Kid.

I decided to go back to my room. Oh! Scratch that… to ‘our’ room, and take some rest. Letti is right I am tired from our ride going to Baguio. After a couple of minutes, I arrived in the room and when I opened the door, I saw my things beside the bed just as Russell’s. I looked around to search for Russell, but there were no signs of him. Not even his shadow. I closed the door.

I silently walked towards the bed but I felt like something or someone is staring at me from behind.

"Alex?" I slowly looked back and I saw Russell topless. My tongue is pulled involuntarily and my eyes kept on gazing.

"Uhhhmmm…" I looked away when I noticed him following what my abnormal body is doing.

"Russell! Wear your damn clothes! Hello! I'm here!" I said while I am looking somewhere else.

"I thought you were walking outside," I heard him laughing silently.

"Stop it Russell!" I warned him in a serious tone.

"Okay, Ms. Bitter can you turn around and close your eyes before you stare at my body again," he said suppressing his chuckle. My face got even hotter than earlier and my nose felt like it was on fire. I threw a pillow towards his direction and it hit him straight in the face!

"Dream on!" I shouted at him. He just gave me a wild laugh. Ugh!

"Admit it, Ms.bitter. I am too hot for you to handle," he said while walking towards me. I stepped backwards.

"No, you are not!" I said strongly.

"Then let me ask you this. Whose lips were you talking about earlier, on the bus?" What the! Why can’t he move on from that?!

"No one," I said full of doubt. I looked away because I cannot look into his eyes right now. I am now stuck against the wall and I can't move further. He locked me with his strong arms and I felt him looking straight at me.

"Why can't you look at me?" Damn! What is he doing? I accidentally moved and that movement caused me to look straight into his eyes.