Between us, quietly

CHAPTER 5

Lyiana’s POV

I walked out of class, through the hallway, and toward my favourite spot: the school’s dome-shaped rose garden.

I sat on the long bench and put on my headphones. See You Again by Tyler, the Creator filled my ears.

I don't know what it is about this song, but it has such a soothing effect on me. It's one of my favourite songs.

I lay back on the bench, my legs in the air.

It was Mira's birthday in a few weeks, so I decided to draw a sketch of us together and frame it for her. I could already imagine how happy she'd be.

Of course, I was going to get her other things too, but I wanted to do this for her. She knew I could draw, but she'd never seen any of my drawings. I didn't feel comfortable letting people see them.

The sketch was a pencil drawing of the two of us in my lake house at night, just laughing and looking at something she'd said.

It was a really precious memory to me.

I was so immersed in my drawing that I didn't notice someone was there.

Only when I felt an intense stare did I look up.

And then I saw him.

Darrell Ashbourne.

He stood there, staring intently at me.

At first, I was shocked. Then confused. And finally, annoyed.

Not only had he interrupted my quiet time, but he was standing there staring at me like some creep.

I stood up, grabbed my phone and sketchbook, and walked away.

Who knew he was such a p*****t? Doesn't he have a girlfriend? Eww.

I had almost forgotten about the encounter when I realised lunchtime was almost over. I should go find Mira and maybe grab a sandwich.

Mira’s POV

I walked into the cafeteria, immediately making my way towards the chefs. Luckily for me, blueberry muffins were still available. Yay!

I grabbed four. What? I'm a growing girl!

I also got the chicken sandwich Lyiana loves and a can of her favourite drink, Wonder.

She'd probably be hungry by the end of lunchtime, and I knew she'd appreciate the food.

I took everything to a table with a few familiar faces. I talked and laughed with them, occasionally looking around for Lyiana.

She really liked her quiet time, and if anyone interrupted it, they'd get the silent treatment—which was even worse.

After a while, I finished my muffins, grabbed the sandwiches and a bottle of water, and put everything in my bag before bidding them goodbye.

While walking through the hallway, I spotted her walking towards me with a pissed-off expression.

Ohhh, who got her panties in a twist?

"Hey, Lyi!" I called out.

She looked up at me and smiled.

I loved it when she did that.

"What's wrong?" I asked.

"Someone interrupted my quiet time," she said, pouting.

I just laughed. "I have just the thing to cheer you up," I said, wiggling my brows.

"A few of your favourite chicken sandwiches and your favourite all-time drink, Water!"

She burst into laughter, throwing her head back.

I was grateful for moments like these. Seeing her so happy and alive, instead of lonely, meant a lot to me.

She looked me in the eyes with a genuine smile.

"Thanks, Mira. You are the best!"

I smiled. "Anytime, Lyi!"