I Bet I Would

Chapter 30: Drive Me Home

PAULENE

I went to Martin to thank him for the tacos. I said that I had to take my leave already.

Ashton's band is still playing. 

I mouth at Ashton the words, "Got to go" while pointing my index finger to the Exit.

"Wait," He says through the microphone.

James, Eric, and Horace stopped playing their instruments.

Ashton said something to the guys, put his guitar down the floor, got off the stage, and jogged towards me.

"We still have time, Pau."

"I know. I'm sorry. You just practice here. I have to go back. I forgot I need to finish an assignment." I lied.

"I'll drive you."

"But--"

"No buts. I'll just go back here after dropping you off to school."

I gave him a nod and waved at Martin and the guys. They waved back. 

Horace called out, "Take care, Pau!"

"Ashton, you really don't have to."

"Sssshhh! Just get in the car."

I did what I was told.

Everything just feels so wrong and out of place.

"Are you alright?" He asked, breaking the silence inside the car.

"Yes. I'm just worried about the assignment," I mumbled. I hate having to lie so much every now and then.

"You should quit being so grade conscious, Pau. Live a little."

I faked a laugh.

"Can I be the one to drive you home later?"

What?

He wants to drive me home?

I guess there's no harm in that. Taking the bus can get tiresome.

"Sure. Pick me up at around 4:30."

"Yes, Ma'am!" He exclaimed.

In no time, we reached the school campus. I got off Ashton's Nissan Versa.

"Thanks again. Sorry, you had to drive me all the way here."

"I was the one who insisted. You're so stubborn, Josiah."

I let out a hearty laugh and closed the car door.

I walked a bit and turned around to see his car speeding away.

FRANZ

I entered the room for our Ancient and Medieval Political Science class.

I bet that I didn't miss anything much. After all, this is just the second meeting. 

The professor probably just gave an orientation.

There are already students inside the room. 

It's really quiet. Too quiet that it is disturbing.

Oh.

The professor is here.

I check my wrist watch.

He is 10 minutes early. How prompt. 

I saw Paulene at the third row. There's a girl sitting at her right, but, there's an empty chair at her left.