"24 Seconds, Yeah, You Better Not Stop" - Ella Mai
Chapter Theme Song : Ella Mai ( Shot Clock )
Impenetrable - Meaning : impossible to pass through or enter.
••
Wondering why I intervened? Among the many reasons I could think of, the one which stood out was - I know what Jared is capable of. He's not entirely well; within the past eight years, I've been trying to wrap my head around his tantrums and breakdowns. Has he always been that way? I beg to differ, he had all the love, care and support growing up. My Auntie, his mother and father dotted on him constantly before and after his younger sister was born.
Things took a sharp 360°, he became more and more overwhelmed with his sister, he couldn't stand his mother giving more attention to her. That's when we'd to come in, my father had to bring him into our home. At first, things weren't smooth. We didn't give up though, we got him to visit the psychologist regularly - it went well. Or at least for a bit, I was his favorite cousin which made me take him under my shield.
How did it go from favorite to most despised? Well it had a name, Marisa Sandoval. I'd thought all he felt for her was only a little crush at that age, he was ten. Marisa and I were eight years older, and I only saw her as a good friend nothing else. Not Jared, he'd repeatedly tell me how he couldn't wait to ask her out and a whole lot of inappropriate stuff not meant for a boy at his age then.
I tried to make him see reasons why it wasn't possible. Which wasn't received well, he got mad and walked out on me refusing to speak to me. Then a week later he came into my room to have a 'conversation'. But guess what happened instead? My little cousin of ten tried to stab me with a scissors, had I not been smart enough, he'd have succeeded. Since then, he's been on medication and appointments with his therapist. Is he still taking them and making his appointments? Guess we'll find out when I call his mother.
I don't want to scare her with all these, even though I feel the need to protect her from the danger called Jared. Despite his flaws, he knew how to be there for his loved ones - quiet pathetically he merely tolerated me. Still blames for Marisa's rejection. And it's okay, I wasn't going to have issues with an eighteen soon to be nineteen year old over a woman.
"Be Careful from now onwards, you may not be lucky the next time" I know she was confused by the look she's giving me.
"I...I don't understand sir. What do you mean?"
"Jared is a little sick, he acts irrational at times. Try not to get into an argument with him or best, avoid being alone altogether"
"Ummm....okay. Thanks for everything today"I saw her get out and walk to the door. I waited for her to disappear into the house before driving off.
There were a few things which needed my attention, as I parked my car in the garage, walking towards the front door - keyed my passcode to unlock the door, and ushered myself into the warmth comfort of my home. Cairo wagging its tail, enchanted to seeing me return. Careful not to drop my messenger bag, I used the free hand to smoother him and let him follow me to the bedroom. I have to freshen up then go down to make Cairo and I's dinner.
I put my work clothes into the washer before entering the bathroom to shower. Once the timer goes, I'd take out the clothes into the dryer. For the sake of Cairo, I had to get ready to fix his meal hence, putting on a pair of grey joggers and round neck shirt.
"Come on, let's get you some good food " carrying him to the living room. I was done making his meal when I heard the door bell, and so placing my bowl and rice crisps on the counter to get the door. I wasn't expecting anyone, Mom doesn't visit without calling in first so I was wondering who it would be coming unannounced.
"Max, my man" I should've known. He's the only person who never gives a headstart before intruding.
"I'm beginning to regret giving you a key to this place, it's about time I changed my passcode" leaving him to finish making my rice crisps.
"Quiet unfortunately it's too late" he caught up with me.
"Care for some?" He nodded, I handed him a bowl to make his.
The living room exuded a comfortable familiarity as Trent and I shared laughter, reminiscing about the good old days. Yet, beneath the banter, a subtle tension lingered. Trent shot me a teasing grin.
"So, Max, spill the beans. How's life treating you these days?" I mustered a nonchalant smile.
"Same old, same old. You know me." Trent leaned in, mischief dancing in his eyes.
"Except when it comes to Hailey McAdams."My composure faltered for a moment, a fleeting shadow crossing my features.
"Hailey? She's just my student, nothing more."Trent arched an eyebrow, reading between the lines.
"Come on, Max. I've seen the way you look at her. There's more there than you're letting on. Besides she's a very beautiful - perhaps too beautiful and she's got the body to die for" I dismissed it with a scoff, attempting to mask the internal struggle.
"You're overthinking it. She's just my student, that's it. And you're too old to be making sultry comments about your student "
As Trent continued to prod, my gaze drifted to a framed photo on the wall, my thoughts racing. Denial lingered in the air, but an undeniable truth whispered beneath the surface - Hailey had managed to breach the walls I thought were impenetrable. Nothing of that sort, she's just my student. There's no way I could be caught dead with a high schooler; precisely my own student. I can never stoop that low, while there are lots of matured ladies out there. You're exhausted Max, you've hardly rested since the semester began.
In the ethereal realm of dreams, Hailey traversed the corridors of an altered reality. The familiar classroom, a backdrop to countless lectures and academic pursuits, metamorphosed into an intimate sanctuary aglow with an otherworldly luminescence.At the forefront stood Maximiliano, a figure of authority softened by the dream's enchantment.
His typically stern countenance gave way to a warmth that permeated the dreamlike atmosphere. As their eyes locked, an invisible current of connection sparked between them, transcending the rigid constraints of their student-teacher roles.Words woven with a delicate tapestry of emotions floated through the air. Each syllable resonated with unspoken depths, forging an uncharted intimacy that defied the boundaries of the waking world. In this dream, the ordinary became extraordinary, and the nuances of their connection unfolded in a silent ballet of shared glances and fleeting touches.The dream wove a narrative of closeness and vulnerability, inviting Hailey into a realm where the rules of reality held no sway.
Maximiliano, a beacon in the dreamscape, beckoned her into a space where the complexities of their relationship unraveled.As Hailey gradually stirred from the dream's embrace, the residue clung to her like a veil of whispered secrets. Reality seeped back in, casting the dream's enchantment into the recesses of her waking thoughts. The ephemeral closeness she had experienced with Maximiliano lingered, leaving her with a poignant sense of longing as the waking world reclaimed its dominance.
As Hailey gradually emerged from the cocoon of slumber, the remnants of the dream clung to her consciousness like the soft tendrils of an elusive whisper. Her eyes, adjusting to the gentle morning light, betrayed a lingering vulnerability.
The ordinary sounds of the waking world encroached upon the dream's ephemeral sanctuary, and Hailey found herself tethered to the reality that had once again taken hold. A bittersweet nostalgia for the dream's intimacy lingered, casting a subtle shadow over the edges of her waking thoughts.
The dream, a vivid tapestry of emotions woven with threads of connection and vulnerability, left Hailey with a poignant sense of longing. Maximiliano's softened demeanor in the dream echoed in her mind, challenging the boundaries set by the roles they played in the waking world.
As Hailey moved through the motions of getting out of bed, the residue of the dream clung to her like a silent companion. The contrast between the dream's closeness and the distance of reality created a nuanced emotional landscape within her, leaving her heart entwined with threads of both desire and restraint.
The day ahead unfolded, but Hailey carried with her the echoes of the dream - a spectral imprint on her emotions, urging her to navigate the complexities of her feelings for Maximiliano with a newfound awareness.
With the dream's ethereal touch still lingering in the recesses of her mind, Hailey moved through the familiar rituals of getting ready for school. Each action carried a subdued grace, a dance between the lingering emotions of the dream and the practicalities of the waking world.
As she stood before the mirror, her gaze lingered a moment longer than usual, reflecting the contemplative mood that accompanied her morning. The echo of Maximiliano's softened presence in the dream cast a subtle glow on the mundane tasks that lay ahead.
Her fingers traced absentminded patterns as she selected an outfit, the choice influenced by a subconscious desire to capture the elusive intimacy of the dream. The ordinary act of dressing became a silent homage to the emotions still echoing within her.
Hailey's steps through the house bore the weight of introspection, the residue of the dream weaving an intricate narrative beneath the surface of her composed exterior. The morning routine, once a mechanical procession, now unfolded with a sense of deliberate mindfulness.
As she prepared to leave for school, the dream's imprint clung to her like a delicate veil. The complexities of her emotions for Maximiliano lingered, adding a layer of depth to the mundane reality of the school day ahead. Hailey moved forward, a subtle glow of introspection coloring the canvas of her morning routine.
The morning sun cast a gentle glow over the school courtyard as Hailey arrived, the dream's ethereal touch still woven into the fabric of her thoughts. The rhythmic hum of students and the familiar chatter of morning activities surrounded her, creating a backdrop for the complex emotions she carried.
Navigating through the bustling hallways, Hailey's eyes sought out the familiar figure of her best friend, Chase. He stood near the lockers, an easy grin on his face, oblivious to the currents of introspection that clung to Hailey.
As she approached, a forced smile played on her lips, an attempt to conceal the emotional residue of the dream. Chase, ever perceptive, glanced at her and furrowed his brow.
"Morning, Hailey. Something on your mind?" he asked, his eyes reflecting a mixture of concern and curiosity.
Hailey hesitated for a moment, then sighed, deciding to share a fragment of her inner world. "I had this dream, Chase. It was... intense."
Chase raised an eyebrow, leaning against the lockers. "Spill. What happened in this mysterious dream of yours?"
As Hailey began recounting the dream, the weight of the emotions spilled into her words. Chase listened attentively, his understanding gaze unwavering. The courtyard transformed into a confessional space, the shared vulnerability bridging the gap between dream and reality.
The bell rang, signaling the start of classes, and Hailey and Chase moved towards their first class. The dream's imprint lingered, adding an unspoken layer to their interactions. As they navigated the challenges of the school day, the shared secret of Hailey's dream became a silent bond between friends, grounding her in the midst of the complex emotions that continued to ripple beneath the surface.
The hallway buzzed with the energy of students shuffling towards their homeroom as Hailey and Chase made their way to the door. As they stepped inside, they found an unusual scene - their homeroom teacher was conspicuously absent, leaving the room in a state of anticipatory hush.
Whispers rippled through the students as the realization set in that someone needed to take charge. Maximiliano Torres, a stoic figure of authority, stood near the front of the room, his eyes scanning the class with a measured intensity. The unspoken acknowledgment passed between Hailey and Maximiliano, their connection subtly amplified by the lingering resonance of the dream.
Chase shot Hailey a knowing look, his eyebrows raising in silent recognition of the unexpected situation. Maximiliano, responding to the unspoken need, stepped forward and assumed the role of temporary authority.
"Good morning, class," Maximiliano's voice, typically reserved for lectures, now carried a calm assurance. "Your regular teacher is unable to join us today, so I'll be taking over."
As Maximiliano seamlessly transitioned into the role, Hailey couldn't help but feel a subtle shift in the air. The dream's imprint seemed to weave through the dynamics of the classroom, casting a unique hue on the mundane proceedings.
Throughout the class period, Maximiliano guided the students with a precision that left an impression. Hailey observed the way he effortlessly commanded the room, the dream's echoes adding a layer of complexity to the usual teacher-student dynamic.
As the class came to an end, Maximiliano, relinquishing the impromptu role, exchanged a brief glance with Hailey. Their eyes met, and for a fleeting moment, the boundaries blurred, carrying the unspoken understanding that lingered from the dream into the classroom's reality.
The day unfolded with a peculiar blend of normalcy and tension, the aftermath of Maximiliano's impromptu homeroom takeover lingering in the air. Hailey navigated the routine of classes, her interactions with Maximiliano carrying a subtle undercurrent. The dream's imprint, now woven into the fabric of their shared reality, added a layer of complexity to their teacher-student dynamic.
In the corridor between classes, Hailey found herself in an unexpected encounter with Maximiliano. Their brief exchange echoed with a lingering familiarity, a silent acknowledgment of the dream that had woven its way into their thoughts.
"Hailey," Maximiliano's voice, usually measured, held a softness that hinted at the complexities beneath the surface. "I appreciate your understanding during the homeroom situation."
Hailey nodded, a mixture of gratitude and unspoken questions lingering in her gaze. The hallway conversation, while restrained, carried the weight of a shared secret, setting the stage for an unforeseen twist in the day's events.
As afternoon classes commenced, an unexpected announcement rippled through the school speakers. An upcoming teacher-student talent show was announced, aimed at fostering a sense of camaraderie within the school community. The news sent a ripple of excitement through the students, and Hailey couldn't help but exchange a surprised glance with Chase.
The prospect of participating in the talent show presented a unique challenge and opportunity. Maximiliano, ever composed, received the news with a measured expression. The dream's influence, however subtle, seemed to add an intriguing layer to the unfolding events.
In the midst of the ordinary school day, the unexpected prospect of the talent show injected a sense of anticipation and uncertainty. As the day progressed, the subtle dance between Hailey, Maximiliano, and the dream's lingering echoes set the stage for a convergence of emotions that promised to reshape the dynamics between teacher and student in ways yet to be revealed.
The final bell echoed through the corridors as Hailey and Chase made their way to the school car park, the lingering tension of the day's events still palpable. The setting sun cast long shadows, painting the scene with a quiet intensity.
As they approached the parking lot, their friend Jade's elder brother, Stanley, appeared, his usually carefree demeanor replaced by an unspoken gravity. Hailey and Chase exchanged concerned glances as Stanley approached them, his expression etched with a mixture of distress and urgency.
"Hey, guys," Stanley began, his voice betraying the weight of the news he carried. "I need to talk to you about Jade. It's... it's serious."
Dread settled in Hailey's chest as Stanley
revealed the shocking truth - Jade's parents had discovered her attempted suicide, and the decision had been made to send her to a boarding school for her well-being. The news hung in the air, casting a somber shadow over the fading daylight.
Chase's eyes widened in disbelief, and Hailey struggled to find words as the gravity of the situation unfolded. The revelation about Jade's struggles shook the foundation of their friendship, leaving them grappling with the unexpected and profound.
Stanley explained that their parents believed the change of environment and specialized support at the boarding school would offer her a chance for healing. As the reality sank in, Hailey and Chase exchanged a silent acknowledgment of the challenges their friend faced.
The car park, once a backdrop for casual conversations and laughter, now bore witness to a solemn revelation that redefined the contours of their friendship. Hailey, Chase, and Stanley stood together, united by the unexpected turn of events, their thoughts swirling with concern for Jade and the uncharted territory that lay ahead.
~
______________________________________________
🤗💜! Anyways, guys 😩😩thank you for 1K reads and 90 votes,you don't know how much this means to me. Started this book, and I never thought it could get this much reads . So thank you for picking up my book, reading ( voting which is very important and sharing your thoughts which is also important) Thank you so much guys, continue supporting and promoting my book. Love you all!