Choosing Mr. Destiny - Chapter 9: Chapter 9

Ashley's POV
Days went by fast and I was thankful, at the same time relieved. Just as promised, the principal arranged a meeting after school the next day with the staff along with my friends. We discussed about the rumors circling in school as well as the recent incident of Barron terrorizing me.
We also went through the CCTV files and found something that we can use to track the suspect behind all these dramas. Also, as the meeting went on, Principal Cruz didn't waste time as he addressed the incident between Barron Samaniego and I.
He called Barron into the meeting and went on with basically roasting him with questions. When the Principal was finally satisfied with the interrogation he did with Barron, he went on to giving him the Judgement. Right in front of all of us, direct to the point, he expelled Barron. By the looks Mr. Cruz was having that time, all those inside the room knew he wasn't having second thoughts and that, his decision is final.
He also told Barron that when he enrolls to another school, they will be notified about his previous behaviors when he was still a student here. In that way, the school will keep an eye on him at all times, just in case he does something stupid.
Even though I wasn't really fond of the idea of expelling him, I guess it's also for the best. Barron has done enough and I don't want this same situation to happen to other students if ever he gets to stay. I do think the punishment being given to him was a bit too much, but considering the fact that he managed to hurt me physically because of him being a homophobe makes me think he did deserve it.
No matter the gender, we all deserve to live in peace, given the same treatment, and respected as humans. In my perception, nothing is different. We are the same human who breathes the same air, lives and dies in the same planet, and all turns to dust. No matter how rich or poor, we will all decompose when the time comes.
So why hate?
I guess people are just close minded that way.
But then again, that's what it is. Life is tough and it will always be that way no matter how many changes we go through.
The only thing we can do is prepare ourselves for it. Just like what I always do.
I never expected for these thing to happen but I know deep down, it will happen. I guess I was just caught off guard even with how much I prepare for it.
And now that what's done is done, life moves on.
Once the matter was finally settled, I would say I'm happy of the outcome.
Although It may have came out a bit harsh for Barron's side, I guess it was meant to be. He harvested the doings he had done and now he had to face it.
And now that one thing was successfully removed off my shoulder, all I have to think and worry about is the rumor still actively spreading around school.
The meeting ended with new evidences of who really is behind all this. And hopefully, we'll have the answers we needed in due time.
Meanwhile, today is Saturday and here I am, brainstorming on what to wear on my first date.
Yes, you heard that right, I am going out on a date.
I've finally gave in to Jacob's persistence of asking me out. And even with Connor constantly giving me hints, I decided to try and give Jacob a chance. Not that I'm already choosing Jacob over Connor, it's just my way of getting to know them.
Damn, that sounded different in my head. It's like I'm casually dating two guys just to see who fits of being my boyfriend. That's just messed up, don't you think?
But anyways, after practically flipping my closet upside down in search for clothes to wear, I finally gave up and slumped into my bed. I should probably call the person who has more experience in this dating thing than me. And that would be none other than Lea. Or maybe I should also call Besty as well, maybe she can help me with this wardrobe crisis I'm currently in.
I fetched my century old phone from my bed side table and searched for Besty and Lea's numbers in my contact. I dialed Lea's number first.
*Ring ring ring*
L: "Hey Ashy boo, what made you call in this fine Saturday afternoon?" She asked from the other line on her usual sweet voice.
I smiled.
M: "Would it be weird that I'm having a little panic attack over some damn clothes? Because sadly, for the last couple of hours that I've been rummaging my closet, I wasn't able to find any that I can wear for my damn date." I said as anxiety started to build up inside me.
She giggled.
L: "Aww that's s cute. First date problems at it's finest, I see." She cooed.
I nodded even though she can't see me.
M: "To sum it all up? Yeah, I'm having first date dilemma right now. So if you can come over and help me before I go insane would be much appreciated." I told her then practically begged her to help me with this madness.
She giggled again.
L: "You called the right person my dear friend. By the way, what time is your date with Jacob?" She said and I let out a sigh of relief.
I turned to the clock on my wall and saw it's still 4 in the afternoon. I sighed in relief, knowing I still have 3 hours to prepare for my date.
M: "He said he'll come pick me up at 7 pm." I told her while scratching the back of my neck.
She hummed understandingly on the other line.
L: "Okay then, I'll be there in 10 minutes. And don't worry hon, I got your back." She said reassuringly to me.
I smiled gratefully.
M: "Thank you Lea, you're a life saver." I stated before hearing her giggle once again and then we hang up.
After I called Lea, I called Besty next. Our conversation came in short. She told me she'll be here but she said she might come in late because she was still doing something. What ever it is, it must be important. So with that said, I told her it's no problem and that she can come in when she's no longer busy. After that, I hang up and put my phone back on my bed before I went back to searching in my small closet.
I didn't think dating would be this stressfull especially if it's your first time. God, let's just hope everything goes well tonight.
I was still busy in my closet when I realized something.
I still haven't informed Papa that I'll be going out tonight.
I sighed while slouching.
Why of all things to be forgotten, It has to be this?
Sighing once more in mild annoyance, I went out of my bedroom and made my way towards the living room. I'm sure he's in there probably watching a show on the TV since it's already afternoon. I went down the stairs and after that, I made a turn heading towards the living room as I saw Papa sitting on the couch with a remote in his hands with his feet positioned on the coffee table. Then he turned to me after he noticed my presence. I smiled and Papa returned it with his own.
Then all of a sudden, nervousness struck me like lightning bolts.
Crap. I thought.
When Papa patted the seat next to him, I politely oblige with a smile.
"Is everything okay?" He asked as he placed the remote on the coffee table.
I shook my head gently. "Nothing Papa, I just want to ask you something, if it's fine." I stated, being cautious.
He rested his right arm on the top of the couch. "What is it?" He asked.
"So uh, my friends and I are planning on going out tonight but I forgot to tell you ahead of time, so yeah." I said direct to the point.
"Where are you guys heading?" He asked once again with his eyes trained on the TV.
I scratched the top of my hand.
"I don't really know where but Ashley Rose said I'm going to like it." I lied.
He hummed as he turned his gaze to me.
"So Ashley Rose is going to be there?"
I nodded.
"Who else?" He continued.
"Uh, my three other friends. You know, Lea, Joseph, and Brie?" I told him in which he also nodded his head.
"Oh okay." He said as he went quiet.
I sat there waiting for his approval. But when he didn't utter anything, I decided to speak up.
"So is it okay?" I questioned.
Papa turned to me with a neutral look on his aging face.
"As long as you come home no later than 10 pm tonight." He said in which I perked up happily.
"Really?" I asked in confirmation.
He nodded. "Really."
I smiled. "Okay deal." I said as I beamed towards him.
Papa chuckled at my enthusiasm before ruffling my hair.
"But I still have conditions." He added making me halt on my little celebratory moment.
"Eh?" I spoke.
"Conditions Ash." He said. "You're not legal yet so I have to give you some rules."
I pouted. "I already know what those conditions Papa." I told him in which he raised a brow.
"Really?" He asked. "So what are they then?"
I sighed. "No drinking, no drugs, and definitely, no sex."
"Sex is fine as long as there's condom." He said.
I nodded. "Yes, sex is fine as long as there's con............ What?"
Papa laughed loudly.
"I'm just saying." He stated with a shrug. "We all know teenagers these days. No matter how many times we tell them not to have sex, you always do anyway. Besides, you'll get to experience it eventually so might as well give you the go signal. Just please, use condom. I'm way to young to be a Grandpa." He said making me speechless.
He did not just give me 'The Talk', did he?
I blinked.
"Are you casually giving me 'The Talk' Papa?" I asked with wide eyes.
He shrugged. "Yes." He said directly.
Oh no, he didn't.
"Papa I'm only 17." I told him.
He nodded. "And can get someone pregnant. So use condom and lube."
"Papa!" I exclaimed.
"There's a whole box in that drawer." He said while pointing towards the said drawer. "You can take three."
"W-Wha.... Why three?"
"Well there's Ashley Rose and Lea."
And I sat there watching him in complete horror.
"And just in case Lea brought a friend with her, you still have extra."
I blinked again as I gaped at my father.
"Oh my god, Papa."
"Okay, you can take four." He added.
I shook my head. "No. Oh my freaking god, they are my friends Papa. Friends!" I exclaimed as I looked at him still in horror.
"So? That doesn't mean you can't have sex? Friends experiment, you know."
And just like that, my jaw was nowhere to be found and my embarrassment was through the roof heading towards Jupiter.
I shot my hands up in surrender as I stood up from the couch. "I'm done."
As I made my way towards my bedroom, Papa spoke up.
"Don't forget the condoms."
I groaned.
"I am no near taking those with me." I said as I turned around to face him.
"Then you can't go out tonight." He said with a smile.
I gaped at him for who know how many times already.
"Are you serious?"
He scoffed. "Do I look like I'm bluffing? Am I? Well, of course I'm being serious."
I groaned again.
"And since when were you sarcastic?" I asked as I looked at him feeling drained out.
He shrugged.
"Just recently." He admitted. "Kids these days do it all the time, so I had to adapt."
I slouched feeling tired. "Oh god."
"So, if you don't take the condom with you, then say bye bye to your night out." He said making me groan loudly.
"But Pa!" I argued.
"No night out." He pointed out as he turned to the TV.
I sighed in frustration.
"Fine."
I walked towards the drawer and took a packet of condom.
"Take three more." He called out from where he was sitting.
I turned to him, feeling like I was about to cry.
"You've got to be kidding me."
He shook his head.
"No night out."
I was screaming as loud as I can inside my head at that point.
"Ah skittles." I mumbled. "Fine!" I yelled before taking three more packets and storming towards my room.
"Have fun!" Papa yelled from the living room.
I rolled my eyes. "Yeah right. Fun my butt."
Closing the door behind me, I took a sigh of relief.
That was draining as heck, but at least I get to go on that date.
Finally after 10 minutes, Lea arrived. After she said her greetings to my father, we immediately went straight to my bedroom.
Not wasting a second, she went right on to business and started searching my closet for what ever she thinks would suit me for this freaking date.
She took out t-shirts, jeans, polos and all sorts. Then she slowly motioned me over.
"Can you stand in front of the mirror Please?" She asked while looking through all the clothes she took out.
I followed what she asked as I stood in front of the mirror.
I turned to her and saw how she was taking this very seriously. Her face was showing nothing but concentration, telling me she ain't playing at all.
"Okay." She spoke as she walked towards me. "What about this?" She said more to herself after she placed a shirt infront of my body and checking it in the mirror. Unsatisfied, she shook her head then tried another one, and another one, and another one.
"Maybe this? No, too formal. Or this? Nope, too simple. Or what about this?" She paused with a hum. "Ehh, doesn't look right." She mumbled to herself.
I just stood there amused while she busied herself with my clothes.
We've been doing the exact same exact thing for roughly an hour and a half when finally, Besty came barging into my room like she always do.
So with the two fashion gurus in one room, one didn't approve of the other's choice which caused for a debate over what I should wear for my date. They made me wear this then told me to wear that, it's been a chaos the whole time which was sometimes irritating. But who am I to complain? At least they're helping me, right?
But when things started to get a little out of hand, and the two of them started to fight over some freaking t-shirt, I decided to step in.
"Okay girls enough. Stop fighting over a freaking shirt will you?" I said. "My father is downstairs and I'm sure if you both keep this up, he'll hear your screaming. And also worth mentioning, Alicia's bedroom is literally right next to mine. So please, please quiet down." I told the both of them in a whisper-like shout.
"Sorry." The two of them apologized making me roll my eyes. When the both calmed down, they went back to what ever they were doing with my clothes.
I sat down on my bed and sighed.
"Uh Ash?" Besty suddenly spoke up, gaining my attention.
I turned to her.
"Why do you have those?" She asked pointing at my bedside table.
I followed her finger and realized she was pointing at the four condom packets.
OH MY FREAKING GOD.
I turned to the two of them and saw identical smirks.
"No. It's not what you think it is." I defended.
"Right. We now use condoms to make balloons for dates. How kinky." Lea said still smirking.
I shivered. "Oh god, no. I'm not going to use it."
The both of them looked at me wide eyed.
"Wow. So you're going to let him in bare? That is super kinky." Lea countered again.
"No! I'm not going to have sex, okay." I said. "It's Papa........"
They gasped loudly. "Oh my goodness, Ash are you serious? Please, you can go with anyone else, just not your own Dad."
I almost gagged right then and there.
"Will you please let me finish!" I yelled making them shut up in an instant. "And ewwwww no."
When both of them had gone quiet, I spoke.
"I was going to say, Papa gave me those just for safety measures, you green minded weirdos." I said. "And in fact, he won't let me go unless I take the condoms with me."
"Uh, obviously. I mean what else can you use condom for other than safety measures? And okay, that does makes sense." Besty spoke up.
"But why four though? I mean, isn't one enough?" Lea questioned.
"I'm wondering the same thing too." Besty chimed in.
"Jesus Christ. I already said I'm not having sex with anyone." I replied frustrated.
"He's probably going to drain Jacob dry." Lea said towards Besty who nodded.
"Probably. So four condoms now makes sense." She said making me drop my body on my bed and covered my ears with pillows to muffle their conversation.
When I heard laughing, I took the pillow out and sat back up on my bed.
"We were just teasing you Ash." Lea said still chuckling.
"We know you're not that kind of person who simply opens their butthole to anyone." Besty added.
I frowned at her. "Gee thanks Besty. That was really helpful."
She smiled widely. "You're very welcome."
With that, I rolled my eyes.
"But anyways, your clothes are right there, you're welcome." Lea said pointing towards the pile of clothes resting on my desk chair.
Standing up from my bed, I went to grab the clothes sitting neatly before I headed out of my bedroom.
After I closed the door, I heard giggles coming out of Lea and Besty in which I shrug off.
Once I was inside our shared bathroom, I made sure the door was securely locked. I didn't want anyone barging in with me practically naked.
When I was one hundred precent sure the door was firmly locked, I began stripping clothes of one by one and threw them in the basket along with the dirty ones. And when I was done putting on deodorant, I put in the clothes the girls prepared for me.
After I was fully dressed, I walked towards the mirror and inspected myself.
"Not bad." I spoke to myself as I combed my semi wet hair in my hand.
Finishing up in the bathroom, I put on some moisturizer on my face before finally stepping out.
But right as I step foot into the hallway leading to my own room, my soul almost left my poor skinny and sexy body when someone startled the life out of me.
"Boo."
"Wahhh!" I jumped nearly ten feet off the ground and shrieked like a banshee. And as for the suspect, she just laughed her butt off.
Clutching my chest, I turned to look at the responsible for my near death and glared daggers toward her.
"What the hell is wrong with you?" I told her still out of breath. She just stood there still laughing as she leaned against the wall for support. Evil witch.
"You... should have.. seen your face." She said between laughs as she tried to catch her breath. Yeah you should die from too much laughing, you witch.
But I love you sis, so don't.
"Ha.ha.ha very funny. I almost had a heart attack and you think it was hilarious. I could have died you know." I told her with an unimpressed look on my face.
She gave a sorry look as she wiped a tear from her eye. "Sorry about that lil' brother. I was very bored and didn't have anything else to do." She reasoned out causing for me to glare at her again.
"Right. And killing me was your way of entertainment. Sounds fun." I commented sassily making her roll her eyes.
"By the way, what's the occassion?" She asked after seeing me well dressed.
"None of your business." I said blandly as I started heading back to my room.
"Oh come on." She cried out while walking behind me.
I opened my bedroom door and shut it close in front of Alicia's face. I know that was kind of rude but I was annoyed at her. She knows I don't like being startled, but she still did it anyway.
I turned around and saw my friends now laying on my bed.
"Oh my." Besty said in amazement after she turned to look at me.
"Someone surely is going to be drooling over you tonight Ash." Lea said with a wink.
I cringed.
"Might as well put the condom on good use." She added with a suggestive eyebrow shake.
I rolled my eyes at her. "I'm not going to lose my virginity. Not tonight, not ever." I said.
"You're not going to lose your virginity, yet. But you will." Besty teased.
"Not happening. Not ever." I stated.
The two smirked. "We'll see." Besty said.
"But anways, what's with the scowl?" Lea asked, changing the subject.
"Just my sister planning to murder me." I told them casually.
"Am not." Alicia shouted outside my door and I rolled my eyes again.
Then the two girls formed an 'o' with there mouth and nodded their heads.
"Okay, lets get back to work." Besty said getting up from my bed and looking my way.
"Just sit down Besty. I can fix my hair on my own." I told her. "Choosing the clothes for me tonight is enough, so now, you guys relax.
She nodded and went back to laying in my bed.
I walked towards my drawer and took my comb and gel, then stood infront of my mirror next to my drawer. After that, I poured a good amount of gel into my hands and began to rub my hands together and went to style my hair the way I want it. When the gel was evenly applied on my hair, I combed it a bit then styled it with my hands again to what ever look I desired it to be. Examining my reflection on the mirror for a while, I tilted my head to different angles to see if my hair was on point. I smirked at myself when I was finally satisfied with my work.
After putting the comb and gel back in my drawer, I turned to the two female human beings laying in my bed. Besty had her eyes closed so I guess she slept, while Lea, she was busy typing away on her phone.
"How do I look?" I asked, effectively gaining their attentions.
The two of them turned to me.
"You look great Besty. You always do." Besty complimented with a smile. I smiled back at her with a light blush on my cheeks.
"Oh la la, hot tamales, now you really look edible." Lea exclaimed with a whistle. "I wouldn't be surprised if Jacob wanted to take a bite of that sexy sizzling hot body of yours." Lea added causing for my cheeks to heat up even more.
I slightly shuddered at the mental image she gave me.
"But seriously, no sex yet." Besty said teasingly. I shuddered again at the thought.
"Girls please stop it. You both are giving me nasty mental images. Not cool." I admitted truthfully. They both giggled.
"Just saying. And besides, it's normal." Lea teased again then winked at me.
"No. It's far beyond normal." I said defensively. "Well, to me at least." I added causing for the both of them to start laughing at my blushing face.
"You're too cute Ash." Besty commented before we went on to casual conversation.
And when I say casual, it means the two of them roasting me with nasty thoughts about sex and how big Jacob's dinky might be.
I swear to the high heavens, they are such bad influence.
As the three of us continued having conversations about random stuff, I suddenly heard a honk coming from the driveway.
Oh snap.
He's finally here, isn't he?.
I told him to honk twice when he arrived, so maybe he really is outside.
Suddenly, my phone began to ring.
I picked it up and saw Jacob on the caller ID.
I pressed the answer button and placed the phone on my left ear.  I turned to the girls and saw them watching me silently as I stood up and went to my window.
Me: "Hey Jacob." I said starting to get a little nervous.
J: "Hey Ash. Are you ready? I'm already here in the car outside your house." He said on the other line. I opened the curtain hanging on my window and saw a car waiting outside.
I cleared my throat.
M: "Yes, I'm ready. I'll be down in a minute." I told Jacob before closing the curtains back up.
Turning back to my friends, I saw them sitting there still watching me quietly.
J: "Okay cool, no rush. I'll wait here." He said as I heard a tiny bit of nervousness in his voice as it wavered slightly.
Me: "Okay see you in a sec." I told him while motioning for the girls to stand up in which they immediately followed.
J: "Alright." Was all he said before I hang up the call. I turned to the girls who both have a raised eyebrows.
"He's outside waiting." I told Lea and Besty who smiled knowingly.
"Okay then. Well, off you go." Besty said ushering me out of the room.
"We have to go out together so Papa won't get suspicious if ever he sees us." I told them and they frowned.
"Why?" Besty asked.
I scratched the back of my hand.
"I kinda lied to Papa that I'm hanging out with you guys." I admitted.
Besty and Lea sighed. "Fine."
And with that, we walked out of my room and went down the stairs. I told Lea and Besty to wait for me near the door as I go look for Papa.
I went to the living room but Papa wasn't t there so I tried the kitchen.
There I saw him preparing for dinner, along with Alicia who was chopping some vegetables.
"Hey Papa." I called, halting him on his cooking.
"Are you heading out?" He asked as he wiped his hands with the towel.
I nodded my head.
"Come here." He said in which I stepped closer to him.
He then fetched his wallet and handed my money.
"Don't use that to drugs." He joked making me chuckle.
"I won't Papa, I promise." I told him.
He laughed. "I know you. Now off you go." He said. "And make sure you'll be home at 10, okay?" He reminded.
"Okay." I replied while jogging back to the front door.
After that, Besty, Lea, and I all stepped out of the house.
Suddenly, the driver's door opened and out came Jacob who was looking so freakishly handsome. He walked around the hood and went towards the passenger door before he opened it and motioned for me to get inside in a gentleman way.
Besty and Lea nudged me in the arms with a huge smile both on their faces and I blushed. Gosh, my date had just started and I'm already a blushing mess. What more if we're in the middle of the date? My face would be gushing out blood.
"Hey tomorrow, me and Connor wanted to go to the lake and have a swim. Wanna join us?" Besty asked suggestively at me while Lea went to her car that was parked a little behind Jacob's.
"Uhm, I'll go ask Papa if he allows m..." My sentence was cut off half way when Besty shook her head.
"I already asked him and he said yes. So no need for that. Just prepare for tomorrow and we'll come pick you up. But for now, enjoy your date okay? Lea said she'll take me home so don't worry." Besty said and I once again, nodded my head. Then she kissed my cheek and gave me a wink before walking towards Lea's car.
I turned to look at Jacob and he was already watching me with a smile while still holding the passenger door open. I walked towards him and gave him a shy smile with my cheek still having a slight tint of red in it.
Gosh, I'm so embarassing.
"Hi." I greeted shyly.
Jacob beamed.
"Hi." He greeted back. "You look gorgeous tonight by the way." Jacob complimented causing for the blush to worsen.
Jacob grinned at me, showing his pearly white teeth.
"T-Thank you. Y-you uhm, you look handsome tonight too." I stuttered a bit and said it barely above a whisper.
Jacob chuckled deeply as he stared down at me, in which I seriously had to fight the urge to shudder at how deep his chuckle was.
Then he motioned for me to hop in the passenger's seat and I gratefully oblige. Jacob walked around the hood and climbed inside the driver's seat right after. We then both buckled ourselves up before Jacob started the car and drove out of our driveway.
When we were finally on the highway, I was tempted to ask where he's taking me but too shy to do it. So I remained silent. I looked at him in the corner of my eyes and admired his look.
It was simple but hot.
He was wearing a gray long sleeved polo shirt, with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows. He also wore a plain fitted jeans that hugged his perfectly toned thighs and leg muscles making him sexier than he already is. Then down to his shoes. He was wearing simple dirty white colored high cut converse. The outfit he's wearing tonight was... simple as I'd like to put it. So I guess I worried myself to death about those damn clothes for nothing.
I feel so dumb right now.
Jacob was being hot and masculine in his outfit tonight while I was being.... me. Nothing fancy or eye-catching, just simply me. That's why I wondered why those two girls reacted like I'm some kind of food. I mean seriously, they spend almost two hours debating on what I should wear and then they came up with this. I'm wearing a Plain lavander 'V' neck t-shirt that fits my skinny body perfectly. I don't have any muscles to impress or show off since I'm skinny, so I'm happy with what they chose for me.
Though don't be mistaken, I may be skinny but I can infertile a guy twice my size in a single kick. Just saying.
Anyways, I am also wearing a semi-faded kind of ripped skinny jeans, that I can say I looked good on, because it highlights by butt.
And yes, I have a butt. A butt of a woman to be exact.
It's a gift but at the same time a curse. I get teased by some of my friends and relatives because I looked like a girl if I was to show my back to them, having my 'behind' in full view. My two sisters would whine at my Mother because I was blessed in the butt section more than them.
It's not my fault though. Maybe I'm just that lucky when it comes to the butt. But in the other parts, not so much.
I'm blessed with a nice 'behind' but I don't have good 'future' that all girls have, well not all of them, but mostly, if you know what I mean.
But it's not like I want one.
Gross.
Those wobbly, squishy and bouncy things.
Eww.
Why do guys like to play with those anyways?
As I was saying, I can say I'm not ugly or beautiful. Not to sound too egoistic or conceited but I do believe I'm cute.
I am also wearing a converse shoes with white and black with a bit of purple checkered design on it. I know, odd combination but it looks good though. So that's about it on how I looked.
Simple but cute, and I'm confident enough to say I'm rocking it.
It's been ten minutes of driving and I was growing curious minute by minute as to where Jacob was taking me. I've been looking at the signs on the side of the road for some clue but instead of finding information, I'm getting more confused. Mind you, it's harder to navigate during the night than day. That's why it's hard to know if I'm familiar to the sorroundings or not.
Duh, It's not like I have super eyesights like a werewolf have. I'm just a hooman, a very cute hooman.
"Uhm Jacob, where are you taking me?" I finally asked after a minute of mentally debating wether to ask him or just stay quiet.
"It's a surprise." Jacob said simply with a mischievous smirk on his face. My eyebrows rose up with what he said then eyed him suspiciously.
"You're not kidnapping me, are you?" I asked him with weary eyes before bitting my bottom lip.
Jacob laughed. "Where did that Idea came from Ash?" He asked while taking a glance at me and still chuckling.
"I don't know. It just popped out of my head." I said innocently with a shrug.
"Well to answer your question, no, I'm kidnapping you. I'm taking you to a place that I hope you'd like." He said with a chuckle as he took another glance at me before turning back to the road to focus on driving.
"That's so nice of you, but what place?" I said in excitement and delight but also hoping that my question would make him slip up the answer.
He chuckled with his eyes still on the road. "You'll see. But for now, just relax." He said with a gentle look on his face.
"Fine. But can you at least tell me how long is drive up there?" I asked as I positioned myself comfortably on my seat.
He chuckled again. "30 more minutes and we will be there." He said casually and focused his attention back on the road.
Then silence followed after that.
Thirty minutes more minutes. I'm sure I can survive being next to Jacob that long. I know he's being edible as a heck right now, but I'm sure I'll get through it. Right?
A comfortable silence was in the air with only the radio making a slight noise in the background. Though as cliché as it may sound but the freaking radio was playing a freaking love song. I glared to nothing in particular and tried my best to ignore the music playing in the background. Who the hell plays Love Story by Taylor Swift in 2017? That song is annoying (AU: No offense to all Swifties and Taylor Swift fans out there).
Finally, 25 minutes later, we arrived into a town that I was familiar with. Then Jacob asked me to close my eyes and to never ever take a peek. I did as I was told and closed my eyes and covered my face with my hands so Jacob won't get suspicious.
After 5 minutes, I felt the car went to a full stop. And at that point, I got even more excited to where Jacob took me.
"You can open your eyes now." He said with a chuckle and excitement in his voice. But underneath those, I was also sensing a bit of nervousness.
I removed my hands from my face before I opened my eyes. I blinked rapidly to adjust my eyes on the light.
Finally, after my visions adjusted, I quickly observed thee surroundings.
"Oh my God." I whispered in shock and excitement, feeling my eyes going wide.
He took me to a carnival!
Now I remember it's the towns yearly festival of music and today is the opening day. Oh my. I love carnivals, the booths, the games and other fun things to do except the rides. Don't ever make me step into any kind of rides because that will surely be the cause of my death. I learned my lesson in a hard way when I as a kid. So no, not going to those steel death traps. I'd rather be in a food coma than be in those freak rides, but I rather choose to live than be in either of those situations.
"So. Let's start our date, shall we?" Jacob said with a smile and he wiggled his eyebrows cutting my thoughts. I nodded and he took my hands in his as we went to pay for our entrance.
And guess what, he bought us an all access ticket.
When we were finally inside, we looked around to find something interesting and fun to do first. I saw a booth where you shoot an object and if you hit it, you will have a reward. I turned to Jacob but saw him watching the rides. I gulped and started feeling a bit nervous. Please not those rides. It practically shouts danger and death in my head.
He turned to me and beamed excitedly then he nodded towards the ferris wheel and started pulling me with him. Right then and there I started feeling my heart beat going faster than normal, I thought it might come out of my ribcage.
"W-wait Jacob." I told him nervously.
He turned to me still smiling. It made me think that if he's quickly enjoying our date, then if I said we can't go to the rides, that will just ruin his mood and I don't want that to happen. But I'm afraid of rides, of any kind, and I don't want the past to happen to me ever again.
"What's wrong?" Jacob asked sounding concerned. I internally wince when I figured that if I told him about my fear of rides, his mood will plummet and effectively ruining our date.
"Uhm, don't you thinks we should g-go to some booths first?" I said hopeful that he'll go with it. "I mean look over there. You see that one? If you hit the target on the top spot you'll get a reward. Look at that purple teddy bear. It's so cute. Please, I want to win it." I said as I tried my best to stir him away from the rides.
I batted my eyelashes at him for effect.
"Let's ride the ferris wheel first, then we'll go to every booth you want and I'll do my best to win you a prize." He said as blood drained out of my body.
"What do you think?" He said excitedly with a beaming smile. I eyed the ferris wheel anxiously and debated in my head wether we ride or not. But Jacob was practically beaming with excitement for me to say no. So I guess I have no othre choice but to just get on with it
"O-Okay." I said.
Jacob beamed even brighter as he dragged me towards the dreadful ride.
I just hope nothing goes wrong during the ride because I don't think I can keep my panic in check if something happens.
When we got inside a cage-like thing, and after the guy closed the door and locked it for safety, my anxiety suddenly skyrocketed. I feel like I'm being choked and my lungs stopped inhaling oxygen. My ears started ringing as I feel light headed.
When the ride started moving, I quickly grabbed hold of my chair and hoped that the ride ends soon. As the ferris wheel turned taking us higher and higher, my panic started bubbling close to the surface ready to break out any second. And when the cage-like thing that we were in started to rock back and forth, I immediately grabbed Jacob's hands. He turned to me with a huge grin but when he saw my present state his face turned into a look of worry.
"What's wrong Ash? Are you okay?" He asked while looking at me worriedly.
"I'm afraid of rides." I blurted out breathlessly.
"What? Why didn't you tell me?" He said with panic evident in his voice.
"I don't want.. to ruin your mood.. and our.. date." I said as I tried to normalize my breathing. Jacob shook his head at me and held my hand tightly.
"You should've told me so we could have avoided the rides Ash. I don't care about the rides. What's more important is you and your safety." He told me with guilt visible in his eyes.
Oh now I made him feel guilty, Great Ash. So much for a fun first date.
When the ride started to go down, I felt like I'm going to vomit my internal organs out. And the memory of the past started to put itself on replay inside my head. Then Jacob scooted closer to me as he wrapped his arms around my waist in hopes of making me feel somewhat safe. I wrapped my arms around his torso and held into his polo shirt like my life depended on it with my head resting under his chin. My eyes tightly shut.
After the longest 3 minutes of my life, the ride finally went to a stop. I tried to stand up and get the heck out of that thing but my knees won't let me. It felt like jelly and all my leg muscle won't cooperate. I tried standing up again but my knees buckled and thankfully Jacob caught me before completely falling. He guided me out the cart or whatever that thing was and we went to a bench. People turned to look at me wierdly because my face had gone oddly pale. Jacob told me that my hands were as cold as ice.
So what he did, he took both my hands in his and placed it near his mouth and started blowing hot breath in it, in hopes of warming me up. And thankfully, it worked.
When my hands started warming up, he then went into a nearby store and bought me a bottle of water. Then he took out his handkerchief to wipe the sweat on my forehead and neck.
"Thank you." I said nicely to Jacob after I finished drinking my water. I still feel breathless but not like when I was still inside that freaking death cart. Where I was desperate to breath in as much oxygen as I can but my lungs wasn't letting me.
He turned to me with a look of guilt. "I'm the reason you almost had a panic attack in there Ash, and you're thanking me?" He asked with a humorless chuckle as he continued wiping the sweat on my forehead.
"It's not your fault, Jacob." I told him. "I didn't tell you I was terrified of rides in the first place." I said trying to lighten the mood. "And besides, all these efforts you're making is more than enough for me to thank you." I admitted.
And I wasn't lying. It's true, that just the overall idea of him making effort for me to feel better was enough to thank him.
He smiled at me. "You're welcome Ash."
Jacob rubbed my back to completely calm me down and I can say that it was working. I told myself to do the inhale and exhale multiple times to have my breathing under control.
We sat there on the bench for short while until I was fully relaxed again.
"Okay, back to our date. What about we win that Cute Purple Teddy Bear?" I said after looking around. I turned to Jacob and gave him a huge grin while clasping my hands together excitedly.
I know I ruined our date right after the ferris wheel scene but I still want it to be great and an unforgettable for the both of us, especially for me since it's my first time. So why not enjoy it if we're already here, right?
He chuckled. "But are you sure you're okay though?" He asked still looking worried and unsure. But I replied him with a nod and a huge smile, telling him I'm okay.
"So, what do you say? Let's win that Teddy bear?" I asked with a hopeful smile.
Jacob chuckled again with a shake of his head while wearing a smile. "No. I will it for you."
I blushed at that.
"But first, we should eat because I know you're hungry." He said and right on cue, my cutie tummy growled. I turned to Jacob wide eyed and he burst out laughing. Obviously he heard that, hence the laughing.
"Hey It's not funny. Almost having a panic attack inside that stupid cart that causes death can drain you out. So don't laugh at my tummy." I said defensively before I pouted at him.
He instantly stopped laughing as he turned to give me an apologetic smile.
"About that. I'm so sorry again."
I smiled at him softly. "It's fine Jacob. Don't feel bad for yourself because it's my fault for not telling you." I told him truthfully and he sat there silently watching me. "So Anyways, moving on. The food, you were giving me the food, so let's go." I said as I pulled him up before he decided to say sorry again.
He chuckled and walked beside me while wrapping his muscular arm on my shoulder.
We went to a nearby restaurant and quickly went to where the hostess told us to sit. The waiter came and took our drinks and food orders. After a few minutes the waiter came back with our drinks and told us that our orders will be served after 15 minutes. Jacob and I had a casual conversation going on. Just getting to know each other and also knowing each other's likes and dislikes, those sort of things.
Jacob told me he likes cooking, in which we are the same. He likes to work out in the gym, which is also pretty obvious. He also likes to play guitar as a pass time. And he also loves to play sports, just like soccer and I wasn't surprized. I mean duh, he's in the school's soccer team.
Then I told him the things that I liked and disliked until our food was served. We had a conversation running while also enjoying the food that was honestly good in my opinion. After we finished eating, we sat there with satisfied tummies.
Jacob paid our food, which I tried to convince that it's my turn to pay, since he already paid for the entrance and all that. But he only refused and said that it's his 'Duty' to pay for everything. Like I said, he's too persistent.
So we walked back inside the carnival. We showed our Passes that the staff gave us before we left in order for us to be able to enter again. Once we were both inside, I dragged Jacob towards the booth where the prize was the huge purple teady bear.
When we got there, I quickly paid the guy before Jacob did. I turned to him and he was giving me a look, I stuck my tongue out at him and he chuckled while shaking his head. The guy asked who will go first and I raised my hands, then he told me the mechanics and blah blah before I start shooting the targets. When the guy gave me the go signal, I started aiming for the target on the top part as best as I could. But it was too hard to hit because of how small it's size and also the fact that was it was moving. When my turn was over, I pouted like a little toddler because I couldn't hit that pesky target. The guy gave me a small key chain as a reward for hitting an easier target on the bottom part.
Well atleast I got one.
It was Jacob's turn. He suddenly leaned towards me as he whisper something into my ears.
"I will get that teddy bear for you Ash, I promise." He said huskily and I shivered in response.
I nodded my head in reply.
After he pulled away, he winked at me. And the usual, I blushed. Then Jacob pulled his sleeves up higher on his elbows then positioned himself ready to shoot the targets. When the guy gave him the go, Jacob started shooting the targets on the bottom first and knocked each and every one of it with ease. Then he went for the top target and I can't help but cross my fingers and bite my bottom lip, hoping he can shoot that stupid target down. When Jacob had two plastic pellets left on his gun, he stopped and focused on the freaking target that won't budge.
It looks like he's studying the target's movement so he knows where to shoot. His pointer finger placed on the trigger, ready to shoot at any second. Then suddenly, Jacob used his last two pellets to shoot the target and he knocked it down. My eyes went wide with my mouth hanging open.
How did he do that? I can't even shoot those on the bottom part for my own good and here he is, shooting the top target like it was nothing.
Okay now I'm impressed.
Then the guy handed Jacob the purple teddy bear and I was in awe just by looking at it.
OH MY GOD! IT'S SERIOUSLY SO FLUFFY, I THINK I'M GONNA DIE.
Jacob was wearing a smug smile as he held the teddy bear. I beamed brightly at him and he winked at me in response. Then he handed me the teddy bear, I took it and burried my face into it.
Oh My Freaking Goodness, it's so comfy, and soft, and very, very fluffy.
I looked up at Jacob and saw him watching me with a smile on his face.
"Thank you Jacob" I told him. "For this." I said as I gave the teddy bear a kiss.
He stepped closer to me. "I told you I will get it for you." He whispered as he leaned to my ears, and I had to hold a shiver from coming out.
After that, he pulled away and did something I didn't expect. He kissed me on the cheek.
Though it was subtle, I still can feel my face heating up. He then smiled at me with a gentle look in his eyes. And the only thing that I was capable of doing at that moment was to smile back.
I know it was just on the cheek, but good lord. I can't believe he kissed me on the cheek. On our first date. Oh my heart, it's gushing out purple blood. Help!
He pulled me towards another booth and this time he paid before I can protest.
The whole time, all we did was go to booths after booths and sometimes go to a stand that sells food and snacks. I also felt bad everytime Jacob would take a glance towards a ride and how he would shake his head before he pulls me towards a booth. I know, even without him saying it out loud, that he really wants to try the rides. It's because of this stupid fear of rides that holds me back. But I know it's not just a simple fear. I feared those rides because of what happened when I was still a kid. It was a horrible day for that caused me to have nightmares everytime. And I just can't force myself to man up and face it.
Now we're sitting here on a bench with two pairs of tired feet after walking and standing for about 2 hours. It was fun even after what had happened in the ferris wheel. And I thank Jacob for making me enjoy this date with him.
When I saw that it was almost 9:05 in the evening, I turned to Jacob. But when I saw him staring at the ferris wheel again, I felt utterly guilty.
I sighed. "Do you wanna go on that one before we leave?" I asked, making him turn towards me with questioning look.
"The what?" He asked.
"The ferris wheel."
He frowned. "No."
I smiled before I stood and pulled him up.
"Wait, what are you doing?" He asked after I pulled him towards the said ride.
I turned to him. "We're going on the ferris wheel again." I stated.
He frowned again. "But I thought you're scared of it?"
"I am." I said. "But I'd like to try it again. Besides, you're there so I'm sure we'll be fine."
And with that, I didn't give him a chance to protest as I told the guy on guard we wanna go for another round on the ferris wheel.
Once we're inside, I didn't let go of his hand. I'm scared but I'd like to give this a try.
Jacob scooted closer to me as he wrapped his arms around my waist.
"You didn't have to do this." He said.
"I know." I paused as I took a deep breath. "But I want to."
And with that, the ride started moving as we went higher and higher.
Once we were at the top, Jacob suddenly spoke.
"Are you okay?" He asked with his face close to mine.
I nodded my head. "Yeah. I'm okay." I assured him.
"Good. And you're doing great by the way. I know it's not easy to face your fears but you did. I'm proud of you." He encouraged which made me blush and forget about the current situation.
"Thank you."
He held my waist tighter. "You're welcome."
As the ride went to a halt, Jacob and I stepped out and decided it's time to go home since it was already 9:16 in the evening.
Once we were out into the parking lot, Jacob unlocked the car and went to grab the passenger handle the same time as I did. I looked at him with raised brows and saw that he was doing the same. I chuckled at him as I told him that I can open the door myself. He gave me a 'really' look and pointed at the things I was carrying.
Well, thanks to him, I'm carrying a bunch of prizes. He was just too good at every booth we go that we leave with a prize in hand. My all time favorite was the Teddy bear of course, next was the Panda hoodie, next was the T-shirt with a 'Music runs in my blood' printed on it, and many more. I think he won a total of 8 prizes while I won 3.
Well, atleast I tried.
After pouting at Jacob, he opened the passenger door for me and I hopped in. He walked around and I saw a smile that never left his face. Then he hopped into the driver's seat and buckled himself up and I did the same. After that he started the car and manouvered out the Carnival's parking space and drove into the main road. He turned the volume of the radio up and I was glad it was no longer playing those Taylor Swift songs. I'm not a hater nor a fan of Taylor Swift, though I do appreciate her music, but sometimes it gets a little annoying and cliché for me, just in my opinion.
The drive home was done in a comfortable silence with the radio giving us nice music in the background. I was so comfy on my seat that I decided to close my eyes for a while, after all, it's almost an hour drive back home so why not take a short nap.
When I felt someone shaking me, I opened my sleepy eyes. I sat up on my seat and looked around and found out we're in my neighourhood.
"Wakey, wakey." Jacob said softly and I gave him a sleepy smile.
I looked out of my window and saw my house with only the light above the front door open, so I guess most of them are already asleep except Papa, who I think is waiting for me in the living room. I took a glance at the window and saw light flickering meaning the TV is on, which also means Papa's inside waiting for me. I looked at the time in the car's dashboard and saw it was already 9:55.
"You slept all the way here Ash. I'm sorry if I tired you out so much." He said apologetically. I shook my head at him and gave him a smile.
"Stop apologizing Jacob. Yes I'm tired but I also had so much fun on my first date. I hope you had fun too." I told him honestly with a beaming smile. I really did enjoy it, to be honest.
He chuckled deeply. "Of course I enjoyed it. Just spending time with you is enough for me to be happy, so thank you." He said in a serious voice while holding my cheek in his warm hand.
"Uhm, y-your welcome." I suttered nervously but still giving him a small smile.
Why is he cupping my cheek? Is he..
Then he leaned closer to my face and right then and there I knew he's going to do what I think he's going to do.
"Uh J-Jacob." I said nicely even though I was utterly nervous in attempt to stop him from kissing me. He stopped with his nose touching mine before he stopped and stare at my eyes. After realizing what he almost did, he immediatly pulled away.
"F**k" he cussed. "I'm so sorry Ash. I don't know what came over my head to do that." He apologized again as he averted his gaze away from me.
I shook my head.
"I-It's fine Jacob." I said feeling awkward about what almost happened. "But it was a fun night with you though, so thanks again." I said, trying to rid the awkward atmosphere we were in.
Jacob turned to me then smiled. "You're welcome Ash." He said nicely.
I nodded. "So uhm, I should go now. Papa must be waiting for me inside." I told him while gathering the prizes before I took another glance at the clock on the dashboard, it said 9:57.
"Yeah, I don't want you getting into trouble with you're dad because of me." He said with a beaming smile this time. I chuckled at him and reached for the door handle.
But before opening it, I quickly gave Jacob a kiss on the cheek before quickly stepping out of the car completely with the prizes in my hands. The kiss on the cheek I can give, but on the lips, not yet.
I don't know. I just can't.
I turned back and waved the little teddy bear at him. I really can't see him though because his car's windows were tinted. Walking towards the door, I turned back to see if he was still there. He was just driving out of the curb and out of the sleeping neighbourhood.
Once he was out of sight, I fetched my keys out of my side pocket and opened the front door. I went inside and closed the door using my feet slowly. When I was inside, I went to the living room and saw Papa watching a show on the TV. He turned to me and smiled, which means I'm just on time.
"I'm glad you came home in time Ash. By the way, where did you get all of that." Papa asked and pointed at the things I was holding.
"Oh these, my friends gave it to me after they won it from the booths. And uhm, we went to a carnival in the nearby town. It's the opening of their yearly musikahan festival (Music Festival)." I told Papa with a huge smile, even though I just lied to him about the prizes.
He nodded understandingly and told me to go to bed because Ashley Rose will come pick me up at 10 in the morning the next day. After that, I went up to my bedroom and placed the prizes on my bed and dropped my tired body next to it.
Then my mind went back to our date. My first date ever, and I freaking enjoyed it because Jacob was so awesome. He was so nice, caring, thoughtful, and overall, such a sweet guy. There was never a dull moment in our date, well except the ferris wheel part, but other than that, it was fun and memorable.
Then my mind went back to Jacob almost kissing me on the lips. It was so close, I can already feel his hot breath fanning over my lips with our nose already touching. Only centimeters left as a distance between his lips and mine, just that close. But I stopped him before he could've closed the small gap. It's not that I don't want to kiss him, it's just, I'm not ready for that and I think it's too early for me to give him my first kiss. It's our first date and it should be spent to things like getting to know each other and to have fun, not in an intimate way but fun as in, enjoying each other's company and just hang out. But I guess it's just me being too conservative, although I know nothing is wrong with it, I'm not going to change myself for anyone.
After getting lost in my own thoughts, I stood up from my bed and started preparing for bed. I took out my spongebob Pajamas before I went to the bathroom to have a quick shower.
Once I was done, I dried myself off and wore my pajamas then brushed my teeth. After that, I went back to my room quietly and closed the door slowly. I grabbed the prizes from my bed and placed them on my desk. Then I dropped onto my comfy bed and pulled the covers up to my chest before I let sleep take me to my personal happy wonderland.
I smiled to myself.
This day will be in my most enjoyable list, that's for sure.