The Other Side

CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR | Brave

I looked at him as a friend until I realized I loved him.

K A T A L I N A    N A I

"I want you to live the college life, Kylo don't worry." I finally said, looking at the stars that stare back at us. "I'll be a few hours away but don't let that stop you."

Kylo and I had been arguing about what we would do and what we wouldn't. Basically controlling everything; no girls— no guys, no females over at dorms, etc.

You name it. To be honest Kylo was the one bringing everything up and I just sat there and listened.

But afterwards I told him. What I said earlier.

Because we're entering a new chapter in our lives.

The reality outside of this house. The world.

"Do you guys believe that once people pass that they turn into stars and look back at us?" Azariah questions as he leans on Athena's shoulder and not the other way around.

He earns a laugh from Kylo and I. "Riah I don't know? I really don't know." Kylo's laugh coming out as a cry.

I bring myself closer to Kylo a try in gaining warmth. "Someone's eager?" He rests his chin on top of my head.

"You wish, it's just fucking freezing."

He hums in responce.

This summer trip wasn't a trip I expected at all. Yet I'm glad it happened or else we wouldn't be where we are today.

A few other people had come to star gaze, so a few walk in past us and find a spot on the beach. A old couple their hands interwoven. Some locals who don't even bring out a blanket to sit on and sit straight on the sand.

"How are you?" I say, adding some warmth into my tone.

"Happy that you're here stuck to me like a koala, you?"

"Me too."

"Lina, we need an us time." Athena whines. "It's been awhile."

I laugh and look over Kylo. "Yes Thena, we will. A movie night too?"

"Tonight, Lina." She points.

Sometimes I wonder. What would've happened if I had chosen BH instead of Grey. But I really can't imagine right now because summer hasn't ended and the season has yet then what six days left before it changes?

I want to see Kylo everyday. But I had to do what was best for me and yeah I'll stop haha. I've talked too much about this.

It's just been running on my mind.

My phone buzzes next to my thigh. I pick it up the blue hue lighting my face.

Kylo looks over my shoulder. "Who is it?"

"My mom." I haven't spoken to her in awhile, I mean I probably have I just don't remember.

"Answer her."

I answer the FaceTime and hold the phone to position it so that she can see all of us. "Hey mom!"

"Hey my love! Oh my God!" She says, excitement rushing in waves from her tone. "Athena my dear I miss you so much!"

"Thanks mom I'm here too." I joke.

She rolls her eyes and reassures me that she loves me too.

"Athena is that your boyfriend?"

"Yes it is, haha. Shocking I know."

"Both of my girls have a boyfriend now? That is.... wow."

All of us laugh. "Don't worry Mrs. Nai. I am taking great care of Katalina."