-Riele's POV-
Strolling along the streets on my way back home, my mind was consumed with thoughts of crafting the perfect costume for Halloween that would suit me.
Something different, and somewhat scary.
Somehow, it's a lot to ponder on especially when it's just four days away. It always seems to catch me unaware.
Damn Jordan that couldn't remind me sooner.
Letting out a sigh, I found myself gazing skyward, where fluffy white clouds drifted lazily. It's like it called me to look even without my realization.
However, my daze was interrupted by the sudden whizz of a car speeding by on rubber tires. Every slight movement of people and things always seems to evoke a casual curiosity in me.
As I continued along the sidewalk, a steady stream of unfamiliar faces passed me by, each lost in their own world. The only constants were the shopkeepers, steadfastly manning their stores, striving to make ends meet.
Once again, my focus was drawn back to the road as another car zoomed past, its tires humming against the smooth, black asphalt.
A heavy sigh escaped my lips as I trudged along the familiar path home, the weight of loneliness settling upon my shoulders.
Another evening awaited me, devoid of any warm welcome or familial presence, all in the name of my parents going out for business.
"RIELE!"
My name echoed through the air, jolting me from my thoughts. I turned on my heel to find the source of the interruption, my annoyance evident as I laid eyes on the familiar figure.
"What is it, Jules? Have you been following me?" I questioned, my brow furrowing at the notion of being followed by someone I had little patience for.
"I just needed to speak with you," she replied, her tone tinged with impatience.
My brow raised as I awaited her explanation. "About what?"
"You know what, Riele," she snapped rudely, her frustration palpable.
I'm not happy with her tone, but I'll play along.
"I'm not sure I follow, Jules. Could you enlighten me?" I said in pretense.
An exasperated sigh escaped her lips as she met my gaze with intensity. "Cut the act, Riele. I know you're aware of what I'm referring to. You're playing me for a fool!"
I shook my head at the stupid girl in front of me. "You'll have to be more specific, Jules. I'm not in the habit of indulging wild accusations."
With a resigned sigh, she relented. "I need the video. Please, just hand it over."
I couldn't help but scoff at her audacity, eyeing her incredulously. Here she was, attempting to assert authority over me as if she held all the cards. Bad move, girl.
"And why, pray tell, should I give you the video?" I retorted, my disbelief plain on my face.
"It'll ruin me, Riele. It'll ruin everything about me," she pleaded, desperation seeping into her words.
I nodded, acknowledging the truth in her statement. She was the epitome of popularity at school, with boys trailing after her every move like lovesick puppies.
I shook my head. Nah. The boys won't like her anymore once they find out her little dirty secret.
As a streetcar rumbled past, its wheels clattering against the tracks, but I maintained my gaze.
"Why should I care if your reputation is tarnished, Jules? I don't get it. It's of no consequence to me," I declared, my indifference clear in my tone.
She nodded, resignation coloring her features. "Yeah, I suppose I forgot that you only look out for yourself," she conceded, a note of bitterness tainting her words as she glared at me.
I couldn't help but smile at her feeble attempts to assert herself in the face of my dominance.
Right now, to me, she was like a beautiful painting in a shattered frame, desperately trying to conceal her flaws from the world.
"Since you're well aware of my indifference, then you must also understand that I'll be using this video as leverage against you," I stated matter-of-factly. "And sooner rather than later, I'll begin to leverage it for my own gain."
She averted her gaze, a clear indication of her unease. "I suppose that's to be expected," she acknowledged reluctantly.
"Good. So, you'll comply with my demands," I asserted, ensuring she understood the terms of our agreement.
She met my gaze once more, resignation evident in her eyes. "I don't believe I have much of a choice, Riele," she admitted defeat.
I nodded in satisfaction. "Excellent. As long as you do as I say, your secret remains safe," I assured her, turning my attention to a passing streetcar.
"Fine," she relented, her tone defeated, making me turn to her. "I'll do whatever you want, Riele. But just remember, karma has a way of catching up to you."
I couldn't help but smirk at her warning. "Well, sadly, yours is already here."