...Having an extraordinary ability is truly amazing....

The ability to fly,

to make things move,

to teleport yourself...

But it is really exhausting when this ability is all about seeing someone's spirit and being able to have a conversation with it. They are ghosts...actually... And, once they figure out that you can to see or hear them; believe me, they will not stop from bothering you.

So...

Being born with such ability is such a bad luck. I usually used to ignore every single ghost I encounter, and just act natural.

Why?

I know you already know the reason. My life is like a common story afterall. There is nothing to expect. There is nothing interesting at all. So, I advice you to just live and observe someone else's life.

.

..

...

..

.

But, why?

Why are you still here?

Do you really want to know my exact reason?

Are you curious whether we are thinking of the same thing?

If it is a "yes", then it is boring.

Or, if not?

What will you do next?

Will you keep going?

Or stop at the beginning?

If you will choose the latter, then that is my ultimate reason.

....I don't want to be rejected by the people around me upon knowing this...my secret...

Do you think it is common? This situation is quite common isn't it? But, you know...people are just making an excuse for themselves.

An excuse to manipulate,

An excuse not to hesitate,

An excuse to bully,

An excuse to show superiority...

Whether my situation is common or not, what people really want, is someone they can use to satisfy their pleasure.

And you...

Will you do the same thing?

Are you the same as them?

If "yes", then…

You must be laughing at me right now...

Calling me stupid...

Giving me insulting names...

Well, then...

I guess I must thank you.

Thank you for reaching this level.

It is now up to you whether you're going to stay or live.

I am just nothing at all.

So, I don't care...

*****

Sofia's P.O.V.

"If only I am as tough as this in real life."

I closed my diary in a hurry and left the house.

I am on my way to my new school as a transfer student in third year college. I am so relieve that those unusual things around me is not annoying. Yes, not alarming at all!

As I reach my classroom and enter...

"Good morning, class!" The teacher glances at each of her students as she greets them.

The whole class greets her in unison and after that she proceeds with the announcement.

"Well, before we start our class, I'd like you to meet your new classmate, Ms. Cross."

I enter as she orders me to get inside.

As I stand in front of everybody, my new teacher (who is actually my mom's sister and the only one who knew my secret) asks me to introduce myself.

"Good morning..."

I greeted them nervously and proceeded, "…My…my name is Sophia Claudine Cross…"

I gulped as I look at each of them timidly as if I am in an interview, " Nice to meet you all…"

"Don't be shy…," the guy at the back seat interrupted as he smiles brightly at me.

I blush in embarrassment, so I look away from him.

"Enough!" my aunt said as she glares at the guy.

"Let's see… Alright… I have no choice. I can just let you sit there," she pointed at the seat right beside the window.

"Just sit over there next to that naughty boy..."

I nodded and walked towards the assigned seat.

"Hey, Tristan! Don't be such a headache to the new student, understand?"

She said that while looking at the guy who's seat is on my right. The same guy who interrupted during my self-introduction.

"Alright…"

The guy answered half-heartedly before looking away from her. "I mean..." he said as he turns to look at me smiling, "I will try my best..."

The teacher ignored him and paid her attention towards the guy sitting on the front seat, the one in front of mine.

"Nathaniel?"

"Hm?" he responded coldly.

"Do me a favor..." She pause for a moment and continued, "You are in charge of our transferree. Make sure that you will always by her side..."

The students begin to whisper to each other, confuse on what our teacher said until she interrupts them.

"Silence..." She glances at the guy named Nathaniel, " So, what is your reply?"

Instead of answering, he turns around and looks at me for about a minute. Although it doesn't take a minute, I still feel that it took that long. He looks back at my aunt, "Ok as you wish..."

My aunt smiles with satisfaction, "Okay. Let's start the class..."

I think it is a good beginning.

Especially for someone like me...

When there's nothing but living people around me...

It sounds weird, but I am serious...

*****

After class...

I am on my way home when...

"Hey, transferee! Sofia!"

I stop walking and turn around to look at whoever is calling my name. "Tristan?"

He is catching his breath when he reached me, "Sofia! You're Sofia, right?"

I am speechless as he stands close to me. It's uncomfortable to see him standing closely lifting his head to face mine.

He has a smooth brown hair, and a beautiful almond-shaped brown eyes. And, ...he is...very tall. My height only reaches his shoulder.

In addition, there is no need to deny that he is handsome. Every girl he will meet will definitely fall for his appearance.

But...not me... Even if there's a chance that I'll do, I do believe that rejection will come first before acceptance.

Or, there will be no acceptance at all.

I push away all the unneccesary thoughts and response, "Yes, it is me. And, you are Tr..."

"Tristan!" he cut-off. "Tristan Auburne."

He smiled innocently.

"Oh...okay... Nice to meet you..."

After saying that, I left him and continued walking. But, I sensed that he is following me. There's no need for me to check and clarify it. I even heard him said...

"Hey! Wait. I want to walk with you."

Tristan walks in front of me which makes me stop from walking. He looks directly to my eyes.

"You're so cute..."

The guy said that before smiling.

I am astounded upon hearing him, so I ask curiously, "What do you mean...?"

"And your voice, it's cute too..." That's what he replied before chuckling. He completely ignored my question.

"I want to heat it more often..." he added.

What is wrong with this guy?

"Okay... If you say so..."

After saying that, I started to walk again. He laughs behind me, but I didn't dare to stop. He is suspicious afterall.

"That's all you can say, Sofia?"

*****

Tristan just keep on talking while we are walking, and all I ever do is listen to him with less response.

Honestly, I am glad to know that there will be a person who wants to be with me so his nossiness is not that annoying.

I stop from walking and look at him before smiling, "Tristan..."

"Yes?" he asked as if he was startled at my sudden approach.

"In which way do you live?" I asked while pointing at the two seperate path.

He sighed before answering in a disappointed manner, "To the right... How about you?"

"Okay... Mine is on the left. Thank you for accompanying me." I smiled at him and proceeded, "You can go now."

He stared at me, "Do you want me to escort you?"

I purse my lips before answering, "No, thanks..."

*****

Meanwhile...

A group of girls pass by Nathaniel talking about Tristan and the transfer student.

"Urgh!!! I can't believe this! It looks like Tristan is interested in that girl..." the long-haired girl said in irritation.

The other one with blond hair agrees while frowning, "I just can't imagine that he'll be the one to ask her about walking together. What about me? Right, Ava?"

The long-haired girl, Ava, raises an eyebrow and aks, "What do you mean by that, Bree?!"

The blond haired girl smiles nervously before responding, "Well...I mean..how about us?!"

The girl with a bob haircut gave them an evil grin before interrupting, "Girls... You know what happens to people like her in dramas, right?"

Bree smiles brightly, "Oh, I know! Usually the bullies will say ...looks like someone must learn her lesson... Am I correct, Chloe?"

Ava looks sharply at Bree, "Are you saying that we're bullies? The bullies in dramas today doesn't have a good ending!"

"Chill..." Chloe interrupted. " First, we are not bullies, we are just taking back what is supposed to be ours. Second, we are not a fool like those characters in dramas. Lastly, I am pretty sure that Tristan is just playing around that girl."

Ava and Bree nods upon getting Chloe's point.

"Let's talk about it next time."

Suddenly, they are blocked by Nathaniel.

"Oh..It's Nathaniel... Oh my...so perfect..." Chloe whispered to herself.

Ava coughs covering her nervousness, "What can I do... I mean... What can we do for you?"

"I heard you talking about Tristan and the girl. Do you know where they are?" Nathaniel asked them seriously.

"Not really. We just have a hunch that he escorted that girl to her house."

"Okay..." That's the only thing he said before walking way.

"Don't tell me... He is also interested in that girl..." Bree said while shaking her head.

Chloes sighed and muttered under her breath, "I hope that's not true."

"I think it's a big NO... You know the rumors about him, right? There's no way that he would possibly fell for that girl when he can't move on from his past," Ava explained.

*****

Tristan's P.O.V.

It is been so boring...

There is bothing new here.

Discuss.

Breaktime.

Discuss.

Lunch.

Discuss.

Dismissal.

I wish there's something I can pay attention with...

"I'd like you to meet your new classmate, Ms. Cross."

I saw a cute girl entered the classroom. She had a long waist-level black hair and an average looking eyes.

Cute, but not pretty enough to entertain me.

Oh! Haha! And, she's not tall! Pretty small, indeed.

After introducing herself, "Don't be shy..."

I gave her a smile when she laid her eyes on me. She quickly looked away which makes me laugh internally.

That Sofia is the same as the other girls. Let's see what she will do when facing me...

"Enough!" Mrs. Manville interrupted.

As usual, I am opposed by my beloved teacher. Suddenly, she said something very amusing.

"Just sit over there. Next to that naughty boy..."

Naughty boy?

Mrs. Manville do not spoil my first day with the new girl.

Anyway, it's fine with me as long as she sits beside me. I can finally have something new to spend with...

The girl obeyed our teacher and walked timidly. It makes me laugh internally wondering whether she is just acting or not.

"Hey, Tristan! Do not...."

Blah blah blah.

I am good. I am good. Haha!

Suddenly, I heard her ask Nathaniel about being in-charge with the new girl. Just like the whole class, I was also startled on what she said. Why does she need to be accompanied? Is she a baby who needs a baby sitter?

And...mostly...why Nathaniel?! Why not me?

Disappointing. I really want to know this girl. Why does she have a special treatment?

"Silence."

I looked at Nathaniel and saw him staring at Sofia. Without a single thought, he obeyed.

*****

After class...

I am on my way home when I see Sofia walking in the hallway. Great! Fate is on my side.

I called her attention which made her stop from walking. She turned around to look at my direction.

"Sofia. You're Sofia, right?"

Of course, she is. I introduced myself.

"....Nice to meet you."

She left me behind. Seriously? What on earth is... There are some girls who did the same thing to me... Ignoring me at the beginning, but confessing that they like me in the end. It seems like you're of the same kind. Let's see on how long you can put up with that act.

"Hey! Wait. I want to walk with you."

I ran after her, but she suddenly stopped from walking. She looked at me over her shoulders, then nodded.

As expected.

Sofia looked away and continued walking without saying anything.

Yes, ignore me. Let's see who will give in first.

I walk in front of her completely blockinf her way. Let us first have an eye-to-eye contact.

She stopped from walking...

"You're cute..."

"What do you mean?"

"And your voice is cute too!'

I chuckled and proceeded, "I wanna hear it more often."

"Okay, if you say so..."

After saying that, she walked away.

"That's all you can say?"

I tried to be talkative towards her. She is a boring person to begin with because she is not saying anything at all. Nathaniel and her will be a perfect match. Let's say...I did a huge favor for Nathaniel today. Haha!

Anyway, if I didn't hear her talk in class earlier, I will assume that she is mute.

"Tristan..."

Sofia stopped and gave me a warm smile. That's the first time she smiled directly at me. Cute, but not charming enough.

"Why?"

"In which way do you live?"

I sighed and answered her with a disappointed tone. I thought I already pulled her out of her disguise.

She told me that she will take the other path. " Thanks for accompanying me. You can go now."

"Do you want me to escort you?"

"No, thanks."

After saying that, she left.

Well...

*****

Nathaniel's P.O.V.

While staring blankly outside that window, I heard someone called me. I looked at her and saw that it's our teacher.

"Hm?"

I heard her asking me for a favor which surprised and confused everyone including me.

Always by her side?

Who? The transferee?

"Silence."

I turned to look at the girl. I guess I can handle it. Her presence doesn't annoy me.

"Ok. As you wish."

*****

After class...

I quickly walk towards the Teachers' Office.

"Excuse me."

"Yes?"

"About the transferee," I paused for a moment, then proceeded, "Why does she need a bodyguard?"

Mrs. Manville gave me a small smile, "Does it feel like I gave you a burden?"

"No. It's just... I can't do the job properly without knowing the real purpose." I looked down uninterested. "I don't want to waste my time to someone unworthy."

Mrs. Manville sighed before answering, "Sofia... She is often bullied in her former school. That is the reason why I want you to look after her. I want to let her know that here, she is always safe. There will be no more harm...no more pain..."

I averted my eyes, " Okay... Thank you gor explaining."

I left after excusing myself.

Bullied... It is not obvious when she faced us this morning. She is not scared of people at all. Psychologically speaking, those people who experienced bullying tend to isolate themselves. Most of them will choose to avoid the people around them because they are afraid to experience being betrayed and hurt once again.

I walk outside looking for the transferee but I can't find her. Suddenly, a group of three girls passes by. They are also my classmate who happens to talk about the transferee and...

"...I can't believe this! It looks like Tristan is interested in that girl!"

"...can't imagine that he'll be the one to ask her about walking together... What..."

Tristan...He is obviously targeting the transferee.

I can't let that happen. I need to protect her as payment for Mrs. Manville's kindness to me. He helped me when...

"I heard you talking about Tristan and..."

I interrogated them. After getting the answer I need, I left. I have no choice but to go home. I don't know what Tristan is planning, but I will make sure that he will no longer be able to do what he wants to that girl.

Sofia's P.O.V.

The next day...

As I entered the classroom, most of my classmates are looking at me secretly. They are muttering something to each other when...

"Good morning!"

Tristan entered the room happily and greeted everyone. He noticed me as I stand near the whiteboard. That guy walks towards me showing off a friendly aura, "Ohh... Good morning! How's your day last time?" He smiled at me as he move closer lowering his head to reach mine.

Everyone looks startled when I took a glance at them. They are all looking at the two of us, so I quickly turn away from him and walk towards my seat.

Suddenly, I saw Nathaniel, the guy my aunt asked to look for me, enters the room. He looks at the girl who is talking with her friends and walks towards her. He leans and whispers something.

*****

Nathaniel's P.O.V.

"How pathetic... That girl really deserves to be punished. She's getting on my nerves!" Ava whispered.

The other girls agreed and told her their opinion.

As I enter the room and hear Sofia's name in those girls' conversation, I decided to walk towards them.

"You..."

The girl looks at me in surprise. I lean towards her to whisper, "Don't do anything reckless. If something bad happens to the transferee, you will never know what I can do to deal with you."

*****

Sofia's P.O.V.

It's been a peaceful day except on what happened earlier. It's odd. If only that guy knows my creepy ability, then he'll definitely keep himself away from me.

After class...

Once again, at the very exact moment...

Someone familiar called my name...

"Sofia!"

I turn around and see Tristan running after me.

"It's you, Tristan."

"The one and only!"

He said that happily and smiled. I was surprised when he caressed my bangs and placed it behind my ears.

"Well..Sofia... I just..."

"Hey..."

Tristan wasn't able to finish his sentence when someone called out from behind. I look over the person who interrupted our conversation and see Nathaniel walking after us.

"It's you, Mr. Perfect." Tristan teased.

Mr. Perfect. What an awkward...label...

Nathaniel ignores him and looks at me. I just stare at him in confusion.

"I know you knew that our teacher asked me to look after you, so I will start fulfilling my duty today."

Nathaniel stared at me coldly. He walks towards me but stops because of Tristan interruption, "Hey, Nathaniel! Let me handle this task for you."

He stares at Tristan, "Mind your own business..."

Then, looks at me, "Let's go."

I panic when Nathaniel suddenly grabbed my hand. He holds my hand tightly as we walk away slowly leaving Tristan behind.

"I'm Nathaniel McKnight. You can call me Nathan."

He introduced himself without looking at me.

"I am Sofia. Nice to meet you."

*****

I'm nervous. He...he's scary... Not physically because he also has a pleasant appearance. He has a jet-black hair, with bangs almost covering a small portion of his face. His round, but slightly slit eyes. A little smaller than Tristan, but still, taller than me.

What's wrong with me?

Why am I not growing up? uh...taller?

Compared to other girls, my height is...nothing.

"So, how is it?"

Nathaniel asked seriously breaking the silence.

I farrow my eyebrows showing my confusing towards his sudden question, "What?"

Without bothering to look at me, he asks, "How is it? Dating with the heartrob?"

Heartrob?

Does he mean...

Oh, crap... I entertain a new-born problem to myself.

"You mean...Tristan? No. It is a misunderstanding. Perhaps, we are not dating. Promise!" I stared directly in his eyes while saying that to show my sincerity.

Nathan stared in return. " Okay..."

He looks away, "But aren't you interested in him just like the other girls?"

It feels like I am under investigation.

"To be honest, yes. I am just glad that he approached me. I had a great time listening to him. But, there's nothing more than that."

He remained silent.

The silence between us makes me feel uncomfortable, but then, he starts to ask me again...

"You don't know anything about him, don't you? You could've ask anyone about him to make yourself aware of everything."

"Yes, but does it matter? My judgment doesn't rely on others. Whether I know him or not, I don't care.

I...don't expect anything at all."

His eyes widened upon hearing my response. He suddenly looks at me sadly, " I thought you also..."

He didn't finish his words. "Nevermind. What's important now is that you need to be aware of this. Those girls who love chasing him envies you. When you got here, Tristan started to put an interest to you. So, please... Be careful..."

Will they...bully me...

But then, I suddenly feel my heart beat quicker than usual.

He is concerned about me...

I could also feel my cheeks burning in embarassment.

No. No. He said that because his task is to look after me.

I quickly push away my thoughts so that I can respond to him calmly, "If that's the case, If you or I happen to meet them, let's say that I will stay away from him. I will ignore him just like what they wanted..."

"It's not that easy..."

"Then, I will just tell Tristan about my secret. He will stay away from me because of that."

He stops from walking and looks at me curiously, "What?"

Oh! My...my tongue slipped!

"I...I...mean.. Don't mind it."

"Ok..."

He looks away and changes the subject, "Anyway, I hope you understand why I must always stay by your side during school days. It's much better to make things clear. I only do this because of Mrs. Manville, not you. I hope you won't make a problem in the future."

"Yes...Yes... Of course, I know the truth."

We continued walking...when...

"Woah! Thank, God! Cinnamon Breads!!!"

Nathaniel farrows his eyebrows while looking at me, I gave him a warm smile in return. "Wait for me, huh? I will buy some bread."

I walk away from him, but didn't notice the motorcycle heading to my direction. My whole body froze when I saw it rushing towards me. The only thing I can do is close my eyes firmly while waiting for it to hit me.

But, someone grabbed my arm and pulled me...

It is Nathan.

He pulled me. I bump to him, then he hugs me to keep me from falling. He looks at me while embracing me gently.

"Are you okay?" He asked worriedly with a trembling voice.

I slowly lift my head to look at him and answer, "Ye..yes... I'm okay. Thank you, Nathan."

Upon realizing our situation, he quickly releases me and looks away, "Sorry. I..."

"No." I cut him off while shaking my head. "It's alright. Thank you. I must thank you instead."

Nathan didn't look at me.

"Ok. But, there's no need to thank me. I did it to protect you."

His words make me uncomfortable. I don't know how to react so I just mutter another thanks and leave.

After few moments, I went back holding two boxes of cinnamon bread.

I lend him one of the boxes, "Here take this..."

"Sorry, I live alone. I won't be able to finish this later on my own," he said coldly.

I pout and pull him towards the nearby bench. I push him to sit and take the box from him. I open it, use a tissue to get a cinnamon bread then put it against his lips.

"Please? Let's eat some of it now. Later at night when you get hungry, then you can eat the rest as midnight snack."

I smiled at him widely, "Give it a taste! It's my favorite."

"O-okay..." He stares at the cinnamon bread pointed on his mouth and takes it from my hand.

I watch him as he takes a bite.

"That's cute..." I laugh shyly.

"What's cute?"

"You...While you're eating the bread. It's great, right?"

I gave him a sweet smile.

Nathan didn't say anything. He just looked away from me muttering his thanks.

After eating, he escorted me to my house.

I will just ignore the fact that he is cold towards me. Besides, I have to be with him. I am also the one who must do some adjustments.

"I wonder how happy to be happy to be with someone who will accept you," I mutter under my breath.

"Why?"

"It's because...Just..don't mind me," I stop from walking and face him. "Here's my house already. Thanks for spending time with me... I mean...for escorting me and saving my life earlier. Have a safe journey."

I smiled at him, but then I notice him blush. Maybe my eyes are tricking me. He waved his hand, and left.

*****

Nathaniel's P.O.V.

I was looking for Sofia when I spotted her on the front gate. Tristan is with her as well. I quickly walk towards them taking her from him and leaving him behind.

When we are far enough from our school, I casually introduced myself. She did the same.

I released her hand and began asking her random questions. These questions were all about Tristan.

Sofia answered them honesty. It seems like she gave me a satisfying answer though the way she thinks is simple for her age. She is old enough to know the difficulty of her situation. And, saying something intriguing out of the blue will lead her to discrimination.

A secret that will make Tristan stay away from her.

Whatever it is... I don't care at all.

".....cinnamon bread!"

Sofia excused herself and ran towards the shop. She suddenly stopped with fear shown in her face. I rapidly looked at the direction where she is looking at by instinct, and saw a motorcycle rushing towards her.

A memory flashed throught my mind...

"No..."

"Watch out!"

"Evangeline!"

Those memories made my body automatically ran towards Sofia. I went towards her as fast as I could, grabbed her arm, and pulled her towards me.

"Are you okay?"

I can't help it. My voice is trembling. I thought I was to late.

"Ye..yes... I'm okay. Thank you, Nathan."

My eyes widened when I realized that I am still holding her im my arms. I apologized, but she didn't accept it and left.

Sofia is still aiming for the bread she wants.

I hate to say this, but she is really a childish person. She almost got injured or the worst case scenario, died, earlier just because of that.

I shook my head starting to realize that I am wrong with my judgment. She is an annoying person.

After few moments, she went back holding two boxes of cinnamon bread.

Sofia lend me one of the boxes, "Here take this..."

"Sorry, I live alone. I won't be able to finish this later on my own."

She suddenly pulled me towards the nearby bench and took a sit. I didn't expect that she will act like this to someone she barely know.

She took a cinnamon bread then put it against my lips.

"Please? Let's eat some of it now. Later at night when you get hungry, then you can eat the rest as midnight snack."

I was taken aback by that time.

"Give it a taste! It's my favorite."

"O-okay..." I stared at the cinnamon bread pointed on my mouth and takes it from her hand.

"Cute..."

"What's cute?"

"You...While you're eating the bread. It's great, right?"

She gave me a sweet smile.

There's nothing I can say towards her. I just looked away from her muttering his thanks.

Sofia just keeps on smiling. She is the living example of a person who will force herself to be happy even if she is not.

Although that smile...feels similar...

"I wonder how happy to be happy to be with someone who will accept you."

Acceptance. Is that what she's looking for?

Why would the people around her before couldn't accept her?

I asked her frankly about it, but she didn't say anything about it.

*****

"I can't believe this. He took her away from me. I will never let this pass easily..."

*****

Sofia's P.O.V.

I just watched Nathan as he walked away.

Do I have to tell him the truth? But what if he rejects me? Will he use that as an excuse to get rid of someone like me?

I released a deep sigh when...

"Sofia."

I lift my head and see Tristan unexpectedly.

"It's me..."

I look at him and sigh in relief, "Thank goodness... I didn't expect to see you here, so I doubted at the beginning..."

Tristan chuckles and teases me, "I got here earlier than the both of you. And...if it's not me, do you think a ghost will come after you instead?"

To be honest...

You are right. I thought a ghost is just imitating your voice.

"Of course, not." I lied. "By the way, what are you doing here? How did you know that I live here?"

"I just want to visit you. I also know where you exactly live because I followed you when you're on your way home yesterday."

He explained before smirking, "May I come in as your guest?"

I shake my head in disapproval and explain, "No. My parents are not yet here right now. It is also not good if I let someone in. I bet you know what I mean."

He forms his lips into a thin line before speaking, "Are you saying that you can't trust me? But I am a good person."

Tristan leans his head closer to mine, and continues, "In that case, you have the freedom to hit me. If that's the only way to prove myself to you. Please...Do it..."

I pushed him away from me, " No... Why would you say that..." I sighed in defeat and added, "Just make sure... You won't tell anyone about this."

"Yes! Promise."

He smiled at me as his eyes sparkle with joy.

We entered my house and gestured him to have a seat on the living room.

Tristan looked around and said, "It's nice here. Peaceful ad quiet."

He suddenly laid his eyes on me and asked, "Where are they? Your parents?"

"They're outside the country."

"Oh..." Tristan inhaled deeply. "How about your siblings? Where are they?"

"I don't have any brothers or sisters." I look at him and change the subject. "By the way, do you want to eat something? I will go to the kitchen and prepare some snacks for us..."

He purses his lips before asking, "Do you want me to help you? Two is better than one. Besides, you'll enjoy preparing with me..."

"Do you know how to cook?" I asked which makes him smile.

"A little... But baking is my specialty." He boasted while giving me a teasing smirk.

Rolling his sleeves, he walks towards the kitchen.

I can't believe this. Will he really bake? I feel uncomfortable. It's my first time to invite a classmate in my house. I don't know what to do...

"Hey, Sofia! Don't just stand there. Join me!"

After saying that, he laughed softly.

*****

While Tristan is baking, all I ever did is to give him the ingredients he needs. I just watch him do everything... I am just standing here...enjoying his so-called baking session with me.

"That's it! Let's wait for a while."

He wiped the sweat rolling down his forehead and turned to look at me.

He is smiling excitedly... As if this moment fulfilled what he is longing for...

Upon noticing some flour on his face, I call his name softly.

"Tristan..."

"Hm?"

I point my finger on his face, "Flour..."

"What? Where? Where?"

He quickly rubbed his face with his hand. Instead of removing it, the flour completely spread all over his face.

I frown. "Stop it, Tristan." I walk towards him and pull his hand away from his face. By that moment, he stops from doing anything and stares down at me.

After releasing his hand, I pull out my handkerchief.

"Let me do it for you..." I wipe his face gently until all the flour is removed.

"It's okay now." I stop from frowning and smile at him.

"Thank you."

Tristan gave me a frown which makes me drop my smile. He looks away and scratches the back of his head.

I made a small laugh upon realizing something and commented, "I had a great time with you... And, this is the first time I see you getting embarassed."

He raised his eyebrows and whispered something.

"Are you saying something?"

Tristan shook his head and smiled.

Ting!

"Finally!"

He went near the oven and pulled out those delicious-looking cookies. Its smell makes me excited to have a bite.

"Here..." He placed the cookies on a plate. "Let's sit down and have a taste."

I quickly nodded and sat beside him.

Tristan picked up a cookie and blew it before taking a bite. Then, he pointed it onto my mouth, "Take a bite..."

"...He already took a bite on that cookie. Why would he..."

I just stared on the cookie while in deep thought.

"Sofia..."

"Uh...sorry. You don't need to do that. I can eat on my own." I pushed his hand away.

He farrowed his eyebrows, "Just for once... Quick! Here. I will take another one, then take a bite."

I keep on staring at him. Knowing that he will not give up until he gets what he want, I end up obeying him and take a bite of the cookie he's holding.

I smiled unintentionally. It tastes really good!

"Hmmn... It's great!" I smiled at him happily.

Tristan laughed, "Just like what I expected."

Suddenly, he lifted his hand and wiped something from my lips using his thumb.

"And...to become sweeter..."

He whispered as he slowly lean towards me. His face started to move closer to mine as if he's...

I quickly grabbed a cookie and stuff it in his mouth. "There..." I moved away from him and began eating.

There was a long silence...

"Sorry..."

I didn't say anything at all. He's starting to show his true colors.

"Sorry... Will you just forget? Since we're classmates and we're just starting to get to know each other..."

I looked at him, "Please...don't do that again."

He smiled at me apologetically, "Promise."

I gave him a small smile in return.

"Good..."

We spent our time eating together and after a while, we said our good-byes.

After dinner, the scene earlier suddenly popped out of my mind. I need to forget it. Nathaniel already warned me. I shook my head and reflected.

I must not avoid him because of a single mistake. Although...what he did is really alarming... I am...somewhat glad that I finally have someone to talk to...

Instead of isolating myself again, I will try to befriend but keep my distance to avoid conflicts in the future.

Few more days had passed...

Tristan still wants to be with me...

While Nathan is doing his task earnestly...

Now, the three of us usually walk home together.

Saturday morning...

I prepared myself and went outside to go to the nearest grocery store.

On my way...

I can't help myself but notice those things around me.

A hollow figure under the big tree...

Another one sitting by the bench... She's so pretty.

A familiar figure passed by me...

That ghost really loves to stroll around. I knew that because I often see him in various places.

I thought ghosts only have nine days to stay here on Earth. An article made me believe it. What if I was wrong after all?

Maybe it's not the number of days they're able to stay, but for them to choose whether they want to leave, or to just stay here forever. The nineth day is their deadline.

After buying, I pass by a flower shop and see my favorite flower. I stop walking and look at those pretty green roses.

"Rosa Chinensis Viridiflora"

China Green Rose...

When given to loved ones as a symbol of faith and hope...

But, some people describe green as the color of jealousy so receiving green roses may mean that the sender is feeling resentful. They say that the phrase “green with envy” is attributed to jealousy.

I also read a different article stating that they resemble "eternal love". If you give these flowers to someone it means that you will love her endlessly... loving her until death.

Suddenly, someone came out of the shop.

It's Nathan...

He's holding a bouquet of green roses. I suddenly felt happy for his girlfriend. She must be greatful because Nathan really loves him. Those flowers...

But, I didn't see him spending time with her. Is she studying in a different school? Without noticing, I decided to follow him out of curiosity.

After few moments, we reached a memorial park.

I hesitated... This is not good. There are lots of ghosts here. Thank goodness... I can finally handle myself. If ever I see each of them in those graves, I will make sure to ignore them completely.

Sighing deeply, I decided to follow him.

Nathan's sudden stop made me hide in panic. He turned around as if... "Is anybody there?"

It took him a minute or two before turning away, "must be my imagination..."

Wew! That was close.

I turn to look on my left and..."Woah!"

I quickly covered my mouth with my two hands hoping that the ghosy beside me didn't notice that I was startled to see him.

"Woah...woah..my groceries..."

I said that to cover myself from any suspicion. I took my groceries and left quickly.

At last, I saw Nathan stopped from walking. He kneeled in front of the grave, and put the flowers he bought earlier and closed his eyes. Few minutes later, He stood and whispered something before leaving.

I walked towards the grave and observed it.

"Evangeline...Evangeline Fayne."

This is... She is already...

"Sofia?!"

A firm voice startled me. Calling my name in an angry tone.

I stood nervously and turned around.

"Na-nathan?

"What are you doing here? Why are you..." He didn't finish his words. He remained quiet.

"It...it is nice to see you here."

I gave him a small smile, but he just looked at me suspiciously. "Did you follow me?"

I averted my eyes. There's no place for denying. He already saw me. "Yes... I just..."

"Are you stalking me?" he asked seriously.

"No..." I blushed. "Of course, not! I just saw you bought those flowers, and wonder as to whom you're going to give them... I love those flowers so I got curious..and..." I quickly stop myself from babbling and covered my mouth.

I slipped..

Nathaniel looked away from me...

What should I do? I didn't mean to say those nonsense things.

I bit my lips as he looked towards the grave sadly. Then, he turned his gaze towards me.

It was silent.

I feel uncomfortable and awkward at the same time. Of course, it is embarassing. I don't know what to say...

Suddenly, he walked until he is standing in front of me.

Tears... Is..is he crying?

What should I do? It's all my fault. I shouldn't have gone here.

I brought out my handkerchief and dried his cheeks. It feels like I am about to cry as well... "Nathan, I am sorry..."

His warm hand held my wrist. Once again, he pulled me towards him and embraced me.

I am surprised...really really surprised...

But the only thing I did is to hug him in return. I don't know why, but this is the only thing I can do to give him comfort. I can still hear his silent cry, he embraced me to hide his discomfort.

Then...

I saw a girl... A beautiful girl standing behind Nathaniel. She's about five meters or less away from us. She somewhat glows yet transparent as the sun shines down upon her. Very pretty, but owns a very sad expression at the same time. The girl is looking directly at Nathan. I guess...this girl might be...

"Evangeline..."

The girl turned her gaze at me as if she heard me muttering her name. She took away her sadness and smiled sincerely at me. Then, Evangeline walks beside me and whispers.

"Please... Will you please take care of my beloved Nathaniel? I can't accept the fact that he's suffering like this because my absence. But now that you're here, I knew that you'll be the one who'll make him smile again and bring back his lost hope. I don't want to see him like this anymore. I wanted him to be happy. So please, I want you to stay by his side. Make him happy... Do it for me... Then, I will let you have him..."

Evangeline moved away smiling.

What is she saying? She will let me have Nathan. But, why would I want that? We are just classmates. Nothing else. It is too much to ask...

"But.. I...I don't know..." I whispered.

"In order to do that, you have to learn to love him."

"Lo-Love him?"

Instead of answering, Evangeline looked away and vanished into thin air.

"Sofia...?"

Nathan muttered my name. I was lost in my thoughts earlier and talked to Evangeline through my mind.

I tapped Nathan's shoulder and moved away to look at him, "Nathan, I'm sorry..."

"It's okay..." He wiped his tears and continued,"Sorry for making you worry..."

He gently released me and walked near Evangeline's grave.

*****

We are now sitting on a bench in a nearby park.

I was playing with my hands thinking on what I should do. I can't find the right words to say.

Nathan sighs deeply, "Sofia... Why did you follow me?"

I looked at him nervously, "I...I got curious. You bought those flowers. It made me curious."

"Oh..." He replied coldly which made me feel awkward.

I need to explain.

"Those flowers... I love those flowers... They resemble eternal love... It is meant for those people who are special to you."

I laughed awkwardly, "To be honest, you are a kind of person who is very cold and distant. Seeing you bought those flowers caught my attention. I got curious... I wonder who's the lucky girl to receive your warm approach..."

Nathan looked at me in disbelief.

"I see..." He cleared his throat and looked ay me seriously.

"Do you really want to know her?"

"Oh, no. There's no need."

I looked away shyly and said, "Sorry... I didn't mean to follow you secretly."

"No. I don't mind. Just keep in mind that if you want to know something, ask me directly next time." He sighed.

"It is not good for a girl to follow someone secretly."

I pinched myself secretly. He is correct.

"Yes. I understand... I'm..."

"I guess... It is good for me." He gave me a small smile.

"Thank you for following me and not keeping any distance. I feel relieved to have someone to share with something."

Nathan's smile becomes colder. "So, can I share my worries with you? Since we will be spending the whole year together, we must be comfortable with each other..."

My eyes widened by surprise and said, "Of-Of course!"

He patted my head and muttered his thanks which makes me burst into happiness. Though I need to keep it hidden inside me. "A-anytime..."

Nathan moved his hand off my head.

"Evangeline was my girlfriend. I met her in junior high. She became my girlfriend when we reached the senior level. I love everything about her. Sweet. Caring. Funny. Childish."

He grinned while staring blankly on the ground.

"But she suddenly left me...two years ago..."

I looked at him sadly.

"You've been suffering for a long time. But, you need to be strong. Seeing you sad will make her sad as well. You should know that she is always here for you. You just can't see her, but you have to feel her."

"I just can't accept the fact that she left just like that. I really wanted to be with her." He clenched his fist as he say that softly.

"Nathan..."

"But..." He smiled a little and shared something, "I am so proud of her. I am really proud to meet someone like her who sacrificed her own life just to save a little child from a car accident. Even if that's the reason of her death, I'm still proud of her. She did great."

So, that's how she died...

Is that the reason why Nathaniel was worried when I was going to be hit by a motor that time? It reminded him of Evangeline's situation....her unexpected death.

"Right. Believe me, she'll be glad to see you happy."

I smiled at him and gave his shoulder a light tap.

"Just don't give up!"

I noticed that he stared at me for a long time before responding, "Yeah... You're right. I guess that's the best thing I can do for her... To let her see me happy..."

I smiled at him brightly upon hearing his conclusion, "Good! Evangeline will be very happy for you!"

"Thank you."

He smiled. A very genuine one.

"I owe you. If someday you need someone to listen to you, just come to me."

I averted my eyes lost in thought. He will...listen to me. Will he accept me?

"No worries. That's what Evangeline asked me to..."

Oh no... I.. I messed up.

I quickly looked at him to see his reaction.

"Oh..."

After a short moment, he quickly lifted his head and asked, "What?! What do you mean by she asked you to..."

I mentally slapped myself and moved away.

"Uh...I...I mean..."

What am I going to say?

I suddenly hear a warm voice.

"Just tell him... Tell him the truth... Believe me, he will not doubt you. He is the person you are looking for."

Her voice... Evangeline's voice vanished before I could say anything in return.

Tell him?

But, what if...

I look at him seriously but speak in hesitation, "It's because... I can see and talk to spirits. That's how it is... This is who I am. I was rejected in my previous school because of it. They bullied me." I shook my head trying to forget my past, "It doesn't matter anymore. Whether you believe me or not, I saw and talked to Evangeline a while ago..."

Nathaniel stared at me with a doubtful expression, "Are you kidding?"

As expected...

"Of course, not!" I said firmly and continued, "Why would I lie to you?"

Thank goodness!

There's nothing here or else, they will start bothering me. My voice is loud enough to let them hear what I just confessed.

He remained silent so I explained everything.

"Evangeline wanted me to tell you about my ability so I did it. She reassured me that you will not reject me upon learning the truth. Other than that, while we're near her grave. She told me that she love you and she doesn't want to see you suffering because of her absence."

I took a deep breath and continued, "Then...she asked me to take care of you and..."

I stopped talking trying to hide the last thing she told me. It is uncomfortable to say that the girl you love wants another girl to love you.

"Is it true?" He asked me seriously.

I crossed my arms in front of my chest and gave him a disappointed look, "Of course."

Nathan sighed and stared at me without breaking an eye contact. It seems like he's trying to accept everything even if he can't.

"Okay. I believe in you."

I smiled at him and became serious all of a sudden, "Then, are you scared of me?" I pointed at myself and added, "Do I sound creepy?"

"No." He smirks at me.

"I know you're lying."

He chuckled and said, "Let me think about it."

I narrowed my eyes at him.

"I better go home."

"Alright. A little bit." He continued smirking at me which is unusual. "But it doesn't matter."

"It doesn't matter? Are you sure?"

I exclaimed in surprise.

Nathaniel became serious and answered, "Yes."

I smiled in excitement and quickly jumped to give him a big hug. "Thank you! Evangeline is right. You accepted me."

"Yo-you're welcome."

He replied stiffly.

My eyes widened because of embarrassment. I quickly moved away from him. "I'm sorry. I am just very happy. I thought that you're going to reject me just like what other people did."

He looked at me worriedly and ruffled my hair.

"Don't worry. I am different from them. Trust me."

I looked away. I hid my face so that he will not notice that I am blushing.

"Thanks."

It's nearly evening so he escorted me home carrying the groceries I bought.

I thanked him and said our goodbyes before he left.

As I turn around, I saw a note attached in my front door. I took it and read what's written.

"*Hey, Sofia! I've been here for about three times but you're still not home. It seems you're off somewhere, so just text me using the number written at the back of this note. Text me after reading this. (´∀`)"

Your one and only,

Tristan* :)

I entered the house and quickly saved his number in my cellphone.