Welcome to Café Luxe

Here's a quick tip for those who live by themselves: one, never EVER let an idiotic-teacher know which apartment you're in and two, don't open your doors to strangers. That's why when you find yourself standing in front of your apartment door, wearing your PJs and a desperate teacher knocking the crap out of your door-well, I suppose doors don't have crap-, then SOMETHING IS DEFINITELY WRONG...with the door, I mean.

I glanced at my clock. 9:59 a.m., it says. But why is an idiot standing on my doorway with that crazy-happy face of his?

"Maddie? Are you mad because I came a minute early?" I could hear him say as he knocked. I groaned. I knew that it'll cause a ruckus if that idiot will stay there long. I hope my neighbors aren't disturbed. Well, old people usual wake up early so, oh well.

I grabbed the nearest black-and-white checkered top with a black necktie. I grabbed my black baggy pants and slammed the bathroom door shut. I sensed that maybe he knew I was getting ready so for 2 minutes and 59 seconds, the room was quiet. As it stroke the 3rd minute, he knocks again, "are you done yet?"

I swung the door open, "what are you doing here, you gay?"
"Don't bad-mouth your daddy-" he put his hand on his waist, "-and teacher. Have some respect."
"Waking your student up early in the morning and irritatingly knocking on my door- wow, some respect YOU have," I said with half-moon eyes. At least, he looked good a little.

"I'm sorry," he looked down on his feet. For a moment there, I felt like apologizing...but he just had to ruin the moment. He looked up with his idiotic smile again, "let's go shopping. A daughter-daddy shopping!" he exclaimed excitedly.

I choked on my own saliva.

* * * * *
"I can't believe you dragged me into this."

I was sitting in the passenger's seat, right beside him, who was driving his Porsche. Let's have a quick review here: he's a teacher making a living. How can he afford such car? I have no effing idea. But I do know this-the radio was definitely playing classical music. Bach? Mozart? Beethoven? Only God knew.

"It's Vivaldi," I can see his smile as if reading my mind like a textbook.
I sat up, "Huh?" as if I didn't know what he was talking about.
"The one playing in the radio. Vivaldi is known for being a great composer of violin pieces," he chuckled, "just in case you're wondering."

"Where are you taking me?" I folded my arms, slouching.
"You'll see," he flashed a smile. His smile can be kind of cute...well, not as cute as Aldric's smile.
* *
"Whut...?" I mumbled as I stared up at the old-looking building, "are you mocking me because I live in an old-looking apartment?"
Vance chuckled, "no, silly. We're here to buy your violin."
Okay, no one calls me silly except my dad...who is NOT Vance. "I don't have the money," I muttered in an almost-bored voice. well, I was bored so who could blame me?
"It's on me."
"Deal," I said too-quickly.

I quickly entered the building without anymore arguments. He's buying it for me so no harm done to go in and have a look around.

"Hey, slow down, will you?" he finally caught up with me as soon as I entered. I looked around with awe. It was amazing,really. It was filled with shelves-probably filled with music sheets- and different violin parts. It was like entering a Lego shop or something.

A man in blue jumper came out behind the counter, "may I help you?" he asked under his thick white mustache. He reminds me of Santa Claus during 6th grade Christmas Party---later, I found out it was our principal in costume.

"Hey,Uncle Ben!" Vance smiled, walking pass me to shake his hand.
The man known as Uncle Ben, smiled at him, "oh, it's Little Vance. Long time no see!" He tilted his head sidewards to have a look at me, "well, your tastes have changed. Where'd you meet your little girlfriend? she's too young-looking-"

"-She's my student," Vance laughed but I couldn't quite see his face since he's facing Uncle Ben. Was he blushing? Half of me hoped so.

"Ho-oh!" Uncle Ben laughed heartily, "so I assume you're here to get a violin, little girl?" he smiled at me, "from your looks, it seems it's your first time to be able to hold such instrument."
'From my looks'?! Is he implying that I look like some newbie?! although, I AM a newbie. I made a face at him but nodded anyway.

"Uncle Ben, Madison Holmes here-" Vance hung his hand on the other shoulder of mine so,yeah, it's almost like he's putting his arms around me, "-is a rock-loving girl. I hope you'll give her a violin that will make her appreciate Classical Music more." I shook his arms off unconsciously and grinned at the beard-man.

"Well," Uncle pulled his jumper up, "a rock-lover,huh? I've heard about you people, those who don't really give a damn about who Liszt or Hydn are," he seem to be chewing something. I gave him a weird look. I was definitely one of those people who don't give a damn about those people. Who are Liszt and Hydn anyway?!

"So, I'm not fit to play violin?" I asked stupidly.
Of course, I received a thunderous laugh from him while Vance just sat on a wooden stool near the counter, watching my expression change from clueless to irritated. He couldn't help but smile. What could I do? This beard-man is making fun of me and I don't like it one bit. Vance's blue eyes focused at me as if wondering what I was thinking. I blushed a little and scowled at him.

"My, you're one interesting girl, little one," Uncle Ben finished his laugh, "everyone one is fit to play the violin-young, old; classical or rock- as long as you want to learn, it doesn't matter and remember that!" he winked at me. I secretly threw away his 'beardy-man-wink' to my imaginary trash can. He does remind me of someone else,now that I think about it. He's more like an old version of Vance.

"You remind me of my deceased daughter." This caught my attention. He had a daughter? "She died during the World War II when she was about to go to the concert hall to watch an orchestra performance, a bomb landed on the building right when the car was turning to the corner," Uncle Ben showed a sad smile, "she never really had the chance to watch a live performance."

"I made her a violin at that time and she loved it. After she died, I've kept it ever since," his old eyes looked at me, "I guess it's about time someone interesting would take care of it for me." He bent down behind the counter, and as he stood up, he brought out a case--a violin case. He opened it for me to see, "when you play this very well, I'm sure you'll love classical even more than you love rock."

"Oh, that's not possible," I grinned but took the case anyway as he handed it to me.
Vance smiled, "are you sure you'd want to give this violin away, Uncle Ben?"
"Of course!" he laughed and glanced at me, "in no time, I'm sure this girl would make a difference."
We left the building as Vance waved goodbye to Uncle Ben. It feels weird as I shouldered the violin case--it feels way different than carrying a guitar. I could see Vance in the corner of my eyes as we walked towards the car. He smiled at me but then, turned his attention ahead of him.

I followed his gaze and surprisingly, I finally caught one of his unconscious grin--not that I like his idiotic grin. "Hey," he smiled at me, "want to get something to eat before I give your first lesson?"

"Hey, dude, I only have lessons during weekdays and Saturdays, remember?"
He raise one of his eyebrow, "I wouldn't want you to play Twinkle,Twinkle Little Star awfully on Monday," he stood tall right in front of me. He's a bit tall, a few inches taller compared to me. Maybe it's just because I'm petite for my own age.
"Fine," I groaned and crossed the street with him.

* * * * *
"Oh, hey Vance! What's up?"

With hair up, almost looking like a strict lawyer working in a small bakery shop, I stared back at the beautiful black-haired Jeanne. At first, I wondered if it was just my imagination but it turns out to be the reality. And because of my curiosity, I end up realizing that Vance had been waving his hand in front of me. I snapped to reality again.

"Are you okay, Maddie?" he asked with a worried. 'Don't give me that puppy-eyes look!' I wanted to tell him.

"Yeah, I'm fine," I blushed and turned to Jeanne as she led us to the corner of the bakery for us to sit. "You work here?" I asked her as she handed me the menu.

"Only on Sundays," she smiled. I never really thought she could smile so cheerfully. Is it because Vance was there? so maybe they WERE secret lovers. "Oh," was all I could say.
"I just want the usual, Jeanne," Vance smiled, "and maybe Maddie should have that too." So just as I thought, Vance visited here frequently. This also adds to my 'they-are-secret-lovers' theory.

After Jeanne took the order down, she left our table to enter our orders to the manager of the shop. I swung my leg and hit the rectangular-shaped violin case. I then remembered why I was there with my idiotic,gay teacher. I frowned.

"So you're mother is the manager of that famous rock-band?" Vance, who had one arm hanging loosely on the back of his chair, asked.
I nodded, "Metal-G," I said, as if reminding him.
"Right." He wasn't amuse at all, "and you like that band, right?" he asked.
I nodded again, this time, I didn't say anything anymore.

"Well, that's cool," he smiled. His smile was way different from when we were at Uncle Ben's. Maybe because Jeanne was at the counter, which was behind me. So maybe he wasn't smiling AT me but AT the person behind me.

"Then, what do you want to be when you graduate?" he asked again.
I thought for a while. With a sigh, "I want to, well, take over my mom's job."
"Hmmm," he said as if thinking inside him.
"What about you?" I asked him out of politeness.
He sat up and leaned a little forward, "I want to be a teacher, just like now."

"Oh."
"My parents and my sister are at Europe. They're known as the 'concert masters'. They're performing."
"Then why don't you perform with them? You'll make more money," I smiled.
He frowned, "performing's not my thing," he sighed, "and that's the reason why they left me here. I didn't want to perform with them."

"Why?" suddenly, I realized I'm already slipping out my curiosity.
"Because," there was a sad smile on his face, "-because I wanted to be a teacher, my other relatives look down on me. My father couldn't take it. They left me here and went around the world, performing WITHOUT me."

Suddenly, Jeanne came back with the orders. She smiled, "strawberry cakes for you two."
So that's what 'the usual' of Vance. He really is gay.
"You know, gay people like strawberries," I sneered.
He laughed, "strawberry cakes in this shop are good," he grinned, "you know, strawberries can naturally whiten your teeth."

I looked up at Jeanne who was giggling, "don't be surprised, Madison-" she called me by my whole name, definitely lawyer-like, "-he also told me that when he ordered that for the first time."

I stared down at the beautifully and creatively designed cake with half-lidded eyes. I didn't really like a thing that doesn't have any connection with black or rock. Pink is DEFINITELY not black. I picked up the fork and noticed Jeanne wasn't there anymore and Vance was finished with his cake. He had his cheeks cupped by his right hand and staring at me with a slight smile.

I blushed, "w-what?"
"Nothing," he smiled, "I'm just thinking that you're not such a bad rock-loving kid. You like trying new things out."
"What do you mean?"
"You like black and rock and yet, here you are, trying to eat the strawberry cake."
I waved him off, "it's not a big deal." I scooped up a strawberry with white icing and ate it. And let me tell you, strawberry cake--aside from it has a weird color and appearance-- tastes nice.

* * * * *
"Then, I'll see you later this day!" Vance smiled as he dropped me off at my apartment. I stood there as he left with his car. He probably had some things to do. I glanced at my watch: 1:00 pm

I entered the apartment again. As soon as I pushed open the old wooden door, I glanced at Land-Lady's door. It was good that she wasn't out patrolling the apartment again. I went straight up the the stairs. As I reached the second floor, I walked passed two rooms and opened my door. I didn't bother locking my door since I think everyone in this apartment is dead when clock strikes 1 pm. I guess old people love sleeping.
* *
I stretched my arm up as I sat in front of my study table. Homework kills. I glanced at the clock: 4:00 pm. I figured that maybe Vance won't be having our first lesson today. Then, I remembered the look on his face as he was telling me about his family earlier.

He wasn't smiling,nor frowning. Maybe he and his family aren't close or something. Suddenly, a knock came to the door. Shoot. He was here. Feeling partly excited without any valid reason, I opened the door.

"Surprise from your best friend!" Trixie grinned, raising 4 paper bags. I think she went shopping.
"oh, it's you, Trixie," I smiled.
"What? You seemed to be expecting someone other than me," she smiled, pushing herself in. She sat on my bed, leaving her shopping bags on the floor beside the bed.

"You went shopping?" I asked.
"Does it show?"
"No," I joked. We laughed.

"By the way," she laid on my bed as I sat on my chair backwards, "my mom told me something and I want to share this with you." She sat up and opened my first drawer without standing. She pulled out my laptop and pushed the 'on' button.

"What are you doing?" I asked, with one eyebrow up.
She smiled cunningly, "I suppose you want to know something about your teacher." As soon as it was on, she entered a website and instantly, the page loaded.

On the website itself, there were three people: one old man in his 40s and two women, one old and one young. On top of the page, it said, "The Montgomery: The Concert Masters". Trixie sat back with a smile, "this is your teacher's family."

I stared back at the screen. His father looked as if he truly was a master. He was a cello player. His mother was holding violin with a piano in the background and his sister was playing the flute. What caught my attention was his sister: her hair was straight, shoulder length and light brown. She was beautiful! Vance's hair, on the other hand, is a bit dark brown, messy --as if a tornado had run through it.

"They're going to have a concert here a few months from now," Trixie continued, "my mom was able to book 3 tickets. I thought that maybe we should go. The third ticket, maybe, I could sell it."

I nodded absent-mindedly as I click on the About button. This is what it said:

The Montgomery Family consists of four members: Sir William van Clementi Montgomery, a well-known cellist; Lady Elizabeth Montgomery, a famous pianist and violinist; and Lady Elaine Mikaela Montgomery, known as "Modernized-Flutist" in Europe. The fourth member of the family, however, has not been to public performance of these three important people.

According to Sir Montgomery, his "invisible" son is not going to perform in public. This shocked the media that European Musicians considered the son "dead from music". Although, the other relatives (also musicians) were ashamed of the mere existence of the "invisible son", Lady Elaine Montgomery revealed that her younger brother is considered "a prodigy because of his love for music." According to her as well, her younger brother plays the violin and the piano quite well.

Although, there had been instances where every year, the family would visit their hometown, the "invisible prodigy" would bring his "students" to the party and have them play. With this, everyone is wondering: "What is the prodigy doing with his talents?"

I paused, my mouth slightly opened.
Suddenly, I realized why Vance had that kind of expression earlier.

Everything about him, all of a sudden, I could already relate.

"Madison Holmes, you come home right this instant!"

This is the worst message in my message machine so far. For a girl who insisted to go out and live by herself to learn how to be independent, this message would start a nightmare that will never end. I knew I was in a massive trouble. Who knows what that woman will do?!

* * * * *
“I’ll have this,” the perky cheerleader said. She grinned at me as she held up a ‘Rock Out Loud!’ shirt of Metal-G.
I frowned. I loved that shirt and now it’s going to someone else’s unworthy hands. “50 dollars,” I held out my palm.
“45,” she haggled.
I rolled my eyes, “deal.” She took out the exact amount in her pocket. Probably that’s the only money she had on her since it was already dismissal. She left with a satisfied smile and entered Café Luxe with her friends. I felt like crying. Not only was Metal-G my favorite band of all time, it's also the band my mom is currently managing. Metal-G, also known as Metallic Generation, is the greatest band in this century! But I never actually met them, I only get my hands on their commodities 5 months before its release dates.

I shouldered my bag, swinging it to my back. I looked inside Café Luxe and spotted the cheerleader holding out the shirt for her friends to see. Goodbye, my favorite shirt. The employee of the said café, a guy from the Excellent Department of my school, grinned at me, “rough day?”

“Yeah,” I nodded, “totally.”
“You always sell those things right outside the café. Is it your habit?”
“Nope. Ms Dean allowed me to sell here and here only.”
Luke Van Drie, the guy, smiled weakly, “then, suit yourself.” He entered the café again with a broom in his hand. He’s really friendly and he always brings out extra treats to me when the store closes early.

I shrugged and left through the main school gate which took me at least 5 minutes to walk from the café to the gate. This school is amazingly big for me. But thankfully, they accept scholars like me. But I can only get through the Superior Department. That’s how far a scholar like me could get in.
* *
I walked about a mile when I spotted a sign saying "Welcome to Cherry Blossoms Street!" and I knew my way here. Cherry Blossoms Street is the nearest street to school and almost every resident here are students like me who live outside the school and probably some of them, like me, can't afford the high-priced dorms inside the school.

Luxe, as you can say, have many school branches. The Luxe Academy, for elementary students; The Luxe scholastic International School, for high school students; and The Luxe University, for college students. Of course, Luxe isn't the only school around this street.

A few more blocks from this street is the Crossroad City. There are about 2 public schools there and some more music, art and a karate school there.

Back to Cherry Blossoms Street, there are 5 big apartments that are well-known. From the newest to oldest, it follows: Apple Apartment, Strawberry Apartment, Melon Apartment, Peach Apartment and Cherry Apartment. You might have thought that just because I moved in to this street 5 months ago meant that I'm probably living at Apple Apartment or the Strawberry Apartment, the two newest building.

Wrong.

I live in Cherry Apartment, a 100-year-old-looking apartment which I believed have been in its place way before Godzilla was born. Yeah, that far. I think that one of these days, a kid will accidentally bump his bike onto its wall and it will collapse so everyday, I put my important stuff near the doorway-just in case it happens!

Oh, and another thing: my neighbors are mostly old people. The land-lady is in her 40s and lost her husband during World War II so yeah, I think you can imagine how grumpy she gets when collection day arrives.

...which explains why I was selling Metal-G merchandises a few minutes ago. As I've explained, I get my hands on the Metal-G merchandises 5 months before its release dates and the shirt a while ago? I only got it last week so it's not yet in its 5th month.

...which also explains why when I arrive in my apartment, I receive a almost-threatening message from my mom. She has connections and probably knew I was selling the merchandises at very low prices.
* *
I quickly got a cab in Crossroad City. My parents, with my brother, live East Bridge City-it's the city right after Crossroad. Now you can imagine how far I would travel just to get to my home and get scolded for what I didn't deserve.

...or so I've thought.

* * * * *
"Fish-sticks..."

Yes, believe it or not, that's what I muttered right in front of the rock band I actually idolized. I stared at 3 hotties sitting on our couch at my parents' house, wearing almost all black. That was their trademark.

Let's make a review shall we?

I, Madison Holmes, Metal-G's number one fan, am currently wearing Luxe Scholastic International School uniform with bright blue necktie for being a Sophomore. What I'm currently wearing is a brown blazer over a white blouse and a checkered brown short-skirt with matching white socks an brown shoes. Brown is definitely not black.

"I always wear black except at school, I promise!" I said as if I was guilty of something. The two older members, Meverick and Tristan, seem to pop a question mark right above their heads. Meanwhile, the youngest member, Aldric, laughed.

"Relax, we're just here with your mom, Madison," Aldric smiled.
Oh my God, he knows my name.
Meverick raise one of his eyebrows-his trademark-, "you know her, Al?"
Aldric smiled, "she's Mrs Holmes' daughter. I've seen her pictures on her mom's desk."

"...and you wear black except in school?" Tristan held back his laughter.
I frowned, "I'm a big fan and since you guys wear black, then I do too. Except in school because I'm a scholar there and I'm suppose to be goody-good student."

"well, a goody-good student wouldn't sell my managing band's merchandises." My mom, Kierra Holmes, suddenly entered the living room from the kitchen. She placed a tray of snacks on the table from which the guys took cookies.

I turned pink, "I have my reasons," I stuttered a little.
"Ah, is she the one you told us about, Mrs Holmes?" Meverick gave me a slightly disgusted look.
Mom nodded, "and apparently, because of this, the merchandises for the next five months will probably decline."
"B-But I have a reason. You s-see, the land lady turns really grouchy when collection day comes and..." I shut my mouth. If mom found out I'm having money problems, she'll surely pull me back here-which is far,far away from school.

"I-I mean, I needed money for Trixie's gift," I grinned, lying. Trixie is my best friend in school, I hope she doesn't mind if I use her as a reason.
"As punishment-" my mom declared.

"...here it goes," I mumbled and I can tell Aldric heard this since he grinned at me.

"-I'll send you in Montgomery's Violin School," she finished her sentence.

"YOU WHAT?!"
"Well, Trixie's mother told me all about it and I think it's a good school for you to learn something, aside from guitar and bass."
"Mom, since when did you have connection with Trixie's mom?!"
"Since last year's graduation. Good grief, Maddie, do you have to know everything?"
I looked at my mom as if it were obvious, "duh, you're my mom." I paused, "wait, that means I'll be playing and listening to CLASSICAL MUSIC?!"

Mom looked at Metal-G's members and then to me. With a smile, she nodded, "well, that's a punishment for a rock-lover like you, Maddie."

I could have died.

* * * * *
"You know, it's your fault too."

"Are you taking my side or my mom's?" I asked as I squirmed in my seat at the bus. a few minutes ago, I met up with Trixie and told her everything: about the Metal-G at my house, classical music and the connection between our moms.

"Well," she shrugged, "don't worry, dear. Everything will be fine."
"Every thing's NOT fine, Trixie. I mean, tomorrow's Saturday," I pouted.
"So?"
"So..?" I pointed out, "I'll be starting that stupid lesson tomorrow. I'll be having lessons everyday after school except Sundays."
"Harsh," she made a painful look.
"I know." The bus suddenly stopped. I stood up, "I guess I'll drop off here. Are you going back to your dorm at Luxe?"

Trixie nodded, "yeah. I'll call you tomorrow for updates. If there are cute guys, tell me ASAP." She winked at me and that made me smile for the first time this day. She always makes me feel better, knowing that someone is actually at my side.

I stepped down the bus. It's door closed shut and I faced the Crossroad Supermarket. I entered the shop and instantly, I bumped into a college student with her friend. "Sorry," I mumbled. Under her hat, she smiled but stayed silent. She hurried out of the shop.

I looked around the supermarket and grabbed the following: instant noodles, dozen of eggs, a Gatorade and a box of toothpaste. The girl over the counter smiled at me and I smiled back. I knew her because I always shop here when I needed some things at my apartment.

I left the supermarket but again, I bumped into a lady with a silver-framed glasses and tied her hair up. She was wearing a high-heeled boots which made an irritating sound. She apologized and I did too. At least she apologized, unlike the other one earlier.

I walked a few miles and reached the Cherry Blossoms Street. As I turned to the corner, I almost bumped into a girl about my age. She was wearing Luxe uniform as well so we were familiarized by our uniforms. "Nice to bump into someone who studies in the same school as me," she smiled.

"Yeah," I nodded.
"You're from the Superior Department?" she asked.
She was quite tall so I looked up at her. She was wearing an Excellent Department pin. I could only nod in reply.
"well, nice meeting you." She walked briskly as she crossed the street. Just like the two ladies I bumped into earlier, she was in a hurry as well. I sighed. Everyone's busy to talk to me. Even Trixie's in a hurry.

I walked absent-mindedly, clutching the brown paperbag in my arms in which the supplies I bought a while ago were placed. I met two girls walking pass me. They looked identical sisters but what caught my eye was the other one who was carrying a big bag over her shoulder. They were in a hurry as well.
* *
I entered the apartment and the land-lady smiled at me, "rough day, Madison?"
I nodded, "yeah. I'll pay the rent tomorrow," I said as if reminding her.
She shook her head, "take your time."
But I knew she didn't mean it because on collection day, she'll be banging on my door, screaming my name at the top of her lungs. I could only smile.

I climbed up the stairs but a man, in a hurry, bumped me causing me to lose my balance. He quickly grabbed my arm as not to fall over the stairs. My toothpaste did exited my paper bag. He picked it up for me, skipping a few stair-steps.

"Sorry," he smiled, handing it to me. I couldn't see his face very well because of his black French Beret Hat pushing down his bangs which covered his eyes.
"It's okay," I blushed and thanked him. His smile was eye-catching. I bet he's handsome without that hat.

"You in a hurry?" Land-lady asked. I turned around to answer but she wasn't asking me at all.
The guy chuckled, "I'm late as usual, Ms Landlady."
His voice was stuck in my head. I sure hope I'll bump into him again. As they chatted, I went straight up,wondering where his room was. I grabbed my keys in my pocket and pushed my apartment door open. I stumbled in.

* * * * *
Morning came too fast. I opened my eyes, my alarm clock blaring from my side-table. I swung my arms sidewards, shutting the thing off. I stood up and took some clothes from my closet and took a quick shower.

It was 12pm when I left the apartment. As expected, I never met Mr Wonderful-voice anymore (that's what I named the guy I bumped into yesterday). I checked my bag if I had everything in there: mirror, class card and phone.

I was wearing almost-everything black: white top over a black hoodie; black skirt and sneakers. Eveything matched, of course.

It was drizzling so I put my hood up and crossed the street to Crossroad City. I looked at my palm where I scribbled the name: Montgomery's Violin School. I scanned left to right and suddenly, I spotted it. A glass type architecture. It was right above a nameless café. Beside the café, I spotted a staircase up the school.
* *
I climbed up and took a deep breath. Classical's not my thing and I wouldn't be surprise if I find myself suffocating from Classical-phobia. I took the initiative to open the door, not that anyone would open it for me.

Suddenly, it was as if petals of roses came blowing towards me...that was what it felt like when I opened the door and found 5 girls and a guy putting up red paper-roses in the room. I stared at them with wide eyes.

"aww, damn, she's here!" the guy-or maybe gay- whined as he stepped down the ladder, skipping his way to me. He "showered" me with paper petals, "welcome to Montgomery's Violin School," he grinned.

My soul just exited my body.

"Amazing..."

Luke stared at an amazingly-and beautifully-dressed lady that was carefully making her way down stairs as not to ruin the baby-blue halter gown that Luke himself bought for her. He had the money for now and to the last minute, he will treasure this night.

Sam blushed, "don't stare, you idiot."
"I'm not," Jean grinned as he stared at her.
Kirsten, who was blushing, hit the back of Jean's head, "not you, idiot!"

"Have a nice evening, Mistress," Ian smiled as he put on the shawl on her.
"Thanks," Sam smiled. It will be the last evening with him, of course she'll enjoy it.
--
As soon as the four of them got to the hotel, the didn't hesitate to go wild. Well, literally speaking to Jean.

"Oh, you're here," Lady Antoinette suddenly appeared behind Sam. She smiled at her, "nice dress."
"Thanks," Sam grinned back. Finally, everything was peaceful. Jared did not show up, probably dropped out of school after Luke reported everything to Miss Dean, who-by the way- is the mother of Samantha Blanc, the girl who was almost harassed.

After a few hours of having fun and chatting, Sam found her way to the open balcony. She spotted a boy, left alone the drooling fan-girls at the other side of the balcony, leaning against the railings, staring the to the fountain in the ground floor of the hotel.

"You're really a loner, you know that?" Sam chuckled.
Luke smiled, "yeah, I kinda know that already."
"Aren't you worried of what will happen to you in France?" Sam had her sad-happy face on.
Luke shook his head, "when I remember the fun times I had here, of course I'm not worried at all."

There was silence.

"Of course, I hope you'll not bother me while I'm there," Luke grinned, "I'll be busy and might not be able to return calls or letters."
"I won't bother you, idiot. I'll be busy taking all the number one spots here when you're gone," Sam smiled, half-meant what she just said.

"Here," Luke gave her a gold-brown pendant. It had a simple design on it.
Sam stared down at it, "what for?"
"Don't forget this night," Luke blushed, "took me a lot of guts to ask you here."
Sam blushed and grinned at him, "I won't." ever.

"Then, I don't care anymore," Luke sighed, facing her, "to be a gentleman, you have to be tough as well, right?"
Sam raise on eyebrow, "huh?"
Suddenly, out of the blue, she felt his lips on hers. It was slightly awkward but then again, it was nice. He pulled back, "I'm sorry. I can't be your rival anymore."

Sam covered her mouth, "w-what?" her heart ached.
"I love you, Sam."

For the first time, he called her by her name. Well, nickname, that is.
Sam's heart seem to clench in pain. Tears down on her cheeks, "why only now? Just when you're leaving?"
"Because I don't want you to be hurt when I'm gone."
"AND YOU THINK THIS TIME WILL EASILY LET ME FORGET YOU?" Sam suddenly said harshly.

"I-"
"But, Luke. Why didn't you let me love you longer?"
Luke's eyes widened, "you mean-"
"I already loved you from afar. I thought that it was one-sided so I never really admitted it to myself," Sam cried, "why didn't you let me have the opportunity to love you longer?"

"I'm sorry."
"I hate you."
Luke looked at her, "b-but-"
"No," Sam stepped back, "I hate you. I HATE YOU!" She ran away, leaving him speechless...

...and heartbroken.

=o=o=o=o=
Her alarm-clock blared but she quickly turned it off. she didn't need to set the time so early since she didn't really slept last night.

Here eyes were red and puffy. The worst part is, she knew that she was already alone in the Guardian's Dorm. No more Ian banging onto her door with a big grin on his face. No more noisy morning with the the fighting brothers. No more Luke calling her an idiot for staying up late again.

Luke. She missed him.

But this time, she wasn't up 9 hours straight, staring at the ceiling, because of homework. No, she was up late...crying her eyes out. She didn't want to get out of bed. it was vacation anyway. Plus, there's no reason to.

Suddenly, a brunette came bursting into her bed room door, "Sam, rise and shine! We need to get to the airport fast!"

"I don't wanna."

"Come on, Sam. Forget what happened last night," Kirsten groaned. After what happened, Sam called her up from the Guardian's dorm and spilled everything out. The confession, the fight, the kiss...well, Kirsten wasn't surprise at all.

"I don't need to go. Go ahead, Kirsten."

"What kind of a friend do you think I am?" Kirsten said, feeling hurt, "anyway, let me ask you this, how long will you intend to stay here?"

"Forever," Sam croaked.

Kirsten rolled her eyes and opened the curtains, letting the sunlight in, "It's a waste if you don't get out of this emo room."

Sam stood up from the bed and closed the curtains again, "it's not so sunny today," she insisted.

"Do you love him?"

Sam suddenly faced Kirsten, "What?" not just because Kirsten was wearing an unmatched necklace given by Jean. All because Kirsten, the girl who hated Luke the most, is not asking her this.

"I don't love him," Sam denied, "he's a heartbreaking idiot."
"Than, why are you crying?"

Sam realized, feeling hot tears down her cheeks. She wiped it off.
Suddenly, Kirsten threw her the clothes she recommended, "here. Go get dressed," she smiled.

--o--o--o--o--o--o--o--o--
"Oh, God. Idiot number 2 says that Idiot number 1 will be leaving in 5 minutes," Kirsten said, reading the message on her cellphone.

It was a good thing they just arrived the airport.

They quickly entered and scanned the whole place, Luke was nowhere to be found.
"We'll just have to run around to find him," Kirsten said.
"B-But...," Sam said in uncertainty, "it looks like we can't."
"Be strong!" Kirsten grinned, "we'll find him. Just look for a cheeky-looking rich-kid."

--

"Then, we'll be leaving now," Mr Van Drie announced, picking up his bag.
"W-Wait! They'll be here!" Jean blocked the way.
Luke glared, "get out of the way, idiot."

Ms Dean pulled Jean aside, "then, I'll just send your goodbyes to Samantha and Kirsten."
Ian nodded, pulling Luke towards the checkpoint to enter the plane, "send our love too."
"I will," Ms Dean smiled.

"No, wait,"Jean exclaimed but then, Ms Dean covered his mouth. "Goodbye then," Ms Dean waved.

Mr Van Drie, Ian, Luke and some bodyguards entered the checkpoint and into the plane.
--
"Where are they?!" Kirsten suddenly asked as soon as they ran to Jean.
"They just entered the plane," Ms Dean reported.

"Damn!" Kirsten cursed.
Sam looked down on the pedant that she'd been holding tight, "I guess we're not really meant to say goodbye to each other," she smiled sadly, as if talking to Luke through the pendant.

=o=o=o=
Luke sat by the window and stared out of the plane. He can see Sam now, looking at him. Could she see him? 'I love you', she mouthed. Under his long bangs, Luke smiled.

He looked down on a Christmas-wrapped box on his lap. It was the gift she gave him on Christmas Eve that he never opened. (Chapter 26)

He unwrapped it and opened the box. Inside was a doll, it looked a lot like Sam. He stared at it, "what's this for?" he chuckled and noticed a paper stick out of its mouth. He pulled it and unfolded the paper.

Dear Luke,
Here's a present for you. I know that by the time you're reading this, it's probably too late or something. Well, I'm not very good at convincing people to open their gifts early. Anyway, yes, the doll is me so you'll always remember that a rival will always be here, ready to be challenged. Merry Christmas!
Friends Forever.
-Samantha

It was in a unruly writing but readable. Luke smiled, "thanks."

[][][][][][][][][][][]
A few months later, at the opening ceremony, Sam, Kirsten and Jean sat with each other.

"I like the Sophomore's uniform," Kirsten grinned down at her blue necktie, "I feel as if I'm more superior."
"You mean 'Excellent'," Jean smiled.
"Right...," Kirsten said with half-moon eyes.

Sam smiled at them, "I'm glad you two are getting along fine."
Kirsten and Jean blushed and looked away. Suddenly, the auditorium lights dimmed, onstage, Ms Dean stood with a microphone, "welcome, students, to the opening ceremony of Luxe Scholastic International School."

Everyone clapped.

"Now, let's welcome the Top Scorers of the Freshman, Sophomore and Senior batches!"
"Hey, Sam. Since Luke isn't here anymore, why aren't you the one delivering the speech? You RAE the second top scorer," Kirsten whispered.

"Maybe someone will be replacing," Jean whispered.
"Who?!"
--
When the Freshman Excellent Department top scorer finished her speech, Ms Dean stood onstage again, "now, let's welcome the Sophomore Top Scorer. Everyone is very familiar of him and I know a lot of you heard that he left. Well, let's see, shall we?"

Suddenly, there were fan-girls cheering and gasps to be heard. A boy in Sophomore uniform stepped out of the the side to the stage. His footsteps could be heard very well. Samantha's eyes widened as Kirsten elbowed her as if teasing her.

"Good morning to all! I'm very honored to be stepping on this stage again." His eyes wandered and landed on Samantha. As he delivered his speech, it was as if his message was for her. But soon, his turn was over, the Senior top scorer delivered his speech.

A few hours passed but to Sam, it was like a century had passed already. All the memories with Luke flashed in her mind. She loved him and she still couldn't believe what was happening.

As soon as the ceremony was over, Sam, Kirsten and Jean ran to the classroom, opening the door roughly. Their old classmate greeted them with big smiles and so did Kirsten and Jean. But Sam ignored them. She made her way through the crowd.

Sitting beside the window, the sunlight almost blinding him, sat a familiar boy. Sam sat beside him, her usual seat from last year. It was the same, anyway.

"Good morning," Sam smiled shyly at him.
Luke Van Drie smiled, "missed me?"
Sam suddenly hugged him, "idiot, why are you here?"
"I went to France to turn down the offer, didn't I tell you I wasn't worried at all?"

Sam chuckled, "I love you," she whispered.
Luke closed his eyes, hugging her back, "me too."

After a few minutes, everyone greeted him too. Everyone was happy.

"Good morning to you too, Sam." Luke flashed a smile at her. It was a new beginning, another new school year. Cinderella-or should I say, Prince Charming- finally found his happy ending.