Chapter 11: Chapter Eleven

Kyla's POV

I know all about that history. Well, the general version. The one most people whisper about. Here was how it went:

Stein and Richard are best friends. Closest friends. They walk together, ate together, do everything together. Then there is Ryder and Tony.

They started after he left me and now they're inseparable.

This presents the question, Tony said he loves me. Ryder said he was in love with me. Was it possible that he doesn't know his best friend felt the same way?

Forget about that aspect for now anyways. I don't know how it began but I know how it is now. The four are enemies. Like literal enemies. They can't stand the sight of each other. I don't know how or why they're like that.

Friday night, Tony warned me about the bet, and I immediately thought it was because of the rivalry but then I shrugged it off and now Ryder too. I don't know what to think or believe. It's all so confusing.

"Say something, Kyla. Or don't say something. Just believe me. We were friends at a point in time, you listened to me, and I did the same. Believe me when I say this bet will only cause problems. Believe me, Kyla. Get out while you still can."

Then, a thought popped in. Tony and Ryder are friends, so it makes sense for him to know about the plan.

"I'm not stupid. I know I have to get out which is why I agreed."

His lips twitched slightly, and I took a nice long, deep breath before elaborating.

"Tony's helping me out. In a week, I'll admit to having fallen for Stein and then the bet will be over. Just seven days and I'm out."

"Tony's helping you?" he inquired, surprised.

"Yes, he's helping me. That's the plan and I'm sticking to it. It seems to be a good plan."

"What about Riley? She'll hate you."

"I just have to believe and trust in our friendship and the fact that she'll listen to me after everything is done. I can only hope but for now, I'm faking everything and getting out in one week."

"Can you do it?"

"Yes, I'll do my best Ryder."

"Alright."

I flipped to leave.

"Umm Kyla, I know this isn't the right time to say this but... It's really good to talk to you again. I hope we can do this more often."

I didn't respond, I continued walking. It's going to take more than that to make up for what he did to me. Much more than that.

I quickly dialed my uncle's number so he could get me. I prayed he wouldn't ask why Riley didn't help out. That would be extremely awkward.

****

I took a quick shower and laid on my bed.

"I'll regret this,” I said to myself but still tuned in to Joanna's podcast. It seemed to have just begun. I checked the time and Richard would be here soon. I better go prepare.

I dropped my phone and went to figure out my outfit. When I got back, I turned back in to listen to what she had to say. Matters couldn't get any worse so what difference would it make.

“And for those joining us now, we have a surprise guest. I made mention about revealing things, but I decided it would be better to hear it from the source. Introducing Riley Smoak.” Joanna pressed a button and applause came on.

I was wrong, things did get worse. I can only imagine what she'll say. Riley was impulsive and acted on emotions. After what happened in school, she was feeling all kind of things. Things she would speak about in the minutes to come. Things that may destroy everything.