Chapter 12: Chapter Twelve
Kyla's POV
I listen keenly. It's almost like they know I'm there. Joanna takes her sweet time. Getting her "interview” ready. A few days ago, Riley would have loathed the idea of crossing paths with her. Now, they're in the same room together hosting a podcast or whatever it's called. Things do move fast, one minute you think everything's perfect and the next you realize it's all falling apart.
Seconds later, I hear her clear her throat ready to begin.
“Are you ready Riley?”
“Yes. Definitely.”
“Okay, good. Tell everyone in your own words how you feel.”
“Well, I feel okay really. I'm glad I got to know exactly who Kyla is. You might have dared her, but she finally showed her true colors and I'm happy. I excited to see how the bet turns out.”
“And Stein? Do you still love him?”
“Well, it doesn't matter now does it. I'll just watch from the sidelines. If you're listening Kyla, I want to say I hope you're happy. I hope you are.”
I can taste the sarcasm in her tone. I toss my phone aside and plop on my bed. Maybe Tony was wrong, if I opened up to her this wouldn't be happening now, would it?
Riley is too close for me to lose. I'll think of something. I might not even last a week; I'll bring something up and convince Richard I've fallen for Stein. The sooner the fucking bet ends, the faster I get my normal, average and boring life back. I just want to be the unnoticed girl again. I'm tired of fame and popularity. When will it end?
I shut my eyes wanting to get some rest. My thoughts are whirling, it's like I'm forgetting something important although I can't place a finger on it. I shrug internally regarding it as nothing until my phone starts ringing. The number is unsaved, but I reluctantly answer.
"Hi, Kyla. Are you ready?" a strange yet familiar voice asks. My eyes snap open and I remember my date with Richard. I rush to get dressed before saying yes. I make no effort to get dolled up for him or anything. I have no intention of making him feel like I'm going the extra mile.
About twenty minutes later, I hear the doorbell ring downstairs. I rush to the door so my aunt wouldn't have to see him.
I carefully adjust my outfit and place a fake smile on my face greeting him outside.
"Hi."
We breathe out simultaneously. I couldn't believe I chuckled afterwards, but I did. I widened the door so he could come in.
"I'll be right back. Just need to get my purse."
He nods his head and I rush back to my room to get my things before closing the door carefully. I bade my aunt goodbye earning a suspicious look from her. Understandable since I never go out, much less with a guy. I'll surely get an earful when I get back.
I'm trailing down the stairs towards Richard, but he seems to be talking to someone on the phone. He barely noticed my presence. I'm about to alert him but the next words that come out of his mouth make me freeze.
“Yes. I know the plan. Don't worry, I got this. We're leaving soon so don't worry.”
He states then hangs up and turns around to face me.
"The plan?"
I repeat questioning him. This just got interesting. What is he up to concerning me, concerning tonight? I narrow my gaze, waiting for a reply.