Hey. She greeted him.
He patted the space beside him.
You look so blue. What’s up? She asked as she sat down.
Nothing.
Come on. Tell.
It’s nothing really. Just stressed out from school, I guess.
It’s her again, isn’t it? She didn’t want to go out with you tonight.
He frowned at her. Get off my case, will you?
She shrugged. Whatever you say.
They fell silent, just watching the sun sink slowly in the horizon and the waves gently lap the shore.
He broke the silence. I can’t really blame her, can I? He was still staring at the glowing horizon.
Huh?
He continued. I mean, she could have her pick of the best guys all over school. Why the heck should she pick me?
Because… you’re you? She cocked her head at one side.
He smiled at her. I appreciate the effort but you really don't need to do the cheer-up-a-friend-by-boosting-his-ego routine.
I was serious about my answer.
You just never let up, do you? He smiled. And you’re sweet, you know that? That’s why I love having you as my friend. He looked at the sunset again and sighed. Anyway, I’m nothing to her. I’m not even a straight-A student. I can’t play an instrument to save my life. She probably thinks I’m queer or weird because I play volleyball instead of basketball or do weights. It’s really hopeless, Cathy. Come to think of it. I am hopeless. He laughed self-deprecatingly.
Yes, you are. You see, you know that you don’t have a chance with these girls, but you still pursue them. So what do you get? A broken heart and a dose of self-pity. Yet you never learn. And you know what? You are also hopelessly blind. And will you please quit staring at the sunset? It won't do you any good. And why don’t you notice me? Do I have to wave a placard saying “I love you, you idiot” or “Here I am, fool” right at your face? She sighed. You’re an idiot, Ivan. And so am I.
But of course, she didn’t say any of those out loud.
He looked at her. Hey, you’re quiet. You’re tired of hearing my sob story, aren’t you?
She laughed. No comment on that. I'm on the cheer-up-a-friend-by-boosting-his-ego mode, remeber? Let’s just sit and watch the sunset, okay?
|end|
