Five days after.

The past few days have moved really fast and so soon,my parents would be returning tomorrow. I've got a date with Ornaldo today. After my last encounter with Gwen,I decided to stay out of Ethan's way,at least for now. I would admit my feelings to him but not when Gwen was still around. I got ready and texted Ornaldo that I was coming over in a few minutes. Elsie had gone to the internet café to work on her blog.

Satisfied with my looks, I headed downstairs. Halfway down the staircase, Ethan called out. I turned around to hear what he had to say.

"You can't go out"

I arched my brows, wondering if I didn't hear what he said clearly.

"Excuse me?" I asked.

"You heard what I said. We need to talk"
His tone was very serious.

"I don't have time. I've got to go"
I said and walked away from him.

When I entered my car, I brushed a few strands of hair plastered to my forehead and then sparked the engine to life.

Within few minutes, I was at Ornaldo's apartment. I pressed the doorbell twice before he came to open the door.

"You're welcome. Come in"
He gestured towards the room. I entered and offered him a small smile.

"Would you like anything to drink?" He asked.

"Just water would be fine"

"Okay. I'll get it then" He sprang up to his feet to get me water.

Soon enough, he appeared with a glass of water. I sipped a little and then placed it down on the glassy center table by the couch.
He turned around and faced me.
We were just a few inches apart.

"I'm sorry for what I said to you the other day. I was just expressing my feelings" He said and edged closer as I moved away further.

"I've already forgiven you, Ornaldo. Let's just forget about it and move on as friends"
I said, waiting for his reaction.

Hurt flashed through his eyes. I could see it.

"Why can't you just reciprocate my love? Why is it so difficult?"

He said and grabbed both of my arms firmly. My heart began pacing wildly and I began to sweat out of fear.

"W-what are y-you doing Ornaldo?"
My voice came out as barely a squeak as I struggled out of his grip without much success. His grip on me was really firm and tight.

"You'll find out soon enough" He said and smirked at me as his eyes turned a darker shade.