The Ninety-Second Bus Ride

A Story by lepetitprince

In the school bus, where anything can happen, a smart, head-strong girl went against wits of one of the worst and despicable boys she has ever met. What will happen if they are clunked together?

Okay, so right now, I'm just staring out of the bus's window, even though I can't see a thing because it's raining like there's no tomorrow. And also I can't talk because the craphole of my seatmate is just crapping away. As I sighed, I thought to myself, "This couldn't get any worse." But right there and then, it did. Someone came. Perhaps a teacher making its rounds because.everyone went quiet. Apparently, it wasn't a teacher. It was the school bad boy: Michael.

Now, to tell you the truth, I'm not very much afraid of him. Firstly, I have done nothing wrong, so why should I be afraid of him? Second, I know some martial arts, so I'm a little confident that I could at least protect myself to somewhat a degree.

Perhaps now you're saying, "Why don't you move somewhere else so that you wouldn't worry?" Well, my friends, he is right beside me. Could this day get any worse? Suddenly, the driver piped something up. " Sorry guys, guess you have to wait for a couple of minutes because of something in the engine." Insert all our sighs.

Michael, the bad boy beside me, chuckled darkly. Yes, I know. What the crap kind of modifier is that. But I beg your pardon. You know I'm not very good with words.

Again, back to his chuckling. "At least I have you, right darling? I was like, WTF is wrong with this guy? My bitchiness went to overdrive, especially when I was having a bad day and to sum it up, I have PMS.

"Excuse me? First, I'm not your baby. Second--" I was cut off because of his stare, which I really don't get. He just muttered "Just shut up." then went back to his earphones. Well fine with me. The less talk there is, the better.

So I just went and relaxed my shoulders, which are now hunched up because I was expecting a preemptive attack from this slob. Well, how do I know he is a slob? Judging from his bag's appearance, which was full of s****y trash by the way, was messy. But I think his good looks make his mama go weak. Now I know what you're thinking. I like this guy. NOT! He is the opposite of the guys I usually like. I like organized, well-mannered, and civilised people. Unlike him. Complete OPPOSITE.

At last, here I am at my bus stop. Being seated next to the school's bad boy is not a privilege. I'm afraid that a brawl was imminent everytime he looks up and around. You should he lucky that you are not in my position.

When I got off the bus, I saw Michael waving and mouthing "Goodbye". And although he didn't smile, he winked at me. The nerve of that guy! Hope I'll never see him.

Hi there, it's me, Sam again. Guess what! He sat by my side, again. Didn't I just say that I don't want to see his smug face again? Yeah,well, the problem was HE was the one who wanted to. As usual, when the bus went its own merry way, I went up and took my usual seat: the one near the back and up the window. Assuming I was the only one, I got out my little notebook and started writing. No, it isn't a journal nor a diary. I was just writing a story. No frills. Then this one of a heck guy sat by my side. Just him sitting there is really weird because I'm not used to people sitting next to me, let alone talk to me. "Hey there." he goes. I just ignore him because I don't want nor have the time to argue with him. "Hello miss. Are you deaf or something? I just talked to you. You're kind of expected to talk back."

Closing my notebook, I turned to look at him and said, " I'm not really in a mood to actually talk to you right now. Don't you see I'm busy?" He just scoffed at me and said "What do you want to be? A writer? I can assure you that you'll only end up frustrated and end up on disgusting sites like Figment or Wattpad."

Exasperated, I turned to him and hissed with all might " What the heck is your probl with me? Can't you just f*****g leave me alone?" I didn't even notice myself curse. I usually never curse. Unless, like now, when I'm really mad. I sae a lot of heads turn around when I cussed. I looked at them bewildered, as if they don't cuss. Such hypocrites! Preparing to deliver another speech, I glance upon Michael, just to see him frown. "Beautiful girls like you shouldn't cuss. Especially you."

I don't know why, but I started to feel all tingly, as is I just applied a pack of Salonpas on my arms and legs. I just brushed it off as pure energy of my disgust towards him. " Why do you you care?" Before I knew it, the bus was already rolling. Just ninety-seconds and I am out of this hellhole. Going back to my seat, I rummaged for my notebook to scribble some more, when he suddenly grabbed it from my naked hands and started to read. "Give it back to. me!"

He just snickered. "Try and get it." When I did try to schnick ( is that a word?) it from him, he just raised his hands high. So when I was SO frustrated, I just went back to my seat, got my supposedly-for-recess tuna sandwich, and ate it grumpily. If he won't give it back, he can have it for himself. After a few moments, he gave it back to me with a satisfied grin on his face. "There's your sacrosanct notebook. Hope I didn't make you cry." A stared back at him with my hung agape. "You know the word 'sacrosanct'? Wow didn't know you can read, let alone know such words."

He laughed a little and continued "Of course I may look and act like this, but as they say 'Don't judge a book by it's cover.'"

I responded as dumfounded as I could "But you're not a book,are you?" He just chuckled and said "And I thought you were smart." Well, I am, I thought to myself. As I saw my nearing landmark signalling my alighting, I gathered my things and prepared to ring the bus bell when Michael suddenly reached for my hand and held it. I was very surprised by what he did. I looked at him questionably, with my eyes asking "What the hell are you doing?" to which he responded orally "Nothing." After that weird thing, I got off, albeit a little hurriedly because it's slightly drizzling. When I gazed back the bus, he was there staring at me as if he wanted to tell me something. Oh well, better luck next time.

Alas, here again is that time of the day when one shall ride public transport to head off at their dwelling place. Again, since I was free (no extracurriculars or anything), I was the first one to go on the bus. Just as I was about to take my notebook to write at least half-a-chapter, someone sat beside. I'm pretry damn sure that the whole bus is very much empty. Preparing to give him a piece of my mind, I swatched down my notebook and turned to him. Surprise, surprise. If it isn't Michael. MICHAEL? I eyes him suspiciously. Him seating beside me for almost a week now, consecutively I may add, is really disturbing. Did I do something wrong for this person to be *gulp*, stalking me? No, no. It's a very obscure thought. Why would a normal human being do that? Then again, we're talking about Michael here. "I know what you're thinking. Why am I always sitting next to you when you're evidently a loser." he surprisingly sputtered. I was about to rebut what he said about me being a loser, but I let it go. "I just want to be with somebody that is true to themselves, unlike those hypocrites that try to conform themselves to you, just so you won't beat them up."

"Wow, I must say I am impressed. But that doesn't mean my personal view of you will change, right?"

Sighing, he turned to me and said "Okay, here's the deal: let's have a reboot."

Eyebrows crunching, I asked "What's a reboot?" " You know, like in the movies, as if we just met each other. Okay? One--"

"But it doesn't make any--"

"Two."

"Wait, huh?"

"Three," then he suddenly inhale deeply and smiled, for the first time, revealing his perfect teeth & cute dimple marks. "I'm Michael Aranda. Nice to meet you. And you are…?"

Playing along, " I'm Samantha McBeth."

This time, he lit up like a kid who got his favorite toy from Santa, "No sh--"

"No swearing!" I interjected

"Crap!" he finished. "That is cool. Hey, you know what?" he asked me excitedly " I have a GREAT idea. Every day, since we're always by the same bus, let's tell the other a thing that they don't know about. That way, we get to know each other."

Okay, this is kind of freaking me out. This thing is coming from the mouth of one of the most feared and talked about bad boy in the school, and yet he wants to talk about secrets? What in the world has happened? Was I asleep when there happened a miracle? "How come you're all talkative and…warm? Shouldn't you be bullish or something?" He just shrugged. "Well what's the fun in that when you can't be intimidated by my good looks or charms, and by charms I mean bullying skills." I almost choke on my own spit. Did he just admit to himself that he is good-looking. Okay, he MAY be a LTTLE BIT HANDSOME, but that doesn't give him the right to be all self-adoring or anything.

"I know what you're thinking. 'This handsome jerk is a narcissst.' Well, let's just say that there's nothing wrong in stating the obvious." Because of my shock, I almost missed my bus stop. Wow, this guy's a complete a*****e. I sacastically said " Thanks for the terrifying thought." as I was getting off the bus. "Pleasure's all mine, ma'lady." he replied with a wink on his eye. What a weird kid.

The next day, I was not the first one on the bus, since I had a meeting with the school choir. Apparently, I was the only one who even knew how to play the piano, and so, I have to play the background while they're singing.

When I chanced upon the bus, I figured there was no way I'm gonna fit into it: people are literally sitting on the headrest just so that they could sit. I breathed a sigh of 'How coukd I manage this?' when suddenly, someone yelled from the back. "Hey Sam, I have a seat here." Right there and then, the usually jovial and noisy bunch of people I usually ride with became silent and divided just so that I could get through to where that thoughtful person reserved me a seat. The people parted like Moses parted the Red Sea. And voila, add that to my surprise, it was Michael who reserved me a seat. Well, I for one thought that a friend in class or an acquaintance save the seat, but no sir, it was Michael. Of all the people. "You're really full of surprises, know that?" I said to him while snickering. "What's next? A dozen roses?" I asked him jokingly.

He suddenly frowned. "Sorry, didn't know you're much of a romance person." Well, THAT was awkward. "Uh, no. It's just a joke , Michael." theb something happened. He blushed. HE, MICHAEL ARANDA, the school's baddest bad boy, blushes because of yours truly. What an award. (sarcastic there)

So as I sat, the bus went on its own merry way. Then Michael did what I hoped he would forget: he asked me a personal question. "So, start. What do you want to reveal about yourself? Remember , be honest." he added when, I think he saw me doubting. So I said to myself "What the heck. Let me pour myself." And boy did I.

"I am a weird kid. Even from the start, when my parents would tell me I'm normal, I already know I'm not." I breathed in then continued. " I'm dyslexic, that's what seperated me from the others. People would often bully me and make fun of me because of my sickness. But I've been taking some therapy as to counter it. Though not perfect, I can safely say that I've improved. Why are you looking at me like that. He's staring right through the window, with his fist clenched and jaw tightened. I was very surprised with his reaction. I was expecting more on the line of "Ahahahaha....stupid bookworm who can't read s**t." But this was a compassionate Michael Aranda that I've never seen before.

Just then, my landmark came, so I had no choice but to stand up and reach for the bell. Weird enough, Michael just st there motionless, but closely watching my every move. As awkward as it may seem, I got off the bus. Looking back at the window, he still wore that blank, emotionless face.

So next day came like a blur before my eyes-- and before I knew it, I found myself at the bus way before I am supposed to be. Perhaps because I was looking forward to hearing Michael's part of the line. You know, it wasn't fair for just me to tell my story. I am really intrigued by what he has to say.

When the moment did come that he was on-board, he was a little silent but still wore that blank expression, until he came to my side then muttered something. "Sons of b*****s."

I was a little hesistant to ask him about our little "deal" because he looks a little rough, but again, he surprised me. "What's the matter? You look a little stressed." I asked him. Normally he's just laid back, but now, he's tension personified.

"Nothing. It's just that there are things that happened. Quickly. I didn't even…never mind." he finally sighed. When he sat down beside me, thing slowly settled into the oblivion of awkwardness. Neither of us spoke for a moment, when I decided to break the silence.

"I was wonderi--"

"I think it's--" both of us stopped mid-sentences. We actually spoke at the same time. Thank you life for adding a point of awkwardness to our already weird convo.

"I was thinking it's your turn on our little secret." I finally concluded. He breathed very deeply then said "Oh, yeah. Well, let's start with the basics. I'm grew up in a broken family.

"My father was a drug addict and gave us a very hard time, especially to me and my sister. Most of the time, he's beating me up because I don't have money to give him." When he paused to see if I had any questions, I just shook my head. I was shocked with what I learned. I know that for a person you've only met to actually open up to you is really a big sign of trust he found in you. I was just speechless. Then he continued.

"I see that look on your face. Don't pity me."

"I'm not pitying you. That's the last thing that I would ever do." but before I can add anything, my bus stop sign came into sight, so I know I have a little over thirty seconds to say anything else. "I'm gonna get off now, so see you on Monday." if ever I'm gonna see you. He just nodded without even trying. So I got off the bus quickly, then headed home.

--Monday came, but Michael was nowhere to be seen. In the school that is. Perhaps he wasn't feeling well, or something came up or something. I don't know, but as I came on the bus, I saw him sitting at our usual seat. When he looked at my direction, he just smiled at me, though weakly. I was beginning to worry a bit about him. He wasn't his brawny self. Like this one time, he punched a fat kid just because he wanted to. Then pushed his face into the toilet bowl.

Beginning to feel awkward, I began to break the silence "Hi. How are you?."

"What's with the formalities? Cat got your tongue in newspeak?" then laughed heartily, which was a surprise, since he looked haughty and staunched. Suddenly, like out of nowhere, smelly students came and quickly filled the bus up. Oddly, like none before, no one occupied the seats after us. As if the bus ended before our rows of seats. But I just put nonsensical thoughts aside, thinking that probably people don't like in meddling with Michael's affairs. "So, I guess it's my turn,huh?' I began again. "Well, a deal's a deal, eh?"

I breathed in deeply, then started my spiel. "I have a little brother, named Marcus that I deeply love. But because of me, he died."

He stared at me with his deep, brown eyes, and brows crunching, as if urging me to continue. In my head, I obliged. "When he was having an bronchial asthma attack, I wasn't able to read the emergency instructions my mother wrote me in case of such instances. I cried and cried because I can't do anything. He just gasped for air until his lungs collapsed. Ergo, he died." I immediately soured at the remembrance of my dear brother's passing, but felt I had to continue, since it feels like it's a big burden unloaded from my already-heaving chest. "When my mother came from work, we both cried for Marcus' passing. Though she doesn't mention it and soothes me that it's not my fault, but I can't help but feel it sometimes: a nagging feeling telling me "It's entirely your fault, Samantha McBeth, you stupid piece of s**t.""

Michael just looked on, but said nothing. This time, I can tell from his eyes that he really meant nothing. As if on cue, my bus stop came, like it's running towards me and going to hug me. Like always, he smiled and said nothing as I got off. While walking home, I felt lighter.

Next day came like a bliss. Everything went so fast I barely had time to take it all into view. It's like I'm LOOKING forward to be in the bus with Michael. And sure was, when I went there, he was in the same spot. He smiled, this time, like he has the whole world to himself: happy and gay. You know, in a jovial way.

As I went to sit with him, I gushed at the fact that he does look a little handsome. In a wholesome kind of way. Every day, I notice some part of him is different. The day before, I saw him without his piercings. Yesterday, there wasn't a drop of eyeliner in him. I know, very emo-istic. But I do like this kind of change. Even though bit by bit, it's still change. I didn't realise I was staring into nothingness, until he waved his hand against my face. "Hey Sam, you just spaced out on me. Were you even listening, you little twat?" Well, I guess, there are somethings you cannot change. "What were you talking about?"

He sighed then shook his head, showing off his disappointment with me. I just gave him the dirty eye. "I was saying that when the beatings all got too much, I would often punch the hell out of what I'd not call my father. Once, deciding that enough is enough, I told my mom a plan: to escape that hellhome."

At the exact moment, the people almost around the bus stared at me incredulously, as if I'm losing my mind. I just told them "Back off and mind your own business." And minding their business they did. Michael just chuckled at me. "you know, you're really good at intimidating people." I just replied "That's what I get from talking to you."

Mark feigned being hurt at what I said. "You Sammy are so mean!" "Ah! Don't call me Sammy. Just go on with your story!"

Michael raised both his hands in mock defense and said " I ain't. I'll continue now, if you please." I gave him a fake curtsy bow.

"As I was saying," he continued. " My mother was very hesistant to go with me, but eventually, I convinced her enough after a night of rough beating, especially towards my sister. When we went out that night, my father caught us. Naturally, he'd just be beating us good and insulring us. But this time, he brandished an unnaturally-long knife and thrust it towards me. We battled long, but in the end, I killed him." He breathed deeply then looked at me. "So you're essentially looking at a murderer." But my thoughts were about something else. What if someone saw them? Where did they hide the body? What will happen to him when he gets caught? I was so overwhelmed with thoughts concerning him that I was beginning to forget that I was with him. I then asked a crucial question. "Where do you live?" He looked at me very long. As if scrutinizing me. Then smiled. Not widely, but just enough to let me know that he knows that I know I care. "Come, let me show you," but looked at me worriedly "Are you sure your parents are cool with this?" I just nodded. So my landmark went by. About three miles down the road, he stood up and got off together with me. We went into a little house, unruly lawn but clean inside. I settled comfortably on the sofa, then looked around. He walked around after settling his things down and walked towarda the kitchen. "What do you want? I can make something up." Not knowing exactly what I want, I went to the kitchen myself. When I got there, I see he was making some mac and cheese. I just rummaged in his fridge until I found a bottle of soda. Content with what I found, I got us some two glasses, then went back to the living room, where coincidentally, he also finished cooking.

Lounging on the sofa, with him on one side, we watched tv together. That is, until he switched it off. "Why? I was enjoying that sho-"

"Sam, I like you. I like you a lot." Well that escalated quickly. I wasn't expecting him to just be so blunt and blurt it out loud. It kind of threw me into a shock. So sudden was his declaration that before I coykd respond, he placed a soft, chaste kiss on the lips, then drew back. I just stared at him through his brown eyes, searching for what he truly meant. Without knowing it, I snaked my hand on his mape then brought him closer to my face. We kissed. At first it was slow, but it gradually turned rough and hot. But Michael was the one who stopped, knowing what could happen. After that, we just kind of stared at each other, basking in the afterglow of kissing.

-- Afterwards, he invited me to the cemetery. "I want to show you something." he said hollowly. Of course, I obliged. But before we went to the car, he got a post-it and a Sharpie. I just let it go.

Upon reaching the cemetery, we got off, then walked some distance until we were near an old oak tree. "Close your eyes. Don't open them until I tell you too, okay?" I nodded perceptibly. I closed my eyes. I heard some scribbling, evidently from the peb and paper he took. After a moment, he sighed deeply then told me "Open your eyes."

When I opened them, he was.nowhere to be found. As far as the eye can see, I didn't see a single soul. Wondering if he might be playing a trick, I glance.down to see anote. Perhaps from Michael. What I read gave me chills.

"From the moment we met, you caught my heart in a jiffy. Always remember I love you and I will be here. Love, Michael."

What? I was very confused. It doesn't make sense. Did he ditch me, leaving me all alone? I know I'm stupid to fall for him. So stupid to think that someone might actually love me. Upon taking and pocketing the note, I saw something that made my blood run cold.

"Here lies Michael Aranda. A loving, caring, and sweet son. Born September 26, 1995. Died November 15, 2012"

I couldn't believe my eyes. I took out my cellphone and looked at the calendar. Today's November 30. How come... then his words played in my head.

"From the moment we met,

you caught my heart in a jiffy.

Always remember

I love you and I will be here.

Love, Michael."

FIN