Unlike You My Friend

Celia was sitting near window with her closed eyes and deep in thoughts. Tears were flowing but she was exceptionally calm. She was just thinking about her past, evaluating everything. She always believed that life is not bed of roses, so she never discouraged by any bad situation. No matter what life thrown on her face, she remained unaffected. But this time, she was shattered.

When she was deep in her thoughts, her phone rang. She looked at the phone and it was from Reuben, her friend. She chuckled at the memory when she proposed him. How stupid i was then - thought to herself. He was her childhood friend. Although he rejected her, they both managed to establish a good friendship. Reuben was a practical and focused man. He barely chit chat with anyone, but in times of need, he always fulfil his role as a friend. When he called she doubted that he knew anything or not, so after giving a thought, she picked up the phone.

Hello, where are you - said Reuben hurriedly.

I..... I'm at home - stammered Celia.

what happened, you aren't sounding well - asked Reuben.

I'm sick - She lied.

Well, if that so, then take care of yourself champ. The reason for calling you was as usual your precious notes. But as you aren't well, i will borrow it from you some other time - said Reuben.

Ammm... I am bit sick but you can come and take the notes - said Celia calmly.

How will i manage to live without you my champ. I am coming in half an hour. I won't stay long. Thank you and love you - Reuben said before cutting the line from his side.

After that she stood up and went in front of mirror to see her reflection. Her hair was a mess and her eyes were turned red due to constant weeping from 24 hours. She looked horribly bad. If Reuben will see me in this state, he would probably suspect. So as always she subsided her emotions and prepared herself to face Reuben without telling him the whole thing.

As Reuben said, he came after half an hour. After seeing Celia he said, who are you and what have you done with my champ?

She said - Stop being melodramatic, it doesn't suit you. Take the notes and leave.

Aren't you being so mean? - said Reuben.

I am not being mean. I know you are a busy person and barely stay for 5 minutes - said Celia matter-of-factly.

What happened - said Reuben looking straight into her eyes. His sudden intimidating interrogation startled her.

I told you I am sick - said Celia defendingly.

Veronica messaged me last night - said Reuben.

So he do know everything!

Fuck her - Celia cursed under her breath.

Come, let's go somewhere to talk, what about your terrace - Reuben suggested.

She was surprised because he never really cared about what happening in Celia's life. He never really listened her thoughts and Celia never blamed him for it because she knew and understand him like no other can.

She was too tired to argue. She simply nodded and they went to terrace.

They stand there for almost 15 minutes in silence. No one dared to utter a word. It was like they were trying to figure out things by reading each other's thought.

Celia was first to broke the silence.

She said - I am fine Reuben, you don't have to bother yourself because of me.

Bother myself? - Reuben stared at her.

There was disbelieve written on his face. How could you just say that? Didn't I tell you that you are the most precious gift for me? You are the only person for whom i care about. You hurt me deeply - said Reuben.

Okay I'm sorry. You know I am just..

Celia was at loss of words.

I really never expected your care so i was just... And I dont want to distract you from your work - said Celia honestly.

Do I have to repeat it again? You are my only friend. If something happen to you, it will also affect me. You know I am not good at showing my emotions so I can't make you believe how much you matter for me. Seeing you in this state give me heartache. My feelings for you is genuine because you are the most genuine person who possess very pure, raw, kind and untainted heart. I hope you understand - said Reuben.

Celia hugged Reuben and cried. He was holding her like a precious delicate flower. He never showed this side of him. When her pain eased, she said - I had never came across this side of yours. It's unlike you. Thank you for everything.