BROWN EYED DEMON

As Barbara walked home, flashbacks of what happened at school stormed in her head. She was tired and stressed out already, so she just ran home, the leaves crunching beneath her feet, creating a symphony of autumn sounds. The cool breeze that brushes against her face made her feel a lot better, invigorating her senses. Her breath mingles with the crisp air, filling her lungs with the essence of the season. She really loved fall.

  Barbara finally arrived home, her heart racing from the exhilarating run. As she approached her front door, a wave of relief washed over her. Eager to release the tension, she instinctively reached out to slam the door shut. But in that split second, a memory flashed in her mind. Her younger brother, Mordecai, had been trailing behind her, trying his best to keep up.

With a sudden burst of consideration, Barbara's hand halted in mid-air, preventing the door from slamming shut. She turned around, a warm smile spreading across her face as she saw Mordecai catching his breath, his cheeks flushed with exertion.

  "Kai hurry up, you slowpoke!". Barbara yelled, shaking her head in disbelief that she forgot her brother. Mordecai sprinted as fast as his leg could carry him until he reached the doorstep, where he let out a heavy sigh of relief. Barbara playfully ruffled his hair with a mix of amusement and affection in her eyes before she opened the door.

   Barbara ran upstairs to her room, her heart pounding in her chest. With a mix of frustration and desperation, she flung open the door to her room, the sound echoing through the hallway. Collapsing onto her bed, she buried her face in the softness of her pillow, muffling a scream that threatened to escape her lips.

   "Ugh, Joel Davidson is seriously driving me crazy," Barbara muttered under her breath, her voice barely audible. Summoning every ounce of determination, she mustered the energy to peel herself off the comfort of her bed. Stripping off her clothes, she made her way to the bathroom, her mind consumed by thoughts of Joel's annoying presence. Seeking solace, she sank into the warm embrace of the bathwater, soaking away her frustrations for what felt like an eternity. Lost in her thoughts, she was abruptly interrupted by a gentle knock on the door of her sanctuary.

   "Hey Barbs, you're been in your room for ages, I'm starving". Mordecai complained grumpily and dragged his foot downstairs. Barbara's mind raced to the fact that she hadn't cooked for Mordecai yet. She noticed that she has been forgetting things easily now. 'What's with that' she thought.

  "I'll be downstairs in five". Barbara replied before she swiftly stepped out of the bath, wrapping herself in a fluffy blue towel. She picked random clothes from her closet and wore it.

  "This will do perfectly". She said looking at herself in the mirror wearing a cute knitted earthy latte coloured crop top, and a rich caramel shorts. She carefully styled her hair in two perfect buns like she always does.

Barbara headed downstairs and saw Mordecai playing video games like his life depends on it.

   "Kai, seriously, what's up? You're supposed to be buried in those books! Remember, your spot at Sugar Hill Academy was pure luck. If you don't pass this class, you'll get expelled, and trust me, nobody wants that. Oh, by the way, I'm whipping up some mouthwatering Tortilla Samosa!" Barbara said, thinking she was being nice. But her words hit Mordecai hard, and he responded with a quiet nod, silently acknowledging her words. But he was happy that she was about to cook soon.

   Barbara went to the kitchen, donned her trusty headset, and cranked up her all-time favourite playlist. She loves listening to music as she cooks.

   'Every night in my dreams, I see your face and I feel you'. She sways get body to the rhythm of the music.

  'Say you were meant to be mine, and nothing can make me loose you'. As she took the ingredients, mixing, chopping, grinding, everything following the rhythm of the music, including her body.

  'You know I want to run to you, but it is impossible, yes it's impossible'. The beats filled the air, instantly transporting her to a world of culinary creativity. With each note, she danced around the kitchen, infusing her dishes with a symphony of flavours. Music truly added that extra touch of magic to her cooking adventures.

   As she was about to put the tortilla Samosa in the oven, she felt a presence in the kitchen, she thought it was Mordecai at first but this person's aura was different. Her heart raced super fast, trying to calm herself down, she took small deep breaths.

  Barbara pick up a small table knife that was beside her, she picked it up gently so as not to raise any suspicion. She turned to see a glance of the person's face.

  "Joel Davidson!! Is that... rea....lly you?" Barbara asked almost shocked to death, pointing the knife directly at Joel's chest. She poked him a little with the knife to check if he was really there.

   "It looks like someone has been dreaming about me, Let's keep that knife in a safe zone, shall we?." Joel said, gently prying the knife from her hand. Barbara's grip tightened, and her eyes shot daggers at him. If only eyes could lethal, Joel would have been a goner by now.

  "What the fuck are you doing in my house? Are you stalking me? Are you some kind of creep? Where is my brother? Are you trying to kidnap us? I'm calling the damn police!" Barbara shouted at the top of her lungs,her voice echoing through the kitchen. As she reached for her phone on the counter, Joel grabbed her hand, stopping her.

  "First of all, stop being paranoid. And using such language in the presence of your innocent young brother, I expected more from you. Besides, when did it become a crime to visit one's classmate Miss Barbara?" Joel replied calmly with a smirk, Barbara rolled her eyes and smacked her lips in annoyance. Just as she was about to give him a piece of her mind, she noticed Mordecai peeking out from behind Joel.

    "Hey Barbs, I let him in, but you had your headphones on and couldn't hear him knock. I... saw him talking to you and you were laughing in your cafeteria, so I guessed that you.... were friends because you never laugh at my very funny jokes. I guess I misunderstood it. I.....am sorry". Mordecai voice trembled as he looked down, his eyes filled with genuine remorse. Barbara smiled, she has never seen her brother this apologetic before, she was surprised, she could tell he really meant it.

     They sorted things out, apart from the fact that Joel didn't say the reason he was here or how he knew Barbara's house. He helped in cooking the meal. It was really fun, laughter echoed through the kitchen as they playfully tossed flour at each other, leaving traces of white on their beaming faces. The aroma of their collaborative masterpiece filled the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. It was the best time Barbara had in days, since she had been buring her face in books for the longest time. They exchanged playful insults, their laughter intertwining with the clatter of utensils. It was nice.

   "OMG, it's 5:45! My all-time fave show's about to kick off. Let's get those plates ready, and dish out those mouthwatering tortilla Samosas!" Barbara's face lit up with excitement, radiating pure joy as she eagerly anticipated the start of her beloved show. The anticipation in the air added an extra layer of excitement to the already buzzing atmosphere. It was a moment of pure bliss, where delicious food and captivating entertainment merged into a perfect harmony.

     "Don't you eat in the dining room?" Joel asked as he saw Barbara and Mordecai setting the table in their living room.

    "If we eat in the dining room, how do you expect us to watch the TV? you blockhead". Barbara playfully said irritated by the question he asked. Joel was shocked as to why they don't have a television in their dining room, his house had Television in ever corner of the house, but he didn't want to ask any further questions so he just kept quiet. Barbara's favourite TV show started by 6:00, it was about mythical creatures. Joel didn't find the show interesting but just listening to Barbara ranting about the show over and over again. He liked listening to her voice so he didn't mind. 'I wish that things can remain like this forever'. Joel thought smiling as his eyes were fixed on Barbara. He took a bit of the tortilla Samosa, it is like a flavour explosion in every bite, a crispy, golden-brown exterior that cracks with each bite, revealing a tantalising filling of spiced potatoes, onions and peas. The blend of aromatic spices dances on his taste buds, leaving him craving for more. The combination of the flaky tortilla and savory filling creates a mouthwatering symphony of textures and flavours. It was like a party in his mouth and he didn't want it to end.

     It is 7:03, the show had just ended, they had finished eating and the lingering aroma of their delicious meal faintly filled the air. As Barbara and Joel stood side by side, tackling the pile of dishes, a mischievous glint sparkled in Joel's eyes. With a mischievous grin, he playfully splashed a small droplet of water onto Barbara's face. Surprised but not to be outdone, Barbara swiftly retaliated, splashing water right back at Joel. Their laughter echoed through the kitchen.

    "Barbara, when I told you that I wanted to be your friend, I truly meant it". Joel said with his piercing emerald eyes looking so calm like they have just seen an angel. Barbara let out a sigh and looked away.

   "Umm.. I apologize Joel Davidson, but that will not be possible, at least for now, I don't rush into friendships. I've only known you for a day, and I will really like it if you give me space and stop following me around in the school, it's creepy and it will only make me dislike you". Barbara said with an extremely serious expression. 

  Joel knew that she meant every single word she said, so he made up his mind to leave her alone until it's the perfect time. They finished doing the dishes and it was time for Joel to go home. Barbara walked Joel to the door and saw that Mordecai was sleeping on the couch with a book on his chest, she smiled as she walked past him.

   "Do you live alone with your brother?" Joel's serious inquiry caught Barbara off guard, causing her to raise an eyebrow in disbelief.

   "Seriously? You think I live alone with my brother?" She retorted, her tone laced with playful sarcasm. Rolling her eyes, she couldn't help but find amusement in his question.

   "Come on, Joel Davidson, use your common sense. I'm only fifteen, and it's definitely not legal for me to live on my own. You blockhead." She teased, playfully nudging him. She gestured towards the door, signalling that their conversation had come to an end.

   "I guess this is goodbye, I had fun today and the tortilla Samosa tasted like heaven." Joel said trying to flutter Barbara, she gave a faint smile that disappeared almost immediately. Joel smiled back.

    As Joel bid farewell, the sun set cast a warm glow on his confident and attractive features. Barbara's heart fluttered, her faint smile reflecting a mix of intrigue and uncertainty. The air seemed to hold its breath as Joel's words hung in the air.

    "Your dance moves," he uttered, his voice carrying a hint of awe, "they were like poetry in motion, a mesmerizing rhythm that I've never witnessed before." Barbara's eyes met his, a flicker of vulnerability shining through. Joel's smile widened, a silent invitation for her to open up. But just as quickly as the moment appeared, it vanished. Barbara gestured for him to leave, her emotions too complex to decipher. Joel's smile remained, a bittersweet farewell, as he waved and the door closed, leaving Barbara alone with her thoughts.

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          JOEL'S POV

         -------------

  I spotted Barbara's pen resting on her desk in the classroom, beckoning me with its presence. A surge of curiosity surged through me as I picked it up, feeling its weight and smooth surface. Where could she be? Determined to find her, I embarked on a mission, scouring every nook and cranny of the school.

   As I hurried through the bustling hallways, the sound of my footsteps echoed, resonating with the excitement and urgency pulsating within me. Each classroom I passed held the promise of her presence, but as I peeked inside, I only found unfamiliar faces packing their bags to go home and some just sitting on the desk talking.

   Undeterred, I pressed on, weaving my way through the labyrinthine corridors. The vibrant school environment buzzed around me, filled with the animated conversations of students and the occasional burst of laughter. Lockers adorned with colorful stickers lined the walls, reflecting the unique personalities of those who passed by.

  Turning a corner, the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked cookies wafted from the cafeteria, momentarily distracting me. The scent hung in the air, teasing my senses, but I remained focused on my quest. I couldn't let anything divert me from finding Barbara.

   Finally, I arrived at the school courtyard, a tranquil haven amidst the bustling campus. The autumn leaves, ablaze with hues of gold and crimson, rustled in the gentle breeze. The cool air carried whispers of the upcoming fall season, evoking a sense of nostalgia. I scanned the courtyard, hoping to catch a glimpse of Barbara amidst the students enjoying the serene ambiance, but she eluded me.

  As time ticked by, a flicker of disappointment crept into my heart. Had I missed her? Just as I was about to concede defeat, I spotted her two bunned hair bouncing, then i called out her name. She turned, and there she was, Barbara, her eyes sparkling. She reached out her hand, and held a little boy that smiled at her, I assumed it was her brother.

    "Kai, let's go," her voice echoed faintly in my ears as I made my way home, clutching the pen tightly in my hand. I couldn't shake off the feeling of disappointment, but I knew I had to wait until tomorrow to give it to her. The anticipation gnawed at me, making the walk home feel longer than usual.

   It had been ages since I last  walked home from school, and the sensation of my footsteps crunching the fallen leaves beneath my feet filled me with a sense of pure joy. As I strolled along, enjoying the crisp autumn air, my eyes caught sight of Barbara up ahead, running along the same path towards her house. And lo and behold, trailing closely behind her was none other than the young boy I had seen at school earlier. It was clear that he must be her brother, determinedly trying to keep pace with her. Their bond was evident, and I couldn't help but smile at the sight of their shared journey home.

     As I stealthily trailed behind Barbara, my senses heightened, and my body moved on autopilot. Every step was calculated, ensuring that not even a whisper betrayed my presence. Finally, she arrived at her doorstep, and it dawned on me that our houses were not far apart but were situated in different parts of the city. While my neighborhood was reserved for the affluent and influential, Barbara's area seemed to exude an air of exclusivity. Determined, I resolved to visit her later in the day. But I didn't head home, I had planned to go home late anyways.

    Later that day, I knocked on Barbara's door hoping for an answer. Then someone opened the door, I expected it to be Barbara but instead I saw a boy that looks like he is about 4feet 6inches tall. A charming little guy with brown hair that falls in soft waves, matching his warm brown eyes that is a little darker than Barbara's eyes. His skin has a lovely shade honey toned brown, giving him a unique and beautiful glow. He smiled at me as he opened the door, his smile is infectious, I just had to smile back.

   "You must be Barbs' new friend, I'm Mordecai Adams," the little boy said with a soft, charming voice. I couldn't help but chuckle quietly.

   "Did she mention me as her new friend?" I asked, curiosity lacing my voice with a touch of joy. He shook his head, denying any knowledge of our friendship.

    "No, she didn't say a word about you. But don't worry, she's not quite the talkative one. I saw her laughing at your jokes in the cafeteria earlier today, so I believe you two are friends," he assured me. The memory of that moment rushed back, and I couldn't help but let out a sigh of relief.

    "By the way, is she home?" I asked, my eyes widening with anticipation. He nodded, inviting me inside. I felt a wave of relief wash over me, thankful that it wasn't a big, intimidating figure that hates rich guys who answered the door, like in the movies.

   He led me into the kitchen, and there I witnessed a breathtaking sight. Barbara was gracefully dancing, her movements flowing with a captivating elegance. I couldn't help but stand there, mesmerized by her beauty and grace.

   But then, in an unexpected turn of events, my heart skipped a beat as I noticed her reach for a knife. Panic surged through me, and I instinctively wanted to step back, but before I could react, she swiftly pointed the knife towards my chest, her eyes locking onto mine. Time seemed to freeze as we both stood there, stunned by the sudden tension in the air. This was definitely not the reaction I had anticipated.

    "Joel Davidson, is... that rea.....lly you?" She asked really loudly, it almost damaged my ear. She was furious and stunned at the same time but soon enough we settled it thanks to Mordecai.

  It was now time for Barbara's favourite show, I didn't quite like it, but I liked Barbara voice, it is sweet and firm at the same time like the tortilla Samosa she made. I listened to her rant about the show till it was over, I knew that was an opportunity of a lifetime.

  I helped with the dishes, it was very hard for me because I didn't have to do the dishes at home, but I had fun with Barbara so I didn't mind. So, I decided to try my luck, I told Barbara that I truly want to be her friend.

   "Umm.. I apologize Joel Davidson, but that will not be possible, at least for now, I don't rush into friendships. I've only known you for a day, and I will really like it if you give me space and stop following me around in the school, it's creepy and it will only make me dislike you". Barbara said with an extremely serious expression, I wasn't expecting her to say that after all the fun we had today. I had a plan, I am going to stay away from her for a while and wait for the perfect time to execute the plan, I knew that what I was going to do will be very cringe, but nothing can stop me from getting what I want.

   It was finally time to go home, I really didn't want to go but i didn't have a choice this night. I said goodbye to Barbara and sighed as I walked down the street. It was already dark.

     The air carries a crispness that tickles my skin, while the leaves rustle beneath my feet, creating a soothing melody. The moon hangs low in the sky, casting a soft glow upon the world below. The scent of fallen leaves and bonfires fills the air, invoking a sense of warmth and nostalgia. As I gaze up at the starlit sky, I can't help but feel a sense of tranquility and wonder. It's a time when nature transitions, painting the world in hues of gold, orange, and red. The beauty of an autumn night is truly enchanting.

    I finally got to my house. "The biggest mansion in the city." I mumbled as I rolled my eyes and walked in, I really don't want to go home today, there has been so much tension on me lately and I don't want to deal with it this night.

  "Where did you go to Joel? And why are you coming home this late?" A familiar voice asked me sweetly as I opened the door wanting to come inside.

"And when did you suddenly start giving a damn about me, Jo...?" I retorted, my voice dripping with sarcasm and a tinge of anger. As I locked eyes with her, her hazel coloured gaze pierced through my soul, silently challenging me. My response hung in the air, and I could sense the tension building.

  "What were you about to call me?" She demanded, her voice now laced with fury. I could feel the fire within me burning brighter. My gulp was probably audible, a clear sign of my realization that I may have crossed a line.

  "Don't you dare utter that name again. My name is Hazel Davidson," She declared, her words dripping with venom. The intensity of her gaze intensified, daring me to defy her. A triumphant smirk curled upon her lips as she flicked her curled hazel-colored hair, purposely revealing one eye, and turned on her heel, walking away with a sense of satisfaction.

  "Tch, you've changed so much Jo..., Hazel," I blurted out, my frustration evident in my tone. She abruptly halted, a devilish smirk playing on her lips, relishing in my outburst.

  "You used to be my sweet, inseparable twin sister. We did everything together. But everything changed when you entered that worthless relationship with that scumbag," I continued, my anger boiling over.

  "You altered your eye colour, your hair, even your name... all because of him."

  The emotions swirled between us, tension thick in the air. This was the first time in a long time that I was being honest with her.

  "I didn't do it because of him, Joel. There are some things in this world that you simply can't comprehend," she said, her voice filled with an unexpected tranquility. In that fleeting moment, I could have sworn I caught a glimpse of regret in her eyes and heard a tinge of remorse in her voice. But like a flickering flame, it vanished almost instantly, leaving behind a mask of composure.

  "What's gotten into you, Joel? I heard you were tailing a Brown Eyed Demon all over school today. One day I'm not there, and you act like a piece of shit following a random pauper who got a scholarship." Her gaze held a hint of concern, but deep down, I knew her heart had turned dark. There was nothing I could say to change that. Just as I was about to walk away, she dropped a bombshell.

  "A little birdy told me you even went to her house today. And you purposely didn't take your car to school, so I couldn't track you, right? I wonder how thrilled Mother and Father will be when they hear about it." She said as a smile creeped on her face, walking away elegantly as always.

   It's like I shouldn't even be surprised anymore by anything she does. I should've seen it coming, someone following me. I just hope it doesn't cause any trouble for Barbara. And yeah, I decided to stay out late because Mom and Dad are finally coming home. Usually, it's just me, Hazel, the butler, and the maids. Can't say I'm a big fan of my parents either.

   "Sir Joel, I was asked to call you. Sir Davidson, asked you meet with him in the study room for a brief meeting." A butler in his late fifties said with his face adorned with subtle wrinkles but shows a lot if wisdom and patience, he wore a formal black suit with a crisp white shirt, a bowtie, and a waistcoat. He also wore white gloves and carry a tray or a towel over their arm. His attire reflects his role as a professional and attentive household staff member.

   "Seriously, Phillip? They've arrived already? Let them know I'll be there in 30 minutes," I said, a mix of frustration and anxiety in my voice. Butler Phillip nodded respectfully, bowing before taking his leave. As I pondered the situation, I couldn't shake off the lingering fear from Hazel's ominous threat. Even though this meeting wasn't in the usual conference room, I couldn't help but feel a tinge of apprehension.

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         WRITER'S POV                     --------------

   Barbara checks the time, it is 10:57, her mum will come in anytime soon. She has her face buried in her books, reading is fun to her. As she kept flipping the pages, 10minutes went by and she didn't even notice, she hears the doorbell ring. She runs downstairs with what she calls lightning speed, she clears her throat and checks the peephole and opens the door.

    "Welcome back, Mum." Barbara smiled at a vibrant and confident woman in her early forties. She has a warm smile that lights up her face and a youthful energy that radiates from her. Her brown eyes even brighter than Barbara's eyes are expressive and filled with kindness, and her brown curly hair, which she takes great care of, falls gracefully around her shoulders. Overall, she has a timeless beauty that reflects her inner strength and wisdom.

  Barbara's mom envelops her in a warm, tight embrace, showering her cheeks with affectionate kisses. Barbara, feeling a mix of embarrassment and affection, playfully squeezes her mom's face.

  "Mum, I'm not a little kid anymore,' Barbara says, her cheeks tinged with a rosy blush. But her mom simply shakes her head.

  "That doesn't stop you from being my kid." She said and the both of them chuckled quitely.

Barbara went to the kitchen and came back with a plate of leftover tortilla Samosa and a bowl of instant noodles in hand, expresses her desire to wrap up her reading for the night.

  "Mum, I really want to finish what I was reading. Goodnight, sweet dreams," she says, planting a gentle kiss on her mom's cheek. With that, Barbara heads towards her room.

  "Wait agápi mou, tell me about your first day at your new school." Her mum  insists, her voice filled with the utmost tenderness.

  "Goodnight mamá, you really should go to sleep." Barbara softly whispers as she ascends the stairs to her sanctuary, her room. Exhausted, she collapses onto her cozy bed, feeling the weight of the day lift off her shoulders.

Thanks for reading this chapter ❤️❤️

  "Family is not an important thing, it is everything."

               - Micheal J. Fox