Lemon Like Love

Always

~A year later~

I bit into my apple and savored the crisp, juicy burst of flavor that flooded my mouth.

"Can you please not do that? Your saliva is all over me." Cal asked from behind the bars of his prison cell. I couldn't help but chuckle at his complaint, knowing that it was just another one of his feeble attempts to get under my skin.

"Oh, come on, Cal. You know you miss the taste of freedom," I taunted, taking another exaggerated bite of the apple. His piercing gaze met mine, filled with a mix of frustration and longing.

"I really hoped you had died that day." He sneered. I spat on his face in response to his venomous words. The saliva landed on his cheek, slowly sliding down his skin. Cal's expression turned from sneering to disgusted, but I could see a flicker of anger in his eyes.

I leaned in closer, my voice dripping with sarcasm.

"Oh, I'm sorry to disappoint you, Cal. But it seems like fate has other plans for me." I could see the rage building up inside him, his hands gripping the bars tightly.

"Also, my mother says that I have nine lives, so I guess I'll be around to haunt you for a while longer," I added, a mischievous grin spreading across my face. Cal's face turned red with anger, his grip on the bars tightening even more. I could tell that my words had hit a nerve, and for a brief moment, I felt a sense of satisfaction. I flashed him a smile.

"Have fun rotting in jail, Cal; I've got to go back and bake a cake for my boyfriend now. Tata~" I turned on my heels and walked away, relishing in the sound of his frustrated shouts echoing behind me.

I barged into my dad's cabin without even bothering to knock. He looked up from his desk, surprise evident on his face.

"What's gotten into you?" He asked, his voice laced with concern. I couldn't help but chuckle as I plopped down on the worn-out leather couch, my adrenaline still pumping through my veins.

"Oh, just another day of stirring up trouble," I replied, unable to wipe the triumphant grin off my face. My dad sighed, shaking his head in exasperation.

"Pissed off Cal again, didn't you? Can't say I'm surprised," he muttered, reaching for a mug of coffee on his desk. I watched as he took a long sip, his eyes never leaving mine. I chuckled.

"Anyways, Dad, can I get an early leave today?" I asked. He raised an eyebrow, his curiosity evident in his expression.

"What's the rush, kiddo? Planning another escapade?"

"Nah, I gotta bake a cake for Matteo's birthday tonight," I replied, a mischievous glint in my eyes.

My dad laughed, shaking his head in amusement. "Ah, the lengths you'll go to impress that boy. Alright, I'll see what I can do. Have fun" My dad pecked my forehead. I smiled, grateful for my dad's support.

"Thanks, Dad," I said, feeling a surge of excitement. I grabbed the keys to my car..my new car. I decided to de-attach my emotions from my old car since it was too worn out and I needed to let go of the memories associated with it. As I hopped into my sleek, black sports car, I couldn't help but feel a sense of liberation. This new car represented a fresh start, a symbol of my growing independence. With Matteo's birthday in mind, I started the engine and pulled out of the driveway, eager to make this day unforgettable. The wind tousled my hair as I cruised down the open road, the anticipation building within me. I couldn't wait to see the look on Matteo's face when he saw the surprise I had in store for him. Just then, my phone started ringing, interrupting my thoughts and pulling me back to reality. I quickly glanced at the screen and saw that it was Kamari calling. With a smile on my face, I answered the call.