Just A Weirdo ✓

~ 07 ~

"Run into the sunset. Remember it's just you, a meadow and chirping birds. Stay aware of the positivity around you. Let your eyes roll to the back of your mind," Ms Loyola said as she continuously caressed my shoulders. She had forced me to close my eyes and try to relax. And only then would I be able to get inspired to paint.

Honestly, I couldn't understand why she chose me. I could feel everyone watching her caress my shoulders. And I'm sure my neck and cheeks were red.

"Let your shoulders relax. Breathe in and breathe out. Open up to your surroundings," she continued. My shoulders slumped and she finally let go, much to my delight. "That's it. You should keep that in mind."

I opened my eyes and the first thing I saw was Zeke staring at me. Something about his eyes made me feel nervous. I definitely couldn't get used to that look. Never ever. He smiled and I shyly smiled back. My cheeks becoming impossibly redder, if that's even a thing.

"I have to go and dance with the ocean today," the teacher said.

Like Moana?

She strutted to the front of the classroom and smiled at the class. Her floral palazzo pants gave her a happy vibe. Too bad she was way too excited today.

"I'm giving you a project to make art that speaks about you. It can be done in any format. A painting, a collage... as long as you're comfortable," she chirped. "Oh, and before it slips my mind, you are doing it in pairs. I'm granting you the freedom to choose a partner."

She also told us the due date before sitting at her desk.

And like that, people left their seats and joined their friends. I heaved a sigh and stared down at wood of the table, chewing on my bottom lip. Thirty minutes were left before this period could end.

I'd have to do the project on my own.

"Debbie," a familiar voice said.

"Yes?" I said whilst lifting my gaze. It was Zeke.

"Do you mind doing the project with me?" he asked, his eyes noticeably waiting to gauge my reaction.

"I don't mind, but do you really want to do it with me?" Hey, a girl has to be sure.

He was amused but I could still see the confusion in his eyes. It was like he was trying to figure me out. It should have been easy because I was the easiest person to read in the world. Exaggerations aside.

"I do. You seem like the only focused person in this class. I don't think anyone wants a no-show partner," he let out. I let my elbows rest on the table and furrowed my brows at him.

How could he think I was the normal one out of all these people?

"You're right. I have to warn you though, I'm not very good at painting and stuff."

People always said that Art class was fun because they never did anything. Well, they were terribly false. I don't know how I believed that.

"You weren't bad when we were painting the fireplace tiles. Plus, you are a great team player," the words easily left his mouth. He literally complimented me two times. A foreign feeling erupted in my abdomen.

"Thanks, Zeke," I smiled and the conversation ended there.

"Are you free today?" he asked a while later.

I glanced at him and shook my head. "I have a part-time job at a bakery," I said and looked at Ms Loyola who was laughing at something she saw on her phone.

"When does your shift end?" he asked curiously.

"Why so inquisitive, huh?"

"We are going to make a project that speaks about us. I'm trying to understand you," he clarified. The way he said the word 'us' made me think of other things.