Chapter 4: The Voice of Thoughts

“I thought, do you want to move on with her? Why are you still pursuing her?” Rye asked.

Brady and Rye relaxed beside the pool, adding their feet to the cool water to feel better. There was a sparkling swimming pool to the left of their house. Brady successfully snooped through Cassie’s social media accounts while they enjoyed a beer.

Brady said, “I can’t believe what Cassie told me, man.”

“Do you think there’s a deeper reason why Cassie turned down your advances?” Rye asked. “Maybe you just can’t handle it, dude!”

Brady took his eyes off his phone and looked at something else. He carefully put the device close to the pool to make it easy to reach.

“Nah, man, that’s not what it is. After the party, Cassie seemed off in some way. The next morning, she wasted no time telling me she didn’t feel the same way. Hey buddy, didn’t you see us at that party?” Brady asked

Rye couldn't say a word because his lips were closed. He enjoyed the excellent taste of a beer, and then his attention was pulled back to Brady.

“Do you think it’s a good idea to have a conversation with Cassie to understand why she did it?” Brady asked. “I’m confused.”

Rye said, “Well, she didn’t say you could never talk to her again.”

Brady's hand trembled while holding the chilly metal container, displaying his excitement. He opened the can rapidly, and the carbonation was audible. Brady was familiar with the hops and wheat fragrance in the room. He enjoyed each sip of the creamy concoction with a grin. The rich aroma made him inhale deeply and fill his lungs with delight.

“I was so perplexed by my obnoxious sister. She’s a bit unsettling, but I don’t think we should tell our parents everything about her. Maybe they were apprehensive.” Brady said.

Rye was just casually sipping his beer when he happened to lock eyes with Brady. “I don’t see anything wrong with Khali,” Rye replied.

Brady looked at Rye and said confidently, “You’re so in love with my sister that you can’t see straight.”

Raise the cold beer glass to your tongue and savor the refreshing flavor. He coughed and gasped for oxygen when he felt uneasy in the present. Rye was chilled by Brady’s comments, which appeared to hover in the air. He was astonished. The golden liquid spewed from his nostrils, humiliating him.

Rye let out a hiss. “Hell!”

Rye closed his eyes because his nose hurt too much. Brady liked Rye’s tale since it made everyone laugh. Rye promptly brought out a neatly folded handkerchief from his pocket.

“Come on, dude; you can’t deny it. You’re totally into my sister,” Brady teases.

Rye wiped his face and spoke with a little bit of affection. “I love Khali!”

“When did that begin?” Brady asked.

He looked over at Brady. “Since I met her,” Rye said.

Brady’s pupils got more extensive, making his eyes look wider. And it seemed like he disagreed with that idea. “Are you serious? Wow, is it seriously that long? That’s unbelievable! I can’t believe it!” Brady exclaimed, completely shocked.

And even though Rye didn’t answer, he kept drinking his beer.

“Is your first love my annoying sister?” Brady asked, chuckling.

“Is that okay with you?” Rye asked, completely serious.

Brady had a big grin as he showed how satisfied he was. “Yeah, I agree. Hey, it’s you, buddy! That’s great that you like her! I don’t have to pressure you anymore, right?”

Rye scowled, clearly showing his displeasure. “What do you mean by that?”

“I just want to make sure that you’re my sister’s one and only boyfriend. I thought you didn’t like Khali, so I guess I was wrong,” Brady said, laughing.

“You’ve devised a plan for us,” Rye expressed concern. “But what if your sister doesn’t like me? Oh, it seems like she doesn’t like me at all.”

Rye is heading over to grab a beer. Brady was teasing Rye for what they said. Brady asked, “Do you think so?”

Rye said, “She doesn’t like me.”

Brady grinned and reassured, “Hey, don’t sweat it, dude. I’ve got your back if she doesn’t feel the same about you.”

Rye asked, “So, what’s your plan?”

Brady explained, “I’m thinking of giving you both sleeping pills, locking you in a room, and then telling your parents a different story about what happened to you.”

Oh, well, screw you! You’re trying to besmirch my good name, huh?" Rye couldn’t believe it and said, “No way! And your father is going to kill me!”

Brady couldn’t stop laughing. Brady grinned and said, “If I let them know that Khali is pregnant, it definitely won’t happen.”

“You’re insane, too,” Rye said. “You’re not going to help me, are you? Do you want me dead?”

Brady wouldn’t stop making fun of Rye. “Nope. Oh, it must be you! Because, you know, when I go, I feel reassured that my twin is in good hands with you.”

Rye’s eyes were fixed on Brady, and he looked carefully at his face. Although Brady’s face didn’t say much, Rye felt a chill down his back.

Rye said, “Hey, don’t say that! Dude, are you drunk or something?”

“I’m not!” Brady said. “This is what I’ve wanted to tell you for a while. I want it to be you; it must be you!”

“Why are you talking like that, huh? It seems like you might pass away soon. Please avoid using that kind of language. Man, this joke is not good!” Rye said.

“I’m not kidding, dude! Don’t hand her over to some other guy. Please keep an eye on my sister, take care of her, and show her lots of love. Hey, bro, can you promise me that you will?” Brady said

Rye looked at Brady. “Oh my goodness!” he exclaimed. “Stop messing with me.”

“I’m serious, dude. Give me your word!” Brady said.

Rye glanced over at Brady. “If I make a promise, you better not die, or I’ll curse you!” Rye said.

Brady couldn’t help but chuckle. Huh? Will you promise to care for Khali, protect and love her?"

“Sure thing, I promise! I promise you, man!” Rye exclaimed. “Are you happy with it?”

“I’m feeling so full and satisfied! Cheers!” Brady lifted the beer and enjoyed the refreshing condensation on the bottle.

Rye couldn’t help but chuckle. He just copied what Brady did. “Cheers!”

***

They just discussed meeting in the parking lot the following day. Brady was absent when Khali arrived. Brady must have departed, as class was half-day. But Rye was already there, ready for class. Rye entered the vehicle and sat in the front passenger seat smoothly. Rye and Khali gazed at one another but didn’t initiate a small chat.

Khali repeatedly contacted Brady, hoping for a response. She kept calling him, but he didn’t respond. Brady appeared silent, making Khali furious and helpless.

“Why isn’t he picking up his phone?” Khali said.

Rye was in the back seat and looked at Khali, who was busy with his phone. He looked down at his phone and saw a reflection that caught his eye. Khali was looking back at him from the screen.

Khali was annoyed as she reluctantly removed the headphones from her ears. Her actions surprised her as a flood of thoughts flooded her mind.

“Aaagh!” A faint groan escaped Khali’s lips.

Rye gracefully turned to face her companion. Khali leaned forward and bent her head low, muttering. Rye noticed Khali’s firm grasp.

Khali’s headache was so awful she feared she would vomit. Her chest moved steadily, and she breathed slowly and calmly. Her heart ached for a moment of tranquility. A few days had passed since she lost control of her thoughts. Her head was full of ideas, but one attracted her attention. She gently raised her eyes. Khali was stunned to see Rye’s face only inches away. Khali had sweat on her forehead and her cheeks. She instantly looked aside since she couldn’t meet others’ gazes.

‘I’ve been waiting for her for a few minutes. Where is she?’

While driving with Khali, they couldn’t keep their eyes off the view outside the window. Her condition deteriorated. Khali saw a notion that appeared angry. Where this voice originated was unknown. She noticed Brady and Cassie rushing down the dim corridor. They stood close, nearly touching, as if sharing a secret. Cassie aggressively leads as Brady watches from the rear. Brady couldn’t look away from Cassie, who was far away. Cassie looked downcast. She was confused as she attempted to understand.

Rye swiftly exited the vehicle and headed toward Brady, his movements deliberate.

Rye asked, “What happened?”

“Hey, can you drive, dude?” Brady asked

“Ah, of course,” Rye muttered.

Rye elegantly turned and took his seat behind the wheel. Brady, however, relaxed on the next chair, ready for the ride.

‘Why are you only now? I have been waiting for you!’

‘Sorry, but we didn’t finish the last subject on time.’

‘Liar!’

Khali’s response was one of outrage. “Oh my.”

Both Brady and Rye turned their heads simultaneously, their eyes fixed on Khali. They paid close attention, waiting to see what she would do. She felt shocked, worried, and scared all at the same time.

“Why?” said Brady.

Khali looked straight at Brady, and so many tears came down her face at that very moment. Even though Khali’s face was wet with tears, she couldn’t hold back her sobs. Both men were shocked when Khali let out a sudden cry.

“Oh, Khay, what the heck happened? What are you crying about?” Brady asked irritably.

Khali’s throat tightened, indicating her deep distress. She struggled to control her emotions so they wouldn't take over. Her breathing became short and harsh as the air thinned like she was screaming for oxygen.

‘Let me go!’

“Hmph!” Khali’s palm quickly covered her lips in horror, halting any gasps. She retreated because what she saw horrified her. Cassie heard her agonizing groaning over the air.

‘Aahhh! Damn, you!’

‘You said I was the only one, but you’re meeting someone else!’

‘There’s blood...’

‘Oh, my child!’

‘Could you explain what you mean?’

‘I am pregnant, dumbass! Aaah!’

‘You’ve got a baby?’

‘Yes, and you’re the father, you idiot!’

‘How do I become a father?’

‘You are insane! You already know you’re my first.’

‘Impossible, I’m careful! I used a condom, and you know that!’

‘Hell, let’s talk about it later. We need to bring Cassie to the hospital!’

It got their attention when a car close to them suddenly sped away. “What’s in that car? Why are they in such a hurry?” Rye asked.

Brady engaged in conversation with Khali, who had now regained her composure. What ails you? Why are you crying?" asked Brady.

With a gentle sway of her head, Khali expressed her dissent. “Nothing at all.”

“You had us worried. I am not in the mood, Khay,” he sighed heavily. “Damn it!" Brady exclaimed, his frustration palpable.

It was hushed, and Khali didn’t say anything. Her delicate hand wiped away the tears growing in her eyes and ran down her face. The person sat down properly, ensuring their back was straight and their shoulders were loose. After putting on her new headphones, she closed her eyes and got ready to listen to the music.

‘Lord, look out for Cassie and her baby.’ Khali thought.

Rye quickly looked at Khali and quickly saw herself in the rearview mirror. Rye started the engine with a strong will, and the car began to move.