Masks Around Me

CHAPTER 6: Missed Opportunities I

The next day, the lingering sting of the cafeteria incident still pricked at my conscience, though I tried to bury it deep. Lunch with my family unfolded in a deceptively normal, jovial atmosphere. James, my little brother, chattered incessantly about his kindergarten adventures, his bright eyes wide with excitement. Amelia, ever the doting mother, listened intently, her face alight with affectionate smiles. The scene was one of domestic bliss, a stark contrast to the turmoil churning within me.

Suddenly, the dining room door creaked open, and Henry strode in, his presence immediately commanding attention. "Edward," he called out, his voice resonating across the room. Startled, I hurriedly swallowed a mouthful of food, which, predictably, resulted in a rather undignified choking fit. James, with the innocent helpfulness only a younger sibling possesses, began enthusiastically thumping me on the back as Henry, with a chuckle, handed me a glass of water.

"Slow down there, boy," he advised, settling into his seat at the head of the table. "I just wanted to inform you about an incredible opportunity. The largest tech company in the world is holding a special program, and I've already registered you for it. There'll be an exam to select the participants. It's a fantastic chance to really dive deep into the world of technology."

"Okay," I managed between spoonfuls of water and half-chewed food, a surge of excitement mingling with a familiar wave of nervousness. "So, when's the exam?"

"In two weeks," Henry replied calmly, utterly unfazed by my sudden, wide-eyed panic. "Don't worry; you'll start taking specialized classes next week to prepare. I've already informed your school teachers that you'll be absent during that period, so there's no need to worry about missing anything important."

"TWO WEEKS?!" I exclaimed, nearly dropping my spoon in sheer disbelief. "Dad, I'm not ready for something like that!"

"Relax, Edward," Henry reassured me, his voice a steady, composed balm. "You'll have plenty of time to prepare. Just focus on your studies, absorb everything, and I promise you, everything will fall into place. You're a bright boy."

Grateful for the unexpected reprieve from regular school – and the subtle, unspoken acknowledgment that my emotional state might benefit from a change of pace – I resumed my lunch with a renewed determination. The prospect of diving into the fascinating world of technology, of learning something entirely new, began to fuel a cautious excitement within me.

Over the next two weeks, my life became a whirlwind of intense classes and rigorous study sessions. Tutors came to the mansion, filling my days with the intricacies of coding, logic, and emerging technologies. Despite the mounting pressure, Cedric remained an unwavering source of support. He'd often join me during my study breaks, offering encouragement, quizzing me on concepts, and simply providing a much-needed companionship amidst the academic intensity. His presence was a comforting reminder that not all friendships were fragile.

As the day of the exam drew nearer, an unexpected complication arose. My parents received an exclusive invitation to a prestigious party scheduled for the very same evening as my exam. Initially, they were hesitant, reluctant to leave me alone, especially with the high stakes of the upcoming test. It was Cedric, with his characteristic easygoing demeanor and quick thinking, who intervened with a solution that put everyone at ease.

"Hey, Mr. and Mrs. Windsor, there's no need to reject the invitation!" Cedric suggested, his smile reassuring. "My parents were also invited, but I actually wasn't planning on going. Edward can simply stay with me at my place. It's much closer to the party venue, too, so it works out perfectly for everyone."

Grateful for Cedric's thoughtful offer, my parents readily accepted. They left me in his capable hands, ensuring I had everything I needed, before heading off to the party with James and our trusted driver, Williams.

That evening, after a hearty and delicious dinner prepared by Cedric's warm and welcoming nanny, we settled down for a movie marathon. For a few precious hours, the looming tension of the upcoming exam faded into the background, replaced by the simple warmth of friendship and camaraderie, the flickering screen illuminating our relaxed faces.

As the movie credits rolled, I checked the time on the antique clock on Cedric's mantelpiece. It was late, far later than my usual bedtime. "I should really try to get some rest," I announced, stifling a wide yawn.

Cedric nodded in agreement, already beginning to collect the empty snack bowls and crumpled wrappers. "Yeah, good idea. I'll take care of cleaning up here and then head out myself." He flashed me a reassuring smile.

"Thanks, Cedric," I replied, a surge of genuine gratitude washing over me for his unwavering friendship. "Goodnight."

"Goodnight, Edward," Cedric echoed, his voice already fading as he disappeared into the kitchen, the sounds of clattering dishes following him.

Alone in the comfortable guest room, I tried to settle into bed, pulling the soft blankets up to my chin. But sleep, despite my exhaustion, eluded me. My mind raced, replaying complex algorithms and theoretical concepts, the weight of expectations pressing down on me with relentless force. Each tick of the clock seemed to amplify the silence, the pressure of the impending exam building with every passing minute.

Hours passed in restless anticipation, a frustrating battle against my own racing thoughts, until sheer exhaustion finally claimed me. I drifted into a fitful slumber, unaware, in my deep sleep, of the trials and betrayals that awaited me in the harsh light of morning.