a and d-fallenbabybubu

8/12/2019 A and D-fallenbabybubu

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A and D

I noticed that some of you don't read the description. So I just wanted to clear up that this story was inspired by Taylor Swift's You Belong With Me. Now thatit's cleared up, happy reading!! :D

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Dakota:

Ugh.

I can hear his voice yelling my name, telling me to wake up. But I don t want to wake up. I just want to sleep. Can t he just leave me alone? Isn t he getting tired of waking me up every single day of High School? I mean, I get that he s a morningperson. But not all of us are. I know that he wants to wake up early for us to catch the bus to school. That s why he also wakes me up early because I sleep til late. I also don t and can t wake up early. I guess he thinks it s his job or somethingsince my parents let me skip school to get some sleep. Don t my parents rock?

Anyway, we ve been coming to school together since we were kids. After all, we live next door and we re best friends. And I don t know I guess it s become a hobby of hi

s to wake me up every morning if it s a school day. But he can t force me forever! He ll eventually get tired.

What's more, it s getting way out of hand.

So I just ignored him and went back to sleep. Besides, there s nothing he can do that will surprise me anymore. He s done literally almost every ploy to make me leave my cozy bed. I got used to every bit of it, and in the long run, I learned to ignore the tricks. Ho ho ho . . .

Sigh. He stopped yelling. Finally, some peace and quiet . . . Hmm . . . Wait a minute . . . What is that? . . . What is that unsettling loud noise?

Ugnnnhh . . . I murmured. Shut up, I moaned. No no no no. Not that song, I thought. Icovered my ears with my pillow, unsuccessfully drowning out the sound.

Stop! I complained.

But of course he isn t going to stop playing that unbearable rap song. You see, Ihate rap songs. I find rock music comforting; while rap music, I find disturbing. I don t know why. I just do. And he knows how I can t stand it. As bossy as someone like him, he just wouldn t give up.

All of a sudden, the noise became louder! As if it is in my room! Ugh! Then, I figured he must ve turned on the talkies talkies are our nickname for walkie-talkies which we plastered ours on each of our bedroom walls so we can talk to each ot

her non-stop through our windows. I can t believe he could think of something like this!

I bolted right up, dizzily grabbing my big square-rimmed glasses on the way. I turned on my talkie by the window and sleepily glared at the 6 2 lean-build seventeen-year-old guy who was wearing nothing but his jogging pants in his room. I cansee him through his bedroom window exactly across mine.

Alright, alright, I yelled through the noise. I m awake! You can stop the torture now.


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He grinned. Not until you get ready for school, he said.

Grrr. Could he be any more demanding?

Wow, I said sarcastically. I didn t know you could get that bossy, Dad.

Do I look like an old dude to you? he asked, raising an eyebrow.

Of course not. You re the most handsome guy I have ever met. But I m never going toadmit that. Not to you, anyway.

Oh, you re not? Huh. You sure as hell sounded like one, I said scornfully.

He stared at me. Who do you thinks fault it is? he asked mockingly. Just hurry up, D. Geez, it s the first day of senior year, he added shaking his head.

All the more reason not to wake up, I quickly replied. Stop the music!

C mon, stop being so melodramatic. It s just school, he shrugged, as though there wasnothing wrong with it.

Um, ehem! Just school??? Is he serious? It s like a jungle out there. And aren t his ears bleeding from that racket?

It s High School, A, I emphasized the word venomously.

Ah, yes, he said in understanding, as he walked toward his basketball and grabbedit, twirling it with his hands. The I-hate-high-school-blah-blah is here. You know, that s gotta stop. It s not that bad.

That s easy for you to say. You re popular, I muttered, looking away.

Hmmm, he pretended to think. You may be right about that. I m just kidding! He added uickly when he saw my reaction.

Whatever, jock, I said as I dragged myself to the bathroom. Well, he is a jock. Tell me when a High School Varsity Basketball Player isn t a jock, and then I won t call him that.

I suddenly stopped walking and went back to scream at the talkie.

TURN OFF THE FREAKING MUSIC, AARON!

And thank God he finally did.

Aaron:

Yeah! I knew the rap song would work. Of course it would work. Her reaction wasso funny. She didn t even see it coming. Now, this ploy would certainly last causeshe can t ever stand that kind of music. And so, she will never get used to it. I mso smart to come up with that.

I laughed out loud as I brushed my teeth. I pulled the jeans on me and wore my favorite blue three-fourths shirt. I put on my black Nike shoes, glancing through the window.


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You know, started Jason, I could never understand how you can t get tired of waking my sister up every morning. I think it s turned into a disease. Better watch out, dude.

Jason, said Mrs. Evans, as though just saying his name was a scold itself.

No, it s okay, Mrs. E, I assured her, grinning. I turned to Jason and shrugged, I don know. I guess I like the challenge of coming up with ploys. It s also fun and amusing almost all the time. My grin turned wider, remembering different irate expressions of Dakota.

Hmmm, you should better get up there, Aaron, said Mr. Evans. I don t think I hear any footsteps from her room.

I listened, and he was right.

Excuse me, I said as I left the dining room and went upstairs to her bedroom. I opened the door and she wasn t in there. I walked in, looking around. I grew suspicious. Where could she be? I gently dropped my gym bag on the floor. I walked toward the bathroom door. Slowly, I opened it.

Whoa. I shook my head in disbelief.

Dakota s still in her pajamas, a toothbrush in her mouth, and was sitting on the lavatory the top s closed. And guess what? She s asleep.

Is it possible that there s someone like her in the morning???

I sighed. She s a tough one. There s only one other way to do it. So I ran downstairs, took a very cool glass of water the Evans family were watching me curiously and went back to her room. I kneeled in front of her, placed the glass on my side, and then I softly removed her huge glasses and toothbrush from her sleeping face. I laid them on the counter. After that, I took the glass of water and stoodup. I poured the cold water on her and swiftly stepped back.

She screamed as she jumped up from surprise.

Aaron! she yelled my name as though it was some kind of bad word. I laughed. Her eyes widened as she blindly searched for me. She stretched her arms, her hands exploring the air.

Awesome, I said, nodding impressively. You quickly knew it was me.

She scoffed. No other person could be cruel enough to do something like this! Where s my glasses? she demanded in rage.

Aren t you freezing? I asked, ignoring her fury.

As if just noticing it, she shivered. So I grabbed the towel and covered her wit

h it.

If I get a cold, I ll strangle you! she threatened.

I laughed. I d like to see you try. Now, hurry up. I m the one who s gonna strangle you if we missed the bus.

I ll hurry up as soon as you give me back my glasses, she said as she held out her hand.


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I rolled my eyes. Fine, I sighed as I placed the glasses on her hand.

She quickly put it on, and when she saw me, she pinched me on the arm.

Ow, I said, widening my eyes at her. I was amused, at the same time.

She smiled sweetly which in her case, was a devilish smile. That s right. Ow. And thre s more where that came from. So get the hell out. I ll dress up so you ll stop whining.

I m not whining, I said indignantly, as she slammed the bathroom door on my face.

Dakota:

Wow. Pinching him felt good. Oh, God, I m turning into a violent person. Well, it shis fault! Pouring cold water on me isn t enjoyable. Yeah, maybe it did wake up my senses but hello! It s freaking cold! I m literally shaking.

I sighed. Whatever. I rapidly pulled on my clothes: a Sabrina sweatshirt, jumper, and Converse shoes. I wiped my glasses from moist. I brushed my teeth and washed my face. I didn t even bother to brush my hair with a comb my fingers will do.I pulled my hair into braids. And then, I m good to go.

I went out to my room. Aaron wasn t there. He must ve gone to eat breakfast while waiting for me. As I seized my things, I heard Aaron yell from the bottom of the stairs.

Dakota, speed up! We re gonna be late!

Ooh. He only calls me by full name when he s serious. And right now, he s seriouslypissed.

I grabbed the last of my things and ran downstairs. I dashed by the dining roomsaying, Bye, guys! See you later! Take care, Jason.

See you, Mr. and Mrs. E. Good luck in College, Jase, Aaron hurriedly said.And then, we ran down the street. But, I have to say, running isn t really my thing. So half-way to the bus stop, I stopped running to catch my breath.

Aaron looked over his shoulder. When he saw me stop, he turned around and walked toward me. My hands were on my knees and I can barely speak.

You re such a nerd, he sighed.

It s normal for us to call each other names Jock and Nerd, mainly.

Can t help it, I said, panting. It s in the blood.

He raised his eyebrows. Oh, is it? he said, and then he laughed sarcastically. Just then, he grabbed my hand to pull me. And we ran again.

I panicked. I didn t know what to do. He s holding my hand, for Pete s sake. Aaron Ford was holding my hand. It s fine; we re best friends, after all. And it s normal whenwe were kids. But now, it felt really strange. Okay, maybe it didn t feel any strange back then because I didn t know that I was in love with him yet. But I guess now that I m fully aware of it, my hormones were kicking everywhere especially on my hand. Yes, I m in love with my best friend who s a jock, good-looking, and probabl


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y one of the most popular guys in school. And as much as I hate to admit it, healready has a girlfriend who s a cheerleader, by the way. Typical High School love story, I know.

While me? I am not all of those things. I m not a cheerleader, beautiful, and popular. I m one of the people at school who are the butt of all jokes. Someone like me could never be popular. But I don t really care about it all. Really, I don t. It sjust that every freaking person in school keep reminding me how Aaron and I areway different and how we should never have been best friends in the first place. I know that I should be thankful that Aaron isn t blowing me off at school. But High School is not the place for two entirely different people from different cliques to be best friends. That s why I hate High School.

Not everyone has the gift of being athletic, I blabbed. It s my way of hiding my feelings. It s okay, he s used to my I-hate-high-school-blah-blah. That s why there are cliques in High School. So that people like you can join together. Duh. Of course, it s as if the athletic people have the right to make fun of people who are not as athletic or as cool as them. It s like a rule or something. But I know that it s normal for

You know, if you put your energy into running rather than speaking, we might actually make it to the bus stop in time, said Aaron, panting.

Fine, I grumbled. What else can I say? I was too distracted by his hand that was f

irmly holding mine to come up with any witty reply.We made it to the bus in time. We were out of breath when we sat at our usual seats. It may be uncool for a popular guy like Aaron to ride the bus to school, but he likes it. I don t know why exactly. He says he likes the kids in the bus. I guess he s right. The kids in here are always smiling at him, giving him all the respect and everything. But seriously, who wouldn t? He s a Basketball hero at school.

Although, that s not what I like about those kids . . . What I like about them isthat they don t care about how different Aaron and I are. They simply see us as normal teenagers and their guides or something. And that s cool.

Unfortunately, it doesn t last that long. The ride to school takes only several mi

nutes. We got there in no time at all.Aaron Ford is here! yelled someone, the moment Aaron and I climbed out of the bus.

Out of nowhere, Aaron was surrounded by his usual crowd. And I was left alone. I sighed and walked passed them. Aaron didn t see me. Not with that number of people getting his attention.

It s always like this every year. I m used to it. After not seeing Aaron for the whole summer, people at school missed him, and when school starts, they get wild and couldn t control themselves once they see him again. I don t understand their state of mind. And I don t intend to. But it s hard not be annoyed at how they act. I mean, come on! It s not as if he s a celebrity. He s just an ordinary male human, too! B

ut they can t see that. All they see is how popular Aaron is. They don t even know him. They don t know anything about him. They don t care because they already like what they see.

I groaned. My head spins whenever I try to understand why they re like that. I don t even know why I try. But I guess every person has diff

Hey, Dakota! exclaimed by the only friend I have besides Aaron.

I looked over my shoulder and saw Alyson catch up beside me. Her complexion is s


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o pretty being a half-African-American and half-British-American has its kicks.She has braided short dark hair and light brown eyes. She s an inch shorter than me, which makes her 5 4 .

She looked really excited. I smiled at her. And she beamed.

We walked side by side all the way to our lockers. I felt like I was dragging my legs to go inside the school. But there s no turning back now that I ve stepped inside.

Alyson kept telling me how she had fun in North Carolina for the summer. I mostly listened to what she was saying but it was hard to keep focus. I m nodding my head but my mind s across the hallway, which is where Aaron s locker is.

So . . . started Alyson as she waited for me to finish putting my books in my locker, How s your summer with your best friend? Was it fun? she asked me expectantly.

Alyson s the only one who knows how I truly feel for Aaron. I don t get it, but she sintrigued by our story my story. I didn t actually tell her that I m in love with my best friend.

What happened was, when she was on a sleepover at my house, she saw how Aaron and I can be very close to each other without the disruptions of his subjective friends. She observed how I acted around him, and she quickly came up with the ide

a that I like Aaron. I mean, whoa! How can you tell if you like someone just byobserving their actions? Okay, that s a stupid question. Anyway, she confronted me in order to confirm it I didn t even say anything! But she got the picture anyway.

Since then, she has this Look she gives me when she s trying to tell me somethingbut can t out loud. That means, Annabelle has arrived, about to arrive, or she s inthat area already.

If you could call being forced to wake up early instead of having a good time sleeping fun, I shrugged, then yeah, my summer with my best friend was really fun.

Ooooh. That was heavy sarcasm. But I can t help it.

Alyson gave me a sad smile.

You can drop the cynical act when you re with me, she said kindly. You know that.

Yes. I do know that.

I sighed. Yeah, I m sorry, Allie. I waited after several seconds before I continued, I had fun seriously. I always do whenever I m with him. The summer felt like old times; before High School, and before the drama. It was just plain fun.

I didn t realize that I was smiling as I said that to Alyson. She obviously noticed it, though, because she beamed at me for a long while.

I looked over my shoulder and glanced at Aaron. He s now alone with his buddies, Ethan and Luke. Aaron caught my eye and he smirked. I stuck my tongue out at himlike a kid. He actually laughed, making Ethan stare at him curiously while Lukeglanced at my direction. I hastily faced Alyson again. And I was surprised by her reaction.

She s giving me the Look.

Huh. Annabelle must be near. Of course, her boyfriend s here. And so, she must be


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here sooner or later. I sneaked a peek at her, wondering how much she turned into a Witch after the summer. And guess what? She s improved all right. Her dyed-blonde hair was shining literally. She s wearing a micromini denim skirt with fittedlong-sleeves, and boots. Looks more and more like a Witch each day. Nice.

Aaron saw Annabelle stroll toward him. He stopped laughing but he left a grin on his face. When Annabelle got close enough, she kissed him on the lips . . . !

My heartbeat accelerated. It was suddenly hard to breath. It s like; the air was vacuumed out of the hallway

Annabelle was kissing Aaron in front of me at a freaking corridor!!! And do youknow what else she did? She opened her right eye to check if I was still looking, while she s kissing Aaron! Is she freaking out of her mind? Why, yes, she is. Isn t it obvious? What s more, she s doing it to provoke me and show the entire school that she owned him.

Aaron was taken by surprise; it was clear in his eyes. Funny, isn t it? How I cansee and notice his eyes while someone is forcing herself on him? It takes lots of practice, believe me.

Anyway, I faintly heard the bell. Alyson grabbed my hand and pulled me. Wow. I m getting used to people grabbing my hand, and then suddenly pulling me away with them today. Honestly, people are so hyper on the first day.

How great. School just started and this is how it begins for me.

I glimpsed at Aaron and the Witch as I ran down the hallway with Alyson. The last I saw was Aaron gently pushing Annabelle away from his face. Heh. That s reallysweet of him.

Aaron:

"See you on second period, Aaron," said Ethan to me, as he took a thick book from his locker. "I got the moldiest luck to get Calculus for my first period. Hey,

Luke, tell me what you have for your first period."

Luke sneered at Ethan. "Reading and Study Time," he said.

I sniggered. RST - or Reading and Study Time - is a really cool period. Mrs. Roberts let us do anything we want during that time, as long as we don't leave theclassroom, which is fine by us since we can do a lot of things without leaving the classroom.

"What?" demanded Ethan in disbelief. He grabbed Luke's schedule and stared at it for the longest time. "Awe, lucky dude," he muttered.

After that, he left for his class, scowling. Luke and I exchanged amused looks.


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"I've got to bounce, too," he said, patting me on the shoulder and looking pointedly from me to Annabelle.

When Luke was out of sight, I raised my eyebrow at Annabelle.

"What?" she asked, pouting. Then, she rolled her eyes. "Oh, all right. I guess I missed you so much that I couldn't help myself." She shrugged.

I snorted. "Yeah, right."

"I did!" she said indignantly, widening her eyes. "Didn't you miss me, too?"

"Of course I did," I said automatically, frowning a little. I frowned because it

felt weird saying it. I don't know, but I think I didn't miss her at all. It'sharsh but it's true.

The summer I spent with the Dakota was like when we were kids: we were problem-free. We haven't been like that for so long. And it felt good. All we did was wake up early and ride our bikes to the nearby park. We'll, sometimes, watch the sunrise from New York City. For the rest of the day, we watched the latest movieswe illegally downloaded from the internet while we ate snacks we experimented on. Or when we're feeling like it, we rent old movies from the video store. And then for the rest of the night, we spend time talking about the movies we watchedfor the day by our windows - using the talkies, obviously. Awesome, huh? Now, th

at's life.

Annabelle isn't that type of person. She watches E! and reads gossip on any magazine she can find. She only listens to Justin Bieber and the Jonas Brothers. I couldn't even understand what's so cool about those dudes that almost all the girls are drooling over them. If Annabelle's a guy, I'd bet everything I have thathe's gay.

I came back to reality when Annabelle gave me a huge smile.

"It's time for our French," she said, kind of seductively.

"We'd better go, then," I said, slightly touching her chin for a moment.


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After saying the last word, I started walking.

Annabelle and I walked together to French class, holding hands. Only the peoplein the hallway stared. Most of the students were already inside their first periods. It's better that way. It's not that easy to greet everyone at the same time.

"Hiyah, Aaron!"

"Yo, Aaron!"

"What's up, Ford?"

"How you guys doin'?"

I greeted them in turn. I couldn't just ignore them. It's not in my nature to do so. Annabelle likes the attention, but I know she gets annoyed sometimes, too - even if she doesn't show it.

At any rate, we made it to our French class. We sat next to each other by the fourth row. Our teacher, Monsieur Delacroix, was late. That's why when he entered; he didn't get the full attention of the class. After a few minutes, the class e

ventually settled down. That's when the boredom began.

This class makes me want to snooze, I thought. Suddenly, it dawned on me. Oh, man. I'm turning into D. Ha ha . . .

A coyly smile stretched across my face. And then, Annabelle, who's seating nextto me, apparently saw me because she tossed me a note saying,

Been thinking about me?


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I slowly faced her and lightly shook my head, giving her a smirk. Annabelle's mouth immediately dropped. Soon afterwards, she kept throwing me pieces of crumpled paper. We were both laughing so hard, only we did it silently.

"Y a-t-il un problme?" asked Monsieur Delacroix, eyeing us. He meant, "Is there any problem?" in English.

Annabelle and I glanced at each other and answered, "Non." Which you might've guessed that means "No."

Whoa. It surprised me how much I missed this. I'm not in love with Annabelle oranything. But I'm truly attracted to her "debonair cheerleader" image. We're perfectly matched. She's very attracted and full of self-esteem, while I'm the same. I may seem like I'm an egocentric, but I'm just aware of what I look.

The bell rang. Finally.

"That seemed like forever," I said with solace, as I got up from my seat and followed Annabelle.

Turning to me, she said, "Looks like you'll miss me until lunch."

"I don't think so," I said, grinning. "We still have third period together."

"I know," she replied with dignity and confidence. Then, she looked at me carefully. "You are having lunch with me today, aren't you?"

She asked me that question because I always sit with Dakota every lunch hour, except when I'm sitting with the guys or with Annabelle.

"Absolutely," I answered, and then, I kissed her on the forehead. "C'mon, I'll take you to your class."


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Dakota:

Okay. An incredibly weird thing just happened minutes before the bell rang: someone talked to me. Not just an ordinary someone, as a matter of fact. He was a handsome someone.

Here's what happened:

I felt better when I regained my focus. Besides, Creative Writing is my first period. I mean, what could possibly go wrong, right? I like that class and I absolutely enjoy it.

Our first class started with Mr. Darwin - or Mr. D - introducing a transferee. Yeah, we have the same nickname. It's okay. Only Aaron calls me "D" so it's not that confusing.

Anyway, at that moment, I was so sure that the new guy would be part of the popular people as soon as he left this class. He was maybe 5'11" tall, with blonde hair. He has the kind of muscular body that gets girls my age following him around.

Ugh. Nice. They just keep on adding the popular people so that many more can torture us. Just lovely.

But then Mr. D, paired us off. And guess who he paired me with? Yup. Dwayne Richardson, the new guy. Instead of pairing me with the one person I'm comfortable with - which is Alyson, he paired me with the new addition to the athletic people. Isn't Mr. D the kindest teacher?

And so, my "partner" came near, pulling a chair next to me.

"Hi! I'm Dwayne," he said, smiling at me.

I blinked. Was it just my imagination or . . . did he just greeted me?


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"What's your name?" he asked slowly, seeing as I didn't greet him back whatsoever.

The way he asked me that was what made me come back to my senses. Do I look like I'm retarded to him?

"Dakota," I answered. The moment after I answered him, I tried to ignore him. But of course I can't do that if he keeps on talking to me. That's just what makes me crazy! Why was he talking to me?

"'Dakota,'" repeated Dwayne, lost in thought. Suddenly, he looked at me curiously. "Interesting . . ." he added.

Hmmm . . . strange . . . People at school don't usually talk to me - let alone talk nicely about my name. At least, compared to the usual bad jokes made from my

name, his comment makes it nice.

I didn't notice I was staring at him until Mr. D spoke up.

"Settle down," he told us.

I immediately turned my eyes on him, ignoring Dwayne's nice smile that's plaster

ed on his face.

When the class was finally quiet, Mr. D continued, "Now that I have paired you all up, you are to talk about your first day as a Senior High School student with your partner."

Dwayne raised his hand up. Mr. D's eyes looked around the room, and then restedon Dwayne. We were all watching at him.

"Yes, Mr. Richardson?" he asked, with a raised eyebrow - it's his way of makingus fear him. Yeah, right. Like I'm gonna fear a teacher like him. Dwayne was expressionless, though.

"I was just wondering, sir," he started, slightly frowning, "How are we supposed to talk about our first day as a 'Senior High School student' when the day barely started?"


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Mr. D looked like he expected the question all along, because he looked pleased.

"Good point," he said. "Well, then. Talk about what happened to your day so far. At the end of the day, write it on a piece of paper. It will be served as yourassignment that is due tomorrow."

"Awe," the class groaned in unison. Most of the class glared at Dwayne. But it was only for a moment, because like me, they obviously think that he's a soon-to-be popular guy.

"How's your day, Dakota?" he asked me innocently.

That's the one question that gets me hyper with irritation at that moment. My day? My day? It's freaking awesome! Can't he tell by the look I'm giving him?

I wanted to answer him with, "Oh my first day? It was freaking great. Everyone was so nice and friendly. They were kind enough to form their own cliques and isolate those who don't belong to their kind. But I'm fine with it. No big deal."

Unfortunately, I can't tell him that. That is just way too rude. Suddenly, I caught sight of Alyson, looking at me meaningfully. She was also eyeing Dwayne.

Yes, I get what she's trying to tell me.

Why are you doing nothing there? She's saying. He's talking to you, girl!

I scowled at her and turned my attention to Dwayne.

"Um, nothing new," I answered him, with a little bit of sheepish smile. Yes, I kind of smiled at him. But that's because he's kind enough to make a conversation with me. Even though I'm still skeptical about it, he was nice enough to do his part without being a jerk that I expected him to be.

"Wow," said Dwayne, mocking a surprise. "Sounds striking."


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I stared at him. Was he trying to be funny? I didn't get it.

Then, he finally said, "Just kidding."

Oh. So it was a joke.

"Anyway, school's just started," Dwayne continued, shrugging. "New things happen unexpectedly. We can't do anything but be surprised - and of course, just let things fall where they may."

I laughed. "I bet," was all I can reply to him, but I was saying it more to myself.

Since then, I look at Dwayne a bit differently than before. I can obviously hear some knowledge coming out from his mouth. However, that still doesn't prove that he's not like the others. And by "others", I mean - you know who I mean.

I glimpsed at him from the corner of my eye. He doesn't look all that bad up close. He has dark gray eyes - almost black. He even has an elegant posture, despite his muscular body.

I turned back my eyes to the blank piece of paper that was on my desk. I didn't

know how, but as I was thinking about how nice and good-looking Dwayne looks, Aaron's face popped in my mind. Everything I love about him. His bluish-green eyes, playful smile, his dark hair that seems so soft and cool in that sort of tousled style, attitude towards kids, and passion for basketball . . . I could go onand on.

Thankfully, the bell rang. Just like that, I was back to reality.

This morning just seemed so surreal. One minute, things were normal: I was the n

erd who no one talks to - with the exception of Aaron and Alyson, of course. Next thing I knew, a handsome guy was talking to me.

That's why I wasn't paying the least bit attention in Calculus class. My mind was drifting off to Dwayne and to the reason to why he talked to me. Because if he didn't want to be my partner in Creative Writing class, he can surely make up an excuse and get away with it.


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If you were me, can you pay attention in class? No. I don't think so.

Oh. Now I get it. Dwayne was being sarcastic earlier. Huh. It's totally weird when somebody else does it besides me.

Aaron:

Hmmm . . . Time passed by quickly. By Second Period, I was having the class with Ethan and Luke. The teacher introduced a transferee but the guys and I didn t pay attention because we were discussing the try-outs that will happen this afternoon.

By the Third Period, which I have with Annabelle, was Creative Writing Class. It was fine. We were given an assignment, though which is a bummer, considering that this is the first day of school. Mr. D can t just wait to distress us, can he?

And of course, I don t want to bother to say anything about Calculus because I didn t listen to a word in the discussion.

Is this the senior year that we have all anticipated? All the teachers are being all serious about college and lessons. . . I mean, we still have all year longto talk about college.

Geez, no need to pressure us into applying to Ivy League Colleges . . . not allof us are interested.

Without me noticing, it was lunch time finally. I didn t have any breakfast this morning. I can t wait to wolf down some food.

Dakota:

YES!!! It s lunch break! I am starving! My stomach was grumbling all through History class. And in that kind of quiet class, a stomach s grumble can be easily heard.

It s all Aaron s fault. He hurried me to get out of bed so much that I didn t get thechance to eat breakfast. But whatever, I m going to eat now, anyway, so it doesn t really matter much whose fault it is.

In any case, as I m grabbing a tray full of carbs Buffalo wings, Hash brown, Quart

er pounder, and a DIET coke, I am guessing that everything that has been happening to me is just a part of fate s diabolical scheme. In case you are not aware, I am destiny s new target to annoy. I m so touched.

Out of nowhere, someone gasped loudly behind my back. Her aura was so powerfully evil that I already knew who it is.

Oh, my! exclaimed by none other than the Witch Annabelle. No wonder you look like that!


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I instantly turned to her. She s staring disgustedly at my food. I didn t have to glance around the cafeteria to know that they all heard what Annabelle said.

I rolled my eyes at her. What now?

Seriously, if she s going to start teasing me about how fat I am, she s totally blind. I happen to know for a fact that I m not grossly disfigured. So, what s up with the Witch?

Go look at yourself in the mirror, pig, Annabelle whispered to me in the most cheerleader-ish voice. I d like to see you eat all of that grease. If you re lucky, you might just do the world a favor and explode.

And just like that. I snapped.

If this bothers you so much, I said with a low voice, throwing daggers at her with the use of my eyes, why don t you blame your boyfriend for being such a morning person? After all, he s the reason why I didn t eat my breakfast this morning. That s why I m eating all this grease to satisfy my appetite.

Whoa. That was so not like me. I don t usually say things like that.

Usually, I would ve said, I don t know what you re talking about. I don t have time for this nonsense. Can you just step aside and mind your own food?

But I cannot take it anymore. Yeah, like I wasn t having enough of a bad day without Annabelle doing her usual remarks about me.

Anyhow, Annabelle just blinked. She s probably just stunned that I m capable of saying things like that especially to her.

I didn t know what else to do, because she s not saying anything, so I just left her there and went over to where Alyson is seating. The students in the cafeteria are all wondering what Annabelle and I talked about because we had our little conversation quietly. And it s very obvious that they re also wondering what I said toAnnabelle to make her glare like that to me as she sat on their table.

I ignored them and turned to Alyson, who s eating her favorite Ice Cream sandwich. She s looking at me weirdly or might I say curiously.

Care on telling me what s gotten into you? Alyson asked, grinning broadly.

Starving is what happened to me, I answered, tiredly.

She nodded. People do strange things when they re hungry.

Ok, fine, I said impatiently. That Witch s getting on my nerves and I didn t have timeto be mature about dealing with her because I m starved. So can we please drop itand eat, Allie? I added, begging Alyson.

She nodded again, with an amused reaction.

Thank you.

Just as I was devouring my quarter pounder, Aaron went by our table.

I m gonna have lunch with Annabelle today, he said, smiling.

I guessed he would. I mean, it s the first day. He and Annabelle haven t seen each other all summer. Of course, they d spend time together on the first day of school.


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But it s still a bit heartbreaking to think that he s smiling about spending time with that Witch.

Hmmm . . . I wonder if Annabelle s going to tell Aaron about our chit-chat.

See you at class, Aaron told me, wiggling his eyebrows.

I think there s something wrong with your eyebrows, I said seriously, frowning a little.

Aaron rolled his eyes. And I think you ve grown fifty years old since this morning. C mon, lighten up. You re a nerd. You should be happy that school s started.

Oh, yes. I m very happy that those witches can torture me again. Wee . . . I m jumping for joy, I said very sarcastically.

Here, Aaron said as he placed a plate of sliced apple pie in front of me my favorite food of all time. Now, can you lighten up?

I knew my eyes glowed after seeing that food. I slowly pulled the plate towardme and started eating it.

What, got nothing to say? asked Aaron, because I ignored his question. He widenedhis eyes in mock surprise. Wow. That s a first.

Ssshh. I m trying to lighten up. Go away, I added, still focused on my apple pie. Man, this is freaking delicious.

I think I saw him smile widely in amusement as he left.

You re welcome, I heard Aaron say over his shoulder.

I glanced at him for a moment. I ll thank him later, I thought.

He s really sweet, Alyson blurted out, thoughtfully. I quickly looked at her. To you, especially. Being mean to him, that s your defense mechanism. You may think it s away of hiding your feelings, but the truth is, it is way obvious, girl. Why do y

ou think Annabelle s been nasty to you all this time? she added, raising an eyebrow.

Huh. I thought she s just plain evil.

Or maybe, she s just plain jealous.

I stared at her in disbelief. What could she possibly be jealous about? I paused for a moment. Then I said in realization, Oh.

Of course, I m close to her boyfriend. I m the best friend. And if the way I feel for Aaron is noticeable, then Annabelle would surely be jealous because she can t do anything about the fact that I can be close to Aaron whenever. Because duh, aga

in I m his best friend, aren t I? There s no malicious thing about it. However, she is overestimating me. I mean, she s the girlfriend.

My eyes wandered to Annabelle and Aaron s table. They re being sweet, that s for sure. Watching it makes me lose my appetite, which doesn t make sense because I m almostfinished. But that s even worse because I feel like I m going to barf.

I hate having this feeling. Ugh. Why did I have to fall for my best friend? There are gazillions of other guys to fall for. Why does it have to be him? Is thisa curse, for being a cynical person? I don t think so.


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I sighed.

If only things would change this year. If only I get to meet a guy who notices me as someone to like. If only that guy would look at me past the physical looks. If only I get to feel what it s like to be loved or even just liked. If only . ..

You okay? asked suddenly by Alyson, making me jump back into reality again.

Yeah, I said vaguely, not meeting her eyes.

Krrrriiiiiing!

There goes the bell. We better get to class. Our Physics teacher is a very strict one so we have to behave for the next hour.

So you see how bad my first day can get? I wonder how peaceful my day could ve been if I just stayed at home.

Oops, I just saw Annabelle quickly walking past me with a venomous glare, by the way. Awe, man. I hope she doesn t make a big deal out of our chit-chat at lunch.I was not myself! She should understand. People say strange things when they re hungry (got that line from Alyson). But why should I be bothered? Isn t it about tim

e that I stand up to her? . . . Nah. It s not very diplomatic and mature of me tostoop down to her level. Anyways, it s her fault for being such a provocative cheerleader/Witch.

Alyson and I got to the Physics Lab in time thank goodness.

The moment we all took our seat, Mr. Clinton paired us off to do some lab work,on the first day of school! Ugh. Today, we will do a trial assessment about a moving object s momentum. In our case, that moving thing is a golf ball.

I looked around the room and didn t see Aaron. Where is he? He knows perfectly well how strict Mr. Clinton could be.

Suddenly, the door slammed open. Aaron and Luke came in.Being late in my class is not tolerated, Mr. Ford and Mr. Wright, grumbled Mr. Cli

nton, with an expression that can make little kids run away.

Aaron, however, is expressionless. Uh-oh. I know that look.

Luke s the one who replied, We know, Mr. C. It won t happen again.

Mr. Clinton stared at them for a minute, as though searching for any signs of disobedience.

Very well, Mr. Clinton finally said. Miss Wallace, I d like you to be paired with Mr.

Wright, he told Alyson. Then, he turned to me, And Miss Evans, with Mr. Ford. This, he faced Aaron and Luke again is to make sure that both of you will behave righteously in my laboratory.

After the last word, Mr. Clinton went on to get the golf balls in the cabinet. Alyson stood up from the seat beside me, smiled sheepishly at me, and went to sit beside Luke. Aaron gazed at me as he took his seat at our counter. I tried to look away but he kept on staring at me as Mr. Clinton handed us a golf ball.

What? I asked, a bit annoyed but nervous at the same time.


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Did anything happen at lunch today? Aaron asked casually, but I can guess where he s going.

This is it. This is why he s wearing the look on his face. He s angry. Annabelle told him what happened at the jet line. And I can tell that Annabelle exaggerated on her story.

Yeah, I answered indifferently, turning my eyes on the golf ball.

Really?

Yup I ate a delicious apple pie, remember? I said all smiles.

Dakota, Aaron said my full name, making me face him again. His face is stone hard. Why did you have to tell Annabelle our ritual every morning?

You call it ritual ? I snorted, but stopped immediately when I looked at his eyes. Ifrowned. What s the big deal?

She misunderstood what you said that s the big deal, he hissed, trying not to be loud with his angry voice.

And what did I say that upset your girlfriend so much? I asked with a raised eyebr

ow.You told her that I m the reason you didn t eat breakfast this morning, he answered, s

till trying to keep his voice in whisper. She jumped to conclusions and got mad at me. We had a fight that s why I was late.

Oh. So now, he s blaming me for having a fight with Annabelle. . . Great. Just great. Everything is my fault now?

First of all, you are the reason. Second, don t blame me for snapping at her at lunch today. Third, it is absolutely not my fault that she freaking jumped to conclusions, this time, I was hissing already, too.

I m not blaming you for anything. I just wanted to ask why did you have to say that to her? It ruined our first day together.

I stared at him in disbelief. How dare he say that? I ruined their day??? How about my day no, how about my entire High School life?

You selfish jock, I said, gritting my teeth. You think that I m having such a swell day? Who do you think forced me to go to school this morning then suddenly blames me for the fight he had with his girlfriend in the afternoon?

He scowled. I already told you; I m not blaming you

Funny. You sure as hell did.

Dakota

I can t believe this, I said, cutting him off. I shook my head. You two are making such a big deal over what I said that it even ruined your precious day. Amazing. . .

That s it. This day officially sucks. There s no doubt about it.

You re right, D, Aaron said in a low voice, after a moment of silence. I


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Well, congratulations! I whispered, interrupting him. And I gotta say, even though it s rude, cutting him off like that makes me feel good. We just had the conversation that completely made this freaking day a disaster.

And with that, I picked up the golf ball and started working.

Aaron opened his mouth to speak but before he could say anything, Mr. Clinton said in a loud voice, I hate to interrupt but could the both of you please stop murmuring and start on the observation?

__________________________________________________________

I know, I know.. Annabelle's such a b**ch, but that's her character..

Aaron:

Geez, I screwed up. I didn't mean to blame Dakota. It just slipped because I was

upset. Man, I've never heard her so quiet before. But I'm counting the minutes.

When bell rang a couple of minutes ago, Dakota shot up from her seat and almostran toward the door, ignoring me.

I quickly followed her to apologize. I watched her briefly say goodbye to Alyson.

Luke caught up with me.

"What's up, dude?" he asked, concerned.

"I . . ." I trailed off, distracted as I tried to keep up with Dakota. She's not a runner so I should be able to do that in no time.

I think Luke nodded as though he understood.

"See you later at try-outs," he called over as he turned to the other direction.

Soon, I caught up with Dakota's pace.


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"C'mon, Dakota," I apologized sincerely. "I'm sorry. I just overreacted."

She gave me the look that says, "You think?" Then, she focused on out-walking me. That's okay with me. She's not that fast.

"You have to forgive me. You owe me with the apple pie. So I say this makes us even."

I have to admit, saying that isn't fair. But I'm desperate. I think it worked because she stopped walking and . . . Oh. She pulled out a dollar from her wallet. She handed it to me. I just stared. Hmm, maybe it didn't work.

"I'm not gonna take that," I told her.

That's right. No way in hell am I gonna let her pay me for that.

Dakota rolled her eyes at me, and then started walking again. I ruffled my hairas I followed her.

"Please . . . D, I'm really sorry. I'll make it up to you."

We entered RST class. Mrs. Roberts is already in her chair, engrossed in reading gossips from the internet. Dakota sat on a vacant chair in between two occupied ones. I bet she's thinking that she could get away from me if I'm not sitting beside her. So I turned to the guy on her right.

"Can I sit here?" I asked him.

"Dude, I'm already sitting. Are you blind -" he stopped talking when he looked up and saw me. He blinked as he immediately stood up and removed his bags from the chair. "Uh - sure, Aaron!"

I nodded. "Thanks," I said vaguely. I turned to Dakota, and she looked pissed. She obviously didn't expect that I would do that. I smiled. "You can't give me the cold shoulder forever, D."


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She didn't answer, just kept on ignoring me. It looks like there's no other wayfor it. . .

I sighed. "Fine," I said, leaning to her. "Name it."

She frowned in confusion, even though she still isn't looking.

"Name anything you want. I mean it."

Finally, she stared at me and scoffed. She shook her head as though she couldn't believe what she's hearing.

"Just leave me alone," she said coldly.

"And it took thirty-seven minutes for you to speak again," I said, as I glancedat my watch and counted the minutes.

"Yeah, to tell you to leave me alone, Aaron."

I gazed at her. I waited for a few seconds. She sounded like she meant it. And I think she did. I can see it in her eyes. She's seriously pissed at me.

"I won't do that."

"Why not?" she asked exasperatedly.

"'Cause you're my best friend," I said with a straight face.

She looked like she's about to mock me. But she hesitated in doing so. Maybe because she's taken off guard of how determined I am. Anyway, I'm not going to letour friendship die away like that. Although, I'm quite sure she'll get over it by tomorrow. It's just that it doesn't feel right if I leave her alone.


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"So . . . What do you want?" I asked her again.

She opened her mouth, but then closes it.

"What if I order pizza tonight, just for you?" I offered to her. Now, when I'm talking about her favorite food, she couldn't say no.

She thought about it, considering the idea.

"Two boxes of Pepperoni Pizza?" she asked me.

"Sure," I smiled.

"And . . . Mac 'n Cheese?"

"Okay."

Since we were ten years old, I've been wondering how she can eat and eat but never go fat. Beneath those large clothes, there's a hidden slender body. How did I know? Dude, to this day, I lived next door to her family since we were born. I've seen her dress all kinds of clothes. Of course, I'd know.

I swear I saw her eyes sparkle with delight when she said, "Deal."

"You sure you don't want to add more?" I teased.

"Mac 'n Cheese . . . Pizza . . . Pepperoni . . ." she mumbled, her eyes closed and smiling thoughtfully. She didn't hear what I said.

I chuckled. "I guess I'm forgiven, then."

You see, simple things can cheer her up. That's one of the things that set her apart from the others. And I'm glad she's my best friend.


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"Are you gonna meet with Allie Wallace?" I asked several minutes after the bellrang.

Dakota and I are at our lockers.

"Yeah, we're going to put up some flyers about the Movie Club," she answered, shrugging. "I'll see you later."

And with that, she left the corridor. She's just wasting their time. I mean, the Movie Club is cool but not many can see that. And the only ones interested in joining are the freshmen.

Anyhow, I went to the Boys' Locker Room to change into my Jerseys.

Ethan, Luke, and I met at by the wall of Trophies.

"I didn't actually get to ask you, man," started Luke, "How was your summer?" he asked me casually. "You know, with Dakota."

I was about to answer him when Ethan said, "C'mon, Luke. It's not like he'll have some fun with a girl like Evans." He added as if Luke was out of his mind.

"Actually," I said a-matter-of-factly, with a raised eyebrow, "it was nice. Feels like old times."

"Oh, yeah?" Ethan said skeptically. "What d'you do, study?"

"Stop it, Ethan," warned Luke, seriously.

I've never seen Luke serious. Quiet, maybe - but not this serious.


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"What?" Ethan asked indignantly. "Do you actually believe that you can have a cool afternoon with a nerd like her?"

"Yeah, I do." Luke replied calmly, his cheeks flushing.

In normal situations, I would've asked Luke what was wrong with him, flushing like that. But I was too distracted by what Ethan said.

I asked Ethan, "What did you just call her?"

He knows perfectly well that I don't like Dakota being called a 'Nerd'. I know it's a bit hypocritical of me. But I hate it when a person talks about her behind her back and says she's a nerd, even though it's true. At least, when I call her that, she's aware of it. I don't know, but I feel like I'm the only one who has the right of calling her that.

Ethan and Luke know it. And they know how furious I can get about it.

That's why Ethan looked wildly at Luke for help. But when he saw it was no use,he turned to me, looking a bit sheepishly. He's obviously thinking about lying.But then, after gazing at me, he sighed.

"Sorry, dude," he apologized, as he ruffled his hair. "It slipped out. You knowthat even though I joke about her all the time, I wouldn't call her a nerd on purpose."

I wasn't the one to keep a grudge. Besides, for someone like Ethan to apologizemeans he really is sorry. . . Or he's just really afraid of me going furious.

I rolled my eyes at him. "Whatever."

He waited for a second, and then he laughed.

"Phew," he said in relief, "that was close."


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When we got to the Boys' Locker Room, the team greeted us smugly. Then, they nodded toward a group of guys.

"They're here for try-outs," explained Nigel, from behind me. I looked over my shoulder; he's already in his shorts.

I turned to look at the guys again.

"Looks like it," I said, beginning to smile.

That group of guys has no idea how Coach can be to newbies - especially to those who're just trying out. Coach really enjoys torturing guys before they get to be part of the team. Once, I asked why, he answered, "Because they've got to earn it. Going through all that hard drills shows determination. If they've got determination, you can bet they have motivation and skills. And if they have all ofthat, Ford," Coach paused to look me in the eye, "they're worth it to be in my t

eam.""But what about respect to you, Coach?" I asked that day. It happened a year ago, back when I was still courting Annabelle. "Doesn't that count to be in your team?"

It makes me a bit confused. We all respect Coach, don't get me wrong. But it confuses me how he doesn't consider it in what he said.

My forehead creased, as I waited for his answer.

"That comes later," Coach finally said. "When they get through try-outs, it's my turn to make them respect me. Not fear me. If I succeed, they just proved to me that they're worth it."

It took me a while before I finally got what Coach was saying. And it was pretty simple: Get through my drills, and you're worth it. Respect me by not fearing me, and you prove you're worth it. Coach is pretty deep for an old man. Well, a l

ot of them are.

"They are in for a lot of hell," whispered Ethan, "with the Coach's new drills and all."

Ah, yes. I almost forgot that Coach spent the summer creating new drills for us.


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I grinned.

Man, this is going to be a hell, indeed, I thought. A hell of fun, that is.

I walked to my locker and changed, while we discussed who might be our next Captain is since George, our former Captain Ball, graduated from High School.

The team is weighing between Luke and me. But Luke insists that it's going to be me. I didn't say anything about it. I was hoping, though.

We watched as the new players lined up to try-out. There's a wicked smile on Coach's face. He made them do the drills. They were pretty easy and simple - at least, when Coach makes us do it. You see, once you get past this torment, practice

s after school will seem so easy for you. That's what so cool about finally being in the team, Coach lets you go. That's when the fun of playing Basketball begins. And you may not notice it, having fun on the court creates teamwork.

Watching them heavily sweat like that reminds me of the time when I first triedout for the team. I was not as skilled and improved like I am now back then. I wonder how hard the drills might be for me now. Back then, it was a hell. I wonder now . . .

I stood up from the bench and walked up to Coach.

"I wanna do the drills too, Coach," I said confidently. I can feel the eyes of the team boring a hole on my back.

Coach was expressionless. He stared at me for a long time. I stared back at him, not breaking eye contact. Then, he looked back at the new players, still doinga suicide. As they ran, they were looking at me in awe.

It might be my imagination; by I saw a flicker of smugness in Coach's eyes. It looked as if he's proud of me or something. But I'm not sure.

"It's your choice, Ford," Coach said, without looking at me. "But remember, once you start, you have to finish."


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"I never forget, Coach," I muttered under my breath, as I ran down to the end of the court. I think he heard me because he nodded.

He whistled, and yelled, "Jumping Jacks, five hundred. Then, let's take five. After that, continue with a thousand Jumping Jacks."

The new players groaned audibly.

As I walked by I whispered, "Don't let Coach hear you groan, fellas. Or else. .."

"Or else what?" one of them asked curiously. I recognized him as a sophomore.

"Or else he's gonna make it two thousand J jacks," I shrugged, as though it wasn't a big deal.

They widened their eyes and kept their mouth shut.

I lined up with the new players. There are just five of them. So I make us six.We needed at least three players in the team this year. The maximum is five. Ifthe new players are lucky, they might all get in.

It wasn't long before Luke joined me. He nodded to me. I nodded back - shocked me how I can do that while still jumping in the air. I glanced at Ethan; he was watching us with his mouth dropped. Then, he chuckled as he shook his head and ruffled his ash brown hair. He jumped up and joined us in no time.

"What, you guys gonna miss this good fun?" I called over to the rest of the team. They exchanged looks, shrugs, and joined us three as well.

There's no denying it now. Coach was definitely happy.

"Wow, I haven't done that for a long time," said Ethan, as he stretched his arms. We're already in the showers, enjoying the feeling of cold water pour down to


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our heads. "The hard drills, I mean."

"Yeah, it feels good," I agreed, with my eyes closed.

"What made you do that, Aaron?" Luke asked me from my right.

I shrugged. "I just wanted to test how I improved for the last couple of years.I had no idea you guys would join me."

"Of course we'd join you," said Luke, frowning a bit. "We're a team."

"And not to mention, you looked like you were having a good time," added Ethan,with a laugh.

"Frankly, at first, I was just really testing my stamina," I said, opening my eyes. "But when you guys joined in . . . Man, that's when I forgot about my stamina and just enjoyed it," I added, smiling at them.

"Now, that's what we're talking about," nodded Ethan, slamming our knuckles together.

When we were dressing up, Coach came in. He's as happy as before. He looked really happy, in fact, that he made me Captain Ball right there on the spot, in front of the team.

"That kind of leadership you have there is rare," Coach continued, "Hold on to it, son."

"I will," I promised him. "Thanks, Coach."

"No need to thank me. You deserve it."

The team congratulated me, when Coach left the Boys' Locker Room. For someone whom I deeply respect to say that to me, I'm really satisfied with whom I turned out to be in High School.


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Dakota:

Alyson and I are walking down the hallway towards the front entrance of the school. We just finished posting flyers for our Movie Club. As we neared the open doors, Alyson s mom pulled over the driveway.

Ciao! Alyson exclaimed, as she ran over to her mom s car.

It took me a second to notice Aaron leaning by the stairs railing, patiently waiting for me. He s looking down at his feet with a blank expression. That means he s thinking about something. I wonder what that something could be.

I walked down the stairs, toward him. He looked up. And when he saw me, he softly smiled. My heartbeat accelerated.

What s up with him? Smiling like that at me? Doesn t he know it s weird? Doesn t he know that that kind of smile makes me melt?

I sighed. Of course he doesn t know.

Yo, D, Aaron greeted me.

I remembered how to breathe as I greeted him back.

We went home, walking by the bike path. On the way, we talked about how teens our age are getting addicted to the internet. And how it affects how they wake upearly in the morning for school. We went on and on about it until we reached our houses.

How about you? he suddenly asked, stopping in front of our house.

What about me?

Well, you re not addicted to the internet, he explained, grinning. How come you still can t wake up early?

I m mischievous, I answered, shrugging. The more you tell me to wake up, the more I w

on t.Aaron didn t reply. He just chuckled lightly, shaking his head. I turned to our house and started walking toward the porch steps when I felt Aaron still standingexactly where I left him. I stopped my tracks and fixed my eyes on his face. Helooked sort of in pain. So I went to him. . .

D, I . . . he started, when I got close enough. You see, Annabelle s dad just boughther a car

Wait, why am I feeling like I m about to hear something . . . horrible?

and we decided that it s better if

It s cool, I quickly said, intentionally interrupting him. I didn t want to hear the rest of what he has to say. I get it. I understand. It s no big deal. You guys haveto spend more time with each other, anyway. Besides, it s not like I m gonna be upset about it.

The last sentence was definitely a lie. And I think he knew because he frowned at what I said. But what did he expect? All those years we rode the bus together. It s like, our ritual or something (I can t believe I just said that). But then, Annabelle pushed herself into our peaceful lives and it s all over.


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So why did I lie? Because I m not selfish enough to control his life for my benefit I m not like that Witch.

Anyway, I couldn t smile in front of him anymore. Pretending is hard, you know.

Later, then, I muttered, turning my back to him. I almost ran toward the house tripping on rug, as I did so.

I didn t bother to see if he s still there. All I m thinking at the moment is I need to be alone . I went to Jason s room and locked the door. I chose this room because Iknow that I ll see Aaron from my bedroom and I ll run into my parents if I went in their room. That s why Jason s is the only safe place for me including the attic, butit s dark up there.

The two boxes of Pepperoni Pizza and Mac n Cheese arrived just in time for dinner; I ate all the pizza on my own. I asked my Mom and Dad if they want some but they turned down the offer. Fine by me, I can finish eating it all on my own.

Originally, I planned to give Aaron the other box of pizza but because of the turn of events, I deserve it more than he does.

I carried the Mac n Cheese to my room. I ate it while watching the movie The Greatest . It s almost finished when . . .

Whoa. Take it easy.

I jumped in surprise. I looked out on the window across mine and saw Aaron grinning at me. I stood up and turned on the talkie.

Thanks for the chow, I said, holding out my bowl of Mac n Cheese that s one bite away from being empty.

Don t sweat it. A deal s a deal, right?

Dead on! I exclaimed, smiling brightly at him. I partly meant it.Aaron shook his head, amused. You really are a nerd.

Yeah, and this nerd has to finish watching the film.

Aren t you going to sleep yet? It s late, he added, his eyebrows furrowed.

I swallowed the last bite and said, Then, you go sleep. After all, it s late.

Fine, good night, he said as he turned off the lights. I couldn t see anything in his room.

Nightie night, I said quietly, looking down at my feet as I sat down on my windowcouch.

. . .

I love you, D.

My eyes widened as I frantically stared at his room. But then, I smiled gently.I knew what he meant. He loves me as a friend. I know he does. And I also know t


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hat there s nothing more to it that a simple love for the friendship we have.

So I said, I love you too, A.

Too bad, cause I love him and not just as a friend. It s also not just a simple love for the friendship we have. I don t just love him. . . .

I m in love with him.

Aaron:

There's something about that Dwayne Richardson that really bothers me. I can't tell what it is, exactly. But all I know is: I can't fully trust that guy.

Anyway, a week has passed since the first day back at school. Nothing happened much. It's the usual high school life. Or so I thought.

It was a few minutes ago when Dwayne Richardson caught my attention. For the pas

t week, I wasn't paying any attention to him at all. I mean, I didn't care thathe's a hunk or something. I'm a guy, those things doesn't thrill me.

It wasn't until half an hour ago before I found out that he joined the Movie Club - Dakota and Alyson's Movie Club.

The bell just rang, then. I went by Dakota and Alyson's table, holding my lunchtray in one hand.

"Hey, I'm going to have lunch with Annabelle and the guys today," I informed Dakota.

"Okay," Dakota said cheerfully.

"Later, D," I said, frowning a bit. She's not usually that cheerful.

I was about to leave when she said, "Sure, whatever," in that jolly voice again. I stared at her for a minute. Something is definitely wrong.

"Are you all right?" I asked her suspiciously.


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"Of course I am!" she said brightly, grinning at me.

Now, I'm sure of it. No sarcasm from her? That's bizarre.

Then, Dakota stood up and went to buy a soda - almost hopping on the way. I wasbemused.

Turning to Alyson, I asked with a raised eyebrow, "What's wrong with her?"

"Well," Alyson said sheepishly, hesitating. "It seems kinda nerdy . . ."

"That's normal, Allie."

"Well, you see, there's a guy that joined the club earlier today," she started."And it's awesome because it was totally unexpected."

"How?" I asked in confusion.

"Aaron, I think you know that it's almost impossible for someone to join our club when he's not a freshman."

I looked away and ruffled the back of my hair. Yup, she's right.

"I know Dakota thinks that, too. Because it's very much a shock for her that someone like Dwayne Richardson joined our 'nerd' club. Obviously, he's nowhere near a nerd," Alyson explained.

"Who?" I asked with a raised eyebrow.

Did she just say 'Dwayne Richardson'? And did she also just say that he joined the Movie Club?

"Dwayne Richardson," Alyson said the name again, "the new guy."


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Yeap, she said it, all right.

Now, here I am, sitting with Ethan, Luke, Annabelle and her friends. It was a few minutes ago when I started watching Dakota's table. It was when Richardson sat beside them. I shouldn't be bothered about it. I should be happy that someone's nice enough to sit with Dakota even though almost everyone's watching them. But seriously, no one is that nice.

And dude! He's hitting on Dakota. The way he smiles at her is more than friendly. But of course, Dakota won't notice that. Unconsciously, my knuckles are clenched. I don't know what came over me. I just felt like I had to knock that guy out.

I glanced at our table, hoping to calm myself, when I saw Luke also watching Dakota's table. He's looking at that direction attentively.

What's up with Luke lately? Whenever we're across Dakota's locker, he's always glancing in that direction. Whenever we're talking about Dakota, he seems serious and all ears. He acts as though he likes Dakota.

!!!

My eyes widened in comprehension. That's it! That's the only explanation for the way he's been acting lately. I stared at Luke across the table.

Man, Luke's into my best friend. I should be cool with it, right? I mean, he's a decent guy and all. And I'd rather him be Dakota's suitor than Richardson. Butwhy do I feel like I'm still troubled?

Hmmm . . . It must a protective feeling since Dakota's like my sister already.

Anyhow, I opened my mouth to ask Luke about it when Trixie - Annabelle's friend- gasped. We turned to her. She was looking over at Dakota's table.

"Why is Dwayne over there???" Trixie demanded. "A guy like him isn't supposed to be sitting with -" she paused to glance uneasily at me, and then she added more quietly, "- them."


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I was about to tell her to shut up on talking nastily about Dakota and Alyson like that when I realized on the back of my mind that Trixie and her posse can make Dwayne leave that table. And hopefully, he'll stop hitting on Dakota.

"Don't you think so too, Annabelle?" Trixie asked Annabelle expectantly.

Annabelle looked at Dakota's table with no reaction, and then she turned to Trixie.

"Well," she said, sneering, "it's his loss, isn't it?"

Trixie stared at Annabelle bemusedly, as if she was out of her mind.

"If you say so," said Trixie reluctantly. After a minute or so, she let it go and returned to talking about other stuff.

Man, that was close. But I'm a bit impressed at how indifferent Annabelle was talking about Dakota and the new guy. It's been a week since we've started going and leaving school together. She stopped talking about Dakota in front of me. Atleast, she tries her best to ignore the fact that I have a best friend - it's her way of keeping herself from being jealous. When we're together, it's just allabout us and our world.

I glanced one last time at Dakota before turning my attention to the people around me. I won't let this matter go that easily.

The bell rang. I kissed Annabelle goodbye and waited for the girls to leave thecafeteria. As Luke, Ethan, and I left together, I casually cleared my throat.

"Ethan," I said with a low voice. "I need you to do something."

Ethan studied me for a long moment, and then said, "You know me." He shrugged. "It depends on what it is."

"I'm sure you can handle it," I assured him with a crooked smile on my face.


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Luke kept staring at me quietly.

"C'mon, man," complained Ethan. "Stop putting me on suspense. Just tell me whatit is."

"Find out everything there is to know about Dwayne Richardson."

Physics and RST with Dakota were totally strange! She was so cheerful that it'shard to recognize her. I had no idea what's gotten into her, honestly. I don't even want to recall what happened during those two periods that I spent with her. It was as though I was with somebody else.

Can Richardson change her just like that? Just by joining her club? How much more can he change her if he starts courting her?

I closed my eyes.

Ugh. I don't want to imagine it. Well, she might turn girly from then on - but she certainly wouldn't be the same Dakota I know.

I shook my head.

People change, Aaron, a small voice reminded me. It's only a matter of time before she matures enough to be self-conscious. And you don't have any choice but to accept it. Both of you are growing up. You can't expect her to be the same boyish girl forever.

"Hey," said Ethan, as he neared us, pulling me out of my thinking. "'Got some background check on Richardson."

Luke and I closed our lockers and turned to listen. We're on our way to the Gymfor Basketball practice, when Ethan showed up at the end of the hallway.


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"He's from Beverly Hills, LA. He moved here to take care of his grandparents and stuff," Ethan paused to grimace. "Anyway, people say he's a kind, handsome, and non-athletic guy. They say he's more into art . . . ?" Ethan added slowly, as though unsure of what he's talking about. Then, he hastily shook his head. "I don't know what that means but I'm sure of one thing: that dude is gay." Ethan added, nodding.

Whoa. Richardson's too good to be true. I mean, what kind of guy would be interested in art? Seriously, there's something fishy about that dude. Although, if he's gay . . .

"But then why . . .?" I trailed off thoughtfully.

"Why what?" asked Ethan curiously.

Why does he act like he's interested in Dakota? I thought. I've seen the way he

looks at her. There's no way that he's into guys.

"No," I assured them. "He's not gay."

"How can you tell?" Ethan demanded.

"Ethan," said Luke, "just because the guy likes art doesn't mean he's gay." He shook his head and rolled his eyes.

Ethan looked skeptical. "But it's weird!" He grimaced.

Luke and I chortled.

"You know what else is weird?" Ethan asked quietly. "I swear I've seen him somewhere before. Doesn't he look so familiar to you guys?"

Luke and I thought about it for a minute.

"No," we told Ethan in unison.


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"Hmm," he mumbled thoughtfully. Then he shrugged and said, "Whatever."

Luke shook his head again at Ethan's behavior. We're used to it by now. Most ofthe time, it's amusing. But on some occasions, his childish manners are tiring.

"So, Aaron," said Luke, changing the subject, "satisfied with the info? He sounds like a nice guy." He added the last word as he leaned on his locker.

I stared at Luke for a moment. The thought of him liking Dakota came into my mind. I wanted to ask him directly about it but I might be wrong on my assumptions. Then again, his actions these past few days are odd. Plus, he seemed to be distracted by something - or probably someone.

Anyhow, I'll think about that later.

"Maybe so," I answered his question, shrugging. "It's still too early to tell."

Yeah. Nobody here knows Dwayne Richardson well enough to really know who he is.It's definitely not a good idea to judge him easily based on what Ethan found out about him.

"Why are you suddenly interested in him, anyway?" Ethan suddenly asked, confused. "Is it because he's getting close with Evans?"

I didn't answer, and looked away. They stared at me, waiting. I continued to stare at the empty corridor. Then, I sighed.

"Am I being too protective?" I asked sheepishly, turning my eye on them. I finally voiced out what was on my mind since lunch.

"No," said Luke automatically, while Ethan answered, "Yes."

"Dude, you're the best friend," said Ethan, raising an eyebrow. "Not the boyfriend."

"It's not like you told her to stay away from him," justified Luke, as he put hi


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s hands in his pockets. "You just did a little recon."

"Isn't that the same thing?" asked Ethan, frowning in confusion.

"No," replied Luke incredulously.

Ethan thought about it. There was a moment of silence before he smiled. "Oh, you're right," he said, nodding.

I sighed again. My mind is getting confused by the minute. For now, though, I'll just have to settle on taking steps one at a time.

"All right," I finally said, waving my hand as a gesture for them to stop and listen. "I'll let it go. Just . . ." I trailed off; searching the right words to s

implify the things I want them to do and at the same time, not appear overly protective.

Luke and Ethan waited attentively. I looked at them casually.

"Just make sure to keep an eye on Richardson for me," I told them conversationally, as if it's no big deal.

"Fine," said Luke amusedly, rolling his eyes.

Ethan smirked. "Easy," he snorted.

But the truth is . . . For me, it is a big deal.

* * * * *

I ruffled my hair as I entered my room, wearing a white t-shirt and pajamas. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Dakota's bedroom lights were still turned on. Isaw her stretching her arms as she yawned. She was still smiling.


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I walked toward the talkie in my room and turned it on.

"What's up with you at lunch today?" I asked her.

She jumped in startle. When she saw me, she rolled her eyes. When my question sunk in her, she frowned and turned on her talkie.

"What do you mean, A?" she asked in confusion.

"Well, you weren't your usual self," I said, shrugging. That was definitely an understatement.

"Oh," she said in understanding. "You mean, why wasn't I sulking, like the usual?"

The way she said those words so casually was mind-blowing. Seriously, who is she?

"Yeah," I replied carefully.

She shrugged and said cheerfully, "I made a friend - who joined our club, by the way."

She's grinning! Dakota Evans, grinning like a cheerleader. See what I mean? She's acting totally bizarre.

"I know," I said, composing my facial expression. "Allie told me about Richardson."

"Cool, huh?" she beamed, as she paced in her room. "I didn't expect someone like

him would join the club. He's so nice," she added, smiling gently.

I froze. I haven't seen her smile like that since . . . Junior High. That was almost four years ago. I missed that carefree smile so much - without the sarcasmand edge. And she was smiling about that Richardson. Of all the people and things, she's smiling about him. I felt the sudden urge to hunt Richardson down and beat him up.


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I shook my head in hope of washing the violent feeling away. Whoa. This protective feeling of mine is getting way out of hand.

"I've never heard you talk about someone like this before," I laughed in shock."It's so strange."

It is strange.

"Then, you better get used to it," she said, smiling playfully.

"Wow. You really like him, don't you?"

Her smile instantly vanished. Her eyes widened in surprise by what I said. She's clearly did not expect it.

"What? No," she said incredulously, looking at me as though I was out of my mind.

I decided to tease her, trying to hide my mixed feelings about this. Man, this brotherly feeling I have for her is strong.

"C'mon, he obviously likes you, too," I said, grinning.

"No." She's frowning now. "He likes Allie."

"D, have you seen the guy look at you?"

"Stop assuming, A," she scolded me. "I'm pretty sure he likes Allie. Anyway, he's just a friend - nothing more." She sounded like she was pretty sure about it.

I sighed. There's no point in arguing with her. She's so stubborn that she wouldn't believe me no matter what I say. That's one of the problems with Dakota. She never had any boyfriend in her life, not even a fling or whatsoever. So she doesn't know when someone's already hitting on her. She's so dense. Maybe that's wh


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y I get too protective of her sometimes - okay, most of the time.

"Don't worry, A," Dakota suddenly said. "You will always be my best friend," she added teasingly.

She thinks I'm jealous? I almost laughed.

"I'm not worried at all," I assured her confidently. "You see, I know that no one can replace me even if they tried."

I'm one of a kind.

"That's because no one is as cocky as you," she scoffed.

I laughed out loud. "Are you sure about that?" I asked, thinking about Ethan.

"Okay," she said thoughtfully. "Maybe Ethan Tyler's a little cockier."

"Little?"

"Whatever," she said, waving her hand. She walked toward her bed and said, "Now, good night. I'm going to bed."

I stared. I couldn't believe what I just heard.

"This early?" I asked in disbelief. "Are you really Dakota Evans?"

"No, she's been abducted by aliens," she countered, rolling her eyes as she turned to me. "You're currently talking to a cyborg," she added sarcastically.

I cannot help myself but smile. That's the Dakota I know.


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"That's more like her," I commented. "Nice imitation, cyborg."

She sat on her bed as she moaned, "Really, Aaron. I wanna sleep. I feel so tired. I didn't know being cheerful takes a lot of energy." She scowled at me as though she was blaming me. "I honestly don't know how you do it."

After that, she lied down and closed her eyes.

I chuckled. Then, mocking a realization, I said, "Hey, since you're a cheerful girl now, you could join the cheerleading squad and become a cheerleader."

Dakota instantaneously sat up and stared at me disbelievingly, her eyes wide with disgust.

"Gross!" she muttered, covering her mouth as if she wanted to puke.I laughed at her reaction.

She removed her hand from her mouth as she said cynically, "Yeah, I'm sure Annabelle will love that." With that, she went back to lying on her bed, her arms stretched.

I stopped laughing and looked away.

Well, I have no comment for that. I mean, I really don't get why Dakota and Annabelle don't like each other. Hold on, that's a lie. They're from "different worlds", like Annabelle would've said. They absolutely have nothing in common - except me. I tried to talk them into hanging out. But they disagreed - that's putting it light. What really happened was: Dakota punched me in the arm (which surprisingly hurt); and Annabelle didn't talk to me for three days. I didn't want to force them either. God knows what they will do to me if I did.

"You'll never know," I shrugged, as I went to sit by the window. I gazed at thestars. "You might end up being friends," I teased, grinning. But of course, I know that it's very improbable for that to actually happen.

"Sorry, but I'm not into Witchcraft," she muttered a-matter-of-factly.


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"What?" I asked, confused. But when I looked at her, she's already fast asleep.

I smiled and looked up the stars again.

"Sweet dreams, D."

___________________________________________________________

Dakota definitely acted so weird, didn't she?

Well, it was weird writing it.. hahaha.. XD

Ha! I've finally uploaded! Yay!

(But beware: I'm not going to upload weekly. It's not that easy to write, edit,

and come up with a good scene. However, I will try my best to be able to uploadas soon as I can. Sorry!)

A little insight for the next chapter: The meeting of Aaron and Dwayne!

I wonder how Aaron will take it. Wahahaha!!! ^_^

So what do you guys think about Luke liking Dakota?

Tell me what you guys think! :)


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Dakota:

I got up early today. I know. Weird. I'm not usually like this. But I slept early last night. Yup, that's another abnormal thing.

Aaron noticed it, too. His comment last night made me come back to my senses. Being cheerful is just not me. So I decided to come back to my usual self today.

It's been more than a week since Aaron and I stopped riding the bus to school together. But that surely didn't stop him from waking me up every freaking morning. Ha! It'll be a shock for him when he wakes up and sees that I'm not in my room.

While I dressed, I debated whether to have revenge and wake him up from his precious sleep or just let it go.

Hmmm . . . Okay, I've decided.

I went to Jason's room, directly to his closet. I dropped on my knees as I rummaged his old things. And when I saw what I was looking for, an evil grin stretched across my face. I stood up and excitedly returned to my room. I turned on the

talkie as I positioned myself in front of it.

"One, two," I mumbled, "THREE!"

With that last word I pressed the Air Horn as hard as I could. I slightly winced at the earsplitting noise it was making. I glanced at Aaron's room.

To my delight, he fell off his bed, disappearing behind the window. I can see his face being confused and his hair is messy as he hastily stood up.

I stopped pressing the Air Horn to laugh out loud. Tears were coming out of my eyes because of laughing so hard. I dropped the Air Horn because my stomach hurtfrom laughing.


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"Yeah, very funny, D," said Aaron, rubbing his eyes. He sounded half-annoyed and half-amused.

"No, it wasn't. It was hilarious!" I said through my laughs. "You should've seen your face. It was all confused and - ha ha ha ha!!"

"That was your first time waking up someone, wasn't it?" sneered Aaron with a raised eyebrow.

I instantly stopped laughing.

"Revenge is sweet," I told him.

Then, I turned my back on him. I grabbed my jacket and my bag on the way out. Before totally leaving my room, I turned around to face him and I stuck my tongueout at him - as I usually do whenever I'm feeling childish.

Now, it was his turn to laugh.

I was already in the classroom of our Creative Writing Class when the bell rang, looking incredibly bored. I turned my head towards the door just as Dwayne entered the room. He smiled at once when he saw me. I gave him a small smile - I'm still not used to having him as a friend.

Yes, I consider him as a friend since he joined the Movie club. That's the other thing. Why would he join the club? I'm not saying that it's impossible for someone in our year to join the club. It's just that - Oh, who am I kidding? Our club is the lamest and nerdiest club in school. I'm not stupid. I know that peoplein this freaking jungle call it 'Nerd club'. So why would Dwayne Richardson join

?

My - no - Our first impression on him was that he'll belong to the popular kids. His physical appearance alone says so. Although, the rumor that he's a classical art fan was a turn off for most girls, that didn't stop them from following the guy around.


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I can't stop myself from thinking that maybe his heart and soul's on the nerd side. I mean, c'mon! How many guys in High School do you know who loves art, and at the same time looks like Brad Pitt? See, where I'm going? I'm afraid to thinkthat he just joined out of pity for us. But seriously, no one would put themselves to that extreme just out of pity, right?

Wait, I know!! He must have joined the Movie club to get closer to Alyson! Yeah, that must be it. I've noticed that he likes her. As a matter of fact, they look good together. I wonder how Alyson will take it after I tell her that.

The bell suddenly rang, cutting my thoughts.

"Finish all the activities in your textbook from chapters one to three and passit next week. That's all," said Mr. D.

"Let's go?"

I looked up and saw Alyson, ready for our Calculus. I nodded in answer as I stood up. I headed toward the door where Alyson was waiting.

"See you later, Dwayne," Alyson added when I came beside her, nudging me on theribs.

"Oh, right," I muttered. Turning to Dwayne, I said, "Bye."

Dwayne smiled. He raised his right hand as if waving.

During Calculus, Alyson kept telling me that she won't be eating any ice cream sandwich for today because she wanted to try something different. I rolled my eye

s and skeptically mumbled, "Yeah, right." What can I say? I very much doubted it.

French, on the other hand, was surprising. I learned that Dwayne is fluent in speaking French. I asked him if he grew up there. Of course, I was cynical when Iasked that. But he politely answered anyway. Turns out, he learned speaking French when his family went on a Euro trip. No comment there. His family is obviously freaking rich.


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Now, here I am with Alyson in the cafeteria. Our usual table was taken, so we're trying to find another one.

"Hey, there's a vacant one over there," said Alyson as she pointed at the tableclose by the window.

Oooh. . . I like that spot.

We headed toward the table when Alyson suddenly stopped. Her eyes widened as though she was seeing a ghost.

"What is it?" I asked, a little bit worried.

She wildly looked at me. "They're serving ice cream sandwiches today!" she exclaimed.

With a sly smile I said, "I thought you said you're not going to have any."

"People say strange things when they're hungry."

I raised an eyebrow. "You rephrased it, didn't you?"

Alyson smiled sheepishly. "Go on," she said, starting to walk away. "Our seats will be taken. I'll be there in a minute."

I shook my head in amusement as I went to the vacant table. As soon as I took my seat, my eyes wandered around the cafeteria. I saw Alyson beaming on the line.

Unfortunately, I can also see Annabelle and her witches giggling. I fought a sudden urge to pour cold water on them, just to wake them up from their evil ways.But then, I thought that they're not worth thinking about so I just turned my eyes outside the window. I could see the quad from here. It's real

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