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Gorgeous GeekChapter XXXV: Hopelessly Fruity

Chapter XXXV: Hopelessly Fruity

Watching television, Jennifer rolled around on her bed in a fit of laughter at the cartoon. At home, she rarely tied her hair up in a ponytail soshe had her dark hair flowing down her shoulders. She was wearing her pajamasand eating jello. Her sheets and blankets were a bright yellow color. Besidesthat, her entire room is of a nice pearl color. She had a closet full of clothesand a second closet full of purses. There were half-finished over her desk nextto her laptop. A bible sat alone on Jennifer's pillow.

"It's over already?" asked Jennifer sadly, turning off her television andlaying down on her bed with a frown on her face. She thought the following toherself. "I wonder what Faith is doing right now. I can't believe I moved on fromJin to Faith right when Jin became popular. What timing!"

Thinking of Faith winking at her in a dark suit, Jennifer squealed indelight and jumped up straight on her feet. She had to call Eunice to chat orelse she would explode. Hurriedly, Jennifer called Eunice who picked upimmediately. The other girl said she was busy arranging the photographs shecollected for the Yearbook so far.

"But it's so early," said Jennifer, gasping."I need to take lots of pictures of the sports team who are playing next

week," said Eunice in answer to Jennifer's ignorance. "You want to know aboutthe swimming team right?" Jennifer flushed bright red and shook her head, butof course, Eunice couldn't see. "The swimming team have a home game inMarch. I am so cheering for them! Our swim team hasn't lost in league forthirty-three years!"

"That's so far away though," said Jennifer, pouting and not listening toanything after March. "What sports team are playing in the fall anyway? I cannever remember..."

"And you're on the Hitching Post?" asked Eunice, giggling at her friend."Be quiet you," said Jennifer, drumming her fingers against her cheek

impatiently. "Just tell me please Eunie?""Football's first game is next Friday," said Eunice in an knowledgeable

voice. Jennifer laughed at her friend's sense of humor. "Girls' volleyball andgirls' tennis are starting next week too. Volleyball is on Tuesday home court andtennis is on Monday away. Oh there's also girls' golf and-"

"Girls' tennis," said Jennifer slowly. "Isn't Jin manager?""I think?" asked Eunice, uncertain. "I didn't see him at practice today.""Jin is amazing," said Jennifer softly to herself. Eunice asked her to

repeat. "I said Jin is really cool. Everyone knows him as the pretty guy that hasno social life before but is super nice. Now, everyone knows him for his name."

"It's so weird," said Eunice in awe. "Just a few days ago, he was just Jin.Now, he is the 'Gorgeous Geek' and all that hype. Plus, a lot of people havecame up to dig up dirt on Jin. It's kind of disgusting!"

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"That's what happens once someone becomes popular," said Jennifer,shrugging.

"But you know what the funny thing is?" asked Eunice, giggling."What?""There is little to no real dirt on Jin. Isn't that weird?"

Hugging her pillow, Jennifer laid down on her bed. "It's not weird at allto me. It is actually expected of Jin..." Jennifer had a mental image of Jinglancing over his shoulder in Spanish at her and smiling. "A popular person withno dirt... how does that work?"

"It doesn't," said Eunice, turning on the music. "Let's talk aboutsomething else now!"

Jennifer grimaced. "Sure." She had forgotten all about Faith whiletalking about Jin.

**************************************************Walking inside Wilson High at this hour, Wendy felt the chill down her

spine. After she went home for a while, she couldn't find her basket of fruits

anywhere. She was sure she took it home with her after Jezebelle gave it backto her. Even though she didn't like fruits and vegetables, she could always giveit to her parents. The only place where it could be was the girls' locker room.On her way toward the girls' locker room, Wendy noticed that the door to thegym was open. It should be locked by now. Curiously, Wendy poked her headinside the lit gym to find a single person practicing basketball by himself.

Still in his basketball clothes, Cash was busy shooting free throws byhimself with his basketball. Wendy watched as he made every single shot.Admittedly, she knew that Cash carried a basketball with him to school but heusually left it in his locker. This was the first time she caught him using it. As abasketball player and fan, Wendy could not remove her eyes from him shooting

free throws. Suddenly, his last attempt failed. Cash caught the basketball,cursed, and threw it against the wall instead."Fuck," said Cash, watching his basketball roll farther away from him. "I'll

never beat Jordan this way...""How pessimistic," said Wendy, walking inside and picking up the

basketball. She decided to move on her own after she heard that he wanted tobeat Jordan. "You'll never become a better basketball player with thatattitude."

Cash chuckled to himself. "Did you come here to laugh at me?" Much toWendy's surprise, he pointed at a basket in the corner of the gym. "You leftsomething behind."

"That's where it is," said Wendy under her breath so Cash couldn't hear.Wendy went over to him and handed the basketball. "Do you usually stay hereafter practice ends?"

"Does it matter to you?" asked Cash defensively.Wendy smirked. "Not really. Just curious.""I thought so," said Cash, leaving her side and returning to the free throw

line. "What about you? Do you usually wear basketball shorts and jersey outsideof practice?"

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"No, he doesn't," said Wendy in a cold voice."Come on now," said Cash, smiling. "Don't be such a bitch.""I don't want to hear that from you."Cash sighed and ignored her. "So he doesn't practice often.""That's because..." said Wendy, starting off when she realized who she

was talking to. "Never mind. He has his reasons.""Hey," said Cash, trying hard to smile at Wendy. "What's so great aboutJordan?"

"What?""Obviously, you're still in love with him," said Cash, leaning toward her.

"At least, tell me why you like him. Maybe then I'll have a chance of winningyou over."

Wendy glanced away. "He's... handsome.""How shallow.""Shut up," said Wendy, frustrated. "I don't even know why. I can't explain

it. The first time I met him, he looked so sad. So lonely." Cash widened his eyes

at this info. "He looks like he's fed up with the world. How can someone sogood-looking possibly be sad? Prettier people are usually happier aren't they?"Or so it seems," said Cash quickly."I thought that maybe," said Wendy, biting his lip. "Maybe I can help

him...""How cheesy."Wendy threw the basketball back to Cash. "It's lame. I know.""It is lame," said Cash, agreeing with her. "I hate it when women think

they can change a man. What right do they think they have?" Wendy sighed."More importantly, how can you possibly even think of changing him when youcannot stay true to yourself first?"

"I know," said Wendy, turning her back to him. "I'm wrong okay? Leave mealone.""Don't be down, Wendy," said Cash, grinning now. "I don't have emotional

problems like Jordan. I can give you a fun time if you choose me." Wendy madea loud snorting sound. "What's so funny?"

"You have a lot of problems.""Like what?"Wendy whirled around and smirked at him. "You have a grudge against

Jordan.""I don't really call that a problem, sweet heart," said Cash, amused. "A

bit competitive and a bit ambitious maybe?"

"How will you prove yourself to Jordan then? Please enlighten me."Cash indicated at the banners of the several times Wilson High wonleague. "We haven't won league in years. We've always been close but a littleshort of the real prize." Cash nodded firmly. "That's my goal. I want to do mybest and win league this year. Then, maybe next year, when Eddie graduates, Ican take his place as team captain and be a better one than Jordan."

"That's not a bit ambitious," said Wendy, pointing out. "That's very ambitious. We haven't won league in ten years, Cash."

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"That's because I was on the sophomore team until this year.""Oh man," said Wendy, amused. "You think you yourself can change

everything?""Why the hell not?"At Cash's question, Wendy started her usual laughing fit. She managed to

stop and look at him with a shake of her head. Finally, she went up to him andindicated at the basketball he had been holding all this time."Let's play some real basketball then," said Wendy with a mischievous

look on her face. Cash lifted a brow. "One on one. Me against you.""Are you kidding me? You're a girl.""Don't underestimate me," said Wendy, sticking out her tongue."If you lose," said Cash, readying himself now. "Don't come crying to me.""I'm not planning to cry or lose, Cash.""That's so like you," said Cash, dribbling the ball now. "Do you know why I

like you?""Because you want to date me to get back at Jordan?"

"Wrong," said Cash, gazing at her intently. "That's the reason why I wantto date you, true, but that's not why I like you." Cash smiled gently at Wendy."It's because you voted against Jordan becoming team captain. Even if it wasfor a personal reason, I still respect that. Let's have a nice match then, NumberSeven."

Wendy returned the smile. "Back at you, Number Thirty-Nine."********************************************

In the middle of the neighborhood, Rin felt like she had been wanderingaround the area forever. She couldn't recognize street names. She couldn'trecognize buildings or houses either. During her mindless walk, Rin was aboutto cry since no one could see her but then her phone started ringing. Much to

Rin's surprise, she didn't expect to see this number again so soon."H-Hello?" asked Rin, stuttering."Rin-chan, where are you?""Jin!" cried Rin, bursting into tears. "I don't know where I am!""I just got home," said Jin on the other line. He was trying to stay cool

for her. "You stay put. Don't move anywhere. Do you have any idea where youare?"

Rin shook her head, "No.""Rin-chan, check for cross streets.""O-Okay..."After telling Jin the street closest to her, Jin muttered something about

it not being a major street. Rin felt hopeless. Even though she was lost, shedidn't want to call anyone. She was mad at Kristian so her pride prevented herfrom calling Kristian. She didn't want to bother her mother or Bo over hercarelessness. Crouching down on the ground, Rin continued to cry. She wastrying to be strong but after hearing Jin's voice, she let it all out.

"Rin-chan," said Jin softly. "Kristian will go get you.""Why can't you go find me..." said Rin before she could stop herself."Because Fi is gone and," said Jin, realizing that was probably the wrong

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thing to say. "I mean because Kristian is your boyfriend right?"Rin blinked in realization. "He is...""He is even more worried about you than I am.""He is?" asked Rin weakly. "But he must be mad at me.""Why would you say that?" asked Jin in disbelief. "When he called me

about you, he tried to act cool but I can tell he was losing his mind at yourdisappearance. It doesn't matter whether you two are fighting right now. Hisfeelings for you haven't changed."

Rin frowned. "He wasn't there waiting for me after school...""Is that why you ran off?""No," said Rin, upset. "I didn't see him and then, I saw Vance looking

really sad and walking off by himself so...""You followed him?"Rin sighed. "Yeah...""You lost sight of Vance?""Exactly," said Rin, groaning. "Now, I don't know where I am anymore."

"I told Kristian the street so he should be there soon," said Jin gently. "Hesaid you've been cold to him recently. He also said that even if he wants tochange or apologize for what he did, you should at least tell him what he didwrong first."

"I..." said Rin, sitting on the grass and wrapping her arms around herknees. "He kept it a secret from me."

"'It'?""He didn't tell me why you left the group," said Rin, sighing. She hid her

head against her legs. "He kept it a secret from me all this time. That is whyI'm so mad at him. I don't want to talk to him until I feel better. Is that sowrong?"

"Actually," said Jin, pausing a second to think about his phrasing. "I toldhim to keep it a secret from you.""What?""You shouldn't blame him," said Jin quickly, a bit uneasy about his lie on

Kristian's behalf. "Make up already Rin-chan.""Jin..." said Rin softly, trying hard to use all her courage. "I think you

should return to our group. I think we should be JinRinBo again. Please?"A long silence. Rin thought he hung up on her without her knowing. She

checked the phone to see that he was still on the other line. At last, she hearda heavy sigh. She asked for his name twice before he spoke up.

"I'm sorry, Rin-chan. I'm really sorry."

"What is that supposed to mean?"On the other end of the phone call, Jin placed his head against thewheel. Why was this so hard to say? Why couldn't he say it? Jin felt his heartbeat rapidly in his chest. He wanted more than anything to return to how itused to be. He would mooch food off Bo. He would copy homework off Rin.They would both tease him about his love for video games. They were so happytogether. They didn't care what the school thought of them. They didn't care totalk to the rest of the school much except if necessary. They were happy as

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long as they have each other.Things were different now. Ever since Jin found out about Jordan and his

circumstances, he couldn't return to how things used to be. He wanted to bethere for Jordan. More than anything, he wanted to help Jordan get throughthis together. If possible, he was willing to take Jordan's spot to save him.

After his conversation with Victoria earlier today and how there werepossibly girls out there who needed his help, he couldn't pretend they don'texist anymore. He wanted to do anything in his power to try and help them.High school life was hard for many of them. For the past two years, he simplydidn't notice. Since he know better, how could he possibly ignore it?

"I'm sorry," said Jin again. "I can't.""Why not?" asked Rin anxiously."I can't say," said Jin, choking back the emotion in his throat. "I can't go

back.""Stupid Jin," said Rin acidly, obviously hurt. "I talked to Jordan! He said

it's okay for you to leave the Populars! He doesn't mind! He actually prefers it

that way! You don't have to feel in debt to him for anything anymore! Soplease...""I want to be the leader of the Populars."Stunned, Rin could not believe his words. "Excuse me?""I want to be the leader of the Populars," said Jin louder and clearer this

time. "That's why I can't leave Rin-chan. I have to stay in the Populars and thenlead them."

Angry, Rin shouted, "If you don't return now, we're not friends anymore!"For a long time, Rin waited for an answer from Jin. She didn't actually

mean those words. However, if she didn't threaten him, he would be toostubborn to listen to her. She had to be firm. She had to be decisive. At last,

she heard a loud honking noise from Jin's end. He must be in his car right now."I'm..." said Jin slowly, his voice weakening. "I'm sorry."At last, Jin hung up. Rin listened to the loud ringing noise in her phone

for a long time with wide eyes. He didn't answer her. He didn't give her ananswer right? He didn't actually say that they would stop being friends right?No. Rin shook her head to herself. He couldn't possibly throw away theirfriendship for popularity. That was not Jin. He would never do such a thing.Why did he apologize then?

"Rin, what are you doing here?"Picking up her eyes, Rin recognized the pale face. "Vance!"Vance had the same expressionless face like always. "What are you doing

here Rin?""I..." Rin flushed bright red. "I got lost.""Did you follow me?""Definitely not!"Vance glanced away. "Do you like to lie to your friends?""Vance," said Rin, dropping her eyes."It's okay," said Vance quickly, holding out his hand. "Let's go.""I am supposed to wait here for Kristian."

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"I know the way back to your house and my car," said Vance in amonotone. Rin accepted his hand as he pulled her up. "We're actually not thatfar from the school, but it can be very confusing in this neighborhood. All thehouses look alike."

"You can say that again..." said Rin, following Vance a distance behind

him. "Don't do that again.""Do what?"Grabbing her hand and jerking her to his side, Vance said, "Following me

from behind. You'll get lost again.""Okay..." said Rin, trying to free her hand from Vance but he refused to

let go of it. "Vance?""Why did you follow me?" asked Vance sternly, keeping his eyes forward.Rin glanced down at their entwined hand. His hand was cold. "I don't

know...""You don't have to be in denial," said Vance, still using the same harsh

tone. "After band practice was over, I went to the gate," said Rin softly,keeping her eyes on her feet. "I thought Kristian would wait for me but hedidn't. I was so sad. Then, I saw you from a distance and you were walking intothis neighborhood. I didn't want to be alone so I ran after you and then Ieventually lost sight of you."

"Stupid," said Vance bitterly."I know.""You should have texted me then."This made Rin feel worse. "I wasn't thinking.""What kind of face was I making when you saw me from a distance?"

asked Vance suddenly in a much gentler voice. This time, he looked down atVance. "What did you see?"Rin thought about it. "You look sad.""Heh... really...""You looked like you had a lot on your mind," continued Rin, afraid to

look at Vance in the eye. "You looked like someone who had no direction of what you were going. You looked like you were just wandering for the heck of it."

"That's not possible," said Vance suddenly, stopping.Rin glanced up at him once before she lowered her eyes again. "Why?""My face always looks the same no matter what," said Vance, shrugging.

"You couldn't have seen all that. You're lying again.""No really!" cried Rin, surprised. "Your face might not have changedmuch but I can tell! I don't know how! It was like..." Rin thought about it for asecond. "A gut feeling! That's it! I had a feeling you weren't feeling well."

"Gut feeling," said Vance thoughtfully, thinking. "That must be it.""I should be asking if you're all right," said Rin, looking down. "But

instead, you have to find me and take me back home. I should be there foryou, not the other way around." Rin made a mad hiss, much to Vance's surprise.

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"Vance, I really want to know what is on your mind. I want to be helpful.""I have a lot on my mind," said Vance, stating clearly. "Too much to talk

about.""Vance..." said Rin, sighing. "You're squeezing my hand too hard.""Ah..." said Vance, loosening his grip on her hand.

"What happen to you in school today?" asked Rin carefully, peering up athis emotionless face. "You seemed fine earlier. You sound slightly pissed off today."

"I don't want to talk about it," said Vance, ignoring her eyes now."I always tell you everything," said Rin, pouting. "You should put your

trust in me.""It's not that," said Vance, shaking his head. They were close to familiar

grounds. Rin could see the gates of her school a distance away. "My thoughtsare messed up right now. I don't know what to think. I don't know how to feel. Idon't know what to say." Vance paused and released her hand. Rin watched ashe rubbed the sides of his head. "I can't think. I'm so dizzy."

"Let's take a rest then," said Rin quickly, tugging Vance down. She satdown with him by her side with his eyes closed. "Stop thinking for once in yourlife Vance!"

"Whatever."Sitting there, Rin nearly jumped when she felt Vance's head against her

shoulder. She glanced over at Vance. Somehow, Vance looked paler than usualas he breathed in heavily. Feeling bad, Rin forced him to rest his head on top of her lap instead. Right after he obeyed her, she regretted her decision. Now, shefelt uncomfortable and red in the face at the same time. Vance gripped herhand.

"Vance? Are you awake?"

"I'm clearing my mind.""I... see..." said Rin, laughing in a fake manner."I need to know you're still here," said Vance as if reading her thoughts."Oh okay," said Rin, staring at their hands. "If you need me, just ask.""Heh..."After a couple of minutes, Rin noticed a familiar car. In a few seconds,

Kristian and Bo rushed out from inside the car. Bo helped Vance up whileKristian hugged Rin close to him. She could feel Kristian's body shaking againsther. Before they could say anything to each other, Jezebelle told them to hurryin the car. The evening air was cold. The car ride was dead silent with Kristianand Jezebelle in the front. Vance was leaning against Rin the whole time with

his eyes closed. *****************************************Coming home, Jordan kept his eyes to the ground as he took off his

shoes. He heard his sister coming over to greet him and then scold him forcoming home so late. At the mention of the time, Jordan glanced at the clock.Apparently, nine o'clock was considered late for Jordan's sister now. Jordansighed.

"I know you have a new girlfriend and everything but you can at least

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call!"Jordan went past his sister. "Good night."At the sound of Jordan slamming his door shut, his sister frowned to hear

him locking his door once again. Jordan's brother-in-law went up to her andplaced his hand on her shoulder, comforting her. Then, he said softly after she

calmed down a bit."You can still smell it," said Jordan's brother-in-law. "He was out latesurfing again."

Inside his room, Jordan sat against the door, afraid that his sister wouldunlock it and force herself into his room. His room was completely dark. He feltnervous, shaking from top to bottom.

After he heard his sister walking away, he hurried over to his bed andlaid in the fetal position with his arms covering his head on both sides. Hecouldn't stop thinking of the worst case scenario after what he had done to Jin.What if something happen to Jezebelle? What would he do? What if... Jin startto hate him?

"No," said Jordan, shouting out loud. Realizing he said it outwardly,Jordan thought the rest to himself. "No... I can't let that happen... I can't loseJin. He's my first real male friend. Thanks to my popularity with the girls, mostboys don't approach me and befriend me for real. They only talk to me forbenefits."

Shaking even more, Jordan closed his eyes and pulled the sheets overhim. In his head, he had mental images of various boys going up to him to askhim to promote their club or to join them in a group date. People gave himinvitations to house parties and beach parties all the time. If he was there,everyone else would come. He was nothing more than a tool and he hated it.

"I hate it," thought Jordan at the images. "I hate my life. I hate

everything." Jordan gasped for breath and got up straight. The sheets fell off him immediately. "I hate making horrible decisions." Jordan thought of going toschool in his own car this morning. Tossing that scenario aside, Jordan thoughtof not offering to drive Jezebelle home. Every scenario he came up next allseemed worse than the last. "Why am I so horrible at this?"

By his bedside, he noticed that his phone had been vibrating non-stopsince he came home. Angry, Jordan smacked the phone to the ground.However, he thought of how his sister had to pay for his phone and immediatelygot off his bed to pick it up. Ten missed calls. Victoria called him twice. Monikacalled him once. Various other girls called him. There were text messages fromvarious people as well, including Roselle and his basketball coach. Jordan

laughed it off and put his phone on silence."I'm such a fallible person," thought Jordan, holding his cell phone tightin the palm of his hands. "More than that, I'm an untrustworthy friend. I canunderstand if Jin never talks to me again. I can imagine that he doesn't want tobe friends anymore. I don't blame him. I'm not worth his friendship anyways."

Listening to his rapidly beating heart, Jordan told himself that hecouldn't fall asleep now. He had to wash his hair. He had to brush his teeth. Hehad to change out of his clothes. Thinking of his other male friends other than

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Jin, Jordan thought of how none of them were worth his time.Suddenly, Jordan thought of Rin and he remembered how he was

supposed to help in keeping Jin's popularity down. Even though Jordan wantedJin to go back to his old group, he didn't want to be separated from his newbest friend. Moreover, after the separation, he would probably not talk to Jin

again, except for tennis.Torn, Jordan worked it out in his head. No, it didn't matter how he felt.He had to put Jin ahead of himself. Today was proof enough that Jin didn'tneed to become more popular. He should be a normal high schooler who couldstay after school to watch his girlfriend practice tennis without worry and thentake her home without distractions. This was how it was supposed to be. It washis responsibility alone to endure, not Jin's.

"Everyone is meretricious," thought Jordan when it came to the otherboys. "All of them. I don't want to lose Jin's friendship even if I don't deserve it.However, if Rin Hamada succeeds in convincing Jin back to her group, I won'tmind. I can at least treasure the few days we became the best of friends.

That's enough for me."Jordan tried to smile but he felt an ache in his chest. He felt miserablebut he told himself not to. Tears came to his eyes without him knowing. Hehugged the cell phone against his chest as he stared into the darkness.

"Yes," said Jordan, allowing the tears to drip down his cheeks. "Even if Iwere to end it all now, I will hold onto that memory to the last breath."

********************************************At Rin's house, Vance was resting on top of Rin's bed. The others sat at

the kitchen table, staring at each other. He had been resting for over an houralready but no one made a move to check up on him. Jezebelle was busywatching something on the PSP. Rin's mother came and shook her head at Rin.

The others waited for the news."The poor boy caught a cold," said Ms. Hamada, frowning."I'll call his parents then," said Rin immediately, standing up straight."Kristian," said Bo, turning to Kristian with an expected look. "Can you

drive Fi-Fi home? Jin might commit suicide over her if you don't hurry.""Why don't you drive her home?" asked Kristian, annoyed at Bo."How about I stay here instead then, you bickering losers?" asked

Jezebelle, amused at the thought of Jin committing suicide over her."No!" shouted Rin at Jezebelle's question. "Go home now!""Bossy, short bitch," said Jezebelle through the corner of her lips.Unfortunately for Jezebelle, Rin didn't hear that as she went to the

living room, talking on the phone with Vance's mother about how Vance wassick at her house. Bo and Kristian played rock, paper, scissors to decide whowould drive Jezebelle home. The winner was none other than the Japanese boywho had to drag Jezebelle out the house by the arm. Grinning and waving afterthem, Bo said his good byes and thank yous to Jezebelle.

Worried about Vance, Rin quickly went to her room to find him with hisback to her computer and his front to the wall. He was under the sheets of herbed. Rin went over to him. At the sound of her footsteps, he fluttered his eyes

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open, laid on his back, and gazed up at her sleepily. Rin tried to smile at him."Vance, I called your parents," said Rin in a soft, tender voice. "They'll be

here to pick you up soon.""Why did you do that?" asked Vance in an irritated voice.Rin widened her eyes. "Did I do something wrong?"

"I don't want to see them," said Vance blatantly, keeping his eyes on her."You're sick Vance," said Rin, grabbing a chair and pulling it over to hisbedside. "You need to rest at home. Your parents need to give you medicineand take care of you."

Vance tossed Rin a bitter look. "Why can't you take care of me?"Flushing red, Rin shook her head, "I-I can't!"For the first time ever, Rin saw an obvious mad look on Vance's face. At

her answer, he turned his back to her unsatisfied and wrapped his arms in frontof his chest stubbornly. Rin had never seen him act like this before. It was soshocking that it left her speechless.

"I want water," said Vance in a direct order.

Even though mentally Rin wanted to say no, she listened and left theroom. In the kitchen, she noticed that Bo was grinning over a cup of tea hepoured for himself. At the sight of her, his grin widened. Rin tried to smileback. She began to pour a glass of water for Vance.

"Hamada-sama.""Rin-chan," said Rin automatically in correction."Rin-chan," said Bo, not bothering to argue. "You should give Vance a

break.""You saw?" asked Rin, shocked."Of course."Rin scowled. "What's up with Vance?"

"Sick boys can be very childish," said Bo, chuckling and drinking the tea."They say and do things they won't normally do. You might see sides of Vanceyou've never seen before. I heard from my sister that when I'm sick, I beg forporn."

"Closet pervert," said Rin, smacking Bo upside the head with her freehand before heading toward the stairs. Bo laughed. "Why are you here though?"

"I have no idea," said Bo, shrugging. "Fi-Fi and I decided to explore theneighborhood together. Of course, my attention wasn't on her face most of thetime..."

Rin glared at him. "Do you know how concerned Jin is for her right now?How can you do something like that?"

"Forget Jin," said Bo, laying back in his seat. "I hate him.""You don't actually mean that," said Rin, frowning."Until he comes back to us," said Bo, placing the cup down on the table.

"I'm allowed to hate him.""But Jin did it for Kristian and I!"Noticing how upset Rin was, Bo simply said, "That's not why I hate him

though!""Why do you hate him?" asked Rin, lost.

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Bo rubbed his chin. "Obviously, it's because he gets to be close toVictoria, Frida, and Monika now. They're in my year but they're so far out of myleague that I can't even talk to them." Bo shook his head in shame. "So sad...they're so beautiful too..."

"I'm not talking to you anymore," said Rin, frustrated. She went up the

stairs. Bo stared at the ceiling for a few seconds. "If Fi-Fi weren't there, Iprobably would have lost it like Kristian at your disappearance..." Bo closed hiseyes and grinned. "Like I'll ever say that to her."

*********************************************Sweating from top to bottom, Wendy and Cash panted for breath as they

sat on top of the bleachers. The basketball was busy rolling around the court inthe meantime. Cash asked whether Wendy wanted some water. Still panting,Wendy said it was fine. After Cash left to get water, Wendy laid her head backand thought about all the times she watched Jordan play basketball. He wasn'tthe best basketball player but he always looked so happy when he played

basketball. In contrast, Cash didn't look happy when he played. Instead, he hadthe most serious expression on his face. He wanted to win. It was obvious."Here Wendy," said Cash, handing her a water bottle."Thanks," said Wendy, accepting the water bottle. However, she was

struggling with opening the bottle. "What is with this fucking cap?"Cash held out his hand. "I'll do it for you.""It's not worth it if I can't do it myself," said Wendy stubbornly, surprising

Cash. At last after a couple of more tries, she forced it open. "There! Hah! Youlose water bottle!"

Cash burst out laughing. "Congrats.""Oh man," said Wendy after a quick gulp of water. "This is heaven!"

"You're actually pretty good for a girl," said Cash, smirking."You mean basketball right?" asked Wendy, lifting a brow. Cash shrugged."Of course! Who do you think I am? I've been playing basketball all my life! Howinsulting. Just because I'm a girl..."

"This is the first time," said Cash, standing up and stretching. "A girlnearly beat me one on one. I'm so impressed."

"I said it already," said Wendy, wrapping her arms in front of her chest."Just because I'm girl doesn't mean I'm some doll that can't be broken by thelikes of you!"

"I'm starting to understand that," said Cash, walking over to the basket."I know I gave this to you but I'm really hungry."

"I don't mind," said Wendy, shrugging. "You should take it back anyways.""If I give you a basket full of meat, you'll accept it?"Wendy laughed loudly. "That doesn't work!""Guess not," said Cash, taking out a bag of dried raisins. "I love raisins!""They're okay I guess," said Wendy, eying Cash closely. He seemed so

happy, throwing in the raisins in his mouth. "Why do you like fruits so much?""It's a long story.""Coincidentally," said Wendy, smirking. "I don't need to be anywhere

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else.""Someone called me fruity," said Cash, shrugging. Wendy had to stop

herself from laughing. "One of those haters you know so then I was like," Cashheld up his bag of dried raisins. "I told them- heck yes! I'm fruity! I am as freshas a fruit can be!"

At the end of Cash's declaration, Wendy started laughing so loudly thatshe had to hold onto her stomach. Cash couldn't help but smile at the sight of her laughing so hard that she was about to fall off her seat. Wendy indicated atCash after her laughing fit.

"You know what fruity means right?"Cash sighed. "No duh. Dumb shit thinks he can call me that and get away

with it.""You should have sock him in the face," said Wendy, holding her fist. "I

would have.""Really?" asked Cash, amused."Hell yeah," said Wendy, standing up now. "If some bitch goes up to me

and calls me a name, I'll sock that bitch so hard and then make their life aliving hell!" Wendy grinned deviously. "No one messes with Wendy. I have thepolice on my side."

"Oh yeah," said Cash with wide eyes. "Your dad's a cop.""Yup," said Wendy, placing her hands on her hips. "That's why no one

messes with me in school, if you haven't noticed. People who think they'resome great shit all become cowards at the sight of the cops."

"Seriously," said Cash, laughing. "So if I were to date you, I would have tobe wary of your overprotective father? He might shoot me with a gun if I'm notcareful."

"Afraid already?"

"I'll just have to outsmart a cop," said Cash, shrugging and smirking ather. "It's not that hard is it?""Good luck?" asked Wendy, unsure."Yeah. Thanks."Wendy shrugged and sat back down. "Pass the raisins. Quit hogging.""I thought you hate fruits," said Cash, throwing her the sealed bag.

Wendy caught it and unzipped it. She helped herself. "By the way, ever sincethat awful comment on my sexuality, I devoted all my free time to fruits."

Wendy was biting a raisin in half. "Oh? Like what?""How about..." said Cash, thinking. Then, he went over to her and sat

down next to her. "What is the left side of an apple?" Wendy shook her head.

Cash grinned. "The part you don't eat!""Oh man!" cried Wendy, laughing. "That's awful.""Let's see..." said Cash, coming up with another joke he learned. "What

did the boy banana say to the girl banana?" Once again, Wendy had no idea soshe shook her head. "You have a lot of appeal !"

"Oh man! Tell me another one!"Without Wendy noticing, Cash moved up closer to her. "Are you selling

fruits?" Wendy shook her head, both in response and not knowing the answer.

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"Because I'd love a date." Cash finally moved in close enough to kiss Wendy anddid so.

**********************************************Leaning against a wall, Vance sighed at how noisy the students around

him were. They were a bunch of pests in his opinion. Ever since he moved to

California, he was more bugged about the environment around him thanbefore. The school was ugly and dirty and yet, there were a large amount of good-looking people. They were the worst of the bunch from Vance'sexperience so he tend to ignore them. The most handsome person in the roomwas a Caucasian boy in the far corner. Vance made a mental note not to talk tohim.

I miss you Rin-chan, said another good-looking boy from the adjacentwall to Vance. Why did you stop talking to me on messenger over summerbreak?

I already told you why, said an annoyed, short Japanese girl. Really? asked the boy, rudely staring at the DS in his hands than at her.

I don't remember you telling me anything. You never listen to anything I say anyway, said the girl bitterly,

adjusting the watch around her left hand. Why bother repeating?

Vance did not know why but suddenly, he kept staring at her. The wayshe adjusted the watch around her wrist caught his attention for some reason.She didn't wear it like everyone else with the surface under the back of her lefthand. Instead, she wore it under the palm of her left hand. This was howpeople who liked to check time during an exam wore their watches. Vancecouldn't explain why. The sight of this was so damn attractive.

You know me too well, said the boy, smiling. How's vacation? Don't give me that, said the girl, shooting back at him. I work my buttoff all summer while you stay at home and play video games.

Rin-chan... works ? asked the boy in disbelief. He finally looked at herstraight in the eye. Where? Are you a waitress or something?

Gathering the data quickly, Vance came to a couple of conclusions aboutthe girl. Her name was Rin-chan, most likely Rin. She was cynical andcondescending, yet she was also hardworking and intelligent. She cared abouther studies. She didn't seem to care much about society judging by the way shetalked and how she dressed. She wore plain clothes with a green, buttonedsweater over her hidden top. Yet, it was the watch she wore and the way sheadjusted it earlier that caught Vance's attention.

Even though Vance didn't find her beautiful or physically attractive, herserious personality was attractive. She seemed to not care much about whatothers thought of her. For some reason, Vance was charmed by everything heobserved. In addition, she went on about how she hated the school population.This made Vance smile inwardly. Even though he wanted to initiate aconversation to know her better, he knew it wasn't possible.

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Luckily for him, he ended up sitting next to her thanks to his last name.Of course, on the downside, he had to sit across from that Caucasian boy fromearlier who he said he wouldn't talk to. There was also another cocky-lookingCaucasian boy next to him. This of course made them automatically friendsbecause they both didn't want to talk to the other two. Her name was Rin

Hamada. The boys' names were Jordan Greene and Cash Grahams. Thankfully,they were so similar in their thinking that talking to her was easy. Way tooeasy.

That watch, said Vance, gazing at the watch.

What about it? asked Rin with a beautiful smile, causing Jordan fromacross the table to lift a brow at them. Cash was too busy chatting with girlsbehind him.

Vance glanced away at her smile. Nothing.

*****************************************************Trying hard not to think of the memory, Vance nearly jumped up when he

heard the door open. Rin was back with his cup of water. She gave him a sweetsmile before she handed him a cup. Vance sat up and drank the cup in one gulpbefore he handed to her. Trying his hardest to keep his cool, Vance tried to lookat her.

How long ago did you call my parents?

A while ago, said Rin, uncertain. I'm not sure.

I don't want to go home, said Vance, glancing away.

But you're sick, said Rin, frowning out of worry. Your parents need toknow.

It's the weekend, said Vance plainly, laying back down. And it's asmall cold.

Still, said Rin, edging closer to him. I want you to get better.

Vance gazed at her with a bored look. Why do you care about me?

Eh?

Isn't it funny to see me like this?

Why are you acting so weird? asked Rin, miserable. You're being a bigbaby.

Vance glared at her. That's because you have to fucking call myparents.

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I told you why already!

Feeling slightly dizzy, Vance closed his eyes and shook it off. Forget it.Whatever.

This is the only thing I can do for you, said Rin softly, clasping herhands together on top of her lap. So at least let me do it...

You want to know what's bugging me right? asked Vance suddenly,catching Rin off-guard. Vance sighed, turned his back to her, and continued.You know that annoying girl that follows me around?

Gretta?

Yeah... said Vance, sighing. She's telling everyone I'm her boyfriendduring that whole Jin tennis match. Everyone thinks I'm her boyfriend now.Everyone wants me to be with her and stuff. Rin frowned, feeling sorry forVance. Everywhere I go, when people recognize me, they keep saying how Ishould date her already. They also say things like how we make such a nicecouple. I want to just... disappear.

Vance...

What do they know about me? asked Vance loudly, keeping his back toRin. What do they know about what type of girls I like? Or what I should do?People always assume things and make them true when they're not. I've beengetting a headache all day. Why can't they all mind their own business?

But... said Rin, biting her lip. I thought you can block out what

people say.

I can, said Vance, agreeing with her. I can block out what that girlsays. It's impossible to do that to everyone and especially not for an entireday.

I see, said Rin sadly. It must be tough Vance... I had no idea.

Whatever, said Vance, apathetic. It didn't matter until it gave me abig headache. I hate it when that happens.

Once you get home, rest a lot Vance.

Vance glanced down. Because I'm sick, they'll fuss over me.

Both your parents? asked Rin curiously.

Yes... said Vance slowly, as if ashamed to say it. Both of them... Atthe door bell, Vance bolted up straight. He saw Rin making her way to the door.Wait Rin!

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Yes Vance?

After you meet my parents, said Vance solemnly. Can you not tellanyone else about them? Same goes for Bo.

What's wrong with your parents? asked Rin worriedly, holding onto thedoor knob.

Nothing, said Vance, scowling. To me it's nothing.

Huh?

Just go and tell them I don't want to see them right now.

Okay...

Down the stairs, Rin noticed that her mother already opened the door.

Bo was with her. Her mother was chatting merrily to whoever was at the doorwith a hand to her cheek. Rin knew this posture too well. Vance's father mustbe very good-looking to set this off in her. Coming over, Rin met brown eyes. Abeautiful man with brown hair and brown eyes was talking to her mother. Rinblushed too even though he was way older than her.

Where's my Vance? asked the man to Rin the minute she appeared. Heplaced a hand on his hip and pouted. My poor boy's caught a cold! I knew Ishouldn't have let him wander all night by himself!

Rin blinked. He was very feminine. You're... Vance's father?

Actually...

Much to Rin's surprise, an older man with dirty blonde hair and blue eyesbehind the first spoke up at Rin's question. He had facial hair and had a moremuscular build than the first man. He was carrying a girl that looked no olderthan three years old. The little girl was definitely Filipino with short, curlyblack hair. She was wearing a pretty white dress with a cloak. Right now, shewas busy playing with a pink cell phone.

Actually, he laughed. I'm Vance's father.

Then... said Rin, confused, glancing over at the beautiful, shorterman.

The brown-haired man's eyes were wandering the living room. Where'sVance? I want to see him so badly!

Excuse him, said Vance's father calmly, pushing his way inside. Andpardon us.

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Y-Yes, said Rin's mother, waking up from her dreamy gaze. I'll gomake tea! Or would you prefer coffee?

Tea, said the first man.

Coffee, said the second man.

I'll help, Ms. Hamada, said Bo, following Rin's mother to the kitchen.

Meanwhile, the two men went inside and looked around. The girl didn'tseem interested in the house. She was too busy pressing random buttons on thecell phone. Rin was skeptical about her. Was she related to Vance? They lookednothing alike. At Rin's questioning look, the second man smiled at Rin.

Her name is Margaret. She's Vance's sister.Oh, said Rin, blinking at the tiny girl. Blood related?

No, laughed the taller man. They're both adopted.

Ah, said Rin, understanding now. She beamed at them. Then, you'rethe father and, Rin nodded at the feminine, beautiful male who seemed to beon the edge about Vance's health. You're the mother.

Exactly.

Enough chitchat, Henry, said the shorter male impatiently. We shouldtake Vance home and have him rest all weekend so he can go to school onMonday!

Where is Vance, my dear? asked Mr. Henry Gray, smiling gently at Rin.

He's sleeping upstairs, said Rin quickly, remembering what Vance said.If you want, we can talk in the kitchen until he wakes up.

Splendid, said Henry, motioning the other male. He's not a babyanymore, Morgan, so you shouldn't fret about his health. It's just a cold so heshould be fine as long as he gets lots of rest and some medication.

If he dies, cried Mr. Morgan Gray, glaring. You'll pay!Yes, I will, said Henry, amused.

Oh my God, said Morgan, noticing the tea set Ms. Hamada was using.What a cute teapot! Look Henry! It has this gorgeous flower design!

He has a short-attention span, said Henry in explanation to Rin. Yourname is Rin Hamada, correct?

Yes, said Rin, nodding. I am.You're Rin Hamada ? asked Morgan loudly, pointing at Rin. Rin was

speechless so she simply nodded her head. Wow! You're way different than I

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imagine you to be! I thought you'll be taller and prettier!Henry rubbed the sides of his head as he sat down at the kitchen table.

Nice way to make a first impression on Vance's first friend in California,Morgan.

No, it's fine, said Rin, flushing. He's honest.

Sorry, said Morgan, laughing. He gave Rin a side glance. You're cuteas a button though! The way Vance talks about you, you should like one of those... Morgan paused and glanced at Henry. What is that word kids usednowadays to describe emotional people?

Emo? asked Bo in offering.

That's it, said Morgan, snapping his fingers. Henry thanked Ms. Hamadafor the coffee to the side while Morgan went on. I thought you would look likeone of those emo girls. You know with the black lipstick and makeup andclothes. Morgan shivered. Horrible fashion taste I tell you!

Rin-chan is worse than that, said Ms. Hamada, giggling. She has nosense of fashion at all. All she wears is a t-shirt, jeans, and a sweater.

Mother! said Rin, fuming.

The horror! said Morgan, outraged. Skirts are so adorable!Henry gave Rin the same smile though. I think it's nice you're so

comfortable with yourself to wear such clothes. It's attractive in itself. Vance isthe same, is he not?

Morgan grumbled something before he said out loud, Vance is already

pale enough as it is. He doesn't have to wear black to make it more noticeable.He looks like a vampire and that is exactly the reason why he doesn't makeenough friends!

Margaret hid her head in her father's shirt when she heard Vance's name.Rin noticed this and Henry noticed Rin staring. He tried to laugh it off. Ms.Hamada squealed at the cute three-year-old and went over to pet her on thehead.

Margaret's afraid of Vance, said Henry calmly.

Bo grinned. I don't blame the lady. I'm scared of him myself sometimes.

Rin glared at Bo. You shouldn't say such things in front of Vance'sparents!

It's quite all right, said Henry with a nod. I am glad Vance is so scary-looking.

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Henry! shouted Morgan, covering his mouth with his hand. How dareyou!

It's true, said Henry, sighing. Margaret was now in Ms. Hamada's armsinstead of her father's. She seemed to be at ease in the arms of a stranger

though. A lot of people in this world judge others on many criteria, includingappearances. It is only when people look past these judgments can theybecome better people. I have no doubt you two are friends with Vance for whohe is because you have already looked past his exterior.

Seeing as how I'm no beauty pageant myself, said Rin slowly. I haveno right to judge others based on how they look. I am... Rin sighed. I doadmit to being judgmental to people based on their intelligence and attitudethough. Of course, I've gone past that. Morgan and Henry nodded at herwords. But it's hard at times not to discriminate.

It's okay, said Henry, picking up his tea cup. You sound like a nice girl.I'm glad Vance made friends with you. Henry glanced at Bo now. But I haven'tgotten your name, young man.

I'm Bo Sungwoo, said Bo, grinning. Vance is funny. I like him.

Funny, said Morgan, tapping his fingers against his cheek. I neverheard Vance mention your name.

We're not that close, said Bo admittedly, unaffected by Morgan'shonest words.

Though, I have heard him mention a boy name Jin, said Morgan,suddenly beaming and hugging himself. From the way he keeps sayingnegative things about this Jin, I thought Vance has a crush on him withoutknowing it. It's so cute!

I can't wait to tell Jin that, said Bo, grinning widely now.

Rin scowled. Vance and Jin really don't get along... I don't know why...

No matter whether Vance likes boys or girls, said Henry, stoppingMorgan from going on. We will support him all the way. I personally think hehas a crush on you, Rin.

At Henry's words, Rin glanced away with blushed cheeks. That's... notpossible.

Whether he likes you or not, time will time, said Henry, finishing hiscup of tea. I do know that you're the first friend he made at Wilson High. Hemight hate California but I'm sure he'll get used to it with your help. Thanks alot for taking care of Vance.

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N-No problem! said Rin, pumped up. I really don't do much! He takescare of me more often...

That's so sweet, said Morgan happily. So my boy has a cute side afterall!

Not so loud, Morgan, said Henry, frowning. Vance is sleepingremember?

Not anymore, said Vance, coming down the stairs and groaning. Rinran over to support him against her. So loud... I can't sleep at all.

Vance, said Morgan, running over and forcing Vance into a deadly hug.You're alive! My baby's alive! Oh my! You're sweating so much!

At the sight of Vance, Margaret hid her head into Ms. Hamada's shirt. Shewas shaking out of fear at the sight of her older brother. Vance managed tofree himself from Morgan's hug and stumbled into the only empty seat left.Vance breathed in and out. At the sight of Henry smiling at him, Vance sighed.

It's a small cold, said Vance quickly. It's nothing.

I know, said Henry, nodding. You don't want to worry us but of course,Morgan has been fretting about you on the entire car ride here even when I tellhim everything is all right. Morgan was busy checking on Vance right now.Such a worrisome mother.

When we come home, I'm making soup! said Morgan in declaration.

I'm not hungry, said Vance solemnly, glancing in Margaret's direction.The girl immediately hid her face. She's here too. How nice.

I'm too afraid to leave either her or Morgan at home by themselves,said Henry in explanation why all three of them were here.

Makes sense... said Vance weakly. Vance glanced in Rin's direction. Isaid some stupid things earlier. Forget it I beg of you. Vance stood up. Let'sgo home now. I don't want to bother Rin's family anymore.

It's no bother at all, said Ms. Hamada, handing Margaret back to Henry.Please come back again anytime! I love to have a chat with such beautifulmen.

Mother! said Rin in disbelief.

The pleasure is all mine, said Morgan, winking at Ms. Hamada. Morgangrabbed Vance's arm and dragged him toward the door. Mommy's going tomake sure you'll get better soon Vance! Vance managed to wear his shoes

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quickly before he was pulled out of the house. Thank you and bye!Before Henry left with Margaret, Henry turned around at the remaining

three. It's hard sometimes for us and I know how hard it must be for Vance. Hemade a couple of friends back in Georgia you see, but then Georgia went fromDemocrat to Republican.

Oh... said Rin sadly.

It's not that we don't see eye to eye with the Republicans, said Henryquickly and defensively. It's just with the political affiliation change, the lawsalso change. We can no longer live in Georgia so we moved to California. It wastough for Vance to lose the few friends he had but he did it for us so we'regrateful.

Yeah... said Rin slowly. He did mention a couple of times how hedidn't like to make friends since they don't last...

Both Morgan and I love him a lot, said Henry, rubbing Margaret's headaffectionately. Since he's sticking with us despite how hard it is, we're alsogoing to support him in whatever he feels like doing in life. He can date boys orgirls. He can go into any career he wants. He can aim for any university helikes. All we want is for him to open up a little and make friends again.

We're Vance's friends, said Bo, grinning. And that Jin fellow is oneextraordinary fellow. Even though he and Vance don't get along, they're friendstoo. I can assure you that you have nothing to worry about. Vance is alreadyopening up to Rin-chan. It's working.

That's good news, said Henry, adjusting the cloak around Margaret.Thanks a lot for being there for Vance. He can be cold at first but as hisfather, I can say he is a good kid overall given the right situation.

Got it, said Bo with a nod.

It's nice meeting you, said Rin, waving after them.

Thanks again for your hospitality, said Henry over his shoulder.

After Rin closed the door, Henry turned around and looked at the housefondly. Once he buckled Margaret down in her toddler car seat, he sat down atthe driver's seat with Morgan next to him. Vance was keeping his distance fromMargaret in the back.

So Vance... started Henry.

What? asked Vance, skeptical.

You like that Rin Hamada don't you?

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Vance scowled. Stupid.

He didn't deny it, said Morgan in a sing-song voice. He admits it! Yourfirst love too! That's so beautiful!

Shut up, said Vance, pulling his hood over his head. Leave me alone.

Henry glanced at Morgan. Our Vance is growing up so fast.

He's becoming a man, said Morgan with a nod. I can't wait! At thisrate, we might be able to have grandchildren!

Suddenly, Margaret started giggling. She still didn't talk but she giggledover and over. Vance simply hid himself under his hood without saying anything.Margaret's giggles were so infectious that both Vance's parents started laughingas well. They went home, listening to love songs on the radio.

***********************************************Walking into the Song household, Tiffany poked her head into the

kitchen to find Jin wearing an apron and mixing a bowl of salad. Actually, whenTiffany glanced at the counter, there were six bowls full of salad already.Tiffany had no idea what was going on but Jin was concentrating on his task somuch that he didn't even notice that she walked in now and looked over thesalad. Much to Tiffany's surprise, Jin somehow made six different types of saladeach with different dressing.

J-Jin? asked Tiffany weakly, making sure this boy was actually herneighbor.

Oh! said Jin, turning around and beaming at Tiffany with dressing onhis face. Hey Tiffany! Good evening!

What is this for? asked Tiffany, indicating at the salad.

Once Fi gets home, she'll be really hungry, said Jin, still smiling.Tiffany was almost afraid of Jin now. I'm making all her favorite salad while Iwait for her! I hope she likes them! I spent the past two hours on them!

Jin... said Tiffany, approaching him cautiously. I hate to say thisbut...

Yes Tiffany?

I don't think she eats that much.Jin nearly dropped his spoon. What?

There was something definitely wrong with Jin. Tiffany went over andused his apron to clean the dressing off his cheek. Jin thanked her with a blankexpression on his face. He was rethinking what she just said. At last, he

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allowed one huge gasp and started pulling his hair. Tiffany watched as he ranaround the kitchen with his arms in the air.

You're right! cried Jin dramatically, stopping in front of the bowlagain. Fi doesn't eat this much! Once she sees the sight of all this, she'll get

mad at me... Jin groaned. She'll think I'm trying to make her gain weight orsomething... when I'm not...

Tiffany felt sorry for Jin. I'll... take a bowl home.

Will you? asked Jin with a puppy expression on his face.

Blushing, Tiffany nodded and grabbed a hold of a bowl without looking.I'll take this one! But what about the rest?

I guess I'll eat them all, said Jin, staring helplessly at the salad hemade.

You'll get a stomachache, said Tiffany, frowning. If you want, I cantake two.

No, it's okay, said Jin, waving it off. It's my fault so I'll take care of itmyself. What should I do with this salad? Suddenly, Jin heard the doorbell.Oh no! I think she's home! What should I do?

Tiffany gave him a look of disbelief. Hide it of course!

Right, right, said Jin, grabbing a hold of one and throwing it into the

oven. Tiffany grabbed another one and placed it in the refrigerator. There wereno more room in there. Where else? Jin rushed and stuffed two bowls intothe pot cabinet. Tiffany?

I know, said Tiffany, nodding. She hurried to the backyard where shecould leave using the garden door. She had a bowl of salad with her. If youneed me, call me Jin.

Okay, said Jin, grabbing the last bowl of salad and placed it on thekitchen table. Thanks Tiffany! Now for the door... Too lad. Jin watched as hiscousin rushed down the stairs and opened the door. Or not...

Oh my God shrieked Shuijin at the door. It's you again!

Knowing that tone too well, Jin rushed over to the door, only to find anirritable Jezebelle standing next to a smirking Kristian. Shuijin was squealingbecause Kristian was good-looking and she liked him since the first time hecame. Jezebelle didn't even look at Jin as she walked in after Kristian withShuijin attaching herself to Jezebelle.

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What's up Jin? asked Kristian, noticing Jin staring at him.

You lied to me, said Jin in a heartbroken voice.

I didn't, said Kristian, holding his hands up defensively. You asked meand I directed your attention elsewhere. I never lied to you. You forgot to askagain.

Suddenly, Jin felt angry at Kristian. Thanks. Please go home now.

You're not even going to offer me water like you usually do Jin?

Losing his patience, Jin pushed Kristian out of the door despite hiscousin's protest. Jin made sure to thank Kristian again before he closed thedoor behind him. When Jin turned around, he met stunned looks on both hiscousin and Jezebelle's faces. Jin flushed and told them that there was salad inthe kitchen.

All three of them sat at the kitchen table and ate salad at this late hour.Neither Jezebelle nor Shuijin dare to say anything at the sight of Jin in a badmood. They both ate the salad without hesitation. Jin sighed several times, lostin thought. He kept having mental images of Jezebelle and Kristian togethersince this was the second time she disappeared on him and with Kristian.

Even though he's the hero, said Jezebelle in a mocking tone in a longblack dress. All he does is brood and rely on his friends! It's already sixty hoursinto the game and he can't even reach the final boss in time! How lame! I'mswitching sides!

No Fi! cried Jin, chasing after Jezebelle dramatically. You can'tbecome the traitor character! You don't have a hidden agenda or a dark backstory! Besides, Jin became tearful. You're the only character that can useDark Magic!

Jezebelle rolled her eyes. You can win without a black mage.

But black mages are so cool!

Once a character goes traitor, said Kristian, appearing out of nowherewith his own black cloak and outfit. That character won't return to you untilthe end of the game! Most of the time, they won't return at all! Take thatstereotypical RPG hero!

Jin threw himself on the ground dramatically. No Fi! Don't leave me!You're supposed to be the main female lead who always gets together with thehero! Fans will now pair me with the other characters now!

Like I care, said Jezebelle in a menacing voice. Why would I care

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when I get twice the amount of hit points the minute I join the evil side? Now,it takes you and all your friends' combined strength to defeat me! Jezebellelaughed evilly. Let's go Kristian.

Sixty hours and he can't even defeat me, said Kristian, pulling

Jezebelle away by the arm. I should have taken over the world three times bythen! But no, I have to wait for him to come and defeat me first. At least, Ihave you to spend time with, my beautiful lovely Tilly.

Watching them leave, Jin screamed, No! I am not at the final map yetso I can't defeat him! My level is too low!

All of Jin's friends gather around him with dramatic music playing in thebackground.

Suddenly, Jin felt a smack to his head. He blinked. He noticed Jezebellewas standing in front of him with an irritated look on her face and a hand onher hip. Shuijin was sitting across the table with a dropped jaw. Jezebellesighed.

He's back to reality now, said Jezebelle, turning around. I'm hungry.

There's more salad in the refrigerator, said Jin in a happy voice now.Jezebelle lifted a brow at his mood swings. And in the oven! Please eat moreFi!

Oven... yeah sure...

That can't be true, said Jin to himself at the sight of Jezebelle takingout a bowl of salad from the refrigerator. Fi can't be a traitor character andshe can't be on the good side to begin with. Knowing Fi... Jin thought of Jezebelle sitting on a throne and tempting Kristian instead. Yeah. That's it.That's Fi for you.

You're saying crap about me? asked Jezebelle in a threatening voice.

Jin jumped. No! Of course not! Jin noticed that she sat down and washelping herself to more salad. Fi... I'm glad you're all right... but why are youwith Kristian?

Because I feel like it, said Jezebelle, not bothering to look at Jin.

Pulling a sad face, Jin glanced away and muttered, I... see...

Done, said Jezebelle, standing up and leaving the kitchen. The saladbowl was half-finished. Shuijin paled since she didn't want to finish it. Did youmake my hot bath?

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I did a while ago so...

So useless, said Jezebelle mercilessly, leaving without a backwardglance.

Sad still, Jin slumped in his chair and ate his salad quietly. Shuijinquickly excused herself and left the room before she had to finish the rest of the salad. Sighing, Jin finished it by himself. He heard Jezebelle in thebathroom nearby. She was probably going to take a bath now. Taking thisopportunity, Jin removed the last two bowls of salad from the cabinet. Eventhough he was full, he was determined to finish it. He just had to imagine thiswas a video game and he must fulfill this quest.

In the bathtub, Jezebelle decided to take a quick bath since she had todo her Spanish homework and then go to bed early. She was annoyed to findthat even in the bathroom, there was a poster on the door of Kirby. Still, shewas used to Jin by now so she simply ignored it and thought about what shewas going to do now. Tomorrow was Saturday so she only had two days to reallypractice before the first tennis game. Nodding, Jezebelle decided to practice.

After only thirty minutes, Jezebelle left the bathroom with a towelunderneath her hair to let it dry. She decided to get some water before sheworked on her Spanish homework. Then, after she was done with it, she coulduse the entire weekend to practice.

Must win this game...

Much to Jezebelle's surprise, she found Jin forcing salad down his

mouth. Next, she noticed an extra empty bowl with small pieces of saladleftover. The current one in front of Jin was almost full but he was trying to eatit all. Jezebelle called Jin an idiot in her head before she went in the kitchen,which caused Jin to try to hide what he was doing.

Why don't you throw it away? asked Jezebelle, lifting a brow.

It's wasteful, said Jin sadly, eating another spoonful. I can't do that.

Removing a cup from the cupboard, Jezebelle said, I was actually withGiant on a Rinny stalking mission, not Shiratori. We bumped into Shiratori later

and he took me home. That's all.Jin gawked at her, realizing this was Jezebelle's way of apologizing. Fi!

Don't Fi me, Italian dressing, said Jezebelle, scowling and pouringwater into her cup.

You want to come to the beach with Jordan and I tomorrow? asked Jineagerly, happy now.

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Are you fucking kidding me? asked Jezebelle, gaping. It's fuckingcold!

We're not going to swim or anything...

I'm going shopping with Wendy tomorrow and then practicing tenniswith the girls, said Jezebelle, making up the lies as she went along. Besides,knowing Jordan Greene, he only wants to see you.

Er... said Jin, not knowing what to say to that. Well, will you behome later to eat dinner with us? We'll be working on our project.

If I feel like it, said Jezebelle, drinking all her water and placing thecup in the dishwasher. Are you going to wash the dishes or something? Hurryup and take care of it already. You need to copy my homework remember? Idon't want to do it later.

Oh okay, said Jin with a nod. Do you want the heater on since it'scold?

I'll live, said Jezebelle, scoffing it off. And... Jezebelle wrapped herarms in front of her chest and glanced away. I'll try not to run off next time,but that means you have to take me home yourself! Not your stupid friends!

Of course Fi, said Jin, beaming. He managed to finish the rest of thesalad. He was so full he couldn't move right now. I'm very sorry for leaving youlike that.

You better be, you melon head!Stomping out of the room, Jezebelle made a loud, angry noise before

she went to her room. Jin chuckled to himself at the sound before he gatheredall the bowls and placed them in the dishwasher. While he washed the dishes,Jin thought about how Jezebelle had forgiven him. In his mind, Jezebellerejoined the party to become his excellent black mage.

Meanwhile in her room, instead of doing her homework, Jezebelle wason her cell phone. After she made plans with Wendy to meet up to go shoppingcenter nearest to the beach, Jezebelle dialed yet another number.

What's up baby? asked Kirk on the other line.

Jezebelle could hear loud club music in the background, making herextremely jealous of his extraordinary freedom. Back at her old high school,she used to party all the time. Still, she kept it all on the inside for now sinceshe needed him for another reason.

Guess who's going to the beach tomorrow?

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******************************************Outside of Rin's house, Kristian sighed and thought about not bothering

her at this late hour. Jin told him on the phone earlier that the reason why Rinwas mad at him and ignored him from before was because he kept the wholeJin leaving the group away from her. Now, that she found out about it, what

should he say to her? Kristian knew he purposely kept it from her because hedidn't want to lose her to Jin. He wanted to protect her from the truth but atthe same time, he wanted her to stay with him. Was it selfish of him to wanthis girlfriend to be with him instead of her best friend?

Kristian!

Kristian picked up his head. Rin-chan, how?

My mom saw you from the living room window, said Rin, coming outtimidly. Kristian's eyes widened at the sight of her suitcase behind her. Shallwe get going then?

You...

I'm staying over at your house this weekend right? asked Rin with apleasant smile. Kristian was speechless. I want to sleep early so we shouldleave now. I already said good bye to Mother. You should too.

At Rin's suggestion, Kristian went back inside and say good-bye to Rin'smother, only to receive a tight hug from her and some advice. Even though Rincouldn't hear it, she heard both of them laughing. Immediately, she knew whather mother was talking about. Sorry Mother, thought Rin inwardly, I'm not goingto get knocked up just yet.

Rin-chan... said Kristian softly, coming out and wrapping his armsaround her neck. I didn't mean to hurt you, you know that right?

Rin laughed it off. Yeah. I know.

All I ever wanted to do was to protect you, said Kristian, sighing.

Suddenly, Rin removed Kristian's arms from her and forced them to standface to face. Rin tiptoed and pulled down his face to match her height. Kristianwas bit stunned by her sudden courage to face him.

Kristian, you need to understand, said Rin in a serious voice. Kristiannodded automatically. I am not like any of your other girlfriends! I don't needyou to protect me. I don't need you to spoil or say sweet stuff to me either. Idon't want any of that stuff.

What am I supposed to do then? asked Kristian, amused. Little Missywho likes to crush all my manly pride all at once.

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That's easy, said Rin, holding Kristian's hand and pulling him toward hiscar. Try to outsmart me in every way possible right? That's what you've beendoing all these years. Why stop now? Because we're dating?

On the contradictory, said Kristian, using a professor-like voice. We're

not actually dating because dating would imply that the girlfriend andboyfriend actually go on dates, which also indicates that there's a necessaryamount of hand-holding and kissing involved. The conclusion is therefore weare superficial girlfriend and boyfriend, which nullifies the definition of datingand leads to my responsibility to not only make fun of you but make you myrival like I've always done.

Shut up, said Rin, pushing Kristian around. Get in the car. I'm sleepy.I'm in no mood to argue with you.

Sitting in the car seats side by side, Kristian started up the engine beforehe asked, So what's Vance's parents like? Crazier than mine?

Rin smirked. You have no idea.

**********************************************That night, Jordan quickly checked his cell phone for the time in front of

the window. Much to Jordan's disbelief, he received a couple of missed callsfrom Jin along with others. Hurriedly, Jordan called Jin back and waitedanxiously for the other boy to pick up. It felt like forever before Jin askedJordan's name on the other line. Jordan released a long heavy sigh of relief.

Jordan, are you okay? asked Jin worriedly. You sound like you've beencrying.

Jordan wiped his face. No, why would I be?

Anyways, Fi came home, said Jin in a happy voice. Jordan could hearJezebelle screaming at somebody to pass her a pillow in the background. She'sthe same as ever. It turns out she was hanging with Bo after school.

That's good... said Jordan, relieved.

You shouldn't blame yourself for what happen.

No, it's all my fault, said Jordan insistently.

It's mostly my fault though, said Jin quickly to Jordan's defense.Anyway, we're going to the beach nearby right?

Yeah.

Cool, said Jin, amused. I'll pick you up and drive you then!

You don't have to do that Jin! said Jordan, flushing red. I'll do it!

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No, I'll do it, said Jin, laughing. I haven't drove my car in a while andwell, Fi convinced me that it's okay for me to drive everyone this Saturday aspayback for everything I've done. Also, about Vic...

Oh what happen with her? asked Jordan, trying to sound interested.

You knew about her situation before right?

Jordan laid his head back on his pillow. Yeah. Her family's homeless.They shouldn't even be staying at that house. The reason why she's so skinny isnot because she wants to be attractive. She actually eats very little since herfamily can't afford it.

Yeah... I didn't know what to do for her...

There's nothing you can do for her, said Jordan, noticing the sadness inJin's tone. By visiting her, Jin, I think you have done enough for her.

You sound so mature Jordan!

Jordan tried to hide his red face in the darkness. I-I'm not mature atall.

Well, I'm glad you're okay Jordan. I was getting worried since youwouldn't pick up the phone. I thought something happened to you.

Sorry...

Anyways, I'll pick you up tomorrow, said Jin, confirming the situation.

We'll be at the beach for a few hours and then go to my house in the eveningto work on our project. I'll be cooking dinner! Hopefully, you're not allergic tocheese or tomatoes!

I'm not, said Jordan, faking a laugh. Don't you find it... odd ...cooking for a guy?

No. Why? asked Jin, completely oblivious to Jordan's serious tone.Nothing, said Jordan quickly. I have to sleep now so nine tomorrow?

Sounds good. Good night Jordan!

After Jin hung up, Jordan looked out of his open window in front of him.Jordan laughed to himself in the darkness at the sight of the ground lowoutside his window. At the thought of them having a project due soon and themhaving dinner together with Jin's cooking no less, Jordan managed to shut hiswindow all the way. Today wasn't a good day, Jordan decided. He still had a lotof things left to do. Happily, Jordan left his room to take a night bath and brushhis teeth with thoughts of tomorrow.

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Author's Note

This chapter is longer than usual. Everything is coming together nicely and Ishould be able to fit more arcs in the next few chapters before going back tothe main plot (if there is one in your eyes). These days, I've been imagining theboys in formal suits. I have no idea why. I think Rin, Jezebelle, and Tiffany lookhandsome in suits too so I imagine them in my mental image as well. Again, Iwish I can draw but I won't because I suck. :P I guess writing is the best I can dofor now. Haha. Please comment and take the survey guys~ Thanks for yoursupport everyone!