My feelings sunk as Caroline faked the Big O. Why couldn't she just get herself seen by a Gynecologist? I mean, Simon was remarkable! Heck I was having a big O here just by reading it, and she wasn't! Obviously there was something insanely wrong here!

I shook my head as I read on, the feeling that Simon knew about her faking the Big O lingered in my mind and I knew that Caroline would have to face it sometime, or she was never going to get the Orgasm that had been stripped off her.

As the chapter ended, the reminder that I had homework to do now and the luxury of reading another chapter could only be used after I had finished the whole lot of homework sunk into my head. Letting out a soft sigh I placed my little doggy ear bookmark on the page and closed the book, placing it onto the window bench beside me.

The day was a dark one, it was also quite cold. I watched as the rain continued to pour over the dark forest, the windows were open and the cold breeze occasionally blew in, heavily flowing the drapes over my face. I smiled as the light white drapes caressed my cheeks and retreated back onto its original place.

It was also slightly foggy, the mountains at a far distance were barely visible as the slow mist flowed through towards the castle, the rain and the dark glow giving it the even more mystical vibe.

I scanned through the windows, as was my habit, trying to find any form of life inside there, maids, valets or whatever the fancy rich people had in castles, but stopped at the fourth floor balcony.

The man who usually stood there and always caught my eye, stood there against the balcony, his blue shirt shining through distinctively. His features were blurry but I was certain that he was staring at me just as I, him.

I had often caught the man standing there, and he had often caught me looking at the castle. I suppose it was awkward looking at each other from such a great distance all so often.

I wonder what he did there in the castle. Maybe I should wave? After all, we had been staring buddies for nearly a week.

Lifting my right hand, I waved at him unsurely, a small smile graced my lips. What for, I had no idea. It wasn't like the man could see me smiling from there. Heck, I couldn't even see his face! How would he see me smile?

The man just stood there and I feeling like an idiot, placed my arm back onto my lap and looked down embarrassed.

God Theia! That man must be think you're such an idiot! Make a run for it woman!

My face burning with embarrassment I quickly lifted my gaze towards the window to close it when I saw the man still standing there. He was waving back.

A short laugh left my lips as I instantly waved back happily and closed the window, walking towards my study table.

That man had seen me wave. He had waved back!

'I wonder if the man knows of the other guy who jumped off of the balcony that night?' I thought as I sat on the chair and grabbed hold of my text books. Art canvas, pastels and paint rested just by my feet and I looked at them awkwardly.

My hands were itching to grab hold on them and just get on with it but I had homework to do first. Oh the pain of being a student!

It had been a week since I'd last seen Bryce, two days since the stalker incident, this being the second day and due to a storm it was announced that Rosenberg High would be closed for the day. Although I had had most of my assignments completed and packed I had only realized this morning that Math and Biology was still pending and due by tomorrow.

As for the stalker, there had not been any visible signs of anyone being in my room, other than the open windows every morning. But being as forgetful as ever, I could never seem to remember if I had in fact closed the window the previous night or not, after all I was not one to close windows. Especially when there was barely any solid ground beyond it.

Suddenly a ping sounded from my phone, bringing me out of my thoughts and I placed the pen down and picked my cellphone, unlocking it.

From: Dada
Pumpkin,
I am taking your mother on a date tonight, so we will be late. There is cash inside the linen draw in kitchen, please order yourself some pizza? Lock the doors and windows if you feel unsafe and keep me or mom on speed dial! Be good!
Love,
Dad.

I grinned as I typed back a reply. Tonight, the house was all mine!

Placing the cellphone back I got busy with Calculus. It couldn't find the Y to its X itself now could it?

I rolled my eyes at the stupid thought.

Of course, it couldn't.

.

.

.

Walking out of the bathroom I caught sight of my reflection in the mirror and cringed.

Staring back at me, was a wet cat.

Shaking my head I ran towards the closet and instantly rushed into it. My tummy was twisting and turning like anything and the fried chicken and fries from KFC that rested on the kitchen Island wasn't going to finish itself.

Hastily I grabbed onto a black boy-short panty and a matching black bra before pulling into a grey tribal cotton tights and a slightly cropped grey sweatshirt. Deciding to let my hair air dry I rubbed the towel against it trying to wipe out excess water before placing the towel on the towel hanger, gathering my hair on one side, grabbing onto my cellphone and trotting downstairs.

The heavenly scent of the fried chicken drifted through the kitchen into the hallway as I rounded towards the kitchen, smiling because I had food in my sight.

I grabbed onto a plate when a ping rang through the kitchen and I instantly walked towards the island and picked up my phone.

From: Cas-Cas.
Owen asked me out today. I don't know what to say! Should I say yes or should I say no? Omg! I have been crushing on him since junior year! I should say yes! But his a player... Maybe I should say no. HELP ME OUT WOMAN!
- A VERY DESPERATE CAS! x

I flinched. That Owen was bad news!

To: Cas-Cas
It's truly up to you. But I don't really want you dating him, he is a disgusting idiot and I rather you go out with Leo. Before you say something, Yes Leo, he has had a crush on you since sophomore year Cas, it's about time! Besides, he is a hunk and a math wiz! How could you want more!
-Hopeful Thi. x

"She should really just ask Leo out" I mumbled as I placed the phone back on the island and glanced up.

My heartbeat just somehow stopped.

"What the hell" I whispered as I stared shocked at the man sitting on the swing, in the rain, glancing down at his lap as his hands held onto the ropes.

My body froze when I realized who it was.

Bryce....

I hesitated. Taking I step forward I stopped. He had a girlfriend... But then he was getting cold... But.. But then...

I shook my head and turned away. Holding my breath as I tried to admit it to myself. I had missed him.

As if that had been the missing key I blinked back my tears and quickly moved towards the back door, rushing outside.

Picking up an umbrella from the stand I slipped my feet into a pair of flip-flops and walked out in the rain.

I should go back! But is he okay? Why the hell isn't he looking up? Is he... No shut up Thi!

"Bryce?" I asked softly as I stood infront him. Instantly his head lifted and his eyes met mine. His clenched jaw immediately relaxed and he smiled sadly.

"Hi," he said quietly, still sitting on the swing calmly.

What's happening?

"Hi," I replied, cocking an eyebrow upwards, looking at him questioningly.

"Hi." he repeated, still looking quite unreadable, his blue eyes peering into my boring light brown eyes.

I sighed. I couldn't stand it.

"Let's get you inside, come on." I murmured as I grasped onto one of his hand, the rain tickling my skin as each cold droplet touched and slid down my bare-arm.

Bryce stared at my hand holding his, before he let out a chuckle.

"Letting a stranger in, Theia? That's not a very smart thing to do" Bryce smirked, standing up.

I flinched back with guilt and grief. I let go of his hand I looked away while he continued to tower me by good inches. I couldn't even reach up to his chin properly.

Bryce's taunting smirk deepened as he looked at me staring at him, pulling me out my shocked state.

My face turned into a scowl.

Fine then, you rude man! I thought as i regarded him with a sudden hardness.

I mean I am not the one well on my way to getting a bad cold or anything, he is!

"Maybe I'm not being very smart right now, but I'd rather not let a man sit outside in the rain for God knows what reason. I'm going in, you can follow if you want to. Incase you don't, bye Bryce." I snapped back and without a second look at him, marched my way to the door. All the while cussing at myself for being such an idiot! I should never have gone out.

Sighing sadly as I reached the patio door, I placed the umbrella beside the door and pushed it open. Getting in, I turned around to close the door but gasped when my face collided with a hard chest.

I think I just broke my nose.

Strong hands immediately grabbed onto my shoulder and pulled me forward, rescuing my from falling on my ass and embarrassing myself.

I mumbled a quick thank you before moving out of his grasp.

Damn his touch for electrocuting me in the most sweetest ways!

"I'll get you some dry clothes, although I'm not sure if it will fit you. My dad isn't as huge as you are" I mumbled, and quickly shot upstairs, but not before nodding shyly at Bryce's thanks.

Rummaging through dad's clothes I thanked God he was on the bulky side when I finally found a grey t-shirt and a deep blue sweatpants.

Walking downstairs I came to stop, a very shirtless Bryce stood by the kitchen island glaring in the direction of my iPhone which was blaring my ringtone around the room.

How had I not hear it?

I slowly moved towards Bryce, my cheeks probably the color of blood as I tried my hardest to ignore the bulging of his muscles and how wonderfully formed they were.

"Here," I handed him the clothes keeping my eyes on my iPhone.

Alex Calling...

Damn it! What does he want!

Sighing I grabbed the phone and pressed accept, not noticing that Bryce had not moved an inch, his jaws clenched in a death grip.

"Hello" I mumbled into the iPhone. This boy better have a good re-

"Two minutes! Just two minutes! That's all I ask!" Alex's insistent voice grounded out and the scowl on my face deepened.

Ugh! Fine!

"... Okay, start!"

I thought I heard a low growl behind me and upon turning smashed my nose into a warm wall again.

Crap! My nose sure is not happy right now!

As if noticing 'who' the wall was, I titled my head upwards. Bryce looked pissed, in fact he looked livid. As if sensing my eyes on him he looked at me, still looking livid.

"You're so scary" I whisper yelled at him before getting my attention back at the phone.

"I'm sorry for whatever happened that day! I'm sorry I didn't tell you about Diandra! It's just that... I wanted to break up with—okay listen, I'm sorry okay! I just want to be friends if you let me! Matt and the guys are avoiding me now!"

I stared at the now dark screen, affectively ignoring the tiny growls emitting from a certain man who I suppose had throat issues.

I really wasn't one for fighting forever. So I sighed as I mumbled back a small reply, "Okay. See you in school tomorrow! Bye Alex!" and disconnected the call after hearing a happy thanks and bye.

Placing the phone back onto the island I turned around again, only this time Bryce wasn't behind me.

I shrugged and picked out another plate. I guessed Bryce would like some chicken and fries too.

Bringing out a can of cola I took a sip and placed it on the island and turned around only to be pulled towards a hard chest, thankfully this time my nose got spared.

"Ummfh!" I groaned as my cheek slammed against a hard chest. "What is it with you and me slamming against you!"

My eyes drifted towards the sweatpants and I instantly blushed. The sweatpants clutched to his hips deliciously. Too deliciously. My gaze moved upwards, slowly, and I noticed the absence of t-shirt.

"What happened to the shirt?" I questioned him and Bryce smiled sheepishly at me. He nervously ran a hand over his hair, leaving me suddenly wishing I could do the same.

"Well... I wore it, but then I moved my hands and... It ripped."

Woah!

"Oh," I mumbled dumbly as I grasped onto the can of cola again and took a long sip, avoiding the feeling of having Bryce's intense gaze on me. For the fifth time I silently reminded myself that he had a girlfriend.

Thi! Breathe! Breathe!

"So... Er... Chicken and fries?"

Bryce smiled and nodded before he grabbed the plates and the can of cola, he took a long sip lightly closing his eyes for a second.

Damn, maybe he likes cola a lot?

Grabbing onto the bag I lead him towards the living room and plopped down on the seat, Bryce settled down beside me.

Well... This was going to be interesting!
For my sake though I wished he would just leave though.

*

"So, why were you on my swing again?" I asked Bryce as I dipped a particularly beautiful looking French fry into sweet and sour sauce and plopped it into my mouth, running the tip of my tongue around my lip to wipe the sauce away.

I noticed Bryce catch that, and his eyes instantly darken.

Oh my god... Was he... Oh no... Wait but if he really did get affected by a lip lick? ... And If he kisses me? But his girl friend? Theia, you are going to die for this!

"I wanted to meet you,"

I stilled.

"So you waited outside, in the rain?" I mumbled back, and glanced at Bryce... Who sat beside me munching on his fried chicken, his eyes glued on the TV screen. But I knew he was paying attention, his back was too stiff not to.

"I really wanted to meet you."

I sighed. There was no winning like this.

"Why?" I asked him, honestly curious why he would take such a big step to meet me.

He turned towards me and our eyes locked for a second or two before his returned back to the TV screen.

"Bec-"

Just then a very loud ping rang out from the direction of my phone.

I looked down at my empty plate before I grabbed hold of the bags and moved towards the kitchen as Bryce popped the last bit of chicken into his mouth and moved behind me.

Quickly doing the dishes I made my way towards my phone, slightly conscious of Bryce sitting on the sofa watching some random contestant singing on 'The Voice'.

I grabbed my phone and smiled. My folks were really missing me today.

From: Matty.
Elo? (Do I sound British enough?) come over tonight if you can, I shall have Cookies and milk! -Matt
---
From: Matty.
I also have Christmas pudding ice-cream ;) (I know you want it!) -Again, Matt
---
From: Cas-Cas.
Guess what... I just asked Leo out. HE SAID YES! OH MY GOD! OH MY GOD! - A very ecstatic Cas!
---
From: Blonde.
Thank you for the second chance Thi! I won't mess it up! -Alex
---
From: Ley.
Elo baby ;) I am bringing our art project ideas tomorrow... Think of some ideas too aye? BTW, we need a sleepover soon! - Marley xx
---
From: Private Number.
Smiling over a text from your 'boyfriend' Theia?

My eyes widened on their own accord as I read the most recent message. From an unknown number.

I quickly turned around searching the house for someone spying on me when my gaze fell on Bryce, his cellphone in his hands he looked at me with his jaws clenched.

Why does he look like he has his panties in a twist? Oh god why does his clenched jaws have my panties twisting?

I shook my head. Girlfriend.

"How did you get my number?" I hissed as I walked towards him cautiously.

He looked like he was about to explode.

"I have my ways."

My frown deepened. I stood in front him, my hands clutching my cellphone, whereas he sat on the sofa regarding me now with silent indifference. In he back of my mind I thought I deserved a little bit of that, I had been so rude to him that day after all. But I couldn't let him know that.

"What kind of ways! Why did you even want to meet me? Are you the one who yelled at Alex over the phone?!"

He remained silent. And that pissed me off.

"Well?" I growled, my teeth clenched in irritation.

"You want to know why Theia?" His now dark blue eyes challenged me, as he leaned forward, looking very intimidating.

"Yes," I retorted stubbornly, folding my arms against my chest.

Suddenly his arms shot forward, grabbed mine and pulled me down on top of him as his lips touched mine.

I could tell his arms were slipping around my waist and grasping into it like his life depended on It but those were all hazy, the only thing I could focus on was the his lips moving against mine, nipping as he ran his tongue along my bottom lip as if asking for entrance. His hand found my bottom and a jumbled shriek ripped out of my throat when he landed his big hand swiftly on my butt with a speed and force that left my senses hazy for a second or two.

As if seeing it as an opportunity his tongue instantly dipped into my mouth and twirled around mine, taking full possession of my senses. I couldn't decide, common sense told me to move away because he was clearly in a complicated relationship but everything else told me to stay.

"I don't know what I said wrong the last time, you literally just cut me off. But I'd been thinking, and I reckon it was because of the maybe," Bryce let out a low unreal growl as he deepened our kiss, his fingers now gracing my naked belly.

I flinched his acknowledgement, immediately tried to move away. How could someone have a serious conversation when their body kept singing and sighing and their brain couldn't operate.

As if sensing that I wanted to move away his grip on my bare waist tightened and he pulled me close.

A whimper of excitement left my lips as I forgot all rational thoughts and moved closer against him.

Damn it Theia! Bad Theia! Bad!

A groan left his lips and he broke our kiss, immediately leaving hot trails of kisses on my jaw and neck. Paying particular interest to a spot had made me moan every time his lips touched it.

"You. I came for you. Because when I said maybe and that it's complications I meant that I haven't asked you out yet." He growled low, as he brought his lips back to mine.

I couldn't breathe. The secret place between my thighs was crying out for something I had only read in story books about and although I suddenly wanted it as badly as one could, it shocked me that I barely known Bryce as much I want to. How could we possibly kiss if I don't even know his last name?

"B-Bryce no. Please," I sighed as he nibbled on my sweet spot. He stilled and lifted his eyes up to meet mine.

Gone were the bright blue orbs, his eyes were darker in a sense they almost looked grey.

I felt my cheeks heat up as I looked down at my legs, still around him, god I was so embarrassed!

"Theia?" Bryce murmured slowly as he placed a finger under my chin and titled my head to face him.

"I barely know your last name, and than this. I feel like an idiot," I whispered, my eyes wide and hazy with unshed tears.

He must be thinking I'm a young idiot! That I'm a ... Bitch...

I cringed at the thought and a traitor tear spilled down onto my cheek. Bryce grimaced as he watched me and placing his thumb against my cheek, wiped the tear away.

I noticed I was still straddling him and instantly tried to move away but Bryce's firm grip on my waist stopped me.

"There is nothing to feel embarrassed about Theia. You're beautiful and kind and very smart, but best of all, you're mine. Or... I hope you will be! We've known each other for two weeks, I know but than have so much time to get to know each other so don't think like you don't know me, you will." Bryce mumbled softly as he looked straight into my eyes, not once breaking eye contract.

I sighed and found myself nodding.

Was I actually saying yes to being his? ...

A small smile graced Bryce's lips as he leaned in and placed a soft kiss on my forehead.

"Good" he mumbled softly As his warm breath fanned against my cheeks where he placed another soft kiss.

"I have to go now" he muttered, his arms sliding around me as he pulled me in for a hug. My face smacked against his naked shoulder and I immediately blushed.

"Thi?"

"Huh... Yeah?" I croaked, broken out of my thoughts as I looked at a curious looking Bryce.

"I said it's getting dark, I have to go now." Bryce murmured softly as he held me against him.

Dear God,
Please don't make him a serial killer something. Actually make him a good guy please!
Amen.

I sent a silent prayer upwards and nodded into Bryce's embrace.

"What are you going to do all night?" Bryce suddenly asked me.

He wanted to know what I will do? Er...

I thought over Matthew's text, then Marley's... Hmm!

"Well Matt called me over for a movie, he actually lives next door. And then I have to think up ideas for arts project!" I answered, keeping a steady look on his expression which was turning slightly grim.

"Matt is a friend?" Bryce asked, his voice dangerously low.

"Most definitely!" I answered, my voice confident.

"Okay, just... don't let him touch you."

I rolled my eyes and pulled out of Bryce's grip, pulling him up with me too. Damn, he was heavy!

Bryce chuckled as he got up.

"You're so tall," I grumbled. Thank god not adding the 'stomping foot' bit afterwards.

Bryce chuckled again before he placed both hands on my waist and just like it was nothing, lifted me up until my face was level with his.

My feet automatically wrapped around his waist and pulling me against him he placed a playful kiss on the tip of my nose.

"I wouldn't have it another way, love."

Gah! How can he know all the right things to say!?

I rolled my eyes at him and Bryce silently chuckled before walking towards the back door.

"Where do you live?" I grimaced, my eyes on the thick layer of forest.

The rain had stilled as we walked outside, it was growing dark, the sun was just about sink and the bats were coming out to play. Ugh! I hated bats!

I could feel Bryce still under me but he kept walking towards the patio but he kept on walking with me clinging off him like a monkey or something.

"I live just beyond the forest," he muttered, sounding guarded.

"But the forest goes on for miles," I mumbled back, trying to study his expression.

He nodded at me. "Yes it does."

"Then why do you go around dancing through the forests? Don't you know there's wolves in there?"

Bryce looked at me with a curious expression.

"Are you scared of wolves Theia?"

I frowned, "No... I quite like them! But not when they would like you as a meal!" I answered, shifting in his hold so I could properly hook my legs around him.

Come to think of it, it actually felt comfortable. Ah! The pros of having a buff man holding you. And ah! British accent, swoon!!

Bryce looked at me for a while before he broke down laughing, his deep voice ringing out in the evening loud and beautiful. Despite myself, I rolled my eyes. He was laughing at me after all.

"I assure you love, the last things wolves would want, is me."

"But isn't it getting a bit too dark for you to make your way through the woods?"

"Don't worry love, I know my way through the woods." Bryce muttered, his breath fanning my forehead as I studied a scar on his chest.

"Look at me," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.

Feeling a little on the shy side I lifted my gaze to his and smiled when I realized how adorable he looked, his face was set a soft wispy expression and it made him look like a kid.

I held back a small gasp as I noticed his eyes zero on my lips before he leaned in slowly and planted his lips on mine.

This kiss was different, it was warm and soft and sweet, unlike the one before... What was raw and passionate. To be honest, I liked both equally. Bryce nibbled on my bottom lip before pulling it lightly and then breaking the kiss. We stood there for a second or two, I sighed as I relished in his closeness. It felt like I needed him.

It felt like I needed a guy I barely knew.

And by the way he was acting, maybe he needed me too?

Was this how it was in real life?

Clumsy and irrational? Yet the most rational thing ever?

I sighed contently as I held onto Bryce, my face resting on his shoulder.

"I have to go, love." Bryce murmured softly, for what felt like the third time that day, yet he made no move to let go so I nodded.

"Okay," I said softly and looked at the ground.

As if he caught onto my unspoken indication Bryce slowly let go and I slid onto the ground. A shiver ran through my skin as my bare feet touched the wet grass, and I smiled at the feel of it.

Everything was always so pretty after it rained.

Arms reached out and pulled me close. "I'll see you soon okay?"

I nodded as I hugged Bryce back. "Okay,"

He broke our hug and moved towards the forest. I stood still as I watched him enter the dark dense trees. As he disappeared into the darkness he turned around and gave me a wave. I smiled and waved back at him.

I'll see him soon was the last thought I had as I turned around and walked towards the house.

.

.

.

The persistent sounds of chimes stirred me from my sleep as I reached for my phone to turn of the darn alarm.

Every night I set up the alarm thinking it to be a great idea, and every morning I groaned about why I did this to myself!

Smacking the phone against my pillow I literally slithered out of bed and onto the floor. I really did not want to go to school... But my assignments needed to be submitted, and the flawless attendance record wasn't going to keep on going flawlessly by itself now would it?

Just then a knock sounded from my room door and I yelled out a weak "I'm up I'm up!" before crawling towards the bathroom.

The door shot open and I instantly shot my head towards the person standing just inside my bedroom, looking at me with wide eyes.

"What are you doing?" Matthew exclaimed, clearly trying to hold on his laughter. He seemed ready for school in his unusual style of buttoned down plain white shirt and black jeans with black supras, and then there was those nerd glasses of his.

I rolled my eyes.

Was he dumb? Did he not see I was crawling my way to the bathroom? And what was he doing here so early?

"Can't you see? I'm going to the bathroom. Why are you here so early anyway?" I questioned him as I turned my face towards the bathroom door and continued to crawl towards it.

"It's 8 Thi. We are nearly late" Matthew chuckled, unable to contain his laughter as it flowed out in strings just when I stopped crawling, got up and instantly ran into the bathroom.

Damnation! I was never late!

I marched out of the shower into my room wrapped up in a towel when a sudden thud caught my attention and I turned around to face a very red faced, wide eyed Matthew.

A shriek escaped my lips and I made a run towards the closet and once in, bolted the door shut.

"S-Sorry!" I heard Matthew mumble against the door and I nodded before realizing he could not even see me.

Dear Theia,
you are an idiot!
Love, You.

"It's okay, you just scared me that's all!" I called out before walking towards the floor length mirror that was installed against the free wall.

A gasp left my lips as I stared at the bruise on the base of my neck. My sweet spot! The love bite shon proudly in its maroon splendor showing off that the carrier had actually had some 'fumble' time. Goodness!

I had ended up going over to Matthews last night. The idiot had played The Exorcist, thinking it would be okay and he could handle it... But half way through with both of us on the verge of pissing our pants, someone had to call quits.

I was glad he did.

Coming home past 10 I had made him drop me home, and was actually grateful when I had found dad and mum already in and worried.

Naturally, dad had, had to drop Matthew back to his place. I swear that boy needed to grow some when it came to horror movies.

Sighing I decided to just let my hair down. The love bite was pretty deep maroon and quite apparent but hopefully with my long hair open I could conceal it long enough for it to fade.

Slipping on my undies I grabbed onto a pair of dark jeans and pulled it on, quickly slipped into a white and blue striped tank top and black leather jacket. It was quite chilly today so i pulled on a red beanie and fit into my red converse. Smiling at my reflection contently I opened the door to walk outside when a yellow scarf caught my eye and without a second thought I wrapped it around my neck.

Great! I have protection now!

"Let's go Matty boy!" I called out as I picked up my packed backup lying beside the closet door and walked towards the doorway without a second glance around the room.

"Coming," Matthew called from behind me and I briefly turned towards him to smile before, again, starting to walk away.

*

"She will come and get you" a warm breath fanned my ears and I instantly stilled. My hand still in my locker, holding my Biology text book.

This was insane! There could be no ghosts in a hallway full of students! Still a bit shaky I turned around and immediately moved back against the locker.

"Shit Mathew! That was not funny!" I hissed, giving the hysterical looking Matthew the best death glare I could conjure.

"Scared little Theia" Matt teased as he gloated in his success.

So immature!

I rolled my eyes and turned to take my biology book out before closing the locker shut.

"Let's just go to Biology Class moron"

Matthew's smug grin widened as he followed me into class and I was sure, by the end of the day, I was going to kick his ass.

Or... I could get back at him. Oh good one Thi!

*

"So what about the sleepover?" Marley asked as we placed our lunch trays on the table and slid in beside Matthew and his friends, Connor, Jeff, and Keith. Alex, like always was at Diandra's table, his arms placed around her shoulders.

I smiled. They actually did look great together. Alex and Diandra, made for each other!

It was strange though how Matt's buddies from both Football and Math Group could mingle together so nicely.

Jeff, was the 'Mathlete' of the three but he looked anything but that. With windswept black hair and fairly pale skin he totally defied his stereotype of 'skinny kid wearing checked shirts and has no social skills', quite on the contrary, Jeff had proper broad shoulders and a pretty good body.

Then there was Connor. Now, however well Jeff managed to defy his stereotype, Connor was quite the opposite. In Fact, he was the definition of a how a high school jock would look like. With a bulky form (all muscle no fat) and sun kissed blonde hair, a tan any pale girl could die for and a bad ass player attitude, Connor was it.

Then came Keith. Him holding the position of a striker in his team totally described his personality.Striking. He too had jet Black hair that managed to hold a shine that would make the girls in Dove advertisements jealous. What was striking about him though was his amazing blue eyes, and then there was his personality. He was unlike any other. And apparently, the only one with enough common sense in his team to play football and not play girls.

"You guys are having a sleepover?" Connor asked, his gaze on Matthew. The grin on his face was actually making me quite suspicious!

"Yes," I nodded, still looking at The boys with narrow suspicious eyes.

"Awesome! We're having a sleepover!" Connor exclaimed, quite loudly, and I think about half of the cafeteria heard.

"No you're not!" Marley protested instantly, her hand smacking against the plastic of the cafeteria table.

Jeff chuckled as he put his hands up in retreat, Keith however grinned at Marley and gave her a small wink, surprising both Marley and I. I looked at Marley to see her blushing.

Ahh! Potential!

Grinning I turned my attention back to Connor.

"No it's a girls sleepover, no boys allowed! Can you not have your own sleepover!" I blurted, looking at Matthew silently begging him to agree.

Matthew grinned at me and shrugged lazily, not at all taking my side. Well, it wasn't going to happen anyway! 'No Boys Allowed' was the fundamental law of sleepovers.

"Can you not use English like you are from 1880 Britain?" Connor countered and I grimaced. I couldn't help it! I read those books all the time!

"Shut up ConCon" I grumbled as I shoved in a spoonful of soup into my mouth. Damn, it was hot!

"Don't call him ConCon! It actually sounds cute. Which he is not!" Marley whined as she bit onto her burger.

I giggled. It was true. Connor looked anything but cute.

Just then the siren went off for end of lunch and the boys, Marley and I quickly scrambled to our feet and marched towards our respective classes. Marley and I's being Arts.

*

"Guess what we are going to paint today guys?" Our teacher whose name was too hard to remember asked us, her sweet smile painted onto her face by angels. I had never seen her pissed off, she was always smiling.

"Those boring cups and bottles?" A deep voice spoke up from the further back of the class.

Curiosity got the best of me and I turned towards the voice but stopped dead in my position as I stared at him.

Our eyes met.

The boy had shoulder length jet black hair. Truth be told, he looked dangerous. Now, I wasn't much for being judgmental but I was surprised he hadn't swore at me by now considering I was actually staring at him quite offensively.

"What?" He called out loudly, his voice almost threatening. My eyes widened as I realized he had actually yelled at me.

"Shit!" I mumbled embarrassed as I quickly turned to face our arts lady-teacher-woman-whoever.

She smiled at me softly before moving her gaze behind me, probably at dangerous dude whose name I didn't know. "No Rome. We are going to paint each other."

She turned her attention to everyone and smiled.

"I know you all are sorted into partners but this bit is something I do every year with my students. So, a selected number of ladies will be called out as muses. The rest of you ladies and lads will hold the responsibility of tracing their essence onto your canvases. The names are as follows-"

My insides fluttered with excitement, this was going to be great! I didn't really care whether I was selected as a painter or a muse. I would be happy to be both since this project actually seemed exciting.

"-Heather Johenson, Amelia Brooks, Marlene Smith, Vannessa Jule, Sarah Louis, and Theia Anderson. Make your way up here ladies! Now, the rest of you... Please choose your muse. And remember, it should be someone who intrigues you. Not only by personality... But by looks, I want to see that on the canvas. Oh and guys, this will contribute 25% towards your final grades and GPA. Let us begin!"

"We're friggin muses!" Marley whispered as we both walked up to stand beside the rest of the girls. Most either grinning or shy. However some, like Marley and I, incredibly excited! Art was a passion after all!

As we stood before the rest of the class, I did a slow class sweep, trying to gauge how each of the kids still sitting actually were.

Arts class was fairly small, considering that people in Rosenberg High rather ignored their artistic sides, or aimed towards music classes instead.

I glanced towards Joshua, who smiled at me... I smiled back. He seemed nice.

Behind him sat Kenny, i grimaced picturing him make me switch positions a million types before he finally decided on a perfect position and pose. That guy took being a perfectionist to a whole new level.

On the far corner sat Emegin, the cool kid, he grinned as he felt my gaze on him and I blushed instantly, he was kind of cute with those dimples and all... And actually, I wouldn't mind him trying to paint me. He was pretty good at it!

Beside him, sat Laila aka the chick who rocks goth. Her dark straight hair fell over her face, hiding most of her eyes and right cheek as she slumped against the table, her eyes equally analyzing a good enough candidate for her capability. I wondered how she would be if I became her muse.

My eyes sort to the front of the class, just in front of me sat Lionel, I smiled at him and his eyes widened a fraction before he smiled back. I actually liked the guy, his nerd glasses made his beautiful grey eyes shine bigger and his finger combed red hair seemed adorable. What topped it all though was that he was incredibly talented!

Infact, everyone in class was incredibly talented, that was the best thing about art class... We all appreciated art and although most girls leaned more towards water colors, because let's face it, it's beautiful, we all tried and were well versed with everything from paint to pencils and pastels. Ms. Swein I think, made sure of that.

And then my eyes found the person I was trying desperately to avoid. The guy whose name I couldn't remember, although Ms. Swein had just said a few minutes ago. I think it was Greece?

His dark eyes were already piercing through me as I glanced at him and almost instantly bit back a gasp. He looked like I was food! Or maybe he just wanted to cut me up and feed me to the dogs or something. Bottom line was, he scared the heck out of me and I would rather partner up with Kenny than him!

Just as quickly as I glanced at him, I looked away, But I could still feel his intense gaze on me. What was wrong with him?

"Okay let's start!" Ms. Swein exclaimed excitedly. " Let's start with Emigen! Emigen, who do you pick as your muse?"

Emigen smiled as he clearly looked amongst us girls standing in front of the class.

"I pick Marlene," he called out, sounding quite confident. I could see where he was going actually, Marley had this amazing innocent look about her... It was only natural the bad boy would try to capture it.

I snickered when I heard Marley groan under her breath as she moved towards Emigen and grabbed a seat on the other side of him. I guess she didn't like him!

"Okay! Next up is Kenny!" Ms. Swein called out excitedly, clapping her hands together as her whole body buzzed with happiness. How could someone be so happy? All the time?

It didn't take Kenny a second before he announced his muse. Sarah. Unlike Marley, Sarah seemed quite exited to be paired up with Kenny. At least someone was happy about being paired with Ken.

"Lionel" Ms. Swein smiled as she indicated who pick next.

Lionel's eyes landed on me and I smiled softly, I wouldn't mind pairing with him... He looked like a sweetheart. "T-Theia" he murmured, his face turning a little deeper shade of red. The lad was shy.

Suddenly, a hand slammed against the desk loudly causing all the girls in class to gasp and jump in their places. Everyone immediately looked towards the source of the loud noise.

The guy whose name I couldn't remember stood glaring at Lionel, his fists clenched on top the desk as he quite obviously did nothing to control his temper. What had happened to him?

"Do you have a problem, Rome?" Ms. Quite possibly Swein quiestionsd him, her voice stern. Oh so his name was Rome! How unusual!

His glare moved towards her.

"Theia is my muse." he growled loudly, suddenly moving forward before moving back again, as if thinking better of it.

I could only stare, just as they other students in the class, as I watched Lionel flinch under Rome's glare.

"Well, Lionel has already picked Theia, you may pick someone else" Ms. Swein replied, her posture impeccably straight, just like my posture would be whenever I was usually nervous.

So... She was scared of Rome?

"No. Lionel can pick someone else. Theia is my muse!" Rome growled, this time louder as he took a step forward, the veins on his hands and neck becoming more prominent.

That's when I had enough. I was my own person and he could not just behave like this. Even though out of nowhere he decided to make me his muse, right after yelling at me!

"Lionel picked me first, I'm his muse," I spoke up for the first time since the argument started and everyone's wide eyes moved towards me, seeming to widen more out of fear.

Were they afraid of me... Or afraid for me?

I looked at Lionel, who seemed scared out of his pants. He caught my eye and gave me a pleading look as if telling me not to continue this. I frowned.

There was no way I was going to let this scary guy win.

"No he didn't, did you Lionel?"

I gasped as I stepped back out of instinct. Rome was now standing in front of me.

"Mr. Naight you can not force someone" Ms. Swein warned him from behind me, her voice a bit shaky. I guess everyone was scared of Rome.

"Did you Lionel?" Rome repeated, ignoring Ms.S, his voice steely.

"I-I pick H-Heather" Lionel mumbled, his face turned towards the floor.

Meanwhile, I glared at Rome. Who stood in front of me looking quite indifferent to the wide eyed students and the slightly fuming teacher.

"Good boy." Rome said, his demeanor still indifferent. I gasped as he pulled onto my hand, and started walking towards his desk.

I looked back at Lionel, he had a sad smile on his face as he looked back. Heather sitting quiet beside him.

With all the strength I could muster I broke away from Rome's grip and walking towards Lionel, I bent down and hugged him.

"I'm sorry man." I mumbled and with a shaky smile, walked back to the now fuming Rome, who sat in his seat.

I rolled my eyes as I took a place beside him and instantly my eyes met with Marley's.

Frowning, she mouthed a "He likes you". I rolled my eyes at her.

But she talked sense. Either he liked me, or he wanted to kill me.

"Joshua and Liala, pick your muse please" Ms. Swein spoke, her voice seemingly clipped. Someone was getting detention soon.

Joshua yelled out almost instantly "Amelia!"

The small fallout forgotten almost immediately everyone seemed to giggle as Amelia walked towards a grinning Joshua and Vanessa towards Laila.

Everyone knew Joshua had a crush on Amelia. I think even Amelia knew.

"Alright class! So since this is art I will not give you a set time to submit it, after all, we all need our time zones when we feel inspired the most. But you will have to submit this in the beginning of the last month of school so I can grade your work. Artists, you and your muse will work on this project at home, in a park, wherever you are comfortable but not in class. Unless I give you permission to. You have all picked your own muses and I expect no bitter ends. Are we clear?" Ms. Swein asked, her clipped back red hair gave her a very solemn look.

"Yes Ms. Sveen" everyone replied and I bit my tongue out of shock.

"OHH!! So her name is Ms. Sveen!"I mumbled to myself, mortified at the thought of actually yelling out Swein and getting laughed at by the whole class.

"Do you have a free class after this?" Rome suddenly spoke up from beside me, and I instantly stiffened. Something about him yelled out 'DANGEROUS' and I sure wasn't going to poke my head in that section.

"Maybe you shouldn't paint when you're so angry" I mumbled back, my voice barely above a whisper but I guess he heard because he turned towards me. I could feel him regarding me with his cold eyes.

"Do you have free classes?" Rome repeated icily. Gone was the restrain holding back his anger.

I sighed. How was I going to get an A in this project if all Mr. I'm going to smash your head and I did was fight?

Sighing I closed my eyes for a brief motion repeating the mantra "Be Calm. Be Calm" over and over.

When I felt the tension flow out of me, I opened my eyes and smiled at Rome whose eyes widened at my change in behavior.

If there was one place I would not mind having him it was at home. There was no way I was going anywhere alien with him. He could be Jeff the Killer for all I know!

"I don't have free class after this but how about we go to my place? It has a great view?"

Rome did not reply, So I just shrugged it off and continued coloring in the blacks on my sketchpad.

"You do know that's lame right?" A deep, slightly husky voice sneered almost against my ear causing me to pull away.

I narrowed my eyes at Rome.

"Shut up moron! Never! I repeat, never! Call Beauty and the Beast lame! Adam and Belle are life!"

"Now who the heck is Adam?" Rome exclaimed, seeming suddenly frustrated as he whirled his hands around in the air like a crazy person.

I stared at him. He couldn't be serious!

"Y-oh never mind I will just make you watch it!" I replied, before moving back to coloring into the blacks.

Adam came first.

-------------------

Novel Reference:

The Wallbanger - Alice Clayton.