"Ah damn, that hurt." I winced in pain after attempting to move my legs. After the brutal and intolerable training with the girls' soccer team yesterday, I was out like a light as soon as I got back to my room. Rubbing my eyes sleepily, I scanned the surroundings, and sure enough, Meredith was on her desk, engrossed with her notes.

"Took you long enough to wake up. I couldn't waste another minute listening to your loud snores." She mumbled without sparing me a glance. I rolled to the other side of the bed and lifted the blanket over my head.

"Yeah, whatever." I said nonchalantly, already used to her snobby attitude. She sighed before I heard footsteps coming towards me. I groaned when she yanked the blanket off of my body.

"Nuh-uh," She tutted. "No more sleeping, lazy ass. It's almost ten in the morning." Shooting her a hard glare, I sluggishly sat up and let out a yawn. I went over to my closet and found my old red track suit that I used to wear back then in middle school. I swung it over my shoulder.

"I'm going out for a morning jog. Care to join me?" I inquired. Meredith sipped on her hot chocolate as she waved a hand dismissively.

"Nah, I got my hands full. I need to prepare for the Spanish quiz." I frowned.

"Now who's the lazy ass, huh?" I sneered. She shot me a look.

"Physical activities are not my cup of tea for your information." She said in a matter-of-fact tone. I put on my earbuds with a smirk.

"Suit yourself,"

* * * * *

Warm sunlight hits my face and the cold wind blew gently against my hair as I made my way towards the soccer field. Birds chirped cheerily in the background as I admire the clear blue sky above, wanting to relish the peaceful atmosphere.

I settled for a short walk along the red track and field area around the soccer field, my shoes creating soft rustling noises as I'd occasionally walked on the dry leaves. Fishing my phone out of my pocket, I pressed on a random song before a familiar tune played on my earbuds. I quirked up a smile.

Perfect.

Starting off a slow jog, I grinned in delight as a soft breeze hurtled past my face, my hair whizzing through the air behind me. The chilly, bright sunlight brought out the greenness of the grassy fields as it gleamed, providing such a dazzling sight from afar. My gaze focused upwards to admire the trees swaying to the wind which almost seemed like they were dancing to Kumbaya. I began humming at a mellow tone upon hearing my favorite song playing as it energized my senses, bobbing my head up and down to the beat. After finishing five laps, my pace hiked up into a moderate speed as I began jogging a bit faster.

I wiped the sweat that rolled down to my sideburn with the sleeve of my jacket as I exhaled, practicing the control of my breathing. Due to my body not engaging in physical activities for quite a long time, my cardiovascular system and endurance isn't as solid and resilient as it used to be when I was still an active athlete back then. My eyes widened for a brief moment as another flashback triggered my memory.

I pictured a young girl who was pushed to the muddy ground, tears streaming down her cheeks that mixed with the raindrops falling down to her face. She sniffled helplessly as she shakily covered her ears, unable to cope with the negative commentary from her teammates.

'You may be the only girl in the team but that makes you more useless!'

'You're not even doing anything inside the field! You're just a coward!'

'Why don't you just do something that's more fitting to you? Like ballet or play dress up? After all, girls like girly things right?'

"Shit," I cursed under my breath upon realizing that tears had strolled down my face like an endless waterfall. Angrily, I wiped them away as I could feel my blood boiling at the bitter memory. Without realizing, my pace had sped up as I began sprinting, ignoring the stinging pain in my legs as I was too fed up on my swelling rage.

"I'm not the same girl as I was before," I muttered between soft pants as I kept sprinting at full speed, fighting the urge to howl in pain as the aching on my calves grew immensely.

'Soccer is not meant for a sissy like you!'

"Shut up.." I growled as I hissed quietly at the unbearable pain on my calves but that didn't hold me back to keep sprinting.

'Just quit the team, would you? You're not supposed to be here anyway.'

"Shut up," I snarled a bit louder, forcing my legs to run beyond my own limits. I nearly stumbled upon a twig but still continued to run around the track and field area, tears gathering from the corner of my eyes.

'Face it, you're just a weakling which is why coach always puts you on the sidelines. You're just a benchwarmer.'

"I said shut up! Goddammit!" I roared furiously from the top of my lungs, not caring if anyone heard me as I increased my pace even more, tears blurring my vision. My knuckles had turned white from clenching my fists too hard but I paid no attention to it.

"Fuck!" I cursed loudly as a throbbing pain on my left calf triggered my senses. Before I knew it, my legs had given up as I collapsed on the ground, writhing in pain. Screaming in agony, I bit on my fingernails as I squeezed my eyes shut, my body twitching at the intense sensation.

"Ash!" A loud agitated cry resounded through the quiet atmosphere as quick footsteps made its way towards me. Before I could turn my head towards the owner of the voice, a figure above me blocked the view of the sky. The only thing I could make out is a glimpse of blonde hair as I was squeezing my eyes as tightly as I could, wanting to erase the pain.

"Hey, hey, are you okay?!" A male's voice asked frantically as a hand brushed my bangs away that were framing my face. Somehow, my breathing calmed a bit from the gentle gesture. As curiosity takes over me, my eyes slowly fluttered open. Levi was staring down at me worriedly, his blue eyes searching through my face.

"Jackson...? What are you--" I wasn't abled to finish my sentence as another hiss escaped from my lips.

"I'll take you to the clinic. You can't walk in your condition." He said, and I could've sworn his voice sounded concerned and anxious. I was about to protest when I felt an arm wrapping around my back an another around my legs before I was lifted up into Levi's arms. A deep blush crept up to my cheeks as I squirmed a bit in his grip, growing embarrassed at the current situation.

"I'm fine, I can--"

"No, you're not fine at all. You're in pain right now, it wouldn't hurt if I give you a helping hand right, mute girl?" He asked, sending me small smile as his grip around me tightened a bit. I frowned as I fought off the warm sensation growing on my cheeks.

Levi began walking off the soccer field when I stopped squirming in his arms. I leaned my head against his chest, my eyes fluttering close as listening to his heartbeat made me feel relaxed. A deep chuckle reverberated from his chest and I looked up, alarmed. Levi was grinning down at me, a glint of amusement evident in his blue eyes.

"What the hell are you laughing at?" I snapped, scowling at him. He smiled as he kept walking.

"Never have I thought that I would see the feisty and headstrong Ash looking so vulnerable right now." I yelped in surprise when he suddenly blew on my bangs, catching me off guard. I shot him a glare which he returned with a smirk.

"I'm not vulnerable!" I exclaimed, struggling to cool off the hot sensation on my cheeks. I was embarrassed at this moment. Of all people, Levi had to be the one to see me in such a weakened state. That alone ruined my pride knowing he'd make fun of me or even humiliate me in front of the whole school. A million thoughts swirled in my mind as I rubbed my temples, anxiety taking over me.

I hate being viewed as weak.

"Don't worry," Levi's voice snapped me out of my train of thoughts as he smiled down at me; not the usual playboy-like smile but a genuine one. His fingertips brushed against my shoulder as if providing me reassurance.

"I think it's pretty cute that I was able to discover this new side of you. Tell me mute girl, am I the first guy to see you like this?" He asked as a teasing smile stretched across his features, looking at his deep blue eyes felt like they were staring into my soul. Being fully aware of my heart pounding loudly against my ribcage and the red tint on my cheeks, I turned away from his gaze.

"What's up with you, Jackson? You're being weird, just hurry up and take me to the clinic already." I managed to stop myself from stuttering like a shy school girl as I tug onto his shirt sleeve to quicken his pace.

"If you don't answer me, I'll take you to my room instead." His voice became husky and deep as his expression turned serious drastically. It took me a good minute to process his words as I stared at him blankly.

"Say what?! Somebody help! This guy right here turned out to be a huge pervert!" I yelled as I began squirming in his arms aggressively while punching on his chest with my knuckles. Levi grew alarmed, his eyes widened as he struggled to keep an iron grip on my body. He flinched a bit and turned his head away from my punches.

"Woah, calm down mute girl! I might drop you! I was just kidding, you know? Ack!" He winced in pain when I jabbed on the left side of his chest.

"Well, the next time you tell a joke, make sure that it wouldn't give me the wrong idea!" I exclaimed, letting out a huff in annoyance. Levi snickered.

"So you actually believed that I'd really take you to my room? I'd seriously do that if you insist, I hate to turn down a lady's offer." He said with a playful wink. I scrunched up my nose in disgust.

"Stop saying nonsense, Jackson." I snapped, giving his chest another sharp jab. He grimaced.

"Damn, that was one hell of a punch." He groaned which made me smirk proudly.

"I used to do boxing as a kid." I said apathetically before flipping on my hair. Levi tilted his head in amusement.

"That's hot," He said in a sultry tone, sending me a coquettish grin. I felt my cheeks redden at the flirtatious comment.

"Shut up," Levi chuckled.

"You haven't answered my question yet," I looked up, seeing his blue eyes twinkling with interest.

I huffed, "Yeah. Are you happy now?" I asked, crossing my arms.

His smile broadened, "Now that wasn't so hard to answer it, right?"

I scoffed, "Don't get ahead of yourself, Jackson."

* * * * *

"Looks like you have muscle cramps on your calves, Ms. Rockwell." A female school nurse said as she wrote something on her clipboard. She then took two heating pads from a drawer beside the bed and placed it under my calves. I exhaled at the warm feeling.

"That should make your tense muscles feel better after a while. I'll be giving you time to rest then." She said with a polite smile before exiting the room. Levi then appeared from behind the white curtains and sat on a stool by the bedside. He tossed me a cold bottle of water. Effortlessly, I caught it without flinching.

"Nice catch," He commented with a lopsided smile. I fought back a smile as I chugged on the water.

"That's surprisingly thoughtful of you." I admitted.

"I figured you'll need it after a long jog," My smile faltered at his words as realization hits me. The possibility of Levi seeing me go berserk at the soccer field might've been the last resort before he'd completely change his mind about even interacting with me.

"You're too easy to read, mute girl. Of course I saw you, but that doesn't mean I picture you as a different person after that incident. Like I said, I like seeing a new side of you. And I wanted to explore more of your hidden sides." He said softly with a sincere smile. Fingertips brushed against mine softly, causing a warm, tingly feeling in my stomach.

"For some reason, I hated seeing you suffering like that. You sounded so enraged, like you wanted to forget about something forbidding that occured in your life. Trust me, I know the feeling." His voice sounded faint as his fingers slowly intertwined in mine. My eyes widened.

He knows the feeling?

I wanted to ask him about it but the words got stuck in my throat. My cheeks flushed when his thumb stroked the back of my palm, the sensation causing goosebumps all over my arms.

"So please, let me help you." He pleaded, his voice laced with concern. My eyes softened.

"Jackson--" I was cut off when his head dipped forward with his eyes half-lidded, as if he were about to kiss me. When his hand slowly reached up to my face, I completely lost it. My heartbeat escalated to its maximum as I let out an earsplitting shriek, shoving him at his chest.

"Dude, what the hell?!" I yelled. Levi grunted in surprise as he fell on his butt, seemingly snapped out of his daze. The school nurse appeared from behind the curtain, looking bewildered.

"Is everything okay?" She asked. I jerked my attention to her.

"Uh, yes. Just surprised." She nodded in response before making an exit. Levi's lips twitched up into a tight smile as if he were trying to hold back a chuckle.

"So you think this is funny, huh?" I snarled coldly. He chortled and pointed a finger at me.

"Your face was totally priceless, I can't help it," He admitted between laughter, holding onto his stomach.

"Can you explain why you were trying to kiss me?" I demanded, crossing my arms. Levi ran a hand through his blonde locks, sending an amused smile.

"I didn't expect you to be straightforward. But that wasn't even my intention in the first place." His smile widened, as if he were expecting something entertaining to happen. I narrowed my eyes at him.

"What do you mean?"

"There was something in your hair so I tried to get it, but then you pushed me away." He placed a hand on his chest and mustered a fake hurt expression.

"I'm hurt, mute girl." Rolling my eyes, I threw a pillow at him which he caught effortlessly.

"Your fault for giving me the wrong idea. Again."

* * * * *

A soft knock came from behind the door. I placed my towel down to my shoulders as I rolled my eyes before unlocking the door.

"It's unlike you to leave your dorm keys here." I said as Meredith placed her shoes beside the door mat. She shot me a look.

"I was in a hurry. My sketchbook ran out of pages so I bought a new one." She protested.

"Geez, you panic easily over a drawing book."

"I was working on a project for art club, idiot." She snapped as she sat on her study desk and pulled out a brand new sketchbook.

"Oh and by the way, there's a note outside our door. I think it's from the popular soccer jock." She said nonchalantly. My mouth went agape.

"From Jackson?" Meredith nodded without glancing at me.

"Is he your boyfriend or something?" The sudden question made me want to vomit in pure disgust.

"Over my dead, body. What made you think so?"

"Might as well check out the note," She suggested.

A messy handwriting in red ink was the first thing I saw written on the white board hanging at the door.

Hey there my cute little redhead! Just wanted to say that you've been invited by me to the sophomores' welcoming party! Venue and time would be at the clubhouse at 7pm, also bring your roommate along!

Love,
Your one and only, Levi

It's no wonder Meredith thought he's my boyfriend because of the scribbled heart beside Levi's name. Sighing exasperatedly, I erased the writing using the sleeve of my jacket.

No way I'm going to a stupid party.

Just as I was about to go back inside my room, a loud yell resounded coming from the hallway.

"Ash! I've got news for you!" Mason ran up to me, a huge smile plastered on his face.

I turned to him, "Yo, what got you so pumped up?" He placed an arm around my shoulders casually.

"You see, Levi was gonna host the welcoming party this evening and I need to be there, that's why I'm planning to drag you along with me. Of course your roommate can come along if she's in the mood."

"Hang on a second, you said you need to be there, not want. Care to explain the hidden meaning?" I asked, creating air quotes with my fingers. Mason lets out a deep sigh. He looked around frantically before gesturing me to come closer.

"I think there's a girl I'm interested in," He whispered timidly, his cheeks flushing visibly. My jaw dropped in surprise before letting out a squeal.

"Oohh! Tell me, tell me!" I demanded eagerly.

"Well," He began with a sheepish smile, scratching his cheek bashfully. "She got the main heroine role of Elizabeth Schuyler after her astonishing performance at the audition." He said, letting out a dreamy sigh. I chuckled.

"Let me guess, she sang First Burn didn't she?" Mason nodded vigorously.

"Exactly! Man, if someone were to ask me who's the the fairest lady in the world, I'd say it's her." He began staring off into the distance with a deep blush on his face and I could tell he was already in La La land.

"So, who's the lucky girl?" I asked enthusiastically. Another dreamy sigh escaped from his lips.

"Zatanna Martinez," He recited her name dramatically, moving his hands around in an exaggerated manner.

"I'm gonna assume she's Spanish since the last name gives it away. I never knew you have tastes in dark haired girls, Mason." I teased, giving his shoulder a playful nudge. Mason rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly.

"I only found that out recently." He admitted with a chuckle.

"Oh, really? Well, you know what," I said, placing a hand on his shoulder as I grinned. "I'm going to the party with you and help you impress the girl of your dreams." Mason's eyes lit up.

"Seriously?! Ah, yeah! You're the best, Ash!" I smiled in response.

Guess I changed my mind after all.

* * * * *

"Do I really need to come? I was busy studying for the bio quiz." Meredith grunted in annoyance, pushing her black framed glasses up to her nose as she followed along inside the elevator.

"As expected of the genius rookie. But it wouldn't hurt to loosen up a bit, right?" Mason asked as he patted her on the shoulder. Meredith swatted his hand away.

"Shut up. I'm not talking to you, blondie." Mason flinched and moved away from her.

"Ouch. Rude much?" I sighed as I pressed on a number button before the elevator doors began closing.

"Meredith, cut it off already. You need to give yourself a break, we won't be staying there for long." I said.

She huffed, "Whatever. We should be back in the room before ten o'clock. No objections."

"Yeah, yeah. I get it so quit frowning already. You look like an old hag." This irked Meredith as she shot me a glare but didn't say anything.

A 'ding!' sound was heard as the elevator doors opened before we all made an exit. Faint upbeat music could be heard as we walked along the corridor and suddenly, anxiety began building up as we drew closer to the clubhouse. My palms grew sweaty as I fiddled with the hem of my gray sweater.

As long as I don't make a fool of myself, nothing bad will happen.

Taking a deep breath, I pushed through the glass doors. Immediately, I lifted a hand over my eyes as I was greeted with different colorful lights flickering vigorously around the room. Upbeat music blared through the large speakers in front and I had to cover my ears before it could penetrate through my eardrums. A bunch of sophomores were jammed at the dance floor like a pack of sardines as they danced wildly to the music like there was no tomorrow.

"So what now?" I asked but I had to yell through all the loud noise. Mason was looking around frantically while Meredith looked extremely uncomfortable as she twiddled with her fingers.

"Help me look for Zatanna. She must be around here somewhere. Can you guys give me an idea how I should approach her? " Mason asked. Meredith scoffed.

"Oh, please. Can't believe you have the nerve to ask us that. You can't even approach a girl on your own. Aren't guys supposed to plan their first move?" Mason stared at her in disbelief before leaning close to my ear.

"Now I get why you called her your clever yet cold-hearted roommate." He whispered, I tried to hold back a chuckle.

"What was that?" Meredith taunted, glaring at us. I waved a hand dismissively.

"It's nothing,"

As we walked aimlessly around the room, Mason was pulling on my arm while Meredith held onto the hem of my sweater. Occasionally, we'd bump into some of the students and I shrieked when some crazy guy running around the room nearly spilled his fruit punch all over my brand new sweater.

"There aren't any alcholic beverages here, right?" Meredith asked a bit anxiously.

"Nah. We're only sixteen anyway so we wouldn't have to deal with drunk, pushy guys." I replied.

"Guys! I think I see her!" Mason exclaimed as he dragged me towards the beverage counter. I squinted my eyes around the area.

"Huh? Where?" I asked. Mason pointed to a female brunette sitting by one of the stools, chugging on her fruit punch drink. She wore a black and white striped top, a black skater skirt and a pair of black knee high boots. Her wavy brown hair cascaded down her shoulders as she chatted with a waiter behind the counter politely. We stopped our pace simultaneously.

"Well, isn't she pretty. You've got good eyes, Mason." I praised.

He grinned, "Thanks. So, how do I approach her? I don't want to look like a complete idiot."

Meredith sighed, "This is bothersome."

"Come on, Meredith. The guy needs help." I pleaded.

"Sheesh, just hurry it up already."

I turned to Mason, "Okay so before I explain my plan, just remember not to look so stiff and robotic. Act natural."

He saluted, "Act natural. Got it."

"Alright try to walk casually when you're heading towards her, tap her shoulder gently, lean against the counter and give her the smile that can make any girl's heart melt. To reintroduce yourself, try to run your hand through you hair coolly for added effect. Sound good? Since you're an actor, I'm sure you can pull it off just fine." He nodded happily.

"Yeah, I think I can do that." He straightened his red flannel and fixed his blonde hair.

"Just imagined this is all part of acting," He muttered to himself. Letting out an exhale, he walked off towards Zatanna.

"Good luck, Mason!" I exclaimed.

"He better not make a fool of himself." Meredith said. I shook my head with a smile.

"He won't," We watched as Mason made his way towards Zatanna.

At first, he seemed awkward and timid as his movements were robotic when he tapped her on the shoulder. Meredith and I held back our laughter when he nearly lost his footing after attempting to lean his elbow against the counter. Mason blushed, rubbing the back of his neck with a nervous smile as Zatanna chuckled at his antics out of amusement. Zatanna then gestured him to take a seat beside her, which Mason happily complied.

"That must be a good sign!" I squealed.

"Never knew that's possible," Meredith admitted who seemed mildly impressed at the scene that occured just now. Mason glanced in our direction, sending us a thumbs up with a huge grin across his face. I smiled in return.

"Well, looks like he's in good hands now. Wanna grab a punch?" I inquired, jabbing a thumb at the beverage counter by another corner. Meredith blinked in confusion.

"Are you asking if I could punch you?"

I snickered, "I meant to ask you if you wanted to get a fruit punch with me. Unless you really wanted to punch me." I joked.

She smirked, "I'd gladly do that."

We squeezed through a large crowd at the dance floor before sitting on a stool behind the counter. A waiter greeted us with a smile.

"What can I get you, ladies?" I scanned through the menu.

"I'll get the apple fruit punch," I requested.

"Mine would be orange fruit punch," Meredith added.

After the waiter left for a while, he returned with our ordered drinks. I then took the time to survey my surroundings. The DJ booth on the stage seemed to catch my attention as I narrowed my eyes intently. Standing behind the booth is the blonde soccer jock I know too well. Black headphones hung around his neck as he bobbed his head up and down to the music with his eyes closed. He ran his fingers through his messy blonde hair as he worked on the soundboard. He was sporting a denim jacket underneath a white shirt, dark ripped jeans and a pair of sneakers. Sensing that someone was looking at him, his eyes fluttered open as his head jerked towards me. For a split second, a sly smirk contorted his features. Instantly, I turned away, faking a cough as if to pretend nothing happened. Meredith glanced at me.

"You okay?"

"Uh, yeah. Just choked on my punch." She quirked up a smile as she shook her head.

"It sounded funny when you put it that way," She admitted.

I chuckled, "Guess you're right."

"To be honest, this is my first time going to a highschool party."

"That's pretty obvious. You seem like the type who doesn't socialize that much." She hummed in response.

"You and Jack seem pretty close,"

I took a sip of my apple punch, "How do you know?"

She shrugged, "I've seen you talk to him a few times. It seems that you're the only one he's comfortable to be with compared to the other girls."

"Wait, you know that he's shy of girls too?"

"He's too easy to read. He was such a wimp when he talked to me." She said nonchalantly. I frowned.

"Geez, aren't you being a bit too harsh?"

"Just stating my opinion,"

"Well, what do you think about Jack?" I asked. Meredith grimaced.

"Eh, he's a weirdo. I wonder why you even hang out with someone like him. But then again, you're a weirdo yourself." Instead of being vexed up, I snickered in amusement.

"Oh, Meredith. You really love riling me up," She pushed her glasses up to her nose as she chuckled.

"For some reason, I tend to love annoying you too much."

"Such a sadist," I commented.

"Ash?" I glanced over my shoulder to see Jack standing behind me. I waved at him casually.

"Speak of the devil," I heard Meredith grumble under her breath and I fought back a chuckle.

"Hey, Jack. I didn't expect you to be here." Jack rolled his eyes as he sat on a stool beside me.

"Well, Levi forced me to come. He told me that I shouldn't drown myself in books too much."

"I'd probably say the same thing," I admitted. He glanced over my shoulder.

"You're here with Meredith?" He asked, a look of disbelief contorting his features. Before I could say something, Meredith beat me to it.

"Yeah. Got a problem with that?" She snapped coldly, raising an eyebrow in attempt to look intimidating. I sighed.

Oh boy.

Jack frowned at her, "More like you're the one who has a problem with me." He said matter-of-fact tone which caught me by surprise. As his friend, it's rare to see him not acting all timid towards girls.

"Oh, wow. The wimp strikes back. And I'm glad you know how to read between lines." She mocked, crossing her arms. Jack pressed his lips into a thin line as he avoided Meredith's cold glare.

"Could you guys cut it out? How would you feel if both of your friends are arguing with each other?" I snapped. Meredith clicked her tongue in annoyance while Jack simply turned his head away. I rubbed my temples in disbelief. I felt like a mom having the need to put on a leash on my children. Suddenly, I felt a weight on my shoulders.

"Hey beautiful," The all too familiar sultry voice sent shivers down my spine as his breath tickled my ear. Instinctively, I shrieked and shoved him by the shoulders. I heard a chuckle behind me when I tried to scratch off the tingling sensation on my ear.

"I never get tired of your priceless reactions, mute girl." I groaned. That guy really knows how to get on my nerves.

"Levi, quit flustering the poor girl." Jack scolded. The said guy shrugged his shoulders casually.

"No promises on that. I'm enjoying doing this to her way too much. It's quite entertaining, honestly." He flashed me a wink when we made eye contact and I looked away almost immediately, cursing mentally to myself. Levi turned her attention to Meredith who was sipping on her drink quietly, disinterested in the whole conversation.

"Ah, you must be the genius rookie. I have to say you look very lovely tonight." He said, flashing her a Cheshire grin.

And here goes one of his flirtatious attempts.

Meredith seemed unfazed as she turned to him with a stoic expression.

"I hate it when people view me as a person of high-class or something so I'd prefer it if you don't address me as the genius rookie." She said apathetically. Levi raised an eyebrow in amusement.

"Quite straightforward, I see. I heard from Jack that you two got invited to a Math competition in France. Gotta say you guys have a big chance of winning considering your outstanding academic performances." He said proudly.

"Our only problem is teamwork," Jack suddenly butted in the conversation. Meredith shot him a look.

"For your information, I prefer working alone. Teamwork isn't in my vocabulary." She argued.

"Whether we like working together or not, we still have to do it. We don't make the choices, Meredith." Jack tried to reason out.

She finished her fruit punch in one big sip, "Then I guess you just have to back out." Jack stared at her as if she'd grown two heads.

"Are you crazy?! We'll be disqualified!" He exclaimed. Levi was glancing back and forth between Jack and Meredith in amusement. His eyes landed on mine, his expression suggested something mischievous. I couldn't hold back a grin as I knew exactly what he's thinking. I cleared my throat and stood up before grabbing onto Meredith's arm. She looked up at me, surprised at my abruptness.

"Ash, what are you doing?" She asked. Levi also did the same as he tugged on the sleeve of Jack's black hoodie.

"Dude, what the heck?" He exclaimed.

"You guys should be thankful, we're just trying to help you out." Levi said with a wink.

"Since when exactly did you two began siding with each other?!" Jack asked in disbelief.

Levi and I grinned to each other like total misfits, "Just now," We replied in unison.

"For you guys to get along, how about getting it on at the dance floor? The night is still young after all." I suggested with a sly smirk.

Meredith's face paled, "No way I'm dancing with a wimp,"

Jack glared at her, "I'm not a wimp,"

She rolled her eyes, "Sure you aren't."

"If you guys don't head there right now, I'll spread to the whole school that you guys are a couple!" Levi teased. I erupted into fits of laughter as I held onto my stomach.

"What?!" Meredith yelled in shock.

"There's no way you'd do that," Jack said, shaking his head.

Levi smirked, "Oh, really? I guess you're asking for it then." He turned to the whole crowd much to Meredith and Jack's horror.

"Hey guys! Did you know that Jack Ross and Meredith Gabehart are a coup--mmphh!" I doubled over into laughter as Jack slammed a hand over Levi's mouth, effectively shutting him up.

"Okay, okay! We get it already! Come on, Meredith!" He exclaimed, grabbing a hold of Meredith's arm before dragging her to the dance floor. Levi and I snickered as we witnessed Jack's beet red ears and Meredith's awkward behavior as she kept staring at the ground.

"Oh man, that was hilarious." Levi said, wiping the tears from the corner of his eyes.

"Probably the funniest thing I've ever seen," I added with a chuckle. He gave me a pat on the shoulder.

"Who knew we'd make a great team? We look like partners in crime right now."

I smirked, "You bet'cha." He smiled down at me genuinely and for a second, I felt my heart jump out of my chest at his deep gaze. His hand brushed against mine before our fingers were suddenly intertwined together. I gulped at the warm sensation.

"While we're at it, why don't we head to the dance floor as well?" He suggested, sending me one of his signature Cheshire grins. I immediately shook my head.

"No way I'd dance with you," I objected. He chuckled, keeping a firm grip on my hand.

"Unless you want the whole school to know that we're a couple too," My cheeks flushed as I looked away from his gaze, worried that I might drown into his ocean blue eyes.

"F-Fine. Just one dance," His smile broadened.

"Now, that's the answer I'm expecting." Before I knew it, I was pulled along to the dance floor.

Party Rock!
Yeah
Wooo!
Let's go!

Party Rock Anthem began blaring through the speakers as Levi and I squeezed through a huge crowd of sophomores.

"Woohoo!" Levi whooped loudly as he began jumping up and down, his other hand still holding onto mine. I giggled at his antics. His eyes glimmered as he grinned at me.

"Dance with me, Ash!" His free hand grabbed onto mine, swinging my arms up and down to encourage me to dance with him. I smiled and rolled my eyes playfully, deciding to jump along with him.

Party rock is in the house tonight
Everybody just have a good time (yeah)
And we gon' make you lose your mind (woo)
Everybody just have a good time (clap)
Party rock is in the house tonight (oh)
Everybody just have a good time (I can feel it baby)
And we gon' make you lose your mind (yeah)
We just wanna see you
Shake that!

Levi bobbed his head up and down to the beat and swayed from side to side like a drunk man while I bounced on my heels, screaming out the lyrics of the song.

"Yeah, baby!" He exclaimed, giving me finger guns with a wink. I chuckled at his silliness.

"Idiot," I muttered with a smile which Levi returned genuinely.

In the club, party rock
Looking for your girl? She on my jock
Non stop when we in the spot
Booty moving weight like she on the block
Where the drank? I gots to know
Tight jeans, tattoo, 'cause I'm rock and roll
Half-black, half-white, domino
Gainin' money, Oprah, dough
Yo!! I'm running through these hoes like Drano
I got that devilish flow rock and roll no halo, we party rock!
Yeah, that's the crew that I'm repping
On the rise to the top, no lead in our zeppelin, hey

Levi and I began rapping to each other the verse of the song enthusiastically as if we were in a real rap battle. I'd snicker whenever Levi sends me one of his playful winks and do a body wave dance move. At this point, I completely forgot about hating him. I was in a bliss as we continued to dance to the song like there was no tomorrow. Levi poked my nose, a chuckle escaping from his lips.

"You're cute when you smile." He said sincerely. I tried to laugh off the blush creeping up to my cheeks.

"Quit messing around with me, Jackson." He smiled softly, his blue eyes seemed like they held a deep emotion in them.

"I'm not, it's the truth, mute girl."

At this moment, I didn't regret going to the party.

ʕ•ﻌ•ʔʕ•ﻌ•ʔʕ•ﻌ•ʔʕ•ﻌ•ʔʕ•ﻌ•ʔʕ•ﻌ•ʔʕ•ﻌ•ʔ

A/N: Phew I think that was the longest chapter I've ever done and thank god I finally finished it! Hope you enjoyed the MereJack and LevAsh moments!

Word count: 6321