A/n: Updating again because 3 was so short. -AV

Flashback
Mitch sat in Ms. Marez's English class, silently reading ahead in the novel as the teacher assigned partners for the upcoming project. Since there was an odd number of students, Mitch prayed that he would be the odd man out and get to work alone. He hated group projects. However, this hope was shattered when a tall blonde with lapis eyes walked in.

Mitch's initial though was "God, he's gorgeous," which was quickly followed by "no way he doesn't have a girlfriend," and finished with "dammit Mitch, stop staring!" Mitch could hear the teacher telling "Mr. Hoying" she had been expecting him. She continued, "you will be with Mr. Grassi for our up coming project. Mitch, help Scott get settled please?"

Mitch groaned internally at having to help the most beautiful guy he'd ever laid eyes on but went to work explaining their assignment.

Looking back Mitch can't help but wonder if Ms. Marez had paired them together purposefully. She has known Mitch for a while and knew of his self-destructive behavior. She had also read over Scott's troubling file. Somehow it seemed she knew the pair could save each other and they had. To this day she is still one of their favorite teachers.

When the bell finally rang, they turned in their quizzes before leaving the classroom. As soon as they were in the hall, Scott turned to Mitch and apologized.
"I'm sorry baby, I didn't mean to get all defensive."
"It's okay, I shouldn't have said anything" Mitch replied.
"But you're right, I should focus on school more. Especially now that I have someone to love and protect."
Mitch pressed a quick kiss to Scott's lips before Scott grabbed his hand and they made their way to their next class.