Alaina was happier now, school had become better. There was less bullying, name-calling, whisperings and pointing as she walked along the corridor. The bullying string had broken. It was gone. She was not pushed around anymore, not seen as a personal punching bag. All thanks to Wyatt. He became her boyfriend but not boyfriend. Although he would act protective, take her out, put his arm around her waist, they weren't quite official.

Unfortunately, Alaina became so lost in her real life fantasy, she failed to see the small details. She never noticed that Wyatt would only act 'lovey dovey' when they were in public. How he would be indifferent when it was only the two of them. Or that he would always be looking out for a certain red haired girl, who would be lurking on the sidelines.

Alaina only heard the rumours and knew the way Wyatt would ignore them. She saw he wouldn't leave her because of what people said. She only saw his strengths, blind to his weaknesses. She was given all the clues, but she failed to put them together.

Alaina walked hand in hand with Wyatt, shying from the stares and whispers. Among the many students whispering, there was one girl glaring. Her red hair cascaded over her shoulder, blue eyes piercing through Wyatt. She didn't once look at Alaina, her attention wholly focused on Wyatt. He replied with a smug smile of his own. Alaina skipped happily, oblivious to the exchange that took place mere moments ago.

Later that day, during their date at a small cafe, Alaina noticed the girl sitting alone. She knew it was never nice to sit alone, so she invited her over to their table unaware of the tension that existed between the girl and Wyatt. All three sat at the table awkwardly, the order for burgers and fries placed long ago.

"So what's your name?" Alaina started the conversation, she had started talking more when she was with Wyatt. They were holding hands by now.

"Rebecca... your's?" She replied albeit a little apprehensive.

"Alaina" the conversation continued Wyatt not uttering a word. Eventually the fateful question came in the conversation

"Are you guys dating?"

"No! What?" Wyatt exclaimed, immediately jumping away from their clasped hands. Rebecca eyebrows rose, expressing her confusion.

"Wyatt could I talk to you for a minute?" She asked.

"Uh sure..." he said getting up. They stood and conversed in the corner meanwhile a million thoughts swirled in Alaina's head.

But, if he didn't care about me, he wouldn't have put this much effort right?

That means he was just surprised?

Maybe she's telling him to ask me out right now?

Because, surely, he actually cares?

Or will he turn out like everyone else in my life?

A few moments later they came back. He held Alaina's hand again, leading her to believe nothing was wrong. She was so worried about it that she didn't notice the subtle wink Rebecca sent Wyatt.

Alaina's heartstring curled around her a bit tighter. Whether it pulled back or towards the cliff, it wasn't going to let go.