We all get out of Marcus' car and walk into school. Aria goes to her locker after she thanks Marcus for the ride. She shoots me a slight smile before she leaves though.

I guess we're okay now.

I start to head for my locker as I see from the corner of my eye that Marcus is following me. I put in my combination and grab my books. He's still there.

"Is there something you want?" I say slamming my locker shut and then lock it. "I'm just...looking at you." He says. He tucks a piece of my hair that has fallen from behind my ear, puts it behind it once again.

"Well here I am." I say clutching my books. He looks at me longingly. "Here you are." He says and bites his lip. He is so cute. I think to myself.

He clears his throat and stands up straighter. "My little cousin is having this birthday party on Friday." He says. "My mom made me help out, with activities, and stuff and I don't think I can really do it alone." He looks into my eyes. "Will you help me out Des?" he says. 

I laugh. "I don't know.........let me think about it." I say even though I'm free on Friday. "Alright, I'll see you!" He says, and walks off.

I think to myself.

Now, would Marcus be doing all this if I had still looked the same as the years prior?

I don't know that answer, and I don't really think I want to.

Classes go by, mindless, unnecessary classes, and finally the day is over. The bell rings and I get up out of my seat.

I walk to my locker to see another note taped t my locker. This one, is a yellow paper that says To Des on it.

I take it off my locker and open it.

Hey, it's Derrick. I'm sorry for acting like such a douche, can we talk?

Just then, Derrick comes around the corner with his hands in his pockets.

"Well can we?" He says and smiles at me. "Of course," I say. He didn't have to write me a note. I've known Derrick my whole life. Why is all of a sudden he's so shy to talk to me.

Derrick walks over and leans against a locker.

His arms are so muscular toned that I've never noticed before perfectly fit his shirt. His dark, black hair is swept to one side of his head, and his dimples increase every time he smiles at me. He takes a deep breath.

"Look, Des I know I've been acting different, and stand offish, but that's just because....." He trails off barely making eye contact with me. "I have a confession." He says.

He takes one......last deep breath.

Is this it? Is he finally going to tell me he likes me?

Derrick looks into my eyes.

"I like Aria."