Alexa's P-O-V

2 days after the Valentines Concert

I don't know what was going on within me. All of a sudden I was feeling so liberated...like I wasn't that outcasted tomboy left aside by her family anymore..or even if I was, I felt I wasn't lonely anymore.

Really! Never in my life I thought I would one day meet someone whose story would be so similar to mine! And that too someone I so hated on our first meet.

Wait a second! I still hate him!

Yep! That's right! I hate him.

'Who?' Bayley's voice made me aware that I just spoke aloud my thoughts.

Shit! I just hope I didn't say much!

'Huh?'

'You said you hate him? Who's that him now?' she said scooping into carrot soup.

'Nobody in particular..' I said dodging the topic with a shrug.

Bayley gave me a look of disbelief.

'Something is bothering you, isn't it?' she asked raising an eyebrow.

'What? Bothering! No.. No way! You know very well nothing can bother the spitfire..don't you?' I scoffed reminding her of the nickname she gave me.

Bayley' smiled wide. 'I know. But, why is my spitfire getting her soup cold?' She asked.

I looked down at the soup and rolled my eyes.

'...because I'm literally fed up with taking this carrot soup in the dinner for last two weeks.' I said rolling my eyes. This time I really meant it.

I don't know what's wrong with Bayley! This girl was getting all into healthy food these days and this was actually pissing me off. Bayley did tell me that I could take anything I like but.... I just can't do it.

Since Bayley started detaching herself from her parents, she started relying on me even more. We were no more just best friends. We are like a family. So, I can't just watch her struggle with the soup yet swallowing it with pride while continuing to eat my pizza. So, there I was...with my own carrot soup as well.

Bayley pouted. 'Come on Alexa! You know that I'm trying to lead a healthy life, right? You know the grumposaurus says if we take heavy food filled with curbs before going to sleep, there's 60% chance...'

'..of getting a cardiac arrest.. you've told that to me like hundred times.. ' I said rolling my eyes.

'But look Bayley, our human life is really unpredictable. Who knows what'll happen to us and when. So, as long as we are alive, we should try to be happy and do everything our heart desires and not impose something that would be a burden to our whole system.' I explained my views.

Bayley seemed to be thinking a little about it. 'You seem right but...the grumposaurus also says if we consume food that'd rise the sugar level in our blood, there's a high possibility that...'

'Got it..' I sighed.

'What?' Bayley asked confused.

'...that if it continues for few more days, I'll end up robbing off the dorm fridge at 1 in the morning and you'd end straight up in a hospital bed..' I said after calculating a lot.

Bayley's mouth opened in surprise and annoyance. 'That's not true.' she said trying to focus on her soup.

'I hope so..' I said taking a spoon of soup.

******

I readjusted my back on my shoulder as I looked at the notice board. The tests are coming and there's no way, I'm going to pass. Since starting to rehearse for the concert, I totally detached myself from the books and it never felt I was doing something wrong. But, now I got a reality check.

I was going to flunk this test and nothing is going to help.

'Gosh! Just few more days!' Bayley exclaimed looking at the exam schedule.

Ugh! I hate her sometimes! Does she really needs to panic even after absorbing hundred books in her system.

I started walking in frustration towards the music room.

'Lexi!' Bayley called from behind but I increased my pace and ran off her eyes.

The music room was empty. I sighed getting inside and took the guitar in my hand.

I sat on the stool at the front of the class and played a tune unminfully. That'll relax me a little.

But, then what? What if I really flunk? I'd be kicked out of the Shield and my life will never be a same again. I won't find the environment that I finally felt comfortable in. There won't be Bayley, there won't be James and Dango, there won't be Dr. Lynch and Dr. Ambrose, there won't be Seth....either..

My heart jumped as a weird thought came into my mind. Seth is definitely gonna drop me from the Kingslayers if I drop from the Shield! I mean, I would have no place to stay and I probably would move to a new place...where nobody is gonna search for me and I'm going to lose everything again..

Fuck! That's the reason I hate to get attached to people..

I didn't realize when the pitch and tune of my strings went rhythmically fast and I was looking straight to the wall in front of me without even knowing what to think.

'Jeez! Easy pal..!' an unexpected voice suddenly broke my train of thoughts and I realized it was Seth standing in front of me with a look of both surprise and amusement.

When did he come?

My fingers stopped on the tracks and I realized Seth was looking down at my hands on the strings. I followed his gaze and looked down to see the visible red marks on my fingers.

'What's that? You're acting like something drove you crazy!' Seth said with a frown.

I cleared my voice and placed the guitar off my lap.

'No. Nothing..it's just that I was feeling bored.' I lied standing up.

'And you want me to believe that?' Seth asked crossing his arms on his chest. 'Alexa, I'm a musician too and the way you were playing, I bet something is bothering you badly.' he said looking straight at me.

As he looked I don't know why I started feeling a little vulnerable. Like, I could finally accept that I was indeed vulnerable.

'I... I don't think I'm gonna pass the test.' I finally said looking away from his eyes.

Seth scoffed. 'What? So, that was all bothering you?' he asked like a no big deal and started chuckling.

I felt annoyed. 'Of course, you won't understand because you have already passed this stage, Prof..' I said rolling my eyes and attempting to walk away.

'Hey wait!' Seth stopped me with his laughter-laced voice. 'If I'm not wrong, you still have around 12 days I'm your hand and considering that almost everyone is still in the Valentines hangover, I don't think the paper is going to be that hard..' he shrugged.

'... That's the point. Hard or easy. I'm gonna flunk anyway and when I do.. ' I stopped myself to think more.

'And when you do..?' Seth questioned raising his eyebrow.

'Nothing.' I said walking away.

****

Two days later

'Wake up Lexi... We're getting late..! You have a class with Dr. Lynch remember..' Bayley kept poking me just like she's been doing for past 30 minutes.

'Just one more minute Bay.. You know I slept really late last night..' I moaned not opening my eyes.

'..and I slept at least two hours after you did and had no problem waking up on time..' she said continuing to nudge me.

'That's why you're the best Bayley... Now let me sleep for five more minutes..' I said grabbing my pillow harder.

'This girl!' Bayley said helplessly. 'Fine, I'm leaving and I kept your breakfast on the table.' she said.

'Bye..' I said peacefully. But, my peace was short-lived as less than two minutes later.. My phone started ringing.

Ugh! This Bayley..!

I ignored it for few times but then o decided to shut the thing up.

I received it with closed eyes.

Alexa: Hello (raspy voice)

          : Woah! Did I disturb a peaceful                    9 am sleep? (chuckles)

9 am..!! Well, that laugh seems familiar.

Alexa: (opening eyes abruptly) Seth! You..?

Seth: Yeah.. Let me guess you thought I was Bayley..!

Alexa: (surprised) Well yeah..uh..

Seth: Omg! (laughs) You really thought I was Bayley!! ... Let me guess more, poor Bayley must've left alone after getting tired of poking you out of your sleep for an hour... (chuckles)

Alexa: (left open mouthed) uh.. No..(pretending to be annoyed) Now, tell me why did you call and what's the matter?

Seth: Easy.. I just wanted to remind you that we have our next show in two months for which I guess we need to start prepare soon..

Alexa: Show! (excited) You mean I'll still be..

Seth: What?

Alexa: No nothing. Tell me about the show.

Seth: I will. Let's all meet up at the studio at four. We'll discuss things there.

Alexa: Yeah sure.

Seth: See you. Bye.

Disconnected

So, I'm still there after two months..slightly relaxed but... Well, there's still time. I looked at my wrist watch on the bed stand. Let's get ready for Dr. Lynch's class.

****

'I understand Professor...and I know very well that..' I tried hard to find out  an explanation as I avoided the gaze of Dr. Lynch.

'You should understand Alexa. The test is knocking at the door. There's very less time!' Dr. Lynch said with a look of distress. 'Unfortunately I could only remember in few of my classes and about your psychiatry class, your attendance is even worse. Look Alexa, you know I really like you and I want you to do good but the way you're ignoring your classes..I.. I'm really worried about you.' she said.

That was shameful to hear this from her. I know Dr. Lynch really likes me and allowed me to adjust my classes with the practice sessions for the kingslayers but I guess I really let her down.

After the class ended today, she personally asked me to stay back and reminded me how I skipped the classes and even the practical sessions.

I looked down. 'I'm sorry Professor. I really didn't want to break your faith.' I said with guilt.

Dr. Lynch looked at me sympathetically and placed a soft hand on my shoulder and sighed.

'You haven't yet Alexa. I still believe you can do it. Just study hard, okay. I know you've engrossed a little too much of your time with the band but you mustn't forget, this is why you're here for. You have to be a doctor too.' she reminded me something I almost forgot.

I looked up at her and nodded. 'I'll try.' I said.

Dr. Lynch smiled. 'I know you will and after the tests are over, I'll teach you and Bayley a very nice recipe.' she said.

I couldn't help but smile. Dr. Lynch did know how to cheer people up. I smiled too.

'That'll be awesome!' I said.

Dr. Lynch smiled patting my shoulder one last time. 'Good luck.' she wished before leaving the class.

***

I drank the last few gulps of the orange juice fast and wiped my lips with my fingers. 'There. I'm done. I got to start for the rehearsal now. It's almost four.' I said rushing up from the seat.

'What? You're kidding me!' Bayley said wide-eyed.

'The rehearsals started already! You just ended the show!' Dango said not believing it either.

'Actually, Se... I mean Dr. Rollins called me this morning and he told me about the upcoming shows. So, I guess it's better to start soon.' I said with a tight lipped smile and attempted to leave.

'Wait!' I heard Bayley's voice and the pulling off her chair, meaning she stood up too.

What now!

I looked at her with a frown.

'I guess you know that our tests are knocking at the door and you have classes and studies to do too.' Bayley said in a pretty serious tone.

Ugh! Her and her obsession with studies!

'Yeah. I'll definitely do that too.' I said. 'I'll try to come back before eight.' I said looking at my wrist watch.

Bayley frowned. 'So, you'll try to come  back before eight!' she asked crossing her arms on her chest. 'Alexa, do you even realize how much you're reluctant to the course! And I'm telling you'll find yourself crawling crazy when you know you've lost your precious time.' she said in an annoyed voice.

Little did she know I almost crawled crazy on the bed for last two days imagining the end of my music career and the end of my connections with the Kingslayers.

'I think you should listen to Bayley, Alexa. She's saying that because she's really worried about you.' James spoke now.

I scoffed walking closer to Bayley. 'Don't worry Bay.. I'll study after coming back. I promise..' I said pinching her cheeks while she continued to give me a look of annoyance.

'Now bye. I'll see you all later.' I said turning to leave.

'Bye Alexa!' I heard James and Dango say but not Bayley.

*****

'...and she walked away
Never looking at my red eyes...' He pulled the strings and I burst into laughter.

'Leave it Seth. You're still missing the thing with this song. May be they're all right. You have to get your heart broken and get some red eyes to put life into this song.' I chuckled.

Seth threw me a death glare before keeping off his guitar.

'Would you keep your mouth shut.' he said crossly. 'It's just that I don't practice it often. But, the day I do it, you all are gonna see why I call this my masterpiece.' he said.

I shrugged. 'Shall be waiting.'

'We all shall be waiting so eagerly Seth.' Bobby said chuckling from near.

Adam and Roddie too burst into laughter and I joined them too.

'Bunch of assholes..' Seth muttered rolling his eyes before walking off.

To be honest, we actually tease Seth a lot about this song. Personally, I feel he's 80% into the thing but it's like something is still missing.. It's much like me with the first kiss song.. The reminder of the song itself ran a sudden shiver around my spine.

That moment... When I told him I never had my first kiss and he..

'Alexa..can you help me adjusting the drums..' Joey's voice brought me back to the earth and I realized I just seemed to open my eyes. I realized I've been standing idle for quite some time now getting engrossed in silly memories.

Ugh! Why am I even thinking this? A person who's dating Summer definitely doesn't have anything to do with heart. Let alone a heart break.

I shrugged off the weird thoughts. 'Coming..' I responded walking to Joey.

****

The rehearsal was over. I prepared some simple pancakes for the boys which all almost all of them said was delicious... I felt quite happy. But, amidst all the good times, this guy had to just take the pancake with a sore face and an indifferent soft 'thank you' and walk away with his plate to the other hall.

Of course, you can never expect any good from Dr. Seth freakin Rollins.

I hate him.

After half an hour and lots of fun while teasing Adam about his fear to meet Britt's big brother, we decided to call it a day. Seth would seldom join us and share a little laugh and would spend most of his time either fixiuhis guitar chords or talking to people on phone.

Such a weirdo!

Me, Joey and Roddie switched off all the lights and closed all the instruments while the others were locking up lockers, shelves, doors and windows as per the leaving customs.

'Okay guys! We're meeting day after tomorrow then.' Joey said as we all picked our respective bags. I switched on my phone and damn! 12 missed calls from Bayley!

There was a message that read:

Bayley: Do one thing. Stay with your band members from now on. I don't care.

Fuck!

But, even after knowing how mad Bayley was, I smiled. The thing is I never had someone who'd be concerned about me returning this way. I still remember my days in school picnic. The parents of other students would call the teachers and other authorial figures to know when their kids were coming back. But, I never had to worry about that. Few people said I was lucky that I could stay up late and have as much fun as I want. My parents were so good, they said.

But, with time I knew how unlucky I was.. But, with Bayley coming in my life, I felt like having a family I never had despite having my parents.

'Alexa.. I'm going to pick Britt a couple of kilometers from the Shield. You can come with me.' Adam offered.

I forced a smile looking around searching for no one in particular. 'Thank you but I guess I'm gonna take a cab..'

'Ugh! This girl won't get rid of her formal attitude even now. Adam's going that way too.' Bobby said as we walked out to the parking.

Well, I understand that but...

'Alexa what are you looking for? Listen, I won't have any problem. It'll be on my way!' Adam said breaking my gazing off. 'And now that Seth has left too, we can't just ignore our responsibilities for you.' he added.

Wait!

'He left!' I asked surprised. Oh! So, that's the reason he isn't around.

'Yeah. Got a date with Summer, I guess..' Jamie chuckled.

I held my face straight calming the clench in my jawline.

'Oh! Uh.. If you insist.. Let's go Adam..' I said not dragging things further.

'Now, that's like a good girl!' Adam smiled opening the car door for me.

****

3 hours later

'Can we please do this in the morning Bay..!' I said somehow forcing my eyes to stay open.

'...and that causes the lungs to.. No way!' Bayley said looking up from the book momentarily. 'It's just 2..relax! And you have a lot to learn.' she said.

'...but, what if nothing gets into my head at this time. Your entire effort is going to be in vain..' I said showing sympathy for her.

I really felt that bad for her. I mean, she seemed so serious and enthusiastic and she was really trying hard to get me passed.

Don't get me wrong, I want that too but I just...don't know. Besides, my mood isn't that good tonight anyway.

'You don't have to worry about that. Just keep your ears open.' she said like a strict teacher. 'No more talking. Just focus if you want to pass.'

'Oops.. I'm scared.' I joked relaxing my back. 'Guess the company of Dr. Reigns is really influencing you. Lady grumposaurus..' I chuckled.

'What?' Bayley looked at me annoyed. 'You really think this exam is some joke. Lexi, when will you understand, the majority of the board of directors of the Shield already hates you and if you somehow don't manage to get the grades...they will..' her voice softened and the book in her hand closed. 'I don't want you to fail, Alexa. I.. I can't live without you.' a drop of tear rolled down her eyes.

Shit!

'Bayley.. Relax!' I said getting concerned about her now. 'I'm not gonna fail, okay...don't cry..' I said and she started wailing loudly.

'You're all I have, Alexa. If you fail, you're going to be expelled for sure.' she said within her tears. '... And since the thought has struck her mind, I.. I can't eat and think properly..' she sobbed.

Oh dear! She's thinking about it even more than me!

'Hey!..' I took my chair near her and cupped her face. 'Why are you thinking like that Bayley?' I asked wiping her tears.

'Why shouldn't I? Ever since I came to the city, it's you and only you who've nurtured me like a mother...protected me like a family and now that I have none, I can't even think of losing you. If you think, I'm selfish. Yes, I'm selfish. I.. I can't live without you Alexa.. ' she wailed again.

My head dropped on the table momentarily before springing up again. What do I do with this girl?

'Ugh! Bayley.. Come on girl! You have to be strong. I know you you want me to pass and see me like a family. But, don't cry like this. This only shows your weakness.' I counseled her.

Bayley sniffed wiping her eyes. 'Here..' I passed her the bottle of water.

'Th.. Thank you..' she said wiping rest of the tears off her face with the back of her hand. She started drinking the water fast.

How can you not love her? I scoffed.

'Now come on.. Let's go to bed. We'll study hard from tomorrow, I promise.' I said aiding her to get up from the chair.

'But..'

'No but Bayley... You'll fall sick this way. In fact, we both will. Now, stop thinking trash and try getting some nice sleep.' I said walking her to her bed.

Bayley nodded. 'Promise?' she asked holding her pinky for me.

What the.. I chuckled. 'Promise..' I said doing the stuff and finally making her smile.

I plopped into my own bed. 'Now, we'll have to go early tomorrow. I may miss the classes day after tomorrow again. The practice and all you know..' I sighed attempting to switch off the lights.

'Wait! You're still doing the rehearsals!' Bayley sat straight up with wide eyes. 'Alexa, are you even thinking what I told you earlier. They are gonna expel you if..'

'Ugh! Come on! Dr. Rollins said we are to start quick for our next show.'

'And you agreed amidst your test schedule, right?' Bayley said sarcastically.

'Bay.. Seth is the captain of our band. I.. I can't say no to him and I'm sure he will not slot the rehearsals when the tests get near.. Relax!' I tried to explain.

'So, you're listening to Dr. Rollins now, Alexa! You believe whatever he says but don't even consider what I do! What's wrong with you? Now, I feeling, if you have to choose between me and Dr. Rollins you're definitely going to choose him over me.' Bayley said impatiently.

What..? My eyes widened by the horizon of her thinking.

'You.. You love Dr. Rollins more than me..' she wailed again.

I love who..?

I clutched on the sheets with the agitating emotions taking over me. 'Stop it Bayley!' I almost scolded her making her stop wailing immediately. 'Do you even know what you're talking about? This guy is happy with his girlfriend and probably they're happy a great sex somewhere around. He doesn't care about me and I don't care about him and here you are telling that I l..'

Bayley cut me off with another confused expression. 'But, Alexa I  only told you that you might choose him over me since you're spending..'

'Whatever you might have meant, just don't go there ever, okay.' I warned. 'Now be a good girl and go to sleep.' I said getting pretty annoyed.

Bayley just nodded and wiped her eyes again. 'Good night..' she said softly before rolling to sleep.

I turned off the lights and laid myself down closing my eyes.

What was Bayley indicating anyway? Did I overthink and overreact by any means?

Ugh! Forget it..

*****

The next day

'Sorry Miss Bliss, we can't accept your test forms unless you get an undertaking from your guardians or a subject teacher regarding your poor attendance.' the lady in the office who hates my guts said.

'Wait! It's me who missed the classes and I already said that I'm going to give my own undertaking. Why you're involving other people in it?' I asked.

The lady sighed in offense. 'May be because we can't rely on your undisciplined ways anymore. It's okay. Just mail your family the form. They can just sign and send it in our website ID.' she said.

Family! Are they kidding me?

'How many times do I tell you I have no family!' I said getting really annoyed.

'And how many times do you tell you that there are other students standing on the queue. If you have problems getting that from your family, just ask your teachers if they're ready to undertake.' she said.

No way am I asking them for this. Dr. Lynch is already mad on me and I just don't want to bother her and let her down.

'Listen lady.. I won't be moving an inch unless you accept my form..' I stated bitterly much to the surprise of the lady.

'Hey! We're getting late! Please hurry up or move..' the other students said.

'Alexa, let me speak..' Bayley said tapping my back.

'Miss Lockhart! Will it be fine if I sign it as her guardian?' she asked politely peeping across me towards the lady.

'You're kidding me!' I objected before the lady could with her quirks brows.

'No. I mean. I.. I could say she's my sister..!' Bayley said looking at me and the lady simultaneously.

Well that's not actually a bad idea..

'Miss Martinez, being your well wisher, I won't suggest you to do that. You are a good student with good attendance and performance record. And by chance, your friend messes up and tends to break more rules, you would stand liable to her acts and that might interfere in your career too.' the lady Lockhart said every time sparing me bitter looks to which I rolled my eyes.

But, her last words indeed bothered me. I know how passionate Bayley is about being a doctor, I don't want her career to be distracted because of me..

Bayley now said louder. 'Not a problem. I know Alexa's never gonna..'

'Stop it Bay.. If she's saying they can't let me sit in the tests, be it. At least, I could say I was screwed by the authority..' I said gritting my teeth sparing a glance at the lady. 'I'm not submitting..' I said before walking off the line.

'What! Alexa, you're kidding me! Alexa...listen..' Bayley called but I didn't look back.

'Hurry up Bayley, we're standing too..' I heard someone from the queue say. I didn't hear more and you walked away.

That was it. My medical career was over. There's no way I'm going to ask my parents for the undertaking. And the question of the teachers doesn't even arise. Most of them hate me anyway.

As I walked and walked, I didn't realize when I heard somebody call my name.

'Miss Bliss..' I looked back and saw Dr. Orton.

Ugh! I don't know why I hate this guy for no reason.

'Yes Professor..' I said indifferently.

'Uh... I've been calling you for some time now. You're fine?' he asked raising his eyebrow.

'I'm good.' I said confidently. I never show my weakness to people I hate. 'Why were you calling me, Professor?' I asked.

'Oh..' Dr. Orton smiled looking down. 'Actually, I needed to tell you that you and your friend Bayley are invited to our place on 21st of this month, a day after your tests are over.' he said.

Our place?

I was getting confused. We weren't that close with Dr. Orton that he'd invite us to his place. 'Sorry, but I couldn't get you Professor. Why and where..?'

'Oh.. Actually I.. I mean me and Becky live in Belinda Apartments, few kilometers from Oreo Park. B-block, N-40. And on that day, we'll be celebrating our three month anniversary. So, I was thinking..' Dr. Orton smiled but my eyes widened.

'Dr. Lynch stays there?' I asked surprised.

'Yes. She kinda moved in with me last week. So..' he said.

No way! Why would she leave Dr. Ambrose and move in with this clown?

'Okay. I can't promise but we'll try.' I said not wanting to do anything with it.

'Please do. Becky loves you two. She'll be so happy to see you all.' he said. '..and you all can take the cooking classes too..'

What? I can't believe Dr. Lynch shared our cooking class thing with this asshole. There's no way we're going to go to his house.

I fake smiled.

'Who's taking the cooking classes?' a familiar voice emerged from behind me and soon I felt a soft touch on my lower back.

'Hey Seth!' Dr. Orton smiled weirdly upon watching Seth. 'Going good?' he asked with mischief in his voice.

'Good enough.' Seth said without any expression. 'But it seems your living the best part of your life, eh? Dr. Rollins said which I felt was quite sarcastic.

'Yes, life has never been better for me. Becky is everything I ever wanted and..'

'Yeah yeah.. Congratulations..' Seth said as if he wasn't too pleased either. 'Anyway, what were you talking to her?' Seth said looking at me momentarily.

Dr. Orton smirked. 'Just an invitation for 21st. Nothing to worry for you..' he smirked and winked secretly at Seth.

What's going on here?

I felt Seth move his hand off me. I can't actually believe I actually let him touch me for that long!

'So, you've told her and she's listened?' Seth said looking between me and Dr. Orton.

'Yeah.. I told her..'

'I heard him..'

Both of us said at the same time.

'Hm.. I guess you can go now Orton. She's heard it.' Seth said crossing his arms on his chest and if I'm not wrong, it seemed he wasn't being so fond of Dr. Orton too at this moment.

Dr. Orton frowned. 'Okay.. Fine.. All yours..' he said raising his hands up in surrender with a slight smile and walked away.

All yours..

I was damn confused and I gave the same look to Seth. I guess he understood it too.

'.. He's a boring dude to talk. And I feel you aren't too fond of him either.' he said with a shrug.

I frowned. 'Whatever! I didn't like the way he said few words.' I stated honestly before trying to walk away but had to stop really soon after I heard the call.

'So, you submitted your form?' I heard him ask.

Ugh! Why did have to go there? As if the previous things weren't enough m, now, I'll have to be further embarrassed in fdeof him again.

I guess I'll have to lie.

'Yes I..'

'Are those the forms in your hand?' he asked motioning to the papers.

Ugh!

'N.. No..' before I could complete, Seth walked closer and took the papers from my hand.

He glanced through them leaving me just few seconds to make up a story.

'You haven't submitted it?' he asked with a frown. 'You do know that you have to do it today, right?'

I sighed.  There was no way I could hide this. And he's gonna know it from someone or the other anyway.
'I did. But, they want an undertaking now. As you know, I'm not actually in good terms with my family and I really don't want to bother Dr. Lynch with these crap, I guess I should let it be..' I shrugged.

Seth looked at me blank as if he couldn't believe what I just said.

'Are you for real, Alexa? You really thought you would just walk away with this..?' he asked.

'At least that'd give me a feeling that I could've passed if I was given a chance and then I might blame them for my fate and not myself.' I confessed about my mental strategy, hoping he could relate.

Seth's frown deepened and his volume increased. 'Do you even realize that you're a sore..?' he looked around at people and then sighed.

'Come with me..' he held my wrist before I could even think and started dragging me with him.

'Prof.. What are you doing? Where are you taking me?' I asked in motion.

'Just follow me..' he said.

****
20 minutes later

All the tiny cells in my body might have been vibrating in an awfully fast rhythm that just couldn't let me breathe smoothly or even stand on my feet without shaking as I sat across Dr. Seth Rollins in his cabin. My heart paced as I tried ignoring it while tapping my heels on the floor.

'You..didn't have to do that..!' I said for the nth time to Dr. Rollins who was now signing on the undertaking he prepared for me.

This is so fucking embarrassing! I really didn't want to take any more help from this guy. I mean more, we hate each other and even without wanting, I've taken a lot of his aid. Besides, he's got Summer... Wait! Why am I thinking about Summer anyway?

'Shut up!' he just said. 'I know what I'm doing alright and yeah...don't you dare think I'm doing this out of my unconditional love for you..' he said in a mocking tone. 'I'm doing this because I feel liable to your absence because you sing for my band.' he said.

Jerk!

'Whatever....' I said with gritted teeth and looked away as he continued doing certain formalities.

'Here..' he handed me the papers. 'Go submit it before the process closes.' he said like I was his fucking slave.

I stood up taking the things from him. As he passed me the documents, our eyes locked.

Should I thank him? Of course...not. He's an asshole anyway.

'You're welcome.' he said nodding a little as I took the papers in my hand.

Huh! Did he read my mind or did he just prove again that he's a self-admiring jerk anyway. The later probably.

I nodded and turned around to leave.

'Uh.. Alexa!' My name was called again.

I looked back again surprised. An unexpected smile turned on Seth's face. 'You'll pass. Don't worry. Just study hard okay. You don't have to join the band till the tests. I'll manage.' he said.

I could say my eyes frowned. 'Sorry?' I said trying to know if I heard things right.

But, to that the jerk just gave a look of annoyance. 'My patients are waiting outside. Leave.' he said.

What on earth!

I gave him a dirty look. 'Bloody sucker!' I muttered before rushing out only to hear a heinous laughter trailing behind.

*****
That night

'Wow! Dr. Rollins rocks, you know..just like his songs!' Bayley exclaimed upon rethinking what just happened to me today.

Yeah, I submitted things successfully much to the dismay of Miss bitchy Lockhart. She couldn't believe the signature herself but then, well rules are rules and I was registered for sitting for the test.

'Nothing rocks! He finally realized that it was his responsibility since I worked for his band while missing the classes. So, he took the undertaking. That's it.' I said still mad on how he treated me at the end.

'Huh! May be but... I think you should start appreciating when someone does things for you. And I feel sorry for the times I actually misunderstood Dr. Rollins. He's quite nice, you know.' Bayley said blinking innocently.

'Only if you knew..' I scoffed rolling my eyes.

Bayley sighed. 'For now all I know is Dr. Rollins said you don't have to attend the practice and you can study for the tests all you want. So, let's not waste more time..' she said opening a big thick book that she said belonged to me but I had no idea about.

'Bayley.. Just one more hour..I have to go on a walk with Dynamo.' I said with a bored look.

Bayley crossed her arms tonight her chest behaving like a 50 years old grandmother. 'No. Not a single second.' she declared and I sighed deciding to oblige.

*****

14 days later

'Finally exams are over!' James squealed like a baby grabbing around the shoulders of me and Bayley from behind.

'Aahh..' Bayley winced as her hairs got a little pulled.

'Oops.. Sorry!' James said.

'Someone had a great test, it seems..' I said nudging James.

James chuckled. 'Well, definitely better than my expectations..' he said scratching the back of his neck.

'How was yours Lexi?' James asked.

I looked at James seriously and then at Bayley who was just asking me the same thing before James arrived.

'Umm..'

'Lexi.. Please, the paper was quite easy this time! I taught you almost everything.' Bayley said with a frown. 'Don't tell me you..'

'I'm definitely gonna pass.' I cut her off with a chuckle.

Bayley and James looked at each other and sighed in relief. 'You scared us?' James said.

'Hey friends! How was your tests?' Dango came and wrapped his arm around James.

'Gonna unexpectedly pass I guess..' I shrugged.

'Me too..' Dango chuckled. 'Better than expectation anyway..' he said and we chuckled high-fiving.

'Yeah. I felt so relieved.' James added.

'What about you Bayley?' Dango asked and Bayley's face fell immediately. 'I.. I don't know. You know in question no. 9, I was so confused and I really don't know if question number 14 meant..'

"Dango!" both me and James gave Dango a dirty look making Bayley stop anyway.

'Ouch!' Dango covered her ears. 'I should've been aware about her post-test tantrums.' he chuckled guiltily looking at me and James.

Bayley gulped. 'Not my tantrums guys I feel I'm gonna f..'

'Let's go have some snacks guys..' I ignored her guiding everyone towards the cafeteria. Dango and James did the same while chuckling.

Only if this girl had enough faith on herself, she'd know what a true genius she really is!

I shook my head and switched on my phone to see a message.

Seth: Join the rehearsal list from tomorrow. 9 am sharp.

*****

4 months later

'...and that's how you do this..! Got it?' Dr. Lynch showed me.

'Yep..' I said starting to marinate the mushrooms.

Dr. Lynch smiled continuing to chop the tomatoes.

Quite honestly, I really don't feel at ease about coming to this place. I wish Dr. Lynch still stayed with Dr. Ambrose. I remember how funny he used to act and even disturb our cooking playfully just to annoy Dr. Lynch. Me and Bay used to enjoy that so much..

'There.. The broccoli smoothie is ready!' Dr. Lynch said walking to the blender.

'Wow! It barely took ten minutes..' I said.

Dr. Lynch smiled. 'Yep. I decided to make it the moment Bayley mentioned it..' she chuckled.

I chuckled too. Dr. Lynch purposely sent Bayley to go and find a book time her shelf and go through a certain chapter only to surprise her with the smoothie which I assume Dr. Reigns had suggested to her. Of course, Bayley couldn't refuse it and went to Dr. Lynch's study room.

'Here you go Alexa..' Dr. Lynch poured me a glass.

'Uh thanks..' I said taking it.

'Hey Randy! Come grab your glass..' Dr. Lynch called her stupid boyfriend.

I wish it was Dr. Ambrose instead!

'Yes babe.. Damn smoothies! For me..?' Orton said like a creep and kissed Dr. Lynch'cheek from behind.

Ugh!

'Nope. For Bayley actually..' I said apparently in a joking tone but his face fell immediately and I really loved that.

'Ouch..' Orton pouted like he's hurt. And Dr. Lynch chuckled.

'Yeah.. For Bayley. The girl said she wanted to taste this broccoli smoothie but doesn't know how it tastes.. So, I decided to surprise her.' Dr. Lynch said.

'But, hey! We've got for everyone. Have your glass Randy..' she said handing Orton his glass.

'Damn! Bayley got me lucky too!' Orton chuckled pretending to be funny and took a sip. Nobody laughed though.

I took my own sip. 'Wow! It's amazing Professor! I'll try it myself now.' I said.

Dr. Lynch smiled. 'Thank you Alexa. You should try this.' she said pouring one more glass. 'Here.. Can you get this to Bayley?' she asked me.

I nodded with a smile but..

'Relax Alexa..you just keep doing the work. I'm gonna give this to Bayley..' Orton said outta nowhere.

What did he just say?

'No. Thanks Professor. I guess I'm gonna give it to her.. The mushrooms are almost marinated.' I said attempting to take the glass.

'I know. But, I guess the surprise would be better if I hand it to her. She can never even imagine..' he said chuckling.

I opened my mouth to object but..

'Hey! Randy's right! Let him give this to her. And she'll be so confused about it and she's gonna keep thinking when this happened and Randy would say he had no idea..' Dr. Lynch chuckled too.

'That's exactly my plan baby. She'll be so surprised.' Orton said.

'Yes. You take it Randy and yeah, tell her you have no idea. I just want to see her reaction when she confronts us..' Dr. Lynch said too absorbed in the surprise plan.

I wanted to object but I didn't want to defy Dr. Lynch.

'Sure..' Orton said walking off with the glass.

But, why is this guy to eager to get the smoothie to Bayley? No. I don't get good vibes from this. I have to look.

'Hey! Where are you going Alexa?' Dr. Lynch stopped me before started. 'Let us wait for her reaction. She'll come to us..' she said with a smile.

I wish I could tell her I can't trust your dickhead boyfriend with my naive best friend but decided to stay mum.

'Now, add this spice to it..' she said and I nodded.

As I kept on marinating and worrying at the same time, I saw Dr. Lynch getting unmindful looking at her own glass if smoothie.

'Professor, you're okay?' I couldn't help asking.

Dr. Lynch flinched a little and smiled with a sigh. 'I don't think Dean has made any smoothie on the blender we bought few months ago. I wish I could just make him..' she stopped realizing she doesn't want to express more in front of her student. 'Excuse me..' she said looking away.

It was too evident how Dr. Lynch misses Dr. Ambrose. Then, why..?

'Uh.. Professor! If you don't mind, you can make it for him and me and Bayley can drop by Dr. Ambrose' place and get it to him.' I offered carefully hoping not to cross the line.

Dr. Lynch looked looked at me with wide eyes.

'You're gonna do it?' she asked surprised and I could sense how happy she got in an instant.

'Uh.. Why not? The doctor's apartment is very near to our dorm..' I said.

Dr. Lynch smiled and I could see how emotional her smile was. 'Thank you Alexa. You know, I really feel happy when you and Bayley visit me. It reminds me if old days, of...'

She wiped her face as if wanting to wipe off her emotions. 'Well, I better chop the capsicums fast.'she said changing the topic.

I wish I could help her..

****

Two hours later

'Ugh! You act crazy sometimes you know. I told you he just spoke about the topics related to study and suggested me few books.' Bayley said as we sat at the back of a cab making way towards the Doctor's apartment in the Shield.

'And didn't you have Dr. Reigns for that? Why would you let him suggest you stay with you for so long?' I asked impatiently.

I just get bad vibes from this Orton.

'Jeez Lexi!' Bayley chuckled now. 'He's my Professor. I can't just ask him to fudge off this way, can I? And he just spoke to me for half an hour. Besides, he's got someone so beautiful and talented as Dr. Lynch. Why would he choose me over her?' she chuckled as if it was funny.

'And you think whenever a man approaches a woman, it's all about choosing for a relationship? Ugh! Bay, when will you understand? This world isn't a good place and people might just want to play around you and throw you like trash while maintaining everything they already has.' I explained.

Bayley blinked seriously now. 'It's good that we're going to Dr. Ambrose.' she said. 'Your paranoia needs to be discussed to a professional. You acted the same way when I went out with Dr. Balor!' she said.

Really! She thinks I'm being paranoid.

'And yeah, you fell for him too. And now, I'm scared that you're gonna get involved with Or..'

'Ewww no..' Bayley cut me off with her chuckle. 'I'm not that stupid Bayley anymore. He's Dr. Lynch's boyfriend for God sake and the most important thing is I've stopped seeing my Professors this way. You know, Professors are like our parents, the living form of God. We can respect them, worship them and we can't.. '

I burst out laugh before she could continue more. 'Aww! Bayley..!' I side-hugged her smitten by her innocence.

'What?' she asked.

'Nothing...' I said looking away. 'The thirst block from here..' I instructed the cab driver.

*****

'Here.. Press the bell..' I told Bayley as we reached the door. Bayley looked down at the knob and smiled.

'Remember that knob Alexa..' she said giggling.

I nodded with a smile. 'Yeah. I wish we could come here often.'

'Yeah. I wish Dr. Ambrose and Dr. Lynch were still together.' Bayley said.

Both today us sighed and Bayley pressed the bell.

The knob twisted a little before opening the door and to our surprise it wasn't Dr. Ambrose who opened the door. It was Dr. Reigns.

Bayley gasped evidently shocked. Poor girl is still scared of this guy to death.

'You two?' was what he asked.

I could feel Bayley shivering in fear. So, I took the glass of smoothie from her hand. 'Uh.... Hello Professor! Actually, we came here to give this smoothie to Dr. Ambrose.' I said lifting the jug for him.

Dr. Reigns frowned.

'Yeah.. Dr. Lynch sent this for him, actually. You can give this to him for us and we can leave.. I mean, if we are disturbing..' Bayley was speaking nonsense in nervousness.

'Becky sent this for Dean?' Dr. Reigns asked as if he was surprised.

'Yes Professor.' I replied before Bayley could mess up more.

Dr. Reigns' expressions changed slightly. 'Come in..' he said opening the door for us.

I nodded and we walked in. Bayley following me like my shadow.

'Seat for a while. Dean just got into the shower. Might take 20 minutes or so..' Dr. Reigns said taking a seat on the couch and picking up a magazine from the table.

Bayley nodded and took the seat. I did the same.

10 minutes later

Oh my God! I can't believe nobody is speaking a word and Bayley isn't even looking up.

Dr. Reigns' eyes were fixated on the magazine and worst of all, there was no sign of Dr. Ambrose.

I wish we actually handed the jug to Dr. Reigns and left.

I started tapping my heels slowly but Bayley nudged me to stop.

I gave her a look.

What the actual fuck!

Finally, Dr. Reigns cleared his voice. 'So, you two went to Randy's place?' he asked putting down the magazine.

'Yes. We.. I mean Alexa takes cooking classes from her..' Bayley replied.

Oh.. So, now just Alexa takes..

Dr. Reigns nodded.

My God! Bayley's right about calling him the grumposaurus.

'Do one thing, if you feel bored, you can just keep the jug in the kitchen and leave. I'll tell Dean about it.' Dr. Reigns said.

Bayley tried to reply immediately. 'No. We aren't getting bo..'

'Yeah, I guess we are gonna do that..' I said trying to escape from this boredom for real.

'You know the kitchen, right?' Dr. Reigns asked.

We nodded and stood up with the jug and walked to the kitchen.

Our jaw dropped on the sight passing us. The house looked so messed up.

The kitchen seemed to have not been touched for days.

'Oh my God! I can't believe Dr. Ambrose is staying in this!' Bayley exclaimed.

I felt bad too.

'I guess he doesn't know how to live without Dr. Lynch..' I said placing the jug on the slab.

Bayley sighed. We walked out of the kitchen watching one of the equally messed up bed rooms. I remember we used to go for rest in this room when we felt tired of cooking.

We walked to the living room to see Dr. Ambrose standing with Dr. Reigns talking about something. It seemed he just had a shower and he was just putting on a T-shirt.

Awkward! Thank God we didn't arrive a minute ago.

'Hello Professor!' an over excited Bayley said drawing everyone's attention and I could feel Dr. Ambrose too was surprised by her suddenness.

'Hey.. Hey Bayley! Hey Alexa! How are you doing?' he smiled pulling down his T-shirt for a better cover.

'Hello Professor!' I smiled. 'We are doing good. How are you?' I asked.

'I'm good too.' Dr. Ambrose said with a tired smile and that was enough to say he might be good physically but mentally he was all wrecked up.

'Becky sent you smoothies through them.' Dr. Reigns sort of eased us from belling the cat.

'Oh!' Dr. Ambrose looked at Dr. Reigns expressionlessly. Dr. Reigns gave him a nod, perhaps, a sign on how to act.

'Yeah. We kept it on the kitchen slab.' I said pointing to the kitchen.

Dr. Ambrose smiled. 'Thank you. Uh.. Come sit.' he pointed to the couch. 'I know it's totally messed up but..'

'No it's good. The kitchen and the bedroom near it looks even messier.' Bayley said without thinking a second before about it.

Shit!

I gave Bayley a nudge.

'Yeah I know. I'm sorry. I can't sort things. It's kinda..' Dr. Ambrose started to say but Bayley desperately needed to correct her previous statement. So, she did it..

'No. Not your fault. I know it was usually Dr. Lynch who did those and since she left you must be feeling do b..'

"Bayley!" both me and Dr. Reigns called giving her a stop it before she messed up more.

Bayley almost jumped. 'Jeez! I'm so sorry! I said something wrong again! Gosh! I'm so so sorry..' she started pleading and making a joke out of herself and me in the process. 'I.. I'm gonna.. I'm gonna fix your rooms, Professor.. Don't worry.. .'

Wait! What?

'Alexa, you're gonna help...' she asked but then saw my annoyed expression. 'Uh.. Guess that's not a good idea either..' she said panicking to herself. 'I.. I'm gonna leave then.' she muttered and before any of us could open our mouths rushed towards the door..almost bumping into Dr. Reigns on the way but thankfully he moved aside and she could rush out smoothly.

No wonder he always yells at her! She must be acting like this in front of him too.

'Bayley..' Dr. Ambrose called but in vain. Then, he started chuckling.

He turned to Dr. Reigns and then at me and chuckled. 'How do you two deal with her? She's such a precious thing!' he asked.

Aww!

'She is..' Dr. Reigns scoffed sitting down on the couch.

'But not all can handle her..' I added.

Dr. Ambrose nodded with a smile.

'Uh.. Anyway I guess I got to find her before she gets lost.' I said finding the way to sneak out.

'Enjoy the smoothie Professor..' I said to Dr. Ambrose. '...and you too Professor..' I said to Dr. Reigns before walking out smoothly.

Phew!

I walked towards the elevator. No sign of Bayley.

'Did you see a girl?' I asked the watchman sitting near the elevator. 'Quite tall. A pony on the side..' I added.

'Yeah.. I guess she took the elevator up. She seemed quite restless too.' he replied.

God! What is this girl up to?

I went to the elevator and took it up. Where to find her now? Where to go?

The elevator stopped at a familiar floor and I have no idea why I pressed the button knowing really well that he might be really really busy with one or the other of his hoes.

But, I was searching Bayley anyway.

'Excuse me! Did you see a girl in here? Quite tall.. Side pony?' I asked a random lady passing by.

'Don't think so..' she replied.

I guess I should just leave.. But should I knock his room slightly? May be he's alone and we can talk about music.. Ugh! What am I even thinking?

I hate Seth Freaking Rollins. That's it.

And for these four months, he has gone more annoying. He picks a war of words with me every now and then. He brings his girlfriend to the studio sometimes. Even though she barely stays and walks away being bored. And if that wasn't all, I even saw him flirty with random chicks in the hospital as well as calling them over phone in the studio. And the worst part is I know all he's interested in is a good sex. He's a complete jerk. But, despite everything sometimes he acts quite.. I don't know..

For example, last tuesday he gave me a random box of chocolates and said 'found it laying near the trash can..' and left.

When I opened it, I realized they were my favorite chocolates that I craved a lot during my childhood but barely got them. I spoke about this while talking about childhood favorite foods to the band members everyone of whom were sharing such experiences.

If that wasn't all, a month ago something more weird happened. I had an emergency duty with Dr. Lynch and had to stay till 12 midnight. While the duty was over and walked out with sleeping eyes and tired limbs, Seth was present at the parking and offered me a ride saying.. 'Damn! I wish I left a minute ago! Now that I saw your face, I have to play responsible and give you a ride. Just look at my luck...'

I was so mad but my tired body disobeyed me and I decided to take the ride. What shocked me more was that the next day I learnt that Dr. Rollins didn't have any duty at night and neither did he arrive in the hospital!

May be he just came here to see one of those nurses he bangs!

And sometimes, when I'm sad, I don't know why I feel he understands that without me reacting and he starts annoying me more. I often forget about my gloom in the process of arguing with him. I don't know why I feel he does that on purpose. But, why would he?

He often calls me at 12 or 1 when I have night shifts and picks up random topics of argument.

And at times.. It's more weird. There were moments I thought..

Ugh! Sometimes, I feel he's such a pain in the ass and sometimes I feel I'm craving for this pain..

Ugh! What am I thinking? He has Summer, Winter, Spring everything around him.

As I kept thinking about trash, something ran faster than light and as I saw that through the corner of my eyes unmindfully, I felt a little perturbed and it.. which I realized was a cat.. rushed forward, I winced and tried to move and slipped on my ankles and uhhhh..

Bang!

No, didn't happen because before I could fall flat on my back, I felt myself laying on balance being caught by two muscular hands from both sides. The cat mewwed crawling away.

What the..

Carefully, I opened my eyes and looked up to see the owner of the hands and...

No way!

'You?' I asked surprised.

'You?' he asked more surprised.

'Uh.. I came here to look for..' I looked around still in the floating position.

'Let me guess.. Bayley?' he scoffed.

'Yeah...She actually... ouch.' I was cut off as Seth suddenly pulled me up straight on my feet and I somehow managed to hold my balance.

'That excuse has gone old, Bliss. Try something new.' Seth said crossing his arms on his chest.

Huh?

'I mean, why would Bayley come in here anyway, especially this floor..?' he asked with a frown.

Well, that's a point but..

'I don't know. The watchman told me she came up. So, here I am..' I shrugged. 'And trust me, if I knew.. I'd run into you, I'd have never come here...' I rolled my eyes crossing my arms on my chest just like him.

Seth looked at me and ran his eyes all over me in a weird way. 'I love your honesty sometimes, you know..' he spoke in a serious slow tone.

'What do you mean?' I asked looking at him with a frown.

He scoffed walking closer. 'I mean, the way you said you'd never come here if you knew you'd be running into me..'

'Yeah.. I.. I was definitely being honest.' I said holding my heart and stepping back a little.

Seth walked closer. 'I know.' he said looking straight into my eyes. 'That you never want to see my face but sadly you have to every time you run into me and Dean while your morning practice.' he said.

Shit!

'...and you know what, I can only imagine how bad you feel when you come so early in the music class and have to spend some alone time watching my face. So, sad Bliss.. ' he said looking at me deeply while walking more close such that our bodies almost closed.

My heart paced but I wasn't the one going to succumb...not to him, anyway.

'Right. Much like you have to act responsible despite your hate for me every time the practice ends late..' I added.

'...and the fact that you always end up jogging in the track nearest to my practice slot despite not wanting to see me in the morning and spoil your entire day.. ' I stated an presumption taking the big risk with all at stake.

Dr. Rollins' face frowned slightly but then he smirked lifting his hand and carefully brushing my hair behind my ear. I fisted my hands containing myself from flinching under his touch.

'What to say..? May be my hatred just has too much power in it.' he said.

I gave him an equally sarcastic smile. 'In that case, we have to be really careful Prof..' I said lifting my hands and pushing Seth slightly away making his hand drop off my face.

'Woah... Indeed..' he chuckled. 'By the way, if you came few minutes ago, you could've met Lollipop.. She was with me..didn't have much fun though..' he winked with a smirk.

My jaw clenched. 'Damn! I missed that!' I said faking a smile. 'Did you tell Summer about it?' I asked playing excited.

He scoffed. 'Nah.. I don't hate her like I hate you. Don't have to explain to  her..' he said.

I really think he's as asshole sometimes. How could he just bring Lollipop in here?

'Wow! I'm obliged!' I said fake chuckling.

'You should be..' Seth scoffed and then his eyes traveled lower making me a little.. I don't know what..

'Red doesn't suit you. Don't wear that.' he smiled at the end.

What the fuck!

'Excuse me..!' I frowned not believing my ears. Who the hell he thinks he is!

'A little advice from the hater..' he winked. 'Take it. Don't take it. Your choice.' he shrugged.

I looked at myself again. Do I really look bad in red?

'Alexa!' I heard Bayley's voice before I could decide anything.

I looked behind and saw Bayley and Dr. Molly walking towards us with a smile.

Thank God! Bayley arrived!

'Hey Alexa! Hey Seth!' Dr. Molly said with a smile.

'Hello Professor!' I smiled at her.

'Hey Molly! So, it's you who hid Bayley from her mom?' Seth said sarcastically.

Mom!

Dr. Molly chuckled and Bayley joined her too.

'No. Actually I saw Bayley being a little restless. So, I asked her to come to my apartment.' she said.

'Oh!' Dr. Rollins said sparing me a glance.

'And yeah.. Here's your key. The plumber didn't come.' Dr. Molly said holding a certain key for Seth.

'Such a lazy ass!' Seth muttered. 'Anyway, thanks Molly.' he took the key abd left without even looking at me...

'Uh.. Key..?' I asked Dr. Molly curiously.

'Yes, Seth usually gives me the keys when he's out since we live next doors.' she said.

I frowned.

'So, was he out today?' I asked surprised.

'Yes. He just came from a meeting in the Shield. His key was with me and a plumber was supposed to come too.' Dr. Molly said.

'Oh!'

'Anyway Alexa, come ill show you my apartment.. This way..' Dr. Molly said.

'Come Alexa, you know Dr. Molly has a collection of dart boards. You'll love it..' Bayley too encouraged.

I was too numb to speak abd followed their gesture.

Why did Seth lie to me about Lollipop?

****

Few days later

What's taking Bayley so long? I don't know how she forgets the track of time whenever Dr. Reigns gives her a work! Doesn't she realize that there's somebody worried at the dorm. I called her and of course let, it was switched off.

She must be freaking out to get her phone out in front of him.

I waited patiently humming few songs but then..it was 11.

Omg! I don't think there's any emergency in the Gynecologily Department as for now!

Shit! Why does this girl do that?

Fine, I'll call that girl.. Dr. Reigns' Assistant.. What was her name?.. Mercy.. Yeah..

I picked my phone up recalling the day I called this girl to stay by Bayley in a conference I wasn't able to accompany her. Bayley seemed nervous and this Mercy supported her a lot.

I dialed for Mercy and after few seconds..

Mercy: Hello!

Alexa: Hello Mercy! It's Alexa.. Bayley's friend..You remember me?

Mercy: Oh yeah (remembering) How are you Alexa? And how can I help you?

Alexa: Well, actually uh.. Bayley.. Is she around? How long will she take, can you tell me?

Mercy: (surprised) Bayley! She's supposed to leave almost four hours ago! Didn't she reach?

Alexa: What? She left? But... Why didn't she come? Where did she go?

Mercy: Oh dear! I have no idea but..uh.. Something happened today and.. I don't know may be this one thing is bothering her a little.

Alexa: Today? What happened? (concerned)

Mercy: The thing is Dr. Reigns' fiancée Galina was supposed to go for her ultrasound in which Bayley was supposed to assist Dr. Reigns. But, she was a little late and Dr. Reigns.. You know him, right? He kinda burst too much on her. (sadly) And didn't even give her a chance to explain. This might have hurt her.

Alexa: This fucking grunposaurus...(mutters through gritted teeth)

Mercy: You said something?

Alexa: Uh.. No. Thanks Mercy. I'll look for her. Thank you for the information.

Disconnected

Fucking asshole grunposaurus! How could he treat Bayley this way despite her being so sincere all the time! If I was that sincere, Dr. Lynch would have been so proud of me!

And not just that..he has no idea what a pure soul Bayley is! I mean, it was just last night that Bayley was all sad and gloomy all because of him. I still can't forget her expression of respect for this guy..

You know Alexa, Dr. Reigns isn't just a professor for me. He's like a God.

Sometimes I feel people misunderstand Dr. Reigns. He might appear hard from outside but you know I've seen him with kids and the people near him, he's so soft innerly.

No.. Alexa! Dr. Reigns doesn't deserve this! He loves his fiancee so much and that girl is cheating on him!

Sometimes I want to tell Dr. Reigns everything about Galina and Dolph but I know he'll never trust me and worst, after knowing this life, he might be broken forever.. I see him as such a strong person Alexa. I can't see him like this..

I scoffed sarcastically at the resultant. This world doesn't value good people at all. Poor Bayley!

But, something happens to her today because of Dr. Reigns, the world's gonna see a different Alexa Bliss.

I walked out of the dorm. May be she's around somewhere. I don't think Bayley is still brave enough to cross the Shield gate.

I walked around. Almost everyone was asleep.

Ugh! This girl! Why does she think it's the end of this world if just one person is mean to her?

As I walked, I crossed the little park across the boy's dorm. No, she isn't here.

My heart thumped. Should I call James or Dango? No. They must be asleep already.

Seth..?

What am I thinking?

But, my feet unmindfully took the direction towards the Doctor's apartment.

Yeah..right.. Nobody around at this time. It's a stupid idea to disturb anybody anyway.

But, then my steps halted. I blinked my eyes hearing the humming of a very familiar voice.

I walked faster and Oh my God!

If it isn't the jerk himself! It was Seth, shirtless wearing a black short walking around at the back side of his apartment.

I bit my lips. I feel like laughing. But, suddenly he looked up and his eyes fell directly on me.

Shit! Now, he's gonna speak trash again.

But, instead he just smiled awkwardly and waved at me.

Fuck! Should I look away?

Doesn't he bother being so exposed in front of his student! Of course why would he? Some have seen even more?

'Hey Prof!' I waved back walking towards him. 'Didn't know Summer’s too hot to handle?' I teased with the double standard.

'Hahaha.. You have no idea Bliss.. She's boiled to the max..' he chuckled. 'Come sit here. Kinda hoping you'd be here with an excuse..' he said.

Wait! What?

He sat on a bench and patted beside motioning to me.

Should I? Well, who doesn't want to sit beside a shirtless sexy man?

Aaaaaaaaaaaaa.. I DID NOT JUST THINK THAT! Ewww..

Besides, how couches say I'd be here with an excuse when I actually came for Bayley..

Oh my gosh! Bayley!

I cleared my throat. 'Sorry I can't. Got to look for Bayley..' I said.

Seth looked at me blank and...laughed out loud.

'What? Hey! Why are you laughing?' I asked but Seth's laughter went louder as he stood up from the bench holding his stomach. 'Oh Bliss..' he came near me and pinched my cheeks.

What the heck?

'Don't you get tired of this excuse sweetheart? Why do you have to lose Bayley so much to find something else?' he kept laughing.

'Shut up Seth! Bayley's lost for real and I'm worried to death. Your jerk of a friend, Dr. Reigns said her something and she didn't return home..' I said.

Seth slowed a little.. 'Wait! Now, you're getting Roman into the mix too.. And by the way, do you mean to say that since Roman scolded her, she decided to stay with Roman and not return to her dorm to experience more scolding..' he laughed again. 'Oh Bliss.. You're such a bad liar..' he wrapped an arm around me making me flinch innerly.

Why does he have to be so close?

'Ugh! Don't touch me.. You smell of those hoes..' I tried pushing him away. 'Who knows how many were there today?'

Seth pouted. 'You wish babe. But, no luck today but the good thing is..'

Before he could complete, the scream of a woman reached my ears.

'You alluring womanizer! I should have known you before...and broken up way earlier..' the scream said and if I'm not wrong it came from the fourth room of the eighteenth floor, a.k.a Seth's apartment.

'Is.. Is that Summer?' I asked him surprised.

Seth sighed plopping back on the bench. 'Does winter have this zeal? Of course m, it's her.'

'But maybe, what happened? And why are you here..?' I was kinda concerned now.

Before anyone of us could say a word, a box came flying through Seth's window. 'Bloody cheater! I wish I could throw you out of my life before like I threw you out of your apartment today..' Summer screamed so loud that I guess everyone asleep woke up.

I looked at Seth with a dropped jaw. 'She kicked you out of your own apartment?' before Seth could reply, a chuckle escaped my lips.. '...and dumped you like a crap..!' I laughed out loud not being able to control the situation.

Summer just broke up with Seth!

'Shut up! I was going to dump her anyway.. She was just for sex..' Seth said trying to act cool but I laughed even harder on his pathetic situation and plopped down next to him.

'Oh dear! Look at you, you have to come out of your apartment without your shirts and pants.. All at her courtesy.. And I was wondering if you were playing strip tease at this time of night..' I nudged him within my laughter.

Seth gave me a look of annoyance. 'Very funny, isn't it? Of course, I knew you'd be happy..' he said.

Before I could know the implication of his words another scream came and a wrist watch fell off shattering into pieces.

'You think I'll let you keep anything I gifted you with my money. No way! I wish I had Roman instead..' Summer screamed.

Oh dear!

'Yeah, that was her death wish to be banged by Roman..' Seth scoffed like it never even affected him.

'But, what's with her screaming this way? The whole apartment and even the boys staying at dorm can hear her!' I said after realizing the craziness.

'Yeah..' Seth sighed and immediately a tie fell off his window. 'Don't worry, she's gonna leave herself after throwing off the things she gifted me. And yeah, the poor girl wants some publicity. Why disturb?' Seth shrugged like it was his hated distant cousin that just got dumped by his girlfriend.

What kind of a person is he?

'But, aren't you supposed to feel sad or something..?' I asked raising my brows.

'Trust me I want to cry a river Bliss..' he faked a tear. 'And look I'm a straight edge, can't even drink few bottles for my sweet girlfriend.. Ooops ex-girlfriend.' he said before trailing with a chuckle.

'You think you'll be happy while banging all these women behind my back. No Seth Rollins. You are not. You are not fucking worthy of me. I wish I had Roman..' Summer screamed the loudest this time.

'Uh.. Fucking bitch.. Screams a lot. Yeah yeah.. You fucking deserve Tom Cruise..' Seth screamed loud now..

'Jesus! Seth..' I half chuckled and slapped his arm. 'Slow down.' I said feeling embarrassed myself.

'Don't even speak a word you restarted jerk.. Where is it now..? Where is it?' she kept on screaming.

'That's on the bed stand. Take that and spare me..' Seth shouted again.

'She's seriously taking all her gifts..?' I questioned.

I couldn't even finish and a gift wrapped small box came flying hitting Seth's head.

'Ouch!' he winced.

'What's that?' I asked taking the box and started unwrapping it.

'The most valuable gift she had for me..' Seth said rubbing his head. And it was a..

'Condom! Seriously!' I gasped throwing the box away.

Seth chuckled. 'Relax! That's unused..' he said.

'I can't believe you're handling a breakup this way..' I said looking at him surprised.

Seth raised his hands up. 'Can't help it babe. Love turns to hate and love comes again. Simple facts.' he said.

I rolled my eyes. 'Not at all. Don't even use the term love with your context. I think you never loved Summer. Because love can never be equated with the stupid kind of relationships you seem to have. It's special. It's sacred. It's selfless and..'

Seth chuckled out loud. 'Aww Bliss.. Love is so sacred like, isn't it. That's why I'm so addicted to it sweetheart..'

I shook my head in annoyance. 'Well.. Then.. Let me give you a situation..' I said patiently sitting him face to face.

'Suppose you're spending some quality time with Summer and an earthquake...a high magnitude earthquake occurs.. And you see people rushing around.. What will you do?' I asked patiently.

'Well, when me and Summer have quality time, there's gonna be an earthquake on the bed anyway..' he winked with a smirk.

'So, for you quality time means just sex, isn't it?' I asked sarcastically. 'Now, tell me if you and Summer are having sex and the earthquake arrives.. What will you do? Now, please don't lie and say you'll keep having sex..' I warned.

'Okay fine..' Seth scoffed. 'Me and Summer and a violent earthquake.' he imagined.

'And you could die if you don't leave?' I added.

'Fucking hell! I'd rush out. Gotta do many more shows for the Kingslayers before death.' he says.

'And what about Summer? What if she's stuck?' I asked.

'Ugh! She's smarter than you Bliss.. She's gonna find her way too. And if she's still stuck, there are helplines coming. I won't play a foolish hero for her and try saving her anyway, if you're asking me that.' he said kinda annoyed.

I sighed and smiled. 'I was right. You never loved her. Because if you did, you would have held her with you all through the thing..and never left her alone..' I explained.

'Seriously!' Seth scoffed. 'Oh Bliss.. May be you're right..' he chuckled taking my theory as a joke. 'Holding Summer during an earthquake even sounds funny..' Seth cackled loud laying his head back.

I shook my head and then a certain sound of steps hit both of our ear and we.. Or at least I, sat up straight.

It was Summer with the angriest look with a big bag stuffed with things walking out.

Her eyes fell on us and widened.

'Wow! Seth Rollins! You're such a shameless creature! I just dumped you am hour ago and here you are cozing up with another girl around your arms.' she bitched.

'Wait a second!' I revolted immediately standing up. 'Look Summer, I'm not someone like you who..'

'Damn right.. You're not someone like her baby..' Seth stood up engulfing me within his arm. 'You're a way better girlfriend in handling me, who cooks like a mother and cares like a friend and yeah, you're way better than this stupid Summer in bed..' Seth kissed the side of my head smirked.

Ewww.. What? My eyes widened in disbelief.

'Seth, what are you..?

'I should've known. I've seen your proximity during the shows. Ugh! Of course, you two losers deserve each other.. Enjoy..' Summer screamed in anger and left walking fast.

'You too Summer..' Seth yelled. 'Get a winner for you while we losers enjoy. Bye..' he said.

My teeth pressing hard against each other tamed the beating in my heart after the unexpected kiss on the side of my head and of course, he was still holding me.

As I realized that, I slapped his arm and pushed him away.

'Jeez Bliss.. Relax..'

'What the fuck were you talking about, huh?' I asked. 'Do you have any idea what she'd think about me now.. She'll think..'

'And since when you wanted to be a good girl to Summer and make an impression on her..' Seth said making a funny face.

I threw him a dirty glare and sat down on the bench. 'You suck, you know.'

'And I hate you admit it, but you look hot when you're angry..' Seth said sitting beside me.

Oh dear! Does he mean it?

'Nah.. To be honest, you look the prettiest when you smile..' he said looking at me.

I frowned.

'.. And this time, I mean it, Alexa..' he said with an intense serious look on his face.

My heart jumped. I quickly looked away.

'Summer was right when she called you a shameless creature..' I muttered softly trying not to focus on his piercing eyes.

Seth sighed looking away. 'Don't think about Summer. She's gone now. And now it's just u...'

'It's just..?' I instinctively looked at him and he looked at me immediately at the same time, getting our eyes locked.

'Just us..' Seth smiled and lifted his hands while softly stroking his finger on me cheek.

I didn't know how fast I was breathing right now. I couldn't match eyes with Seth. I looked down. It felt like his gaze was gonna swallow me.

But, soon I had to wince as I felt Seth's finger lift my chin and making me look at his deep, dark eyes. His gaze shifted from my eyes to few inches below and then back up.

'You have no idea how badly I want to kiss you right now..' He said shocking my entire being and making my mind, body, heart and soul paralyzed immediately.

I didn't speak, I couldn't.. I felt Seth's hand cup the side of my face...and my eyes closed. My entire face feeling warm instantly. My heart pounded so loud that I feared even Seth would hear it.

Soon, I felt hot air fanning my face.

My mind debated. I wanted to push him away. I recalled the day I had my first kiss.

No. I don't want to push him away. May be I want to stay paralyzed and let the world take over me.

I don't know why I'm feeling what I am feeling right now.

'Alexa, is that you..?' I heard a familiar voice that made me open my eyes immediately and I felt Seth moving his hand too.

20 feet from us stood Bayley..

Bayley! That's why I was here!

My mind disagreed with that being the only reason of me being here but how could I forget about Bayley, my best friend.

'Bayley..! Where have you been?' I stood up and rushed towards her.

She had her eyes swollen like she had been crying for hours.

'Oh Bayley!' I hugged her tight.

'Where were you? I was looking for you?' I asked.

'There you are Bayley.. Your friend has been looking for you. Why do you get her so worried every time, eh?' Seth asked in a natural tone.

Now, I just met the fear if Bayley saw us... Ugh! How stupid can I be?

'I..' Bayley looked down shyly watching Seth in his favorite look.

Can't blame her though..

'.. I was sad and I was sitting by the lake...and I fell asleep on the grass..' Bayley said in a sad tone.

I realized she had few grassy things stuck at the side of her face. I wiped them slowly.

'Aww! You got me so worried! Never ever go there alone, okay..' I explained softly knowing her fragile condition. Right now I didn't want to explain her the possibilities of danger she might have had sleeping there alone.

'Yeah.. Uh.. I'll drop you girls..' Seth said. 'Just let me put on a shirt..' he said walking to his dorm.

Even though I wasn't strong enough to face him at this moment and damn confused about what was just going to happen between us moments ago, I knew Bayley was too weak to walk.

So, I didn't object to the ride.

As he left, Bayley sobbed again. 'Alexa.. I..'

'Ssshh.. You don't have to say anything.' I said consoling her. 'I know how that stupid grumposaurus burst on you for no reason. He's such a..'

'No.. Please..' Bayley cut me off unexpectedly. 'Don't say anything about him. The poor guy doesn't even know that the baby in which he's seeing his world isn't even his..' he said in an emotional tone.

My eyes widened. 'Bay.. You..'

Beep Beep..

The car light flashed.

'Ladies.. Hop in..' Seth said motioning to us. I nodded opening the back door and aiding a vulnerable Bayley to enter first. I joined her there after.

'Ready?' Seth asked as our eyes locked in the rear view mirror once again. I nodded.

*****

Finally! I ended the chapter!

Sorry for the previous confusion

For those who read the incomplete version, you get a little bonus 😁

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