Semi-Edited (What else is new)

Song above is....Kiss Me Slowly by Parachute (This song will always be amazing!)

Happy Reading! :)

The next morning I woke up beyond giddy. Despite it being Monday I was looking forward to going to school. Something I haven't felt in a long time; especially since the start of the school year. But knowing I was going to see Alex later made me excited.

After Alex kinda asked me on a date we headed back inside. I was more than okay with watching another movie and spending the day with everyone but as soon as we got back in the fort Olivia was waiting for us.

Apparently Derek's mom texted and wanted them both back for dinner. And seconds after Alex got a text from Noah saying his parents wanting Alex and Harper back as well.

As much as I didn't want everyone to go, especially Alex, I knew they needed to go home to their families. The fact that I was alone hit me straight in the face. I didn't have a family that wanted me home for dinner.

So after everyone left I found myself sitting in the fort by myself, making my own dinner as I watched tv, trying my hardest not to feel bad for myself. It would do me no good. It did help that I kept replaying Alex and I's kisses in my head. Made me feel less alone.

Walking into school the next morning I knew I had a wide grin on my face, something that hasn't happened since the start of the year. I knew I wouldn't see Alex until lunch but that wasn't going to stop my good mood. Now that I knew why he wasn't around in the morning I wouldn't go around waiting or looking for him.

Taking a seat in English I got out the new book we were going to start, 1984, despite already have read the first few chapters. I waited for class to start and couldn't help but over hear a conversation happening in front of me.

"He looks so hot even with that bruise."

"I know! And at the game on Friday he played amazing."

"Don't even get me started on the party afterwards." The first girl interrupted the other. They both swooned as they kept talking and I knew exactly who they were talking about.

Despite Mitch being suspended he was still apparently able to play in the game on Friday. I had forgotten it was a game day, having spent the day with Liv and Lexi and then with Alex at the fight.

Back when I was Mitch's 'girlfriend' I went to all of his football practices over the summer. He wanted me there on the bleachers watching, even when it was 6 o'clock in the morning.

I wasn't the only girl that went to the football practices over the summer. A lot of the girls were under classmen that wanted to look at the guys shirtless as they worked out. And more often then not they all took off their shirts at one point.

It really was a good set of eye candy. I hated to admit it but I did enjoy going and cheering Mitch on as he played. Watching as he threw pass after pass. There was no denying he was a good quarterback.

But because we 'dated' over the summer I never got the chance to actually attend a football game. Mitch use to make me promise that I'd show up and wear his jersey. At the time I couldn't wait. The idea of wearing the quarterbacks jersey in front of everyone was the dream all girls had.

Whether we wanted to admit it or not we all wanted that. Wanted to date the most popular guy and have him show us off by giving us his jersey with his number on it.

I use to get so giddy about the thought. I'd sit in my room after spending the day with Mitch and think about showing up to the game with Mitch's jersey, all the girls looking at me in shock. Like they couldn't believe that the most popular guy was dating me. The jealous looks that would cross their faces as I sat front row, cheering my man on.

I was such an idiot. I was so lost in a daydream that I never saw the signs. I should have seen the signs because there was no way a guy like Mitch would actually date me. If only I had notice I probably would have seen the snickers between him and his friends. The possessive, controlling, humiliating, things he did.

"That bitch really ruined him you know." I was brought back at the words the two girls in front of me registered. They were talking pretty loud and I was certain almost everyone in the room could hear.

"Who would cheat on Mitch? I mean yeah his friends are smoking hot and I'd let one take me for a ride but Mitch is on a whole different level."

They were clearly talking about me but the amount of hatred in their voices threw me. Neither of them have ever had a proper conversation with me. We've never once spoken and yet here they are hating me.

"And now she has her claws in Alex Kinley. Like that bitch hasn't done enough."

"She thinks she's so hot or something. Like Alex would want anything to do with her. She's not even pretty!" The last part the girl almost yelled. "I mean have you seen her face!"

"Her face? Have you seen her clothes and body? She's on the bottom of everyone's list on who to fuck."

Each word stabbed me in the chest. I've heard these things before. They aren't new to me, having heard them since Mitch humiliated me at the start of the year, but it didn't make them hurt any less.

My eyes moved on their own looking around the room. My whole body locked up at seeing the entire class looking at me. Most, if not all, looked at me like I was the dirt on the bottom of their shoe. They all heard the two girls in front of me and they all agreed.

Despite the looks on the their faces a few of the guys were leering at me. Almost like they were trying to see underneath my clothes. After hearing that I 'cheated' on Mitch with his friends I've had a few guys come up and try to get with me as well. Thinking that I was some slut and would put out for them.

If I did with Mitch's friends why not them? Those exact words came out of most of their mouths. They may hate me but they also want to sleep with me. Probably to brag about it to everyone.

The two girls in front of me kept going on and on, oblivious to the fact that I could hear them and the entire class too. I felt like my chest was closing in making it hard to breath.

Ducking my head, I gripped my thighs, trying my best to breath. Last thing I need is a panic attack to happen in class with everyones else on me. Judging. Whispering even more than they are right now.

Thankfully before the girls could continue the teacher walked through the door, silencing everyone. I could have kissed him right then. As the teacher started talking I managed to calm myself and ease the slight panic in my chest. The day started off good and was now taking a turn. Should have expected that.

The rest of class I kept my head down, ignoring everyone and keeping my eyes on my book. Fortunately nothing else happened and finally the bell rang. I quickly left the room and headed for Calculus.

I was the first person in class but I didn't care. I needed a moment to gather myself before anyone else came in. By time everyone started trickling in I had myself under control.

"Remind me again why we need calculus." Olivia groaned as she fall into the desk beside me.

"To torture us?" I supplied.

"Worst subject ever." She muttered, to which I instantly agreed. I'm never going to use it again in life so why do I need to take this class?

Before we could say much more Mr. Cannon started talking. I could hear almost silent groans around us. We weren't the only ones who hated this class.

By time class was over I was ready to pull my hair out of its ponytail. Mr. Cannon assigned us worksheets to do during class and each one got harder and harder. I was completely lost by number 4 and literally spent the last 30 minutes staring at the problem. Beside me Olivia was doing a bit better but she looked ready to scream at any second.

The moment the bell rang the entire class was out of their seats in seconds and out the door. Liv and I didn't waste a second before bolting out the door. As soon as we entered the hallway we both shared a grimace.

Definitely the worst class.

"How are my two favorite girls doing?" Derek slid up next to us, throwing an arm around Olivia's shoulders.

"My brain is fried from Mr. Cannon's class and it's only monday." Liv groaned. If only we could have that class once a week instead of everyday.

"Fried that little brain of yours?" Derek went to mess up her hair but Liv quickly elbowed him in the stomach before he could do so. "Ow!"

"One, don't call my brain little. And two, never touch a girls hair." She narrowed her eyes at him. Derek raised his hands in defeat and took a small step back. I loved how a 5'2 girl could make a 6'1 guy cower by one look.

"Don't want to be late. I'll see you two at lunch." With a grin to me and a small shove to Derek, Olivia turned and headed for her next class.

"Who knew such a small person could be so violent." Derek muttered watching Liv walk away.

"You love it." I nudged his arm before turning for our own class.

"I do." He said it so quietly I almost didn't hear him over the voices of everyone in the hallway.

"So, when are you going to tell her?" I questioned, dodging people as we walked.

"Tell her what?" Derek asked once he was back to my side. I looked up at him.

"That you are in love with her." At my words Derek paused in the middle of the hallway. I was a few steps away before I noticed. He stared at me with an unknown expression.

"What do you mean?" His voice came out low and for a second I thought I had crossed a line. Maybe I had. I didn't know Derek well enough or even long enough to comment on his relationship with Olivia. But I did want them to be happy, and if they needed a little push towards each other I'd be happy to do it.

"I..." I wasn't quite sure what to say.

"I'm not in love with Olivia." The little squeak in his voice gave him away. Knowing we only had two minutes left to get to class I kept on walking, knowing he would follow.

I heard his footsteps behind me as he jogged to catch up.

"Riley I'm not." It sounded like he was trying to convince himself more than me.

"Derek you don't need to convince me." I said softly as we entered Government. I now felt bad for bringing it up. He clearly didn't want to talk about it or admit his feelings to me about Liv.

He was quiet for a moment as he took his seat next to me. It was crazy how fast I've gotten use to having someone sit next to me in class in such a short amount of time. Even if Derek almost got us in trouble a few weeks ago I liked him entertaining me in class. Before I was so secluded from everyone and alone, and now I wasn't. It was nice.

"How do you tell someone you've known for years that you like them?" Derek asked, his voice so soft I almost didn't hear him. A glance over at him my heart sunk a little at the look on his face. He looked so devastated.

"I think she already knows on some level." Derek's head snapped towards me. He had an almost panicked look at my words. "For girls..." I struggled to find the right words.

"For girls simple gestures are enough to show us. Sometimes we don't understand what those gestures mean or how they make us feel. Especially when we've convinced ourselves that the person giving those gestures won't ever be anything more than a friend."

"What kind of gestures though?" Derek moved his enter body so he was facing me, leaning forward slightly.

"You don't need to go all out to show her what she means to you. Just being there when she needs someone, listening to her, making her smile." I listed off. "Girls are simple. We don't need huge gestures."

"Do you...do you think I should tell her?" The fact that he genuinely wanted my opinion made me smile. Placing my hand on his arm I squeezed softly.

"I don't want to tell you what to do but you need to think about all of it. You need to make sure you can really see yourself with Olivia and if you are really ready for a relationship. It won't be fair to Liv if this is just a fling or have it end after a few months. Neither of you deserve that." The words came out a little blunt but they had to be said.

Olivia has become my best friend and I couldn't stand the thought of her getting hurt. If the guy she's been practically in love with ends up breaking her heart because it turned out to be a small crush, she won't recover from that. Especially if I was the one pushing Derek to say something.

"I can't imagine my life without her. Even if she's just my friend its better than nothing at all." I squeezed his arm knowing what he was saying. Its the same thing as with Alex. I'd rather stay in his life as a friend then not at all.

"If you did decide to tell her I'll be here to help with anything you need." He sent me a grateful smile and turned back around in his chair. I was more than happy to help.

The rest of class went by surprisingly fast and sooner than I thought Derek and I were walking out the door.

"I need to go to my locker so I'll meet you outside."

"I'll come with you." My eyebrows raised.

"You don't have to."

"In case you forgot Lingston is back and you're not walking by yourself." A smile tugged at my lips. I had a slight suspicion this was Alex's doing but I wasn't going to complain.

Shrugging I lead him towards my locker in the opposite direction of class. I didn't want to admit it but I was a bit jumpy knowing Mitch was back in school after the whole...naked picture thing. I doubt he's too happy about Alex punching him and getting him suspended.

I was just silently hoping Mitch would stay away from now on. I was in the middle of putting my textbooks away when an all too familiar voice spoke next to me.

"Whoring yourself out to Kinley's friends now?"

My whole body tensed and my grip on my locker door tightened. It was wishful thinking Mitch would stay away.

"Just can't help yourself huh?" He sneered.

"Can't stay away from me huh." I found myself saying without thinking, finally looking at him over my shoulder. I watched as his eyes narrowed at me.

"Better put a leash on your bitch, Coseman." I felt Derek tense and take a step forward but I put a hand on his arm, stopping him. Didn't need someone else getting in trouble because of me.

While Mitch's words felt like a slap to the face I brushed it off. I wasn't going to give him the satisfaction of his words getting to me. That is what he wanted. Mitch wanted me to break down at his words, some sick way of showing he still held power over me.

"Lets go." I muttered, moving around Mitch but he stepped in my path.

"You'd do well to remember that I own you." He hissed, his voice dangerously low.

"No one owns me." I snapped, glaring up at him. "Find someone else to be your bitch." I spat before side-stepping him.

My whole body was shaking as I walked away, my steps hurried. The further away from him the better. My head was whirling at the fact that I talked back to Mitch. I usually just took it but something inside of me today wasn't going to let his words slide by. I only hoped my talking back didn't make things even worse.

I didn't stop walking until I saw the door leading outside. I pushed it open and stumbled out, gulping in the fresh air. I pushed my hair away from my face with shaky hands.

"Riley?" Derek softly spoke. "You okay?"

I nodded but we both knew that was a lie. I could almost feel a slight panic attack starting once more. Probably from all the adrenaline running through me at what just happened.

With a soft expression Derek gently touched my lower back and steered me in the opposite direction. I let him lead me across the grass in the direction of where Liv and Alex probably were. I tried to get my shaking under control before we got to the table, neither Alex or Liv needed to see me like this.

Unfortunately the shaking didn't stop by time we reached the table. Liv was sitting there talking to Alex who was perched on top of the table, his phone in his hands but his eyes glued in our direction; almost like he was waiting for us.

It only took one glance at us for Alex to jump off the table and stalk towards us.

"What's wrong?" He demanded, his eyes briefly flashing towards Derek before landing on me.

I don't know what came over me but one second I was standing next to Derek and the next I was practically lunging at Alex. I crashed into him, pushing my face into his chest, my hands going around him gripping the back of his jacket.

Alex coiled one arm around my back and the other came up to softly touch the back of my head, holding me tight against him. My whole body shook as I gripped onto Alex.

"What happened?" Alex questioned again, his chest vibrating under my head.

"We had a run in with Mitch." Derek explained.

"What did he do?" If there was any room left between our bodies there wasn't anymore.

"Just said a few things." I could tell Derek was trying not to repeat what Mitch had said. He sounded just as pissed off as Alex did "But Riley was pretty badass."

"Did he try to hurt you?" Alex asked so softly only for me to hear. He definitely knew it was Mitch that bruised my wrist that day. I shook my head still buried in his chest. I practically felt the tension ease out of his body a little.

"Lets sit down." I didn't want to move, I could have spent hours in that position with Alex's arms around me, but I knew I had to let go. With only my hands now slightly shaky I stepped back out of his hold.

Alex kept his hand on my lower back and as soon as I sat down on the bench he was right next to me. Olivia sent me a concerned look making my cheeks heat up. Well that was embarrassing. Alex's hand rubbed up and down my back soothingly.

"Can't believe he's back." Liv muttered.

"You sure your okay?" Alex leaned in, whispering in my ear. Now that I was away from Mitch I was feeling much better.

"I'm good." I sent him a soft smile, behind grateful for how concerned he was being.

"If it makes you feel better I got you this." Liv said drawing my attention away from Alex. With a smile she slid a bag of Funyuns in my direction. My eyes widened as I saw the delicious snack.

My hand snatched the bag so fast, my mouth instantly watering.

"Have I told you I loved you?" I grinned at Liv before opening it. I wasted no time in shoving two in my mouth. Beside me Alex chuckled while Liv and Derek stared at me with amused expressions.

I ate a few before I finally slowed down a bit. Knowing I better be polite I made myself turn to Alex, extending the bag.

"Want some?"

"Oh are you going to share?" He teased, raising an eyebrow.

"I can eat them all if you don't want any." I went to bring the bag back to me when his arm snapped out. I grinned as he stuck his hand into the bag.

Something was clearly wrong with me because I found myself staring at him as he ate a few Funyuns. I watched as his jaw muscles clenched as he chewed. Yep, something was definitely wrong with me.

Liv and Derek made small talk while Alex and I munched on our funyuns. Just sitting here with them was enough to completely calm me down and slightly forget about Mitch. I've dealt with worse from him and I wasn't going to let a few little words get to me. Not anymore.

A few things have changed since I met Alex and his friends. Knowing I had people here that had my back and didn't think of me in the same way as everyone else, gave me enough confidence to not care as much.

Yes, the words still stung and it hurt. But they did affect me as much as before. Hell I just talked back to Mitch. It wasn't huge but it was a big step compared to just a few weeks ago. Before I let him walk all over me. Not anymore.

We were mid-conversation when my phone started ringing. The fact that I rarely ever got calls made me hesitate before pulling it out of my back pocket. The moment I saw the name on my screen I jumped up, shoving the bag of funyuns at Alex.

"Hey!" I practically yelled into the phone, stepping a bit away from the table.

"What's up baby sis?" Hearing my brothers voice through the phone instantly made my eyes tear up. It's been so long since we've actually talked on the phone instead of texting.

"Trent." My voice wobbled a little as it full on hit me how much I missed my brother.

"Ri please don't cry." I couldn't help but giggle at his rhyming.

"I miss you." I whispered.

"I miss you too. I didn't call to make you cry though. How have you been? Staying out of trouble? Eating?" Trent rattled off like the concerned brother he always was, making me smile.

"I've been good. Staying out of trouble like always." Trent knew nothing about what has been going on here. The few times that we have been able to talk, I haven't said anything about Mitch. There was no point in telling him. Not like he could come home and 'defend me'. Plus I need to take care of this myself.

"Anything interesting happen since we last talked?" I could hear rustling on the other end of the phone making me wonder where he was.

"Not really." I turned to the side a little to look at my new friends. They were talking amongst each other but my eye caught Alex. He sent me a questioning look.

"Have you seen mom and dad recently?" Trent asked, making me look away from Alex.

"Mom called me the other day for maybe a minute but no." A small pang went through my chest. It's been months since I last saw my parents. The fact that Thanksgiving and Christmas were coming up made me sad, I had no clue if my parents would come home. Last year it was just me and Trent, but this year I'll most likely be alone.

"I'll call them and tell them they need to come home." I didn't miss the pissed off tone in his voice.

"Trent, we both know that's useless." By now we both know it isn't worth calling them to ask them to come home. They won't.

"Riley you are there alone. Our parents can leave their fucking jobs to come home."

Our parents were a sensitive topic between us. With them never around Trent took over the parent figure. He would literally do everything a parent should; helping me with homework, taking care of me when I was sick, picking me up from school even though he had practice after.

He was literally the best person on the planet.

"I can't stand the thought of you there alone."

"I know." I spoke softly. "But I'm not alone....I have friends."

"Friends? Did you make some new friends?" The surprise in his voice made me roll my eyes this time. He seemed to shocked.

"Yes I did." Trent was silent for a moment waiting for me to continue.

"And? What are they like? Who are they?" I hesitated not sure if I should tell him four of them were guys. It would send him into protective mode thats for sure.

I turned back to Alex, Liv and Derek. The sight of them talking and laughing made a smile tug at my lips.

"They are pretty great. They've helped me a lot." I said the last part softly.

"Good." Trent thought I meant being here alone but little did he know they've helped helped me out in more ways than one. "Shut the fuck up. I'm talking to my little sister." Trent suddenly hissed.

Through the phone I could hear another male voice speak followed by a loud 'ow'. I grinned at the girl-like scream.

"Who is that?"

"Some dumbass." Despite the rude name I could tell there was a teasing tint to Trent's voice.

"Nicholas at your service." A new voice suddenly spoke into the phone. The deep tone surprised me, it almost rivaled Nico's.

"Hi." I greeted with a smile. I turned around and headed back to the table.

"Your brother won't tell us what you look like." The guy, Nicholas, said almost sounding out of breath. Kind of like he was wrestling the phone away.

"That's because you don't need to know!" I heard my brother yell. I laughed as the pair started arguing through the phone. Alex, Liv and Derek glanced at me curiously as I took a seat. Probably wondering who I was talking to.

"Stay away from my sister."

"Don't worry she'll come to me on her own!" There was more rustling and the sound of things crashing. "I'll talk to you later cutie."

"Bye Nicholas." I laughed. I knew his words were only teasing to get to my brother.

"Asshole." My brother my grunted as he came back on the phone.

"Sounds like you made some friends too." I knew if I could see my brothers face it would be scrunched up in annoyance.

"Freckles the bell is about to ring." Alex butted in, softly nudging my arm to get my attention.

"Who's that?" Of course my brother heard that. "Who called you 'freckles'?"

"I better go. The bell is going to ring." I ignored his question.

"Riley that sounded like a guy's voice."

"I'll talk to you later Trent." I wanted him off the phone before he could start questioning me about Alex. I hated keeping things from my brother but I knew the lecture that would soon follow.

"Riley who is the guy!"

"I'll call you later. Be safe. Love you."

"Ri-" I quickly hit the end phone call. I knew for a fact Trent would call me later to continue on the conversation.

"Who was that?" Olivia asked.

"Who is Nicholas?" Alex asked at the same time. I caught a hint of jealously in his tone. Alex stared at me waiting for my answer, almost like he thought Nicholas was some boyfriend I haven't told anyone about.

"That was my brother." I responded back to Liv first. "And apparently his friend Nicholas." The last part was directed at Alex. From the corner of my eye I saw the tension in his shoulders disappear. Liv rolled her eyes at Alex making me grin.

Was someone jealous? I couldn't help but feel a bit of happiness at seeing the jealously on Alex's face. I probably shouldn't considering I had no clue what we were exactly, but knowing that he was jealous made my heart flutter a little.

Derek and Olivia branched off to their own classes as Alex and I made our way to Biology. Alex stayed right by my side as we walked. Like usual people watched us walk together but this time their attention only lasted for a moment. Maybe Alex and I walking together was old news now. I didn't have high hope that everyone was bored of the drama that involved me. This is high school we are talking about.

As soon as we walked into Biology I scrunched my nose up at a smell. Looking around I noticed each table had hits on them and I had a sinking feeling I knew what we were about to do.

"I think we are going to dissect something." Alex commented next to me as we walked towards our table in the back. Until now we haven't had to do anything like that and I was beyond grateful but looks like our luck has run out.

The entire classroom stunk and the further in you went the worse it got.

"Oh god." I groaned. "If I have to dissect some poor animal I'm out."

"Maybe it will be a cat or something." Alex suggested, placing his backpack on the desk.

"Alex!" I slapped his arm. "Don't say that."

"Why not?" He laughed.

"Because that is mean and horrible!" I slapped his arm with every word. Alex put his hands up and took a step back.

"Fine, fine. No dead kittens." I rolled my eyes at him and took a seat. "But it got your attention away from the smell." He shrugged. It did distract me from the smell for a second.

"There are other ways to get my attention away from that. No dead kittens involved." Alex leaned down close to my ear.

"I don't think kissing you in front of the entire class would be something you want." His words stunned me, leaving my mouth opening and closing like a fish. Now that was a response I wasn't expecting.

Alex leaned back in his chair, a growing smirk on his face. I had no clue how to respond to that but thankfully Mr. Roden walked into the classroom. With one last flash of a smirk, Alex turned his attention to the teacher. I had to force my head to the front of the classroom as the image of Alex kissing me came to mind.

"Okay class, as you can probably tell we are going to start our first dissecting today." Mr. Roden said enthusiastically. A few groans echoed around the room at his words.

"Don't worry its nothing big, this time." My eyes widened at 'this time'. What the hell does that mean? "Today we will be dissecting sheep brains!" I knew my face had turned pale when Alex laughed under his breath at me. (I actually did this in my high school anatomy class, I even have pictures of it on my Facebook/Insta :D Wasn't as gross as I thought it would be but it did stink)

"It's not as gross as it sounds. You and the person next to you are partners, you will both fill out this worksheet while dissecting the brain. At the end of class you will turn them in. Understood?"

With that the class went into motion, getting up to grab the worksheet and the sheep brains.

"I'll get the stuff?" I just nodded staying in my seat. I really didn't want to do this. Cutting into some animals brain? Like why! I can't even handle seeing blood, how is this going to work?

While I was busy freaking out internally Alex was grabbing everything we needed. As soon as he set down the tray holding the sheep brains my eyes went right for it. My eyes widened in surprise. It didn't look as gross as I thought it would.

"Here you can handle the worksheet if you want." Alex handed over the sheet along with a pair of gloves, before putting his now gloves on. He had almost an excited look on his face about having to do this. Maybe he is secretly a serial killer.

I turned back to the brains and scrunched my nose up at the horrendous smell. It was the smell that was making the whole thing worse I think.

"You aren't going to pass out on me are you, freckles?" Alex joked.

"No, no. I'm good." I shook my head. I won't pass out in front of Alex or the entire class. That will be something I'll never live down.

Taking the worksheet from Alex I looked it over while putting my own gloves on. Thankfully the sheet wasn't going to be hard but by the sound of it we really needed to look at the brains to answer the questions.

"Lets get started." Alex rubbed his hands together.

"There is something wrong with you." I commented shaking my head at how excited he was about this whole thing.

"Be careful I do have a scalpel. Maybe I'll give into my murderer tendencies." He teased. I rolled my eyes but a grin tugged at my lips.

We got to work on the assignment, me asking questions from the sheet while Alex touched the sheep brain. The longer I sat there the less it started to smell and I even moved closer to see the brains.

"Here." Alex handed me the scalpel and moved the tray closer to me. I looked at his hand and back to his face. "You keep looking at it so try it." He nudged the scalpel towards me.

Biting my bottom lip I hesitated. My curiosity got the best of me as I grabbed it from his hand. I tried not to cringe as I slowly mimicked what Alex was doing earlier. I was surprised at how hard it actually was and not as weird as I thought it would be.

"See not so bad." Alex sent me a smile as he hovered over my shoulder.

The rest of class Alex and I took turns dissecting the sheep brains and filling out the worksheet. Every few minutes he'd say something stupid that would make me laugh and inwardly wondered how I survived this class without him before.

If I hadn't met Alex I would most likely be doing this myself since I had no one to sit by. No one wanted to partner with the 'school-slut'. I had gotten use to being by myself in school and having no one to talk to. I hadn't known exactly how lonely it was until Alex, Derek and Olivia came into my life. Now I wasn't sure I could go back to that.

Minutes after we filled out the last question the bell rang. Impressed with our project, and the fact that Alex actually did most of the work, I gathered all of our stuff while Alex returned the brains to Mr. Roden.

I found myself staring at him as he waited to put the stuff away. Even the back of him was attractive. His dark hair getting kinda long and curling around his ears. His shoulders nice and wide underneath his jacket. I didn't miss the appreciative glances every other girl in class were giving him either.

I didn't really understand how he was single. Not when almost every girl wanted him. Alex and Mitch were probably two of the most sought after guys in school. The mystery of Alex drew all the girls in, and the popularity and looks of Mitch drew in the others.

"Staring after him makes you look more pathetic." A voice spoke beside me. My head snapped to the side. Chelsea, one of Rebecca's cronies, stood next to me staring at Alex.

"Excuse me?"

"You look pathetic staring longingly at him. The only reason he even talks to you is because he feels sorry for you. That or he wants sleep with the schools slut." Chelsea said, her eyes cutting towards me. "You flatter yourself thinking he likes you."

While she spoke I stared at her. I never really looked at Chelsea before. Never noticed that she was actually quite pretty. Her dark hair was loosely curled around her shoulders, she had a small pointy nose that fit her slightly round face with high cheek bones. In fact I'd almost say she was prettier than Rebecca.

I knew a few things about Chelsea, you kind of have to when the person bullies you constantly. So I knew she had a younger sister in 6th grade, that her mom was a nurse and her dad a firefighter. It looked like she had a good family and life, so I wasn't sure why she was always so rude.

Maybe it was all Rebecca yet she's here doing this on her own. Almost like she had nothing better to do then try and make my life hell. A wave of pity washed over me as I looked at her. Pity that somehow she got stuck with Rebecca who honestly just used her and had her under her thumb. Chelsea could do much better yet she stays alongside Rebecca.

"Don't worry he'll drop you in no time." She continued. I turned back to look at Alex. I looked at him just in time for him to glance over his shoulder and flash me a grin. That grin made my heart flutter in my chest.

"Okay." I finally responded to her. From the corner of my eye I could see she was shocked that I responded and how I did.

"What?"

"Okay." I shrugged.

"What the hell does that mean?" She demanded.

"You don't know anything about me or about Alex, so its easy for you to stand there and say things you don't know anything about. But it doesn't matter. You can say whatever you want because I don't care. Not anymore." I noticed Alex was finished putting our stuff away and was making his way back to me. Looking over at Chelsea I looked her right in the face.

"If you want someone to pity you may want to look at yourself first." Leaving it at that I hiked my bag up higher on my shoulder and my head held high I walked towards Alex.

"Were you talking with Chelsea Larson?" Alex asked, raising an eyebrow.

"I wouldn't say talking." He placed a hand on my arm, drawing my attention to him.

"Did she say anything rude to you? If so I'll go back there and tell her to kindly fuck off." I grinned at the serious tone and the narrowing of his eyes.

"No need for that." I shook my head, although I'd like to see that happen.

"So what did she say?" He asked as we entered Art classroom. I watched him as he lead us towards our table and placed his backpack on the table. If Chelsea would have said those things to me the other day I would have believed her. But after the last few days with Alex I didn't. I couldn't see Alex only being with me for pity. That wasn't who he was.

"It was nothing." I waved him off. Alex stared at me as if waiting for more, but I wasn't going to tell him what she said. It didn't matter anyways. "Thank you for offering though." I sent him a smile.

"Just let me know if you ever need these muscles." He smirked, lifting his arm to flex. Even with his jacket on I swear you could see the muscle.

"What muscle?" I asked, making a show of looking at his arm in confusion. "I'll ask Derek if I ever need." Holding back a smile was difficult at the look that appeared on his face.

I looked away and took out my sketchbook and pencil.

"Did you just say I'm weak?" From the corner of my eye I saw him raise an eyebrow at me.

"If the shoe fits." I shrugged, fighting back a smirk.

"Oh its on." At his cryptic tone I looked over at him and found him smirking at me. Before I could say anything more Mrs. Benell walked in. Why did I have a feeling Alex was up to something?

* * * * * * * * * * 

"Do you guys want to go grab something to eat?" Olivia asked as the four of us headed to the parking lot.

"I could huge a huge hamburger right now." Derek practically moaned.

"Sure. I have a bit before I have to pick up Harper from school. Freckles?" They all turned to look at me.

"Sorry I have to work."

"Boo." Derek groaned.

"Sorry." I scrunched up my nose. Before I didn't mind going to work, in fact I loved it, still do. But I couldn't deny the small sad feeling of not being able to go eat with everyone.

"It's okay we can eat another time." Olivia nudged Derek's side.

"But we can still go right?" He immediately turned on the puppy dog eyes. I grinned as Olivia shook her head and nodded. Glancing down at my phone I sighed.

"I better go. My shift starts in ten minutes."

"I'll text you later." Sending me a smile Liv hooked her arm through Derek's and headed for his truck. I could hear Derek going on about how hungry he was as they walked off.

"Do you need a ride?" Alex offered.

"It's okay I brought my car with me today." I gestured over my shoulder. The two of us walked side by side towards my car, Alex's hand grazing mine with every step.

"Text me when you get home?" My heart fluttered. No ones ever wanted to make sure I got home safe before.

"I will." I nodded while pulling my bottom lip between my teeth. My eyes widened as Alex reached up and suddenly grabbed my lip, pulling it away from my teeth.

"I will kiss you if you do that again." His tone dropped and his eyes seemed to get darker. My breathing hitched at his words. I stared back at him as my mouth dried.

I started to breathe a bit heavier as his thumb slowly and softly grazed across my lip. I vaguely noticed that Alex seemed to be breathing just heavy.

We stayed like that for a good minute before Alex seemed to snap out of it. His thumb left my lip but stayed cupping the side of my jaw. I waited with bated breath as he slowly leaned in, his lips finally touching mine.

Immediately it felt like my body was on fire, just from a simple kiss. I kissed him back as his lips molded perfectly with mine. Alex pulled back a moment later, leaving me there panting softly. I swear each kiss gets better and better.

My eyes fluttered open and found Alex gazing down at me with a soft look. His thumb brushed across my cheek.

"Have a good day at work."

With one last smile at me, Alex stepped back his hand dropping from my face. I instantly missed it and wanted to kiss him again.

Almost in a daze I stood there watching as Alex sent me a wink before heading over to his motorcycle. My hand came up to touch my lips that were tingling. A grin tugged at them as I quickly turned around and got in my car. A wave of giddiness washed over me and it took everything not to squeal like a little girl.

I forced myself to start the car and drive out of the parking lot, the entire time reliving our kiss. By time I made it to work I still had a stupid grin on my face. Alex knew how to make a lasting impression that's for sure. I knew without a doubt I'm gonna be thinking about that kiss the rest of the day.

"Good afternoon Helen." I greeted as I placed my bag behind the counter.

"Someone is in a good mood." Helen greeted.

"It's a wonderful day." I grinned. Helen raised an eyebrow at me and leaned against the counter.

"It's Monday, you are never this happy on a Monday."

"Well then today is an exception." I grabbed the stack of books that needed to be re-shelved and moved around the counter.

"Sounds like things with Alex have worked out." Helen commented. My cheeks flamed up but the giddy smile didn't fade. I didn't say anything and got to work on putting the stack of books away. Behind me Helen just 'hmm' but let it slide.

The next couple of hours passed by fairly quickly. Since it's been a few days since I've been in a lot of new books came in and been returned and needed to be put back. I helped a few people that came in but spent most of the time reading the back of books and hiding some behind the counter to take home.

I was currently leaning against one of the shelves reading a bit of a book when Helen suddenly called out my name. Biting back a groan at the fact I had to stop reading, I tucked my finger to hold my place and headed for the front of the store.

I was busy walking with my head down I didn't notice who was standing up near the desk with Helen.

"You have a visitor." At Helen's words I glanced up and paused mid-step. Standing there next to Helen was Alex. As soon as he saw me a smile appeared on his face and he lifted his hands up, showing a bag filled with something.

"You didn't eat lunch so I thought I'd bring you something." The cute little shrug he did made my chest tighten.

"You two can go eat in the back if you want." Helen broke the silence.

I didn't even try to argue with her. With an even bigger smile than before I walked towards Alex beyond giddy that he was even here. Helen sent me a smirk as I walked past but I chose to ignore it and lead Alex towards the back room.

"You didn't have to bring me anything." I said once we were alone.

"You didn't eat anything." He shrugged. "So I grabbed something from the diner for you."

It felt like my heart could explode at any moment at the thoughtful act. No one's ever brought me food before or thought about me enough to do so.

"I wasn't sure what you'd want so I went the safe route and got you a hamburger with fries and," Alex grabbed the drink off the counter and held it out. "a milkshake."

He almost had an anxious look on his face like he thought he got me the wrong thing. Even if I didn't like hamburgers I would have still ate it because of the gesture and how sweet he was being.

"It's perfect." I beamed. Just the thought of Monroe's hamburgers made my mouth water. I hadn't even noticed how hungry I was until right now.

I wasted no time in taking a seat and grabbed the boxes of food. I stuffed three fries in my mouth before reaching for the hamburger. My mind was so focused on food I almost forgot Alex was sitting next to me watching as I took a huge bite of my burger.

I did a little happy dance in my seat as I ate. A chuckle off to my side broke me out of my food haze, making me realize that Alex has been watching me the whole time. Meeting his amused gazed I ducked my head and quickly swallowed the food in my mouth.

"Thank you." I finally said once my mouth was clear.

"You're welcome." He grinned, seeming not at all fazed at how I was stuffing my face. "For someone so small you eat a lot." He commented, leaning back in his chair.

"Must run in the family." I shrugged sipping my milkshake. "My brother use to eat so much we could barely keep the cabinets stocked. We'd seriously eat and not even five minutes later he was hungry again; no joke."

"I bet you miss him."

Feeling a thump form in my throat I kept my gaze down and nodded.

"He's my best friend. Before he left we did almost everything together. He wasn't one of those brothers that never wanted me around, he'd always bring me to his practices or to hang out with his friends. With my parents always gone Trent was the only person that was around. He didn't have to always include me but he did."

"Your parents....have they always been so focused on work?" Alex gently asked. I could tell he was trying to not pry or bring too much of the sensitive topic up.

"When we were younger they weren't. I was five when we moved here and Trent was eight. My parents had gotten really good jobs at the hospital here and it worked out well so they could be home with us. It wasn't until about middle school they started to work more and more.

"When Trent turned 16 and I was 13 they each got offered high positions at the hospital in Portland, so they bought a condo there and said they'd stay there while on shift and then come home on the weekends." I twirled my straw in my milkshake as I spoke.

"Well weekends turned to one day a week to nothing. They transfer us money for groceries and stuff so it became Trent's job to take care of the two of us." I tried to make it sound like I didn't mind but I was pretty sure Alex saw through it.

"I'm sorry, I didn't-" He started to say but I quickly cut him off.

"You don't need to apologize." I shook my head at him. "Lets not bring down the mood." I suggested.

"Okay." Alex nodded. "But you can talk to me if you ever want." Those gorgeous grey eyes stared at me with since sincerity it almost took my breath away.

Right then my feelings for Alex doubled. How much I actually liked him hit me like a ton of bricks. In just a short amount of time I've somehow managed to fall for Alex Kinley hard.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Hey guys....okay fine you guys are free to come to my house with pitchforks to kill me. I know I've made you guys wait a long time for this update (really long time). I ended up feeling....burnt out. If I did write I hated what I had, and then I couldn't write. Then I ended up writing "Second Chances" which I LOVE but it since I wrote it in a week I felt so burnt out and tired. So I guess that's my excuse for not updating for awhile. 

HOWEVER I have a HUGE surprise for you guys.....A SECOND CHAPTER! Yep read that right. If you continue on there is another chapter up for you to read. I thought since I made you wait so long why not make you wait another week and update two chapter at once. It is a slightly different chapter so just beware.

I hope you guys are all being safe and healthy with this Virus! Please be smart and STAY HOME. The sooner we all stay home and stop spreading this virus the sooner things can go back to normal. Please don't go out if you don't need to. Even if you wont get sick you can infect others (your grandparents, cousins, parents, family members). DO NOT be that person who goes out cause they don't care or are tired of being home. We all are. So be safe and stay healthy! 

If you are bored at home there are plenty of books here on Wattpad to check out! I have good books in my Reading Lists on my profile if you wanna check them out. And if you have yet to check out "Second Chances" you should! It's a complete book so you can breeze on through it :P

Anyways, I love you guys! Thank you for the love and support. Can't do it without you. Let me know what you think of the chapters as always

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-Ken