Hard Boy ✔️

74

- because i liked a boy; Sabrina Carpenter -

Aurora Holland

Christmas break was over, meaning we all had to go back to school. Although I was excited to get the last semester of my senior year over with, I couldn't help but feel a little upset that I had to go back.

I spent the majority of the break with Garrett, and the two of us connected more after New Year's. It was odd, as I wasn't used to having someone drive as long as he did to come see me. I even went and saw him a few times, but it was much harder for me to see him in Arrowway due to me not having my own car.

That being said, now that school's started up again, we don't see each other as much. That doesn't mean we don't talk, however, as he's made it a point to Facetime me once a day, mostly before bed.

I've accidentally fallen asleep a few times on the phone with him, but instead of hanging up or attempting to wake me up, he just falls asleep on the other end. It was kind of cute, in my opinion, as I hadn't gotten to experience something like that before.

Paige did all the time, especially back in Point Prep. She was constantly on the phone with someone, whether it be a phone call or Facetime. Either way, it was often she was talking to someone, whereas I was more alone and never had anyone to call, let alone text.

Garrett's also gone to a few hangouts with the friend group. If they were bothered by his presence or didn't like him, they never said anything which I was glad. Although I think they do favor him, as now when he comes around instead of glares and threats it was jokes and hugs.

Especially with Elijah, which was a completely different switch-up from the day I first met Garrett.

Unfortunately for me, I had joined the PROM committee. Apparently, the night of the New Year's party I told Bailey I'd join and help with the decorations - something I barely remember doing as I'd been so caught up with Carter and Ashley that I just agreed whatever had left her mouth so she'd leave me alone.

After realizing I'd accepted the invitation, I couldn't change my mind. It'd break Bailey's heart, which she didn't deserve since I was the one who said yes in the first place.

I guess something good about joining the committee meant less time being stuck at home. Katherine had gone back to her own house shortly before Christmas break ended, the only reason being that her mother had gotten back from her trip and blew a fuse.

She'd accused Katherine of 'mooching' off of us, which is anything but the truth. Instead of arguing, Katherine just packed her bags and headed back home, thanking me for being so kind to let her stay over break.

It was a little depressing without her over as much as she had been before, as I'd gotten used to her basically living with us. But Katherine was only a junior in high school - a year younger than me - and she still had to listen to anything and everything her mother told her to even if it was unfair to her.

That being said, now that Katherine's not around and both sets of grandparents are gone - my mother's back to her usual antics. She's the same as she was before - if not worse - and has been doubling down on her insults toward me. It's just like it was when we first moved to Riverway, and I couldn't help but despise her more than I had before.

"Rory, are you listening?" Bailey asked, catching my attention.

I blinked a few times as I looked around, seeing the entire committee staring at me. I just nodded as my face began to heat up, clearing my throat. "Just tired. Keep going."