Just Friends

Chapter 14: New Student

Slapping myself awake, I quickly do my homework before school starts. I meant to do them yesterday, but my mind was elsewhere. Now I'm wondering how I'll focus in school.

     Soon, the bell rings. Luckily, I finished my homework by writing down random crap. The teacher doesn't check for corrections. She only checks for completion. Luck is on my side today. Sighing, I set my pencil down. I look up to see the teacher walk in with an unfamiliar student.

     The student is a boy. His blonde hair is in a quiff. He's wearing a white baggy shirt, blue ripped jeans, and black Converse. His green eyes gaze at everyone, sending chills down our spines. My eyes widen as he looks at me. His look was so familiar; I obviously knew him. I can't pinpoint where I knew him.

     "Okay class, today I'd like to introduce you to a new student. Please, let us know about you," the teacher feigns a smile. She's always like that; once you know her, she'll let you feel her wrath.

     The boy stares straight at me and introduces himself. "The name's Jack. I used to live in this town before, but now here I am." 

     The teacher awkwardly clears her throat and gestures him to sit by me. I watch Jack walk up to the empty seat next to mine. I swear I've seen him before.

     Jack turns to me, not smiling. Finally, he speaks. "It's good to see you again, Colette."

"Is that really you!?" I exclaim, wide-eyed.

     I gave Jack a tour around the school. Right now, Jack is sitting in front of me at the cafeteria. Clary would be here, but she was busy with something. I asked Jack if I knew him. Jack was completely baffled by my question and gave me a hint.

     Flashback: 

     "I'm open!" I waved my arms in the air. 

     Although, no avail. I was playing basketball with the boys, but they wouldn't pass the ball to me. It made me angry that they thought I was weak and couldn't play. All because of my gender!

     Before another round could start, my classmate interrupted. I looked over to see Jack. He smiled kindly at me and said, "I'd like to join Colette's team!"

     Boys muttered something before agreeing. I heard their whispers, saying that they felt sorry for Jack because I'm a girl.

     Soon, the game started. I ran across the court, free from anyone guarding me. Jack had the ball and two people were double-teaming him. I knew why they would double-team Jack: he was the best at basketball. Although, I didn't know what he'd do next.

     I froze as Jack looked straight into my eyes. No one noticed his gaze until he passed the ball towards my path. I acted immediately, determination written in my eyes. Once I felt the leather against my palm, I shoot a three-pointer. As soon as I heard the satisfying swish of the net, I turned around to the middle of the court.

     "Nice shot!" Jack ran next to me.

     I smiled brightly, butterflies tickling my stomach. "Thanks, Jack!"

     "I'm glad you remembered," Jack smiles. This time, I see that little boy from elementary school who passed the ball towards my way. I also see the boy I had a crush on back at elementary school, but those feelings were long gone.

     Before I can ask about how he was, someone interrupted my conversation. "Who's this?"

     I look up to see Dakota with furrowed eyebrows. He was staring straight at Jack. Dakota surprises me by this; he usually never gets angry. He's a positive guy.

     Excitement filled my eyes as I introduce Dakota to Jack. "This is Jack. Don't you remember him from elementary? I told you about him and now he's back!"

     Dakota's eyes darken and speaks, "he's the one you had a crush on?"

     I feel the blood rush up to my cheeks. I act fast and stutter, "n-not a-anymore!" Why would he say that?

     Jack's eyes widen, as does his smile. His light green eyes gaze into my brown ones. Immediately, I felt like the only one in this world. I almost felt guilty for forgetting Dakota.

     "I-It was a long time ago. The feeling is l-long gone," I shake my head while defending myself.

     Jack's heart warming smile falters. He replies in a monotone voice. My eyes widen at his words.

     "I guess I'll have to make you fall for me again."