Once Upon A Bus Ride

Chapter 56: I'm Not Just A Pretty Face

"So what are we doing about the bastard?" Aaron asked, referring to Cole.

Shannon's smile faded. "Nothing. I don't want it to become a big deal."

"It is a big deal," I said, hoping to change her mind. "Shannon he tried to-"

"I know what he tried to do Morgan," she sharply interrupted. "Just let me deal with it okay? I know you're both trying to help but I'd rather just keep it to myself. We'll be out of high school no time and he'll be out of my life."

I sighed, giving in. "Okay."

Aaron patted her shoulder. "Hey, it's okay. We'll handle it however you want us to."

"Where have you been anyway?" she asked him.

My eyes widened a bit as he was searching for an explanation.

"Uh..."

"Justin," I interposed. "He was at Justin's."

"Right," Aaron followed. "With Justin."

"Oh, well just tell him to come over then," she said.

"Huh?"

Shannon chuckled. "Justin? You said you'd have to go back, just tell him to come here."

Aaron looked at me, and then back at her. "Right I will."

He walked past us towards the kitchen and I smiled sheepishly at Shannon.

"I'll be right back."

I turned around and followed Aaron, and saw him sighing to himself.

"It's okay," I said. "She's got me to keep her company. Just make up some excuse."

"I could," he began. "Or I could just tell her."

I was quite surprised. "Really? You don't mind more people knowing your not so little secret?"

He sighed. "I do, but then again I can tell she's shaken up and needs her friends. I know what a burden lying all the time is and I don't want you to do that to her, not for me."

I smiled a little at that.

"Plus, you trust her and I trust you so..."

I chuckled and went to place a kiss on his lips. "Thank you."

"Did you guys leave me out there so you could get all hot and heavy on April's countertop? A little unsanitary don't you think Smith?"

I quickly backed away from Aaron and laughed at Shannon's comment.

"And she's back," Aaron remarked. "I'll go take a shower, make us breakfast, and then I've got something to show you."

Shannon arched an eyebrow. "Me?"

"Yes, you," Aaron answered as he walked away. "I'll be right back."

Once he left, Shannon turned to me. "What's that all about?"

I shrugged innocently. "No idea, but I guess we'll find out."

~~~

"Ow," Shannon groaned after she bumped into the wall beside her. "You know, if you don't want me to see where I'm going the least you could do is steer me in the right direction."

"Sorry," I chuckled, holding her hand and pulling her so she didn't run into a plant.

Aaron only shook his head, and then opened the door to the studio once we got there.

"What on earth is in this tiny store that is such a big deal?" Shannon asked.

"This," I said, before pulling the blindfold off her eyes.