The Story of Us

Chapter 22

*Luke's POV*

I breathed softly as I walked into the cafeteria. My mind was still racing with the thought of Tyler's demands. I walked pasted Ashton and Tyler, and keep walking towards Leah and Mikey. I didn't have time to deal with anymore of this - not today.

I sat down next to them, as I set my backpack down on the floor. I tugged at my sweater sleeves, as Leah turned to me.

"So, what was that about?" She asked as she eyeballed Tyler. If looks could kill..

"Nothing," I lied. If they knew, they would never let me go through with Tyler's demands. "He just apologized to me for punching me, and I apologized for...provoking him."

"Mate, why he hit you in the first place?" Mikey asked as he turned his glance from Tyler to me.

"Like I said..I provoked him," I replied. I didn't need to tell them that Tyler knew.

"Wait a minute..what did you say?" Leah asked.

I sighed, as I laughed nervously avoiding eye contact. "What's with the third degree? Look, I just brought up something about him. It's personal.."

They looked at each other with a confused look. They knew I'd never say something like that unless I was provoked. I chewed my lip, as I glanced around the room.

"What are you not telling us?" Michael asks. I looked down messing with the hem of my sweater, as I stayed silent.

"Nothing. I promise I've told you everything," They must have known I was lying.

"Whatever it is, just-" Leah began before she was interrupted by the intercom crackling.

"Would all students please report the assembly in the auditorium. The assembly will begin in 5 minutes. Thank you," Principal Thompson announced over the intercom.

We grabbed our backpacks as we began to head to the auditorium. We made our way through the crowded hallway, as we entered the large auditorium. I had to admit, I barely came in here. It mostly had to do with my stage fright. I always pretending to be sick or something during band performances, so I wouldn't have to get on stage.

We sat in one of the first few rows, as the white noise of talking filled the room. As soon as everyone got settled, Thompson came out standing by the podium, as his voice came through the microphone.

"Welcome back to another great year at Washington Heights High School! Our assembly on Monday was cancelled due to technical difficulties, but now we are back on and ready for a great, new year!" He said in a cheery voice, as he smiled brightly at all of us.

Michael let out a laugh as he pretended to be puking.

"This year I have a few announcements to make. First of all, as most of you know, we will have our senior trip to a country that is randomly drawn. The trip has completely funded by fund raisers the seniors have put on! And this years country is..." He said as he drew a small piece of paper out of his pocket. "Italy! Congratulations seniors!"