Broken Strings

Chapter 3

Skunk has such nerve. He just started following me and then admitted that he didn't think of me as a real person. I thought there was something in him but it's clear to me now that his cool hair is just a cover for his shitty personality. I finally arrive to my next class after the very long detour. There were 2 spots left in the middle of the almost full class so I take one. Skunk walks in. I forgot we had almost all of the same classes. He looks around and sees the only empty seat is next to me. I see his eyes almost fill with fear. I didn't know I could make someone scared? That's a terrible feeling. He looks around awkwardly trying to find another seat but he soon gives up. As he approaches the chair, I give him a fake smile and he just averts his eyes. He's smart, I'll give him that.

Class begins soon after. I decide to pretend like I was really into the lesson. I take notes in my everything binder and participate in discussions. I'm actually learning in a class, it's kind of crazy. I like to pretend I'm smart and I generally play the part well. I don't have to pay attention in my classes but I still make A's.

Even with the new knowledge being thrown at me, I still have enough mental capacity to think about what Skunk might be thinking. Is he looking at me? I don't allow myself to turn to him and find out. I look straight ahead and write what the professor is writing on his ancient chalkboard and try to keep focused. That didn't last long, though. I look at the clock, there's still an hour left in the class. I can't do it, I can't. Skunk and I sit a good distance away from the front of the class and have multiple rows of people blocking any noise that will come out of my mouth. I look over from the corner of my eye to see Skunk looking down, he's not writing or looking forward. He just sits there, looking at the base of the chair in front of him. I swallow and turn my head to him. He must have sensed that I turned to his and he unlocks his gaze to meet mine. I've never seen eyes so sad.

"You know I didn't mean what I said as a direct insult? It was just a generalization," I try to comfort his sad eyes but they hold steadfast.

"I'm sorry that I said anything at all. I was just trying to be nice," he turns his head to the front, "Apparently I can't even do that right." I try to say something to comfort him but I can tell that I lost his attention. I was so mad at him 20 minutes ago, why am I so sympathetic now?

The remainder of class goes by quickly to my surprise. In addition, the professor dismisses the class a little early for "personal reasons". Whatever, I'm not complaining. I practically chase Skunk out the door and stop him a few feet outside the door. I place my hand gently on his upper arm. "I'm sorry for venting to you. I mean, I hardly know you and I feel like I made you think I hated you. I don't hate you and... I don't know I'm just sorry," I say to him, my hand still on his arm.

He nods and quietly offers, "You have nothing to be sorry for. I'm the one who's sorry and you're the one who's supposed to accept or deny the apology." My hand limply falls off his arm and he takes that as a cue to leave.

He turns to try and walk away but I call out after him, "Then I accept your apology." He stops and turns around. His smile causes my face to light up.

"Do you have any more classes today?" he asks.

I smile and check my phone, 3:49. "I believe I'm done for the day, what about yourself?" I inquire. I take a little step forward to decrease the previously large gap between us.

He smiles a mischievous smile, "I'm done as well."

I smile and return the mischievous smile, "Are you asking me out?"

He laughs and replies, "How about a nice trip to the town record store?"

My smile fades slightly but not completely, "Never been, it sounds like fun." He smiles a little wider and offers me an arm. He's so cute, Jesus Christ. I can't believe I hated him. I link my arm with his and we walk in the direction of Main Street.