I stared, shocked and beyond annoyed. What did she want now? What could she want now? She destroyed our friendship, took my boyfriend, what was left? Annoyed, I sighed heavily, deleting it as well, noting I wouldn't respond or do anything until tomorrow. For all I knew she was just bribing her sister to annoy me. With that, I shut the small gadget and sat it on the small table beside my bed, tossing the covers down then over me in a huff, waiting until I drifted to sleep.

Sleep wasn't in my vocabulary. I had tossed and turned all night, flashes of dreams in my heard, something along the lines of random people chasing me in a dark alley. I didn't know where the images had come from, seeing as how I never went to town after dark, not to mention the fact there weren't any alleys I found inviting. When the sun streamed through my blinds I knew it was time to get dressed. I rushed into the bathroom, relieved to escape the atrocities of the night.

I prepped with speed in the bathroom, putting on my make up and tugging up my hair, then slipped into a favored red skirt and white button down shirt. I hurried to my room as I tugged up my black thigh high socks, ramming my foot into my massive heels, hurrying out the door, book bag in hand.

Breakfast was fast, eating as if I were in a marathon, staring at the clock, waiting until the hand just touched the 7, then bolted out the door, racing with the bus, noting it was only 5 minutes early today instead of 10.

The ride was invigoration as usual, and I did what I could to ignore the students who gossiped here and there. It annoyed me how slow the bus was going as it pulled up along the drop off area at a snails' pace. I wasn’t sure why I was eager this morning. My mind quickly recalled the text messages and e-mails of last night. I frowned, pushing through a few students, noting I would not be swayed by Robin if she tried to befriend me. For all I knew, this was another of her and Eric's master plans to make me look more pathetic. That of course was humanly impossible, seeing as how I already felt pretty darn pathetic.

I exited the bus and hurried through the halls, doing my best to avoid Robin and Eric's favored hang out spots. I rushed along the other lockers, avoiding students as best I could, ripping my locker open. Of course, it refused. I cursed mentally, looking to the ceiling , shaking my fist, before beginning to tug at the lock. After a few tries it opened, sending loud clanging noise throughout the halls, getting the attention of students and teachers alike.

I shrugged, facing my locker now, beginning to empty the contents of my book bag, watching as they poured all over the hallway floor below. A few students passed, pointing and laughing.

...mother father... I thought, sighing heavily as I knelt, starting to gather the papers up. Sure, point and laugh, don't help or anything I thought, the urge to chuck my monster sized text books at them overwhelming.

I had gathered a good deal of the papers, reaching for a pile to my left, when a snow white hand appeared, the icy fingers brushing against my own.

I gasped, not just at the cold, but at the realization of it all...and cursed mentally.

I took a moment to debate my words, wondering if it was best to stay silent or expel my stream of profanities I had been saving all morning.

"Having a bit of a morning?" sang the melodic voice, breaking the silence.

"Good morning....Matt..." I spoke, biting my lower lip before hand, using every ounce of self control I had to not scream at him.

I didn't raise my head, but I could tell he was staring at me, as he often did, knew so because his hand had stopped for a moment, then continued on, gathering the papers about us. I stood, spotting the teacher nearing us, saw it as a good excuse to escape.

"Matt, that was very nice of you! Isn't he a polite young man Ms. Marie?" asked my geometry teacher, beaming at the star student to my right.

I bit my lip for a moment before forcing a smile and nodding.

"Yes sir, he is." I managed, noting my heavy sarcasm. Luckily for me, Matt was the only one who caught it, trembling some beside me as he chuckled.

We entered the room, Matt fast on my heels. I almost stopped short just to get him to give me some space...but didn't, just tossing my things on the desk, then slouched down in my seat. Matt was already in his seat by the time I sat down. I crossed my elbows on the desktop, resting my chin atop them mumbling into my arm, caught Matt out the corner of my eye, his lips curling into a smile.

The lesson today was horrid and I couldn't find the words to even begin to describe the homework. I sighed, noting Cory was a math genius. I would simply bribe him with candy and get the answers from him. I didn't feel like working today, my mind was elsewhere...

Speaking of which, I scanned the room, noted Robin and Eric more then cozy at the opposite end. I rolled my eyes, wondering if the text messages were just some sick delusion of mine, perhaps wishful thinking. I turned my attention from them, staring out the window, the sky outside grey and hazy, like it would rain.

The bell rang then, causing me to near leap from my seat. The teacher and several students gawked for a moment, perhaps thinking I had twitches. I sighed inwardly, annoyed by my jumpiness. Quickly I exited the room with my things, could literally feel Matt behind me.

My locker was within reach and I rushed to it, ripping it open, tossing in my first book and replacing it with my next, shutting the metal tin quickly, jumping once more as vivid blue eyes caught my own.

"For the love of all that is Magical!" I exclaimed, nearing tossing my books across the hall.

Matt stood, frozen, his lip twitching some as he fought off a smile.

"You enjoy that don't you?" I asked, throughly annoyed, trying to compose myself.

"Enjoy what?" he asked innocently.

"Me. Jumping." I stated.

He stood, eyebrows raised.

I sighed, glaring some now.

"I bet you get some sick thrill from it don't you?" I added, Matt blinking some, looking shocked and like he was fighting off a laugh.

"Yup. Just as I thought." I stated rolling my eyes as I headed to my next class.

I stopped once I reached the door, spinning on my heels to face him, blinking slightly as I realized how close we were, our faces inches apart.

We stared at each other for an immeasurable amount of time, Matt's eyes holding my own, never wavering. I started to get dizzy and it was then I realized it was because I wasn't breathing. I caught my breath then, Matt seemingly amused again as I glared at him.

"Goodbye Matt." I said, noting I was leaving. He watched me as I strode into the room, our eyes meeting once more. Then he was gone.

I wasn't sure what exactly had happened, only knew I had been paralyzed, that and I was pretty much standing in the midst of the room, students looking at me, the teacher doing the same.

"Miss Marie, you have a desk, I suggest you use it please." stated the teacher, getting my attention. I blinked, flushing nodding, as I hurried to my favored back seat, mentally cursing Matt. He was planning this, he had to be.

The class crawled by as usual and somewhere along the line Miyon had managed to slink into the back and talk with me. I gave her the run down on geometry, though made it perfectly clear I was not he person to get answers from. She took the hint, before changing the subject to, none other then the Ichida boys.

"Did you see Matt today?" she asked, sounding too optimistic.

"I always see Matt." I sighed, annoyed. She blinked.

"Did you see Lark?" I offered, trying to turn the attention to her.

She beamed.

"Yes, I said hi and he said hi back, it was magical!" she sang, looking dazed.

I stared, shocked for a moment. Lark was capable of speaking to someone as bubbly as Miyon? Why was he always glaring at me then? I didn't bother going there, the bell had rang.

Once again, I hurried though the busy halls, swearing under my breath until I reached my locker. I tugged it open, searching through the piles of books and papers until I located my Biology book and notes. I was about to slam the locker shut but stopped, closing it slowly, waiting for it to reveal Matt. He wasn't there. I blinked, shrugging as I headed towards the classroom.

I entered in silence, ignoring the freshmen who begged for the answers to yesterdays homework assignment. I took my seat, flipping though my notebook, when arms embraced me from behind.

"Good morning!" sang a male, crushing me now.

"Every thing is bweatiful!" he added, my oxygen starting to cut off.

"Cory, you son of a--" I began, elbowing him in the ribs.

"Owww!" he whined, releasing me.

"The hell are you on?" I asked, shaking my head.

"Kool aid!" he exclaimed. I rolled my eyes.

Cory was hyper today which seemed a little unusual. Miyon seemed to be feeding off it, along with Hiro. I wasn't sure how or when but they all had magically made their way to my table. I began to rummage though my book bag when I heard a pencil hit the floor. I sighed, kneeling to pick it up, a blur before me now, jolting me into an upright position.

Before me stood none other then Matt, his eyes such a bright blue today, were beaming as his lips curled into a crooked smile, his snowy hand extended towards me some, my pencil locked in the vices that were his fingers.

For a moment I stood, silent, not sure if my eyes were playing tricks or if he had really moved that fast. All I knew was that the speed of it all had scared the heck out of me. His smiled stayed in place, even as my own shocked one began to relax. Finally I was able to roll my eyes swiping the pencil from him.

"Thank you Mr. Star Student." I sang, getting back onto my uneven stool.

"You're very welcome Princess." he added.

I glared at him.

"Aww, you two are too cute!" sang Cory.

I jabbed at him quickly, him dodging.

"Oh, so close Melis, So close!" he sang.

"Cory, go sit down." I huffed, Cory taking the hint as the teacher walked in , clearing his throat.

Hiro tugged at Cory then, the two making their way to Lark, who looked a little more then thrilled at their arrival. Miyon was gone now too, leaving only Matt and myself again.

I wasn’t sure what had happened during the first half of class, only knew it was all a blur, my mind still focused on Matt's unexplainable speed. By the time I realized what was happening in class, the assignment was already given and I found myself having to communicate with Matt, something I did not want to do.

Matt, polite as ever, gave me the assignment and few answers to boot. I thanked him as best I could, turning my attention to my right, noted Robin and Eric were whispering about something, Robin looking serious, Eric looking, well, like Eric. I rolled my eyes, focusing on the other side of the room.

At one point my elbow slipped, skidding accross the desk some, hitting Matt's arm.

"I'm sorry." I stated.

Matt froze for a brief second, blinking slightly with a nod, his attention on his work. A short while later my arm began to throb, as if I hadn't hit Matt but had just elbowed a brick wall. I winced slightly, holding my now throbbing joint, Matt blinking a bit.

"Are you alright?" he asked, looking concerned, but also wary.

"Yeah..." I spoke, looking to him now, looking over his Lilith frame, noted he was average built, not overly muscular.

"Do you work out?" I blurted, noted that probably sounded like a cheesy pick up line. I could tell that's how he took it too, his lips flicking once again as he composed his face.

"Why do you say that?" he asked, eyes wary still.

I stared for a moment, raising my chin some as I spoke.

"Because, I barely bumped my elbow against you and it feels like it's broken." I stated, Matt perfectly still as he took it all in.

"Perhaps you hit your funny bone." he suggested, shuffling his papers now.

"Trust me, this isn't my funny bone." I assured him, noting the red bulge that was my elbow.

He sighed, breathing deeply through his nose before he faced me, his eyes capturing my own.

"Would you like me to look at it?" he asked.

I, like the idiot I am, just stared, jaw gapping, my thoughts scattered like a pile of leaves.

Quickly, I snapped my jaw into place, narrowing my eyes.

"Why? Are you a doctor too?" I asked, being sure to make him sound perfect and for me to sound annoyed.

He chuckled after that, and I blinked, wondering if I had missed some inside joke.

"Ah, no, but my father does have some medical history. Maybe you chipped a bone or something." he suggested.

I rolled my eyes.

"I'm so sure." I sighed, gasping lightly as icy hands worked their way up my arm, his fingers gently brushing mine aside, revealing my now tender elbow.

He studied it a moment, turning it a bit here and there, then took it between his hands, holding it there.

For a moment I thought I would faint, not just because Mr. Perfect was touching me, but because his hands were so cold, it made me wonder if he was even alive. Then again, I couldn’t complain, the cold on my elbow did feel good, the pain of earlier melting away, until I felt nothing at all. After a moment the cold was gone, Matt once again sitting upright looking to me.

"Better?" he asked, breaking the silence.

I stuttered a minute, before shaking my head.

"Yes...thank you..." I breathed, my breath short.

He smiled crookedly at me before turning away, I doing the same, mentally smacking the crap out of myself for feeling so giddy.

What the hell was my problem? Why was I acting like some love struck school girl? Surely I couldn't be falling for someone like...like him!? All prim and proper! It was impossible, impossible I say! I only fall for idiots like Eric...

I shuddered.

Class was over by the time my thoughts had collected themselves and I was once again a blur out the door. It was lunch and for me that meant one thing; solitude. I would be sure to avoid the others at all cost, especially Matt and eat alone as I had been attempting to before I was invited to the dinner party at Miyon and Cory's table.

Quickly I ripped my pathetic excuse for a locker open, tossed in my books and grabbed my small sandwich bag of change. I slammed the locker shut, and almost fell over, Matt leaning perfectly against the cool metal to my right.

"I really, really wish you wouldn't do that." I snapped, beyond annoyed as I began to stomp off.

"Do what?" he asked, his voice innocent but expression amused.

I sighed rolling my eyes, noting I wasn’t going to go there. If he was that oblivious that he needed me to point it out, then it wasn't worth explaining. Odds are he knew what he was doing, knew it bothered me, and in turn, enjoyed it. Why take that away from him? Who cared if I was les mizerable?

I hurried down the hall trying hard to lose Matt in the crowds of students, noted he had practically danced through them, on my heels once more. I cursed as I entered the cafeteria, quickly grabbing the first things my hands touched which happened to be a ham sandwich and a pop. Sadly, a few students were arguing about lunch charges, thus I was stuck in line with Mr. Perfecto.I sighed deeply, waiting anxiously for the line to move, Matt beside me looking perfectly at ease, apparently skipping lunch today, his hands in his pockets.

A few students glanced to us, mostly to Matt really. I couldn't help but glance at him too, noting he was a good head or so taller then me. I caught his eyes on me, quickly darting away, his lips curling into a smile.

I looked away too, mentally smacking myself again, noted he probably thought I was head over heels for him. Ha! Little did he know I was plotting to smother him with my ham sandwich...

The line began to move, much to my relief. I literally threw the money to the lunch lady, Matt muffling a laugh to my right. I grabbed my change and hurried into the halls, hoping he'd leave me be as I made my way towards the back of the school.

Sadly, he did not, pursuing me further, somehow at the door far before me, holding it open. I froze instantly, rocking on my heels some, my hair swaying lightly as if someone had ran past me. I stared at him now, him doing the same, his smile cool...and dangerous.

I took a deep breath before stepping outside, the sunlight instantly enveloping me. I stepped to the picnic table setting my pop down, glancing over my shoulder to Matt who seemed to linger in the shadows of a nearby tree.

I tilted my head slightly, turning my attention to my sandwich suddenly aware of how hungry I really was, wishing I had grabbed some fruit too. I sighed, unwrapping my meal, taking a bite. I felt eyes on me, glanced over my shoulder once more to see Matt still lingering in the shadows, looking like he was about to pounce...

"Afraid of the sunlight?" I asked, trying to break the tense atmosphere.

He chuckled melodically.

"Perhaps."

I frowned some, sipping at my pop.

"What, are you going to melt if you step into the sunlight?" I joked, looking to him once more.

He laughed whole heartedly, shaking his head, tilting it some, rasing his chin slightly.

I blinked, raising my eyebrows.

"Is that a yes?" I asked.

He sighed softly, pushing from the tree now, stepping around the table, taking a seat to my right, showered by the sunlight. I looked to him, noting he was still fully intact, though the sun made his skin seem lighter if that was possible.

"Guess not." he purred. I frowned, shaking my head.

"Yeah, really." I added with a nod, sipping my soda again.

We sat in silence for a moment, I eyeing the distance between us, was painfully obvious as to how close we really were, could feel the cold rising from his body like he was some kind of newly designed air conditioner...and a darn good looking one at that.

I gulped slightly, eyeing his legs some, felt myself blush.

"So..." I began, his head tilting slightly.

"Skipping lunch today?" i asked, him giving a slight nod.

"Why is that?" I sighed, could tell he wasn’t going to work with me.

He blinked, turning his attention to the sky above, debating slightly as he spoke.

"I suppose I’m just not very hungry during the day."

I assessed this, nodding some.

"Well, you still need to eat something during the day. It's not healthy to skip meals." I warned, noting I probably sounded like his mother.

He chuckled some.

"Really I’m fine." he assured me, turning towards me now.

"But thank you for your concern." he added with a playful wink.

I choked slightly on my drink, coughing as I attempted to clear my throat, looking away, ignoring the heat at my cheeks.

"I was just saying." I huffed.

"I see." he sang. I rolled my eyes

.
"You sure you don't want any of my food or drink? I'm willing to share." I added, offering my open pop to him.

"I mean...if you don't mind that I drank out of it. I promise, I don't back wash or anything" I stated seriously, Matt smirking some.

I gritted my teeth some, wondering why I was suddenly being so nice, and why he had to ruin my sincere peace offering with that intoxicating smirk.

"Really Melis..." he began, my heart skipping a beat at the way he said my name, reaching for my soda, taking it gently.

"I'm really not very hungry or thirsty..." he continued, frowning at the red can.

"But...I suppose if it makes you happy." he sighed, bringing the rim to his lips drinking from it deeply.

I watched, about to protest, but didn't bother, noted he had already taken a few gulps, lowering the can now, offering it back to me.

I eyed it a moment, then looked to him, his eye brow rasing slightly, his lip twitching.

"I assure you..." he began as he handed the can back to me.

"I do not back wash or anything like that." he repeated, winking again.

I rolled my eyes, looking down at the top of the soda can.

He watched me with sheer curiosity, his eyes lighting up with a million questions as I brought the can closer to my lips.

"Heh..." I sighed, looking to him now.

"Isn't this what they would consider an 'indirect kiss?'" I teased, his eyebrows rasing some, before lowering as he smiled that infamous crooked smile.

"I believe it is." he added, watching once again with interest as I sipped the soda.

I could feel myself blush the moment the can was in reach, the cool rim pressing to my lips now, made me blush as the liquid filled my mouth, noting this indeed was like kissing this beautiful boy beside me...not that, of course, I had thought about doing such a thing...

I lowered the can then, trying to ignore the blush that spread along my face.

...indirect kiss... my mind mumbled as I traced my finger along the rim.

The bell rang, springing me to my feet. Matt was already on his, already at the door. I frowned, glaring as I stepped to him.

"I'm on to you buddy..." I growled, Matt smiling innocently as he opened the door for me, crossing his arm before his chest, bowing ever so politely.

"I’ve no clue what you're talking about Melis." he sang, smiling crookedly once more.

I rolled my eyes, shaking my head.

Gym was my next class and my most favored, that is, it would be if I wasn't so out of shape, and it lacked about two or three students whom I was sure I could do without.

Matt had amazingly disappeared, and I was actually a little bummed, but continued on. I approached the gym, waiting outside the doors as the last class began to file out. Sadly the rest of my class thought it possible to enter while the second class was still exiting. Without warning, they began to push, merging together, creating one huge pile up.

I sighed heavily, desperate to get to the end of the line, but unable to, the mob of students about me held me in place, crushed me against them. At one point I was able to scumble back, blinking as arms encircled me.

I gasped, suddenly pressed back against someone, could feel the cold of their body send a chill from my hair line to the tips of my toes. I swung my head around, eyes wide as I stared at Matt, his arms about me, hovering ever so close to my body, as if a barrier, protecting me from the other students who crushed around us.

I was beyond red by the time the traffic jam had parted, my class now easily entering the gym. Matt's arms moved and I stumbled forward, dizzy and dazed at how close I had been to him. I risked a glance back could see the question in his eyes, quickly lowering my gaze.

"Th-thanks!" I stuttered, breathless.

Quickly I composed myself, rushing off to the locker room before he could speak, striping in my favored stall. I sat there for sometime, sighing heavily, before I hauled myself out.

I took my seat at the edge of the bleachers, away from everyone else, trying hard to ignore Cory who was literally bouncing off the walls as he called my name. Luckily for me the coach appeared and class came to order.

Today was good old flag tag. Ah, how I loved the game when I was younger, more nimble and had better balance...when Eric wasn't planning to stalk me around the gym. I sighed waiting as the team captains were chosen, Eric being one, the other being some random student who’s name I did not know. I sighed, praying to the Almighty that Eric would not chose me, that he would all but forget about me. I crossed my fingers, waiting now at the opposite end of the bleaches, hoping that if I was out of sight, I was out of mind. Sadly though, my troupe had somehow moved to where I was, huddled about me and drawing attention to us.

"Ugh..." I groaned, hanging my head, knew I was doomed.

"What's wrong Melis?" asked Cory, suddenly there.

"Nothing." I sighed, resting my chin on my knees as I waited for my name to be called.

Amazingly, Eric did not call my name. Robin and his buddies made the top five, while the other captain, Trevor, randomly picked out other students. I was a bit shocked to see Matt and his family were one of the last to be called. Sadly, Cory and Hiro ended up on Eric’s team, whereas Matt and Lark, along with Miyon were on Trevor’s team. It was down to myself and another random female student now. I prayed like never before, mentally crossing my fingers and chanting, could literally feel Eric's giddy excitement filling the room, made me want to march over there and smack that stupid smile off his stupid face.

"Katie." called Eric, the girl gasping lightly, getting to her feet and walking toward Eric, her eyes full of wonder as she stared at his perfect physique.

I all but collapsed, relieved to be with my friends and even more relieved to not be part of Eric's team. It took effort but I was on my feet and joining my team, though lingered to the right slightly while the others plotted their would be assault.

"Relieved?" sang a voice from behind.

I closed my eyes, hiding my lips for a moment before I turned slowly to face Him.

"Of course." I spoke, matter a fact.

Matt chuckled lightly nodding.

The game began, the girls running here and there, giggling when the boy they fancied chased them, screaming when it was Eric. I rolled my eyes, wondering why the girls were so crazy about him. He was good looking, with his spiky black hair and dark eyes, not to mention Asian. Maybe that's what it was, it sure as hell wasn't his personality or smarts. It didn't really matter though. What did was avoiding the opposing team, capturing the flags that hung about their waist without losing your own...and without losing your pants. Sadly, a few boys had become victims to Eric and his moronic friends, the boys pulling the flags from the opposing boy's waist so hard, they lost their pants, a few wearing the infamous tighty whitey. The girls giggled and such while the boys cracked up, the poor student tugging his pants back into place, while trying to continue the game.

The coach didn't seem to care, was busy in his office.

"Pathetic..." I sighed rolling my eyes as I ran for it, opting to find a nice, dark corner, away from it all, until the game came to an end.

Sadly that was not the case, the opposing team, namely Eric's idiotic followers, were always fast on my heels.

This time I had all four after me. I was shocked, their sizes overwhelming, all buff and tall, far too tall for me. Jocks, football players... I could tell if any of them grabbed my flag I would lose my shorts and then some.

Panic washed over me as they began positioning themselves around me. I was tired, my chest hurting, as were my legs, pushing myself now, desperate to out run the bastards, but failing to do so.

I was about to give up, to just throw the damned red flag at them in hopes they would give up chase, but as I turned, vivid blue eyes glowed from behind their mammoth forms, made me lose my breath.

In mere seconds, their flags were gone and before me stood Matt, his stance protective, holding their flags in his right hand, raising the yellow bundle to them, the four stopping in their tracks, looking over their belts.

"How did he...?" began one, looking himself over.

"He ceated man!" cried another, the males glaring as they stepped to him.

"I cheated?" he questioned.

"You four are here, about to take on one girl. That sounds a little like overkill to me..." he hissed, a rumble in his chest as he spoke, almost a growl.

The four stopped instantly, rocking on their heels some as they stumbled back, looking shocked and frightened.

They glared again shaking their heads, pouting as they walked towards the bleachers.

Matt watched them until they were gone, turning to me now, looking down at me with questioning eyes.

"Are you alright?" he asked.

I blinked, about to speak, but his eyes were overwhelming me again, my words a jumbled mess.

He blinked, raising his eyebrow, smirking some.

"Is that a yes?" he offered.

I frowned, sighing with a nod.

"Yes...thank you."

He nodded again, his eyes still on me, though were gone when I looked to him.

"They seem to get carried away." he sighed.

"No." I spoke.

"Odds are Eric told them to do it." I stated with a sigh.

"He's stupid like that." I added.

He blinked, chuckled some, before shaking his head.

"Round two! Come on people!" called the coach, suddenly there.

I sighed, Matt escorting me to our side of the court, once again replaying the game.

I didn't bother running too much, knew it was futile. My best bet was to just linger as close to Matt as possible. I didn't want to encourage him, however the males of the class seemed to find him intimidating, which meant if I hung around him enough they would leave me be. It worked and I was able to just deal with a few rather shy girls, their cheeks instantly heating up when they were 20 yards or so from Matt.

I rolled my eyes at their star struck faces, noted Matt wasn't exactly playing the game. He seemed to just dance along the students about him, sometimes grabbing their flags sometimes ignoring them altogether. I noted I had been looking at him far too much, quickly turning my heated gaze from him.

Quickly, I searched the other students, noted Cory and Hiro at the far side of the gym, chasing random girls and Miyon. It was then I noticed Lark was sitting out this game, perched at the top of the bleaches to the far right glaring at me as always.

I gulped, gasping some when his vivid topaz eyes caught my own, could literally feel the hate beam at my forehead. I looked away, suddenly overwhelm with panic and fright, catching my now untied shoe lace under my opposite foot, falling forward, the gym floor rushing up to meet me...but stopping a few feet away.

I blinked, noted something firm about my stomach, snuggled perfectly below my breast, felt something hard at my right side as well. I also noted the cold...

"Careful Melis." sang a musical voice.

I gulped, reluctantly looking up.

Matt was facing the opposite direction, his arm coiled underneath me, had saved me from my tragic face plant. Slowly he turned his face to mine, his eyes instantly changing the rhythm of my heart, made me lose my breath.

I watched the amusement play across his pale face, curl his too perfect lips into that too perfect crooked smile. Like an idiot, I stared, unable to speak, though noted the pressure against my upper abdomen, quickly drawing myself up to face him.

"Y-yeah, thanks." I stuttered, gripping the cross necklaces at my chest, twirling the chain with nervous energy.

He chuckled softly. I frowned looking to him, watched as he tilted his head slightly, reaching out now to tuck an erect strand of hair behind my ear. With that he was off.

I blinked, shocked as he strode away, wanted to shout the stream of profanities I had been saving, sucking in a deep breath, holding it as if waiting for the cue...but instead let out an exasperated sigh, trying hard to ignore the blush that colored my face.

I knelt grumbling, tying my shoelace in annoyance.

 ...stupid Matt...

I thought, his name alone creating flutters in my stomach.  

...stupid me...!

I growled noted I was being beyond ridiculous.

What was my problem today? Why was he getting to me this much? I didn’t let Eric annoy me like this, yet here was Mr. Star Student, beaming with amusement every time I gave the boy a passing glance. I was sick of myself, sick! One more stupid, love struck gaze or flutter and I would smack myself silly.

Much to my relief, gym was over and I couldn't have been happier, racing off towards the locker room. It was within reach before a silvery voice caught my attention.

"Melis?

Another flutter, another mental smack.

I sighed with heavy annoyance turning slowly on my heels to face him.

"What Matt?" I asked, trying hard not to sound too annoyed. I failed.

Instantly his eyebrows raised and I could tell her was trying hard not to laugh.

"I was just wondering if you were okay. You didn't hurt your foot or anything did you?" he asked, sounding rather sincere.

"Hmm...well seeing as how you caught me far before I hit the ground I’d say I’m just peachy." I spoke, giving a overly sarcastic smile.

Matt smirked, and I cursed inwardly, could tell even my sarcasm was egging him on.

"I see. Perhaps you should tie your shoes a bit tighter next time." he offered.

I glared.

"Well we all can't be perfect." I snorted, narrowing my eyes, hoping my hate beam burned his marble forehead.

He laughed without humor, nodding some.

"Indeed we cannot..."

I blinked, looking to him, but he was already gone, half way across the gym.

"How is he doing that!?" I asked myself, the mystery of it all, not to mention the reason I seemed to be the only one who found it odd made me all the more annoyed and frustrated.

I mumbled on my way into the locker room, changed in my stall, and was out, trying hard to be the first in line to exit the gym, failing as the taller students beat me to it. I sighed heavily.

I could literally sense Matt behind me, the air suddenly chilly. I glanced over my shoulder and sure enough he was a few feet off, his brothers on either side of him. I didn't bother making eye contact with Matt, instead focused on Hiro who was smiling as he whispered something to the tall blonde. My eyes quickly flickered to Lark, who glared at me with new found hatred.

I flinched slightly, turning quickly away, noting that if looks could kill, I would legally be dead five times before I hit the ground.

Much to my relief the students began to file out. I wasted no time, hauling myself into the crowd now, pushing and pulling my way up the halls and to my locker.

It was the last two classes and I couldn't be more thrilled. The weekend was only a few hours away, surely I could survive, last until the buses pulled up where I could collapse in the back seat. I nodded, opening my locker now, grabbing my huge duffle bag, throwing my gym clothes in along with any homework and my art supplies. I took a moment to look over the mass inside my locker, wondering if I should study for the science test on Monday. I continued to debate, suddenly feeling eyes on me.

I frowned some, blinking slightly at a tinkle noise I heard, something like a bell jingling. I looked around, not really noting anyone with bells.

I shrugged, unable to locate the noise, opting it best to get to class before I was tardy. I slung my heavy bag over my shoulder, closing the locker, instantly hitting the ceiling.

"Damn it!" I snapped, gathering my heart, glaring at the blonde youth before me.

"Why do you always jump like that?" asked Matt, looking curious beyond his entertained expression.

I blinked, glared more, mumbling under my breath some. He raised his eyebrows looking like he heard me. I figured he did, though had no intention of standing around waiting for him to play another round of 20 questions.

"Nothing Matt. Nothing." I sighed, heading down the halls now, knew he was fast on my heels.

Art was always relaxing for me...or had been. I had always been use to sitting alone in the back working at my own pace and such, having my own space. As of late, Matt, along with his brothers, Cory, and Miyon, had gathered there, taking up much of the table space, not to mention made one heck of a commotion. I did what I could to ignore it, also trying to ignore Matt's burning gaze in my profile. At one point I was tempted to march over and beat him senseless with my sketchbook, but decided against it, noting my sketchbook was far too precious to use as a weapon.

Minutes before the bell rang, I was ready, poised at the edge of my seat, in motion as soon as it sounded, leaving Matt and the others in my dust. I was relieved when I reached the main hall, sure I had broken a few ribs due to the mass of students I had to push through.

I was nearing the first corridor now, about to make a left towards the double doors, when I heard a strange tinkle sound again. I stopped, blinking some.

I looked to the students about me, noting they didn't seem to be wearing bells or anything of the sort. I shrugged, pressing on, hearing it again, though louder, more urgent. I froze mid step, turning on my heels swiftly to face the opposite end of the hall now, locking eyes with Robin.

She gasped as if she had just been caught committing some horrible crime, stopping instantly on her heels, rocking on them to catch her balance. Eric lingered not too far behind, had actually bumped into her. She turned to him, the two beginning to argue now., I raised my eyebrows some, shaking my head as I turned away, sure she was the one behind the noise.

Outside was always nice. It was still cool due to it being early January, but the breeze was welcomed in comparison to the stuffy halls and B.O. due to the students who didn't believe in using deodorant. I had just stepped out the door when something flickered to my right. I looked quickly saw nothing, wondered if maybe it was a squirrel. I shrugged turning my attention before me, and nearly hit the dirt.

Sure enough Matt was there, doing all he could to keep his expression composed. Luckily for me, I hadn't stumbled to far, had managed to catch myself quite well actually. I narrowed my eyes, glaring at him the way I envisioned Lark glaring at me. He raised his eyes brows, his lips pursed slightly.

"You have such a fierce glare." he spoke, sounding intrigued.

I rolled my eyes.

"Oh, this isn’t a glare, it's a hate beam." I corrected, taping my forehead with my index and middle fingers before walking past him.

"A what?" he asked, following me.

"A hate beam, an angry lightning bolt." I added, rolling my eyes more as I rushed towards the trailer outside.

"Could you please elaborate a little more for me?"

I spun on my heels, turning to him heatedly. Once again I was far too close to him, his gorgeous face and fierce eyes making me near faint. It took all I had to keep myself on my feet, the words I had planned to shout now gone, tossed around like a rag doll. I was once again staring.

He stared at me too, also seeming to take in the closeness of us, though did so with a mere flicker of his eyes.

"Yes?" he sang, the sound blowing through me as if my heart were a wind chime, spurred into song by his melodic wind.

I mentally slapped myself for thinking something so cheesy, giving him a quick glare before I turned and stomped off.

"Nothing." I sighed, beyond annoyed, acceding the steps quickly, entering the class in a rush.

Class hadn’t started yet, the teacher at her desk conversing with a student. I sighed, heading for my seat, caught Eric to my right looking peculiar. Cautiously I began to walk up the row of desks, nearing his, instantly heading for the row next to that, then the next, avoiding Eirc and his foot that had magically appeared in the middle of the isle, and right in my path no less.

I glared, taking my seat, saw him laughing under his breath, his idiot buddies joining in. And why? I didn't know. I had avoided the fools trap, so what was so funny? Had they sabotaged my seat?!

I stood, looking at my seat, saw nothing peculiar, lightly brushed the back of my skirt, didn't feel anything that resembled gum or glue. I sat then, Eric laughing more. I sighed annoyed, gripping a pencil now, sure I would snap just before it did.

I sat beyond pissed in class, doing my best to ignore Eric, also trying to ignore Matt who was now seemingly tense beside me. I gave in, giving him a quick glance, noted he had his attention on a book. His face was hard, forced really, like he too was pissed off at someone or about something. I turned my own attention to my book, attempting to find my place when my name was called, the teacher reminding me my eyes needed to remain on my book, not on my class mates.

I sighed heavily, relieved when she called on another student to read. Like an idiot I glanced to Eric, heard him snort and attempt to muffle a laugh. I glared, wishing my hate beam would penetrate his thick empty skull, bust it open like a baseball bat to a watermelon. Of course no brain matter would color the walls or surrounding students. Eric didn't have a brain to begin with.

Class was drawing to an end and I was getting anxious, why I wasn't sure. Maybe it was because I could finally go home and get away from it all, focus on other things for the next three days. Maybe it was because of Eric's moronic behavior, or Matt's sudden tension. All in all, I was on my feet and well on my way out the door, when someones hand gripped my shoulder from behind.

"Excuse me!" I shouted, spinning on my heels to face them, prepared to beat the crap out of them with my massive bag, glaring fiercely, my eyes suddenly wide, shocked at the figure before me.

"Melis...!" spoke Robin.

I blinked, wondering what was going on, why she was suddenly here and actually communicating with me.

"Hey..." she continued looking a little nervous.

"Hey..." I spoke, trying to keep my sharp tongue sheathed.

It was silent for a moment, we two looking about the classroom, at out feet, watched as the students began to exit. I looked to see if Matt was still loitering, noted his desk was now empty. I blinked, sure he would escort me to the buses as he had the day before. I shrugged, sighing softly.

"Did you...get my text messages?" she asked, calling me back to reality.

I blinked, turning to her now, nodding some.

"Yeah." She nodded.

"You never replied...though I don't blame you!" she spoke, raising her hand slightly.

I nodded again, tilting my head slightly, heard something ring in the background A bell?

"Look..." she began.

"I know what I did was wrong..."

"Wrong?" I snapped.

"More like ' what the hell were you thinking?'" I remarked.

She grimaced.

"I know, I know..." she sighed, looking down some.

"It was beyond wrong...I really never meant for it to happen...but it did. Nothing I say or do will change that." she sighed again, rolling her eyes slightly.

"But I was hoping we, that I, could make amends."

I blinked, shocked...and wary. For all I knew this was what had Eric laughing all the way to the bank.

"Amends?" I repeated.

She nodded.

"By...?"

She looked up for a minute, apparently thinking.

And how did one make amends with a friend they had wronged, especially when it involved sex and the others use to be boyfriend? I was sure flowers and an apology note was out of the question. I supposed now she was more or less planning to buy me, would probably take me to the mall and get me some random anime book to shut me up, to make it look like she was the good person here. I frowned inwardly, noting that sounded like something she would do. I refused to go along with it.

"Why don't we go out? Like old times?" she said.

I blinked, confusion on my face. She mirrored my expression, rolling her eyes.

"Saturday night. After seven. I'll pick you up and we can go out. I haven’t had a girls day in so long."

I listened, keeping my expression blank. I raised my chin slightly now as I spoke.

"Why me? Besides the amends part, you could always invite your other buddies Jasmine and Yuri." I stated, noting it was true. The three of them had become quite the little troupe as of late.

She sighed, looking down, fidgeting with her too short denim mini.

"True...but I always had the most fun when I was with you..." she spoke, her voice breaking some.

I frowned.

Now she was flattering me? Give me a break! Something had to be up...but if so, why was I suddenly feeling sad and alone? Suddenly wanting to go out, to re-create the memories of old with her all over again? True, we had always had a lot fo fun when we went out together, but that was the past, before Eric, before she slept with him and ruined my would be romance.

Things were different. I was different and she was too, yet despite it all, I still wanted to be friends with her, and somewhere in my heart, the loneliness I’d felt and somehow managed to lock away a few days ago was freeing itself, pushing at the box and swaying my judgement...that and the annoying tinkle sound that was sounding loudly, like some annoying car alarm.

"Melis?" called Robin.

I blinked, noted I had spaced out. She starred at me, frowning sightly, holding her coat over her arms now.

"It's...fine. I understand. I really don't deserve a second chance..." she stated, lowering her gaze now.

"But,.,please!" she begged, her eyes wide, rimmed with tears as she spoke.

"If you just...if you could just give me Saturday! I promise, I’ll never bother you again! Just Saturday night is all I’m asking! I know it'll never make things right, but please, for the sake of what we had...our frinedship..."

Then her jacket was at her face, her sobs muffled now. I blinked looking around saw the students had already left, also noted the teacher was gone too. I was tempted to sneak away, to make one hell of a run for the door. Amazingly, my body began to move, was actually angling in that direction.

...what are you doing....!? screamed a voice in my head.