RPG What's A Girl To Do? [PG-SL]

[Revelation]

[size=1][color=#7D8593][i]Tear me open at the seams.
Take everything you need.
Take my heart if you like the beat,
take my lungs if it's hard to breathe, to breathe.[/i]

Sitting in front of his laptop, Michael?s ears were suddenly flooded with the lyrics of [i]Still Breathing- Cauterize[/i]. He didn?t care to think about the words, just listening to the instruments, listening for each part and how they collaborate to make a melodic sound. Michael smirked slightly and suddenly had instinct to write a song but he couldn?t think of what to write, which brought his smirk to a solid, concentrated look.

[i]"I'm not cold," she said,
but she's shaking as she's lying next to me naked.
Pulled the hair back from her face to let that smile heat this place.
And this feels so far from real.
I'm lost and I love it.[/i]

Whilst tapping his foot against the carpeted floor, his Marketing teacher, Mr. Hughley, came behind him and cleared his throat. Michael didn?t hear him or see him, nor did he acknowledge his teacher?s presence, he merely sat there listening to his song. Yet, his teacher didn?t leave and so, Michael paused the song and turned to his teacher, who was standing behind him with arms crossed.

[B]?Are you getting much done, Michael??[/B] Michael sat there staring blankly at his teacher. [B]?With your project??

?I finished it at home.?[/B] was all Michael said but the teacher didn?t comply with that response, since he still stood behind Michael who turned his back on Mr. Hughley.

[B]?Well, Michael, I?d like to see you doing something productive, for example doing the extra credit I assigned to the students a few days ago if they were already finished with their project.?[/B]

Michael sighed and replied that he had finished that as well. He felt he didn?t need a teacher looking over his shoulder and asking him to do things that he already had done, which most teachers would have known. Mr. Hughley nodded and walked away, scorning some students who were goofing around and playing arcade games on the computer. Michael then went back to his song, knowing that it would give him some insight as to what he should write about.

[i]I can't take it, if you're waiting.
I am ready to tell the world about a girl
who showed me love again for the first time.
And it's everything I dreamed of.[/i]

At that moment, Michael was suddenly sure of what to write. The song was calling out to him, telling him the story of his love and how he felt about her, how he had this burning want for her in the most pure of love, though it didn?t feel like love but more of desire in its innocent form. His concentration turned to furious typing on a program that he had on his laptop, a program that helped developed music but was just a draft.

The song went on and he typed on, wanting to pour, not all, but a bit of himself and the truth he felt about the girl he crushed on for so long since his arrival at Timber Valley.

[i]Tell me what you thought about when you were breathing oh so loud,
screaming oh so loud.
Tell me if this is real.
I need to know before I get too close.

So here we lie in this beautiful mess of tangled sheets and beads of sweat.
With my heart in your hand and my neck in the other,
should I be scared or should I come closer?
But it's still beating and I'm still breathing.
You haven't hurt me yet.[/i]

Just as he was about to type another phrase or two, he stopped and listened to the last lyrics, knowing what they would say and his hands just stopped typing altogether. He understood the words and what they had meant. It was something more but just the surface words of the last lyrics were something he had to think about, something he couldn?t bear to happen.

[i]Morning always comes too quick when you're around, when you're around.
You leave me lying here so they don't find us out, they'll find us out.
Tear me open at the seams, take everything you need.
Take my heart if you like the beat,
take my lungs if it's hard to breathe.[/i]

In his head, Michael knew that Brandi was something else, the exact opposite of who he was but she was just more than a student whom he was attracted by, she was different and he liked that, in fact it was what he first saw in her above anything else.

[i]This song is dedicated to[/i] Michael typed the words while he spoke them in his head. [i]Brandi Morgan.[/i][/size][/color]

[renayiiq]

Boo watched Hitomi storm out of class. She didn't think it was fair of the teacher to give her such a hard time.
So, she asked, "Why'd you have to go and do that? You have serious issues."
"Would you like a seat in the office, too?"
"Hmm...now I have to think about this...well, you're being a prick today, more so than usual, so sure. Buh-bye. Bye everyone!" she waved and blew a kiss as she walked out of the room. She'd wanted to get out of that class anyways. She caught up with Hitomi and told her what happened.
"You shouldn't have stuck up for me. We're both in trouble now," said Hitomi.
"Eh, I decided that it wasn't right for him to be such an ass, and I didn't want to stay in that class another minute longer. He was getting on my nerves. So, you going to the dance with anyone?"
"Mmhm. Suzu asked me and I said yes. What about you?" Hitomi asked.
"I'm thinking about asking Nick, but I'm not sure if he's interested. I might go alone. I don't really know, yet. But I'm making my own dress. I've already been sketching it in my booklet. I have 3 ideas. Wanna see?"
"Sure, why not," replied Hitomi.
Boo showed her the three designs. One was a floor-length halter dress, black and attaching to a choker, and about 3 inches below the knees, flaring out with ruffles. The next was similar, but directly above the knee in length, the whole skirt part in ruffles, but it had arm openings that hung around the shoulders (like belle from beauty and the beast?), and it was supposed to be a dark bluish purple. The third was a deep-necked, puffy-sleeved long dress done in mostly medieval style, except the sleeves were short. It had a corset design in front and was designed with green embroidery.
"Wow, that's really neat," said Hitomi. "Which one are you going to make?"
"I don't know. I love all three, but the third appeals to me the most," replied Boo.
"You know, I'm making my own dress, too," said Hitomi.
"That's awesome. Oh, great, we're almost to the principal's office," stated Boo.
"Great..."

========
"This is unacceptable behavior for both of you ladies, especially you, Miss Shiozu," said the Principal.
"Sir, you don't understand. He was giving me a hard time. I think I had every right to do it," replied Hitomi.
"And you, Miss Lazrach, what is [I]your[/I] excuse?"
"For one, it's pronounced 'luh-räk,' not 'lazz-rack.' My excuse? I was telling him how it is. Plain and simple. So, what's my punishment?" asked Boo.
"You both have to write an essay, explaining why you must respect authority in all cases. Your teacher has earned your respect, he's your elder. It will be no shorter than three pages. Am I making myself clear?"
"Yes, sir," the girls replied.
"Now go to the library for the rest of the class period. The essay is due by the end of the day."

The girls left the principal's office. That was just too easy...
"He's never been that nice to me," said Boo. "He usually gives me suspension or something like that."
"I know. Have you noticed that alot of the teachers and staff are acting weird lately?" asked Hitomi.
"Uh-huh," said Boo. "So, we basically have to just type an ass-kissing paper?"
"I suppose so."
"Well, one tip...never try to justify your actions in an apologetic letter, even if you're simply explaining your side...that'll just get you into more trouble. I know this because it happened to me alot last year. Kiss as much ass as possible, but don't make it too good to be true. You want me to type both of ours?" asked Boo.
"You sure? I mean, I don't want you to go through the trouble of it," said Hitomi.
"Nah, it's okay, I can type them up in the library and have both done in no time. It's sorta my specialty. I should go to college for quickly writing kiss-ass letters of apology," she laughed. Hitomi laughed, too.
"Let's go, then," Hitomi said.

[Citrus]

[SIZE=1]OOC: Sorry I havn't been able to post lately. I had a concert last night so I couldn't get my post together. Anyways here it is. P.S It is a little short, but ,y post later on tonight will be the size of a novel :p
---------------------------------------

Leah sat in her seat drawing on a peice of paper while listening to the teacher discuss the lesson. A lot of things have happened over the course of the short day. A dance was coming up, she was caught skipping, Bianca wanted to go out with Quincy, and Leah had a bad feeling that Sammy didn't feel...

"So therefore the formula for density is, Miss. Ngoon?"

Leah looked up and paused for a second. "I believe it is Density equals mass over voloume sir."

The teacher made a dismissive sound. She wasn't sure as to if her answer was wrong or correct. She shrugged and looked back at Sammy who was actually taking notes.

"I guess he wants to get good grades..."

Sammy looked up from his notes and caught Leah's glaze. She smiled and flicked him a note.

[I]Are you worried or something that B wants to go out with Quincy?

Yes or No. Circle one.[/I]

She watched him open up the note and looked back toward the front of the class. How she wished she was in Band already. They only class she enjoyed, a class where she can express herself through the beautiful notes of her flute.

Leah looked at the clock. Still 70 minutes until the dreadful words of Science would stop ringing in her ears.[/SIZE]

[Annie]

[size=1][color=indigo]Sammy looked down at the note curiously and glanced around the room to see if he had been caught taking it. Satisfied that he hadn't, he adjusted in his desk to hide himself behind the student in front of him, and began opening the note. Each krinkle made him wince and look up at the teacher, but to his fortune, Mr. Bradick was too busy rambling on and scribbling on the board. Sammy then looked down to read the note.

[i][b]"Are you worried or something that B wants to go out with Quincy?

Yes or No. Circle one."[/i][/b]

Caught off guard by Leah's abrupt question, Sammy just stared at the piece of paper for a minute before trying to think of how to answer. Leah was a good girl, he cared for her, and he knew she had some sort of affection towards him. If he said "yes", would he hurt her feelings? If he said "no", she'd know he was lying and he wasn't prepared to talk about it. His pencil tapped nervously on his desk and he rested his face in his right palm (Sammy's left-handed).

Sighing in defeat, he decided that he shouldn't lie to Leah and circled "Yes", and added:

[i][b]"Well, I'm not worried. But I am a bit--let down, for lack of better description. I really adore Bianca, and I am happy that she is happy with her choice. But I can't help but feel a bit left out--I guess I was being selfish in thinking that she would ask me to the dance, or say 'yes' if I had asked her.

I don't know what I'm supposed to do, Leah."[/i][/b]

Taking a deep breath, Sammy studied his teacher's movements and awaited the right moment to toss the note back. Finally, Sammy got his opportunity and tossed the note back to Leah. Sammy scratched his head with the eraser side of his pencil and leaned back in his seat, deciding to catch up on taking notes.[/color][/size]

[Sinistra]

[SIZE=1]Brandi was never more sure of anything than of her crush of Michael. Now, the trick was to get over her little problem. In the past, she had always made a fool of herself in front of her crush, mumbling and never saying what she meant. It only made her look stupid.

She sighed in the middle of Creative Writing as she thought of something to write.

[B]"Class. Because your journals are due next week, I'm giving you this class to work on poems or prose. Remember, it's not what you write about, but how well you let it flow into words."[/B] Her teacher, Miss George said, waving her hands in a fluid motion to emphasize the importance of the last phrase.

[I]'Maybe I should think of a list of things to do before I die. It won't be long if I decide to even talk to Michael.'[/I] She said in her mind. [I]'Yeah right. I doubt he'd want to be with someone like me. We are...perhaps too different. He's on a completely different level than I am. But I'd be willing to change, I'd just want to make him happy.'[/I]

[B]"Also children!"[/B] The teacher popped up again. [B]"You may take out your musical...technology. I find that music helps you to think, so feel free to listen away. I won't be teaching at all."[/B] She winked, knowing everyone had their CD and MP3 players.

Brandi smiled a little as she took out her iPod, it had a nice robins-egg-blue tint to the cover. She put her headphones on and began to listen to the All-American Rejects, and their newest hit, Dirty Little Secret. She nodded her head with the beat and picked up her pen.

[I]I'll never tell anyone
not even you. I don't know
why my knees buckle.
But I think I'm starting to get it.

You'll never know that you're
The Reason.

But should I be accepting of you?
We're just so different. But then again,
love conquers all, and that includes
differences.

If only it could conquer my weakness.

I want to embrace you, to console you.
But would you let me? My head tells me
"No." But by heart says "Yes."
I want to keep all of you. I want to cherish
you.

You and no one else. You are my Beloved.
Now if only you knew...

I love you, but you'll never know.
You'll never know the reason why
my heart aches, why I shake when
you're around, why I feel weak, why
I can't speak the right words.

I love you, but you'll never know.[/I]

Brandi re-read it over, but she wasn't satisfied.

[I]'I like Michael more than I can say in a crappy poem.'[/I] She thought to herself. Poetry was never her forte, but drawing was. Brandi loved to draw portraits, but recently she had not done so due to kickboxing. [I]'Maybe I could express my feelings better through art.'[/I] She thought to herself. [I]'No, maybe not. I don't want to show my true feelings until I can confirm his side of things. That's if I can work up the courage to even speak to him.'[/I]

[B]'I am such a conflicted person.'[/B] She smirked. [B]'But Michael, you'll always be my Dirty Little Secret.'[/B][/SIZE]

[SlowChemical]

[SiZE=1]Hitomi looked at the computer screen as ?Boo? typed both there essays. She couldn?t even write a butt kissing essay anyways. She just probably write about how she was sorry that the teacher was wrong and how he deserve to be in a psycho clinic. Luckily Boo could type fast.
?I?m tired?? Hitomi said and yawned
?Well I?m done with yours. Haha, this is my ass kissing master piece!? Boo said setting in up for the printer. As it started to print to the paper the paper jammed in the printer.
?YOU?RE NOT SERIOUSE!!..? Hitomi yelled at the printer shaking it violently.
?AH! Just great!?
?That is it..? Hitomi walked up to a person from the baseball team. She yanked his bat away and walked back to the printer.
?What are you playing to do?? Boo asked when Hitomi returned with a bat.
?Watch! ? Hitomi took a few practice swings. She raised up the bat over her head ready to take a huge dent into the printer.
?NO!!? Boo stopped her
?What??
?Do you really want to write another ass kissing essay saying why you broke the printer??
Hitomi thought for a second ? Uhh not really??
?Then let go of the bat?when can use that later for that freaking teacher..?
?Uhh okay..? Hitomi let down her bat.
Boo finally got the paper out and printed Hitomi?s essay out, followed by her own. Hitomi looked it over and it was true Boo was great at writing these essays.
?Ha Boo you should start a business selling your essays for 20 bucks an hour?? Hitomi laughed.
?Ohh yeah you?re making your own dress right? You got anything planned out yet..? Boo asked
?NOPE! I just jotted down some things I wanted on the sketch pad. I wrote down I want my dress to be black or red. The rest I have no idea?? Hitomi shrugged ?I have no idea how can I even make my own dress anyways! It be like nightmare on Elm street. Well we got to get going?this library is way to quite..? [/SIZE]

[Ezekiel]

[COLOR=#841a35][SIZE=1]Quincy sat diligently through his lesson, waiting, as usual, for the final bell to go. He never learnt anything new in these damnable lessons and would rather be left in the library to teach himself things he would find useful.

Near the end he felt something hit the side of his head. He twitched and turned slightly to look in the direction the paper ball had come from. His eyes met Dameon's and his upper lip curled into a snarl. The pretty young man across the room from him waved jovially, only to be met by Quincy mouthing something rather rude back. Dameon pouted sadly, putting on an over-exaggerated hurt look. Quincy merely rolled his eyes and slouched down in his chair, looking up at the wall clock again.

Eventually, thankfully, the bell went and everyone (save Dameon) was dismissed. Quincy then met Sammy in the corridor and the pair of them walked and chatted for a while.

As they turned a corner, Quincy walked straight into someone coming the other way. He winced and dropped his textbook, growling softly to himself, [B]"Watch it, oaf."[/B] he wheezed...before he realised Bianca was on the floor holding her stomach.

[B]"Oh, oh dear. Bianca, I'm so sorry, I thought you were some stupid child..."[/B] Quincy reached out a hand, now quite ashamed of himself, and helped the winded girl up off the floor. Sammy scowled but tried to hide the expression with a worried smile.

[B]"You okay, B?"[/B] he asked, holding her by the elbow as Quincy supported her.

[B]"Yes, I'm fine. Thank you."[/B]

She took one glance at Quincy and then left to find Leah, leaving the two boys in a state of awkward silence.[/SIZE][/COLOR]

[Redemption]

OOC: And here I thought we were all in Multi-Strand Science. Citrus, I think you would agree with me that we will be all in the same classes from now on. And the post quality has improved. Thank you.

Oh, and sorry about this extremely late intro post. Lets get this thing moving. ^_^

[color=#6600cc][size=1][b]Thursday - Afternoon class[/b]

There was a loud sharp knock on the door. The teacher looked towards the door, clicking his tongue in disapproval for the interruption.

" Come in," he said rather gruffly. The door opened. Leah looked up to see Alex, her crush, standing in the doorway, looking a little pale. His longish black ahir brushed around his head as he walked in. " Alex Jacobs, good of you to finally join us at the end of the day."

Alex flashed a devious smile. " Sorry sir. I was rather sick this morning, so I thought I'd stay home. But I knew I just couldn't miss our Multi-Strand lesson."

The teacher's eyes narrowed. " Enough of your sarcasm, but it does look like you are sick, so quickly take your seat."

" Thanks sir."

Alex saw Leah look up at him from handing a note to Sammy. He gave her a warm smile before talking the seat behind her. His amazing 2-shaded ice blue eyes wandered across her back.

The lesson continued on for another couple of minutes before the bell for the change of class. Everyone rose from the class and moved out of the room to English. While they were walking to the next class, Alex went up and started talking to Leah.

" Sorry I bailed out on you this morning. Wasn't feeling too great," he apologised.
" Don't worry about it. But you are ok, aren't you?" Leah asked. Alex could hear the concern in her voice. He smiled.
" I'm here aren't I? If I wasn't feeling too good, do you think I'd be here of all places?"
Leah laughed. " You'd be down the beach surfing if you were feeling sick, rather then in bed, like you should be."
Alex smiled. She knew him too well.

" Anyway, I saw those posters with the school dance advertised on it. Who are you going to ask?"[/color][/size]

OOC: Tag Citrus. And I hope you don't mind us moving to English.

[Citrus]

[SIZE=1]OOC: Ok people! This is the last class of the day. The school dismisses at 2:50, then you can hang out with your friends and such. I will be putting up a post in the Underground with hang out places. During this event you will be able to post more than two times.

OOC: I just noticed that the seatign arrangement came out too small... which makes me mad. SO if you can just squint really hard, or just PM me to see where you sit.
----------------------

Leah shook her head. She never actually knew if Alex had liked her back, it was always an awkward experience when they flirted once in a while. And telling the truth Leah said

"I don't know. I might just go by myself to just hang out."

"So your gonna be a wallflower?"

Leah laughed and slightly slapped him on the shoulder. Then when she looked over to the right she saw Quincy holding B. Leah walked over to the two and the awkward silence fell.

"Um.. what happened here?"

"I accidently bumped into this... fair young lady." Quincy gazed into B's eyes as she did to him.

"Alrighty now... I'll see you two in class.." Leah spun around on one heel and left the two to their little awkward moment. SHe chuckled a bit and walked in with Alex to English class.

As usual Mrs. Sherman was tapping away at her keyboard waiting for the bell to ring. She stood up with a neatly printed white paper (yes again).

"New seating arrangements. I do not want any of you moving around, because I have my eye on all of you." Her eyes quickly glanced across all of the students and then went around pointing to a desk and announcing the name.


[IMG]http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y239/IceQueen12/SEATINGARANGEMENT.jpg[/IMG]

Leah sighed, she wasn't seated near Sammy or B. But there was a major plus. Alex was sitting right in front of her. She smiled as she gazed at the back of his head. Then she suddenly remembered the note from Sammy that she forgot to finish reading.

She took out the note and read it.

"Well, I'm not worried. But I am a bit--let down, for lack of better description. I really adore Bianca, and I am happy that she is happy with her choice. But I can't help but feel a bit left out--I guess I was being selfish in thinking that she would ask me to the dance, or say 'yes' if I had asked her.

I don't know what I'm supposed to do, Leah."

Then the secret that she had tried to ply out of him was finally revealed. Sammy liked B instead of her. She let out a sigh of depression and looked down at the note. Thoughts ran through her head like crazy, she couldn't even think straight.

She kept on saying to herself, "It's just the way it goes, don't let yoruself down." When the teacher said it was time for SSR (Silent Sustained Reading) she took out her book. It was in Chinese, her mother forced her to read it. She opened the book to page 159.

Leah was reading it but not actualyl paying attention to it. She was somewhere in space, thinking of waht to do next. Alex turned around.

"What's wrong?"

It was very weird. Everytime Leah was feeling down about something, Alex would sense it right away.

"Just..."

Leah whispered the whole story to Alex who soaked up every word. Mrs. Sherman looked up from her typing.

"Cease your conversation."

Alex turned around and continued her book. Then he turned around once more about 5 seconds later.

"Can... I ask you something?"

Leah nodded and put her book mark in her book. The page read.

Chapter 10: All's Fair In Love And War[/SIZE]

[Redemption]

[color=#6600cc][size=1][b]Thursday - Afternoon last class[/b]

" Can... I ask you something?" Alex asked quietly, sounding a little edgy. He watched Leah nod and bookmark her page. " Well, I was wondering, if you've noticed all these romances around here? it's a little creepy how everyone is having little accidents with their crush."

He could see Leah's face fall a little, but immediately brightened up.

" Yeah.... it's a little strange. But you can't keep a secret forever I guess."
" Hmm...."

Secrets.... Alex knew all to well about them. No one knew at school that his parents died in a plane crash when he was 9, in primary school. Nor that he had been living by himself since then. He was jealous of Leah for having her mum still alive. The thing was, he could barely remember his parents.

Before they died, they used to leave him with a babysitter all the time. It was lucky that the babysitter was a nice person, and taught Alex who he is today. He knew what it felt like to be alone.

Shaking his head, Alex pushed those memories away and smiled at Leah.

" So what are you doing after school? Hanging out with the girls I suppose?"
" I don't know really. What about you?"
" I've got to work at Surf Val. You know, make a living so I can survive."
" Are you going to surf this afternoon?"
" Thinking about it. Depends on the conditions when I get down to Work. Jordan might let me take a half hour break to have a surf if it's good."

" Mr Jacobs!" the teacher scolded. " Silent Reading! Does that mean anything to you?"
Alex turned around and flashed a smile. " Oh course it doesn't sir. You expect a boy my age to keep quiet with all these pretty girls around?"

The class sniggered and the teacher pursed his lips.
" That's enough Mr Jacobs otherwise you'll make a trip to the principal."
" Remind me to take that bottle of scotch with me, sir," Alex answered before burying himself in a book, leaning back on his chair.[/color][/size]

[Sinistra]

[SIZE=1]From Creative Writing to English, Brandi was reunited with her friends and some of the classmates from History, the most important in her mind being Michael. [I]'Should I make my move?'[/I] She kept thinking throughout the Silent Sustained Reading. She could hardly keep up with the text of Les' Miserables. There was just too much on her mind at the moment.

[I]'What if he says no? Can I ever face him after that? No! I can't think like that. C'mon Brandi! Snap out of it. You can do this. If I can just say 'Hi.' I'll be fine.'[/I] She thought to herself.

Whenever Brandi was most nervous, she began to revert to her native language. French. It was the biggest sign that she was around someone she was almost uncomfortable with. This case was her crush, and it was becoming more and more obvious.

[I]'Are you okay?'[/I] Leah mouthed out the words to her, a look of concern crossing her face. Brandi could only nod in return.

[I]'Je dois croire, je peux faire ceci.'[/I] Brandi thought. [I]'I have to believe, I can do this.'[/I]

[I]'That's all I have to do is say one word.'[/I] She nodded her head in reassurance.

[B]"Miss Morgan. What are you doing?"[/B] Mr. Sherman asked, his voice sending a miniscule wave of intimidation into Brandi's mind.

[B]"Rien professeur. J'étais pensée juste."[/B] She blurted out.

[B]"What?"[/B] He stood up, drawing the classes attention to her. Odd looks from everyone only seemed to get more onto Brandi's nerves.

[B]"Nothing sir. I was just just thinking."[/B] She said calmly, sighing.

[B]"I told you to speak [I]English[/I] in my class. You might be French, but I want you to speak otherwise."[/B] Mr. Sherman said sternly.

[B]"Yes sir."[/B] She nodded feverishly.

She turned enough to see Michael turn his gaze back into his book, and she tried her hardest to hide the small blush that began to appear on her face behind the book.[/SIZE]

[Annie]

[size=1][color=indigo]Sammy leant against the lockers outside of the classroom and shoved his hands into his front pockets. He smiled at Leah whenever she hurriedly took off into the hall. She smiled back and waved. He didn't see Bianca, but did manage to wave down Quincy.

[i]"I guess I should talk to him. He's one of my better friends. Well, guy friends. I just hope he doesn't freak out on me,"[/i] Sammy exasperated a sigh and walked up to Quincy.

[b]"Sheesh, that had to be the longest class of the year,"[/b] Quincy grunted, [b]"Why couldn't I have graduated last year?"

"Because, you know-it-all, you love me and couldn't bear to part from me,"[/b] Sammy slung his arm around Quincy's shoulder.

[b]"You are pathetic, you know that?"[/b] he groaned and shrugged Sammy's grip off.

With not knowing where to really start, Sammy's left hand fidgeted with the bottom of his shirt. His stomach knotted and churned. Not only was this mentally exhausting, it was also a crush to his pride. It wasn't that he didn't get the girl, but the fact that Bianca didn't talk to him about it. He was quite proud of his friendship with her, and felt that there was nothing between them. But then again, he never really got up the nerve to tell her exactly how he felt about her.

[b]"Samuel, are you all right?"[/b] Quincy gently shoved his friend across the hall.

[b]"I, uh..Yeah, I'm fine,"[/b] Sammy let go of his now sweaty hold on his shirt, leaving it wrinkled.

Staring in disbelief, Quincy paused and gave Sammy a cocked eyebrow.

[b]"C'mon, Samuel. You're never this deep and quiet. What's going on?"[/b]

Knowing full well that Quincy wouldn't stop staring at him, Sammy nodded and started to explain.

[b]"Well, I guess the best way to begin is to say that I have an incredibly passionate adoration for Bianca. I've had this painful crush on her since she first smiled at me. For the past few years, I've been the chicken little in not saying a word about it. Mostly, because of my reputation, and I wasn't quite sure how she would react. I'm her best friend, and she's my best friend,"[/b] Sammy waved his hands nervously and looked at Quincy; he nodded and muttered an "mhmm".

[b]"So, I never worked up the guts to confront her. I didn't want her to think that we couldn't be friends anymore. But with each and passing day within the past year and a half, I can't help but feel more for her. I'd love to be with her. And I'd love for her to feel the same about me. Then, this dance comes along,"[/b] Sammy stopped and brushed his hair from his face, laughing as Quincy tilted his head back to moan aloud, [b]"Yeah. Well, on the way to science, I ran into that Gabby broad and her followers. They had, uh, mentioned Bianca. I stopped and listened. I found out who she's going to ask to the dance."

"Who, Gabby or Bianca?"

"Gabby...and Bianca. See,"[/b] Sammy stopped walking and turned to face Quincy, [b]"Gabby thinks she's going to steal you."

" 'Steal' me? From what, or who?"[/b] Quincy then folded his arms tightly under his chest.

[b]"From Bianca."[/b]

Sammy bit his bottom lip and huffed lightly. Quincy blinked, but remained candid. For what seemed to be hours, Quincy and Sammy stared at one another. Students rushed by to get to their classrooms. The hum of the hallway nearly suffocated Sammy, as if the numbness of fear wasn't enough to close in on him. Finally, Quincy moved with running his hand over his mouth and chin.

[b]"Huh,"[/b] was all he said before turning and walking.

[b]"Tha-That's all you're going to say?"[/b] Sammy stuttered, nearly tripping over his own foot before following.

[b]"We--oof!"[/b] Quincy started before doubling back and dropping his book, [b]"Watch it, oaf."[/b]

Quincy grumbled and knelt down to pick up his book. Sammy looked over his shoulder to see Bianca crumpled on the floor.

[b]"Oh, snap!"[/b] Sammy crouched and started to lift her to her feet, [b]"Breathe slowly, okay, hun?"

"Oh, oh dear. Bianca, I'm sorry. I thought you were some stupid child,"[/b] Quincy politely apologized and helped Sammy lift her.

[b]"B, you okay?"[/b] Sammy held onto her elbow.

[b]"Yes, I'm fine. Thank you,"[/b] she smiled weakly, nodded and held out her hand to let him know she was okay. Sammy swallowed his words and bent down to pick up her books. Attempting to give her a sincere and apologetic nod, he handed her the textbooks and flipped her ponytail. Thanking them, she turned to head over to Leah.

Quincy was the first to clear his throat and fix his glasses. Sammy then clapped his hands together and took in a breath.

[b]"So, I'll see you around,"[/b] Sammy coughed and scratched at the back of his neck before heading off to English, [b]"Oh, if you can make it, the courtyard. I want to bust that conference in a few days. See what the hell's going on around here."[/b]

With that, Sammy turned and almost skipped off. He turned the corner and made sure Quincy wasn't behind him. Noticing that he was the only person in the hall, he spun to slam his fist into a locker and place his forehead against it. The pain in his hand really didn't phase him. He had done worse to his body in the past. What was bothering him was the empty look on Quincy's face when he told him Bianca wanted to go to the dance with him. Was he surprised, was he angry, was he concerned, was he sympathetic for Sammy? There was no way of knowing, unless he had replied.

Upset, Sammy pushed in the English door and proceeded to his seat without as much as blinking at Mr. Sherman. Sammy plopped in his seat and started in on squeezing his shoulder. He stared into the fake wood's grain on his desktop, hoping to see some sort of resolution; an answer to the madness that slowly set into his brain.

[i]"It's only high school drama. You hate drama, Samuel Carter. This is something only chicks do. So she likes Quincy, big deal. She's still your friend. Don't let this come between your friendship.."[/i] Sammy kept coaching to himself.

[b]"Earth to Mr. Carter,"[/b] Mr. Sherman tapped the chalkboard.

[b]"Sorry, teach,"[/b] Sammy realized his neck began to burn with his furious massaging and stopped to straighten out his shirt.

Finally taking a look around, he saw that he was sitting just to Hitomi's left. He never quite got to know this girl. All he knew was that she was just as much of a trouble-maker as he was, and she was really quite the quiet one. She seemed okay in his book. Next, he noticed Alex Jacobs and Jason, gave them a half-hearted wave and saw Leah reading the note. He knew he had hurt her feelings as she slowly folded the note and played with it lazily.

Sammy turned back around in his chair to put his hands behind his head and wait for what Mr. Sherman had to teach today. Just as the bell was about to ring, Brandi Morgan darted into the class. She was a cute girl, always nice to Sammy whenever they spoke; but he never took the time to get to know her. After her little session in the front of the class, she hurried to her seat and took out her class supplies. The bell rang, and began the last class of the day.

Sammy wondered if anyone would show up in the courtyard after school. If not, he decided he should have a back up plan and started to think of ideas on what to do.[/size][/color]

[Kitty]

[COLOR=#006aaf][SIZE=1]Bianca was still a bit red after her embarrassing bump into Quincy before class, and the fact that she had been seated next to him wasn't helping her return to her regular color. The silent reading was nice, aside for the fact that she wasn't really reading.

Her mind was only concentrated on what Quincy had said, and whether or not it meant anything, and if he knew she liked him already or not, and what her chances were with him, and what she would do if he turned her down, and so many other things all at once, she was beginning to get dizzy.

The questions and doubt and worry flooded her mind, while her eyes constantly stole glances of him as he read his book quietly. And then, she began to wonder what he was thinking about while he calmly sat there, so peaceful and thoughtful, probably enjoying his book and not even knowing she was right there staring at him.

Then she noticed she had been pretend-reading for the past ten minutes without flipping the page, and nearly ripped the page out as she turned it, hoping against hope that Quincy had not noticed.

Bianca, taking a deep breath, waited as the thoughts in her head slowly quieted down until she could hear the murmurs and coughs of the rest of her class again. She turned the page of her book again (not wanting to forget again), and took another quick look at Quincy. However, this time, their eyes met.

Their eyes were locked for what felt like forever, but was probably only a few seconds before each turned away. Bianca's head, having just quieted down, erupted into thought again.

And she knew that her face was [i]still[/i] red.[/SIZE][/COLOR]

[Citrus]

[SIZE=1]Leah sighed. It wasn?t so much that Sammy liked B; it was the secret that he was keeping from her. She was really upset; Sammy and she were very close. But he kept a secret from her so long; it might have scarred their friendship. Alex was leaning back in his chair Leah, like always decided she could flirt with him. Leah made sure that the teacher was still deep into typing away, and then she came up close to Alex?s head and blew into his ear.

He immediately turned around still a little shocked from the blow. Leah giggled and he poked her on her side.

?Ah!?

A slight shriek escaped Leah?s mouth. She quickly covered it. Mrs. Sherman looked over.

?Well instead of the timer going off, Miss. Ngoon has decided to alert us all that SSR time is up. Everyone put your book away and take out your notebooks.? Mrs. Sherman got up from her desk and walked to the middle of the class.

?As you all know today is a Thursday. Which means you won?t be seeing me tomorrow. Three classes a day and you switch off to the other three the next.?

Mrs. Sherman always went over this, it was quite annoying. Alex turned around and placed a note on Leah?s desk. Lots of shrugging, note passing, and awkward moments seemed to be going on today.

?So! I am going to pass out progress reports and we shall begin our lesson.?

Leah opened the note, and her eyes ran across his writing.

[B][I]Why don?t you come to Surf Val today? We can hang out. It?ll be fun. Just come okay?[/I][/B]

?I?ll come.? Leah whispered loud enough for Alex to hear. He turned around and smiled. His milky white teeth showed, they made Leah feel warm inside. Kind of the same way Sammy?s did. Leah closed her eyes and shook her head.

She turned to her right and looked down the aisle next to her hers. She spotted B who was writing something in her notebook. Was she ever going to be able to look at her the same? Who knows, the drama was way to much. She needed someone to help her cope with it all.

Leah ran a finger down Alex?s back. She watched him squirm and laughed to herself. The teacher blabbed on for minutes. It seemed like the last period flew by. The bell rang and Mrs. Sherman waited a few minutes before saying.

?See you Monday.?

The kids got up and filed out the door.

?Hey I?ll see you at Surf Val then kay?? Leah nodded and Alex ran off to get to work on time.

As she turned around she saw Sammy and B walking up to her.

?Hey.? Sammy said and forced on a weak smile.

Leah rolled her eyes and started to walk off.

?What?s wrong with you??

?B, just like, shut up.?

B was absolutely dumbfounded at Leah?s comment. She stood there just looking at her.

?Why are you looking at me like that? Stop it. Why don?t you go run off with Sammy and have some ?fun?. You two deserve each other; you both think you run the show. B thinks she can get all the guys and Sammy thinks that people won?t get their feelings hurt. So whatever.?

Leah was holding a finger up and swaying her head from right to left the whole time she talked. She turned on one heel and walked away. Leaving Sammy and B stunned and confused.[/SIZE]

[Annie]

[size=1][color=indigo][b]"What in the world was that about?"[/b] Bianca stared after Leah. Sammy knew what the cause was, but he never expected Leah to act this way. With a heavy, and guilt-weighed sigh, he took Bianca's wrist and pulled her off to the side.

[b]"We have to talk,"[/b] Sammy squeezed her hand softly.

[b]"O-okay. When? I thought we were meeting up in the courtyard,"[/b] B's eyes darted over his face, searching him like always.

[b]"I doubt anyone's going to show up. Everyone seems to be so caught up in this stupid dance and worrying about who they want to take,"[/b] Sammy almost spat, but caught himself before he slipped, [b]"I say we leave now, and go to Timber Valley Park. I haven't been there in years."

"Sure thing,"[/b] B smiled, lacing her fingers in Sammy's and swinging his arm.

Sammy nodded and kicked open one of the side exits. B, a bit confused at his actions, walked out first and the two started out of the campus. School busses and carpools flooded the roads, forcing the two to take the "long way" to the park. The entire walk was silent and swift. Sammy thought he heard his name being called, but didn't even bother to look back. He had his nerve, he was pumped up and ready to confess to Bianca. If he looked back at her, or anyone else, the edge would be gone and make a fool of himself.

[b]"Jesus, Sammy, my legs aren't as long as yours,"[/b] B jogged to catch up.

[b]"Almost there, munchkin,"[/b] he joked, taking her hand again and pulling her along.

The two finally reached the gates of the park. Like he had always remembered, the park was peaceful and calm. Ocassionally, there were a few couples walking their dogs and a family picnicing in the middle of the park. For the most part, Timber Valley Park was all Sammy's and Bianca's. Slowing his pace, letting B catch her breath, they walked into the park and circled around the water fountain.

[b]"Man, we don't come here enough,"[/b] B sighed tossing a penny into the fountain.

[b]"Yeah,"[/b] Sammy smiled, [b]"C'mon, I want to show you my secret spot in this place."[/b]

He held out his right hand, his left in his pocket. B gave a playful bow and took his hand with a delicate grip. It was the best day of the week to walk around in the park. The day was warm, but had a Spring-like breeze that kept them cool. Sammy listened in amusement as B went on about a class assignment that she was sure was going to give her grey hair. All the while, he never made one sound of laughter or taunting. Instead, he lead the way across the meadow and into a neglected area of the park. The iron gates were rusted and the grass was overrun with weeds and wild Jasmine. It was like walking into a secret garden that hadn't been attended to in ages. There were antique playground equipment and benches, little gravel pathways that lead down into a small pond area. There was hardly any water left in it, but enough to make a cool spot to sit down on the rocks that portruded from the surface.

[b]"Wow,"[/b] B held tightly to Sammy's hand as she wobbled to keep her balance on the rocks, [b]"It's really pretty down here--in a strange, sad reason."

"I like to call this place 'Cemetary Drive'. It reminds me of one of those really old cemetaries that people have abandoned over the years. It's sad and lonely, but so beautiful,"[/b] Sammy sat down on a flat boulder, pulling on B's hand to sit next to him.

[b]"That is really depressing, Sammy. What's wrong? You're starting to worry me now,"[/b] B sat beside him, but faced him with her hands on her knees.

[b]"You have to promise me that whatever I say, you'll keep your mind open and free from bias. I'm tired of keeping this from you, and I want to be your friend no matter what,"[/b] Sammy folded his legs Indian style and leaned forward, talking quietly.

B simply nodded and sat the same way.

[b]"Bianca, I first want to apologize for Leah's behavior towards you. She shouldn't have went off on you. It should've been me. See, I found out about you wanting to go to the dance with Quincy,"[/b] he paused to see B blink in embarassment, [b]"I'll admit, I was upset. But it was your choice, and I wouldn't let anyone else take you to the dance. Quincy's a good man, I'd trust him to be alone with you. I just was more upset about the fact you never said anything about him...and I had to find out through Gabby."[/b]

B shifted, looking away. Sammy shook his head and cupped her face with one hand, [b]"That doesn't mean I'm mad at you, hun. I can't be mad at you for something that silly. I mean, who am I to talk? Bianca, I'm trying to tell you that I'm mad about you. I've had a crush on you since the first time I met you, and I've just been too scared to say anything. And I guess I just felt dismissed when I heard Gabby spill the news. But..I guess I am just selfish for thinking you could like me the same way, and go to the dance with me. Leah acted the way she did because she found out that I like you, and not her. I'm so sorry if I ruined your friendship with her."[/b]

Letting go of her face, Sammy folded his hands in his lap and stared into the shallow water. [/size][/color]

[SlowChemical]

[SIZE=1]Hitomi opened up her locker. She dropped all her textbooks inside her backpack. She even through in some textbooks she didn?t even need to do for homework. She didn?t care she just wanted out of the school fast as possible. Hitomi swung her backpack over her shoulder.
?Ughff?? Hitomi said feeling the heavy weight on her. She walked out to the courtyard to go straight home. Suzu ran after her as she forgot she was supposed to go home with him for the evening.
?Hitomi aren?t you going to my house?? Suzu said after catching his breath and catching after her.
? Uhh?? Hitomi looked at him dumfounded. She slapped her forehead in remembrance.
?Ohh I forgot Suzu!? Hitomi said apologetic ?I?m so sorry??
Suzu seemed pretty upset by her forgetting but tried to hide it
?Ohh well that okay?? Suzu scratched her head
?How does this sound? Lets not go to you house but to Café Lite? I buy you a nice cappuccino! Does that sound okay??
?Uhh sure I?ll be happy too?? Suzu said being cheerful again.
Hitomi went up to the counter and got there orders. She got her bag and pulled out her money. She thanked her mother for giving her allowance. Actually it was Tim who gave her, her allowance. If she could she would have built a fire with the money Tim gives her. Yet money has so much value in the world. She couldn?t just burn it all. She had to spend it on her dance dress or the materials to make it. What a horrible thing the school has bestowed to the students making dances.
Hitomi went to the table Suzu picked up for them. She gave him his drink and sat down with hers. Hitomi drank hers in silence. They basically sat there not talking to each other. How can the even start a conversation? Hitomi wasn?t much of a talker. She just wished Suzu just start talking. But not with a corny joke then she had to punch him. Suzu probably wanted her to start the conversation too.
?Uhh?about that dance?.Don?t you think it is a bit silly?? Hitomi started
?Uhh? What do you mean?? Suzu asked puzzled
?Well think about! The teachers and principle making up dress up. Putting music and making us dance with each other. It makes me feel like a puppet kinda you know??
?You mean you don?t want to go??
?No not like that?? Hitomi stopped and took a long sip of her drink ?I just think it just a bit silly?? After that Hitomi and Suzu stood in total silence. Hitomi didn?t feel like talking after that weird moment. Hitomi sighed and looked out the window watching people pass the café.[/SIZE]

[Sinistra]

[SIZE=1]Brandi was one of the first out of class. She was way too embarrassed to face anyone after her little display. With her face blushing furiously, she ran straight for her locker and out the door.

------------

Finding herself across the street from Café Lite, Brandi just decided to go home. Seeing Suzu and Hitomi through the window only made her want to keep walking and that craving for the StrawberryBanana Smoothie had long left her.

[I]'Yeah Brandi. Great job! You really won Michael over with that performance back there!'[/I] She thought to herself. [I]'Man, I should go bang my head against a wall!'[/I]

------------

Arriving home in Province Circle, Brandi slowed her fast paced walk to a mere step. She sighed in relief. [B]"Hopefully...no one will remember that."[/B] She said. [B]"Especially him."[/B]

Apartment #219 was her home, And while Brandi kicked off her shoes and set down her bag, a message was developing on the answering machine.

[B]"Hey Brandi. It's me, your big cousin Jeremy!"[/B] A sarcastic tone filled the room. [B]"I know that you'll be happy to see me. Your parents called and invited me to dinner since I'm in town. You know what I want, have it ready when I get there. Seven-thirty sharp."[/B]

It followed with a quick click.

[B]"Just when I thought I could relax."[/B] Brandi moaned. [B]"Stupid Jeremy."[/B]

She played the other message back and it was from her mother. [B]"Hi sweetie, we'll be getting back around seven thirty from work, okay? We're also inviting Jeremy to dinner. He's in town for a business conference for a couple days and I figured it would be fine. Bye hun!"[/B]

While Brandi listened, she was rummaging through the cupboards to see if there were any ingredients to make Jeremy's favorite dinner, Tuna Casserole.

[B]"There's no tuna...or noodles."[/B] She said to herself. [B]"I guess I have to go to the store."[/B]

Minutes later, she was back in the main streets of Timber Valley on her way to the Grocery Store.[/SIZE]

[Redemption]

[color=#6600cc][size=1][b]Thursday - Afternoon - Surf Val[/b]

Puffing slightly, Alex entered through the doors of the surfing/wind surfing shop [i]Surf Val[/i]. Jordan looked to see who it was, and gave a smile when he saw Alex enter the shop.

" Bout time you showed up Alex."
" Busy day huh?" Alex said, going behind the counter, his surfboard in his arms. There were a few customers wandering around the shop, looking at the merchandise. In the back room, Alex changed his school shirt to his [i]Surf Val[/i] shirt. He came back out to the counter to serve a customer.

Alex finished with his customer when Leah entered the shop. He smiled and walked up to her.
" So, how's it going?" he asked.
" Not bad. Busy today?" Leah said, looking at all the people browsing around.
" Not really. More sticky-beaks than anything. Can you wait a sec? I'll go see Jordan if I can go for a surf. The conditions are really good today."
" Sure."

Alex rushed off and came back with a huge grin and his surf board under his arm.
" He gave me an hour. I'm a lucky man."
Leah smiled. " You are very lucky."
" So lets go."

The two walked out of building and headed down to the beach, which was only a few minutes' walk. The Australian sun beat down upon them. It was still fairly hot in the afternoon - a perfect temperature to go for a swim.

As soon as they got there, the two saw that the patrolled section of the beach was packed. It was normal on such a hot day like this. Seeing how crowded it was, they made their way up the beach towards another patrolled section, but a little less known. Alex put down his surfboard and took off his shirt to expose his muscular body.

" So, are you going to have a swim? I'd really like to see you in a pair of bikinis or a nice one-piece." He gave Leah a wink before he picked up his surfboard and headed towards the surf.

" Come on Leah! The water's great!" he yelled back at her as he entered the salty surf.[/color][/size]

[Citrus]

[SIZE=1]Leah laughed a bit.

"I will in a couple of minutes!"

She leaned back in sand, her elbows slightly digging themselves into it. The warmth felt good on her skin, Leah closed her eyes and tilted her head backwards. With a deep inhale and exhale she opened them and looked toward the surf. Alex and some other guys were the only ones surfing. Other people were just tourists, they sat in the shallow end sunbathing.

Leah got up and went to a restroom to change. She had brought along her bikini, the top was red and the bottom peice was white. The colors of her homeland, Singapore. But most people thought it was just a fashions statement if she was wearing it.


When she returned she placed her hands on her hips and looked around. She slowly proceeded towards the water. When she got near she tested it with her foot. It was warm.

Satisfied she dove in, getting her body compltely wet. She arose and Alex was swimming toward her on top of his board.

"Hey, you got in!"

Leah placed her arms across the board keeping herself afloat.

"So you goin' to this dance?"

"Mhm."

Alex smirked. "Who you gonna ask?"

"Aren't the guys supposed to ask? And do you have someone in mind?"

"Yea, its a secret."

"Tell me." Leah leaned over the board to get closer to his face.

"Make me..."

Leah felt him lean closer as well. She placed her lips gently upon his, she slightly tilted her head. Alex gave in and returned the kiss. The warmth of his lips made her feel a warm sensation. It was as if she was waiting for this moment for a lifetime.

"So I think I know who your gonna take to the dance."

Leah laughed and Alex gazed at her. It was obvious he was waiting for this moment as well.[/SIZE]

[Redemption]

[color=#6600cc][size=1][b]Thursday - Afternoon - Beach[/b]

Alex smiled deviously at Leah.
" Now now, that kiss won't do my reputation any good. Aren't I supposed to be a playboy, or so I've heard?"
" A playboy?" Leah asked, confused.
" Well, apparently, I've been going out with heaps of girls and dumping them as soon as I find a better one."
" You? Going out with a heap of girls?"
Alex could see a little jealousy in her eyes. He laughed. " No need to get jealous Leah. You know perfectly well that I haven't had a girlfriend since the 8th grade. Not that I haven't had my fair share of offers."

The ripples of waves lolled them around, Alex with his chest to the surfboard, Leah hanging onto it. The sun's heat was hot, even in the water.
" So, are you going to ask or what?" Leah questioned coyly.
" Hmm... maybe..." Alex replied, trying to sound off-handed, " Maybe I already know what the answer is. Unless, of course, Sammy has already asked you to go."[/color][/size]

[Revelation]

[size=1][color=#7D8593]Finally the day had ended and Michael was able to leave the prison that the adults called ?School? that he called everyday except for today, which was strange. When he saw Brandi leaving, his heart pitted into his stomach and he could feel it turning and flipping, this girl was truly something to him and he couldn?t imagine not seeing her again. The way her words rolled off of her lips, the soft tone in her voice, the gentle eyes that sparkled in the light, everything about her was spectacular and he could see that she was beautiful and not cute, adorable, or hot like most guys at his school would think of girls. He was entirely fathomed by her and couldn?t stand a minute not to wonder who she was beneath the exterior.

With a sigh, Michael had found Dameon outside, walking towards the courtyard. He would have called to him or walked to him, soon enough his walk was interrupted by a melody of Fall Out Boy- Dance, Dance, one of the many ring tones that played on his phone. Michael looked at the caller I.D. and realized that work was beckoning him in. With a sigh, Michael picked up and could already hear the sounds of his work bustling into his ears, while his manager?s voice was loud and clear.

[B]?Mikey, where are you??

?I?m on my way, I just got out of school, Donny. Why??

?Nothing, just that lil? Charlie just quit, sayin? it wasn?t his scene anymore.?[/B] Michael heard a thank you and here you go on the other line, listening to Donny work before he started to talk on the phone again. [B]?So, anyways, I need someone to cover his shift, which is ?til closing. What do you say, can you do it??[/B]

Thinking for a while, Michael had made his decision. [B]?Yeah, sure, no problem. I?ll be in as soon as I can.?[/B]

The two exchanged their good byes and Michael closed his cell phone, putting it back into its rightful place. He then sighed and headed towards his car. He got into his car, throwing his backpack and miscellaneous items into the backseat and drove off towards Café Lite, his place of work. While driving down the road, Michael couldn?t help but to think of what Brandi would think of the song he had made for her, what she might say when he would ask her, what she might do, just exactly what. It nearly suffocated him just to hypothetically believe she would do, say, or think something when he never even had the courage to talk to her the way he had always wanted to and not the way they talked with each other, as a friend. Finally, Michael pulled up into the employee section of the parking lot and shut his engine off, thinking that maybe work would help him calm his nerve-racking anxiety.[/size][/color]

[Kitty]

[COLOR=#006aaf][SIZE=1]Bianca sat across from Sammy, legs still folded, and her mouth hanging slightly open. As he spoke, she was flooded with guilt and confusion. But at the same time, she understood. Every question that popped into her head was answered just as fast. She was so close to him, she even knew the way he thought and why he thought it. It was beginning to excite her. The thought of someone being madly in love with [i]her[/i] was romantic and exhilarating. And then, she began to worry.

[i]"What will this do to him? To me? To.. us?"[/i] Bianca thought quietly. The serene calm of Cemetary Drive just made the silence even more awkward. It was hard to think, and even harder to keep her eyes away from Sammy. She stood up suddenely, deciding that being outside would be better for her to think. She took a few steps, but turned back and attempted to sound positive when talking to him.

[b]"Sammy? Um.. I'm going to go.. outside. I'll be back. Wait for me... okay?"[/b]

Sammy lifted his head and nodded. But the look on his face, so serious and full of worry and doubt and hope and sadness all at the same time, melted away her false calm. Without another word, she stepped across the stones and past the old park equipment and through the iron gate. She stood for a moment before collapsing onto the weeds.

[b]"Lets see if I have the story straight. Leah hates me because Sammy is in love with me, and he's upset with me because I didn't tell him about Quincy even though there's really nothing to tell, and Gabby's going to compete with me for Quincy, when I don't even know who I like anymore because of all of this, and all the while, I'm oblivious to everything everyone's doing and have to find out now... Wonderful."[/b]

Bianca sat up and rested her head in her hands. She rubbed her eyes as she moaned in annoyance. She had always managed to avoid all the drama that was a high school social life with Sammy and Leah, and now one hated her apparently, and she couldn't look the other in the face now without feeling horribly guilty.

[b]"Now.. do I go back in there and face the weirdness now? Or do I walk away and screw things up even worse than they already are, like I'm so good at doing?"[/b] she sighed. She stood up slowly, wiping off the remaining grass from her pants, and reopened the iron gate. She walked in and headed towards where Sammy had been sitting. When he came into view again, he was standing, but other than that, had not moved at all.

As she approached, Bianca's pace sped up. She ran towards him, starting to call something out to him, but only getting out, [b]"Sammy, I-"[/b] before tripping on one of the rocks and falling forward.

[b]"Careful!"[/b] Sammy shouted, rushing over to catch her. As she fell into his arms, she looked up at him and felt herself turn a bit red. They stared at one another for what felt like a long time, and when their gaze was finally broken, they both coughed awkwardly as he helped her up and returned his hands to his pockets.

[b]"So.. Sammy.. What I was saying was.. This is a hell of a lot of stuff to find out in one sitting."[/b]

[b]"Yeah.. I know. Sorry,"[/b] Sammy sighed, lowering his gaze to her feet. But she hit herself in the forehead for sounding so mean and then took his hands out of his pockets and held them in front of her.

[b]"What I mean is... I'm not sure what's going to happen, now that I know. I just need a little bit more time to think about things. I'm going to go find Leah and see if I can get her to stop being mad at me, and then I'll meet back up with you for the meeting after school. We can talk afterwards."[/b]

When she finished, the two of them were silent. She was still holding his hands, but what was really startling was how she'd never noticed how cute he looked with his hair in his eyes like that. The feelings of confusion and excitement, that had never really left, resurged through her, and the rush led her to pull his face towards hers and kiss him. It was short, and just a touching of lips, but it felt so nice. So right. When she opened her eyes again, she saw Sammy (barely) standing in front of her, blushing a mad red color, and obviously trying to speak but having a hard time making anything come out.

[b]"See you later then.. I guess,"[/b] Bianca mumbled, turning away and heading towards the way out.[/SIZE][/COLOR]

[Annie]

[size=1][color=indigo]Sammy stood frozen, his arms rested in the position Bianca left them. He couldn't move, or blink, much less breathe. He finally snapped out of his stun and stared lightly after Bianca as she sort of--bounced out of Cemetary Drive. Her soft, tropical perfume, the taste of her sugary lipgloss, her arousing charisma lingered around Sammy. He scruffed his hair and ran his hand down his face. Sighing happily, he started towards the exit of the park.

His feet took control as he glided over the sidewalks and streets. He must've had a smirk plastered across his face because people pointed and made the "awe" face. His nerves throbbed with feelings he had never felt before, his adrenaline pumped, thoughts of nothing but Bianca's touch rushed through his mind. Before he knew it, he found himself standing in front of Café Lite.

[i]"I could use a drink. Something strong to iron me out.."[/i] Sammy thought, pulling the door open.

The café was a buzz with students just venting the day's events at school. Popular music flowed just dimly over the noise of gossip and laughter. From what Sammy went through today, this atmosphere was just what he needed. He looked over the crowd to see if he recognized anyone. Deciding it was impossible to pick out one face, Sammy took a stroll over to the espresso bar and placed an order for a hazelnut latte. He sat on a high stool and looked down the bar to see Michael making his drink.

[b]"Yo, Mikey! Hold the spit, will ya?"[/b] Sammy's deep voice acted like a loudspeaker, his cupped hands amplifying his accent.

[b]"Sure thing, man. How about something other than milk?!"[/b] Michael winked.

[b]"Very funny, jerk,"[/b] Sammy shook a finger.

Michael chuckled as he waltzed over to his friend. He made sure the lid was fastened snuggly, and leant over the bar.

[b]"So, what's goin' on with the Sam-meister?"[/b]

[b]"Man, I don't know where to begin,"[/b] Sammy sipped cautiously,[b] "What time you here til?"

"They've got me closing,"[/b] Michael moaned and scratched under his chin, [b]"Well, it's back to work for me. Come by later tonight, yeah?"

"All right, kid,"[/b] Sammy waved and rested elbows on the bar, [b]"We'll see."[/b][/size][/color]

[Sinistra]

[SIZE=1]Brandi was just getting back from the store when she had decided on a whim to get that StrawberryBanana Smoothie. It didn't seem like anyone was in there when she looked in upon first glance. However, walking in, she watched as Sammy shot around in his seat. He was about to leave, but stayed for just a moment.

[B]"Hey."[/B] He said simply.

[B]"Hi."[/B] Brandi smiled back.

Sammy was always nice to Brandi, even if they didn't know each other very well.

[B]"What are you doing here?"[/B] He asked.

[B]"I was thirsty."[/B] She nodded, proceeding toward him. [B]"I had to get some things from the store."

"Oh? Making dinner?"

"Yeah. My cousin's coming over."

"I see."[/B]

During the entire time Brandi talked to Sammy, Michael wasn't in sight. If he was, Brandi might have walked right back out. However, he came out from the back and she froze.

He too, showed no sign of life at the moment. Both made a quick decision and Brandi sat down next to Sammy.

[B]"Hello."[/B] Michael greeted her.

[B]"Hi."[/B] She nodded in return.

[B]"Can I get you anything?"[/B] He asked.

[B]"A StrawberryBanana Smoothie."[/B] She replied.

[CENTER][I]'Good job Brandi. You're doing fine.'[/I][/CENTER]

[B]"Okay."[/B] He paused. [B]"Coming right up."[/B]

[B]"So, do you two know each other?"[/B] Sammy asked, confused at their behavior.

[B]"No."[/B] Brandi said.

[B]"But we're all in the same classes."[/B] He continued.

Michael shrugged as he made the drink.

[B]"Well then, Brandi, this is Michael. Michael, this is Brandi."[/B] Sammy smiled. [B]"Mikey's a friend of mine."[/B]

[B]"I could tell."[/B] Brandi smiled, almost paralyzed with nerves.

[CENTER][I]'It's okay. If you really need to, say you have to leave.'[/I][/CENTER]

[B]"Here you go."[/B] Michael handed it to her. [B]"That'll be two-seventy."[/B]

[B]"Okay."[/B] She pulled out the change from the store and handed him what was necessary. [B]"There you go."[/B]

[B]"Thanks."[/B] Michael said, taking the change.

[B]"Well, I have to go. Dinner doesn't make itself."[/B] Brandi said. [B]"Bye Sammy."[/B]

[B]"Bye Brandi."[/B]

[B]"Bye Michael. It was nice meeting you."[/B] She held out her hand.

He looked at it for a moment and then took it into his own, shaking her hand. [B]"No, the pleasure was all mine."[/B]

[B]"Okay then. Bye."[/B] She grabbed the drink and her bag, and walked out the door.

[B]"I can't believe it! I actually talked to him! And I didn't mess up!"[/B] Brandi screamed as she walked down the street. [B]"That so made up for earlier. Nothing can ruin my mood now. Nothing!"[/B][/SIZE]

[Citrus]

[SIZE=1]" Hmm... maybe..." Alex replied, trying to sound off-handed, " Maybe I already know what the answer is. Unless, of course, Sammy has already asked you to go."

Leah shivered, she had forgetten about Sammy, even B.

"No. He didn't. He wasn't going to, and I don't care."

Her sentences had a few breaks and pauses, she was very upset. She just really wanted to forget about the situation. The fury that took over her when she thought about one of them - or even them together made her even more mad. A secret was held from her for so long. Leah's relationship with the two had crumbled.

They were still floating in the middle of the water.

"Let's get out of here. We can go to Cafe Lite, I feel like having a drink." Alex nodded in agreement and they both swam toward the shore.



"So did something happen between you and Sammy?" Alex took Leah's hand as they walked down the sidewalk toward the Cafe.

"I don't want to talk about it." Leah's answer was short and blunt.

"Oh. Don't be sad though. It makes your beauty fade away..."

Alex stopped and spun Leah around to face him. He smiled and bent down slightly to kiss her. Their second kiss.

Leah broke away and smiled. "Ok, I wont."

They resumed walking down the sidewalks, Timber Valley was always bustling with excitement. It was almost Australia's New York City. The city itself was gigantic. The downtown part of it was filled with skyscrapers and office buildings. It is popularly known as "The Financial District". Because of all the money that was made in the sole area. And it's mountainous enviorment made it look like a utopia in the middle of a rainforest. Just one of the many beauties of Australia....

Alex led Leah into the cafe, a little bell rang as they opened the door. Sammy turned around to see who had entered. He blinked once.

"Oh c'mon!" Leah rolled her eyes and sighed in dissapointment.

"Please, Leah, listen to me." Sammy got up from his chair and made his way toward Leah and Alex. He paused a second and turned his eyes down toward the interlocked hands. Then he looked up at Leah, shaking his head lightly as to get rid of the confusion.

"But please Leah. I like Bianca and there is nothing that I can do about it. I know that it hurts you, but it hurts me that it hurts you. You know? We can still all be friends, theres no point in being mad at each other. I want you to know that B is the one I love. I still care for you, but not the same as B..."

Some hair fell into Samy's eyes as he talked. Leah shook her head.

"No. I am not listening to you... because you are a liar! You keep secrets from me for so long! How come you do this to me?! You know little about girl! Feelings can be hurt easily! Sammy, you make me furious!"

Leah was going in and out of her Singaporean accent. Almost into Chinese. But she was very upset once more.

Her eyes watered up and she walked out of the cafe. A lot of students were watching the whole comotion, proabably finding something to gossip about. The next day. She sat on a bench and closed her eyes. The sun was starting to set, the same as her heart.

[CENTER][I]Secrets are are meant to be kept secret, but one that is kept to long builds up. And when it releases.... it is an act of emotional war.[/I][/CENTER][/SIZE]