Lincoln Wood Private College Prep

Hunter Lexington

I woke up feeling like shit.

There was loud music blasting from some where in the room and I felt like with each beat of the drum my hangover was getting over. I looked around the small room I shared with Nate, my roomate. He sat there, grinning from MY drum kit.

"So, where'd you go last night, mate?" Nate said grinning, his small elfish face full of delight. I groggily rubbed my head, trying to remember what happened yesterday, but coming up with nothing.

"I've got no idea." I said honestly, trying to get my eyes to adjust to the daylight.

"Well all I know is you wandered home with lipstick all over your mouth. Good onya!" Nate laughed, flinging a jumper and jeans over to me. I caught them quickly, trying desperately to remember.

"Ah shit." Was all I had to say.

---

I couldn't deal with going to school but I did anyway, riding my bike to school was hell. I wore a pair of sunglasses to hide the fact that I was still hungover. Walking to my locker, I could see a few people looking at me funny. I gave them a look and they scurried off. Cole walked past and I tried to catch her eyes, but she wouldn't meet them.

Now I knew I'd screwed up.

---

"I don't get it, what did I do?" I said to Cole in English. We had been sitting next to each other all period and she hadn't said a word. She turned to me now, eyes furious.

"Seriously, Hunter? You where this really nice guy that I though might actually like, and then you go and make out with another girl, which is now causing her even more shit!" Cole huffed.

I felt cold all over. I remembered now. I remembered the feel of her mouth on mine, of her hand in my hair and mine on her waist.

"It was Jesse, wasn't it?" I said quietly. She was one of the most popular girls in school, and taken by that guy called Rupert. Cole nodded.

I picked up my books, sick of pretending I wasn't hungover and a complete asshole.

"Mr. Lexington?" Mr Brown asked. I barged through the doors, not looking back as he called after me.

"Fuck off." I whispered under my breath. My sunglasses felt heavy on my eyes. I needed to talk to Jesse.

---

I knew where the house was but when I stumbled upon it so quickly I was kind of surprised. It was massive, with three stories and a large balcony. I was nervous, I'll admit it. I knocked on the door, not really expecting an answer.

"Can I help you?" Jessie said, opening the door. There where dried tears on her cheeks and her eyes where puffy,

"Uh yeah. My names Hunter-" I started, but Jesse interupted me.

"Where you the guy from last night?" Jesse asked, her skin going pale. All I could do was nod.

"Look, I'm really sorry. I was drunk off my ass and I had no idea what I was doing." I said, trying to look her in the eyes. She had them firmly fixed on the ground.

"Its not all your fault. I let it happen. Yes I was wasted but I was still stupid." Jessie said, smiling. I smiled at her back, relieved we weren't on too hard terms.

Spoiler

@shinethroughthedark I really think Hunter and Jesse need to talk

I talked to Hunter, well, Hunter talked to me.

He know he'd made out with Jessie. He had on sunglasses which told me he was hungover.

Ugh.

So some girl named Dafnie asked Hawthorne and I to lunch. She was everything I wanted to be. Blonde, confident, lovable. I was blonde. But the confident and lovable part had yet to come.

"Can we go to Taco Bell?" She laughed and led us to her car and we were there in no time flat. A lot of the kids from our school went here for lunch, I'd never tried it.

"You haven't had Taco Bell?" Both Hawthorne and Dafnie were shocked. So I let them order for me. They got me some burrito that was full of carbs and fat. Quite frankly? I didn't care. I just let them dictate what I needed to eat and I ate it. Honestly? The ooey gooey cheesy burrito mess was delicious and I was glad I'd chose to eat here.

Until Hunter showed.

He didn't see me right away, but I'd just told Dafnie and Hawthorne. Hunter made out with Jessie at her party, while he was drunk. And he didn't even remember it until I told him. Both of them looked pretty perplexed. And then he showed.

And then he was looking at me. And then he was headed to my table. I ducked my head, praying he wouldn't see me.

"Cole, can we talk?" I didn't look up, I just stuck another piece of burrito in my mouth which I regretted because my breath probably smelled awful at that point.

"Please?" Then I looked up which was clearly a mistake. How could I resist his eyes? Twinkling and begging for me to give him a chance. I stood up and walked with him to an empty booth by the windows, crossing my arms before I sat down.

As he sat down, he spoke. "I'm so sorry. I was drunk and didn't mean it and..." He trailed off when he saw me put my head in my hands.

"So making out doesn't mean anything to you?" The words came out like knives. His face fell lower than it already had been and his eyes looked down, embarrassed.

"It does." There was a pause.

"My host parents are going out Friday night. Don't get any ideas. I'm not the kind of girl Jessie is. We can hang out at my place, maybe watch a movie. Please don't screw this up. I actually kind of like you and it would really suck if you turned out to be a dick." I knew I'd been blunt, but I was also fed up. I didn't want to play games or go through a whole bunch of drama. Hunter's face broke into an expression of relief.

"I'll be there at 6?" I nodded and walked over to my table where Dafnie and Hawthorne had been talking and giggling animatedly while not so inconspicuously staring at us.

"What was that all about?" Dafnie asked.

"Hunter and I are hanging out Friday."

Jessie

The blonde girl motioned for the boy to follow her inside, thinking she might as well talk about everything. Plus, maybe he'd be a great stress reliever. Like, she could vent ad he would listen. She didn't ha ve anybody who listened. Of course, Val was her best friend, but she didn't particularly like talking about the kind of stuff Jess actually wanted to talk about.

Hunter sat on the edge of one of the soft chairs, and Jessie sat on the couch, across from him.

It was awkwardly silent, and Jessie couldn't help but stare at the boy. He was nice looking. Not her type, but still cute. Though, she completely wished he hadn't come here. She wanted to get away. But no, couldn't have that. How did he even remember where she lived? Wasn't he drunk?

Jessie cleared her throat quietly, and sat back against her small plush couch, "So did you just want to discuss the kiss? Apologize? I appreciate it, but I kinda left school cause I didn't feel well, and I wanted to get away from people."

Hunter's cheeks heated up a bit, and he sighed quietly, "I think I messed something up."

Jessie cocked her head to the side, and frowned a bit, "What do you mean by that?"

She liked to listen to people. She liked helping others through things. It gave herself confidence when she made people feel better. Maybe she could help him, and he could help her.

"This girl I like...I'm pretty sure she saw us making out last night, and I've tried talking to her...but she just ignored me." He murmured, a sad look crossing his dull expression.

"You can't try and talk to a girl." She stated raising an eye brow.

Hunter frowned at her, "I can't?"

"Wait, no, no. I mean, you can't try and talk to a girl. You have talk to her. Don't try, because that means you'd be willing to give up easily. And if you want to talk to...-"

"Cole."

"Oh-aw, cute..anyways, you just have to go for it. Pull her out of her conversation, if she's in one. Force her to talk to you. But-I don't mean, like, get aggressive and force her to talk to you. Just get her in the situation that she can't say 'no' if you asked her to talk, y'know?" She explained, making sure to emphasize 'try' and 'force'.

Hunter nodded thoughtfully, glanced at his watch, then stood up quickly, "I gotta go. It's lunchtime."

Jessie smiled, and stood up as well, "Alright. Well, I'll probably talk to you tomorrow. It was great talking to you...and thanks again for coming by, I really do appreciate it."

Hunter grinned back, waved, then left.

Jessie's shoulders slumped, and she sighed in relief, glad she was alone again. It kind of shocked her that he didn't say anything about what she was wearing. One would think somebody would notice one of the most popular kids in school wearing grey baggy sweatpants, socks with little snowmen on them, an over-sized sweater that had cats everywhere, and her hair up in a not-so-cute messy bun.

Heh. At least she was comfortable.

Jessie looked around her, then walked into the kitchen, pulling out a jar of pickles from the pantry. Oh, pickles. Why you gotta be so good?

She pulled one out, put the lid back on, and put the jar back in it's spot, before going back into the living room and sprawling out over the couch, pickle in one hand and the remote now in the other.

Criminal Minds sounded good right now. She flipped through the channels, until she came to Ion Television, and tossed the remote away, satisfied with her selection.

Man, did she have to biggest crush on Matthew Grey Gubler and Shemar Moore. They were just so freakin' hot.

Jess took a bite out of her pickle, and grinned stupidly at the screen as Prentiss kicked a door open, "Oh, Emily Prentiss. Too bad you almost get killed by Doyle and have to go undercover cause your psycho ex has it out for you."

Was she talking to the TV? Of course. Who didn't do that? Just cause she comes from money doesn't mean she's a snobby butt monkey who is money-crazy. Nah, man. She's chill, crazy, stupid, y'know, the usual.

----

Jess woke up on the ground, a few feet away from the couch. Did she fall asleep? If so, did she really roll off? Gah.

It was dark outside, and she could hear her stomach growling. Should've eaten something other than a pickle.

"Yuck," Jessie grimaced, as she licked her lips, in need of some chapstick. How long was she out?

Just as Jessie pulled out all the ingredients to make tacos, there was a knock at her door, and she sighed, already annoyed by whoever it was' presence.

Throwing her hands to her sides, she marches to the living room, and peeks through the small circle in the middle of the front door, surprised at who she sees. Well, isn't this perfect?

She throws open her door, her hand clenching the doorknob in frustration, "Can I help you with something?"

Hawthorne

Spoiler

Ok, so taking @Nike's advice, I decided to ease my way into the troubles Hawthorne's facing at home. I hope you guys like it!! I'd love a little feed back as well.

It was nice to finally have someone to sit with at lunch and talk to. Nice to have friends, or at least acquaintances. Dafnie seemed like she could be an amazing friend to me, and I hoped she would be. She was so beautiful, and seemed so confident about herself. It would be nice to have her kind of confidence, but I doubt I would ever have anything like that for myself.

You worthless skank! You'll never amount to anything. You're probably end up on your back for a living like your whore mother! Nothing we have will ever be yours."

The sound of my grandmother's venomous voice in my head made me flinch. Trying to keep a handle on the sudden panic that was surfacing, I took a drink of my cold water, but my hand shook so bad, I crushed the flimsy plastic like cup in my hand, spilling out everywhere.

"I'm sorry," I grab napkins to start cleaning the water up. "I don't know what happened."

"Are you ok?" Dafnie as she begins wiping the water away as well.

"I- I'm fine," I give an unconvincing smile. "Why do you ask?"

"Your hands are shaking," Cole.

"Probably low blood sugar." I say in quick reply. "My hands get like this when my blood sugar is low."

They both threw worried glanced my way, but I just ignored them and continued wiping. It didn't help much. Not being able to stand their gazes on me, I quickly excused myself to the bathroom and practically run like a bat out of hell, bumping into someone in the process. Saying a hasty apology, I continued my way to bathroom.

After slamming the stall door closed, I began to hyperventilate, my entire body shaking as tears the size of golf balls fell from my face. Burying my knees between my head, I tried to block out the sound of he voice as it reverberated against the inside of my skull.

You're worthless!

Disgusting!

Piece of filth!

I wish you would kill yourself and save us all the trouble.

Whore!

"No!" I shook my head, rocking back and forth. "It's not true. It's not true. It's not true."

By the time you're twenty, you'll be lying in the gutter where you belong.

I could vaguely make out the sound of someone knocking on the door. More like banging on it, and someone calling my name, but my mind wasn't really registering it.

"Stop!" I cried, plunging my hand through my hair and pulling on it. "Please stop."

But it didn't, and the hate just kept spewing from her mouth.

Ungrateful bitch!

Stupid cow!

Gold digging tramp!

They kept coming and coming, echoing over and over again in my head, until I screamed. And screamed and screamed and screamed. Then the voices were gone, and I wasn't screaming anymore. Someone was beating on the door and yelling my name. Slowly, I stood, walking to the door and unlocking it. The first face I saw was Dafnie's, immediately followed by Cole's.

"Hawthorne! Are you ok? We heard you screaming in there." she touched my shoulder.

I didn't stop to answer her question, instead heading straight for the door and grabbing my things. "I have to go."

"Wait!" she stepped in front of me. "What happened? Is something wrong?"

Never meeting her eyes, I walk around her and keep going.



When I got back to school, lunch was just ending, so I headed to my next class. I didn't say anything, didn't talk to anyone. A few people tried to talk to me, but I paid them no mind, or more like I didn't notice them trying to speak to me. I had a lot of missed call and texts from Dafnie, and I know I should have called her or texted back, but I didn't. When I got into my car, I just sat their for a very long time, before finally starting the car and heading home, where my grandmother was waiting for me at the door.

"Where the hell have you been?" she snapped.

I didn't answer, which must have made her angry, because I didn't even see the hand coming towards me. The resounding smack of her hand hitting my cheek was almost deafening. The scarlet liquid that spilled from my nose when I wiped my mouth was the warmest thing i'd felt for the longest time.

"The next time I have to clean up for you, you'll get a lot worse." she spat before stomping her way upstairs and closing the door.

Well, that having been said and done, I made my way up to my room, where I laid down in my bed, and cried myself to sleep.

Spoiler

@Avalon, here we go! Hope this is ok, but if you want me to edit it, just tell me

Hunter Lexington

I walked into the school car park, feeling a little better than before. Jesse had been really cool and I was hoping we could just forget about it. I didn't think other people would though.

And plus, I'd taken Jesse's advice and talked to Cole. Sure she'd cracked it a bit, but that was only fair. I was looking forward to Friday and trying to win her back. She was something special and I wasn't going to let her go that easily. So I strolled into the carpark, ready to get over myself and what happened with Jessie.

And then I saw him. Leaning against the brick wall opposite me, he had on baggy pants and a loose t shirt. His messy black hair was tangled around his eyes, but they stared at me all the same. In his hand was a cigarette, its smoke drifting through the air.

Danny.

We had been to the same high school. I remembered when he arrived. I was happy in my place, reasonably popular with a semi jock status. Sure I was a bit of a band geek, but most people liked me. He strolled in with that casual confidence and I disliked him from the start.

My girlfriend at the time, Cat was someone I wanted to spend the rest of my life with. We where the couple of my school. And then she started hanging around him and his crew of guys. She started ripping her clothing and smoking and before I knew it they were making out in the hallway.

She dumped me the next day. Over the phone, not even in person.

I remember confronting him in the hallway, slightly intimidated by his tough physique but trying to appear tougher than I was.

"She came to me, man." Danny said with that sly smile. I threw the first punch. It glanced off his cheekbone, causing him to stumble back into the lockers. Danny punched me in the stomach and I fell to the ground.

It was relentless after that. He kicked me in the side of the head and I had to get stitches. I was unconcious for three minutes and he was expelled. I got a suspension.

And now he was here, at Lincoln Wood.

"Hunter! My man!" Danny said, smiling wryly. He walked over to me, his eyes reflecting the midday sun. I could feel my blood boil, but I clasped his hand in mine securely, maybe even a little tighter than he would have liked.

"You piece of shit." I said quietly. I hadn't meant to say it, but now I'd started I couldn't stop. "You stole my girlfriend and got me fucking suspended." Danny kept his wry smile on his face.

"Look, dude, you did it all by yourself. You threw the first punch. Your little girlfriend came to me." His smile had disappeared now and it was replaced with a look of icy calmness.

"Guys, break it up." I heard a voice say from behind me.

Spoiler

Anyway can jump in, but preferably Hawthorn or Merrick

Collin

The cool breeze drifted throughout the town, and Collin stumbled a bit as he walked across the field of grass, towards the building his next class was located at. He couldn't think completely straight. Not that he was having a hangover, no. He didn't drink at the party. but he was attacked. Not like jumped, not at all. Isabel attacked him with her lips. And he didn't want that.

He liked her, yes. She was pretty, yes. And he wouldn't mind at some point possibly going out with her, but considering her reputation, they probably wouldn't last long. The thing that bothered him was that she was drunk, and she kissed him. The fact that it was his first, and the fact that she was drunk ticked him off.

He didn't offer his first kiss to her, she stole it. And he was offended. Highly offended. It's not like he wanted to be mad at her. He didn't want to be mad at anyone. But she was intoxicated. It wouldn't have been as big of a problem as it is if she wasn't drunk. Because then she would've known what she was doing. But no.

Isabel was being stupid, and wearing her skimpy little outfit, drunk off her ass. He thought she was smarter. Perhaps he should've listened to his mother when he told her about the girl. Her words suddenly popped into his mind, and he regretted not listening to her, "Girls like that, honey...they don't deserve boys like you. Promise me you won't get involved with her. It'll only cause trouble and heartbreak."

He didn't promise. He just told her he'd be alright. But now look at him, he was mad because the girl he liked stole something precious from him. Maybe he was being dramatic, or too sensitive, but who cares? Girls acted like this all the way, so why couldn't guys? It's not like he's locking himself in the bathroom, crying because he was lost and didn't know his place in life.

He knew his place. Collin, the kid who makes his own friggin' awesome clothes. Perhaps he was a bit conceited with his skills, but at least he didn't tell himself he couldn't do anything. It took a long time to build the confidence he had.

Collin sighed loudly, and stared at the door in front of him. He actually had the urge to lock himself in the bathroom now. Haha.

Shaking his head, he opened the door, and stalked in, bag slung over his shoulder.

"Ah, thanks for showing up, Mr. Maye." Mrs. Jackson's sweet voice said with a smile.

He wasn't late, was he? The boy glanced up at the clock hanging up at the wall, and frowned a bit. The bell rang fifteen minutes ago. Huh?

Collin nodded, and took his seat in the front of the class, setting his messenger bag down next to him.

The class was quiet as Mrs. Jackson began to explain the body of the Chimpanzee, pulling up a picture of the animal.

Collin stared at the board, though he was barely paying attention, since he mind was still on Isabel.

She stopped talking for a second, walked to the board, and stood in front of it, starting again, Chimpanzees have senses very similar to ours, including hearing, sight, smell, taste, and touch. Now..."

Collin tuned her out, now focusing on his hands. He should've pushed her away. The he wouldn't be having the problem he is now. But he was caught by surprise when her lips crashed into his for a matter of seconds, before she pulled away and left the room.

It was weird. Some people say their first kiss was great, some say it was bad, but him? He just...he just wished it hadn't happened. He was saving it for someone special. Somebody who deserved what he had preserved (I'm so smartttt, haha!), but now he couldn't do that. Because of her. He hadn't seen her all day, no that he wanted to. If she was at school, he'd probably ignore her. The fact that she wasn't thinking straight the night before, but was today and still didn't apologize made him even more angry. Couldn't she say sorry? Was it so hard to say, "Oh, sorry I kind of forced my lips on your." Or, "Sorry for stealing one of your most precious things."

Nah, she was too stuck up for that. He didn't know how he hadn't seen it before. He was sure she liked him, yes, but he wasn't sure she'd even stay. Why would she? Isabel's one of those girls who like to 'experiment' with different types of guys. Anyone she could get her hands on, actually. It was stupid. She was stupid.

Collin hoped she hated herself for her stupidity, hoped that she tried to apologize, just so he could tell her to leave him alone. Or he could be even more dramatic and say, "I don't ever want to talk to you again!"

He laughed at himself, and looked back at the board. Mrs. Jackson was shooting him a look, and he cringed a bit. Did he laugh out loud? Oops.

"Mr. Maye, care to share what's so funny?" It wasn't exactly a question. She had the look his mother gave him.

He cleared his throat, an expert at covering things up, "The fact that the Chimp is ridiculously and immaturely like my younger sibling is quite astounding. Sorry, though, I didn't mean to disrupt your class."

The older woman smirked a bit, then proceeded. Had to give him props for quick thinking.

Isabelle Lee

I couldn't go to school today. Not like this, the things I did last night, they were totally out of line. I sighed. How am I suppose to apologize for doing that? What do I say, oh im sorry for kissing you while i was drunk off my ass? Hell, I couldn't face him. He probably hated me by now. My face was slowly turning red, I was definitely furious with the night that had tooken place.

I got up out of bed, I needed to head to school anyways, even if it was just a half day already that I had skipped.

I looked into my closet and pulled out some sweats and a tank top. These were the least revealing clothes I had, at least right now. I slipped on my slippers and got my keys.

"Why didn't you go to school today?" My father yelled as he glared at me with deep anger in his eyes. I was scared but I didn't let it show.

"Since when do you care when the hell I go to school?" I yell back. He didn't say anything, at least not for a moment. I stepped to the left and began to walk to the door.

I felt a jerk on my arm and I faced him again. "Leave. Me. Alone." I say. He laughed in my face and I reared back and punched him in the mouth then ran out to my car. I was tired of being mis treated.

I got inside and locked my doors then buckled up and started the car. I needed to catch my breath for a moment.

I finally found myself parked in the school parking lot. I saw Collin walking to class, he looked so very angry. I sighed, it had to be because of me. What was I going to do? I liked him, very much so. But, how could I ever get him to understand that I didn't mean for it to happen. My heart was aching, I never felt like more of a slut than right now.

I was going to walk up to him but he had already stepped into class. Instead of going to sign in, I would just hide and wait until the bell rings.

---- An hour later----

The bell rang and I waited patiently for signs of Collin, when he saw me it looked like he wanted to snap me right in two.

"Please talk to me." I plead as I walk with him to his locker. He completely ignored me. I sighed, this was definitely going like I thought it was going too.

"Well if you won't talk then I'll do the talking, you just listen." I say.

He kept digging in his locker so I guess that was a sign that he would listen.

"I know I am not the best girl in the world. I am far from it. I like you. Okay? What I did last night was uncalled for and I honestly don't normally do that. Not when I am drunk anyways. I wanted to talk to you more last night but I kept getting nervous, which is definitely something new to me. I guess when I didn't talk to you, the drunk me sort of went ballistic and might have kissed you.." I finish.

He turned to me, still having anger, but it wasn't as intense before. "I'm sorry I did that to you though. I am also sorry I didn't say it sooner, I wanted to but I just couldn't force myself to come up here this morning, I didn't think I could even face you after this."

I step back from him because obviously during my speech I kept getting closer and closer.

"Please say something." I plead. I bat my eyes unintentionally and I feel a tear drop trace my cheek.

Some people were staring at us, but, I didn't care.

I hurried home Monday as fast as I could, wishing it were Friday. I just wanted to see him and hang out with him. I wanted to put the Jessie thing behind us once and for all. And maybe, maybe we might just become something more than friends.

I was practically out of my seat and ambushing my host Mom when she walked in the door.

"Hey, Tina," She had insisted I call her by her first name.

"What's up?" She smiled brightly, almost too brightly as she dropped her very expensive car keys on the table.

"I know you and Dave were going out on Friday. I was wondering if I could have a guy friend over to hang out and watch some movies while you're out?" Her smile widened.

"That's perfectly okay! Let me know if you need anything. Condoms, extra sheets..." The weird thing was, she was smiling. The entire time. Like she couldn't move her face.

"No no no no, um he's just a friend. We were going to watch a movie and I was going to make grilled cheese sandwiches or something. Maybe an omelette. You're sure that's okay?" She nodded.

"Yup. Dave and I will go out at 6 and we're going to a movie after. You have the whole place to yourselves. So if you do decide differently..." She lowed her voice to a whisper and winked exaggeratedly at me. "Carol has a box of condoms stashed in her bathroom." I closed my eyes in embarrassment, willing the moment to end. Thankfully, Tina was gone right after that. Seriously, that woman can move.

My cheeks were burning red the rest of the evening as I did my homework and cleaned my room. Even as I got the vacuum going Tina was shouting that no, I didn't have to clean, the maid would get it tomorrow. But it felt wrong having another person in my room cleaning up after me.

But seriously. It was almost like she wanted me to ask for the condoms. Ugh.

Rupert Franz


Colette was scary. Sh had fangs and she damn well knew how to use them. It's not like it intimidated me, it did, but why she reacted that way... I don't know.

Like we'd say in Polish, bez sensu. Which means, it makes no sense.

I was driving home in my dad's car. He kept on complaining that I was driving an old Jeep Wrangler to this school when I could drive a BMW. Driving a Jeep shows you're cheap, while driving a BMW shows class, status. Oh, fathers, how wonderful they are.

The wind was blowing my hair like crazy, maybe I should start wearing ponytails. I'd look ridiculous cause it wasn't that long, but I'd at least be able to see when I drive. I had my phone plugged in, so my music was pumping. It was The Neighbourhood.

The light turned red in front of me, so I tapped the brake until I was close enough to fully push it, making the car stop just behind a Merc. It was pretty empty on these streets, the school was more in the village, because it needed the space for it's hugeness somewhere. Only a few people lived around here. There were small villages that circled Seattle, these were the villages. They were still considered Seattle.

My phone started ringing. I flicked the mute button and clicked answer on the steering wheel. Yeah, my dad got the fancy car that the phone connected to it. I didn't complain about that feature, it makes my life easier and safer, it just sort of pissed me off because AH TECHNOLOGY.

"Rup?" the voice was unrecognizable.

"This is Rupert," I answered.

"Hey," Female...

I swallowed hard, trying to decode the voice.

"It's Macy... Philip's sister!" that helped a lot.

My hands suddenly got clammy, but I gripped the steering wheel. The light turned green and we started driving again. There were a million trees around us, village, makes sense. I cleared my throat and was unsure of what to say.

"Yo, Mace," I started smoothly. "What's up?"

"Um," she paused. "I just wanted to see what you were up to..."

"I'm driving home, wanna do something?"

I took a turn, nearing my estate. We lived more in the city, so we could see the buildings and it was a short walk to the center, like twenty minutes. I clicked the windows button to close them, it was not only getting cold but it would bother the call.

"Yeah, sure." she replied, I could hear the smile.

"Come over to my place."

I hope she means Philip is coming with. We didn't hang up just yet, I could hear her breaths.

"Bring Philip," I mentioned.

"Oh-okay. Of course I'd bring him!" She laughed.

"Alright, and bring a movie. It's his turn with movies..."

The city's buildings were growing bigger, meaning my street was nearing. More houses came up, stores, and life as well. We were in the city, finally. I smiled and found my street, taking a right. Only a few houses stood here since they were just that huge. The estates had a lot of land, especially mine. I found mine, the white brick with three stories and the water fountain that looked like a Weeping Angel was just in front. I pulled into the drive way, rounding over to the garage. It was a curve of gravel, going around the angel on one side.

"So, an hour? Can I bring people?" I almost forgot I was talking to her.

"Yeah, as many as you want."

"Awes, I'll see you, hot."

"Bye,"

And I hit the end call button, pulling the key out of the ignition.

Spoiler

Anyone can come. @shinethroughthedark I want Jessie to come, so they could start all over.

"You're a fucking idiot. Rubber?" I was laughing so hard, I couldn't breathe. "Where did you even get this? This is legit on DVD?"

I was holding the DVD Philip handed me with the widest grin he's had in ages. He was mistaken if he thought I would actually play this shit.

A few came by, and some faces I was surprised to see. There was Philip's sister Macy, who had this whole 'rebel rich teen' look going on with the black purple streaked hair and heavy eyeliner. But she wore pretty hipster stuff.

There was also Jessie. Which didn't surprise me. She was friends with Philip and... Macy. I could see that she's closer with Macy, maybe that's how her and Philip met since, well, they are siblings.

I still had the DVD in hand and had no idea what to do with it. My DVD collection wasn't even looked at by anyone, they probably figured that I was ready with a movie. I am not playing this, I really am not.

There was another girl, Macy brought her. Her name was Rhiannon, like the song. She wore this short short short red dress. Her boobs were spilling out of it. And she was eyeing the collection.

It was in the bookshelf just off to the left of me, the wall next to the TV. It was a huge one, the biggest one my father could find. He was all 'If you have your friends over, they better see how rich you are'. This was my basement, my pad. It was the only place I could chill with my friends, but still, my parents sunk their richness into it. Their prosperity. It made me sick.

There was this couch, it was the largest and cheapest one I could find. In an alley way just a few blocks from here. It was a black leather, but looked brand new. It wasn't even touched. They were chilling on it without a clue how un-rich it was of me.

"Olive, wanna choose something?" I suggested.

Her eyes darted to me from the collection. There was this curiosity in them and I knew she would love to choose. I moved away from the shelf and smiled as she got up, walking over to me.

"You don't like Rubber?" She joked, taking the DVD from my hand.

I met her eyes and smirked, clicking my charm on. She shook her head and looked over at the shelf, scanning the titles.

I looked over at Jessie and caught her looking at me. The pit of my stomach burned and I licked my lips, looking away. Her face was hard to look at, all that betrayal was written on it. I don't even know why, she knew we were just together to fuck.

But somehow, it didn't feel like that.

It didn't feel like it was only fucking.

Dafnie Serena Leto

Hawthorne was worrying me. When she was with Cole and I, she got some kind of panic attack and I didn't know what to do. I wanted to help her, but what could I do? She ran. She was scared, scarred.

So I called her. And texted her. To no answer. It really worried me.

I was laying on my bed, Fleetwood Mac was playing on my radio. Somehow on image flew in my mind. It was of the party. I shut my eyes and remembered a guy. He had amazing tattoos and someone his name reminded me of America. I couldn't put my finger on it. I shook my head and remembered Danny.

His face, the way his lips fit mine. And how the tobacco tasted great from him. And the smoke, how it swam between us. Somehow all of that made my body shake. I just wanted that moment again, how hot it was. How 'in the moment' it was. I honestly wasn't that drunk since I remembered everything. To the point where we escaped to Jessie's guest room. Where it all happened.

And it was great. It wasn't just sex was it.

My phone finally rang and I jumped to it, grabbing it from my bedside table. I didn't even look at the caller ID before I spoke.

"Hawthorne! Jesus! Finally!" I said, my heart racing.

"Hawthorne?" Paul asked.

I should've looked. I swallowed hard and rolled onto my back.

"Sorry, hey Paul."

"What's with Hawthorne?" he was concerned.

"Nothing..." he doesn't have to know. "Our call just got disconnected... anyway." I lied.

His end muffled. He was probably doing something. So I waited and stared at my ceiling, remembering how Danny smelled.

It wasn't exactly that whole 'manly Axe' shit, it was sort of sweat mixed with some aftershave. But it was good.

"Dafnie. I'm back. You should come with me to the bar."

"Underage. So are you."

"Are you gonna come?"

"No fake."

"COME."

Spoiler

HAve no idea what to write

Kade

Spoiler

I didn't really raise the bar with this post, but here it is. @Avalon @LordGreenleaf, if there's anything I need to change in my post, just let me know what to change. I wasn't really too sure about Danny

Standing at my locker, I watched as everyone shuffled by, couples groping in the hallway, others dealing drugs on the down low, smoking cigarettes, etc. I checked my phone as I waited, not seeing any messages or missed calls. I wondered where Amara was. She should have started school today, but I hadn't seen her at all.

Where are you? Send.

Two soft hands covered my eyes, and someone pressed a delicate kiss me on my cheek. I smiled as she came to stand in front of me.

"Miss me brother?" Amara smiled brightly.

I pulled her into a bear hug and kissed her on the cheek.

"Someone needs to shave," she patted my cheek.

"And someone needs a brush," I wound a lock of her crimson colored hair.

She swatted my hand away. Amara stood five feet six inches, with a long lean frame. Her straights red hair, much like out mother's, fell down her back in soft curls. Her cat like Amber eyes complimented her lightly tanned skinned, and the freckles skating along her cheeks and nose made her look sweet, though she was anything but. If you had any idea the things I'd seen her doing....

"Ha ha," she rolled her eyes. "So how's your day been?"

"Better if I hadn't been looking for you around every corner," I raised an eyebrow.

"Sorry," was all she said, and fake smile.

"That's all I get?" I ask.

She throws a look at me that says how stupid I am for asking that, and then begins to walk away. "Later little brother!"

And then she was gone. With a shake of my head, I turn, heading for my car. I'd forgotten something in the passenger's seat, and I needed it for my next class. Now if I could remember what it was I needed...

Just as the light bulb above my head was about to light, someone brushed against my shoulder, pulling my attention. I turned my head to see someone walking in the opposite direction. His head was down, so all I could really see was the dark head of hair he had. What I could see were the loud and obnoxious sounding guys headed in his direction, but before I could say anything, he bumped into one of them.

The other guy didn't look too happy.

"Watch where the fuck you're going, punk." one guy stepped forward.

Judging by the attitude and ugly sneer on his face, He was probably the ass hole ring leader.

The boy went to walk around the guys, obviously not intimidated by them, "Leave me alone."

As the boy stepped away, the jock took another step forward, laughing, "Where you going?"

Just as the smaller boy opened his mouth, he was shoved back, and a laugh carried along with the soft breeze. He fell to the ground with a dull 'thud', his head now lowered so he was barely visible.

The guy on the ground didn't say, or do anything. Just sat there on the ground while they laughed in his face and kicked dirt on him. One ass holes snatched his bag up, ripped it open, and dumped it out over his head, and he still did nothing. Just kept his head down. That's when I thought it was time to intervene.

"I think you should take a step back," I moved in front of the ring leader, able to get a better look at him.

He wasn't as tall as me, but he was close, with a build close to mine. Hard square jaw and blonde hair with flat black eyes that made me think he had a few screws loose. The arrogant look on his face wasn't appealing in any way, and I didn't envy any women who was with him.

"I don't think I give a fuck about what you think," he sneered, the guys behind him echoing in agreement.

"Take a step back." is all I say.

He laughs, and two guys behind him follow suit like laps dogs. "You're new here, aren't you? Well, let me clue you in on something."

I cross my arms over my chest as I wait.

"Derek Morgan runs this school," he spread his arms wide. "So I don't have to do a damn thing."

"Ok then," I step right into his face. "Let me clue you in on something. I don't give a damn. Now take your lap dogs and step back."

He just laughed like he thought I was the funniest thing, and shook his head. "You crack me up. Let's get out of here guys. Got better fish to fry."

I watched as they left before turning towards the guy who was slowly starting to pick up his stuff off the ground. "You Ok?"

The boy gathered his things, and stood up, his head bowed, "I'm fine. Just a bit irritated."

Small, visibly thin trickles of blood ran from his hands, probably from falling on the ground.

"Hey, um, thanks..." He mumbled after a second, holding his things tightly.

"No problem." I looked at him with a slight frown, though he wouldn't be able to tell. "Just watch where you're stepping next time."

He nodded, but said nothing.

"What's your name?" I hold my hand out. "Everyone calls me Merrick"

After a few seconds of silence, he says, "Collin."

The boy now known as Collin shifted his weight to the other foot, and looked to the side, "I should probably get to class. Thanks, again..um, Merrick."

"No problem." I shrug. "Just come find me if those ass holes give you any more problems."

He nodded and then turned to walk off. Realizing I was going to have to come back to me car some other time, I headed back inside and to my locker. It was too bad I didn't get there, because it looked like two other guys were about to go at it. They were practically nose to nose.

"Guys, break it up." I called. "If you're gonna fight, then do it somewhere else."

One guy was pale. Blonde. Slim. Not heavily muscled. More or of what looked like lean muscle. The other guy was about my height. Dark hair. I couldn't see his build under the baggy clothes he wore, so I wouldn't be able to say much of anything about that. They looked at me for a moment, possibly sizing me up. Didn't know. Didn't care. I gave them both a look that told this wasn't optional.

The blonde one turned to the guy in front of him. "There's no way in hell this is over."

The other guy gave an icy smile, but said nothing. I watched as the other guy walked away, looking like he wanted to bash someone's head into the wall.

"That's the second stand off-"

More like a one sided ass hole party.

"-I've broken up today. What'd you do to piss him off?"

He raised an eyebrow. "How do you know it was me?"

"Do I look stupid?" I shot one back at him. "Or slow?"

The time it took for him to answer that question was all I needed. "Yea. It was definitely you."

He looked at me for another moment. Probably eyeing my tattoos. "You're the new guy, right?"

"Everyone calls me Merrick." I say. "You?"

"Danny," he answers.

Before I say anything else, he begins to move away. "Heading out for a smoke if you care to join."

"No thanks." I shake my head. "I like my lungs."

"Suit yourself," he gave a half assed wave with his hand as he took his leave. "See ya around."

Later in the evening

Sitting at home, I pulled my phone out to check the time, and saw an ongoing call with Rupert. I frowned. Had I Butt dialed him? I put the phone up to my ear. "Hello?"

"Yo Merrick." Rupert said over the background noise. "I'm having a party at my house. You should come chill. There are some ladies here asking about you."

I thought about it for a moment. "I'll come since you asked."

"Awesome dude!" he shouts. "See you then."

I hung up and grabbed my keys, heading for the door. No one was home, so I left a note and headed over to Rupert's house. As I walked in, I realized what the background noise had been. There had been a movie playing on a ridiculously enormous plasma screen TV. From the looks of it, people were watching Pacific Rim, which was am awesome movie. Turning away from the screen,I looked for Rupert. He was in the kitchen drinking a beer. As I came into view he put his drink down.

"Merrick!" He smiled. "You made it!"

"I said I would." I ran a hand through my hair as I looked around. "You said a few ladies wanted to meet me?"

His eyes lit up. "Oh yea. Hot as hell and lookin for some lovin."

I nodded. "I'm game. Need to blow off some steam. Take me to 'em."

I followed Rupert through the throng of people and over to a couch where a couple of people were hanging out. As we approached, A girl with Ebony hair and pure hazel eyes zeroed in on me, smiling when we stopped in front of her.

"Merrick," he motions to her. "This is-"

"Tatianna," she stood up, running one of her manicured nails down my chest. "Nice to meet you."

"There are rooms upstairs and to your left.Condoms in the night stand." Rupert winked. "Be safe!"

She pulled one of my hand into her two smaller and softer hands, licking her lips and biting the lower one. The naughty twinkles in her eye told me all I needed to know as she guided me up the stairs.

Hunter Lexington

I needed to speak to Cole. I don't think I could wait till Thursday. It was after school and I was looking for her near the lockers, desperate to talk to her. Her face had been in my head for too long.

My fight with Danny hadn't lasted long. A big guy with all kinds of tattoos had stepped in and started to talk to Danny, what was his name? Merrick. I needed to get Danny out of my head and the only way I could think of doing that would be to speak to Cole.

I saw her then at her locker, her hair almost gold in the faltering sunlight. Her pale face was etched permenantly into my head.

"Cole." I said, softly, walking closer towards her. She turned around, her eyes a sky blue.

"Hey." Was all she had to say, her mouth edging up into a smile.

"Come with me." I said to her.

---

We where sitting on the rocky ledge that faced the large sports ovals. Her face was a shade of ivory and I couldn't stop looking at her eyes,

"Do you forgive me?" I asked, looking over at her to see her reaction. Cole just stared at the ground.

"I like you too much to be angry at you." Cole smiled.

'I like you too." I said quietly. I don't know what came over me in that instance. I leaned forward into her and slowly but surely our lips met.

She was surprised, but the kiss deepended until I could feel her hand running through my hair. She wrapped her hands around my neck.

"Hunter." She murmured against my mouth. I could feel myself inching closer and closer to her. I could feel her hands running over my chest. I tugged my shirt over my head, letting her run her hands over the cords of my arms.

"I can't do this Hunter." Cole whispered. She looked so sad and I felt awful.

"I'm sorry." She said, she gathered her books off, running down the path back to the school, leaving me stranded on the bench feeling cold and ashamed.

And that was when I heard footsteps behind me.

Spoiler

Sorry for it being so sudden @Gravity, I just didn't want their next intereaction to be on Friday. It can be anyone who comes up to hunter maybe @Avalon (danny) or you and Dafnie? I really don't know

Cole

He. Kissed. Me.

He kissed me.

And I ran away. After the kiss, I cut the rest of my classes and walked straight home. I recalled the feel of his deliciously warm lips on mine. I'd never kissed anyone before. Maybe that's why I was so afraid?

I'd had a few friends back in France. I wasn't really close with them, they'd never really taken the time to get to know me. The guys certainly didn't notice me. And here I'd just had my first kiss with a guy I barely knew. A cute guy, one who seemed nice but had made out with another girl. While he was drunk.

I crawled under my covers, exhaling. Why did I have to run away? I pulled out my phone and pulled up Hunter's contact. We'd exchanged numbers a few days prior. I sent him a text. I began to type using "text speak" but it didn't seem right, so I went back and spelled everything out. But even that didn't feel right, so I deleted the text and locked my phone. I wanted to call him. Either that or see him in person. I wasn't going to be the wimp who apologized over a text.

Then, yet again, I changed my mind.

Come over soon? I waited nervously for his reply.

Talking to someone, be there in 30. K? I sighed in relief as I read his reply and typed back:

K

Then I was in motion. I was brushing out my long blond hair. It had been growing and reached down just slightly past the middle of my back. I changed out of the skirt I'd been wearing and into my favorite pair of skinny jeans that hugged me in all the right places.

I wasn't sure what shirt to wear, but I needed a little noise. So I put on some music and then stood by my closet, picking out a white, oversized and slightly sheer sweater.

I cleaned up my bedroom, making my bed and picking up clothes. I wasn't sure where Hunter wanted to hang out, but if it was in here, I didn't want to be embarrassed. So I danced around my room, having fun cleaning up a little bit and trying to get the jitters out. After about 10 minutes I ran into the bathroom to brush my teeth.

I was ready. I kept whispering it to myself, "I'm ready. He's just a guy. He likes you. Everything will be fine." It was a mantra. Saying it over and over again took away the meaning. The way if you repeat a word over and over again, it starts to sound weird on your lips. Then I heard the doorbell ring, making me jump.

I literally sprinted down the stairs and into the entry way. It had hardwood floors and I was wearing socks. Unfortunately I forgot this, and ended up sliding over the floor and crashing into the door before I pulled it open.

"Hey." I was breathing a little heavily but I smiled blushing. Hunter's blue eyes stared into mine, his lips curling up every so slightly. I stepped aside. "Come on in." He looked around the house but only briefly. It was almost like he didn't want to take his eyes off me. So I smiled, looking at the ground and feeling my cheeks heat up. I suddenly understood that stupid One Direction song. Smiling at the ground totally made sense.

"So. I couldn't wait for our date on Friday," I paused, suddenly realizing I'd said the word 'date'. Nobody had said it was a date. I stuttered, tripping over my words. "I... uh... I mean I couldn't wait for Friday to see you so I hoped you would be okay with coming over? My parents are still out so it's not like..." I trailed off realizing I was probably giving him the wrong idea. "I mean, um." I closed my mouth, pressing my lips together and Hunter laughed.

"How about giving me a tour?" I breathed out a sigh of relief at his suggestion and took his hand, guiding him to the kitchen. When I felt my palm on his, I suddenly had the fluttering sensation in my chest.

I walked him through the lower floor, showing him the kitchen, the living room and the dining room that was never used. I even gave him a brief glimpse of the pool in the backyard. Then I led him upstairs, starting in the back of the hallway.

"This is Tina and Dave's room, my host parents." He looked around, nodding as if to say "not bad." There was a giant King sized bed and a TV with a huge bathroom and walk in closet. It was a bit too big for my taste, but they seemed to like it.

"These are all bathrooms and linen closets." I pointed to the slightly smaller doors in the hallway. "This is the guest room." The guest room was easily the smallest room in the house, it had a full sized bed with a nice comforter and a tiny closet, but no bathroom.

"And this," I said, "Is my room." I led him inside, thankful I had cleaned up earlier. He looked at the bookshelves lining one of the walls that before had been unused. I'd had my books shipped (expensively) overseas so the shelf was fully stocked. He eyed the TV on the wall that I rarely used and then my bed on the opposite wall with the purple quilt my mother had made for me before I left. Then his eyes fell on the paintings and drawings I'd hung here and there over the room. I had some landscapes, a few still lifes and people. Walking on the beach, or a girl fixing her hair. I'd done all of those.

"Did you...?" He trailed off pointing at the artwork. I nodded, smiling with pride.

"You're really good. Amazing. I've never seen anyone our age paint like that." His hand squeezed mine and I squeezed back, grateful he found something interesting about me.

"Thank you," I sat down on the edge of the bed, patting the space beside me. Now I needed to talk to him, to apologize.

"I'm so sorry I ran earlier. I just wasn't expecting you to kiss me and it caught me by surprise." I looked into his light blue eyes, gauging his reaction. He looked guilty.

"No it's my fault. I should've asked you if you were ready..." He scooted back so he could lean against the headboard and I did the same, leaning against him.

"Do you forgi-" I cut him off, turning his face towards mine before pressing my lips against his. This was the first time I'd actually made the decision to kiss someone, and judging by the hand that snaked to my waist, I was doing a pretty good job.

"I have to tell you something." I pulled away slightly, pressing my forehead against his.

"Yeah?" He breathed.

"You were my first kiss. I've known you for two weeks, but it feels like forever." I wasn't sure where that last part came from but he smiled. I had a hard time catching my breath so I closed my eyes and he twirled a piece of my thick blond hair around his finger.

"I really like you," I whispered, opening my eyes. He smiled.

"Cole, when are you going to get it into your head that I like you too?" I bit my lip, smiling.

"I think I just did."

"And by the way," he paused, his hand still in my hair, "I had no idea that was your first kiss." My smile got wider and I wanted to kiss him, but I didn't want to be that couple who couldn't do anything but make out. I didn't want him to think I was needy or clingy. But he made the decision for me and I closed my eyes, feeling his mouth on mine.

Spoiler

@LordGreenleaf totally okay. I didn't want that to be it either. So... I sped things up a bit. For their Friday night date, I was hoping they could get to know each other a bit more. Their interests and stuff. We can talk about that in the DT

Jessie- Rupert's place...wait, WHAT THE MOTHAH FUDGE NUGGETS IS SHE DOING THERE?

I fidgeted in my seat, and glanced over at Rupert. I didn't know why I came, maybe the fact that I wanted to see him, and possibly talk to him? It was stupid, but...for some retarded reason I actually wanted him to have feelings for me, like I had feelings for him. But..this is Rupert Franz we're talking about. C'mon.

Macy sat next to me, grinning like an idiot, talking to Phillip about something. They looked a lot alike, though, Macy didn't think so.

I didn't know what movie was being picked, nor did I care, because all I could think of was having an actual conversation with Rupert. Like...starting over. I didn't want to remember the night of the party, I didn't want it to be true. But it was, and I hated it. So, I came up with the idea of starting over with him. Not from the beginning, no, because I could never forget to boy he was years ago. But, I could just grasp that tiny feeling of being wanted again. By him.

When we were 'together' for those few days, it was great. Even though basically all we did was make-out. I knew what he wanted, yet, I didn't care. The fact that he wanted it from me edged me on, and I couldn't reject him. No. After having a crush on him so long, why would I?

I couldn't give it to him, though. No. I would ever do that to myself. I could never live with myself if I gave something so precious to me to some jerk who wouldn't give it a second thought. I knew he didn't just want me. I knew there were other girls. Not like...not like, well, other girls that he went and screwed while I wasn't with him. I mean, like, other girls that he flirted with, y'know?

Suddenly, the lights were dimmed, and the movie began to play. I didn't care. I didn't want to watch it. I needed to talk to Rupert.

With a nudge of my elbow, I nodded to Macy, and she beamed, somehow knowing what I was doing, and cleared her throat, "Rupert, would you go help Jessie with the popcorn?"

"But...we have som-" Phillip started, but Macy glared at him, and he shut his mouth with a knowing look.

Another guy was here, but he left a bit ago with one of the girls. Slut. Oh, no, what the hell? Since when did I call people that? Er, well, people other than queen wh-um, Isabel?

I let out the breath I didn't realize I'd been holding, and stood up, just as Rupert got up. He led me up the stairs, and to the kitchen, where we just stood.

His place was nice, quiet. Where were his parents?

I cleared my throat, "So, um...she didn't really want us to, uh, get popcorn.."

Rupert nodded, as if he'd already knew, "I figured that. There's four bags down there."

"Look," I started, my head down so I wouldn't be tempted to look at him, "I know it sounds stupid, but I wanted us to be more than what we were.."

"What do you mean by that?" He asked.

I sighed, "You know what I meant. You didn't want to be with me because you wanted a relationship. I knew that. How could I not? How could I possibly think that you actually wanted to be with me?"

I finally looked up, and the look in his eyes...he looked kind of guilty, and possibly...sad? Since when did he feel anything like that?

"I want to restart. I know you were drunk the night of the party, and I'm going to choose to believe that what you said...wasn't something you meant." I stated quietly, clasping my hands together. "And by doing so...I want to give us a shot. I'm not sure if you're even willing to do something like that, and I'm not forcing you into it, so you can think about it, you know? And just...text me when you've decided. Whether it's to be with me, or not. Hopefully we can still be friends if...if you decide not to."

And with that, I gave a small smile, and went back down to the basement, settling in my spot next to Macy. I didn't feel good for putting him on the spot, but I needed to know. I needed to know if he was worth my time, if he actually wanted to commit to a relationship. But for some odd reason, I knew I wouldn't get what I wanted. I knew that I just wasted my time, but then again, I refused to believe it completely. I wanted us to be together, to have a meaning, and hopefully...he'll let me have the satisfaction of knowing that we could be something.

Spoiler

@LordGreenleaf Sorry, nobody else has posted so I kinda got stir crazy.

Everyone else was at Rupert's and I'd asked Hunter if he wanted to go to his place instead, but he insisted on sticking with our old plans. Secretly, I was happy, I had something special planned.

I put on a black fit and flare dress that cinched at my waist and flared out until it reached mid thigh. It was conservative at the top, with a neckline at my collarbone and thick straps. I was counting on my legs to do the talking so I put on some high heeled peep toes. Simple, but elegant.

I'd prepared my favorite French dish. Des croque-monsieurs. Or, in America, grilled cheese sandwiches with thick French bread and goey French cheese. I recalled him telling me once that veggies weren't his thing, so I grabbed the deep fryer and made french fries. Still French, even though they technically weren't. I smirked to myself as I put the food on the kitchen table, cleaning up as I anxiously waited for the doorbell to ring.

And when it did, I smoothed my hair, careful not to muss the perfect ringlets I'd styled, and walked to the door. I opened it with a smile to reveal the most gorgeous boy I'd ever seen.

Hunter's hair was a bit neater than usual, like he'd combed it. He was wearing a nice, dark pair of jeans with a collared shirt and a slightly dressy jacket. I smiled as his jaw nearly dropped to the ground. I felt beautiful, and I knew I was the luckiest girl in the world to have such a great date.

I led him to the kitchen table and we sat down. And as we ate and he complimented my cooking, we began to talk. I learned about how he loved music and wanted to be a drummer. I told him about how I sang and played piano. He also asked some questions about my art. But then I brought the conversation back to music.

"So do you sing?" As I asked this, he started to laugh.

"No," he said, "Listening to my singing voice is a fate I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy." I found that hard to believe. The sound of his voice was deep and throaty and sent shivers down to my core.

"I'm sorry to hear that. I'm not the best singer, but I like doing it." I stood up, taking his plate and mine to the sink.

"Let me help you with that," he offered, reaching out his hand.

"No, it's fine." I gently pushed his hand away and watched as he stood there, unsure of what to do. I quickly rinsed off the dishes and loaded them into the dishwasher, before putting in detergent and running it. "Thanks for offering though," I said.

He looked a little impressed. "Wow," he said, "It's kinda hard to find girls in the Lincoln Wood area who will make a guy a sandwich and then do the dishes after." I laughed, smacking his arm.

"So, what now?" He asked. My cheeks burned, I hadn't thought that far. I nervously played with one of my perfect blond ringlets.

"We could watch a movie. Or go for a walk," I suggested. In the end, we agreed on watching an action movie I'd never heard of and we went upstairs to my room. We put the movie on and turned out the lights, my room pitch black except for the glow of the TV screen.

We kicked off our shoes and sat on the bed, his knees raised up and apart with me sitting between his legs, my back resting against his chest. His arms were wrapped around me, his hands holding mine and resting on my stomach. I'd never been more comfortable in my life. And even though understanding the movie was a little hard for me because the actors spoke quickly and quietly, I was enjoying myself. He seemed to like the movie, laughing once in a while and gripping my hands at the more suspenseful parts.

I was feeling a little cramped so I raised my knees as well to stretch them out. As I did, the fabric of my dress rode up my thigh slightly, covering a few of his fingers and causing him to glance around at me. His eyes caught the bare strip of thigh that was showing and I could feel his breath catch.

"Enjoying the view?" I teased him, laughing. Ordinarily I would've been so scared, but being with him made me confident.

"Yes," he whispered, kissing my cheek, his lips grazing my jaw. I closed my eyes and bit my lip, not sure what I should do. He answered for me, putting my skirt back in place and being the gentleman I knew he was. But I wanted more. I'd felt an unfamiliar tingling, and I wanted to know what that felt like if I let it grow.

I pulled my skirt back towards his hands, revealing more of my legs. And when he moved his head around to see what was going on, I twisted around the best I could and I kissed him, lightly at first but then a little deeper. I turned and straddled him, placing my knees on either side of his hips and kissing him more intensely, feeling him pull away in surprise.

"Cole, are you sure this okay?" I could see the look on his face. We both wanted it, but I knew I didn't want to go too far.

"Not yet," I said, pressing my forehead against his. "I don't want to go too far, is that okay?"

"That's absolutely okay. Just tell me when it gets to be too much." I was so relieved that he was being this considerate. His hands rested firmly on my waist and we made out a bit more, my fingers roaming over his muscled chest and arms, enjoying the feel of his warm skin.

Eventually I rolled over on the bed, him turning on his side. We laid like that for a little while, his arm draped over my hip and the other arm propping him up. And that was my perfect first date, ended with a light kiss when it was time for him to leave.

I was getting to know Hunter, and I liked the person I was getting to know. I just wasn't sure where I stood, whether he was my boyfriend or just a guy I was seeing. I was anxious to find out, but that night, I was satisfied with the dreams we shared as I got ready for bed and went to sleep.