Fade Into You

Chapter 17

Faye's POV

As soon as I stepped onto campus the next day, I went on a mission. My eyes scanned every classroom and hallway, searching for Andy Fitzroy. Andy's a good guy. This isn't just about making Jonathan jealous—well, okay, maybe a little—but I genuinely like Andy. 

He's cute, funny, and honestly, I need a rebound to get over Jonathan.

Somewhere deep inside me, I know it won't be easy forgetting someone like him. Can you blame me?

Jonathan has this effect on people. A dangerous kind. It kicks in right after he dumps them. And what do these girls do when Jonathan Ryder breaks their hearts? 

They cry. They beg. 

Some crash out so badly they talk about ending their life, just because he stopped texting back. It's a damn drama series, I swear.

But not me.

I'm done with him. I'm going to move on and prove it—show him I'm not one of those girls. He doesn't get to have that kind of power over me anymore.

I turned a corner, and that's when I saw him.

Jonathan freaking Ryder.

He was posted up by the lockers, flanked by his friends TJ and Luke. At the end of the row stood Jake, Toby, Mike and Andy. How none of them had started a fight yet was a miracle.

I glanced down at my outfit: denim jeans, a plain white cropped tee showing off my freshly pierced belly button. I'd gotten it done just a few days ago. My hair was in a loose bun, two curly strands framing my face. 

I had light makeup on—just enough to highlight the essentials. 

"Hey, Andy." I spoke loud enough for them all to hear.

They turned around. I caught the way Jake's eyes flicked to my outfit—and stayed there. Toby and Mike exchanged knowing smirks. Andy's gaze met mine and held it.

"Hello, Faye," he said after a beat.

"Wanna walk with me to class?" I smiled.

He grinned back. "Yeah, sure—"

Jake cut him off, shoving him aside and stepping in front of me.

"What are you wearing?" he snapped.

I folded my arms. 

"What does it look like I'm wearing? They're called clothes."

He glared. 

"Cut the attitude. I don't like your outfit. I'll call home for someone to bring you a change of clothes."

I scoffed. 

"Wow. I didn't realize I needed your approval to dress myself. News flash, Jake—I wear what I want, and I don't owe anyone an explanation. Least of all you."

A collective of murmurs echoed from nearby. That's when we realized people had gathered around. Of course, Jonathan and his crew stood further down the hall, arms crossed, watching the scene unfold like they were judging a boxing match.

Jonathan's expression was unreadable, but I caught the flicker of amusement in his eyes when our gazes met. Jake was fuming.

"When will you ever learn to listen?"

"Never."

I looked past him. "Coming, Andy?"

Andy nodded, stepping past Jake and the others. We started walking together, side by side.