Degraded

Chapter 9-Derek

Standing in the hallway next to Sam, everything felt awkward. There is no talking, we are just looking around for something to say. I wondered if it would be like this forever or if this awkwardness is just temperary.

Occasionally, I would smooth my pitch-black hair back, a habit I need to get rid of, and gaze at photo on the wall, or anything of no importance.

I would look at one photo that says something I don't care about at all, like "Vote for me!" signs, anything to make it look like I was engaged in deep thought.

Surprising enough, she didn't seem uncomfortable, like me. I'm sure she has moments like this every day in her life, since she is so introverted and awkward.

I need to do something, if I don't want to lose her, and more importantly, the opportunity to get my hands on that journal.

Finally, after what felt like a thousand years, the bell rang, finally deciding to break the silence. I sighed, a loud, heavy sigh.

"I can, um, walk you to chem if you want." I blunder, managing to say something to her. I need to keep my mind clear and focus on the real goal. I'm not here to make friends...I'm here to get that journal.

"Sure." She responds.

So, I walk her to her chemistry class, making me even more late. This is just wonderful, I think.

~~~

Striding confidently into class, I keep my head up high and my shoulders back. I slip my hand around Sam's lower back, guiding her to a seat.

Her face turns a cherry-hot red, and I feel a shudder pass through her spine. I am assuming this is the first time someone has ever done this to her, giving me a clue it should be easier than I thought to reel her in.

"So, for class today, we will get to know each other. I noticed a lot of you guys are shy, so I want to get you out of your shells." The teacher introduces. We are in for a long day.

"Why don't we all pick partners today?" He questions, grinning and examining all of our faces, trying to read our thoughts. He shakes his head yes, waiting for an answer he knows is not going to come. As far as I know, Sam only has one friend, so asking her to be partners with me should be simple.

I turn my body to face her, and she immediately looks me straight in the eyes, making me gulp.

"Do you want to be partners?" I ask, putting on a large grin and hoping she doesn't see through me.

"Absolutely." She replies, a little too fast and eager, hinting to me I am doing everything right. She never says anything that makes her sound too wanting, so this should be a piece of cake.

I lean over to her slowly, trying to make sure no one sees us. As I do, she looks at me like a frightened little girl someone is trying to abduct.

I whisper in her ear, "We should hang out sometime," She blushes, and I know it's working, "how about this weekend?"

"Sure." She squeaks, I almost don't here it, it was so quiet. She reminds me of a small, quiet mouse.