Racing to You ✓

22 | building

I slammed my books down on my table, making the remaining people in the classroom jump. I mumbled an apology before collapsing back onto my chair. 

Theo chuckled from beside me, packing his own bag. "You good?"

"I swear I could use textbooks as weights," I groaned, then winced, rubbing my throat. "I also need to rest my voice."

He smiled sympathetically. "Rehearsal have been rough, hey?"

I nodded glumly. "I haven't been able to sing properly so I'm a bit restless." 

"Cheer up though, school's officially out for Christmas. What are your plans besides rehearsing?" 

"Not much, my parents are busy rehearsing for their own shows," I replied, pouting. "I'll probably try to catch up with Justin one day, and spend some time with Sasha and Joshua." 

Theo tilted his head. "Sasha Li, the one who dances, right?" 

I smiled. "You really do know everyone." 

He rolled his eyes, grinning. "Speaking about everyone, there's someone whom you've kissed waiting for you by the door."

I shoved Theo playfully. "Which one now? You've got to be more specific -- is it a boy or girl? Blonde or brunette? Black or white--"

"Whoa there." 

I guffawed. "Kidding! Or maybe not."

Theo rolled his eyes. "This one doesn't know what to do. Even came to me asking for advice. What spell did you enchant him with at the markets? Heard some of your squad talking about it."

My cheeks warmed. "Talking about...?"

"How you two were stuck together the entire time."

I huffed. "Gotta protect the newcomer, make sure he doesn't get hazed too badly."

Theo's eyes sparkled. "With a kiss on the cheek?"

I was sure even my ears were red now. "Just a thank you kiss. A kiss goodbye. You know me."

Theo chuckled, but then turned serious. "I know you never mean any harm, Lani, but this time, you've got to be clear with your intentions." 

"For sure," I nodded. "Thanks, Class Pres. Don't roll your eyes at me again." 

He did just that, and exited the classroom with his signature smile. 

I gathered my things in my arms once again and headed to the door, momentarily forgetting about the weight. "Deandre?"

He smiled bashfully, a trace of his dimples showing. "Hi."

"How did you know where to find -- oh, never mind," I mumbled off when I caught sight of Theo's smug expression. 

Theo clapped Deandre on the shoulder. "I've gotta run home now, it's all you. See you soon, Lani." 

I gawked after Theo's abrupt exit and slowly met Deandre's gaze, suddenly shy for some unknown reason. "What are you doing here?"

He shifted his weight on his feet. "I thought I'd bring you some orange juice. You know, since you've been practicing hard."

I gaped at the bottle in his hand, then at him. Warmth spread across my chest. "That's thoughtful of you, thank you."

He smiled back, but seemed to have something still on his mind. I grinned and gratefully took the bottle from him. "What's up?" 

He paused. "Um, I was wondering if you had time to visit Gramps during the holidays? He hasn't been doing well, but it's completely alright if you're away."