RIVALS | [ d.m ]

Chapter 4

Conflicted
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Ember and Bexley had Charms currently, leaving me alone in the library. I had a free period since we didn't have music class today—And I decided to finish up some of my Herbology homework.

As I was scribbling down which creature guards Wiggentrees; I felt someone sit beside me.

"Hey," Zander sent me a smile, showing off his pearly white teeth.

I dropped my quill as I looked over at him. He rubbed the back of his neck, his voice quiet so we wouldn't get kicked out.

"I just um—I wanted to make it clear that nothing happened between Armstrong and I." He established, making my brow raise. "And I know she probably told you some—"

"She didn't tell me anything," I mumbled, shutting my book. "Except that I should stay away from you."

Just as I was about to stand up, he placed his hand over mine.

"Stay, please." He asked softly.

I felt myself slowly blink as I contemplated it.

Should I hear him out?

Ember and Bex's words kept ringing in my ears—And I should listen to them. But I wanted to see what he had to say;

So I sat back down.

"What happened then?" I asked, pulling my hand away from his. I swallowed thickly as he ran a hand through his hair, releasing a sigh.

"Okay, so like—Armstrong is pretty, and we kissed once. But then after we kissed; she wouldn't stop bothering me. We never made anything official," he explained, shaking his head. "And then when I finally told her that I didn't want a relationship, she went ballistic on me. She talks shit about me to everyone when I didn't even do anything."

I didn't know whether or not to believe him.

He took note of my suspicious look, leaning forward. "I didn't do anything, Rivers. I swear—I fucking swear." He promised.

I searched into his green eyes—And I only saw prosperity. He seemed like he was telling the truth; and then I found myself nodding.

"I guess I believe you."

He slightly slouched in his seat—A sigh of relief leaving his lips. "Thank god."

"But I'm not going to do anything with you," I warned, raising my brows. "I'm not interested in being—"

"I just need help with that test," his lips curved into a smirk, crossing his arms. I gulped as his smirk grew. "Don't flatter yourself, Rivers. I'm only asking for a simple favor. But if you're not down...I guess I'll just wing it." He began standing up, shrugging his shoulders. He was about to walk away until I grabbed his hand, mentally cursing myself.

"Wait."

He looked down at me.

I inhaled sharply, biting my lip. "I'll help you—But on my terms. I'm only available right after dinner," I told him, dropping my hand away from his. "Are you free then?"