Internet

1

Dave: Do you really want to risk me sending the picture to everyone you know?

I turned off my phone, shutting my eyes tightly. I could feel my throat closing up as I fought back the tears. Before all of this, I had a completely normal life. Perfect grades, excellent friends, a wonderful family.

~One month ago~

I grinned, fully satisfied with my semester grades. I couldn't wait to show my mom and see her proud face, and then to hear her bragging about me to my family members. Although it was embarrassing, it made me happy that my efforts never went unnoticed. Conceited? A little bit, but who isn't?

My smile grew wider, as I spotted Mark walking towards me. Mark had been my crush since the third grade. To say in the least, I was surprised that in the middle of my Algebra class, he just plopped in the seat next to mine. I, of course, grew giddy with happiness and excitement. I also found out that he had my English and Biology class, which made me even more happier.

"Hey Addy," he said smoothly, slinging an arm over my shoulders.

"Hi," I responded, feeling my body start to tingle.

"So, there's a party tomorrow, Janie is hosting it. I was wondering if you'd like to go with me," his eyes locked on mine, waiting for a response.

"A party? Mark, you know I'm not good with those types of things. I don't even drink or smoke and I don't know anyone from there. What if something bad happens? What if my drink gets drugg-" Mark stopped me with an incredulous look, and I bit my lip, looking down.

"Don't be so dramatic Adaline. Anyways, I'll be there, so it'll be fine won't it?" He smiled at me, giving me a reassuring squeeze.

"But. I have nothing to wear," I tried making up an excuse.

"Nonsense, wear one of those cute jeans and that one creamy blouse."

"But-"

"No buts. It'll be fine. I'll take care of you."

"... Are you sure?"

"Yes."

"Promise?"

"I promise. I'll message you the details later. See ya Addy!"

I sighed, shaking my head. There was no going back now, Mark wasn't someone who forgot things, and once you agreed to something, he wouldn't let you pull out. Mark was adventurous and brave, whilst I was more of the type to hide in my room and read adventures; I didn't have to even leave the comfort and safety of my bed.

Mark and I started talking in the beginning of freshman year, him doing most of the talking, at lunch. I think the only reason for that was because most of his friends went to different high schools. When he first said hi to me, I was extremely shocked, barely able to respond. He had just walked right up to me and started talking as if we were the best of friends. It took me a while to grow comfortable around him, but he wouldn't "give up on me", as he liked to say. It was strange.

I got pulled out of my thoughts by the last bell of the day. School was finally over, and I was ready for summer. I walked out through the main gates of my school, not bothering to look back. After all, there was still one more year before it really did finally end.

I quickly walked to the parking lot, looking around for my mom's van. There were many vans that looked similar, but one day my mom accidentally crashed into a car, and voilah, a dent on the back.

I soon spotted it and quickly got in, buckling my seat belt and tossing my backpack on the floor of the van.

"Hey mom," I greeted, kissing her on the cheek.