You All Over Me [BxB]

Nine

Stella had been spot on. The professor explains the class rules and grading system, and although he discusses a few cases right away, he comes across as affable—strict yet fair.

Not bad for their very first class. Theodore hopes the rest will be similar. A bit of wishful thinking on his part, but it's one way to keep his nerves from eating him alive.

"That was a lot," Stella comments, waving her notebook. "I filled two pages already."

"At least you were right that he wasn't that scary," Theodore replies. "I quite like him. He's straight to the point."

He turns to Austin, who hasn't said a word during class. "Hey, Austin. As I was saying earlier—"

Outside, Steve and Aloysius from Omicron Delta Phi await them, and they pause. Some of their block mates cast curious glances their way but refrain from asking questions.

Or at least not where they could hear it.

Theodore takes a deep breath and turns to Stella. "Stella, go ahead. I'll meet you at the restaurant."

Stella bites her lower lip, tugging at his sleeve. "I'll wait for you."

"It's fine," he reassures her. He doesn't want Stella to be around in case it gets ugly. This isn't her mess.

She sighs and nods in resignation, shooting a glare at Steve and Aloysius on her way out.

"Let's go to the meeting," Steve utters, his tone authoritative and devoid of remorse.

Austin bobs his head politely and moves to their side, avoiding Theodore's gaze.

Steve eyes Theodore. "What are you waiting for?"

Theodore's stomach tightens as he watches Austin. They both have their reasons, but it seems like Austin needs this more.

It's just like what he said—it's different for him.

Theodore stands his ground and firmly states, "I'm sorry, but you should go without me."

Steve pinches his mouth in disbelief. "What? Are you kidding me?"

"I'm not. Sorry."

"After all that, you're quitting?" he asks, incredulous.

It's because of all that, he aches to say. But it's not going to change anything, so he simply replies, "Yes."

"Your father is an active member," Aloysius interjects sharply.

"I'm aware."

And they also made their point very clear when they hit him without holding back.

Moreover, there are many, many things that Theodore has decided for himself—most of which his parents still have no idea about.

This is just the beginning.

"A little beating made you chicken out?" Steve taunts.

Out of nowhere, Jacob emerges from the classroom and steps forward, his gaze unforgiving. Perplexed, Theodore shuffles back a step or two. Jacob stands tall beside him.

Why is Jacob here again? This isn't his mess, either.

"Jake," Theodore murmurs. "It's fine. I got this."

Steve responds with a sarcastic laugh. "And here's another one."

"Just go, Steve," Jacob says, his voice low and controlled. "He's not going to join Omicron."

"Is it because you're like him?" Steve points a finger at Jacob, then wags it dismissively in Theodore's face. "Are you gay, too?"

Theodore snaps, "Piss off."