CHAPTER 19

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JUSTINE

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JUSTINE

We hurried to my house so I could change for school. My dad grilled me again about sleeping in the guest bedroom and staying innocent.

What he doesn’t know won’t hurt him—especially after the not-so-innocent night we’ve just had.

When we arrived at school, Jayden asked if I was ready to confirm the rumors about our relationship. I agreed, knowing that we've had enough time to solidify our bond, even if it’s still relatively new.

I wanted the same freedom other couples enjoyed, even though we’re not a typical pair. This confirmation would undoubtedly be the talk of the school for weeks, especially with Mitch and Chantel's suspension also making waves.

As we walked together, fingers intertwined, the hallway buzzed with murmurs and whispers. Some admired our chemistry, while others speculated it was just a publicity stunt. Unfazed, I smirked and adjusted my sunglasses. This is my man, and I’m proud to be with him.

We made our way to Chantel's locker, exchanging greetings. As usual, she teased Jay, but this time it was a compliment—she could see how happy I was. Jay tends to be reserved around others, but I know he secretly enjoys their banter. He bid us farewell, but not before calling me over for a lingering kiss. I know he appreciated the gesture; it was our way of showing everyone that I’m taken.

I turned to Shaina after my bold move, anticipating her reaction. "You guys are adorable! I’ve never seen you so comfortable and smitten with anyone. And he looks like he’d do anything for you. You don’t have to rub it in my single face," Shaina said with a hint of envy. "I guess ‘it wouldn’t work’ and ‘we’re from different worlds’ were just excuses you used to avoid jumping on his dick," she added with a chuckle.

"Shaina, please don’t remind me. I’m a living example of 'never say never,'" I said, lightly slapping my forehead in embarrassment. "The way he said 'baby, come here' and you moved in sync—it was like a scene from a movie," she exaggerated, referring to the kiss.

"Wait, your glow is screaming 'I had the best night of my life'! Tell me every juicy detail. That guy looks like he knows what he’s doing in the sheets," she teased, making me blush. "Isn't that TMI?" I asked, trying to hide my smile. "Well, people use TMI to avoid hearing things that make them uncomfortable, but I, on the other hand, really want to know every detail," she said, spreading her arms wide as we walked towards class.

"Let me assure you, this is just a ‘happy girl’ glow, not a ‘humping like rabbits’ glow," I said sassily. "It was nothing over the top, but it was the perfect way to end the day on a high note. And I know there’s more to come," I added with a wink as we held hands and headed to class together.

After school, I got a text from Jay asking me to meet him in an empty classroom. I rushed in and jumped into his arms, telling him how much I missed him. Feeling affectionate, I asked for a kiss, but he playfully turned his cheek away.

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