Then There Was You

Chapter 10: Friend or Foe

Lilah

The bell rang sounded the end of the school day. As I gathered my things, from the corner of my eye, I saw Theo coming towards me.

"Hey, are you ready to go?" I asked while shoving my binder into my backpack.

Theo stared at me, confused. "Don't you have a music class today?" he asked with an amused chuckle.

"Right," I sighed, face-palming myself while Theo shook his head in disappointment.

"Shit, how are you going to get home? This could take a while," I said, only now realizing that he'd have to wait on me.

Theo waved a dismissive hand, "I don't mind waiting. Not like I have anything better to do," he shrugged as he followed me out of the classroom to my locker.

"Need a hand with that? I volunteer as a pallbearer," Theo said as I pulled the wooden case out.

I cocked my head in confusion, "What?"

Theo motioned to the case in my hand, "That thing looks like a small coffin," he said and I rolled my eyes.

"Very mature," I said before placing it in his lap.

Theo examined the varnished wood, "I've never seen a wooden violin case before. It's pretty cool," he said with an approving nod.

"Thanks. It was a costume made for my gramps. But I made them add the flowery finish," I said proudly, tracing my finger over the carved flowers.

"Nice touch," Theo said.

   I flashed him and thankful smile, and then we were on our way to Ms. Tupin class classroom. She's our music and theater teacher. As we went through, I wasn't surprised by the many pairs of eyes following us around. After last Sunday, Theo and I restarted going to school together. Clover had been kind enough to spare me the gossip, but it was clear that everyone had their speculation about us. Lucky for me, I didn't need to care since Theo seemed indifferent as well.

When we reached Ms. Tupin's classroom, I giggled the nob to find it locked.

"She's in the auditorium," a girl passing by us said.

"Oh, ok. Thanks," I called after her.

Theo and I shared an understanding nod before we turned in the direction of the auditorium, which was located in the other building.

"Hold up. Let me get us some snacks. You go ahead," Theo said pointing at the vending machine near the water fountain.

"Alright," I said and grabbed my violin from his lap.

"What should I get you?" he asked.

Stepping backward, I pondered my options out loud, "I can't choose between BBQ Lays and Skittles," I admitted after a while.

Theo simply shrugged, "I'll just get you both," he said, his tone decisive.

A shy smile made its way onto my face and I had to avert my eyes.

Why was this so cute?!

"You ok?" Theo asked and I raised my head to find him looking at me anxiously.

"Totally... and thank you," I nearly stammered.

"Chill, Delilah, it's just candy!" I chastised myself and then cleared my throat.

"Pointing at the orange building behind us, Theo nodded before I could even excuse myself.

   Upon entering the auditorium, I grinned back at the curious freshmen who eyed me with surprised confusion. Ms. Tupin stood on the large stage, telling them all about the play they'd be putting together this year as a fundraiser for their senior trip. Memories of ninth grade brought a smile to my face. I'd taken up the role of Annie in our musical. The months of rehearsals and set building made me embrace my artistic side. I felt free to be myself, and Ms. Tupin quickly became my favorite teacher.