Teacher with Benefits (18+)

Chapter 24

As they walked to the parking lot, Jacqueline knew this secret wouldn't be kept for much longer. The only question was whether Faith could handle it. Would she still remain her best friend?

Faith and Jacqueline got in the car. Faith turned to Jacqueline, her eyes narrowing with concern. "Jackie, I know you've been lying. Something was up with you today, and I know it. You've been my best friend since sixth grade; there's no denying when something's bothering you. Talk to me."

Jacqueline rubbed her forehead, feeling the dampness of sweat. "Look, Faith, it's not that I'm trying to lie to you. I'm just in a really messed up situation. I want to tell you—I do, but I just can't."

Faith's facial expression screamed disbelief as she crossed her arms. "Girl, that's like the worst excuse. I already know your darkest secrets, including what happened with Mr. Anderson! What could be worse than that?"

Jacqueline felt a wave of anxiety wash over her as she looked away, her voice trembling. "Faith, please... I can't talk about this. Another day, okay? It is prom night after all. We should be at home, getting dressed and gossiping!"

Faith's facial expression lighted, but she was still cautiously staring down Jacqueline, "You better tell me after tonight, okay? I demand you. Now, let's get ready for prom."

***

The ride to Faith and now Jacqueline's temporary home was initially full of tension, but the mood gradually lightened as they played their favorite songs and artists. The familiar melodies and beats eased their minds, allowing them to momentarily forget the unresolved issue between them.

When they arrived, Faith parked in the driveway and giddily ran towards the front door, her excitement for prom taking over. She quickly shifted her focus to getting ready for the big night.

"Jackie, do me a favor and ask if Spencer still needs a ride to prom while I get our makeup and hair table ready!" Faith shouted as she dashed inside, her voice trailing off with enthusiasm.

Jacqueline sighed with relief at the temporary reprieve and pulled out her phone, scrolling through her contacts to find Spencer's number. As she dialed, she glanced at the house, a mix of anticipation and dread swirling in her stomach.

Spencer answered, "Hi, Jackie! What's up?"

"Hi, Spencer! I was just wondering if you still needed me and Faith to pick you up."

"No, that's okay! I'm carpooling with Mariah and her date. Super excited to see what you guys are gonna wear tonight."

Jacqueline smiled, feeling the tension of the day slowly drifting away. "I'm excited as well, Spencer! Be sure to bring your bracelet so we can all match. Remember, I have silver, Faith has gold, you have emerald green, and Mariah has sapphire blue."

"Of course! I wouldn't forget. See you soon, Jackie!" Spencer replied cheerfully.

"See you soon, Spencer!" Jacqueline said before hanging up. She turned towards the house, a sense of calm replacing her earlier anxiety.

Inside, she could hear Faith bustling around, preparing their makeup and hair station. The night was beginning to feel more hopeful.

Faith pulled Jacqueline into the bathroom, sitting her down on a chair by the mirror. "You're going first. Let's do your hair, then clothes, and then makeup."

Faith began working on Jacqueline's hair. She carefully parted Jacqueline's long, dark hair down the middle and started braiding small sections from the front, weaving them back into a half-up, half-down style. The intricate braids framed Jacqueline's face beautifully, adding a touch of elegance.