Secrets | 5SOS

[16]

During a quiet moment in school, Isabella leaned over to Jasper, her eyes bright with excitement. "Hey, Jasper, do you want to hang out later this week? Maybe Saturday?"

Jasper glanced up from his sketchbook, a small smile playing on his lips. "Yeah, that sounds good. Let’s meet at the skatepark?"

"Perfect," Isabella replied, feeling a rush of anticipation.

As Saturday approached, Isabella found herself counting down the days until she could see Jasper again. When the day finally arrived, she dressed in a flowing sundress, enjoying the warm sunlight that streamed through her bedroom window.

Downstairs, Calum was in the kitchen, putting together a sandwich. Isabella entered with a smile, trying to keep her tone casual.

"Hey, Calum," she greeted.

He looked up, returning her smile. "Hey, Bella. What’s up?"

"I’m going out with a friend," Isabella explained. "We’re meeting at the skatepark."

Calum’s expression softened with approval. "That’s great, Bella. You’re making friends. Just be back by 7 pm, okay?"

"I will," Isabella promised, feeling relieved that Calum seemed supportive.

With a quick grab of her backpack, Isabella headed out. At the skatepark, Jasper was already waiting, his colorful hair catching the afternoon sun as he smoked. He put out his cigarette as soon as he saw the girl heading towards him.

"Hey," Isabella greeted, walking up to him with a smile. "Thanks for meeting me, you didn't have to put out your cigarette for me though!"

Jasper pushed off from the railing, a faint smile on his lips.

"Don't want you getting second hand smoke. It's bad for your health"

They spent the afternoon gliding across the smooth concrete, exchanging stories and laughter. Jasper’s ease on the skateboard matched his ability to make Isabella feel at ease. As the sun began to set, casting a golden hue over the park, they took a break on a nearby bench.

"So, why do you smoke?" Isabella asked, curious about Jasper.

Jasper shrugged, his demeanor casual yet guarded. "Helps clear my head, I guess. Takes my mind off things."

Isabella nodded, sensing there was more behind his answer. "Must be tough sometimes."

"Yeah," Jasper replied vaguely, not elaborating further.

They talked about lighter topics—favorite music, hobbies, dreams—as they enjoyed the carefree atmosphere of the skatepark. When Isabella checked the time, she realized with a start that it was past 7 pm.

"Oh no, I’m late!" Isabella exclaimed, feeling a pang of guilt. "Calum’s going to be furious."

Jasper glanced at his watch, his expression apologetic. "I should get going too."

Reluctantly, they parted ways at the park’s exit. As Isabella walked home, she turned onto her street and encountered a group of guys loitering on the corner. One of them stepped forward, eyeing her with unsettling familiarity.

"Hey there, sweetheart," he called out, his voice tinged with arrogance. "Where are you off to in such a hurry?"

Ignoring him, Isabella quickened her pace, but the guy lunged forward and grabbed her arm. Fear surged through her as she struggled against his grip.

"Let go of me!" Isabella cried out, her heart racing with panic.

Jasper’s voice cut through the tension. "Back off!"

He shoved the guy away, his eyes blazing with anger. "Touch her again and you’ll regret it."

The guy and his friends retreated, leaving Isabella shaken but grateful for Jasper’s intervention. He checked on her, his concern evident.

"You alright?" Jasper asked gently. He took off his jacket and placed it around her shoulders.

Isabella nodded shakily. "Yeah, thanks to you."

"Let’s get you home," Jasper said quietly, his protective hand hovering near her arm.