Skating on thin ice

Chapter eleven: not your regular school dah

Jossan

I woke up the next morning with a grin on my face, the events of last night still fresh in my mind.

As I got ready for school, I couldn't help but wonder how Mat would react when he saw me.

Only one way to find out.

I put extra effort into my appearance, choosing a cute skirt that showed just enough leg to be interesting without breaking dress code.

If Mat wanted a show, I was going to give him one.

As I walked into school, I could feel eyes on me. But there was only one pair I cared about.

I spotted Mat at his locker, surrounded by his usual group of hockey guys. Taking a deep breath, I walked over, making sure to add an extra swing to my hips.

Jossan: "Morning, boys," I said, leaning against the locker next to Mat's.
Jossan: "Beautiful day, isn't it?"

Mat turned, his eyes widening slightly as he took in my appearance. I saw his gaze staying on my legs for a moment before snapping back up to my face.

Mat: "Morning, Wood," he said, his voice casual but with an underlying tension that made me want to grin.
Mat: "Sleep well?"

I smiled innocently.

Jossan: "Like a baby. Though I did have the strangest dream about forgetting my clothes somewhere. Isn't that weird?"

Mat's friends looked confused.

Mat: "Yeah, that is weird. Maybe you should be more careful about where you leave your things."

I leaned in closer, lowering my voice so only he could hear.

Jossan: "Oh, I don't know. I think it worked out pretty well for me. Don't you?"

Before he could respond, I pushed off the locker and walked away.

Game on.

As lunchtime rolled around, I was still riding high from my encounter with Mat that morning.

The confused looks on his friends' faces and the tension in Mat's voice had been priceless.

But I wasn't done yet. Not by a long shot.

I met up with Brooke outside the cafeteria, linking my arm through hers as we walked in.

Brooke: "So, what's the plan now, evil genius?" Brooke asked, raising an eyebrow at me.

I grinned, patting my bag.

Jossan: "Oh, you'll see. I came prepared."

We got in line for food, and I made sure to choose things that would work with my master plan.

A salad, some fruit, and...

Jossan: "Ooh, popsicles!" I said, maybe a little too loudly. A few people turned to look at me, but I didn't care.

I grabbed a popsicle and added it to my tray with a grin.

Brooke rolled her eyes, but she was fighting back a smile.

Brooke: "Subtle, Jossan. Real subtle."
Jossan: "I have no idea what you're talking about," I said innocently as we made our way to our usual table.
Jossan: "I just happen to be in the mood for a popsicle today."

As we sat down, I casually scanned the cafeteria. It didn't take long to spot Mat, sitting with his hockey buddies and my brothers a few tables away.

Perfect.

I started with my salad, chatting with Brooke about classes and cheer practice. But I kept one eye on Mat's table, waiting for the right moment.

Finally, I saw Mat look in our direction. Showtime.