Trial Of Young Love

Chapter 7

(Xavier's point of view.)

The first time I really started to notice Zoe, she was on her roof. Her auburn hair was a mess, knees pulled tightly into her arms. The moon and streetlight lit up her face enough for me to recognize who was there. I was caught off guard knowing she saw me helping a kitten. Not that it matters much that I'm a decent human. I still didn't want to show anyone weaknesses of mine. By the way she flung back into her bedroom I assumed she saw me notice her. 

The next day I couldn't help but notice she was sleeping next to the lockers. She looked tired, maybe the thought of me catching her kept her up. Some guilt fills my head. Crouching in front of Zoe I observe her face. Curls rest on her arms along with her head, breathing at a perfect rhythm. Her lashes are long, covering her eyes effortlessly. I'm not sure why I'm so intrigued by her. Looking around the halls are starting to fill with students, maybe I should wake her up. I think about it before standing. I really don't want to draw much attention to myself. 

A small whimper escapes from the sleeping girl before me. I bend just enough to see her face. Her eyes are lightly tearful. Groaning at trying to make a decision I tap her. She wakes almost instantly our faces close enough to strike fear that our lips might touch. Looking at me with wide blue eyes she slams herself back into a locker. Maybe I was too close. She stands up, her forehead reaching only my neck. The thought of her being so close forces me to turn away. I can't help but think her cold, confident posture is cute. I make a point of not wanting people to know I help a street cat. I've built up too much of a mean kid reputation, I can't just throw it out the window. I look the part, but I have to act the part as well. 

After that day my eyes just wouldn't leave her, it was out of my control. I don't feel a specific way about her, she's just, different. While doing my personal research I can tell she lays low for the most part. Not wanting to be seen. She always carries such a giddy smile, unless she speaks to me. Then there's the way she speaks with James. Uncomfortably higher pitch of tone, awkward small talk. Really working up her 'nice girl' act. It kind of pisses me off, not the fact she's flirting with a man, just who she flirts with. James. My number one nemesis. He acts high and mighty but really he's the lowest piece of shit I know. 

That brings us to present day. It's the day after Zoe's father, Derek hurt her. Seeing such distress being caused by family boiled my blood. One thing I can't put up with are bullies. Those who take their anger out on weaker beings are lower than life itself. Her limp at school was noticeable to everyone, drawing attention from every hall, every class. In all honesty, it might also be due to the fact that James practically threw himself on her when the opportunity arose. That's not attention I need in my life right now. My goal is to lay low and get through my final year of high school. 

Study hall came, I walked in a little late. Noticing Zoe and James sit at the table together alone irritates the shit out of me. I see him hand Zoe an ice pack. I think she might be a little dumb. Scoffing I turn and find a table closest to the back of the room. I hide the icepack I had picked up for her in my bag, how stupid.  My head is spinning, maybe I should just close my eyes for a bit. 

"Are you okay?" A whisper collects in my ear. I look up, Zoe's staring at me, her curls almost tickling my face. I wave a hand back and forth dismissing her. 
"I'm fine, just tired." She crouched next to the table, her hands resting on the edge. 
"I'm sorry, is it because of me?" I look her up and down. Of course, it's because of her. 
"Yep." I lay my head back down. "I just need a nap." Trying to ignore her presence is hard, she's stubborn and doesn't leave. 
"Thank you, again. I'm sure it was a lot for you, I really do appreciate it." Her voice is so concerned and genuine. It's annoying me. Lifting my head once again I lean close to her. 
"Your ankle seems to be doing better." She lightly blushes, this is too easy. If I push just enough maybe, she'll walk away.