We fell in love in math class

Chapter 10 "Complications and Confessions"

Xyleme's POV:

Wednesday morning dawned, and the school buzzed with whispers about my so-called "relationship" with Ethan. It felt surreal; studying with someone didn't usually lead to this kind of gossip. I strolled down the hallway, determined to embrace the drama with my trademark humor.

X (thinking): "Time to be charming. If I'm going to be the center of attention, I might as well enjoy it."

As I approached Ethan by his locker, I couldn't resist throwing out a line.

X: "Hey, golden boy! Ready to face our adoring fans today? I hear they're planning a parade in our honor."

Ethan looked up, a smirk forming on his lips.

E: "A parade? Sounds more like a distraction. I'm not sure I'm ready for that kind of attention."

I leaned against the locker, grinning.

X: "Attention is overrated. Just think of it as free publicity for our study sessions."

Ethan's POV:

Xyleme was always full of surprises. His lighthearted approach made the day feel less heavy.

E: "As long as the publicity doesn't involve embarrassing photos, I'm good."

Xyleme nodded, his expression shifting from playful to thoughtful.

X: "Speaking of embarrassing, what do you think about all these rumors? Do they bother you?"

E: "Honestly? A little. It's awkward when people assume things about us."

Lunchtime

At lunch, I decided to address the elephant in the room. I spotted Beyoncé and her friends at their usual table and approached them, feeling mischievous.

X: "So, Beyoncé, any updates on our so-called relationship status? Are we still in the 'just friends' zone, or have we leveled up to 'couple who argues over who eats the last fry'?"

Beyoncé rolled her eyes but couldn't suppress a smile.

Beyoncé: "I think you two are a little more than just friends. You spend all your time together."

Ethan chimed in.

E: "It's true, but I assure you, there are no fries involved-just lots of math problems."

I laughed, shaking my head.

X: "Math? No wonder no one wants to date us! Who'd want a study date over fries?"

As the conversation flowed, I could sense Ethan's comfort around me, and I wanted to keep it genuine.

X: "What do you think about all this? The rumors, I mean. Do you care what people think?"

E: "I used to. Now, I'm just focusing on what makes me happy. And honestly, hanging out with you does that."

Xyleme's POV:

His response struck a chord.

X: "Yeah, I get that. People love to jump to conclusions. It's exhausting sometimes."

E: "Exactly. We should just focus on having fun and not worry about the rest."

As we finished lunch, I felt a shift in the air. Maybe this was more than just a friendship.

After School

Walking home together, I decided to push the boundaries a little.

X: "If we ever went on a date, what kind of couple do you think we'd be? Goofy, serious, or somewhere in between?"

E: "Probably goofy. But I wouldn't mind being serious about certain things."

X: "Like what?"

Ethan hesitated, his eyes reflecting a mix of uncertainty and excitement.

E: "Like having meaningful conversations. I want to get to know you beyond the jokes."

I smiled, feeling my heart race.

X: "That sounds good. I'm all about deep conversations... when I'm not too busy cracking bad jokes."

E: "Well, let's strike a balance then. We can joke around but also talk about the stuff that matters."

Later that Evening - Texting

Later that night, I couldn't shake the warmth from our conversation. So, I texted Ethan, feeling bold.

X: "Hey, just wanted to say I enjoyed our chat today. It's nice to know we can be goofy and serious when needed."

Ethan replied quickly.

E: "I feel the same way. It's refreshing to connect on different levels."

X: "Exactly! And who says we can't have a little fun while we're at it?"

E: "Agreed. Life's too short to take everything so seriously."

As I lay in bed, a sense of anticipation filled me. Maybe something special was brewing between us-something that blended laughter with genuine connection.

X (thinking): "Here's to more of these moments. Laughter, deep talks, and everything in between. I'm ready for whatever comes next."