Broken

Chapter 4

As I walked out of the school doors, I spotted my friends gathered near the smokers' corner. It was odd; we didn't smoke.

"Hey guys," I called out, waving them over.

"Yo, Mikey! What's up, bro?" Caleb said, strolling over and giving me our usual handshake.

"Why are you guys hanging out by the smokers' corner?" I asked, puzzled.

"Eh, thought we'd try something new," Caleb shrugged nonchalantly.

"Oh, haha, okay," I replied, though I was still a bit confused.

We joined the rest of the guys who were lounging around.

"So, Mike, how was your day with the girl?" Luke asked, a smirk playing on his lips.

"I thought it went really well," I said with a genuine smile.

"Tell us about her," Caleb prompted, his curiosity piqued.

"Well, she's very quiet, fifteen, about 5'3", and she just moved here. She's incredibly gorgeous, and her personality is absolutely adorable. She stutters when she talks, and I'm pretty sure she has anxiety, but I think she might be the one," I said, my smile widening as I spoke about Emily.

"Nice, man. But why do you always pick the quirky ones?" Luke chuckled.

"She's not quirky, she's just shy. I'm sure if she gets to know me better, her anxiety will hopefully ease," I responded.

"Whatever you say," Luke said, rolling his eyes but still smiling.

"You should let us meet her tomorrow," Caleb suggested with enthusiasm.

"Yeah, that sounds like a good idea," I agreed.

"Well, I've got to head home before my mom starts nagging," I laughed.

"See you guys tomorrow!" I called out as I turned to leave.

"Bye!" they all chorused.

I headed home, where I eagerly recounted my day with Emily to my mom. Since I don't have any siblings, my mom and I are particularly close. My dad works long hours and isn't around much, so my mom and I share a special bond.

I told her about my concerns that Emily might have anxiety and what I'd observed about her. My mom suggested that it could stem from a difficult past or just be part of her personality. She reassured me that the more I get to know Emily, the better I might understand the reasons behind her anxiety.

For the rest of the night, my thoughts were consumed with Emily. It's funny how when you really like someone, they seem to occupy your mind constantly.