Miss nobody strikes back

Relax

Chapter fifty nine

   My life has really become something extraordinary. Little me would never have thought it could turn out this way, surrounded by people who make every day better. My wonderful aunt and uncle, my best friend Jenny, Kai, and, of course, Dominic—all of them are like the best things that have ever happened to me.

School, on the other hand, has been a bit of a drag lately. With exams over and graduation approaching, there's a strange, restless energy in the halls. Since we're seniors, the teachers don't have much to keep us busy, which can make classes feel longer. But there's one thing everyone’s excited about—prom. The school announced the date just last week, and of course, we'll be using the school's massive hall for it. I’m not really the party type, so I can't say I'm counting down the days, but Jenny? She’s over the moon.

Today was Wednesday, which means the big basketball match. I couldn’t play today, thanks to a minor injury, but I was thrilled to cheer for my teammates. They’ve stepped up their game recently, and we’re considered one of the best teams at school. Plus, there's a bit of fun gossip—many of the girls on the team are dating members of the “T7,” the nickname for our top boys' group at school. It’s a nice twist, and so far, no one seems to know about Dominic and me. Our relationship is still a mystery… for now.

The boys marched onto the court, and my gaze automatically went to Dominic. He looked effortlessly handsome in his sports gear, the confident set of his shoulders and focused expression making my heart flutter. The game began, and our job as the Tigresses was to cheer them on, supporting our team in every way we could.

After the intense first half, the boys took a break and made their way over to where we were seated on the sidelines. Dominic approached, and I couldn’t resist the smile that spread across my face. "Here, you played well," I said, handing him a handkerchief. He took it from me, wiping the sweat off his face, and flashed me a grateful smile.

"I'm thirsty," he said, looking around.

"Oh, right, let me just…" I began to reach for a bottle of water when, suddenly, he took hold of my hand—the one holding my cup of coffee with whipped cream. Bringing it close to his mouth, he took a sip from my cup, leaving me momentarily shocked. I couldn't believe he'd do something like that in public. But, as my surprise faded, a smile crept onto my face.

"A lot of sugar," he commented, a playful glint in his eye. I laughed, and he gave me another warm smile before joining his friends. I sat back down, still smiling, my heart racing a little faster than before.

Just then, Maggie leaned over with a knowing grin. "Ooooh, so you and Dominic, huh? I’m sensing a lot of chemistry," she teased.

"No, um, we’re just…" I began, flustered.

Lauren interrupted, “Defensive much? Don’t worry, we totally approve of your relationship.” My cheeks flushed, and I could tell they weren’t buying my denials.

"You two make the perfect couple,” Rachel added. “I’ve always shipped you together—the quiet couple, being all cute and mysterious.”

“You guys should stop; Hanna is already blushing. Don’t make her explode!” Jenny chimed in with a smile. Teasing us seemed to be everyone’s favorite hobby lately.

After the game, we headed back to class to chill, relieved to have a break from all the teasing. Thankfully, Claire wasn’t bothering me today. I’d been trying to distance myself from her, and so far, life had been way too good to let her get me down.

"How about we go shopping after school?" Jenny suggested, already buzzing with ideas. "I can’t wait to try on cute prom dresses! I’m already envisioning the perfect color. For you, Hanna, I’m thinking red."

"Red is too flashy,” I replied. “I don’t want to be the center of attention."

Jenny rolled her eyes playfully. "You know me—center of attention is exactly what I want."

“For you two,” she continued, “I think matching outfits would look great. I’m thinking a black suit for Dominic, to match your red dress—hot and sophisticated.”

Jenny was definitely the expert on all things fashion and party-related. Just then, a group of girls approached our table, all smiles.

"Hey, Jenny!" one of them said excitedly. "We were wondering if you could help plan prom. You have the best taste in everything, and we want this to be the best prom ever!"

Jenny tilted her head, considering, and then, with a grin, replied, “It’s going to be lit. Count me in!” The girls squealed in excitement, thanking her repeatedly. “Let’s start tomorrow, though,” she added. “I have plans today.”

As the girls left, Kai draped his arm around Jenny, looking a bit pouty. “Babe, you’re going to be so busy. We won’t have time for each other,” he teased, resting his head on her shoulder.

"Aww, don’t worry, babe,” Jenny cooed, running her fingers through his hair. She leaned in, planting a quick kiss on his lips, but he pulled her into a deeper kiss. I cleared my throat, feeling awkward as they continued.

"Get a room, you two," I muttered, trying to look away. They finally pulled apart, grinning.

"This is just the beginning," Kai said with a mischievous smile, while Jenny winked at me. I rolled my eyes and continued to eat my lunch, trying to ignore them.

After school, Jenny and Kai headed off on their own, leaving just Dominic and me walking together. We strolled quietly for a while, enjoying the calm.

"Do you have anyone in mind for prom?" I asked, trying to keep my tone casual.

He was silent for a moment before replying, "It’s a secret."

I laughed. "Interesting," I said, giving him a playful nudge.

As we reached his car, Mr. Adam, Dominic’s driver, greeted us. "Hello, children," he said warmly. I really am happy that things weren't awkward between us after the yesterday kiss.

"Hi, Mr. Adam," we replied in unison. Dominic opened the car door for me, gesturing for me to get in first. Ever the gentleman. I climbed in, and he followed.

Once we were on the road, Dominic turned to me. "Are you feeling better?"

"Yeah, I am,” I replied. “The meds helped, though they have some side effects. I’ve been feeling a bit dizzy and weak.”

He looked concerned. "Do you feel dizzy now?"

"No, not dizzy, but a little weak,” I admitted.

Without a word, he gently pulled me closer, guiding my head to rest on his shoulder. My heart pounded as his hand softly caressed my shoulder, his touch both comforting and electrifying.

"Relax," he murmured. His soothing tone made it hard to resist. I closed my eyes, letting myself lean into him, feeling lighter than I had all day.

The ride felt peaceful, filled with a quiet warmth that I couldn’t quite describe. His presence, calm and steady, was like a balm to my racing thoughts. For the first time in a while, I allowed myself to simply be, comforted by the knowledge that, at least for now, everything was exactly as it should be.