If Only You Knew

CHAPTER THREE

John was the last person to get into the classroom so there wasn't many seats left. He scanned the room and saw there was two spots left at the back of the class right next to the window and he quickly claimed it. He settled in, pulling out his notebook and pens and was ready for the day. Just as Mr Jefferson was about to close the door, Emily ran in at the last second

"Sorry, sir. I just needed to go to the bathroom," Emily explained, attempting to excuse her tardiness.

Mr. Jefferson nodded understandingly. "That's alright, Emily. But remember, if you hadn't arrived in time, I would have had to lock you out and send you to the principal's office," he said, reminding her of the consequences.

"Yes, sir. I'm really sorry. It won't happen again," Emily replied, making her way into class.

John's school had introduced a new program a few months ago. It was intended to encourage students to arrive to class on time but now it just terrifies peoole. After the bell rang at the end of class or end of lunch breaks students would have five minutes to make it to class and if anyone is not in class as soon as the second bell rang the classroom door would be locked and the teacher would send them to the principal's office and be given detention. John had gotten a few detentions due to this program but a few teachers have a habit of abusing the system by locking the doors a few minutes before the second bell would ring leaving him and anyone else who was still out little time to enter class. As Emily looked around the class, she noticed that the only available seat was right next to John. She took the seat, and as soon as she sat down, John's heart seemed to skip a beat. John started to daydream about her but However, he was brought back to reality when Mr. Jefferson spoke.

"Now, class, I want you all to continue working on your assignments. And remember, if you need help, don't hesitate to ask me. I'm always happy to assist," Mr. Jefferson addressed the students before settling back into his chair.

Thirty minutes passed, and John found it increasingly difficult to focus on his work. His attention kept drifting to the beautiful blonde girl sitting beside him. Eventually, Emily noticed John's gaze and turned to face him. It took him a few seconds to realise he had once again become lost in his thoughts.

"Can I help you john" Emily whispered, her curiosity piqued.
John instantly snapped back to reality, pretending he hadn't been staring. He buried himself in his work, hoping to avoid any further embarrassment. However, moments later, he felt a tap on his shoulder, and he turned to see Emily staring right at him

"Could you please tell me why you keep looking at me? It's very creepy, and disturbing, John," Emily said, her voice laced with a hint of annoyance.

John attempted to brush it off with a lie. "What, No, no, I wasn't starring at you Emily, I was just looking out the window," he said, pointing toward the front of the class near the door.

But Emily wasn't convinced she knew John was lying. "Yeah, nice try. Now, talk," she demanded.

John knew he could lie his way through this one he was able to lie other times but this time it was no use. John took a deep breath, mustering up the courage to be honest. He locked eyes with Emily, captivated by her stunning blue gaze that seemed to penetrate his soul.

"I... I wanted to ask you out, but I don't have the courage to do it," John confessed, finally releasing the weight that had burdened his chest.

Emily was taken aback by his admission. "Me? But why on earth would you want to go out with me?" she questioned, genuinely surprised.

John's nerves were on edge, but he found himself going further than he ever imagined, and he knew there was no going back now. He took another deep breath, gathering his thoughts before speaking.