Youth Group Popularity

Chapter 13 - Football Games and a Visit

My nails were being gnawed down to the root as Preston and I sat beside one another in Todd's office. Todd sat in his desk as he organized some papers until his desk was cleared. I took a glance at Preston, who wore an expression that I couldn't really decipher. He just stared off into space as he waited for Todd to speak to us.

"How was your week?" Todd asked the both of us.

Preston shrugged, which sent Todd's gaze to me. He had a friendly smile on his face that was heart warming and I could tell he must have had a good day today. I gave him a half-smile and shrugged just like Preston.

"Anything interesting happen?" He questioned.

While still staring off into nothing, Preston stuck out his lip and shook his head. He seemed to be listening, yet distracted at the same time. Is there something wrong with him? My brain immediately assumed it was about Amanda but the reasonable side of my mind told me to not jump to conclusions.

"We, uh, went to a football game with a few friends. But that's really the only thing interesting about this week," I told him, stuttering slightly for some reason.

"Well, I guess if that's it then this meeting is over. Unless there's something else on your mind..." Todd suggested and I shook my head.

"Nope, it's been a pretty boring week," I lied numbly.

"Alright then. Preston, you can go. I need to speak to Elaine for a second."

Preston nodded and without a word, he left. What could Todd possibly have to talk to me about? I really hope it's nothing serious. Maybe it's about Danny? Why would he talk to me about Danny?

"Okay, now that I know what you look like hen you're lying, let see what you look like when you're telling the truth," Todd raised an eyebrow as he spoke.

I swallowed the feeling of guilt and shame as he eyed me. I could feel his judgement burning holes through me and I cowered away by hiding my face with my hair.

"Tell me what really happened this week."

"How do you know something happened this week?"

"Preston seemed a little distracted. He's usually the type to be focused. And you seem a little out of character today."

"Well there's nothing wrong. Honestly. Just some personal stuff that's no big deal," I lied again smoothly.

Todd locked eyes with me for a split second then shrugged. "Fine. You don't have to tell me."

I cleared my throat as the guilt I felt in the pit of my stomach was turning into nausea. I do not handle the sensation of guilt very well. To me, it's the worst feeling in the world.

"Can I go now?" I asked him, avoiding his stern gaze.

"Sure," He said flatly and looked down at some papers that were stacked neatly in front of him.

Without another word, I left the office. The feeling of guilt faded quickly as I got further away from his office. As I headed towards the sanctuary, my phone vibrated in my pocket. I took it out, expecting it to be a text from Lucas or something.

"Me + You + 4 Day weekend = Road trip." the text from Danny read.

I smiled and texted him back with, "Sounds great. This weekend?"

A couple minutes later, he answered back with, "This weekend. Plus, you'll never believe what I got..."

* * * *

My foot tapped involuntarily as I watched the never-ending game. Preston and Amanda sat on either side of me on the bleachers, obviously using me as a human barrier between the two again. When are they going to talk to each other? Amanda's not mad anymore. If she was, then she wouldn't be sitting next to me. I knew she was just angry at the moment.