Crimson Love

Chapter Four

The weekend was over, and that meant all the fun was over. It was time for school again. I was not looking forward to it at all.

As I arrived, the school grounds were buzzing with conversation, mostly on Mrs. Williams murder. Clusters of students surrounded the doors, each with hushed whispers and worried eyes.

Walking around, I found Caroline with Josh and Skyler with Aidan. They, alike everyone else, were talking about Mrs. Williams. Josh and Caroline were having a hushed conversation of their own, but I knew not what it was about because as soon as I drew near they shut their mouthes immediately.

I stood awkwardly, and waited for them to decide what we would do this morning; stay outside and freeze or go inside where there was warmth.

Caroline lead the way, walking inside. We all followed, and headed to our separate lockers. The halls were unnaturally devoid of laughter, yelling and music today. They were silent except for the topic of the day.

Making our way in to Algebra, we all stopped, noticing the substitute teacher at Mrs. Williams desk. She smiled at us and welcomed us in, seeing we were standing in the doorway for an awful long while.

"Welcome Students! I'm Mrs. Abria, and I understand you've all suffered lately, losing your teacher and all, so today you can have a free period, but you must stay in the room, alright?"

There were few shouts of joy, but I could tell everyone was relieved. It was actually nice not having Mrs. Williams here, but I realize those thoughts are quite rude.

Having nothing to do, I sat my desk quietly all of class. Not even Vanessa bothered me today, it was beyond a relief. Maybe my life was taking a high point.

•

The rest of my day went just as well, even English. There was a new transfer student from England named Alexander. As most Americans think, including me, his accent was wonderful. Along with his complexion. His eyes looked almost unnaturally blue and his hair was a raven black. A perfect contrast.

But why am I fawning over him already? I don't know him at all, but I do know his name. Maybe we could be friends. I haven't had a guy friend in a while. Not since sixth grade, before guys started to get really weird.

"So you like the new guy do you?" Skyler questioned, giggling at the same time.

I felt my cheeks heat up and I was certain they were bright red. Of course she saw me looking at him! It was so obvious! I only hope Alexander didn't notice as well. I didn't want to be known as the creepy stalker girl. This town already has enough stalkers.

"So you do?!" She whisper shouted.

"Ahem, ladies!"

Our heads swiveled to the teacher who was looking at us very angrily, brow furrowed, arms crossed.

"Sorry," we replied at the same time. If we weren't in trouble we would be shouting "jinx" right now.

I returned my gaze to Alexander. He really was nice to look at. Then his head turned to me, and I was sure he saw me before I put my head down. I could feel my cheeks warm again.

By the end of class I was sure he caught me looking at him several times. He had smiled at me once, a smirk even.

The bell rang and we all filed outside, catching busses, getting rides or walking. The sun was out and the air was only slightly chilly, so I decided a walk home was in order. I would take the scenic route through the forest.