Taking Chances

Chapter 3

I let Jared lead me through the halls willingly, honestly not knowing where S.S. class was, but glad Jared did; or seemed to.

"So, how was your middle school experience?" I tease, knowing he was dreading middle school last time I saw him.

He was totally freaking out and wouldn't stop rambling on and on about how he was going to 'die' in fifth grade, yes he was one of those kids.

He nudges me playfully but answers "Bloody horrible, you have no idea how glad I am to be here." I giggle at his response, his answer sounds so ridiculous. High school doesn't seem a whole lot better then middle school, not the slightest in fact.

"Don't start that with me." He says, hearing my giggle. Even though I know he's not mad or anything I feel my face flush anyways.

I shush him as we enter the class. When we first enter I'm not sure where to sit but I finally settle on a seat my a window towards the middle.

I notice Jared sitting to my left and smile. This year shouldn't be too bad as long as he's sitting next to me. Well, at least a few of my classes won't be so bad. I honestly don't know about the rest of them.

I settle down and open my book to the chapter, my eyes scanning the page. That's when I hear a crash and pain shooting through my skull.

I hear yelling and blink wearily at a figure standing over me, I expect Jared's blue eyes and brown hair, but I met by black hair, tattoos, piercings, and brown eyes. What the heck? My head pounding as warm arms wrap around me and lift me up off the ground. I must've fallen...

"Are you okay?" Dylan's voice gentler then I've ever heard it, and his eyes staring directly into mine. A weird squirmy feeling bubbles in my stomach. 

 I shift awkwardly and look over his shoulder to see my classmates, or a blurry version of them.

"Uh yeah. Why are you here?" I don't know why I'm asking, I should be thanking him for making sure I'm alright, but the words simply come out and there's nothing I can do to stop them.

His warm expression completely turning to ice with that single sentence. He releases me, making me support myself. Wow his mood changed fast I think as I struggle to keep upright.

"I was dropping off a few paper for Mr. Sims when you got hit in the head with a base ball" I'm almost startled by his sharp tone, but manage to keep my neutral expression. My fingers find the hem of my shirt and I twist the fabric, I know, I know, it's a horrible habit. Following his eyes, I look to the broken window. Someone's going to get in a lit of trouble for that...

I silently watch him as he stands and brushes off his pants, even though there's not a speck on them.

"I'm going to got to class now, you have a nasty bump on your head by the way. I'd go to the nurse if I were you." He mutters, not looking at me. Instinctively I reach up and touch the small bump on my head he mentioned. I wince as soon as my finger makes contact.

Dylan's eyes soften slightly, he holds out his hand for me to take. Hesitantly, I take it and let him lift me up, on my feet. Relieved to feel the ground beneath my feet.

"Thanks." I mumble, looking down.

"Hey, Alice. Do you want me to take you to the nurse?" Jared offers, I blink in surprise. I completely forgot he was there. I smile, but before I can respond Dylan interrupts me.

"I'll take her, don't worry." Dylan said rather firmly, before adding "It's on my way anyways."

I look at him in slight surprise. He's crazy, why is he even offering to walk me? Also why the heck does my brother like him? ...... I guess he can be nice. If he wants to. It takes me at least seven minutes to realize both Jared and Dylan are looking at me.

"I'm going to walk by myself." I decide, standing up and slinging my bag over my shoulder. It was already half way through class and I didn't expect to get back for it was over. With a small wave to Jared and Dylan I walk up to Mr. Sims who was watching from a few feet away.

"Can I have a hall pass?" My hand is out in front of me waiting for the small slip with his signature on it.

"Oh, no problem." Mr. Sims said, bearing down on a table and signing the slip.

Once it's in my hands, I slip out of the classroom and into the empty hallway. Personally, I love roaming empty hallways. No big crowds of intimidating kids, and no looming teachers. Except those who make sure no one is loitering.

Wait? Where's the nurse's office?  I mentally slap myself for not excepting Jared's help.

"Lost?" I cringe at the sound of Dylan's voice, turning around slowly I see him. 

He's towering over me and wearing the cockiest smirk I've ever seen. It takes all my willpower not to punch him in his 'perfect' face. Thank God I was raised to control my emotions.

"No." My voice firm, I don't know why but the thought of him having any leverage on my makes me want to hurl. Even if it is as simple as him showing me the nurses office.

"Well... I guess I'll be in my way."

As he walks away, I silently debate if I should ask for his help or not. Finally caving, I call out "Fine you pain in the-" Biting my lip as he turns to me, his eyes warning me not to finish my sentence.

"If Kasper wasn't your brother.'" He growls, walking menacingly up to me. Trying to hide my growing fear, I scoff in response.

"Haha, and if you weren't Kasper's friend." I shoot back, my words laced with venom. My agitation only grows stronger as a smile spreads on his face. What the heck is wrong with him? He hasn't been this annoying, ever, and I've known him for the past ten bloody years.

"C'mon, I'll show you where the nurses office is. Follow me and keep up." Dylan call over his shoulder, walking away from me without looking back.

Glaring daggers at him I follow, for each step he takes I have to take three to match. What else was I supposed to do? Wonder around the school? no thanks.