Crazy,Awkward,Sweet

Mending Maniacs

I stared at Nate as he entered the school the following day. He was dressed much more like himself today. His hair was kempt, his stubble was gone, and his clothes were casual and not at all elastic. The only indication that this Nate was still brewing something dark under the surface, were the dark circles of exhaustion that marred his eyes.

He turned towards me, as if sensing the weight of my skeptical gaze. His lips turned up in a mere sheepish grin.

Beside me, Ezra and Hans took notice. They both nudged me in the ribs, teasing me. But I didn't mind a bit.

I was unashamed of how I felt. Nate may be conflicted about his life beyond me. But I wasn't conflicted about my feelings for Nate. They were as plain as day.

Unknowingly, my heart and head had a talk. They came to the conclusion that Nate was someone extraordinary. And no matter their flaws, people like that are hard to ignore. They demand the attention of even the most hesitant hearts.

He had my attention, indeed.

"Should we tell her?" Hans' voice broke through my reverie.

"Nah, she'll snap out of it and notice she's been staring at that guys butt for the past five minutes." Ezra waved him off. Fully aware of my surroundings, I focused on a butt.

Grimacing, I turned away. "How long was I out this time?" I asked.

"Mmm, ten minutes." Hans answered. "What was going on up there this time?" he asked curiously.

"Do I smell another scheme? Those are always fun, I feel like they always bring the gang together." Ezra sighed wistfully. I cracked a small smile and shook my head.

"No not this time boys...." I paused and caught sight of Pj. She was by her locker, opening it to put away her bag. I watched as she yanked a book out, only to have the contents of her locker fall out.

Frowning, I watched as those around her ignored to help her. Then I saw Sadie walk past her. The sinister Sinclair glanced at Pj dismissively then with her foot kicked a book towards my direction. Then she and her cronies walked away cackling, as if they found it humorous.

Pj glared at their backs then bent down to pick up her things.  Those around her didn't spare her another glance.

I made a move to pick up the stray book Sadie had kicked near me, when Hans caught my arm. "Don't. She made her choice." he shook his head. For the first time since I'd known him. I felt disappointed in Hans. If anyone saw a friend in need, it would be him.

"You and I both know you're not a selfish guy." I frowned, "I'm going to go help her because I believe in second chances. If you don't, then you're not who I like to think you are." I reprimanded him, before I left his side to pick up the book.

I knew I was a little harsh on Hans. His feelings toward Pj were still bitter, I understood that. They had a long history, that abruptly ended. I was partly to blame for that and maybe that's why I felt the need to help Pj.

I approached her as she began to stuff some of her things back in her locker. She stared at me in confusion as I held out her book. Gingerly, she took the book from me.

"Thanks." she mumbled, tucking a stray piece of her hair behind her ear. I smiled and shrugged because it wasn't a big deal.

"Here, let me help with that." I waved her off, as I bent down to pick up some of the stray papers she had. Stacking them neatly, I placed them in her locker. When everything was cleaned up, the hall was clearing out.

First period was starting soon and I had the dreaded class of algebra II. "You didn't have to help me." Pj said after she shut her locker.

"I know." I answered her bluntly, "I could have walked away and ignored you. But I didn't. You know why?" I said softly. Pj furrowed her brows and shook her head.