Hanging With The Bad Boys (Edited)

Chapter 4- Me? I Would Never

FRIDAY

Tonight, I'm having dinner with Chelsea, who's bringing her nephew, about my age and possibly my classmate.

I woke up at 6:30 am, just in time for Justin to pick me up at 7:30 am. I'm looking forward to shopping with them tomorrow; they plan to reorganize my closet. On Monday, I'll either ride my motorcycle or drive my SUV.

Dinner is at one of my favorite expensive restaurants. I'll wear jeans and a tank top with a matching jacket since I don't own any dresses.

After showering, I put on sweatpants and a fitted shirt, let my hair down, grab my bag, and close my bedroom door. I fry an egg quickly for breakfast, having it with bread and milk. My dad left for work early, but he should be back in time for dinner, and he seems happier than he was three years ago.

After eating, I lock the front door and head to my usual spot. I check my phone and see a text from Luke.

Quiet boy: Hi Anne, Justin can't make it today, so I'll pick you up instead.

Me: No problem, just come to the address.

Five minutes later, a black BMW pulls up. Luke rolls down the window and says, "This is Kyle's; mine's a motorcycle."

"Okay then, let's go," I reply.

When we arrive at school, I let Luke get out first, then I follow.

Every girl nearby looks surprised. I laugh as I overhear whispers.

"What's with that nerd hanging out with the bad boys? Even I could get close to them."

"Yesterday it was Justin; today it's Luke. Who's next, the twins?"

"I need to find out her secret for getting near them."

I walk in with Luke, and Jordan smiles, putting his arms around my neck, while Jacob does the same from the other side, leaving me in the middle of six boys. People gasp as we approach my locker—at least Stephanie isn't there. I grab my books, and the bell rings, sending the boys off in different directions.

In chemistry, Carlos is late. When he arrives, he smiles and sits next to me—he's my partner. Suddenly, our vice principal, Mrs. James, storms in, drenched in orange paint.

Everyone laughs as she turns red and screams, "Mr. Charles, where are you?!"

Carlos stands, grinning. "Right here, Miss! Can't you see I'm trying to study with my dear partner, Anastasia?"

She snaps back, "I know you dumped that bucket of paint over the door."

Feigning shock, he replies, "Me? Never! I've been here with Anastasia all along, haven't I, Mrs. Kelly?"

She confirms, "Yes, Mrs. James, I have him present."

Mrs. James likes Carlos since he always gets the highest grades among the boys. She warns him, "This isn't over, Charles; you won't be so lucky next time." Then, she leaves, and everyone starts chatting while the teacher sighs and resumes the lesson.

***

During lunch, everyone talks about Carlos' prank. I sit with the guys while Kyle discusses the upcoming race with Jordan, Justin and Carlos plan a drinking contest, and Jacob sends flirtatious glances to girls, while Luke and I sit in silence.

"There's a party tonight. You guys in?" Justin asks.

Luke and I reply simultaneously, "I'll be busy."

Luke shrugs, and I remember I need to share something with them.

"Guys, I have something to tell you."

Jacob pretends to gasp, "You're on your period? Yeah, we know. We're not stupid."

Carlos slaps him on the back of the head. "Shut up, idiot; continue."

I whisper, "Mr. Alvin Montez, the big business owner in two countries, is my father."

I bury my head on the table, waiting for a reaction.

Jordan breaks the silence. "I can hear that party every week."

Someone taps my shoulder, and I look up to see Justin staring at me.

"I know you guys probably hate me," I say.

Jacob rubs my back. "No, we don't. I can't imagine what you went through when your mom was arrested."

Jordan adds, "I thought Anne was pretty."

I laugh and push him playfully.

Justin assures me, "We're good, Ana; it's okay. You'll always have us to support you."

I smile.

Kyle suggests, "Group picture!"

We huddle together with me in the middle as I pull out my camera.

I snap a photo and show it to the boys. "Definitely a keeper."

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