Falling from the Top

Chapter 9

Friday's cheerleading practice was nightmare. Nina couldn't concentrate due, glancing at the bleachers every freaking second. Linda looked like she had two left feet and a small girl struggled to catch her breath. I was on the verge of exploding.

"Girls," I started, putting us back into position. "Focus." I turned around and saw Nina wave at Etienne, who was waiting for her on the bleachers, reading. "OK that's it Nina!" It was the first time I actually spoke to her all week. "Focus or I'll have your little boyfriend get kick out of the field by the football team."

She blushed while the other girls cheered behind me. I told them to get into position for one of our most important routine, that we haven't mastered at all. I looked at the group, gradually correcting their posture. I started the music and analyzed their every move.

"Amanda! What is going on with those hips?! Don't swing them like that, it makes you look fat. And you," I pointed to the girls next to her. " Stop talking. I swear talking this much should be illegal."I shook my head with the rhythm. "Alright, this is better. Get ready to do a cartwheel. In 3, 2, 1! Now."

They all turned to face the left and plunged. I watched half of them fall ridiculously on the floor, while two others collided and fell on top of each other. God help me with them...

"You guys are pathetic!" I scream and the whole court fell silent. "I don't know what is wrong with you today, but if you don't concentrate right now, I will cut you of the team. All of you."

Ava came to stand next to me, as co-captiain. She looked at the girls with a disappointed look deforming her face. They all stood there, shifting their weight on their feet.

"Gosh, look at you! You can't even stand up without looking like idiots."

"Well, it's not like you are very motivating." A girl answered. I knew her, she often sat with us at the table even though her name was a total mystery. She was awfully skinny and her arms hang loosely, as if her bones melted.

"I'm sorry, what was that?" I pretend.

Linda stroked her in the ribs with her elbow, but the little skeleton wouldn't shut up. "Well, I'm sure that Ava would make a better captain. She knows how to motivate us and well, she's nicer."

A hushed whisper travelled around the football field. I frowned. "I see your point, but motivation has nothing to do with the fact that you just can't dance or simply move your ass. Now what could we do to solve that problem?" I tapped my finger against my chin. "Oh wait, I know!" I raised my hands, before pointing my finger to her. "You're off the team."

She stood there, her boneless arms hanging. Her mouth slowly opened but I cut her off. "Scoot!" I yelled, hysterical.

She ran off, faster than any rabbits. I turned to the rest of the team. "Any more opinions?" I asked. After all, they were free to speak but it didn't mean I was going to take it well. They shook their heads negatively. I heard Ava sigh next to me. "Perfect." I clapped my hands. "I expect to see you next week with a better attitude and performance. Who ever thinks they are not capable of doing so, can leave immediately."

Once again, they shook their heads. I motioned them to the changing rooms before facing Ava.

"What?" I asked, picking my bag up for the floor.

She shook her head. "Nothing, I was just wondering what had gotten into you."

"What do you mean? I'm always like this." I started to walk away.

"Yes, in school. But I've never seen you get this angry during practice. As I recall, cheerleading isn't a place for conflict nor for anger."

I stopped in my tracks and turned slowly to face her. "C'mon. You've seen the way they ridiculously failed the cartwheel, how they were distracted. The way Nina kept looking elsewhere." She nodded.

"Yes. I've seen the way she looks at him. And I believe that's what got your panties in a twist."

I sniggered. "As if!"

She looked at me sharply, but I could also see compassion in her eyes. "Oh please. I'm in your french class. I know he's your tutor. I know that you soften around him. I've seen the way you look at him." She smiled softly, before wrapping her arms around my neck. I stood there, frozen. Really?

She released me. "If you need anyone to talk with, I'm here. You know that right?"

I nodded, dumbfounded. With one last smile she left. I looked around me. The football team were continuing their practice after my little outburst. The coach blew, furiously in his whistle. I shift my gaze to the bleachers, meeting with perfect green eyes. NO! My internal voice screamed. This can't be happening. Bury those feelings while you still can!

I closed my eyes, breaking eye contact. I inhaled deeply. I saw every single moment I spent with him, parade behind my eyelids. I saw his smile. His eyes. How good he looks in a white T-shirt. I remembered our kiss, his first kiss. How hesitant he was... I smiled to myself and chuckled. Then, I saw Nina, standing next to him. And I buried to memories in the back of my mind.

I opened my eyes, meeting straight up with his. He looked confused, while I felt...

Emotionless.

Well well well. I know this chapter is short and unedited but I will update an other as fast as I can. I've got only one thing left to say:

Do you think it is possible to bury your feelings so deeply that you simply forget their existence?

XOXO!

THgirl