My Valentine

Thirteen

Nightengale Phillips

"Are you going to Reece's party tonight?" My classmate, Joshua asked idly.

I twisted in my seat to look at him, "I don't even know who Reece is."

I had just arrived to History class and it seemed as if Mr. Valentine was running late although we carpooled to get here (I was surprised to see him waiting in the couch this morning when I got downstairs). This was his first class for the day, so the fact that he was late made me curious.

"He's this dude who transferred here a few months ago. He's been advertising the party for weeks now, I'm surprised you haven't seen a flyer or something."

"I've been... preoccupied," I replied while doodling on the desk.

It was a force of habit.

"You should come! Everyone, except you, is pretty psyched about it."

There was no way I was going to crash some kid's party who I didn't even know.

"I'll think about it," I sent a fake smile his way.

"Alright you guys!" Mr. Valentine stormed into the room carrying a stack of papers.
"Put your phones in the bucket or put them on silent."

He clapped his hands together once to get everyone's attention.
Folding his arms, he continued,"I've graded the last pop quiz and I must say that I am both disappointed and pleased at some of your performances." His blue gaze landed on mine for a moment before he turned his attention to the papers on his desk.

I was really putting an effort into History now-a-days and the fact that Marshall believed in me made me work even harder.

This quiz may have been minor, but to me, it meant my ass. If I failed, I didn't know what I'd do next.

Work harder...

He walked around the room, issuing the quizzes and speaking to each student about their performances. I got a great view of his butt multiple times.

I felt his warmth beside me as he placed the paper on my desk. My eyes were closed when he patted me on the shoulder, "Well done."
I opened my eyes and saw the letter 'A' marked on the top.

I almost screeched. I looked toward the white board where he was standing when he'd finished handing out papers, he was looking at me with...something in his expression.

Seriously, he was the only one who ever gave me that look. Maybe that was why I was still unable to place it.

I was beaming. I hadn't gotten such an amazing grade in... probably a year.

"Alright guys, you know the drill! Make your corrections!" He sat in his chair and was going through his desk.

"Wow! Awesome grade!" Joshua said.
I thanked him graciously, already aware of the fact that he'd gotten an 'A+'.

My phone vibrated in my pocket and I looked up to figure out the chances of me getting caught if took my phone out.

Oddly enough, Mr. Valentine looked like he was... staring down at his crotch.

Okay...

It was a bit startling to see who the text message from.

Dimples: I'm so proud of you. I knew you could do it!

My eyes met his. He was smiling slightly

®Gayle: Thank u. It's all bcuz of u. Should u b texting in class, young man? :-D