No Strings Attached

Chapter One

Chapter  One - Christine Walt

I woke up with the shrill of my alarm clock. Blinking the grogginess away, I reached for my phone to check any new messages.

‘1 new message’ it says and I touched the screen to reveal the message, ‘Roses are red, violets are blue, Good morning, sleeping beauty. I dreamt about you… Wake up, C. We don’t want to get late, do we? :) I’ll pick you up after 15 mins. –J”

I rolled my eyes but smiled, there goes Jared with his adorable messages. Ever since he confessed his attraction for me, waking up with good morning texts and brief cute poems always made my day. Sure, cheesy. But who cares?

I hit reply and typed, ‘That’s sweet, J. Have a good morning. I’ll c ya later. –C’

I got up, made my bed and headed towards the bathroom, fixed myself, threw a shirt and jeans on. I checked my reflection on the mirror. Yuck, I look ugly. With these plain features, I wonder what Jared saw and liked me. I sighed as I put some eyeliner on, a lil brush of blush, and applied lip balm on my not-so-perfect lips. There. That's better.  

Hopping down the stairs, I greeted my mom a good morning, kissed my baby sister on the forehead, grabbed a piece of toast, chugged a glass of water, and reached for my backpack. I’m ready to go!  

“What’s the rush, Christine?” My mom settled Charlotte on a high chair and started feeding her. I shrugged and tied my hair on a messy ponytail. Geez, I’m hopeless. I’m a plain and boring teenager. I can’t even gussy up, poor me.   

“Jared’s picking me up in five…” I heard his car’s engine, “…four, three, two…” Ding dong.

My mom raised her eyebrows, “I see.” I laughed at her reaction and gave a flying kiss. “Bye, Charlie!” I called out to my baby sister.  

I headed out and saw Jared Cross leaning adorably in his car. When he saw me, his eyes brightened up, and cocked his head to the side. “Hey.”

“Hey.” I smiled, “What’s up?”  

“You look beautiful today. Had a good night’s sleep?” He sent me a goofy grin and opened the door for me.

“Shut up. You’re just biased.” I chuckled, as he got in to the driver’s seat.

“Nope. You look stunning, really.” He started the engine and we drove away. I pursed my lips and shook my head slightly. Come on, that’s really flattering but I know better.

“Cheesy.” I muttered, looking out the window. Bias and adorable. What a nice combination. I chuckled to myself and heard him say, “Nope. Just truthful.” I grinned and gave him a playful smack. Okay, okay. I get it.

“Hey, watch it. I’m driving.” Jared looked at me with teasing eyes. I stuck my tongue at him, “Eyes on the road.”  

“Jeez. That’s cute.” He smiled at me warmly but then transfixed his gaze on the road.

I scoffed silently. Will he stop praising me? Well, I don’t want to get used to it since his compliments make me giddy inside. I mean, really, flirting isn't my nature.

We're in our school, Willow Park University, now. Jared park the car, got out, opened the door for me and I shook my head at his gentleman-liness. I stepped out of the car and saw Mike Saller. My heart stopped as his emerald eyes twinkled. He's playing around with his friends and  all I can do is gape. He was wearing a dark blue v-neck shirt and black jeans. Even though his outfit is simple, he's still gorgeous. Aww, Mike is so adorable.

"Earth to Christine. Are we going or are you just gonna stand there, foolishly admiring Mike from a distane?" I shook my head to clear my thoughts. "Yeah, sorry." I mumbled, feeling a little giddy. My heart did that flip-flop thing when I met Mike's gaze. Ah, shoot. He caught me staring.

I looked at Jared, his eyes unreadable. Damn. This is awkward. Here I am, being obvious and all while Jared's around. Oh, Christine. Can't you be more sensitive?

“Nah. It doesn’t really matter. I know you’ve had a crush on him since…what? Forever?” He chuckled, giving me an ‘I’m-okay-no-big-deal’ look.  

“Yeah…” I lamely responded. My eyes fixed on Mike again. He’s so… alive. Energetic. Oh well, I don’t have a chance on him. Why bother...