The Hottie Next Door

Chapter 11: Wisdom comes with time

CHAPTER 11

I woke up to the strong sunlight pouring into my room. Sitting up, I stretched my arms above my head. Now fully awake, I checked the time and realized I had two hours to get ready. This time, my alarm hadn't even gone off.

That's weird, I thought. I pulled the covers back and went to the bathroom to wash my face and brush my teeth. Coming out, I felt more refreshed. As I stood there, I debated whether to shower now or later. I decided I'd save it for when I got back from school—it would be a nice way to wind down after the day.

I checked my phone again, scrolling through emails and texts. Nothing important. I sighed, rubbing my eyes. I wondered how I'd make it through school today. Emma, you've only got a year left. You can do this, I told myself, trying to convince myself that the year would end soon enough.

I glanced into my closet, looking for clothes that would make me feel invisible. I grabbed a pair of black jeans, a white shirt, and a black hoodie with white Converse shoes. I rushed downstairs and quickly said goodbye to my mom.

I walked briskly, checking the time. I was half an hour early for my first class. Slowing my pace, I slipped my headphones back in and kept listening to music.

I made my way toward the parking lot, entering through the back entrance. Not many people knew about this way in, so it was quieter, and I could avoid most of the crowds. Just as I reached the door, someone stepped into my path, dressed in a crisp black suit with shiny shoes.

A puff of smoke hit me, and I coughed, waving it away with my hand. I pulled my headphones out, ready to lecture this person about how harmful smoking was and how they should stop.

"Nice to see you here. I haven't seen you in a while. Where have you been hiding?" He grinned, putting out his cigarette.

"Obviously hiding from you..." I muttered.

"And other people," I added quietly.

"That's not really nice. I haven't seen you in your room either," he teased.

"Wow, that's not creepy at all," I shot back, folding my arms.

"It's not creepy, it's being concerned."

Why would he be concerned about me? I thought, confused.

He shuffled his feet and stepped closer. I saw an opening between his arms and ducked under them to escape his approach. I glanced back at him, sticking my tongue out playfully before running up the stairs.

I reached the second floor, slipping into the hallway. I peeked out of the doorway, checking both sides for anyone before entering. The silence and warmth of the hallway made me feel at ease. The stark floors and blue lockers created a pleasant contrast as I walked through, finding a seat in the corner of my register class.

I pulled my headphones out and tucked them into my bag. I'd started listening to music less often after my mom reminded me that it could harm my ears. With that in mind, I decided to give my ears a break.

I pulled the blinds up next to me, letting the sunlight warm my skin. I stared out the window, watching the trees and buildings. I wondered what it would be like to be free—like a bird flying through the sky. But then, I remembered that in this reality, I couldn't be a bird. To survive, I had to work hard, live a better life, and not settle for an average existence. I wanted to be better.

I pulled out my books and started reading ahead, tackling the next chapter we hadn't covered yet. I jotted down notes, highlighting key points and making color-coded sticky notes with keywords. I lost track of time, and before I knew it, the room had filled with people.

A shadow moved in the corner of my eye, and I saw someone sit three rows ahead of me.

That's weird, I thought. That looks like Ewan, especially with his clothes.

I stared at the back of his head, trying to catch a glimpse of his face. It was odd that he didn't even acknowledge me with a "hi." A little part of me felt uneasy that he hadn't annoyed me this morning. As I doodled in my book, bored out of my mind, the register was done, and the bell rang.

"Alright, class. As you know, this week we're doing a switch program, where teachers from different subjects will cover new topics. I'll be leaving you in the capable hands of Mr. Daniels," our teacher announced.

That was it—I was officially doomed. I knew I was bound to get him in my class. Great. Maybe if I acted like he wasn't there, he'd ignore me. But if I ignored him, he'd make me stay after class and ask why. I could glare at him, but knowing him, he'd probably enjoy the attention.

Argh!! I rubbed my temples, trying to come up with a game plan.

Ping! Ping!

I glanced at my phone. A text from Beth popped up.

Hello :) Yooooooo

Are you stuck in that stupid switch program?!

Yes, I am. I'm actually so done right now.

Haha, don't worry. Just deal with it—it's only two hours.

You're right, ngl.

I'm always right.

I laughed, but then I noticed people were staring at me. Blushing, I quickly looked down at my phone.

Before I could reply, my phone was snatched from my hand. I looked up in shock at the person who took it.

"You do know you're not supposed to use your phone in class, Ms. Cranford?" He turned and walked away, his back now my focus.

"Erm, when will I get my phone back, sir?" I asked, trying to hide my frustration.

Please. Please. Please don't say—

"After school," he said with a smirk.

I silently groaned. I knew he'd done this on purpose.

I nodded and looked out the window, turning my head away from him. I just wanted to be left alone. Closing my eyes, I took a deep breath.

"Ms. Cranford! Are you sleeping right now? In class?!" Mr. Daniels' voice cut through the air, making me snap my eyes open. "I am very ashamed of your behavior. This will earn you two weeks of detention."

I glared at him, but at least it wasn't after school detention.

"After school detention," he said with a grin.

I groaned, rolling my eyes. Great. Well, at least we'll have some bonding time—time for me to get all my homework done.

While the rest of the class had their eyes glued to their textbooks, he winked at me. My mouth fell open in disbelief. Little did I know, someone had witnessed this.

TO BE CONTINUED.

________________________________

Since a lot of you asked for an update.

I'm truly sorry it's late, I had to plan out the next chapters.
I hope you enjoyed this

Next chapter coming soon.

Hugs and kisses

~B.