Adopted By The Hemmings (mgc)

Twenty Two

When lunchtime rolled around Luna began noticing that Michael was acting a little more awkward than usual. He stuttered every time he looked her way, which made her curious. As they approached the door, Luna saw Roxie standing there.

"Roxie!"

"Luna!" Roxie responded with as much fervor as Luna, causing the two of them to break into giggles.

"Before I forget, I would like to formally introduce you to the guys. Roxie this is Luke, Ashton, Michael, and Calum." Each of the boys gave her a small wave.

"I've seen you guys around school, it's nice to finally know your names I suppose." Luna noticed Roxie's eyes linger on Calum before their attention was shifted back to getting food. Roxie looped her arm through Luna's as they walked through the double doors. They left the boys to find a table as they went to pick out the food they wanted.

"So, you and Michael seem a bit cozy today."

"Do we? We're acting pretty much like we usually do. Well, other than the fact he seems to be a little more awkward today than normal. Also, don't pretend I didn't notice you gazing at Calum with longing in your eyes." Luna teased as she added an apple to her tray before moving a little farther down the line.

"Oh please, do not even try to change the subject. I barely know you yet, and I've realized something is different with you." Roxie arched her brow as she pulled Luna to the side on their way back to the boys.

"Do we have to do this now?" Luna shuffled her feet as she glanced around.

"Yes, spill. What's going on?"

"Fine. I finally figured out that I apparently have feelings for Michael." Luna bit her lip, looking around her once more, hoping that no one else heard her.

"Everything makes so much more sense now. I mean, I knew he liked you as well, but it's about time you've both realized it."

"Don't be ridiculous, Roxie. Michael doesn't see me that way." The two of them began walking again, making their way to the round table that the boys have claimed.

"All I'm saying Luna, is that you shouldn't keep your mind so closed." Roxie took a seat next to Calum, leaving the only other open seat next to Michael. Luna sits quietly, eating and thinking over Roxie's words. Roxie began chatting with Ashton and Calum, her eyes rarely wavering from the kiwi boy next to her. Luke and Michael were whispering to each other about who knows what. Sighing, Luna's stomach suddenly grew upset and she shoved her tray away from her. Everything began clouding her mind and it seemed like the entire room was shouting. When she laid her head on the table to try and block out the noise, she felt a hand touch her back gently.

"Hey, are you okay?" She glanced up to find concern in Michael's eyes as well as the other looking at her.

"I'm - I'm okay," she stammered softly as she felt her face heat up slightly. Michael nodded, seemingly satisfied with her answer as he turned to the other boys, his hand simply moving to rest on the back of her seat. Roxie kept glancing at Luna with a knowing look on her face as she began whispering to Calum. Luna's heart drummed in her chest quickly as she listened in to the conversation Luke and Michael were having over one of Calum's notebooks.

"Honestly, the song doesn't need any changes. I think we could start rehearsing this today."

"Have you forgotten that you have detention?" Luke smirked as Michael cursed under his breath.

"Maybe, but detention is only for an hour. We could rehearse afterwards, and that gives you time to work on your homework so Liz doesn't get upset." Luna felt Michael's fingertips graze her arm gently as the two talked. She glanced at his face, but he didn't seem to notice that he was doing it. Her body became warm and she was thankful when the bell rang, signaling that it was time to return to class. She gathered her things quickly, and began speaking quickly,