Rosewood High

Saving Face

Tuesday, September 17th

It was now the next day nearly an hour after the school day ended, and Michael still regretted the moment those words came out of his mouth. Lord knew that he didn't have a date - not even a single option for a date. The thought endlessly reoccurred in his mind.

It didn't help that he had no choice but to spend every moment with her at school. The weirdest blend of torture and bliss.

On one hand, they were getting closer and bonding but on the other hand, he felt too chicken to tell her how he felt leaving him to suffer in silence.

As he walked down the streets of his neighborhood he continued to stare down at his feet in deep thought. Maybe I can fake sick. Yeah, that'll work.

He thought feeling relieved until he realized that it wouldn't stop Tia from having a date with Shawn.

Feeling helpless he made his way to the one place that could lift his love-sick spirit. Clyde's Record Store.

Ms. Alice glanced up at the sound of the door chimes as he entered. " Well if it isn't my favorite apple head."

Michael immediately smiled against his will. " Good afternoon Ms. Al."

" What's with the dull tone? The smile is on your face but not in your voice." she stopped organizing the records and placed her hands on her hips, watching as he took a seat on the cushioned window seat.

It was his favorite place to sit but usually it was taken. He'd always say that it was empty on his good days-however he didn't feel that good today.

He laid back and stretched one of his legs out along the seat. " It's just a lot going on in my life right now." he folded his arms behind his head.

She hummed in understanding. " I heard that you were one of the colored students accepted to that school... how's that been?"

" Well actually pretty easy considering the fact that every student and staff member refuses to show up. It's only been me, the principal, and – the other student." Michael sighed. He came here to give his mind a break from her but still, she found her way back into his thoughts.

Ms. Alice hummed again yet this one was far more dragged out than the last. " So this other student, it's a girl right?"

Michael nodded, looking over to Ms. Alice after a while of silence to see her grinning face.

" Awe I see what's going on. That pout ain't about no ol Rosewood High – I know that puppy dog look from anywhere and it only comes from puppy love. " she sang and began to organize the records again.

Michael shook his head. Not understanding how Ms. Alice could get the truth out of him doing nothing but laying back, lost in his thoughts.

" So this young lady, is she the other student?"

" Ms. Al ... I'm just becoming a little sick that's all."

" Mm you don't gotta lie to me Michael. I'm looking right at you and see that the only thing you came down with is the sickness of love."

Michael sat up and turned his body to face her, resting his elbows on his legs as he caved in. " She's beautiful. Words can't even explain."