A Secret Guardian

Eight

Front of the school the next day...

“I heard what you did to her.” a male voice said from behind Tate.

Tate turned around to find Aaron standing right behind him, and he didn't look happy.

“Did what to who Aaron?” Tate said, trying to play it off.

“You're dirt Ritso. Maria told me what went down with you and Gabriella. I can't believe you would hurt her like that, after all the time you had been together. That's low Tate. I suggest you watch your back, I might not do anything but the whole team was around when Maria was telling me about it, and they might not be so forgiving. Especially since they are all fond of her.” Aaron said, then gave Tate a disapproving look and walked away.

Tate stood there for a moment, slightly shocked and slightly mad. He and Aaron had been best friends long before either of them had girlfriends. Were these girls really gonna tear them apart? He wasn't going to let that happen, he would find a way to get everyone off his back and get Gabriella back.

In class...

“Geez, Gabriella has been really out of it today. I wonder what's going on.” Kylie said, looking in Gabriella's direction.

Gabriella sat closest to the window, staring outside at the sunny day.

“Yeah, I see what you mean. Maria, go talk to her.” Emma said, nudging Maria with her elbow.

“Alright, be right back.” Maria said as she pushed herself off the desk she had been sitting on and walked toward Gabriella.

“Hey Abby.” Maria said as she sat on her friend's desk.

“Hey.” Gabriella said, looking away from the window for only a moment.

“What's up with you girl? This is the last day of school before summer vacation. Why aren't you excited?” Maria said, looking at her best friend confused.

Gabriella sighed and looked up at Maria.

“I am excited, believe me. For the most part, I'm just tired. I didn't sleep well last night, I had a lot on my mind.” she said, really looking away from the window.

“Yeah, Tristan told me about your brother.” Maria said.

“Yeah, I probably over reacted last night, but my brother was asleep by the time I got back. I need to talk to him later, try to set things straight.” Gabriella said.

“Yeah, you two just need to talk it out. It's normal for siblings to fight, I know.” Maria said.

“How's your brother Troy been by the way? He hasn't been around much since his wife had a baby.” Gabriella asked.