Always

eighteen

K Y L E R

"When I close my eyes
It's you there in my mind."

I plucked the strings again and groaned in frustration when I messed up one more time.

"Kyler, how about you take a break?" I looked up from my guitar to Mr. Kaminsky who was studying me with a worried gaze. He stood by the piano, his eyebrows draw together as he looked at me.I silently nodded, putting the guitar back in the stand and getting up to collect my stuff.

After grabbing my bag, I walked out of the music room without a single word. I looked around the hallway and noticed how it was almost completely empty, with only a few student walking around.

I sighed and walked towards the cafeteria where the rest of the school would be for lunch. I stopped in front of the doors as my phone buzzed. I pulled it out and my heart started beating faster.

However, I sighed in disappointment when I realised it was a message from Sam.

You got any plans after school, pretty boy? I rolled my eyes before typing a reply.
Yeah I kinda do. I lied, not in the mood to interact with anyone.
Well cancel them. I'm coming to pick you up so we can hang out or some shit.

I put my phone back in my pocket and pushed open the door. I pulled my hood over my head and kept a straight face as I moved to get a water bottle.

I turned around and searched the cafeteria. However, as soon as my gaze fell on a familiar blonde girl, I stopped in my tracks and felt my heart speed up.

She was sitting with Amity and a blond guy, clutching her stomach as she laughed at something. Her soft curls framed her face as she doubled over in laughter. From where I was standing I could see how her eyes were closed, her face crinkling up as she continued to giggle.

I couldn't help but smile slightly at the sight of that bright grin on her face.

I was about to make my way over to them but just when I started walking, someone forcefully bumped into my shoulder. I stumbled back slightly but managed to save myself from falling back.

"What the fuck?" I spat, looking up to see a smirk on Derek's face.

"Oops! Sorry, freak." I gritted my teeth together and wanted nothing more than to just beat the crap out of the bastard.

But before I could do anything, the blond guy who was sitting next to Luna appeared out of nowhere and stepped between us.

"Get lost, Derek." He said, glaring at him.

"What if I don't?" He smirked, taking a step forward.

I did the same, ready to swing my fist at that annoying face of his. However, I froze when a hand fell on my elbow, tugging me back slightly.

I turned my head and my eyes met with a pair of jade coloured ones. My lips parted slightly as I came face to face with Luna.

"Don't." She whispered, shaking her head slightly. She held a calm expression as she looked at me, not breaking eye contact.

I felt my shoulders relax as I stared at her. I nodded slowly and gently released my arm from her grasp. My breath got caught in my throat and I knew I needed to get out of here.