Mod High

A Date to Remember (RobStar Insert)

After detention ended on Wednesday, Richard and Kori said their goodbyes to their friends as they opened the doors to Richard's car. They exchanged a shy smile before Richard turned on the radio. It had almost become a sort of routine for them to ride home together after detention was over. They sat in comfortable silence as 'This Feeling' by The Chainsmokers played on the radio.

"Did you here the news?" Richard asked. "There's a new drive-in that opened today. I was thinking we could check it out?"

Kori's smile made her glow. For a moment, Richard was completely mesmerized by the sincerity of it.

"I would love to!" She paused. "Please, what is a drive-in?"

"It's like a movie theater, but it's outside. People sit in their car or on blankets to watch a movie together."

Kori's eyes shined with amusement. She let out an excited cheer as she thought about the venue. A place like that seemed so...

"Glorious!" she exclaimed.

She almost floated up out of her seat. Had her seatbelt not restricted her movements, she probably would have.

"Great," Richard smirked.

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Once they found a parking spot at the drive-in, Kori immediately became engrossed with the vast amounts of candy and snacks at the concession stand. The two of them returned to the car with a large tub of popcorn, two hot dogs (with extra mustard), two large sodas, and two Hershey's bars.

"The movie should start soon," Richard informed her as they sprawled out their treats between them on the hood of the car. He pointed his index finger to a small opening in the wall of the concession stand.

"That's where they have the projector," he explained. "It will play the movie onto that screen over there."

Kori followed his finger as he directed her to the white movie screen directly across from them. Her mouth opened in awe which quickly morphed into a smile.

"Many thanks," Kori clapped her hands together, "I am most excited to be experiencing this with you."

Richard grinned, although it looked more like a smirk. Something about this girl made him feel so at ease. She was so genuine in her actions. She was selfless and strong in both physicality and mentality. He felt as though he could be himself without any pressures or worries.

"I wouldn't want to come with anyone else," he admitted.

Kori tilted her head slightly, and asked, "What do you mean?"

Richard opened his mouth to respond, but just as he began to speak, the previews ended and the movie began. He simply smiled at her and gestured to the screen.

"I'll explain after," he responded.

Part of him was relieved. He was never one to discuss his feelings with anyone. Kori was an amazing girl, and there was no doubt in his mind he was falling for her. Yet, there was a lingering sense of doubt of his own worth in pursuing her.

She was amazing after all. In only three days she had managed to befriend the only person at Mod High School who supposedly despised everyone. Kori and Rachel were complete opposites, yet Kori's determination and kindness convinced Rachel to open up more. Not only that, her grades were impeccable. Not as good as Rachel's, but she was definitely in the running for salutatorian. She was active in band and the Animal Science Club. Plus, she was also trying out for the cheer team next Wednesday.

Richard admired all of these qualities of dedication, compassion, and intelligence that made Kori who she is. But he couldn't help but feel like he didn't deserve it.

While she was all of these and more, Richard had a one-track mind. He was successfully admitted into the Mod High's most competitive group in the athletic program. As a member of squad Alpha, he had full access to documents only top notch detectives typically do. All of his time and energy was devoted to bringing down one man, code named 'Slade'.

'She deserves better,' Richard thought, bitterly. A girl like Kori deserves someone who will devote time to her like she is their only priority.

"Richard?" Kori whispered. "Is everything alright?"

She gently placed her hand on his shoulder. Despite the darkened sky, he still wore his sunglasses. Kori did her best to peer into his eyes to no avail. Richard offered a forced smile to comfort her.

"Everything's fine, Kori," he replied.

Although she could detect the lie, part of her knew it would be better to wait until he was ready to share his thoughts on his own terms. She wanted him to feel comfortable with her, so instead of prying, she opted to wait.

A sudden breeze brought a distinct chill to the atmosphere. Kori shuddered. This did not go unnoticed by Richard. He quickly wrapped his letterman jacket around her. Kori smiled her thanks.

Impulsively, Richard leaned in and pressed his lips against her cheek. Kori giggled in response.  A broad blush expanded across Richard's nose.

'Why did that feel so natural?' he questioned himself. 'It's like I've done this before...'

He kept the bridge of his nose pressed against her cheek. Kori gently nudged his shoulder until her eyes met his. Her eyes flicked to his mouth, and his to hers. Time stood still as Richard leaned in. Closer and closer until-

The sharp piercing sound of a whistle caused the two to leap apart.

A group of middle schoolers, all of whom had been observing the intimate moment between the two, whistled to alert nearby customers about their uncompromising moment. They sat in utter embarrassment at having been caught.

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"Goodnight, Kori," Richard wrapped his arms around her, "I had a great time tonight."

"Likewise," Kori blushed. "It was a most joyous occasion. Perhaps we could partake in the outdoor films more frequently?"

"I would love that," Richard admitted. "Until next time."

He turned on his heels to retreat to his vehicle down the stars. Kori hovered down the stairs to stop him.

"Richard?"

He paused.

She draped his arms over his shoulders as he turned around. Her lips collided with his cheek, causing a deep red blush to blanket his entire face.

"I cannot wait," she beamed.