Demon: Book 1

Chapter 29: Soggy Lunch

"Aden, time to get up!" My mother knocked on the door. "I'd better not have to come up here again, young man."

I didn't move and stared at the wall. If Chris knew, would he tell the school? Then the teachers would hear, and it would find its way back to my parents. My dad would instantly know who the mysterious person was that Chris Harper saw me kissing. Titus would get in trouble with the pack. Xavier would banish my family from the area.

Groaning, I pulled a blanket over my head. I had caused so many potential problems in one day.

"Aden!"

I sighed, and now my mother was mad at me.

"I'm up!" I crawled out of bed. Going to my closet, I grabbed some old jeans and a hoodie. After getting dressed, I hurried downstairs to put on my shoes.

My mom was fuming. "Get in the car." She shoved some toast wrapped in a napkin into my hand. "Now."

Grabbing my backpack, I did as she said and climbed into the passenger seat. I nibbled on my toast as I waited. She marched out soon after, and we were quickly on our way.

"Stay after school today," she said firmly. "We're talking with Mr. Phillips."

"'kay." I finished my breakfast and crunched up the napkin.

We drove in silence for a mile or so.

"What's wrong, Aden? You're not like this."

"Bad day," I muttered.

"Did something happen at school yesterday?"

I shrugged. "No one talks to me anymore after the fight with Chris. It's no big deal; I'll figure it out."

She smiled at me. "If you need to talk."

"I know."

The car stopped outside the school.

I leaned over and kissed her cheek. "Bye, mom."

"Have a good day, Aden."

Opening the door, I stepped out. I waved as she pulled away from the curb. I could already tell today was going to be awful. Flipping up my hood, I marched inside and went straight to my first class.

I'd avoid Chris. I'd make it through the day without seeing him, so he wouldn't be able to confront me. I went to my spot in the back corner and slumped down. I could lie. That was it; I'd deny being there. I was grounded at the moment, so that should work as an excuse.

At least, I hoped.

***

The bell rang, ending my class right before lunch. I slowly packed up my things as everyone else left. I already had a plan. I'd skip lunch and hide behind the school. No one went back there usually, so there wouldn't be any chance of Chris finding me. This could work.

I stepped into the hall and didn't bother stopping at my locker. Instead, I headed straight to the back exit.

"Aden," called a familiar voice.

I slowed down and debated my options. I could make a run for it, looking insanely guilty, or face him and test my acting skills. I glanced over my shoulder to see Chris with his usual group. Run for it won. Andrew appeared in front of me and blocked my way. Chris caught up with Katy and Jack right behind him.

"Hey," said Chris. "I thought you might want to go to lunch with us."

I shook my head. "No, sorry. I'm... well..." I glanced around and saw the math room. "I'm failing math, so I have to meet up with Mr. Phillips."