Make me stay [an original story]

[Chapter 2]

Today was the next day after the small lock-up incident with who I thought of as a potential friend.

I sat on the bus, looking down at my hands and twiddling my thumbs. Thoughts kept filling my head just like the bus' noise filled my ears. I kept thinking about different topics to talk about with Simon, because I didn't want him to feel lonely or neglected anymore. Even if he treats people a bit rudely, I'm sure that avoiding all sorts of communication can't be good for his health. So, I can ask him about-

My train of thought was interrupted by the bus stopping in front of the school. I got off, grabbed my backpack and walked into the school, surprisingly eager to go to class.

Since we were allowed to sit anywhere we wished to, I plopped down on the seat next to Simon's desk, taking out my things and tuning in to listen to whatever the teacher was talking about.

...

Class had been going on for 10 minutes now, and there was no trace of Simon's whereabouts. I grew concerned since he was never late to class despite always sleeping or hiding his face. I raised my hand, the teacher as quick to respond as usual.

—Can I go to the bathroom, please? It's... quite urgent.

As soon as I got the teacher's approval, I bolted outside the classroom, all eyes on me. I closed the door and looked around the halls, completely ignoring the restrooms. Eventually I spotted a black-wearing figure sitting next to the lockers. I would recognize that clothing anywhere in the world.

—Simon! What are you doing out here?

—I should ask you the same. What happened to your "if you skip class you're an ass" rule? —He teased, smirking.

—Hey, I never made such a rule! —I countered.

—You haven't, but I can tell you think that way. Why are you out here, anyway?

—I'm "going to the bathroom". —I replied, adding quotation marks with my fingers.

—Uh huh. So should I ask you again, or...?

—I went to look for you.

By his expression, I could tell that he wasn't expecting me to say that.

—I didn't go missing, though. I'm not a little kid, you know. —He retorted and stood up, our height difference proving his point.

—You might not be a little kid, but I still worry about you.

He ruffled my hair with his hand.

—No need to worry, but thanks.

I averted my gaze by looking at the floor, my cheeks now tinted a rosy pink.

—Y-you're welcome... —I mumbled, my voice barely hearable.

—Now, shouldn't you be returning to class? I believe you've been in the bathroom for long enough. Who knows what the others are thinking of you right now...

I slapped my forehead with the palm of my hand, realizing that class completely slipped my mind.

—You're right, but I'm not going to class without you! I didn't take the seat next to you for nothing!

—I'm sorry, wha-

—Enough chit chat! —I interrupted him. —Let's go!

His pupils widened as I took his hand, dragging him towards the classroom. Before opening the door, I let go of his hand to avoid any embarrassing misunderstandings.

—I'm back! —I proudly exclaimed, getting everyone's attention.

—Just go back to your seat already, you big dork. —Commented Simon, standing behind me.