The Secrets We Carry

Chapter Six | Didn't Know Desks Had Hands

Liv

School goes by in a slow blur. Every class seemed to drag on longer than normal. Mind has been on Adam almost all afternoon. I had sent him several texts and even left class to call him.

He didn't answer or respond.

I know that he sleeps to heal his body after one of my dads episodes. If I can even call it an episode. More like violent rages.
The feeling in the pit of my stomach won't go away though, regardless of how much I'm trying to convince myself he's fine and just resting.

The bell finally tolls, signaling the end of the day. I get up quickly from my seat and grab my books as I push my way through the students mingling around.
Weaving in and out of the crowded halls until I finally reach my locker.

"Hey"

I almost drop the book I was trying to shove in my bag as the male voice startles me.

"Woah, sorry. Didn't mean to sneak up on you."

"It's fine, you didn't." I try to hide my embarrassment with an obvious lie. "What's up?"

"Just wanted to tell you I had a good time yesterday." The smile on James face brings a blush to my cheeks.

"I did too." I return his smile.

"So what world were you in just now?"

"Huh?"

"Well I clearly pulled you back to the present. Your head was somewhere else."

"Oh, ya. I was just thinking about stuff."

"Wanna share?"

Not really. "Just how Adam is feeling. He stayed home sick today."

"Oh ya I noticed he wasn't in class. We have English lit together."

"Oh, I didn't know that."

I bring my attention back to my locker so I can gather what I need and get home. The knot in my stomach has started making me feel nauseous.
Reaching to the back of the locker I grab the last book I need but my arm stops when James reaches out grabbing me.

"What happened?" He pulls my arm towards him and raises the sleeve. I quickly yank my arm out of his grasp bringing the sleeve back down.

"I banged my arm against a desk." I give him the first excuse that pops into my head.

"I didn't know desks have hands." I look up to meet his eyes. His brow is furrowed and his face is pulled into a scowl. "Who did that?"

Averting my eyes before he can see the truth through them. "I don't know what you're talking about. I banged my arm."
I turn back to my locker and shut it, while throwing my bag over my shoulder.

"Wait." James touches my shoulder and gently turns me back to face him. "You don't have to tell me. But know you don't have to lie to me either." His hand drops to his side. "I'm just here if you ever want someone to confide in."

"Thanks." I go to turn around and once again stop as his hand brushes mine.

"I'd still like to see you tomorrow if you're free." His golden smile returns and I feel my cheeks heat up again.

"I am." I try for a flirty smile back hoping I have it right.

"Perfect! I can pick you up."

"Ok. I have to go but I'll see you tomorrow."

"For sure. Have a good rest of your day."

"You too." With that I quickly turn on my heel and head down the hall before I can get stopped by him or someone else.
One thought on my mind and it's to get home.