𝐀𝐑𝐈𝐀𝐍𝐀 ||The Girl Behind The Act||

Chapter 7

Ariana

Monday morning, I woke up tangled in my dress from last night, still on top of someone's chest. I sat up, surprised but relieved when I saw it was just Cameron, one of the basketball guys.

With a hurried motion, I slipped out of bed, not caring if I woke him. Last night, after bumping into each other at the club the girls dragged me to on a Sunday night, things didn't escalate beyond making out and some light touching. We were both too drunk anyway.

Cameron stretched and mumbled a "Morning babe" from the bed, rubbing his face. I rolled my eyes, groaning as I caught sight of my reflection in the vanity mirror.

Fuck me. I look awful.

My hair was a mess, hickeys littered my neck, and my makeup was smeared. I sighed and ran my fingers through my hair.

"Hey Cameron, you've gotta head out before we both end up late for school," I told him as he slowly sat up, tossing his t-shirt over his shoulder.

"Sure thing. See you at school, baby." He leaned in for a kiss on my cheek, but I dodged it.

He chuckled, leaving my bedroom. They all understood the situation, that I wasn't interested in relationships – just casual hookups.

Realizing it was nearly 8, I rushed to the bathroom, finishing my morning routine, and then rummaged through my closet, still in my towel. Finally settling on a crop tank top and black shorts, I skipped makeup – I knew I looked fine without it. A little concealer covered the hickeys, and I tied my hair into a messy ponytail.

Grabbing my bag, I spent five frustrating minutes hunting for my phone before dashing out of the room.

Downstairs, the housemaids were already at work. I hurried past them, rushing outside to my car. My stomach grumbled, reminding me I'd forgotten breakfast.

Crap!

With ten minutes until first period, I took a deep breath, trying to calm myself.

Geez why am I so worked up about being late?

It's just school, and I practically run the place. I won't get in trouble for being a little late.

That freak-out about being tardy? Another slip-up.

Suddenly realizing I was Ariana Blake, I cared less about the time. So, I stopped at Starbucks even though it was nearly 8 already. I grabbed my favorite iced coffee and headed to school.

Parking at an almost empty lot, I got out and headed to my first class, English Lit.

Walking down the quiet hallways, I texted back Shay and Joanna, who'd messaged me earlier. I opened the classroom door, only to draw surprised looks from everyone, including Mr. Wallas.

I grinned sheepishly at him.

"Miss Blake, care to explain your reason why you're late to my clsss?" he asked sternly. I inwardly rolled my eyes.

How many times had this happened?

"Sorry, Mr. Wallas. I had a quick meeting with the principal about cheerleading," I answered, batting my eyelashes at the old man. He sighed.

"Next time, bring a late slip. And if you're in the principal's office, have him sign it for verification. Find a seat."

I rolled my eyes as he turned away, then took a seat in the second-to-last row.

Looking to my right, I noticed Tristan, who I hadn't realized was in this class.

Geez, I should really pay better attention.