Something New

Chapter 8

'Are you sure you want to do this?' Jason asks. That is the first time one of use has said something on the ride here. I look out of the window, at the crowd standing around the fire.

'The party started an hour ago. So, at least 50% of the girls are already tipsy, right?' I ask for confirmation.

He smiles. 'Maybe even 75%?' He tries to make it better. HE wants to open the door. Out of reflex I grab his hand. As fast as I grabbed it, I also let go. Since the dancing, the dinner, and especially the hug, every touch or look has felt awkward.

'I am scared.' I admit.

'I understand. Be brave! I will be with you all night. If you want to go home, we'll go.' He promises.

'You will not leave my side?' I ask for reassurance.

'I will not leave your side.' He says.

'Thank you!'

'Are you ready?'

I nod. He opens his door. But for some reason I can't move. Fear froze me to the seat. I see Jason walk around the car and I hear the door open. I look at him. He offers me his hand. 'Be brave.' He whispers. I swallow, take a deep breath and take his hand. I step out of the car and let go of Jason's hand.

We walk towards the bonfire; I feel my heart race in my chest. Slowly, people are noticing Jason and me. They stop with what they are doing and start to stare at us. I stop walking, but Jason doesn't seem to notice at first. But when he does, he looks back, worried.

I take a few steps. 'They are just staring at your right? Because you are the new kid.' I feel myself.

'Yes, of course they are.' Jason plays along.

From afar I see Holly, Kate and Andrew walk towards me. They used to be some of closest friends, but after the scandal they didn't even do so much as text me.

'Hi, Hope.' Holly greets me.

'How are you doing?' Kate asks.

'Who is this handsome man?' Andrew asks.

This is highly uncomfortable, so I fake a smile. 'Holly, Kate, Andrew. It's good to see you. I am doing better. And this is Jason.' I say in one breath.

'My oh my! Hello Jason! Are you perhaps joining the football squad?' Andrew asks. He is very straight forward.

'Jason is dating Hailey.' I defend my best friend. All three of them are eating Jason with their eyes. And it is making me angry. Seeing them makes me angry.

'Oh yeah, how is she?' Kate asks.

I look all three of them in the eye. 'She is a loyal, supporting, true friend.' I say very clear, word for word. And the look on their faces satisfies me, shame. Maybe now they understand how I have felt the last three months. From the corner of my eye, I can see Jason's smirk.

'Hope, we are sorry!' Holley says.

'Sorry?' I ask mockingly. I look at Holly. 'You are sorry when accidently sent the wrong text, or spill water over my homework. I let you stay in my room for a month when your parents divorced, and you couldn't stand being home.' I look at Kate. 'I helped you get over Harry after he cheated on you, 5 times!' And then it is Andrew's turn. 'I had your back when you came out at school and people were cruel to you! But none of you even send a text after what happened, and you are sorry?' I ramble.

They look at their feet, all three of them, not knowing what to say. 'If you want to be my friend, you can come to me with a real apology. And you better meant it then.' I walk right through them. Although, I didn't like doing what I just did, I am proud that I defended myself.