The New Guy

Chapter 5

Chapter 5

Josh

I slid into history just as the tardy bell rang. I'd taken the long route, hoping to put off the awkward confrontation I knew was coming.

I sat right behind her during this period, which, under normal circumstances, meant we could easily pass notes or whisper about the stupid people in our class, the um colorful teacher, our previous classes- anything and everything. I sat down in my desk, looking at the floor to avoid eye contact. Alyssa was facing the front of the classroom, reading the lesson outline on the white board. I stared at her perfectly arranged wavy hair and resist the urge to tap her on the shoulder.

Hey Lyss, I'd say in a perfectly steady and cool voice. What's up? Sorry I was so short with you this morning. I uh forgot to eat breakfast. No that was a lame excuse. My bus was running late and I was almost tardy and it stressed me out. No that was worse.

I've liked you for a year now and I think you're the most wonderful girl I have ever met and sometimes I dream about kissing you or our life together but I'm not a sap I promise I just really like you, I mean I think I actually love you and this is so cliché and stupid but will you go to homecoming with me?

Yeah I'm so smooth. I sighed.

The teacher began his lesson on heroes of the civil war and I tuned out, putting my head down on my desk. I was utterly and completely defeated. All I wanted to do was curl up in a ball and sleep forever. I'd messed up everything with the one person who meant everything to me, and I didn't know if I could fix it.

---

Alyssa

Two could play the "nothing's wrong" game.

When he walked into the class almost and put his head down, I knew he wasn't going to talk about it or give me any explanation. He was trying to avoid the problem. Scared to face the truth, as usual. It was the most infuriating thing about him. I silently pulled out a piece of paper and began to write.

Could Hannah possibly wear a little less clothing? Gosh you would think she would have a shred of modesty...

Hannah Chambers was the mega-slut of our class, and today she was wearing a skimpy, translucent dress that violated the dress code in 50 different ways.

I fake yawned and stretched my arms out about my head, dropping the note on Josh's unsuspecting head. He sat up with a start and sent the note flying to the ground. I giggled and pretended to take notes.

Continuing on like nothing was wrong? Check.

A few moments later the folded piece of paper landed on my desk. Smiling, I unfolded it.

I think it's kinda hot.... If you like the whole stripper look.

I struggled to hold in my laugh, happy things were mended somewhat between us.

After class was over, I gathered my things and stood up to find Josh was waiting for me, smiling slyly in that cute way of his.

"English next, right?" he asked.

"Yep. Right across the hall from you."

Josh, regrettably, was not in our English class. He and Mara had it the same period as most of our friends and I did, but in another class across the hall. It was upsetting, but at least we got to walk together.

As we made our way across the school, he filled me in on his favorite band, Marianas Trench, and their new album.

"They're going on tour in November. We should totally go!"