Double Tap: Decode [BXB]

CHAPTER 24

Teagan

A month had slipped by, marked by the usual rhythm of academic life: lectures, discussions, quizzes, and exams. Our days unfolded in the predictable routine of an extraordinary school. Amidst the academic buzz, rumors and gossip swirled like a tempest, yet I remained steadfast in my resolve to ignore them. They were mere distractions, unworthy of my attention or time.

During our lunch break, as we made our way to the cafeteria, Sasha, Kara, and a throng of judgmental students awaited us. Their prying eyes and whispered conversations seemed to inflate the situation beyond proportion. But I refused to let their scrutiny ruffle me. Zion's choice was his own, and no one had the right to dictate whom he liked or didn't. He was entitled to his own life, and his own decisions, shielded from the interference of others.

As we approached Sasha and Kara, I spotted someone I was eager to confront. Excusing myself and Zion from Sullie and Roger, I marched towards the group of girls engrossed in conversation.

"Trixie!" I called out, prompting her and her friends to turn their heads towards us. Trixie's expression darkened as if she'd prefer not to engage with us. Ignoring her disdain, I flashed a fake smile and inquired, "How are you?"

"I'm fine, Teagan," she replied tersely, her attempt at a smile failing to mask her annoyance.

"I heard you're still up to something. Care to share?" I asked, maintaining my façade of congeniality. I could sense her frustration simmering beneath the surface.

"I'll be posting it tomorrow," she replied, her tone clipped.

"Alright then," I responded, my smile widening. "By the way, I have some juicy gossip for you. I'm sure you'll love it." I teased, relishing the opportunity to turn the tables on her.

"You do? What is it?" Trixie asked, feigning surprise and curiosity. Oh, how I wished I could smack her with a food tray.

"It's a bit complicated to explain in detail, but I can summarize it for you. Though, it might confuse everyone," I said, reveling in the anticipation of her reaction.

"Just spill it," she demanded.

"Teagan Reese and Zion Reed are now officially a couple," I announced, eliciting gasps of shock and surprise from the surrounding crowd. Murmurs and whispers filled the air as the news sank in.

Trixie's eyes widened, her mouth hanging open in disbelief. I smirked triumphantly as she stared at me, her expression a mix of shock and surprise.

"As if we're going to believe you," one of her friends scoffed.

"You have no proof," another chimed in.

"If you want proof, we can kiss right here, and you can snap some photos," I suggested, sending the crowd into a frenzy of excitement. They couldn't believe I dared to suggest such a bold move.

As their eyes bore into us, I glanced at Zion, noting his lack of surprise at my sudden boldness. Closing the distance between us, I approached him until our faces were mere inches apart. With a firm grip on his chin, I drew him closer, tilting my head as if to kiss him. Just as our lips almost met, I halted, a smirk playing on my lips. Stepping back from Zion, I turned my gaze towards Trixie, adopting a stern expression that could unsettle even the most confident.

"I don't know what game you're playing, Trixie, but let me make this clear. No matter what rumors you spread about me, they hold no power over me anymore. So cease wasting your time and, dare I say, STOP. Because if I hear one more word from you about me or Zion, you'll find my handprint on your face," I warned, my voice dripping with determination. With that, I turned my back on her and strode away, ignoring her laughter.