We Meet Again (JanTom AU)

Chapter 13

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He choked on his own saliva, causing him to break into a coughing fit. He looked over at Jackie who looked like she didn't seem bothered or surprised by the news.

"Thomas, stop joking around," his dad scolded.

Jackie's dad finally spoke after Tom's life n' death experience. He gave him a stern look. "What, You think it's horrible to date my daughter?"

"Yes wait No no not at all," he said trying to save himself, "I think your daughter's very dateable- I mean beautiful, just look at her- in a good way of course"

Stop . Just stop.

Flushed, he took a deep breath before saying anything else he would regret. He looked at his parents, wanting an explanation. "Can I talk to you guys, privately?"

"Sure thing darling," his mom replied. "Help yourself to any refreshments."

The three of them stoodup and walked over to the next vacant room.

"Why am I doing this again?"

His mom spoke first. "The fans will love it sweetie. And once they see the hottest new teen couple, not only will your modeling status rise, but the Lynn-Thomas' fashion line will be a big hit by the time the Crowned Gala comes around next year.

"But I'm not even modeling this year."

"Which reminds me," she pulled out her work tablet and started typing with her wine red acrylics. "Every other week starting next Saturday, you will be required to practice at the studio to make sure you don't lose your stuff for the Gala."

"But mom!-" He couldn't believe what he was hearing. They were going back on the deal they made. It's like it went through one ear and out the other.

"No buts, in person school is not an excuse to slack off. Unless you think school is too much to handle then you can go back to the way things were. Do I make myself clear Thomas?"

He couldn't let that happen, not in a million years. He looked at his dad in despair but it seemed he was on the same page. His parents had won this one...again.

He sighed in defeat, "Yes mother."

His dad put his hand on Tom's shoulder. "Don't worry Tom, we're only doing this for you-"

For me or for you guys?

"-and Jackie seems like a nice lady, I'm sure you two will get along swimmingly."

Hold on...

He had totally overlooked the part about Jackie and him. He was going to be dating the blonde haired beauty in the other room. Him.

He smiled in glee. At least one good thing came out of this predicament. Not the way he would've wanted to establish a relationship with someone but what's done is done. He could actually get the chance to know her.

Wait is she even okay with this?

He thought about it. Yeah their parents decided on it but if she wasn't fine with the idea, then he'd have no choice but to side with her. He wasn't going to force her to do something she didn't want to. He looked up at his parents smiling at him.

They should really learn from me.

"Yeah I guess."

"There, now that that's settled, let's not keep our guests waiting." They walked back to the room in utter silence.

—

It was pitch black. Nothing could be seen or heard except for tiny lost footsteps.

"Hello?"