The Popular Boys And Me | ✔

Chapter Eight

Ashanti POV

"Ashanti, it's time for school!" Harden's knock coincided with my hand reaching for the doorknob.

As I opened it, his light blue gleamed at me, but I slipped past him, awkwardly closing the door behind me without a word.

Heading downstairs, I found Javier and Mike lounging on the sofa in the living room.

"Where's my uncle?" I questioned, scanning the room as I strolled around, trying to gauge their expressions.

"He's already at work. Why, what's up?" Mike replied, his concern evident as he held a teacup in one hand and a magazine in the other. Leaning against the wall, I glanced at the television.

"Does he always leave this early in the morning?" I exhaled deeply, feeling a bit unsettled. Mike nodded, watching me closely as he took a sip from his cup.

Just then, Tristan wandered into the room, briefly surveying his surroundings with a phone in hand before slipping out as Harden descended the stairs.

"Aren't we running late for school?" Harden questioned, glancing at us.

I rolled my eyes and headed towards the front door, which was just opening. Henry stepped in, spotting me and immediately crossing his fingers in a playful gesture.

I chuckled at his reaction as I made my way outside and mounted my bike. Sliding on my helmet, I revved up Temptation and rode off towards school.

Upon arriving, I parked my bike in my designated spot and walked up to the school building, weaving through students as I headed to my locker.

Dressed in black ripped jeans, a white sleeveless crop top and a black-and-red plaid shirt tied around my waist, I felt ready for the day.

I grabbed the books I needed from my locker and was about to close it when I spotted one of the last people I wanted to see. He gave me a wave, which I chose to ignore as I walked past him.

"Hey, wait up!" Ian called out, trailing behind me.

"I want to talk to you." Ian announced, positioning himself directly in front of me to block my path.

I fixed him with a silent stare, knowing I had no pleasant words to offer.

"Why the silent treatment?" He inquired with a chuckle and I glanced away, attempting to manoeuvre around him, but he blocked my path again.

"I don't see why you're so keen to get my attention." I remarked, sighing as I finally met his gaze. "I'm not interested in what you have to offer."

"We'll see about that." He declared, playfully wiggling his fingers at me. I scoffed and turned to walk away, then he added, "I just need to find another way to get your attention."

His words made me pause. I glanced back at him. "Just stop trailing me, lover boy." I warned, shaping my fingers like a gun and miming a shot.

He stood there, chuckling as I turned on my heels and walked away.

>>>>>>>>

"I'm here." I announced as I stepped into Mr. Smith's gym, scanning the room where a group of men were spread out, working hard at their designated spots.

As I made my way further in, I spotted Mr. Smith in a fitness suit, standing by the boxing ring where two guys were sparring.

The place had a mix of burly men, most of them shirtless and wearing boxing trunks, their focus entirely on their training.

"Mr. Smith, can we make this quick?" I called out, catching not only his attention, but everyone else's as well.

"I have homework." I added with a smirk, gathering my hair into a messy bun. And for precautions of my identity, I wore a pink mask; courtesy of Melody, of course.