It was a staring contest of the century, both unmoving (barely breathing) and not daring to be the first to break away. He was too tired of being pushed around by almost everyone, tired of being taken advantage of and getting nothing in return. While she was completely unaccustomed to people especially those like him daring to refuse anything she asked for. Both realized there would have to be a comprise of some sort.
"Vicky? What are you doing, with him?" Him was hissed out like it was poison as a group of three of her friends, or associated in her social group entered the far corner of the library. As she looked away instantly ending the unofficial game he smiled slightly.
"I told you guys I was assigned to work with him for Mrs. Greenmeyer's class." Again hissed out the him.
"God that sucks! Come on just ditch him he's a geek so he'll get a better grade for the both of you working alone." The two at the table didn't know who should be insulted more.
"No. I will not do the work myself." That wishful arrangement on her part had been what started the competition.
"Please Bill? Ok ok ok not all of it, but you could start and later I'll finish it?" Bill wondered how she was able to fake a smile that looked almost sincere.
"No. We do it all together and at the same time." Vicky sighed as she slouched down in the seat and turned to the three still standing there watching the show of sorts.
"Well I guess I'll see you guys later."
"But Vicky!"
"I know, I know but it's not like I have a choice." With looks on their faces as if they were leaving a loved one about to be put to death they walked off. Bill reached for his notebook and tossed it on the table.
"Alright then I was thinking we should do a report on the Smith And Company clock tower in Anderville. What do you think?"
"I hope you're happy."
"Excuse me?"
"I had plans you know? Did you ever think of that?" He nodded and flipped through the notebook. "And you still made me stay here!?"
"Yep. There is a good chance I can get my mom to drive us to Anderville so we can take pictures of the clock tower, but it would have to be in the morning before she goes to work."
"And I have to come why? It doesn't take two people to snap some stupid pictures."
"Because I'm going to insure that both of us are in every freaking shot. And because I am not doing this project myself." She thought of arguing with him, demanding that he just go himself but knew it be a battle she would lose, again.
"Fine whatever. I suppose I can start doing research on Jesse Smith."
"Josiah."
"What?"
"His name was Josiah Smith. And good idea, I think two pages will be enough."
"Fine whatever." Vicky pulled out her own notebook and Bill smiled again in celebration having won and won big at last.