(the three lines of Emily's writing are each meant to be separate entries on different pieces of paper)

(paper 1)I think I officially hate boys. Well, maybe not hate, but I'm pretty pissed off. My journal is gone and this sucks.

(paper 2)Ok, so I lost the last paper. I think last time I had been talking about my feelings toward the male race. Maybe all the problems in the world would be solved if they all had periods.

(paper 3)Darn loose-leaf paper! I surrender. I'm just going to have to go out and buy a new journal after school on Friday,

The morning was completely messed up. Cathy took forever to get ready. Michelle and Mandy decided to do their hair "extra special". So, needless to say, we had to hurry to school. Once we got there, I had to run to government to get there on time. Running in my school shoes was fun, especially when I face-planted right outside the classroom. Luckily, there were no witnesses.

When I came in the room, Mr. Johnson was talking about a project. "As you all know, your senior year here means that it is time for your senior papers." He stated, "The paper embodies the spirit of research and teamwork. It will be due at the end of the year." The class let out a collective groan. Mr. Johnson put up a hand to silence us, "However, this year the essay length has been cut. It is now has to be just five pages. And also, there is only one topic. You must write a paper that in some way, shape, or form, discusses the United States government." He smiled at that then continued, "Since that is the topic, you will have this class to use as work time for the paper. That way I am available to answer any questions you may have."

Just then the bell rang and everyone began gathering up their stuff to head to their next class. "Don't forget," Mr. Johnson spoke over the rustling of papers, "This is a partner paper. No one can work alone." Crap. I had forgotten about that little detail.

I was still worrying about the stupid partner thing during lunch. I couldn't think of a single person I could possibly work with. I mean, even Chanel #5 girl had a regular group of people she chatted with in the hallway. Great. So I would be stuck with whoever was unable to find a partner. I just knew, with my luck, I would be stuck with the meanest, laziest person in the school. Great. Just great.

I was eating my salad, spearing each piece with unnecessary force, when someone sat down at my table. I was sure it would be either another soccer player who wanted to have fun with me or a fangirl with more questions. But, guess what, I was wrong.

"No money this time; I promise." James Watson said. "Great." I replied, stabbing at my lettuce. James watched me with a confused look then continued, "Since you won't let me apologize by supplying money for a new journal, I have, instead, decided to repay you with work." "Excuse me?" It was my turn to look confused. "I will be your partner for the paper." He explained, "If not, I will keep trying to give your money." "That's blackmail." I said. James grinned, "That's effective." Stupid James Watson; even his smile was gorgeous. "So? What will it be?" He inquired. I sat my fork down and looked up at him, "Why in the world are your so determined to repay me for the loss of my journal. You weren't there. You didn't do anything. Why the heck are you going out of your way to apologize for someone else's actions?" James looked away from me and down at the table, "Because they told me about it. They told me what you wrote. They told me that…you wrote about me." I smacked the table and he jumped. "No way." I said, "No freakin way…" It was now obvious and it was so stupid, "You think I have a crush on you?" James just nodded. This was too funny. I laughed and shook my head, "James, I wrote about all the girls in this school that will do anything to get you and how deranged they all are. So, you're off the hook buddy. I am not gonna be your partner for the paper." He was staring wide-eyed. It was like I had just told him the cure for cancer. But, after a few seconds, James shook his head and snapped out of it, "Are you sure. I think we would have made a great team." "Oh, I think I'm pretty positive." I replied.

I got up and got my stuff together, still sort of chuckling. As I was walking away, James said, "Well, I guess I'll see you around then." "Sure. Whatever." I answered. Just then the bell rang and he had to yell, "If you change your mind, just let me know!"

Luckily, for James, the noise of everybody moving around blocked out the sound of my laughter. Stupid James Watson.