Dear Diary,

It is now Tuesday, and having had a night to rest on my feelings, I have come to the conclusion that it could simply have been my overly hormonal teenage body doing its best to scramble what was once a much clearer mind.

Now, I would love to say today went as any other would have, but that would not be the case. In fact, I had yet another peculiar run-in with Kevin; this one self-initiated.

The talk of the lockers was of Kevin and Nazz's unfortunate break-up, that apparently had occurred over the weekend. It was saddening to hear for several of us from the cul-de-sac, who had been rooting for the couple since they finally got together, but apparently it was not to be.

Nazz seems to be taking it well, or as well as a girl with a broken heart could, I suppose. I've watched the women from the Cheerleading Squad surround her most of the day, where-as young men of much different motives seemed to be waiting on her every step. As much as I am loathe to admit it, Eddy is one of those with less unsavory interests, stalking over Nazz as one would a dragon's abandoned hoard.

On the other hand, Kevin seems to have gotten much less attention that usual. I noticed a few awkward exchanges from his fellow Football teammates, however they seemed rare, and calculated, as though someone may 'disclose their alliances' to Nazz, I'd imagine. It was sad, really. From what I'd heard, Nazz was the one who broke up with Kevin, but refused to give the reason. No one had any idea what had actually happened, and yet, everyone sided with the beautiful blonde. Kevin was left on his own, and I felt this…unfair.

The day had progressed towards a Study Hall I had reserved for eighth period, a refreshing way for me to get a head start on homework, as I digested the day's wondrous new facts. I discovered myself finishing my homework rather quickly, only to find I'd left my novel of choice in my locker. I refuse to "waste" Study Hall as so many do, so I obtained a Hall Pass to go procure it from my locker.

Upon entering the hallway, I noticed the familiar figure of Kevin slumped in front of what I assumed was his locker. His hat hid his face, and his arms were pulled around his knees. Now, he had rarely done much for me, since my friends and I were somewhat "rivals" to him, but I did not feel him deserving of being so miserable. Nazz had been afforded attentions all day, why couldn't anyone bother to ask Kevin what was wrong? I supposed I had a few minutes to spare, as the Study Hall teacher trusted me, and I was using my privileges for a good cause…wasn't I?

As I advanced towards him, his head moved — I assume he had heard my shoes and looked to see who it was — only for him to return to his prior position. I was both relieved he didn't find my presence worth noting, and confused as to where the normal Kevin Barr had gone. I decided that he deserved an ear just as much as the next person, and since no one else would be that ear, I would. I wanted to know where that smile from yesterday had gone, as well…

"Greeting, Kevin!"

(I must note, Dearest Diary, that I have somewhat of a photographic memory, and important conversations like this one stay quite clear in my mind for days afterwards)

"What do you want, Dork?" I couldn't hear him too well; his voice cracked, though, and that worried me. Kevin never showed weakness. At least he was trying, I thought, with that old nickname of his.

"I merely wondered if you would like someone to talk to? I know I am not your first choice," I looked to the ground as my voice lowered, "if a choice at all," and my confidence returned, "but I consider you a friend, Kevin, and I don't like to see my friends upset."

He huffed air out his nose, paused, and moved his head up, staring blankly at the floor in front of him.

"Why do you care, Dork? It has nothing to do with you. Go join Nazz's pity party like everyone else." I noticed his brow crease, and the way he practically spat 'pity party'.

"I have seen the, 'pity party,' as you call it, and fear I do not empathize solely with them." I must have piqued his interest, because he finally looked at me. But stayed silent, so I let my voice tremble out, "No one knows what happened, and I would be quite ignorant if I assumed. You deserve just as much attention as she does, since no one knows the truth."

Kevin made a 'tst' sound with his teeth, before slowly moving his arms to push himself up. He looked my way, those eyes of his taking in every detail of my face before, finally, his ever-present frown lifted, if only slightly. Thoughtfully, you might say.

"Yeah, well…chicks, right? Always gotta be the dude that fucks up," I winced at the language, and I think Kevin noticed, because this tiny smile crept up the corner of his cheek, "Can't ever be an accident…not that anyone gives a ship…"

I never thought Kevin would humor my distaste in swears, but it made me smile. Just a little.

"It is very human to err, Kevin. And, if you are sincerely sorry for it, I believe you deserve to at least be heard out. Though your peers appear uncaring, I-I'm willing to be an ear for you at any time. It is the least I can do."

He smirked with the corner of his mouth and walked up to me, one hand in his pocket. He reached up and messed with my beanie for a second; I was afraid for a moment, until I realized there was no malice in it, as he said, "You know, dork, I'm glad you got that brain of yours. You're the first damn person to give a fuck about me all day…"

I watched him smirk wider and walk off, a hand raised in the air. He said something under his breath, but I could only hear the gravel in his voice. The feeling I got when I caught his clean scent as he walked off was…uplifting.

Feeling accomplished, I approached my locker and quickly obtained my novel, making my way back to class.

Diary, I am not certain why fate has decided Kevin Barr will become a part of my life, but I have no complaints. A new friend is never a thing to mind.

Take care until next time, and keep my secrets safe.

Yours truly,

Double D