Episode XXI: Snow White Queen
"The dance is tomorrow!" Nicole said cheerfully to Shane as the two walked with Jordan and Kelly towards the school.
Shane smiled. "I know."
"And do you know what we're doing after the dance?" Nicole asked.
"I don't want to hear this!" Jordan called using her mitten-covered hands to cover her ears. "La, la, la, la, la!"
Shane laughed a bit. "Yes Nicky, I do know what we're doing afterwards." Shane then looked at Kelly. "Are you sure you can do it?"
"Pft. You forget who you're talking to Shane." Kelly responded. "I can do anything I say I can."
"Right." Shane said skeptically. Shane then turned towards the sky. "I wish it would just snow already."
"It'll snow when it's ready." Kelly said as the group came to the front steps where Jayden stood. "Hey Jay."
"Hey… Why's Nicky bouncing?" Jayden questioned.
"Because it's almost Christmas!" Nicole said in a sing-song voice. Nicole then frowned a bit. "Aren't you excited Jay? The Winter Dance is tomorrow, Winter Break is coming, and-"
"You get to run off with Shane. How did I forget that one?" Jayden asked with a smile. "But seriously, I am happy. We're going back to California."
Kelly and Shane gaped.
"You're not going to be here Christmas?" Kelly asked.
"Yeah man, it's going to be a little strange without you." Shane responded.
Jayden shrugged. "Hey, not my call. Besides, you can't keep this boy out of the golden sun for so long. He'd start to wither and break and girls would take advantage of him."
"I thought they already did." Shane mumbled to Nicole with a smirk, who giggled quietly.
"I heard that." Jayden said. "Anyway, I'm leaving right after the dance so, if there's some love confession Kelly you should tell me now." Jayden smirked. "That goes double for you Nicky."
"Let's go." Shane said. "And stop flirting with my sister. And girlfriend."
"Sure." Jayden replied with a smile.
Dakota walked towards the area where Laura was normally at with her friends. She came to see Laura pacing alone with a bottle in her hand.
"Laura? Are you okay?" Dakota asked.
"What does it look like Dash?" Laura responded. "I feel terrible!"
"Do you want to talk about it?" Dakota asked.
Laura froze in her step. "I… I thought that he would give up and we'd never have to talk about this again, but he won't quit." Laura glared at Dakota. "Why won't he quit?"
"The power of love?" Dakota said in a question manner. She had no clue on how to handle her friends anymore. "Laura, you said you loved him right? Why not just-"
"It's not me that has anything to prove. It's him." Laura said. "Why is he so stupid?"
"What?" Dakota said.
"I gave him a clue on what I wanted him to do, but he's not getting it." Laura replied.
Dakota shrugged. "I don't know, but he somehow believes that I know what you want him to do." Laura gave a thoughtful hum. "Speaking of which, what do you want him to do?"
"I can't tell you." Laura said quietly.
"What? Why not?" Dakota asked.
"Because if I do, then it won't mean anything." Laura answered before sighing. "Look, he knows me. Sooner or later he'll get what I'm trying to tell him. And until he does," Laura lifted the bottle in front of her. "This is what I'll be doing."
"No you won't." Dakota said grabbing the bottle. "Laura, drinking isn't going to solve your problems."
"Back off Dash." Laura said angrily. "I have some stalker who knows that I slept with Jayden. I have people actually picking on me about my 'heartfelt confession' yesterday. And worst of all, I have a headache. So I'm drinking this damn drink."
Dakota stared into the harsh eyes of Laura before releasing the bottle.
"If you do this," Dakota said. "He's just going to find you drunk and grow angry with you." Laura snorted. "Come on Laura, you're better than this."
"Keep the philosophical stuff for your group therapy." Laura said opening the bottle.
"Fine. Drink yourself into a coma." Dakota said. "But if you want my honest opinion, I don't think that that's going to help. I mean, it put me in rehab." Laura was about to take a gulp before Dakota put a hand on the bottle once more. "My friends and family got me through a lot Laura. My parents, my aunt, Jayden, Kelly, Shane, and you. I'm sure that the same can happen to you."
"Yeah right." Laura said rolling her eyes.
"He worries about you Laura. Please. Give him time to figure it out." Dakota said before walking away.
Laura watched Dakota walk away before staring at the bottle. She grunted before slinging the bottle across the grounds towards the football field.
"Dammit." Laura said before walking away as well.
"That's right, come to the Degrassi Winter Break Dance tomorrow at seven. Tickets are still being sold in all three lunches…"
As Scarlett continued with the morning announcements, Mary-Jane glanced at Amber.
"So are you and James coming to the dance?" Mary-Jane asked.
Amber shrugged. "I don't know. You?"
"One lame dance is enough for one year." Mary-Jane responded. "If you guys don't, you could come with Tyler and me. We're going to have a night out on the town. You can tag along with James."
"Tag along?" Amber repeated.
"You know what I mean. You two can come with." Mary-Jane said. "So what do you say?"
"Hmm… Dance or night out? Let's go with night out." Amber stated, gaining a smile from Mary-Jane. "Besides, we could always do the double hotel room thing."
"Ooh… Frisky aren't we?" Mary-Jane replied. "Well, if it ends out like that then…"
Amber rolled her eyes. "And I'm frisky."
The two girls laughed silently before the teacher began to the lesson.
Jayden and Helen both groaned as they watched Nicole practically bounce in her seat.
"Nicky," Helen said. "For the millionth time…"
"Calm down!" Jayden and Helen said in unison.
Nicole looked at the two before realizing that the only three reasons that they were in sync were: they were friends, exes, and had younger siblings. Thus, this was probably more annoying to them because it reminded them of said younger siblings.
"I can't help it." Nicole said. "I'm going to be able to spend the entire Winter Break with Shane and his family and his dad makes the best omelets ever!"
Jayden shrugged. "I've been telling people that since I got here. What's the big deal now?"
"Oh I get it." Helen said with a smirk. "A little holiday nightcap, eh Nicky?"
Nicole blushed. "Well… No… I mean, if we do then… Shut up Helen!"
Jayden and Helen laughed.
"Helen, Jayden, Nicky," Mrs. Carson stated. "Is there something you want to share to the class?"
"Yes." Helen said. "Nicky here has finally gotten a boyfriend who she is happy with."
"Helen!" Nicole retorted.
"What? It was no big deal when you told her that I was dating Jayden." Helen replied. "So it's only fair. Ha."
"If I can say something Mrs. C," Jayden said. "I was just laughing at those two bickering."
"Helen, Nicky, pay attention." Mrs. Carson said before turning back to he board.
Helen gaped before glaring at Jayden who smiled at her and gave her a wink.
"Loser…" Helen muttered.
After first period, Scarlett was on her way to her father's class when she walked past Mary-Jane.
"Hey," Scarlett said stopping the blonde. "I'm sorry about, you know."
Mary-Jane frowned. "I know what?"
"Tyler? He's been cheating on you." Scarlett said.
"When and where did you hear that?" Mary-Jane asked.
"DeWayne told me last night." Scarlett answered. "You know? The blog. He says Tyler's been cheating on you."
Mary-Jane stared at Scarlett with anger before the anger turned to humor and the blonde began laughing.
"You're so stupid." Mary-Jane laughed. "Tyler would never cheat on me! It's probably that boyfriend of yours cheating on you with Mercedes."
"Yeah right." Scarlett said. "Like I said, I'm sorry about your lost."
Scarlett turned around and walked the other way.
DeWayne cheating on her? That was absurd! She was Scarlett J. Chessex, one of the most beautiful and powerful girls in Degrassi, plus ringleader of the Coyne Cousins. Who in their right mind would be stupid enough to cheat on her?
Jayden was also walking towards his class.
"Hey, McDuelle," Jayden frowned and looked at Nathan. "Look, I have something that you might want."
"And what would that be?" Jayden asked.
"A way to get with either Laura or Scarlett. You do like them both right?" Nathan said.
"And why would I take your help?" Jayden replied. "I mean, correct me if I'm wrong but, we hate one another. You and Scooter will always be against me and Shane."
"You're right, but… Let's just say I'm in the same position you are with another girl, alright? Now do you want my message or not?" Nathan questioned. Jayden nodded. "Laura was saying something about Angelina. Something about how you promised to change about Angelina and Scarlett going somewhere… I don't really know."
Jayden frowned as he began thinking about what Nathan was talking about. His mind drew several blanks before letting it go.
"And as for Scarlett," Nathan continued. "I got a call earlier. DeWayne's been cheating on her." Jayden's left eyebrow rose. "Tell her for all I care. Remember that you didn't hear that from me."
"Right…" Jayden said. "And about Stephanie," Nathan's eyes narrowed. "Good choice. I'd be careful though. With the bachelors in this town…" Jayden smirked. "She might find someone who's just a bit better."
"You-"
"Call us even that I'm going for someone else." Jayden interrupted before walking away.
Nathan had no clue on whether he should be happy that Jayden did not have his sights on Stephanie or pissed that the boy knew about them period.
"Stupid holiday spirit." Nathan muttered as he walked the other way.
Danica walked into her parents' house, not surprised that Manny and Emma had left to do some shopping.
"Daddy," Danica said with a smile. "Your favorite daughter is home."
Maxwell smiled. "And I bet she wants something too." Danica's smile widened. "What is it?"
"Oh nothing." Danica said. "So we're going to Newport for Christmas?"
"Yeah. And I need you to do me a favor." Maxwell said. "Your mom and I wanted to get Jayden a car soon to ease all of our pains." Danica nodded. "When we return, your mom will drive your car back to your place and I want you to drive come with me to pick Jay's car up, alright?"
Danica frowned. "Why me?"
"Because if there's anyone who knows what he wants, it's you. And I need to find him a car that isn't too expensive because he doesn't really deserve it but not too cheap because… Well, it'd hurt my pride." Maxwell answered.
"Fine." Danica said. "Dad, speaking of Jay, has he said anything about Angelina? You know, Izzy's little sister."
Maxwell frowned. "No… Not that I can think of. Why?"
"No reason." Danica said before releasing a sigh.
If Jayden was not completely into Angelina, that meant that there was someone else occupying his attention. And while she hated to admit it, Laura did a pretty good job at it.
On the way to lunch, Scarlett walked down the hall gracefully as many stopped and stared at her. Again, it was nothing new. She was Scarlett Chessex after all.
"Well, don't you just radiate?" Jayden said gaining a small smile. "I have some bad news to tell you."
"What is it?" Scarlett asked.
"Um, I don't know if I should be the one to tell you but," Jayden said. "I got word that DeWayne has been cheating on you with Mercedes."
Scarlett frowned. "What? Have you been talking to Mary-Jane?"
"Huh? No." Jayden said. "Someone else told me this."
"I bet it was Laura." Scarlett stated rashly.
Jayden frowned. "That wouldn't make much sense if Laura was trying to date me yet gives me a way to get back with you. Kind of contradicting and she's actually smarter than that."
"So, not only are you lying to me about DeWayne but you're defending her. Again." Scarlett said. "Just-"
"Listen here," Jayden said angrily. "I don't give a damn about whatever feelings you have against Laura. Quite frankly, I think its your petty problems that you need to solve." Scarlett's eyes widened. "But I care too much about you to let some loser sleep around while you believe he's honest and trustworthy. Believe me. Doubt me. It's up to you. But I told you that no matter what, I'd always be there. And here I am."
"I think you're trying to break us up." Scarlett said.
"Did I have a dream about my ex while lying with her?" Jayden shot back.
Scarlett looked away. "Why are you telling me this?"
"Because it's probably the truth," Jayden answered. "And you deserve better than him."
"Like you?" Scarlett asked quietly as she glanced at her ex.
"…" Jayden stood quietly as well. "Or someone better."
Scarlett watched Jayden turn around before she grabbed his arm and turned him back to face her.
"Angelina. What do you think of her?" Scarlett asked.
"She's a friend. Nothing more and nothing less." Jayden answered. "Why?"
"I just wanted to know." Scarlett said.
"Scarlett," Jayden said. "If, and I do mean if, there comes a time when I truly want to date you again, I will ask. I won't ruin your relationship with DeWayne or anyone else, I'll wait and then ask."
Scarlett nodded. "Right… And Laura? What do you think of her?"
"I…" Jayden paused. Lately, he had been completely lying to Scarlett about his feelings for Laura and was surprised that she had not caught on yet. "I don't know what I think of her. Lust, love, hatred, animosity, calmness… I've felt all that with her in these past few weeks." Scarlett looked away. "Can you really blame me? I mean, you are dating someone else right now."
"But Laura? Come on J.T, even you're not that dumb and desperate." Scarlett replied.
"You sound just like her mom." Jayden said. "So caught up in your own world that you forget that somewhere inside that tough exterior of hers lies someone totally different. And I don't care if you hate me for the rest of my life or eventually forgive me, but I will find that soft side of hers again and I will bring it out."
"Why? Why can't you just let her go?" Scarlett asked.
"Because…" Jayden said before smiling. "Because I made a bet with her and I hate losing. So if you don't mind, I'm going to play this fairly." Jayden began walking backwards away from Scarlett. "By the way, it was someone at Lakehurst who told me about the DeWayne thing. And by the sound of that blog, I doubt it's false."
Scarlett watched Jayden walk towards the cafeteria before leaning against a row of lockers and squatting. Why did this have to happen to her of all people?
Aaron and Chandra were sitting at a table outside talking casually.
"So…" Chandra began.
"So…?" Aaron repeated.
"The dance is coming and I know that you'd probably want to spend your time crying over Jordan, but it's not like I can go with my ex as well." Chandra said. "So I was wondering if you would want to go with me? Call it repaying you for the Black Mist concert thing. Only cheaper."
Aaron grinned. "Sure Bambi, I'll go with you."
"Great. My parents think that I need to do any and everything to keep Steven off of my mind." Chandra said.
"Hey A.J. Hey Chandra." Gabrielle said sitting beside Chandra.
Aaron frowned. "Something wrong Brie?"
"No…" she replied, though Aaron's gaze did not change. "Well… Vanessa told me something earlier today."
"And it was?" Chandra asked.
"She… She has a crush on Ashton." Gabrielle replied. "And I… I want my friend to be happy but…"
"You still like him." Aaron stated. Gabrielle nodded. "Well Brie, what do you want more? Ashton or Vanessa's happiness?"
"I guess… Vanessa's happiness." Gabrielle said causing Aaron and Chandra to share shocked looks. "Ashton warned me about Tevin and I didn't listen. I really don't deserve him."
"Really? I thought it was the other way around." Chandra muttered.
"If that's what you want Brie." Aaron said. "I won't force you to do something you don't want to."
"Thanks." Gabrielle said.
Helen looked at Jacquelyn before Nicole and finally the three looked at Scarlett.
"So… Are you going to tell us soon?" Helen asked.
"No." Scarlett stated angrily.
"Can we help?" Nicole questioned.
"No." Scarlett said a bit louder.
Helen frowned. "What is it Scar? Is it Jayden? DeWayne? What?"
"Leave me alone." Scarlett said standing up and walking away.
At his table, Jayden saw Scarlett rise and stood up as well.
"Dude, do you think that's smart? She looks pissed." Shane said.
"Some things are worth it." Jayden said walking away.
"You ever think he has a death wish?" Kelly asked.
"All the time." Dakota and Shane said in unison.
"Wait," Jayden said stopping Scarlett from escaping into the bathroom. "Let me talk to you."
"Why? You want to tell me how stupid I am for choosing DeWayne in the first place?" Scarlett asked.
"No." Jayden answered. "I want to tell you how strong you are and how little things like this never affects you."
"Tch, yeah right. Look at me Jayden. I'm the laughing stock of the internet now!" Scarlett said. "Everyone knows of the idiot girl who believed that her boyfriend was some saint!"
"You telling me that you care what other people think of you?" Jayden asked. Scarlett stood silently. "Scarlett, if other people's opinion means so much to you, then let me give you mine. You're smart and beautiful, a hard combination to come by. You're a bit stubborn but we'll call it headstrong and determined for the sake of this conversation." Scarlett gave a small smile. "You have the calmest shade of blue for your eye color that reminds me of the ocean back in Cali. The softest skin ever. And truly a goddess among women."
"You're just saying that." Scarlett said.
"So? It worked right?" Jayden asked with a smile that caused Scarlett to giggle a bit. "No, I'm serious. You're a real special person and deserve better than DeWayne and me. But until better comes along, you're stuck with us."
Scarlett smiled sadly. "You mean him because you're not interested in me anymore."
"Scarlett… I will always have feelings for you. Some days stronger than others. But," Jayden said. "I was serious about what I said. You clear out your side of the table and I'll clear out mine. Then maybe we'll give it another shot."
"But until then, we're only friends." Scarlett replied.
"Isn't that the good part?" Jayden asked with a smile.
"So… Do you think I should forgive him?" Scarlett questioned.
"Of course I'm going to say no." Jayden said. "I'm the ex, remember?" Scarlett playfully rolled her eyes. "But, it's really up to you. Do whatever it is you feel."
Scarlett smiled. "Thanks J.T. I really needed that."
"Duh. That's why I said it." Jayden responded with a grin. Scarlett then hugged him. Unable to do much of anything else, he hugged her as well.
"You're the best friend I could ask for." Scarlett said.
Jayden laughed a bit. "Because I'm really your only friend."
"Just my first." Scarlett said.
Jayden smiled before his eyes widened in realization.
"I know what it is…" Jayden whispered silently.
"You know what?" Scarlett asked releasing him.
"Nothing." Jayden said with a grin.
He had finally realized what Laura wanted him to do. And he would do it as soon as school let out.
After lunch, Aaron began making his way to his class before Jordan caught up to him.
"Hey, A.J," Jordan said. "What was that about?"
"That? That what?" Aaron asked.
"You and Chandra spending lunch alone. What was that about?" Jordan questioned.
"Just having lunch with a friend," Aaron said. "And why does it matter to you?"
"It doesn't." Jordan said.
"It does." Aaron said. "Come on Jordan, tell me what's wrong with you?"
Jordan smiled. "Nothing. I just…" Jordan paused. "I was just wondering if you were going to the dance."
Aaron nodded. "Yeah. Bambi just asked me to go with her since she really can't take Steven and-"
"Bambi, Bambi, Bambi. Is that all you're going to say?" Jordan interrupted. "Just say it A.J. You want to be with her. This has nothing to do with Steven."
"I see…" Aaron muttered.
"You see what?" Jordan asked.
"You're jealous." Aaron answered. "I'm not dating Bambi, I've never dated Bambi, and to be honest, I wouldn't cheat on you with Bambi. Why? Because that's just who I am. But she did ask me to go with her and I said yes."
"Fine." Jordan said turning around and walking away.
Aaron only shook his head before going to class. He would have said "good grief" like normal, but he recently made a bet with his older sister. So long as she does not use profanity, he would not say that line.
Sadly, Danica was about to win.
Nicole gave Shane a kiss as they stopped at her class.
"See you later." Nicole said as Shane began walking away.
Nicole waited for Shane to go around a corner before going towards her class.
"Nicky, wait," Nicole frowned and glanced at Damon. "I need to ask you something."
"If this has anything to do with me and Nate, it's over. Completely over and I'm with Shane now." Nicole stated.
"No. It has nothing to do with that. In fact," Damon said. "I'm happy that you're dating Shane because what I'm going to ask you has something to do with Jackie."
"Who is still one of my best friends." Nicole said.
"Her dance recital is tonight, right?" Damon questioned.
"Yeah? Wh- Oh…" Nicole said with a smile. "You do like her."
"What? No. She's just hot." Damon said.
"Uh-huh? You forget that I've been with Nate. I know that look anywhere." Nicole responded. "Well, if you want my honest help, then I'll tell you where it is. But," Damon almost cursed at the statement. "No drugs, no alcohol, and no games. If you want her, then tell her. Don't just act it like Nate did to me."
"Fine. Just give me the information." Damon said.
"One more thing," Nicole replied. "If you do anything wrong with her, I'm not going to be happy and then… Well, you'll be sorry, let's just say that."
Damon counted the number of options Nicole had. Shane, Jayden, Helen, Scarlett, Jacquelyn, and possibly Nathan. Not that many. Then he realized that she did befriend Ethan as well as her numerous cheerleaders. All in all, she had quite a few people on her side while he had no one.
"Fine, I'll be gentle." Damon said. "Er, thanks."
Nicole smiled. "No problem. Now, about the time and place."
Before sixth period, Jayden stopped by locker, still a bit happy about what Laura was trying to tell him or at least what he thought she was trying to tell him. Either way, today had been a good day so far.
Feeling someone's eyes on him, he inhaled deeply. There was no mistaking that perfume. Turning his eyes he saw Laura looking at him, the two standing in a tense, yet awkward silence.
"I just ran into Scarlett," Laura said. Already, Jayden was prepared for the worst. "She says that I should be lucky and watch my back. What the hell is she talking about?"
Jayden shrugged. "I don't know. Don't really care either."
"Oh, my bad. I forgot that you still don't believe me." Laura replied.
"No. I believe you. I'm just caught up in a lot at the moment. Surprising you and getting your forgiveness is right behind me going back home for Christmas." Jayden said.
Laura frowned. "You're going to Cali for Christmas?" Jayden nodded. "Oh… Well, I guess tomorrow is your last day here for the year."
"No. I don't think we're going to spend New Years there. Shane's mom and mine won't separate that long." Jayden said. "But there is a dance tomorrow if you catch my drift."
Laura snorted. "No way in hell would I be caught going to a school dance. Especially with you."
"I'm hurt. You don't love me anymore?" Jayden asked with mock pain.
"Oh shut up." Laura said. "I just wanted to know what your girlfriend's problem was."
"Depends on which one are you talking about." Jayden replied. "Because my younger twin sisters believe that you're my girlfriend and right now I don't know what your problem is. That's why I'm still searching for whatever it is to make you forgive me."
"I hate kids…" Laura mumbled towards the ground before looking back at Jayden. "I'm talking about Scarlett. What's her problem."
"It's really not my place and I'm sure you don't want to know about DeWayne cheating on her. And even if I did tell you her problem, you didn't hear it from me." Jayden said gaining a smile from Laura. "But, like I said, it's not my place to tell you."
"Well… I guess this will be one of the last times we talk before Winter Break, huh?" Laura stated.
"It's not the end of the school year. We'll see each other in January." Jayden said.
Laura thumped him in the forehead. "That's not the point!" Jayden rubbed the point of impact with his palm. "Point is, half of the school year is almost over and a quarter of it was spent playing stupid love games with you."
Jayden smiled. "Let's be honest Laura, you've been playing these games with me from day one. I just never cared to play them back."
"And why's that?" Laura asked.
"Never stoop to an idiot's level. They'll just beat you with experience." Jayden said.
"I'll let that one slide." Laura said. "Um, I have class with Dash and we both know that she can be a real whiny little bitch when either of us steps out of line, so let me go before she has more reasons to 'counsel' me."
"Right." Jayden replied. "By the way Laura, I've figured out what it is you wanted me to do."
Laura smiled. "It's nothing you need to tell me. I already know what it is. And I doubt you do yet." Laura turned around. "See you around Dimples."
Jayden smiled. "See you at home!" Laura gave him a middle finger over her shoulder as she walked off. "I love this game…"
Also on her way to sixth period was Chandra, who was running a bit later than normal.
"So you're after A.J now?" Jordan asked stepping in front of Chandra.
"What the hell are you talking about? Can't you see that I'm late?" Chandra replied.
"Leave A.J alone!" Jordan said angrily. "I know I made a mistake, but I'm trying to fix it and I can't with you lingering around. So go bother someone else."
"Okay, now that I'm officially late, let me run this by you." Chandra said. "You're deranged. A.J is a guy. I'm a girl. There's a dance. Guy's usually go with girl's to dances. What aren't you getting?"
"No. You're missing the 'leave him alone' part." Jordan said.
Chandra glared. "You can't have A.J and Tevin, Jordan. Not only is that selfish, but it'll never happen."
"Why is that?" Jordan asked.
"Because A.J's done too many good things for you to treat him like crap!" Chandra shot back. "I won't let you do it."
Jordan glared at Chandra. "I knew you were-"
"Jordan? Chandra? Shouldn't you be in class?" Toby asked.
"Coming Mr. Isaacs." Jordan said before shooting Chandra another glare.
After the final bell, Jordan caught Aaron before he left the class.
"So, tomorrow before the dance, do you want to hang out at the Dot?" Jordan suggested.
"I heard what you and Bambi were talking about." Aaron said. "And she's right Jordan. You can't have me and Tevin."
"And I want…" Jordan paused and Aaron sighed.
"I know who you want. And it isn't me." Aaron said. "Go. Find him. Be with him. Just know that I won't think any less of you. Well, not more than I do already."
Aaron went to move out again before Jordan grabbed his hand.
"Please? Don't do this." Jordan said.
"See you tomorrow Jordan." Aaron said getting his hand free and leaving the class.
"Pathetic." Chandra said walking out of the class as well, going to catch up with Aaron.
Jordan sighed as she slowly made her way out of the class. While she originally had no regrets about Saturday, she was starting to now. Either that, or she really missed her friend already.
Jacob could count the number of times he and Jayden had 'hung out' together without anyone else on one hand and still have five fingers left to spare. While the two were good friends, Jayden's idea of 'fun' and Jacob's were two totally different things. Jayden liked breaking rules, flirting, and partying while Jacob was more of a stay at home and play video games kind of guy. Then again, it was a jock and nerd he was comparing. That was a given.
"So," Jayden said. "You and Vanessa seem to be alright. Tutoring again tomorrow, right?" Jacob shook his head. "No? Why?"
"I don't know. She said she had something to do." Jacob answered.
"Oh." Jayden said pulling into a parking spot. "Jacob, have I ever showed you that we're friends?"
"Next to sticking up to me to Steven and Marc?" Jacob asked.
"Yeah. Anything else?" Jayden questioned. Jacob shook his head. "Well, let me make it up to you. I've always been with Shane and Kelly or Dash that I sometimes forget that you're there."
"What are you talking about?" Jacob asked.
Jayden sighed. "You're going to be the first person I openly admit this to, so don't go running off telling the world or believing anything other than what I'm about to say." Jacob nodded. This must be serious. "I think I'm in love with Laura. Like, seriously more-than-Scarlett kind of stuff. And I can't be with her until Scarlett and Angelina are away from me."
"Why?" Jacob said.
Jayden shrugged. "I don't know. Her rule. I'm just playing by it." Jayden then looked out of the window. "Scarlett is clearly away from me because of DeWayne, so that only left Angelina." Jayden turned to Jacob. "And that's where you come in."
"M-me?" Jacob stammered. "I can't date her! She's like…"
"Hot? I know." Jayden said. "But she and I… We don't really get along. Well, I mean we do, but she wants someone quiet. Someone smart. And someone who isn't going to get into a lot of trouble every other day. And that someone ain't me." Jacob grinned. "Plus, she's a huge fan of Juvenile Grace. So that'll be the ace in your sleeve."
"But… She likes you." Jacob said. "I mean, I can't do that. You're like, the best at getting girls and keeping them to yourself and I'm-"
"Stop looking at me like some god or something. I bleed just like you, so I'm not." Jayden interrupted. "Do you know what your problem is?"
"Problem?" Jacob repeated.
"No confidence." Jayden said. "Jacob, I'm giving you an opportunity at Angelina De Chaplin, possibly one of the hottest girls in the entire city. The only thing you have to do is get out of the car. That's it."
"What?" Jacob asked.
"I called her before I left the school and she said it was alright. She'd at least talk to you." Jayden stated. "Jacob, I'm almost begging you to do this. Laura won't talk to me until then."
"So this is about-"
"All of us." Jayden interrupted. "Look at it like this, okay? I date Angelina, but I don't really like her, thus she gets hurt in the end. Laura gets frustrated with me because I dated Angelina and in turn I get pissed at you for not dating her in the first place. All four of us torn because you didn't have the balls to get out of the car and talk to her."
"But…" Jacob began. "What about Scarlett and Helen? Don't you like them too?"
"Are you listening to me? They're dating someone. I need someone to occupy Angelina's attention so Laura will date me." Jayden said. "Oh, and in turn, you go from nerd to hero."
Jacob sighed before gripping the door handle.
"What if she laughs at me?" Jacob asked.
"And how many times has Vanessa called you a nerd while you were dating?" Jayden responded blandly.
Damn, Jacob thought, he had a point. Opening the car door Jacob move his legs out of the vehicle, but remained sitting.
"What if this doesn't work and Laura still hates you?" Jacob asked.
"Then I'll be happy knowing that my friend still got a girl he deserved." Jayden said. "And if I can't be happy, then at least you should." Jayden smirked. "Unless you were trying to date Kelly then-"
"I'll go." Jacob said getting out of the car.
Jayden laughed quietly. While Jacob and Kelly did not harbor any emotional feelings for each other, it was still fun to pick on them about their kiss. And if using that to anger Jacob out of the car was going to help, then by all means Jayden was going to do it.
Now, he just had to talk to Laura.
Jacob felt his palms sweaty as he approached Angelina, who was leaning against the wall beside the entry door to her apartment. She gave Jacob a polite smile that made him blush slightly.
"Um…" Jacob began. "H-hi. Jayden p-pulled one over b-both of us, huh?"
Angelina frowned slightly. "He didn't tell you what I said?"
"N-no…" Jacob answered.
"Oh…" Angelina stated.
The two stood in silence before Jacob cleared his throat.
"Um, what did you say?" Jacob asked.
"Oh, uh, I…" Angelina said blushing a bit. "I told him that I thought you were cute."
"Really?" Angelina giggled at the excitement from Jacob before he composed himself. "Uh, I mean, really?" Angelina nodded. "I… I think you're cute too…"
"Do you want to come in?" Angelina asked.
"S-sure." Jacob said.
As Jacob followed Angelina into the apartment had made a mental note to do something for Jayden later on.
Marc was currently walking down the street drinking a nice hot cup of chocolate that he had received from the Dot. He was heading home since James and Amber were together and Steven was currently MIA.
He would have made it home with little interruptions too, if one Deanna Fitzgerald had not stepped in his path.
"Uh, hi." Marc said.
"Hi? You think I want to hold a casual conversation with you?" Deanna replied. "Just who in the hell do you think you are stopping Mercedes and me from fighting another girl? One who already has a boyfriend, I might want to add."
"I think I'm Marc Milligan and I told you and your little friend to leave Helen alone." Marc said.
"Well, you'd live longer if you stay out of my business." Deanna said.
Marc sighed. "Look, little girl-"
"Deanna!" Deanna said angrily.
"Right… Deanna, I don't have anything against you. Well, yes I do. You're annoying." Marc replied. "But I said to leave Helen alone and I meant it. So just stay away from her and we'll have no problems."
"She doesn't even like you." Deanna stated.
Marc shrugged. "Now. But that's not important. Stop jumping people. It's annoying."
Marc began walking off before Deanna stepped in front of him again, this time close enough to put her finger on his chest.
"Listen here," Deanna said. "If I catch you in my house again going against my plans, I will personally take you out myself. Okay?"
"I don't know who pissed in your cereal earlier," Marc said. "But you do realize that if I were the type, I could easily sling your little ass into traffic, right?" Deanna glared harder as Marc grabbed her hand and put it at her side. "Keep that to yourself. I'll see you around little girl."
Marc began walking away causing Deanna to grunt.
"It's Deanna!"
"Whatever." he replied nonchalantly.
Deanna sighed. "Calm down Deanna. He'll get his sooner or later. Remember, Scarlett first, Helen second, Torrie third, and then the grand finale. Marc Milligan."
Jordan sat alone at the Dot, aimlessly stirring a fry in ketchup. As she stared off into space, Tevin sat down at her table with a smile.
"Hey." Tevin said. Jordan nearly jumped out of her seat as she had not even seen him come in, let alone sit at her table. This caused Tevin to smile. "Sorry. Didn't mean to startle you."
"Oh, it's alright. I'm just thinking." Jordan replied.
"Really? I couldn't tell." Tevin stated with a grin. "Are you going to tell me what?"
Jordan sighed. "A loser named Dustin told A.J that I was at your party Saturday and I told him that we kissed and he broke up with me."
"Did you expect him not to after hearing that?" Tevin said. "But, he didn't seem like the kind to just let you go. So what else happened?"
"Get this. This…" Jordan paused. "Slut, pounced on him the first chance she got and now they're going to the dance together!" Tevin frowned. "I think you know her. Chandra Torres."
"Yeah I know her. She was trying to flirt with me the first day we had that little meeting thing." Tevin said. "Wow… He sunk that low?"
"Yes! And now I'm made the bad guy!" Jordan replied.
"Well… What are you going to do about it?" Tevin asked.
"I… I don't know." Jordan said. "I just wish there was someway I could make A.J… I don't know. Jealous like he's doing me."
Tevin smiled. "You could be my girlfriend."
Jordan blinked. "W-what? Are you serious?"
"If it'll help, yeah." Tevin said. "I mean, you don't have to. It's just a suggestion."
"Right…" Jordan said. "But, it was a good suggestion. In fact, the perfect suggestion. I'll do it."
"Well, that's settled then." Tevin replied. "So how about we go somewhere, girlfriend?"
Jordan rose. "Sure, boyfriend."
DeWayne was surprised to see Scarlett at his house, but was happy to see her nonetheless.
"Hey ba-" Scarlett put her hand in front of her, stopping DeWayne from kissing her. "What's wrong?"
"It was you, wasn't it?" Scarlett said. DeWayne frowned. "The blog. The cheater. It's you, isn't it?"
DeWayne sighed. "Yes."
"DeWayne, why couldn't you just tell me this yesterday? No. Scratch that. Why did you let it happen in the first place?" Scarlett asked angrily.
"It was just a simple kiss. That's all." DeWayne said. "Scarlett, I'm sorry. I really am."
"Jayden was right about you." Scarlett said.
DeWayne frowned. "Jayden? You're listening to him now?"
"When did I stop?" Scarlett asked defiantly. "And of course I'd listen to him. He keeps me from doing something that would make Helen proud like blowing your stepdad's mansion up." DeWayne blinked in shock. "I didn't only because I know he has two more houses elsewhere and it wouldn't really be a point in burning them all."
"I understand why you're mad at me, and you have every right to be," DeWayne said. "I just hope that you forgive me sooner or later." Scarlett scoffed. "Scarlett, I'm serious. I want you to forgive me. In fact," DeWayne stood with his hands behind his back. "Slap me."
"Slap you?" Scarlett nearly choked out.
DeWayne nodded. "I deserve it. Go ahead."
Scarlett stared at him in disbelief before backing towards the door.
"I'm going to go home. Slap yourself." Scarlett said.
"Okay." DeWayne stated. "And Scarlett, I'm sorry. Like I said, it was just one kiss and I was going to tell you about it sooner or later."
"Whatever." Scarlett said leaving the house, closing the door behind her. Scarlett began walking towards her cab before she got a text message. "DeWayne…"
She paused when she saw the message. It read: I love you. Scarlett looked at the house once more before getting into her taxi.
"Take me home." Scarlett said to the driver who had picked her up at her house earlier.
Later that night, Jacquelyn had finished her dance recital, gaining a standing ovation. While she was nervous from the start, she was now comfortable as the curtains had dropped. She walked backstage to see Shane and Nicole.
"You were great!" Nicole said excitedly. "One day, you're going to have to teach me some of those moves!"
"Let's just stick with cheerleading." Jacquelyn said before looking at Shane. "You actually came."
"Well, I got off like thirty minutes ago and I decided that it'd be best if I showed up late than not at all." Shane said. "Plus, Nicky called me like forty times, so I just figured I'd give my cell phone a rest."
"Right." Jacquelyn stated.
"Um, we have to go home and pack. Going to my dad's cabin and all." Shane said. "I'll let you two talk for a while. I'll be waiting in the truck Nicky."
Nicole nodded as Shane walked away. Nicole looked at Jacquelyn with a smile.
"Someone is waiting on you." Nicole said still smiling.
"Me? Who?" Jacquelyn asked.
"Scooter." Nicole said pointing.
Jacquelyn glanced at the boy leaning against the wall before turning towards Nicole.
"What is he doing here?" Jacquelyn whispered.
"Give him a chance Jackie." Nicole said. "He may be a jerk at times, but I told him that if he stepped out of line, I'd get him." Jacquelyn looked at Nicole with shock. Since when did Nicole become so dangerous? "Listen, just talk to him for five minutes. He really likes you. He told me so."
"Fine." Jacquelyn said, only because she really did not like the feeling of seeing Nicole a bit too smitten with her ex. "You'd better be right about this Nicky."
Nicole gave her a playful wink. "Don't knock it until you try it."
Jacquelyn gave a small sigh before making her way towards Damon. His eyes immediately landed on her, though they did not roam. They stayed directly on her eyes.
"Um… Thanks for coming." Jacquelyn said awkwardly.
"No problem." Damon said. "You're actually good."
Jacquelyn raised her eyebrows. "Are you admitting that you like ballet?"
"Girls dancing in tights on stage? Kind of hard not to." Damon said. "Besides, um, I like you."
"Yeah. Well, that's good." Jacquelyn said. "I have to get going. Thanks for coming again."
"Hey Jackie," Damon said. "I was hoping that… Well, could you forget about all that stuff I've done in the past?" Jacquelyn looked at the boy as if he had grown two heads. "Come on. Stephanie somehow likes Nathan and Laura's even giving admitted to liking Jayden all of a sudden. You're better than both of them, so I know you can forgive people. Even if it is me."
"…" Jacquelyn was silent for a moment. "Uh, thanks, but… It doesn't really change anything though."
"Right." Damon said. "Well, like I said, you were great. Goodnight Jackie."
With that, Damon walked away leaving Jacquelyn stunned. Did she just hold a decent conversation with Damon McBride? And more importantly, did he admit into liking her? Jacquelyn looked over her shoulder at his retreating figure. He was kind of… No. This was still Damon. Or so that was what she told herself.
Almost sleep, Jayden felt his cell phone vibrate and moved to grab it from beneath his pillow. The cell-phone-under-the-pillow trick was actually something his aunt did and passed it off to Jayden and his cousin Deion.
"Yeah." Jayden said answering.
"Hey…" Jayden frowned a bit. It was Scarlett. "I couldn't sleep."
"So you called me? I think you were looking for the sandman." Jayden replied, gaining a quiet laugh. "What're you doing?"
"DeWayne told me that he loved me and I'm thinking." Scarlett said.
Jayden sat up slowly. "He said that?"
"In a text." Scarlett answered.
"Oh…" Jayden said. "I guess you're thinking about the Mercedes thing then, huh?"
"Yeah…" Scarlett said.
Jayden sighed. "Red, I don't know what to tell you. My mind isn't even fully awake now and even if it was, I'd still be thinking about everything else but that. Mainly because I hate both DeWayne and Mercedes, but a part of me does want you two to break up."
"And the other half?" Scarlett questioned.
"Wants you to be happy no matter with who." Jayden said. "And that's the part I'm going to listen to."
The two sat in silence for a moment before Jayden heard Scarlett sigh silently.
"I talked to Laura today." Scarlett stated. "I basically told her that you were in to her and how you were trying to find some way to impress her. I don't think she listened to me very well because she just had this glare on her face like I shot her dad or something."
"What was the 'watch her back' part about?" Jayden asked.
"Uh, well, I told her that in the end…" Scarlett paused. "I think you know what I'm going to say."
"No. I don't. Enlighten me." Jayden said.
"Jerk… I told her that you and I were probably going to go back out. And if she did anything wrong to you before then, well, I'd take her out. Like I should have a long time ago." Scarlett said.
Jayden laughed silently. "I don't know if I'm talking to Scarlett or Helen now."
"I've just been having a rough day since you told me that thing about DeWayne." Scarlett announced. "And then you told me that you had feelings for Laura and I…"
"You what?" Jayden asked.
"I don't know. It's kind of like you. A part of me wants to just end it with DeWayne and stop anyone else from having you. And then a part of me wants you to be with someone you're happy with. Even if it isn't me." Scarlett answered.
"…" The two sat in silence again until Jayden spoke up. "Thanks. But, how about we change the subject?"
"Yeah." Scarlett said. "Going to the dance tomorrow?"
"By myself, but yeah, I am." Jayden answered.
"Well, you won't be going along anymore. I'll go with you. As friends." Scarlett said.
Jayden grinned. "Sure, but it doesn't make up for when you rejected me earlier this year."
"Whatever J.T." Scarlett said with a small laugh.
