Ally's POV
The crowd cheers loudly as we get to the last five minutes of our game. I look over to Cassidy and Kira who smile in anxiousness because we are this close to winning the game. I look over at Cheryl who I've been staying away from the past two weeks due to her request. Chris was right. She does seem a little more at ease and peace with how things went down between her and Austin.
She doesn't have those same stress lines on her forehead than when she first broke up with him and she doesn't frown nearly as much. I actually haven't seen her frown in at least a week. It looks as if she's been spending a lot of time with her girl friends and just enjoying life herself. I guess what they say is true. Time does heal and I'm really happy for her. Not because I can have a chance with Austin but because she really doesn't deserve to be heartbroken because she's a good person who did a really selfless thing.
"Get in line girls!" Cassidy yelled as we got in formation as we started to do our cheer hyping the crowd up. I smile before doing two cartwheels and a back flip as Dez cheers along with Carrie in the stands to support. "Louder!" Cassidy yelled again as we did the cheer again but even more hyped up as we watched Austin run once the ball was passed to him.
All the cheerleaders stop as we watch him go along with the stands. We cheer when we see him flip, pass and dodge any guy in sight running a 60 yard dash line. Oh my god, this looks amazing. I've seen football on TV but in person is so much better! We all get scared when one husky guy is waiting for him at the end but Austin flips over him touching the ball in the touchdown zone.
"Yes!" I scream as everyone on our side erupts into cheers. He did it. He really did it! "Oh my god, Cassidy. Austin just won us our freaking first game!" I said happily as she smiled cheering along with the rest of the team. "It's great but not a shocker. Austin's always been such a good player." Kira told me as I smiled walking over to where the stands were to get a closer look at the victory.
Suddenly, I see Austin running to me with his helmet off and a huge smile. Before I know it, he picks me up spinning me around laughing as I smile anyway even though I'm confused. He puts me down and looks at me blushing. "Sorry. I'm just really happy. It's the fourth year in a row, I've won us our first game." He confessed as I smiled proud of him. "You seriously did so amazing out there. I see why you love it so much. You keep playing like that, you'll be in the NFL sooner than you think." I complimented as he smiled grateful. "Thanks Amy. You always believe in me." He stated as I smile widely. "And I'm never gonna stop." I tell him meaning it.
"Hello, I would like to get everyone's attention." We hear as everyone faces the bleachers where Dallas is standing with a microphone. "What is he doing?" I asked confused. "Just watch." Austin tells me with a smirk as I look back at him. "I would like to take this time to ask my very beautiful girlfriend to the dance tomorrow night." He said as the crowd awed along with me, Trish and Kira.
Cassidy looked at him in awe as the nerdy water boy gives Dallas flowers and chocolates while he faces her. "You are the only one I could ever want there with me, so what do you say baby? Will you go with me?" He asked as everyone looked at her as she walked up to where he was. "I would love too." She finally said as we all cheered watching happily. She definitely got the grand gesture she always wanted even if it was just a school dance.
*Time Skip*
The parking lot clears out as Cassidy and I get in Trish's car when she offers to drive us home. "So, that was an awesome game." Trish said with a smile as Cassidy and I agreed. I was in the back so I laid my legs across the seat taking out my phone to check my real social media. "I can't believe Austin did that for a fourth time in a row. That kid is definitely making it to the pros." Cassidy said as I smiled remembering what I told him.
"Speaking of...what was that hug about Russo?" Trish asked wiggling her eyes in the driver's mirror. "Yeah, he seemed pretty eager to have you in his arms." Cassidy added as they smirked to each other. "Stop it! He was just feeling overwhelmed and wanted to spread around the happiness and love he felt from the game." I said denying it even though I was happy he did it. "Yeah, I'm sure he was." Trish said sarcastically as I playfully rolled my eyes.
"But seriously. What's going on with you two? When are you gonna just go out with each other? It feels like 10 years because of the romantic tension." Cassidy said as I sighed seeing where she was coming from. "I know, but I'm being considerate of Cheryl remember? Plus, I don't know for sure if he likes me."
"He likes you!" They both say simultaneously making me laugh.
"Okay, maybe he does. It doesn't get rid of the Cheryl problem."
"Screw her!" Cassidy said angrily.
"Cass!" Trish and I both said.
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean it but she's ruining true love here!" She said stomping and pouting like a child making us laugh.
We arrive at the house after about 5 minutes of driving. "Well, tonight was fun and the dance tomorrow is going to be even better." Trish said as we nodded getting out. "Jace is still coming from Oklahoma right?" Cassidy asked as Trish smiled widely. I've never seen her so excited. I'm so happy for her. "I can't wait to meet him." I said as we closed the doors. "You'll love him. He's great. Hopefully Austin will ask you to the dance tomorrow." She said sympathetic as I shook my head.
"I doubt it. Even if he doesn't, it's fine. I'm still going to go and have a great time. I'm not gonna depend on a guy to have a good time." I told her as they both smiled proud. "God, I taught her well." Cassidy said putting her arm around my shoulder making me laugh. "We'll see you tomorrow and hopefully the day doesn't drag on so we can get our dancing dresses on." Cassidy said doing dancing motions causing Trish to shake her head at her. "Bye Trish." I said waving bye. "Bye girls." She replied as I watched her drive off as we went inside and headed upstairs.
Cassidy hops straight into bed, while I secretly take out my contacts like I do every night because it's not good to sleep in them. Don't worry, I always have an alarm to wake me up about 10 minutes earlier to clean them and put them back in. She never hears it because she's such a deep sleeper thank god. Tonight was so fun.
*Morning*
Austin's POV
Today is the day. The dance. Which I'm going to with no one. "So, have you asked Amy to the dance yet?" Dallas wondered coming up to me with Dez as I fury my eyebrows. "I don't remember that ever being a thing." I said as they both rolled their eyes. "Come on, dude! We are all tired of waiting for this to happen. Just get it over with already." He replied as I shook my head. "This isn't something I just wanna get over with." I said as Dez came up to me. "Look, you saw how long it took me to get with Carrie because of how hesitant I was because all I did was doubt. Don't be me." He advised. "But you got the girl!" I said not getting his logic. "Yeah, but I could have had her a lot sooner." He said as I groaned leaning against my locker.
As I do, we all turn our heads noticing Amy coming down the hallway laughing along with Cassidy and Kira. "There she is, dude. It's now or never." Dallas said turning back around to face me. "You shouldn't be nervous. I guarantee you she'll say yes. You know she likes you." He added as I looked at him confused and upset. "Man, you know she's dating Chris! I can't just mooch on some other dude's girl." I told him as he chuckled a little. "No, she's not." He stated casually as me and Dez look a little stunned.
"What do you mean, no she's not?" Dez spoke.
"I mean exactly what I said. You know Chris is my friend. I talked to him today in class about his date and he admitted that him and Amy decided to be friends." He said with a shrug as our eyes widen.
"Why didn't you start with that?!" I said hitting his chest as Dez just shook his head.
"1. Ow. 2. I didn't think it would make a difference since you keep wimping out every time you get the chance to do something about you two." He said as I scoffed stepping back.
"Well, you're wrong because I'm gonna do something about it right now." I said walking away as Dallas smirks impressed as Dez watches with a smile in anticipation.
I walk over with confidence but I can't lie about feeling nervous from how beautiful she looks today, just like everyday. Cassidy and Kira notice I'm coming over first and smile kind of signaling her as she turns around. We see each other and smiles instantly come to our faces. "Hey, Austin. How are you today?" She asked leaning against her locker and crossing one leg in front of the other.
I nervously rub the back of my neck. "I'm great. Thanks for asking. You?" I said as I feel myself stalling as she giggles shyly. "I'm real cool. It's nice whether out today." She said randomly as I chuckle at the awkwardness.
"So...I wanted to ask you something."
"Yes?" She asked eagerly leaning in to me as the girls smile widely in the back which added more pressure than before making me 10 times nervous than before.
"Um...I was wondering if you needed help in History class? I heard you didn't like your last score on your test and I could tutor you if you'd like." I say quickly as her smile goes away and the friends look confused.
"Oh...no, I don't need help Austin. I'm...just fine." She said upset kind of slamming her locker and walking away.
Cassidy and Kira shake their head disappointed in me before following Amy while I groan internally. I feel footsteps come up behind me and Dallas puts his arms around me as Dez sighs eating his doughnut. "Like I said..." Dallas trailed off as I glared at him harshly.
Ally's POV
I walk until I am pulled aside by both Cassidy and Kira who have sympathetic faces on while I sigh. "Amy, we are so sorry. We really thought he was gonna ask you." Cassidy said as I shook my head sadly. "Why are you apologizing? It's not your fault our relationship is non existent and so complicated." I said as Kira holds one of my hands. "I just feel bad. It's so obvious he's into you. He's probably just nervous." She trailed off not knowing what else to say. "Or maybe I've been reading it all wrong." I finally said as they try to speak up. "No, it's okay girls. I'm gonna head to class. Bye." I told them nicely walking away as they continue to feel bad for me.
I go from class to class avoiding my friends who felt sympathy for me after that embarrassing moment. I'm in history class right now feeling awkward because Mrs. Grey has been avoiding eye contact with me and is no longer being friendly with me at all which I deserve.
The bell rings and the class all gets up. "Alright, I'll see you kids Monday since I won't be at the dance tonight." She told us as they all said bye to her as I watched Trish and Cassidy leave and I stayed back.
I shyly walk up to her desk while she looks over some papers. "Um...Mrs. Grey?" I say as she looks up to me awkwardly coughing a little putting her glasses down on the table. "Yes Miss Russo?" She said which made me cringe because she always just called me by my first fake name. "I wanna apologize for my outburst yesterday." I said as she just continued to look at me and I take that as a cue to continue.
"I don't expect you to understand but it's just...where I'm from, I was taught that I was perfect and everything I did was perfection so when I saw a score less than perfect, I feared-"
"You weren't perfect?" She finished.
"Exactly!" I said before sighing. "But I have great friends who was there for me to help me realize that no I'm better than anybody else because we're all human and make mistakes." I explain as she smiles a little.
"Mrs. Grey, words can't express how sorry I am. I apologize dearly." I told her honestly as she sighs calmly standing up. "Amy, thank you for sharing that with me. It makes me understand you better as my student. I'm sorry that you were raised in an environment that gave you way too many expectations at a young age." She said as I nodded listening.
"Word of advice. What makes everyone perfect is being exactly themselves by making mistakes, having fun and living life. Humane is perfection." She ended as I took that in and smiled.
"Thank you so much." I replied sincerely as she smiled as well.
"No problem. Now get to class!" She said with a chuckle as I smiled waving goodbye leaving the class. Wow. So that's what it feels like to apologize? It felt amazing when she forgave me. Mrs. Grey is an amazing woman and I'm so happy that she was so nice and forgiving towards me.
I walk down the hallway and when I'm about turn the corner, I stop and hide when I hear a group of girls saying my name. "Yeah, they totally are." One blonde says. "Are you sure?" A brunette asks. "Duh! Did you see the way he ran to her and picked her up at the game yesterday? They're so dating." She replied as another brunette groans. "That sucks considering I was gonna ask if he wanted to go to the dance with me." She said rolling her eyes annoyed. "I was going too though!" The blonde one said upset.
"Well, it's Austin after all. None of his relationships ever last, why would this be any different?" The first brunette said as I looked down. "I'll make a move after he dumps her." The blonde replies. "So will I and we'll see which one he chooses." The second brunette adds in. "If he doesn't have long relationships, why would you two date him?" The first brunette asked confused. "He'll change for me!" They both yell at her as I roll my eyes walking away.
God, that was so irritating. I felt just like I use to in my famous life with people worrying about who I'm dating and gossiping about relationships that were not even real but just assumed to be. I mean yeah in this case, I want it to be real but it's not and that's the point I'm making. I want privacy in relationships that are important to me until I care to share them with the world. It wasn't hard to come out with my relationship with Christopher because it technically wasn't real and I didn't take it serious.
*Time Skip*
"Okay, you look gorgeous Trish!" I said with a huge smile as she walked in Cassidy's and I bedroom. "Thank you! Sorry I'm late. I was arguing with my mom about the color of heels I should wear." She said as I chuckled.
"What?"
"We are both fashion diva's and we were disagreeing which heels would look better with my dress." She explained.
"Well, I love those so I say you made a great choice."
"Thanks. Now enough about me, look at you!" She said coming over to me as I smile.
"Ha, ha. It's really nothing." I said looking down at my skin tight light blue outfit.
"Are you kidding? This is definitely your color! I bet no other girl is wearing a crop top and an adorable fluffy skirt like you. Plus those amazing white platform heels that only you could walk in." She said making me chuckle.
"Thanks. I like to be unique."
"Well, you are. You most definitely will stand out." She said making me smile and look in the mirror at my now curly blonde hair. I thought it would be nice to change it up for tonight.
"Where's Cass?" She asked looking around as I pointed to the bathroom.
"She's been in there for an hour deciding on what she should wear. She has showed me 12 dresses and they were all beautiful but according to her, not good enough." I said sitting back on the bed. "That's Cass for you." Trish said with a chuckle before sitting next to me. "So, I heard about earlier. You know, you thinking Austin was gonna ask you to the dance but he didn't." She told me as I nodded as my mood elevated back down. "Yeah...it's stupid." I said shaking my head and looking down. "It's not stupid. Forget about guys tonight just like you said because you are gonna have fun with your friends tonight!" She said excited pulling me up from the bed as I laugh with raised eyebrows.
"That's ironic considering my two best friends are gonna be there with their boyfriends." I said talking about Cassidy with Dallas and Jace meeting her there at the dance. "Yeah, but we're not gonna be with them the whole night. Plus, Kira is gonna be there and she doesn't have a boyfriend. You guys have gotten really close." She said rubbing my arm. "True. We have. I guess tonight won't be that bad. It'll be fun." I said feeling my spirit going back up. "There ya go." She said as I smiled when Cassidy came out.
Trish and I look at her and drop our jaws in awe. She's wearing a nice fitting pink dress that has her back cut out with a straightened high ponytail and multicolored heels. "Cassidy, jeez. You look like a freaking supermodel." Trish said going over to her as I followed. "I second that." I added looking her outfit up and down as she smiled widely. "Thank you but you guys have to joking because look at you!" She said as we swat her hand away jokingly. "Well, are you guys ready?" I said as they nodded and we walked out the bedroom door.
We all head downstairs and out the house. "Remind me again, why Dallas is not picking you up?" I asked facing Cassidy. "I told him to just meet me there so I could get ready with you." She told me. "Basically so you could tend to your lonely friend's needs?" I said folding my arms. "You know me so well." She said pinching my cheeks before we got in the car and I chuckled.
"It's cool. He's riding with Austin, Dez and Carrie there. He'll live until he sees me." She said taking off. "Yeah, he'll die when he sees you." I corrected as she laughed. "You girls are crazy." She said as Trish and I smiled enjoying the ride.
Austin's POV
Dallas, Dez, Carrie and I have been at the dance for about 20 minutes now and no sign of the girls. "Where the hell is my girl?" Dallas asked for the third time as I sighed facing him annoyed. "Dude, you know how girls are, especially yours. They like to be fashionably late." I informed him as he scoffed. "You're just mad that you blew your shot at asking Amy to the dance." He said as I was about to speak but Dez came between us. "Whoa. Dallas that was a low blow and Austin stop taking your failure out on everyone." He said as we sighed turning back around as I continue to drink the punch I got.
Dez went over to Carrie. "You wanna dance beautiful?" He asked as Dallas and I smirk at our friend's smoothness that we had never seen before. "Of course, Dez." She smiled taking his hand as they went on to the floor. I am such an idiot. That could have been me and Amy tonight if I didn't stupidly chicken out.
As soon as I start to snap out of reality, I am pulled back in when both gym doors open and Amy, Cassidy and Trish walk in together. Dallas hits my chest accidentally in awe of them and I choke on my punch I was drinking. "Whoa." I said as Dallas walked over to them as I followed quickly. "Ladies, hey. You all look amazing." I said as Dallas goes in front of Cassidy mesmerized.
"Babe, you've done it again." He says looking at her outfit over and over again.
"Thanks." She said as he nods in a trance making all of us chuckle.
"Okay, I'm gonna take this drooling one over there." She said taking his arm and walking away.
Trish looks down at her phone until she screeches forcing us to turn around. "Sorry, Jace is here! I'll be back!" She said excited leaving the gym. "Awe, that's nice. Cass and I have been waiting to meet him for the longest." Amy tells me as I nod with a smile staring at her. "Amy, you really do look beautiful." I say honestly still in awe. She blushes looking down before it goes away. "Thanks. I'm gonna go over there now." She said walking away as I make a confused expression.
Man, I must have really messed up. I mean did she even know that I was gonna ask her or about too? Is that why she's so upset? God, I can't read girls at all. I wish I could have a real drink right now. "Hey you." I hear from behind me as I turn around to see Cheryl as my eyes widen in shock. "Hey...to be honest, I'm surprised you're talking to me." I admit awkwardly.
"Don't you hate me?" I said still feeling bad that I hurt her.
"I never hated you Austin. Just mad. But I'm not anymore." She admitted astonishing me.
"Wow, um...I don't know what to say. Thank you?" I say as she laughs while I sigh.
"No, seriously I really am sorry. What I felt for you was real until...ya know." I trailed off as she nodded. "The last thing I meant to do was break your heart. I want nothing but the best for you." I tell her legitimately as she smiled looking down. "It just isn't you huh?" She said as I didn't know what to say. "It's okay Austin. I know that. I knew it for a long time, that's why it hurt for a long time. But I'm better now and I want you to be happy too." She said as I start to get what she's hinting at.
"Amy is clearly the one you want and I can't stop something that's clearly meant to be. I wouldn't want someone to do that to me. Go be with her. I'm giving you the green light that I'll be fine." She finally said as a sigh of relief comes over me as I smile with happiness. "You're amazing, you know that?" I said as she smiled flipping her hair. "I'm alright." She said as we both chuckle and I hug her as she sighs taking me in.
Ally's POV
I walk over to the snack table and eat some very tasteful crackers. "Good right?" I hear turning around to Kira who looked absolutely beautiful. "Hey!" I cheered happily as we embraced tightly. "Hey beautiful." She complimented as we pulled away. "How ya doing?" She asked getting some popcorn as I shrug. "Better than this morning. I just..." I said not finishing as she looks up to me.
"What is it?" She said gently hitting my arm telling me to spill the beans.
"I just don't understand guys. I came in today and Austin's staring at me like I'm some goddess and tells me how beautiful he thinks I look. If that's what he thinks about me, why didn't he-"
"Ask you to the dance?" She said as I nodded and she sighed.
"I don't know, honey bun. Guys are weird and confusing. That's why I'm single. I'm not ready to deal with the heartbreak yet. My sister went though it and it took her so long to recover." She said as I shook my head.
"Love is stupid." I pouted.
"We can agree on that. At least food won't disappoint me." She said as I laughed at her stuffed mouth.
"You're probably the only person I know to have a mouth full of food and still look hot." I say looking at her amused as she shrugged.
"It's one of my charms." She told me as I chuckled excusing myself.
I walked over to a bench sitting down. I looked around at how nice everyone looked. I spot Dez and Carrie dancing and Carrie is laughing at something Dez said as she leans her head on his shoulder. Dallas and Cassidy are making out by the punch which makes me laugh because he's probably been waiting to do that since she came in. It's so nice how in love they still are after 3 years.
I sigh slumping as I place one hand on my cheek feeling down. "Beautiful girls don't get to be sad." I hear as I sit up and turn my head to see Cheryl with a smile on her face stunning me. "Wow, Cheryl hey." I said making room as she walked over to me as I heard the faint clack of her heels until she sat next to me.
"Hi, Russo. You look gloomy." She said as I shrugged.
"You look the opposite." I said ignoring the comment.
"I am. I feel...good. For the first time in a while." She admitted as I smiled happy for her but still down about myself.
"That's great. You deserve it. I wish I had that 'alone at the dance' attitude, but the night is just not working for me." I say bummed out wishing I wasn't.
"Um, actually I'm not alone here by myself. I'm here with this guy...Greyson." She said a little awkwardly fixing her hair as I stare at her shocked. "Seriously? I...well, I think that's great." I tell her truthfully.
"Really?"
"Yeah. You're happy. That's all that matters."
"Well, it's not anything serious. I just met him a couple days ago and he asked me to go with him but I don't know yet...he's a nice guy, ya know?" She said as I smiled.
"I'm sure he is." I said turning back to the dance floor trying to hide my sighing.
"Amy..." She said as I faced her again without saying anything. "I'm okay with it now." She told me as I raised my eyebrows to makes sure I knew exactly what she was talking about. "I was heartbroken at first but with the help of my friends, each day got a little better and better. It's clear to everyone that you are the girl he wants and I won't be the bitch who's too petty to let love happen. I support it. I promise." She told me as I take in what she's saying.
"Does Austin know?" I asked curious as she nodded.
"I told him first. Too bad he has no clue you like him." She said shaking her head laughing.
"So, this is serious?" I ask one more time as my insides fill with glee.
"This is the real deal. I'm no longer in the way." She told me as I pause before smiling widely. "Thank you so much, Cheryl." I said hugging her while we were sitting down. "It's no problem, but I have to go." She said confusing me. "Why?" I question. "Because your prince it on his way." She said nodding in one direction while I turn around to see Austin coming my way through a crowd.
I turn back around to see Cheryl gone and I smile at her sneakiness. I fold my arms and look around as if I'm not paying no mind to Austin until he comes my way. "Oh hey, Austin. Didn't see you there." I said as he chuckled. "Well, how could you? You've been on the bench all night." He said as I gasp folding my arms. "Do I detect a little judgement in that tone?" I said as he put his hands up. "My bad." He said before situating himself better and fixing his hair a bit.
"I actually came over to see...if you wanted to dance?" He finally asked but I didn't wanna give in right away.
"No thanks." I say casually looking around.
"Why not?" He says as I smirk facing him.
"Because I'm not in a dancing mood." I said leaning back and staring at him which made him lick his lips because of my outfit.
"Why?"
"Because I've been dancing my whole life. I need a break from it." I said smartly but jokingly as he smiled with raised eyebrows.
"Wow. You've done a lot of things in your life for an 18 year old."
"You have no idea."
"You may have been rich but your life sounds stressful." He says sympathetic.
"It was."
"You were a dancer?" He asked curious.
"Somewhat. That, among other things."
"Well..." He trailed off leaning down to my face level as I glance at his lips before looking him in the eyes.
"I love your mysteriousness Amy, I really do. But you're gonna have to dance with me now or I might die." He said as I tilt my head with a laugh.
"Oh yeah?"
"Oh yeah." He repeated as a slow song came on right in time.
Austin looks at me with a small smile before holding his hand out. "I bet the dancing you did, didn't include slow dancing." He said which was actually very true. I smile taking his hand standing up as we walk to the dance floor. I put my arms around his neck and he puts his hands on my waist as we rock back and forth to the slow melody.
I look at something that catches my eye and it's Cassidy giving me a thumbs up while dancing with Dallas which makes me giggle. "What is it?" Austin asks with a smile as I shake my head. "Nothing. Nothing." I say before looking into his beautiful eyes. "So, I heard from Dallas that you were no longer going out with Chris anymore." He said as I nodded confirming it. "Yeah, I'm not. Why?" I ask as he slowly spins me before I came back in his arms. "I know it's none of my business. I guess, I'm just curious on why you two ended it. From what I hear, Dallas tells me he's a good guy." He told me as I smiled. "He's an amazing guy." I corrected. "But...we realized that we were just not right for each other." I explained as he nodded understanding.
"So, what made you ask me to dance? Were you just lonely on the floor?" I said with a smirk but actually curious while he laughed. "Um, if I'm being honest, I actually wanted to...ask you to the dance." He admitted as my eyes widen. I knew it! "I was this morning but I chickened out again as usual." He said shaking his head as I smile at his adorableness.
"Why didn't you?" I ask so low that only he could hear as he stared me deep in the eyes. "Because I'm an idiot. But the truth is...I've liked you since the first day I saw you. I guess I was always scared that you might not feel the same." He told me as I smiled stopping our dance. "Austin...I've always felt the same." I tell him as I see him take a breath of relief before a smile goes across his face as we both lean in.
Our lips are millimeters away from each other and right before they touch, we are interrupted by an applause of the crowd. I groan internally and I can tell he does too, when we turn to see them crowding around the stage because of someone. The light is in the way so I can't really see until I walk a few steps closer and my heart sinks to my stomach. "Oh my god..." I say as I look directly at Christopher Wilde, my friend and publicity boyfriend. What the hell is he doing here?! Oh my god, I think I'm gonna have a heart attack.
The girls and even some guys crowd around screaming to the top of their lungs as I see Cassidy, Trish, Kira and Carrie go too. Austin comes to me as he sees me frozen in place. "Big fan huh?" Austin said with a smile rubbing my arm to calm me down. "I...uh..I guess you can say that." I said not being able to take my eyes off of him on stage.
"Hey guys. I just wanna say it's an incredible honor to be Marino's High special guest tonight. It would have never happened if not for the great committee here, so give it up for them!" He said as the audience cheered. "You all look amazing so this next song is out to all the lovely couples tonight including the single people who got someone in their heart tonight. This is called 'Hero'." He said with a smile. He begins to strum his guitar while in a chair and the girls cheered until he started to sing so they could hear his beautiful voice.
I'm no superman
I can't take your hand
And fly you any where you wanna go, yeah
I can't read your mind
Like a billboard sign
And tell you everything you wanna hear
But I'll be your hero
Cause I, I can be everything you need
If you're the one for me, like gravity, I'll be unstoppable
I, yeah I believe in destiny
I may be an ordinary guy
With heart and soul
But if you're the one for me
Then I'll be a hero
Oh, I'll be a hero, yeah
I'll be a hero
So incredible
Some kind of miracle
That when it's meant to be
I'll become a hero, oh
So I'll wait, wait, wait, wait for you
Yeah I'll be a hero
Cause I, I can be everything you need
If you're the one for me, like gravity, I'll be unstoppable
I, yeah I believe in destiny
I may be an ordinary guy
With heart and soul
But if you're the one for me
I'll be a hero
Yeah, yeah I'll be a hero, yeah
I'll be a hero
Hero
He finished the last line as I clapped along with everyone else because he did do amazing. God, I still can't believe he's here. "Thank you. Thank you. I wish I could stay longer because you guys were ama-" He paused as he made eye contact with me making a confused face as I gasp and hide behind Austin. "You guys were amazing, so thank you so much." He said finishing his speech as the crowd cheered and he waved walking off stage.
"Hey, Amy. Are you okay?" Austin asked me worried. "I'm uh fine. I gotta go. Sorry." I say before running out the gym when I see Christopher turning down the hallway as he sees me. "Hey you. Wait." He said as my eyes widen and I run away from him until I hide in a janitor's closet. I think I'm safe until he comes up to it.
"I know you are in there, Blondie." He said as I close my eyes in fear. "Or should I say brunette?" He questioned as I gasp realizing he did recognize me. "I have no idea what you are talking about." I replied in a very high voice so he wouldn't recognize my real one. "Ally, come on...please." He said in a pleading voice as I sigh leaning my back against the wall taking deep breaths before opening the door.
Christopher looks at me as I look down. "Okay...you caught me. It's me." I admit as his eyes widen in shock even if he could tell because I've been gone for basically almost two months. He walks in, turns on the light so we can see each other much clearly and closes the door behind him. "Oh my god, I can't believe it's actually you. God, Ally come here!" He said pulling me in a hug as I hesitate before sighing into him missing the touch of my old friends and family.
We pull away and he sighs. "I have so many questions but I wanna start with one...what are you doing at a high school looking like this?" He said looking me up and down. "It all started after the end of my Spotlight Tour. I was accidentally left behind when I went out to get ice cream and in that moment, I had an epiphany of my whole life. I wasn't happy. Not enough anyway. Nothing was ever my way and I felt like I was living the life of another person. It wasn't fun anymore, just a job. I left and checked into a hotel and took a walk and stumbled across this place and I thought what better way to live a normal lifestyle than joining the most normal thing in the world? School." I said as he listened in amazement. "Obviously, I couldn't join school as Ally Dawson so I bought a disguise to create a whole different person, except my personality was the real me. The me I felt I couldn't be in my glamorous life." I finish explaining as he takes in all the information.
"You know the whole world is looking for you right? Your family and fans are going crazy. There are so many death hoax's articles, because they have no idea where you are." He said which made me feel horrible as he notices. "Ally, I don't mean to make you feel bad because I get it." He told me as I look at him shocked. "You do?" I asked astonished. "Yeah. I went to this city for a week and fell in love with this stubborn, mean but amazing girl Jessica Olsen. She's real and everything I could ever want, but...I had to leave eventually because of our lifestyle even though I still visit her now and then because I can't be away from her. I just hate how all the secrecy makes her feel." He said which made me feel bad for him.
"I know it sounds weird Christopher but I'm happy here. I really am." I tell him as he nods but doesn't say anything.
"You're gonna tell our label aren't you?"
"Of course not. You just said you were happy and I won't be the one to take happiness away from you. "
"Thank you."
"No problem. Just promise me to be safe." He said with his hands on my shoulders.
"I know. Don't worry. I can't be Amy Russo forever. I planned on going back after I graduate here." I tell him as he stands back amused.
"Amy Russo? Nice." He says as I chuckle.
"Thanks." I said not knowing what to say next.
"Hold on." He said taking out his phone. "Put your new number that I'm sure you have in my phone and I'll do the same for you. So, anytime you need me or want to talk to someone from before who understands, I'm right there." He said sweetly as I take it.
"You've always been amazing." I said as he popped his collar.
"That's what the ladies say." He replies as I chuckle giving his phone back.
"Alright, we should probably get out of here. My friends are probably wondering where I'm at from the way I rushed out." I said as we walked out the closet.
"Yeah, you got faster." He said making me laugh as he stopped.
"What's wrong?" I asked confusing facing him. "I probably shouldn't go in there if I don't wanna be swarmed." He said making me remember. "Right. I'm the one with the disguise." I said as he nodded. "I guess I have to go." He told me. "Wait! Do you mind meeting just my friends? They would hate me if they knew I had the chance of 'meeting Christopher Wilde' and didn't say anything." I told him as he nodded. "Sure, I don't mind. They just have to come out here." He said as I nodded motioning that I would be back.
I walked into the gym and was quickly met with Austin, Cassidy, Dallas, Trish, Kira, Dez, Carrie and some cute guy who I'm assuming is Jace. They were all dancing at first except for Austin who looked like he was looking for me until they all saw me.
"Where the hell have you been?" Trish asked confused.
"Yeah, Kira and I checked everywhere including the bathroom." Cassidy said as I tried to hold in a laugh.
"Austin said he thought you left. Are you okay, Amy?" Carrie asked sweetly as I smiled.
"Girls, I am fine." I tell them as they sigh with relief.
"That's good because I wanna show you this hot guy's Instagram." Kira said coming over to me as I chuckle holding her hands.
"Actually, there is someone I want all of you to meet." I said with a smile as they look confused.
"Meet?" Dallas said.
"Meet." I repeat.
"Is it your parents?" Austin guessed.
"No!" I said with a laugh.
"You got a pet?" Dez asked randomly as I groaned amused.
"Will you guys stop guessing and just follow me!" I said as they put their hands up and followed me out.
I walked out first to see Christopher still waiting out there when every single one of them comes out and all of there eyes go wide including the guys from shock. All of sudden, Trish, Cassidy, Kira and Carrie scream excited making Dallas and Austin cover their ears while Dez and Jace smile still amazed. "Oh my god, Christopher! I love you so much! You are so fucking awesome! Excuse my language!" Cass said excited making me and him both laugh. "Thank you. It's always nice to hear." He said sweetly.
Trish rudely but playfully knocked her out the way. "Your music is amazing. I listen to it whenever I'm not working! So...basically all the time." She said as Jace and I chuckle at her eagerness. "Please, she doesn't know all your lyrics like I do. I mean come on. Oh, I'll be a hero, yeah, I'll be a hero." Kira started singing horribly as Carrie came in front of her. "I'm so much more awesome. I could even be your girlfriend!" She offered. "Carrie!" Dez yelled. "Oh right." She said with a guilty smile going over to Dez.
I shake my head amused at all their obsessed attempts while the guys just sit back and take it because they know it's an one in a million time for them. "It's nice to meet you. I think you're super talented." Dez said sticking out his hand to shake as Christopher accepts with a smile. "Thanks man. Means a lot." He said super grateful.
"Why did you come here? I know it had to cost a fortune to get you to perform and our school is not rich." Trish said dumbfounded.
"It was free. I have love for the city of Miami because of my girlfriend being from here." He said as he eyed me a bit as I realize he has to play the part still.
"Oh yeah. How are you holding up? She is my idol." Cassidy said sadly as he nodded making his mood go down to seem realistic.
"Everyone is doing all they can to find her and bring her home to us. It's hard to perform not knowing where she is but knowing the amazing person Ally is, I know she would want me too. I believe she'll come back to us eventually. Wherever she is, she's always safe in my heart." He finishes off as I would applaud him because of how impressed I was but I just nod like everyone else understanding. "That was beautiful. She's lucky to have you as a boyfriend." Kira said mesmerized as he chuckled. "Thanks." He says nicely.
"Okay, am I the only one wondering how you know him in the first place Amy?" Austin asked as the rest realized saying yeah as I looked at Christopher. "Um, I met her a few times at concerts and she stuck out because she was an awesome friend who gave amazing advice so we stayed in contact." He said believably as they nodded. "Oh, that explains why you were so shocked when you saw him." Austin said with a smile as I nodded even though it wasn't close to the truth.
"I'm actually a huge fan too and not afraid to admit it. I just hate how nervous you make my girlfriend." Jace said coming up to him as Christopher chuckled shaking his hand.
I bump Austin and Dallas to greet him as they go over. "Okay, I'm gonna be honest. I always told my girlfriend you were probably just a musical airhead but you seem pretty cool." Dallas admitted making him laugh and shrug.
"It's okay, I get it." He replied honestly.
"Yeah, you don't seem mediocre and fake." Austin said as I shook my head embarrassed but amused.
"Yeah, I'm not. Not every celebrity is. I promise you that." He said as I face Austin.
"That's right. Which includes Ally Dawson." I said folding my arms against my chest.
"You know her too?" He asked stunned.
"We are closer than you think." I said as he nods his head impressed.
"Okay, I believe you." He said with a smile. "Me too." Trish added in as I smiled satisfied.
"Alright, I have to go but before I do, can I talk to you for a second...Amy?" He said being sure not to say my real name as I nod walking away with him.
"What is it?" I say as we go to a corner.
"You told me you were planning on coming back to LA in three months." He repeated what I told him before.
"That's right." I say with a nod.
"Then how are you gonna handle your situation with that Austin guy?" He asked motioning to him.
"What do you mean?"
"Ally, it's clear that you both are into each other. Are you dating?"
"No. Not yet anyway. I think we are on our way too." I admitted with a smile.
"Okay, so you are going to date just for you to leave months later?" He questioned trying to make me realize.
"I know what you are hinting at...I just figured once I told him who I really was, that he'll be okay with a long distance relationship." I said as he raised his eyebrows in surprise not saying anything.
"What? Aren't you doing the same thing with Jessica?" I said feeling a little offended and judged as he sighed.
"But that's different."
"How?"
"Because she always knew who I was." He said as I didn't respond.
"You are a whole different person to these people Ally. I mean what if he falls in love with you? Do you really think he'll accept what you did so easily and drop everything to be in a relationship with you just because you want him too?" He said as I looked down.
"Look, I'm rooting for this to be a win for you, Als. You're my friend and I want you to be happy but in this situation, try not to get too attached because I don't want you to end up heartbroken." He said sweetly.
"I know you don't but you have to take risks in life sometimes and if it ends badly, at least I know it's on me and no one else. I came here to live so I'm gonna do that." I say honestly as he sighs but nods understanding. "Thank you so much for all the kind words and advice. I really missed you." I said as he smiled while we leaned in and hugged. "Love you, Chris." I said pulling away. "Love you too. I gotta go. Be safe like I said." He warned me as I nodded with a smile as he does too kissing my cheek and leaving.
I head back to the group as they look back at me with all smiles. "God, Amy that was amazing!" Kira said still excited. "Yeah, thank you so much for that." Carrie added in. "It's no problem." I said with a shrug. "No, I will never forget that I got to meet one half of Chrally because of you." She said as I chuckled because that was Christopher's and I ship name. I know. It's horrible.
"Well, everyone already met him but this is Jace Amy. My boyfriend." She said as he came up to me with a smile as I returned it. "Nice to meet you, Jace. It's long overdue." I said as he nodded. "I agree. I couldn't wait to see my favorite girl." He said as he looked back at her while I took the opportunity to show her a thumbs up because he was seriously hot. Dallas and Dez laugh shaking their heads as Austin just stares at me with happiness and I think it's because of our almost kiss which makes me extremely happy too.
Suddenly, we all hear loud noise come from outside. It sounded like mini explosions. "What the hell was that?" Trish said facing the outside door. "I have no idea." I said going closer. "Let's check it out." Dallas said as we all head out to be confused not seeing anything until we hear it again when huge fireworks are being shot up in the sky.
We all laugh realizing it was just that and look at how beautiful it is. Dallas wraps his arm around Cassidy as they lean on his car watching. Jace does the same thing with Trish. Carrie giggles at the fireworks because of how beautiful they are and Dez just stares at her in amazement. Kira just smiles while taking videos on snap chat of it.
I turn around to Austin who looks at me. "It's pretty beautiful isn't it?" I said as he smiled looking at them then at me. "Yeah, except they don't touch your beauty." He said lowly though I could hear him clear as day. I smile looking down while blushing and going past him to sit on the car's roof. I turn around to him as he looks at me amused. I tell him to come to me with my finger seductively as he smirks coming up to the car's roof. Our legs hang off as we stare up at them. I sigh happily putting my head on his shoulder as he wrapped his arm around me. It takes a while but he eventually slowly holds my hand making me smile as I accept it and even intertwine them. Tonight turned out better than I expected.
I don't own "Hero" by Sterling Knight.
END OF CHAPTER REVIEW QUESTIONS
1.) Why does Austin always fail asking Amy out?
2.) What did you think when Amy actually apologized to her teacher?
3.) What did you think about Cheryl's talks with Austin and Amy?
4.) How mad are you about that almost kiss?
5.) Thoughts on Christopher Wilde's plot in this chapter and his reaction to Ally's new lifestyle?
6.) Free Comment.