Bradin was standing at his locker when a piece of paper fell out. It appeared to be the same slip of paper he had given Jessica. Thinking that she had returned it without reading it, or worse yet, that she had read it and had been indifferent to the words, Bradin felt even worse than he had earlier. With an agitated sigh, he unfolded the paper. To his surprise, it wasn't the letter he had given Jess at all. The page was completely blank save for two very welcome words.
'Not Former'
The paper slipped out of his hands when he realized what the words meant and a second later, Jessica's warm body had sprinted to him and she was against him in a tight embrace. Her eyes were still red from crying earlier and in his arms the tears flowed renewed. Bradin never wanted to let go.
From across the hall, Jason watched the two in shocked horror. How could it be that they were wrapped around each other like there was no tomorrow? Jason could feel bitterness rising up in a huge splurge. The jackass had refused to help him because he wanted only to help himself. While Jessica was angry with Jason for his well-meaning comments, Bradin was golden again after being a nasty perv and cold bastard for the fourth time.
Jessica was too choked up to speak. When they finally broke apart, Bradin was lit with surprise and hope as he searched her eyes. He could see how touched she was.
"I mean every word," Bradin whispered in her ear.
"Those were the sweetest things anyone's ever said about me," Jessica swallowed, her voice thick with emotion.
"I thought…" Bradin stammered, "When you didn't say anything…"
"My voice was being infuriating," Jessica shook her head, "You know me, Bray, I'm a sucker for anything sappy."
"So you're forgiving me? Do I get another chance?" Bradin bit his lip.
"How could any girl say no?" Jessica answered with a smile.
"You won't regret this, Jess, you won't," Bradin kissed her forehead. He moved down and brushed his lips against hers.
Jessica recoiled. Bradin looked at her with confusion.
"I-I care about you, a lot, Bradin, but I'm just not ready to be more than friends with you," Jessica looked down.
"I won't screw up that badly again-" Bradin tried to reassure her.
"I just need some time," Jessica repeated, giving his arm a squeeze. Her tone was pleading and her eyes apologetic as she continued; "I need you in my life, Bray. Will you still be here when I'm ready?"
Bradin kissed her nose and smiled lightly, "Like I could actually leave. I'll always be here, Jess. Always. Take as long as you need, I'll be here if you change your mind. I can wait."
Jessica hugged him again and closed her eyes. She felt content and safe with him, and she was relieved of his answer. She believed his words and hoped he had spoken true. She knew she wouldn't survive another let down from Bradin.
Bradin had said the words from his heart. He was elated she was in his life again, in any form. If and when she felt she was ready to move forward with him, he knew he'd be there with open arms. In the meantime, he was fine with waiting. Jessica was worth it.
A/N: Uber short, I know, I know. RnR, anyhow, please! I'm glad you guys liked the last chapter! If anyone's interested in Harry Potter, could you maybe check out my new HP fic, 'Tortured Soul'? It's a Draco/O.C story. Lolol, sorry for the advertising.
