A/N: *Ding Ding* "Your captain has turned on the seat belt sign as we are about to experience some turbulence. Please fold your trays up and return your seat to its upright position. Thank you."
"I think you can make it work honey."
I looked over at mom who was smiling like a mad woman.
"I don't know..." I replied, still contemplating.
"Do you like it?"
"I do but..." trailing off I stepped closer to the glass and looked at the suit. "I'm just not sure it will look good on me."
Mom placed her hand on top of my shoulder and squeezed.
"Try it on." With a gentle nudge from her we walked into the store and asked the associate to get us that suit we were looking at in my size. But since I waited til the last fucking minute to get my outfit my chances are slim to none. The shitty part about shopping today is that it fucked up my hang out time with Regina. I haven't been able to see her all week except for class and it's driving me crazy. Between her off time being filled up with grading and teaching and mine with projects and volleyball it gave us little time to talk on the phone, let alone text. She's also been weird, no more secret touches, no more fleeting looks of want...it's been very blah.
Ever since our steamy session on Saturday, that I can't fucking remember, Regina has kept her space. Like she's afraid of getting too close to me, physically. I'm chalking it up to her hitting the brakes in attempt to slow down our growing affection for one another.
But it's not working, not for me anyway. I just want her even more.
And then there's Rachel, who's been stuck to my fucking hip all week and while liked the attention it's been too fucking much. I figured I'd talk to her tomorrow, don't know what I'm going to say but I'm sure I'll pull something out of my ass.
Kicking my feet across the floor we found some chairs next to the fitting rooms and sat down. At least I have the dance to look forward to, even though we still can't be together the way we'd like. As I thought about Regina I felt mom eye me carefully before placing her hand on my knee bringing me out of my pity party.
"You okay?"
I tensed up as soon as the words left her mouth.
"I'm good mom." I tried to widen my smile but it ended up feeling like a straight line.
She nodded her head but her eyes were calling bullshit. Leaning back in the chair she moved her hand and placed it on my back, rubbing her fingers in between my shoulders.
"You know when your dad and I first started dating we hid it from our parents for months."
Um...where is this fucking story going?
"One day we got into a fight." she continued. "For the next few weeks I walked around the house like a robot. My body was going through the normal routine but my mind was always drifting back to him. Finally after moping long enough your grandparents sat me down and essentially made me spill everything. I was nervous but after we talked, it seemed like a weight was lifted off my shoulders."
"What did you guys fight about?" I asked. It felt like a trap and this would somehow turn into me revealing my feelings for Regina but still I played along.
Sighing mom ran a hand through her short hair.
"This is not one of my finest moments but when we first met he was dating somebody else. We hooked one up one night and started sneaking around her back."
My eyes widened.
"Mom!" I shrieked, hearing my voice filling the tiny store. "I'm impressed."
"Out of all the great things I've done that is what your most impressed with?" she replied with a smile.
"I'm just saying, didn't know you had it in you."
Laughing softly she tilted her head back to rest against the wall behind us.
"I was young, dumb, and driven by hormones back then."
"So what happened?"
Yea...she got me hooked.
"I told him that this needed to stop, he didn't want it to but I couldn't anymore, I just felt like such a-a..."
"Homewrecker?" I finished for her.
"Yea. That's a good way to put it."
Is that it? No it can't end like that.
"Did you tell anyone what was going on between you two at the time?"
"Only Ariel." Her light chuckle reached my ears. "She's the only one out of my friends I knew wouldn't hunt him down and make a scene. I was always worried that if it got out, that'd be the end of my high school reputation and his."
The rotations she was drawing on my back slowed to a halt. She drew her hand back and pulled on my shoulder gently. Turning to face her I saw the concerned mommy look.
"I won't make you say anything. Just know that we can tell something has been off with you lately."
I nodded my head and leaned back in my seat. Letting my eyes drift shut I thought about how'd she react if she knew the woman I'm dating is my 27 year old physics teacher.
"Is this some sort of reverse psychology?" I asked.
"No, like I said we are here for you when you're ready."
Staying silent I began to crack my knuckles one by one trying to fill the silence. I was chomping at the fucking bits to tell her where my fucking mind has been. I've never had to lie and lately that's all I seem to be doing. And, I feel like it's taking a toll on me.
"So there's this person." I mumbled with a heavy sigh. She didn't answer right away as if she was waiting for me to continue. Opening my eyes I rolled my head and saw her smile.
"Does this person like you?"
"Yea."
"What's wrong then?" she asked, shifting her body to the side giving me her attention.
Running a hand through my hair I stopped mid stride leaving it grasping at the hair in the middle of my head.
"It's complicated, she's-" I hesitated. How far is too far.
"She's what?" Placing her hand on my back again, her fingers moved to play with the end of my blonde strands. "You can trust me honey." Deep down I knew that, but this isn't some cheating high school scandal with the captain of the football team, this is real fucking shit.
"It's complicated." I repeated. "Because she's...older." whispering the last word I hunched my shoulders and braced for impact.
"How much?" does she sound… Amused?
"Older." was all I felt I could say and she scoffed slightly.
Oh I'm sorry, am I boring you?
"I'm sorry." mom added quickly, probably from seeing the look on my face. "It's just now I owe your dad 50 bucks."
What? What does that have anything to do with anything?
"Why?"
"You're dad and I always use to joke about the type of person you'd end up with. We always felt you were so mature however I still thought you would stay in your age group. Your father on the other hand said 'i bet you 50 bucks she'll end up with someone 5 plus years her age'. She said using her best dad voice. "And judging by the way you said older, I'm thinking he's right."
Yup, he's right
"You're not upset?"
"Why would I be? Because you like someone who's older than you? I think there's bigger problems in the world than that." and that's why I fucking loved this woman. "So what's going on with you and this woman."
"Things have just been off. We're just two ships passing in the night." Or at school.
Wrapping me up in her arm she pulled me to her side.
"Well, the good news is that the Earth is round, so you're bound to meet again."
Gah, mom is fucking cheesy it's actually awesome.
"Thanks." I replied with a short grin and left the subject at that not wanting to give away too many clues. As Regina says 'a woman's got to have her secrets.'
Ugh, Regina… it's almost pathetic how much I miss her.
"We're going to see Grandma and Grandpa Nolan for Christmas." mom suddenly said as if she noticed my previous teasing vibe slipping away with each passing thought of my girlfriend.
"Awesome." I said with a fake smile, unable to hide the disappointment from my voice.
Usually this excited me. Grandpa Nolan is the fucking shit. He lives in Utah and when I go visit we shoot a couple rounds at the range, ride ATV's in the snow, do some ice fishing, and then finish it off with a game of Powder Puff Football when the rest of the extended family shows up.
But that means more time away from Regina. And yea she'll be in Boston, that doesn't mean it's easier though.
"I figured we could leave early Thursday morning because your last day is next Wednesday?" mom asked.
I nodded, feeling my body go on autopilot. I would say I should be thankful for the distractions I'll have but I'm not, because I'll still look for her hoping she'll randomly pop up knowing how absolutely far fetched that would be. For instance, let's take this situation. As I sit here waiting for the associate that is taking a million fucking years to come back, I wish with everything in me that she'll just happen to be shopping at the same place we are. Which is silly but that's how much I'm into this woman. She has me so fucking hooked that I feel like if I actually wish hard enough that when I turn my head she'll just fucking…
Waltz…
On…
In…?
What...No, no, you've got to be fucking kidding me. I pinched myself to see if this was real.
"Ouch, fuck." I hissed. Yup, it's real. As real as the stunned expression plastered on my face right now.
Um, thanks to Whoever made that come true I thought as Regina and Mal stood by the rack at the front of the store. Ew, Mal. Maybe I should've been more specific. I closed my eyes and muttered:
"I wish that blonde bitch would fly the fuck away right now."
But to no avail as I cracked my eyes open and saw they were laughing and joking with one another. That sucks, I guess I only get one wish that comes true every 17 years. I'll be checking back in at 34 then.
Suddenly Regina lifted her gaze in my direction and I flew back as if the seat would somehow swallow me up. Mom jerked her head in my direction, shooting me a startled look.
"Jesus Emma." she said loud enough for my secret girlfriend to most definitely hear.
Sitting back far enough I sank down in my chair cutting off my visibility behind the racks until I felt like I could see her but she couldn't see me. Why in the fuck does this feel so damn awkward? Is it because I haven't seen her in 6 days outside of school and for the first time it's with my mom?
"Excuse me, Miss." I heard Mal call while the associate finally sped from the back with a black dress bag folded over arms.
"One second. You can follow me over here while I finish helping these customers." the girl politely replied.
Shit, why would she say that? Bitch you are the fucking worst. I began to bounce my foot on the ground and twirl the loose strands of my hair around me finger, feeling my moms gaze burn curiously at my reactions. Multiple footsteps grew louder and with my free hand I gripped the side of my chair.
"Emma, what's wrong?" mom asked tilting her chin down and dropping her voice to a whisper.
However I couldn't speak because as the young woman got closer that meant Regina was closer. I whispered a fucking hope and prayer that this would go smoothly while the girly voice from the associate floated to my ears.
"Here you go Miss." she said. Black heels came into view behind her and my heart sped up. Act natural bitch. Act fucking natural.
"Thank you." mom replied, stepping in to save me as she stood up, took the bag from the woman's hands before a gasp fell from her lips. "Regina!?"
So they're on a first name basis?
"Mary Margaret?" she replied with a tinge of surprise.
The dress bag fell down on the seat next to me, taking that as my chance I stood up, grabbed the hanger connected to the bag, whispered thank you to the associate and slipped into the fitting room without a look in their direction.
"Jesus why does this have to be so weird." I mumbled once I locked the door. Throwing the hanger on the hook I sat down on the small bench while I ran a hand through my hair. Regina's laugh sang through the door sending tingles up and down my spine.
It's been so long since I've heard that sound.
With some haste I started to take off my clothes, when my pants slid down my legs I felt the vibration of my phone. Taking it out, I kicked them off as a soft smile appeared on my lips.
So this is unexpected.
I'll say. You can blame me for that, I made a wish and it came true.
Placing the phone on the bench I put on the dress pants, slipped my arms through the shirt then began to button it up when my phone went off.
Really? Well in that case I need you to make a phone call asking for another one. For me to be in that dressing room with you...naked.
I almost dropped my phone reading that last word. She chooses to be ballsy in the craziest situations, at a time where we should be most cautious she wants to play games and start sexting me. While she's talking to my fucking mom.
Sorry, don't think I can for another 17 year. Guess you'll just have to walk in here yourself
You know I would.
I bit my lip to hold back the moan that wanted to escape just knowing if I could hear those words coming out of her mouth her voice would have that husky filter to it. A low heat settled at the bottom of my stomach as my fingers moved over the letters on the screen.
And once you were in here, what would we do :)
Hashtag: went there.
Putting on the jacked I glanced over my reflection in the mirror. I was rocking the fuck out of this suit and the violet shirt just brings it all together. Happy with my choice I changed back into my original clothes, put the suit in the bag and stepped out. Looking to my left I saw mom and Mal in conversation while Regina jerked her head up from her phone. There was a faint blush spreading up her neck and across her face while she tugged on her blouse as if it were too hot in here.
Which it's not.
So that must mean she's turned on. Moisture drained from my throat at the thought of how wet she must be and I coughed gently, getting the attention of the other two.
"How did it fit?" mom asked enthiastically.
"Tight in some areas, other than that it fit nicely." I replied keeping my eyes on Regina's dark brown iris's watching the glazed over look pass them. Apparently, catching on to my subtle way of saying that I was hard.
Jesus this is fucking hot.
I walked over to mom who had her hands reached out for the dress bag. Taking the hanger when I got close she draped it over her arm and smiled.
"Glad we found something. By the way Emma, meet your new Vice Prinicipal." she said pointing to Mal.
The older blonde woman smiled politely at me then nodded her head.
"We've met. Nice to see you again Emma."
"You too Vice Principal Page." I replied using my fake nice voice, which is so close to my genuine nice voice that people can hardly tell the difference. "Hey mom is it okay if I go look around the store?"
"Yes, meet me at the register when I get there."
I politely excused myself from their mini group and headed back out into the store. I shifted to a coat rack that I gave zero fucks about but the visual of Regina's ass from this angle is too good to pass up. And what about my text back, now that I'm out of the fitting room is the spark gone?
Casually I watched as she turned around and when her gaze met mine I dropped it to a leather jacket not wanting to give her the satisfaction that I was openly checking her out. However when I looked up again she was gone. Where in the fuck did she go? Mom and Mal idly chatted as they walked to the register and with heavy sigh I went over to meet them.
Taking a spot off to the side I reached in my back pocket and grabbed my phone to text her but before I could it vibrated in my hand as a new message popped in our thread.
Look to the right
Slowly I turned my head to find her standing a few racks away from me with a smile on her face.
Why don't you come over here?
Watching as she received my message my heart flutter at the nose crinkle and the soft smile that graced her lips.
Not a good idea
Furrowing my eyebrows at the message I texted back quickly.
Why?
It's just not.
I glanced up to catch Regina's eye only now her back was turned to me as she skimmed through the other side of the rack. Pursing my lips to one side I raised an eyebrow wondering if it was because of Mal.
I can be incognito if you're worried about me fucking up in front of blondie.
It's not you I'm worried about. I feel like I need to handcuff myself to this rack in order to keep myself from jumping your bones.
I feel your pain. I really do.
We can always sneak into a fitting room ;)
You have no idea how much I wish we could. I know this week has been a little off for us but I want to get some time with you before I leave for Boston Wednesday night.
She leaves Wednesday night? Damn, way to drop a fucking bomb.
"You ready sweetie?" mom asked before I could text back.
"Yes." No, I want to keep creepily staring at my girlfriend while we text each other even though we're only 15 feet apart.
Turning her attention back to the VP mom said goodbye, waved to Regina and walked out of the store, feeling my phone vibrate in my hand.
Do you want to hang out after the dance tomorrow?
Smiling, I took my gaze off my phone and to mom.
"Do you mind if I stay at Belle's tomorrow after the dance?" I asked, attempting to hide the excitement from my voice.
"You girls have been hanging a lot lately. But I understand with it being senior year and all."
"Is that yes?" I sound way too hopeful to just 'hang out with Belle'.
"It's a yes, but home by 10am on Saturday."
Damn that's early but I'll take what I can get.
"Thanks mom." I replied as I typed out my message to Regina.
Absolutely
"So I'll pick you up around 7:45?" Belle asked as we walked with the group to our table for lunch.
"Yup. Can't wait to see you all cleaned up." I joked, throwing my arm over her shoulder.
"I still think it's unfair that Belle gets to see you before we do." T stated as she tuned around, continuing to keep pace with everyone while walking backwards.
"That's what happens when you're my favorite." I replied winking at her.
And if I'm being honest, she is. Of course I love my main besties but Belle is a true friend. She's that ride or die friend. Not me, I have questions…Where are we riding to? Why do I have to die? Can I get fries on the way?
"Hey!" Jefferson whined. "What am I? Chopped dick?"
"Isn't suppose to be chopped liver?" Ruby asked.
"I hate liver, but dick I love." he said smacking his lips.
"Wait, if you love dick then why chop it up?" Sadie teased.
"Exactly." he stated.
We all shot him crazy look not understanding what the fuck he was talking about.
"Listen it made sense before you guys started over analyzing the fuck out of it." Jefferson pouted.
We continued to fool around while talking about how the car situation was going to work from the game to the house they wanted to get ready and back to school. Reaching the table I dropped my backpack down feeling relieved this was the only thing I have to carry ever since Ruby's been offering me to leave my duffel in her car. Pulling out my lunch, I set it on the table but before I could get situated a light tap was felt on my shoulder. Anticipating that it was Regina I placed a big grin on my face and spun around but to my dismay it was only Rachel.
"Mind if I talk to you for a sec?" she asked matching my smile.
No, that wasn't meant for you. Damn it. Well, at least we can get this out of the way. No time like the present right?
"Sure." Dropping my head to Belle I sent her a quick smirk. "I'll be back soon."
Her gaze fell upon Rachel then mine before I received a nod. Walking away from my friends she led me through the maze of bodies and to a grassy area with a tree that I recognized as The Senior Willow. A place where only seniors were allowed to be in, tradition was you carve your name along with the year you graduated.
"Is this spot okay?" she asked softly.
"Works for me." I said with a nervous chuckle. My goal was to keep the mood light but it only made things more uncomfortable. We sat down next each other, making sure I kept enough space between us, although today she seems oddly perceptive and scooted closer to me.
"In the spirit of not dragging this out too far I wanted to talk to you about us."
Us? No, there is no us. Us as in friends maybe but that's all.
"Yea, that's what I wanted to talk to you about too."
"I figured." she replied.
Oh, that was easy.
"Cool, so you understand?"
"I understand that you said you're not into dating teammates, so that's why I wanted to talk to you about maybe hanging out when volleyball is over." She shifted her position so we were facing each other and grabbed my hands. I tugged back on them but she held onto them tightly. Her eyes had so much hope. Too bad I have to crush it. I hated this part, I hated being the person delivering shitty news. I want to be the bearer of good news; 'Did you hear Timmy scored the winning goal?' 'Stop crying over Fuckboy Frank, you were too good for him anyway' 'Your ass looks amazing in those jeans'.
That's the shit I'd prefer to say, but no, here I am about to hurt another persons feelings.
Sighing I snatched my hands back and placed them under my legs in case she tried anything like that again.
"Look Rachel you are a really nice girl. I like you a lot-"
Shit.
By the time I realized what was happening it was too late. Eyes frozen open with shock, my words were cut off by her lips on mine. Instantly I pulled back, staring at the semi dazed look on her face until my eyes focused on the figure behind her on the walkway.
"Regina..." I whispered to myself as my heart ached at how upset she looked in this moment.
"Rachel...Jesus Emma my fucking name is Rachel." my teammate said in disbelief.
But who cares, I'm too focused on the pain crossing her face, pain that shifted into anger as her lips tightened to a thin straight line, perfectly shaped eyebrows pulling to the middle, and her jaw was clenched tight. She made a B line down the open walkway and letting my stupid impulses take over I quickly got up to chase after her leaving Rachel by herself under the tree.
Pushing through the students I tried my hardest to catch up with her but I swear she doesn't move at a human pace when she walks in heels noticing the distance between us increased. She was a light on the horizon getting block out by the crowd...then she was gone.
"Fuck!" I yelled.
If it's not one damn thing it's another.
Dropping my head back I looked to the sky.
"You guys getting a good laugh up there?" I mumbled. But really I couldn't blame anybody but myself. Although I was not expecting Rachel to kiss me all bold as fuck like that. "Fuck." I gasped. "Rachel..."
With a quick pace I made my way back to the tree and surprise surprise...she wasn't there. I ripped my phone from my pocket, found her name and pressed the call button. As I expected it rang once then straight to voicemail. Hanging up I tried again, again straight to voicemail. I tried over and over with the same results.
What's the definition of insanity?
The warning bell rang causing me to cringe as I thought about how fast this day took a shit. Seriously, what in the actual fuck.
Sending a quick text to Jefferson asking if he can bring my stuff to PE I took the little bit of time I had left to find Regina and salvage what I could of this colossal fuck up. Figuring she'd be standing outside her door greeting students I ran to her hallway. Slowing down once I got close, I fixed my wild hair and straightened out my clothes. Walking in I found I was right, she smiled at a kid who walked in and to anyone else they'd see the same Ms. Mills, but I knew her and I could see she was struggling to keep her professionalism check, especially when our eyes met.
Her body tensed up while her nostrils causing me to stay glued to my spot, blocking up the doorway while people pushed past me. Dropping her chin at an angle in that oh so challenging way Regina shook her head telling me not to do this. Biting my lip I sent her pleading look, I needed her to change her mind because that kiss did NOT mean anything. I need her to know that. My begging was not received however as the last student walked in and she shut the door without giving me another thought.
Message received loud and clear.
I made my way back to PE feeling like the biggest asshole ever. It's been what, two -ish weeks that I've had a girlfriend and already I'm caught in some bullshit like this. Not to mention the way I just left Rachel. Reaching for the handle of the gym my mind spun with ways to fix this setback when a gentle 'plop' hit the top of right shoulder. Looking down I saw white bird shit resting on my shirt, what is this? The cherry on top?
The door opened in front of me and Jefferson walked out in his gym clothes. He pointed to my shoulder and frowned.
"What is that?"
I sighed followed by sarcastic chuckle.
"It's my fucking day."
The bobby pin slid in my hair holding the braid in place. Mom insisted on doing my hair tonight and to be honest I was too exhausted to fight with her. 6th period went as I expected with Regina doing everything in her power avoid me. Even going as far as rolling her chair to the opposite side of the room and teaching the lesson from there. I understood, she needed to get through class without losing her fucking cool, so in attempt to make it easier I kept my head down and doodled. I didn't even bother talking to her after class to see if we were still on for tonight knowing it would only make things worse. I'm just keeping my fingers crossed she'll reach out to me soon.
And because Rachel is mature as fuck she was able to put aside any afflictions towards me as stayed calm and we played a bomb ass game, making it our third win a row. I tried to grab her after but it seemed she could hardly look at me and mumbled "great game, you played well, see you Monday." Then she got in her car and drove off, I guessed that meant she wasn't going to the dance tonight.
Rachel was so great at hiding her feelings that team couldn't even tell there was tension between us.
"Just one more loop around the ponytail and then we're finished." mom said with a smile. "There. Now you can look."
Standing up, I turned around to face the mirror, giving myself a detailed once over. I had on a black jacket, black slacks, violet colored shirt, black skinny tie and my all black suede shoes. My hair had a medium sized fish braid running along the left side and pulled the rest of it up into a ponytail. She added light touches of make up to my face making me look a little older than what I was. Moms reflection appeared beside me and she beamed with pride.
"My have you grown up." she whispered, the tears welling up in her eyes.
"Don't cry, it's only the winter ball. What are you going to do for prom?" I lightly teased.
"It'll be like this, just a million times worse." She chuckled, stepping in front of me and straightened out my tie as tears rolled down her face. "I just remember when you were younger and you use to dress up in your dads suits, now here you are, wearing your own suit looking handsomely beautiful."
I paused her movements and pulled her in for a loving hug. She buried her face in my jacket as she softly cried while I rubbed her back.
"EMMA! BELLE'S HERE!" Dad called from downstairs.
"One sec!" I responded as she lifted her head off my chest and cupped my face.
"Let's go, we don't want to keep your date waiting because I'm getting sentimental." mom said with a shaky breath.
Leaning down I kissed her on the cheek.
"Thanks mom. I love you."
She smiled at me and I thought she was going to break down again before she sucked in a stuttered breath reining her emotions.
"I love you to sweetie. Come on."
Hand in hand we walked down the stairs and when I descended to Belle's view her eyes widened and her mouth dropped open. My gaze racked over her outfit and shit, she looked hot. A violet colored strapless thigh length dress that frilled at the end, black cute jacket hugging shoulders, black clutch and cute violet heels.
"Oh my God Emma." she said.
Mom let me go at the last step to meet Belle. I wrapped her up in a tight hug as I lifted her off the ground and spun her in a circle. Chuckling lightly after I set her down she gave my outfit another look and smiled.
"Emma, you look so hot."
"Same goes for you."
"Aww, David. Look at them." I heard mom say off to the side.
This poor woman, somebody get her a box of Kleenex
"Alright kids, get out of here before my wife holds you hostage." dad joked.
"Wait before you get rid of us, I have a question. Did you drive or did your dad drive you over?" I asked Belle.
"My dad." she replied.
Nodding my head I turned back to my parents.
"Do you guys mind if I take Belle on my bike tonight? I promise to be careful, no drinking, and I won't speed."
She squealed beside me and began to jump up and down. Both of them scrunched their eyebrows and glanced at each other. The silent conversation they were having was obvious and I knew ultimately it would be up to mom, it always is.
"Okay, Belle why don't you go ask your dad if it's okay with him." mom replied still looking up at her husband.
Not responding, she sprinted out of the door and as she did mom shifted her gaze towards me. Knowing we were about to have a talk I walked up to meet them and they placed one of their of hands on each shoulder.
"You've earned this-" mom started. "You've been doing well in school, you've hardly given us trouble, except for a few incidents." she finished with a smile.
"Since you're acting like an adult, we will treat you like one." dad added.
"But, understand the minute you show your ass that will be the minute your freedom gets taken away. Now when you come back home to grab your clothes before going back to Belle's house, wake us so we can say goodnight."
Back to Belle's house? Oh! she's my alibi, that's right. One that might be coming true with how tense things are between Regina and I.
"I understand." I replied.
With a smile they pulled me in for a hug. Thanking them once more I untangled my arms, grabbed my keys, kissed them both on the cheek and headed for the garage. Opening it I found Belle standing outside with her father. Mr. French motioned for me to come over with his finger.
Oh jeez, protective dad talk. I set my shoulders back to look more confident as I strode over to meet them.
"I'm trusting you with my daughter tonight. Don't let me down Emma." he said sternly.
"Dad!" Belle whined.
"No, Belle it's okay. Roger that sir. I'll take care of her." Roger that? Fucking dumb ass.
He let a small smile lift the corner of his mouth coupled with a head nod.
"Okay. You two be safe out there tonight."
Mr. French gave his daughter a big hug and a kiss on the forehead before handing her off to me. He waved to us before getting in his car and driving out of the neighborhood.
"You ready?" I asked
"Definitely." she replied with a smile.
We walked to my bike and I handed her a helmet. Her excitement was contagious and I found myself feeling a little less anxious about how the rest of the night would go. Maybe if I just hung out with her the whole time she'd be able to distract me from running over to Regina.
Hurdling one leg over the bike I sat on my seat, feeling Belle get comfortable behind me.
"You know I have to admit, I'm a little worried about how cold you're going to get in that dress."
"I'll be fine." she mumbled into my back while wrapping her arms around my waist.
"Yea but-"
"Emma." she said. "Just drive."
Starting bike, I heard Belle giggle behind as The Savior rumbled heavily under us. Mom and dad poked their heads out the door giving us one final wave before we took off to school, closing the garage door behind us. It was taking me a minute to get the balance right with an extra person but once I did we were off, her grip tightened around my waist as she propped her chin on my shoulder. Feeling as if we were one with my bike I weaved through the traffic, caught all green lights, until we hit the road that led to our school.
"Can you go faster?" she whispered.
Smirking, I cranked down on the throttle speeding us up a little. Not too fast because I did promise...but enough for her to have fun. Tilting her head back she laughed and threw one of her fists in the air.
"WHOOOOOOHOOOOO!" she screamed into the night sky causing me to laugh along with her. "I'M QUEEN OF THE WORLD!"
Her elated emotions overflowed on to me and soon I found myself screaming like fucking wild child right along with her. Pushing all the shitty energy coursing through me out into the air and when we pulled into the parking lot I felt a lot better and much more relaxed. Taking my normal spot I turned off the bike, clasped the helmets together and helped her climb off it. Quickly we checked each other's hair, make up, and clothes making sure everything was in place and after I texted mom we had made it I propped my hand on my hip and turned to Belle.
"Miss French." I said with a confident and flirty smirk.
She blushed as her head dropped. Looping her arm through mine we merged in with the mass amount of bodies that were headed to the gym. Scanning the faces I searched for Regina but there were so many fucking people here that were dressed up my eyes couldn't sort through the faces fast enough.
"Her car is here. I'm sure she's inside." Belle said. Dropping my gaze to her I smiled. This girl is always looking out for me. "Are you guys ya know, okay? In class she seemed really tense and you looked like puppy who just got caught tearing up the rug." she finished.
My smile slipped into a frown as I sighed and shook my head no.
"Long story short, Rachel kissed me at lunch and Regina saw it." Her step faltered beside me but she recovered in a hurry.
"Well, that's quite a shit storm you've gotten yourself into."
"Tell me about it." I mumbled
"You didn't try and talk to her about it at school again did you?"
Another sigh fell from my lips drifting my gaze to the right and found her white Porsche in it's normal spot.
"I did, but when I got close she basically said fuck off, so I did."
"What happened with Rachel?"
Please, can we just drop this.
"I left her there."
"By herself?!" she asked raising her voice.
I couldn't answer so I just shook my head yes.
"Wow Emma."
"I know! I know, trust me I fucking know."
"Gotta give her credit for pulling through when it came to the game though. I'm actually really surprised. When you guys took off I just thought she would finally tell you she liked you. But to kiss you...wow...and then how it ended. I'm just-wow."
"Yea, wow." I grumbled.
As we took our place in line to go through the gates Belle shifted the conversation away from the dilemma with my girlfriend and to Christmas plans. Her family will be coming into town, they had some things planned but she wanted to figure out a way for the five of us to get together during break for our traditional gift exchange. She sounded bummed when I told I'd be in Utah but after I promised we'd spend some time together when I got back she seemed to be okay.
We reached the front, checked in and headed to the gym. Screams, loud music, and the pounding of jumps on the gym floor in time with beat reached my ears. Belle pulled me off to the side, slipped in front of me as she began to mess with my collar.
"I know tonight isn't what you thought it would be, just give me your word you'll still try and have fun?"
"You have my word." I replied with a smile.
Grinning back at me her hands trailed down my arm until she laced our fingers together and led us inside. Upon walking in I found the DJ up on some sort of platform with a sea of bodies gyrating all around us. I didn't even recognize the gym with the strobe lights bouncing off the walls and the winter wonderland theme decorations. Again I looked for Regina through the mob of sweaty faces but still didn't see her.
Belle gasped beside me, tugged on my arm and pointed with her finger.
"There they are." Who?
Jerking my head in the direction of her hand I saw our friends staring at us with their mouths open. Everyone except Rachel. Just beyond their shocked faces I saw Vice Principal Page laughing with... . Fuck. My stomach twisted into that familiar knot as I stared at Regina who was in a tight black pant suit. I mean tight, that thing hugged her in all the right fucking places. The pants cuffed at the ankle leading me to her heels that looked black and...purple? Why purple? Is this her low key way of trying to match.
I could not take my eyes off her profile, watching her the side of her mouth lift to a smile, the way her shoulder length straight hair moved while she threw her head back, letting a sweet airy laugh out. Even in the distance I can see the vein bulge in her neck and fuck did I want to bite it.
I'm so fucking shook right now.
My blue orbs dragged from her heels to her jawline.
Jawline to heels. Heels to jawline. Jawline to heels. Heels to jawline. Jawline to heels. Heels to...eyes? Shit, she must've felt my stalker like stare drinking her in. With a smirk that hinted to her puffed up ego she lazily turned around to show me the front.
I'm dead. I'm fucking dead. Somebody call 911 because my body is going to combust.
"Whoa." Belle hissed. Fucking exactly I thought as we both stared at Regina's low v cut. Low like ending just above her belly button and the only stopping it was the classy belt she had wrapped around her waist.
She knows I can't fucking function when she wears a regular v cut so why would she wear something like this? Her laugh reached my ears again as she teasingly slid her fingers over her exposed skin but kept her gaze on Mal. I groaned, fighting the urge to go over there, yank her away and fuck her outside this damn gym. She's got to be doing this on purpose. There is no way she didn't think of my reaction to this outfit before committing to it.
This is punishment. She's punishing me. I'm being punished.
"Come on." Belle whispered. "We can't keep staring at her like this." She tugged on my arm but I stayed rooted in my spot watching the two women interact with each other. "Emma." Belle said and grabbed my chin yanking it to her. "It's okay, you got this. Ready?"
Hesitantly I nodded my head and she walked us over to our group.
"Okay Daddy, I see you." Jefferson teased when we got closer.
"Shut up." I replied lightly. "You guys like it?"
"Um, do I have a face?" Dorothy joked causing our group to laugh.
"Rachel couldn't make it. She said she had a lot of school stuff to finish up before break." T said, unintentionally making the guilt seep in.
Out of my peripheral vision I felt Regina looking at me over Mal's shoulder. As our friends filled our heads with comments I casually looked her way. Once our eyes met I was stuck, I can't fucking read her with that mask she's got up but it looks like she can definitely read me. I sent her the saddest fucking look hoping she'd change her mind but instead her right eyebrow raised and just like earlier today, she shook her head no.
Rolling my eyes in frustration I turned my attention back to my group.
"Who's ready to dance?" Ruby yelled as we made our way to the danfloor. Well they did, Belle had to drag my ass because I am not a fan of dancing. But I told her I'd try, so here we are. Beats watching Mal flirt Regina.
During our first song I was really stiff, mostly just bobbing my head back and forth while Belle, who loves to fucking dance, did her thing against me. Half way through the second song I started to loosen up, finding my rhythm as more people filled the dance floor. 7 songs later I'm a sweaty dancing fool, my coat was tossed somewhere, my tie had loosened up and the first few buttons of my shirt were undone and I was so damn thirsty.
Getting Belle's attention I motioned to the bar they had set up for us fully equipped with soda and water. Agreeing, we walked out of the crowd just in time for a slow song to come on. I paid for our waters and after chugging half of my bottle I leaned against the wall and pressed it against my face in attempt to cool down. Belle rested her head on my shoulder and I could tell she was already getting tired.
"You just let me know when you are ready to go home." I said. Please say you're ready.
"Not yet, it's only been 30 minutes." a light laugh that turned into a yawn escaped her lips.
I went to respond but soon goosebumps waved over my skin and my hair stood on end. Knowing what that means I shifted my head from side to side as I looked for Regina. Huddled in the corner to my left she was leaning her back against the wall with one foot propped up behind her as Mal talked, although she didn't seem to be registering her words. She's too busy looking at me.
Does this mean something? Let this fucking mean something.
Giving her attention back to the blonde she whispered something, patted her shoulder then headed for the exit closest to us. Reaching the door she paused, turned to look at me then left. I think that means she wants me to follow her. Glancing to Belle I saw her staring at the door Regina just left through, she must've been watching with me.
"Go." she said with a smile on her face.
"Are you sure?" I whispered. "I can stay-" but she was already shaking her head no, cutting me off from my sentence.
"No you need to go handle whatever that was." she replied.
I pulled her in for a tight hug, peppering her forehead with kisses.
"Thank you. Thank you so much Belle."
"I know, I'm the best." she replied with a wink after she drew her body away from mine. "I'll see if one of the others can take me home and in case I don't see you before I leave. I had a great time tonight." and with that she spun around on her heels and headed back to dance floor.
With a smile, I walked out of the gym and started looking for Regina. My eyes caught a tiny frame wandering towards the classrooms and instinctively I followed her, making sure to keep the distance between us. After a few minutes of hearing the sound of my own shoes squeak against the ground, I rounded a corner and saw her entering the hall that led to her class.
Hm, maybe she wants privacy. That would make sense. As I walked in I saw she was unlocking the door to her room, without looking back at me she stepped inside not bothering to hold it open.
Okay Swan, you got this. Just explaine what happened and hopefully she won't see you as an immature teenage kid. I wiped my sweaty palms over my pants, gripped the handle and entered the pitch black classroom.
;)