Hey guys, new chapter is here!
Author's Note: For anyone who hasn't watched anime before, they like to do a lot of time skips so if you find I do that I'm just trying to stay true to the anime. PS: If anybody wants to know a good anime to watch besides Itazura Na Kiss, try Clannad/ Clannad After Story, totally changed my life after watching it.
Chapter 17:
"Everyone just put your assignments on my desk on your way out" Professor Reynolds said as the class slowly filed out of the room.
I went into my folder pulling out my finished assignment. It took me a while but I finally finished it.
"Alright! Freedom at last" Musa said joining me as I walked out
"I actually think I may get an A on that assignment" I said proudly
"That's great Stella. I think I got an A too…well okay maybe like a solid C plus" Musa said
I smiled.
"Look at us, college kids" I said
"College kids indeed. We actually care about our work now" Musa said
I nodded.
"Yeah, we're not screw ups after all!" I said, and we both laughed
"Cant wait for our 10 year high school reunion so I can show Ms. Grizelda she was wrong about me" Musa said, and we high fived.
"Stella!"
I turned and saw Casey jogging toward us.
"Oh,hey!" I called, waving
"Well I'm gonna go, Stella, let's meet at Starbucks" Musa said as he approached
"Okay, see ya"
Casey smiled, panting slightly.
"What's up?" I asked
"I believe you promised me a make-up date" He said
I tried to hide the smiled I felt come up.
"You are correct….how about Friday night?" I asked
"You're not gonna ditch me again are you?" He asked
I laughed.
"No"
"Good because I was promised a Stella date and a Stella date I shall have" He said
"How persistent" I said
"And by persistent you mean hot, right?" He asked with a smirk
"Alright, hold the flirting for the date lover boy" I said
He laughed.
"You got a deal"
I smiled, waving.
"See ya" I said, then turned to leave
Casey smiled, watching me walk away. In the distant sat Brandon watching, studying the scene unraveling before him.
"Hey Brandon" Brandon turned toward Mackenzie, her black hair blowing in the wind making her look even more radiant. The 2 were sitting on a bench, quietly studying. You could just feel the envy people were sending their way. Brandon so handsome and Mackenzie so beautiful…the perfect match.
Brandon turned toward her, "Yeah?"
"What do you think of Stella?" She asked
"What do you mean?" Brandon asked
"Well I mean how could you live with somebody and not start to feel something toward them…even as a friend?" She asked
"Stella's a different story. She loud…and obnoxious…and the biggest airhead I've ever met. And for me to feel something toward somebody like…even friendship… that would be completely absurd" He said coldly
Mackenzie smiled, sitting back down.
She sighed, "And what do you think of me?" She asked quietly
Brandon shrugged, looking down at his book.
"I have no words" He said
"Is that a good thing?" Mackenzie asked
"I suppose it is" He said
Mackenzie smiled, sitting down, content with herself. She was after all, the perfect girl. Obviously Brandon's other match, right? Smart, refined, respectable…so what was that little voice in the back of Brandon's head, and the strange feeling in the pit of his stomach.
A few months later….
It was approaching late winter, the snow falling heavily at Princeton College. The girls and I were finally getting used to the college life. Musa and I finally buckled down and got serious with our work, maintaining solid C averages in all of our classes- our parents couldn't believe it! What can I say? It's not an A but it's enough to keep my scholarship. I've been hanging out in the art room for majority of my time. The art club has been taking trips to art galleries and the teacher has introduced us to people in the business. It's probably my favorite part of college.
Brandon and I don't really talk much, he's usually off with Mackenzie. They're always either studying or talking. All the men faun over Mackenzie. I just wish I can go to them and explain how they have no choice because she's crushing on Brandon. I always wonder if they're dating. Personally I think Brandon is just too stubborn for life. One day Mackenzie is going to get it- I know she will. The same rejection I felt. The same rejection every girl from my high school felt. A rejection from Brandon Shields isn't like other rejections. It hurts more. Sometimes I kind of feel bad for Mackenzie, no matter how obnoxious she is to me.
My relationship with Casey Freedmen is...a little awkward. After our first date we never really made anything official. I don't really know what that's supposed to mean. Either way, I'm not one to get upset over these things. We're still really good friends.
"Holy shit it's cold out there!" Layla said, entering with Musa. The 2 were dressed in their warmest coats, scarves, hats, gloves, and boots. There faces were rosy red from the cold. They each had a suitcase in their hands.
"Laaayyylllaaa! Muuusssaaa!" We all screamed, running to hug them
"Hey you guys!" Musa said, hugging me tight
"How was your holiday?" I asked
"Awesome! Nabu came over for Christmas Eve" Layla said
"Awww, that's sweet" Bloom said
We had all just returned from Christmas break. We all went home for the holidays. We just came back today for the big New Years Party. It's supposed to be really fun so we made sure to be here. After the party we'll all be going back home though. Our break was still another few days.
I grabbed Layla, hugging her to death.
"I feel like I haven't seen you girls in forever" I said
"It's so good to be back" Musa sighed, collapsing on the couch.
We all took the train here except for Musa and Layla. Musa drove with Layla.
"How was Christmas with the demon?" Musa asked me.
"Sammy? We're cool now-"
"Not Sammy you idiot, Brandon" Musa said
"Oh…actually he kind of didn't come" I said
They raised their eyebrow.
"What?" Flora asked
"Yup, he totally ditched Christmas. If the snow wasn't falling so hard Melanie would have went on a train and dragged his sorry ass home" I said
"What an asshole. What? He'd rather sit in his apartment alone?" Bloom asked
"Yes" I said
They shook their heads.
"Poor Sammy. He never even considers Sammy's feelings, does he?" Flora asked
I laughed.
"Oh that's a good one Flora. Brandon doesn't consider anyone's feelings" I said
They rolled their eyes.
"Somebody's gotta knock some sense into that boy" Tecna said
"Well it aint gonna be me" I said
"Was Christmas still fun though?" Layla asked
"Yeah. They were kind of upset in the beginning- Melanie was murderous actually- but then it went okay. Melanie got me the greatest present ever. She got me this huge art set. It probably cost her a fortune" I said
"Oh rich people" Musa said
I laughed, high fiving her.
All of a sudden Tecna jumped up.
"Oh! I have presents for everyone" Tecna said running to her room
Musa jumped up.
"I have presents too!"
We all ran to our room to get our presents out.
"More presents? Christmas equals happy Layla" Layla said
We all laughed
Musa and I went into our room each taking out 5 presents from our bags. We walked back into the living room and placed all of them on the counter.
"Here's one Bloom, and one for Flora…" Musa started to hand out her gifts.
I gave each of my gifts out to everyone. We all sat, opening our gifts.
"Flora, these shoes are so cute" I said holding up the red high heeled boots she got for me.
"Those are cute. Good one Flo" Bloom said
"Borrowing them" Musa sang
I rolled my eyes with a laugh.
"Layla! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!" Tecna exclaimed hugging Layla
Layla laughed.
"What did she get you?" I asked
"A new laptop" Tecna said holding it up
"Well way to go Layla, how are we supposed to top that" Musa asked
"I got it because Tecna was complaining about her old one" Layla said
"How did you afford it?" I asked dumbfounded
"I've been saving the money I make on my part time job" Layla said
"Layla, you didn't have to do this" Tecna said
"Oh don't even start with that. Just accept the present" Layla said
We all laughed at Layla's bluntness.
"Bloom! This is so pretty" I said holding up the dress she got for me. It was cream, long sleeved, and tight fitting.
"I saw it and said, yup, that is so Stella" Bloom said
I thanked her, pulling her in for a hug.
"Borrowing it" Musa sang again
We all laughed.
We finished opening up all of our presents. Tecna got me a cute jacket, Layla got me a new bag, and Musa got me- and this one's creative- a year supply of Hershey bars! (She knows me so well!)
We made hot chocolate and sat on the couch with blankets, watching some movies. Afterwards Tecna and Bloom went to call their boyfriends so Layla, Musa, Flora, and I played cards in the kitchen.
"What are you gonna wear tonight?" Musa asked me as Layla dealed her in
"I don't know" I said with a shrug
"Wear something hot so you can be all like, yes fool that's what you missed, to Brandon" Layla said
We all laughed.
"I dare you to call him and ask if boys like short tight dresses" Musa said
I laughed, shaking my head and turning red.
"No way" I said
"Oh come on. Where's fearless Stella" Flora asked
"If she won't do it, I will" Musa said taking her phone out
"Don't you dare" I said
She hit Brandon's name on the contact list.
"I cannot believe you're doing this" I said shaking my head
The 3 of us watched as Musa waited for him to pick up.
"Hello?" We heard Brandon's deep voice on the other end
"Hi Brandon it's Musa, Stella's friend-" Musa started
We waited a few seconds.
"Hello?" Musa asked…"Hello?"
She looked at her phone.
"Son of a bitch, he hung up on me" Musa said
We all started laughing hysterically.
"Rejected!" We screamed through our laughs
"No way, I'm calling him back" She said
I was starting to tear up from laughing as she dialed again.
"He ignored my call!" She screamed
We laughed even harder.
"Okay, you know what..." She started to grumble as she dialed another number
"Hey Riven, can you do me a favor?"
I looked at Layla and Flora, all of us with our eyebrows raised.
"Are you with Brandon at the moment?" She asked
She looked at us and smirked.
"You don't say. Do you mind just handing this over to him?" She asked
We heard Riven say, "Sure", then a few seconds passed.
"What do you want?" We heard Brandon's annoyed tone.
"Can we please talk about this? Do you not like me or something?" Musa asked
We started laughing
"I'm busy" Brandon said
"Wait! Wait! Dude we gotta talk about this. Am I annoying to you-"
"Is there a purpose to this or are you just calling to say hi?" Brandon asked
"Oh right actually I do have to ask you something-" Musa wiggled her eyebrows at us.
"Okay" He said bored
"I'm doing a survey. Typically do men like it when girls wear tight short things?" She asked
We started laughing hysterically. Layla fell off her chair! Flora tried to help her up but ended up on the floor too.
"Goodbye Musa- oh and you can tell Stella that if she really wanted to know the answer to that she could have just asked me directly" He said, and you could hear the smirk in his voice
"Uh…okay, I'll be sure to tell her you said so" Musa said looking at me.
I looked at her confused as she put the phone down. Suddenly, she collapsed in laughter.
"What did he say?" I asked
"He knew! He knew!" She screamed
"Knew what?" I asked
"He told me to tell you that if you really wanted to know you should have just asked him directly" Musa said through laughter
I looked at her, my mouth going open, but then I just continued laughing. I would have been mad, but I couldn't help it- it was just so damn funny!
Bloom and Tecna came in.
"What did we miss?" Bloom asked as the 2 looked down at us on the floor laughing
"Don't even ask" I said wiping my tears away
"The party starts in like 2 hours, so I think we should probably see what we're going to wear" Bloom said
We all nodded getting up.
"My sides hurt" I moaned, still laughing a bit
Flora, Layla, and Musa nodded in agreement.
Musa and I went into our room, going to our closets.
"What should I wear?" I asked, because I really had no clue.
"Well since we've started this little game with Brandon I say you actually go in something tight and short" She said
I narrowed my eyes.
"I don't know…" I said
"Oh come on! Please? For me?" She pleaded
"I wonder what he'd say" I said
"Yes! That's the spirit! Now let's think, where can we find something short and tight" Musa said
We looked at each other.
"To Bloom's closet" We said together.
Out of all of us Bloom has probably the most clothes. If ever you need to find something it's always straight to Bloom's closet.
"Bloomy" I sang going into their room.
"You want something" Bloom said
Musa and I laughed.
"We need to borrow something" I said
"Why didn't you just say so, take whatever you want" She said, pulling out the dress she wanted to wear.
"Okay, we need short and tight, can you help us out?" Musa asked
She narrowed her eyes.
"Why?" She asked
"Because we're going to make Brandon look like a fool" I said
"Make Brandon look like a fool? This sounds interesting" Layla called from her room that was right next door.
Bloom smiled evilly, going into her closet.
"Let's see..."She said going through her closet
Layla and Flora joined us in the room to see what was going on.
"How about this?" Bloom asked holding up a little red dress.
"No way!" I shouted shaking my head
"Yes way! This is perfect!" Musa said taking it.
"No way" I repeated
"Why?" She asked, hands on hip
"Because if I wear that Brandon isn't going to be the one looking like a fool, I am" I said
"You'll look good Stella, don't worry" Bloom said
"But…but it's cold outside" I said, starting to get nervous about this little plan
"So you'll wear tights" Layla said
"And you can wear those shoes Flora bought you" Tecna said
"Good idea Tec" Musa said
We all went to get dressed. Musa made me put the dress on- embarrassing, but it is what we were looking for. It was tight fitting, long sleeves, and it went right below my thighs. I've never worn something so inappropriate before. If my Dad ever saw me like this I'd probably be dead.
"But wait! What about when I go home tonight? My Dad cant see me like this" I said after putting the dress on.
"So here's what we'll do. When I drive you home tonight we can stop at my house and you can put on something more appropriate" Musa said
Musa was going to drive all of us home tonight instead of taking the train. Most of the students were doing what we were doing, coming back for the party then going back home. Of course Brandon won't be- jerk.
I put black printed tights on, then zipped up the high heeled boots Flora got me.
"Want me to do your make-up?" Flora asked
I nodded, sitting down. Flora is probably the only one I will ever trust to do my make-up. She never goes all out on make-up. She puts on just the right amount so that it's not too much but not too little.
Flora started putting on make-up for me. I left my hair as it was because I have no patience for curlers or irons.
"What time is it?" Flora asked
"We have like half an hour" I said
She nodded, then put the last finishing touches on my face.
"Perfect" She said
"Thank you" I said
Musa came in all dressed and ready. Her hair was curled and left out.
"You look so pretty!" She exclaimed, but it came out muffled because she was in the middle of eating a chocolate bar- my chocolate bar!
"Hey!" I said
"I got you a year supply for a reason" She said, food still in her mouth
"Can I have a bite at least?" I asked
"No way! You could uhhh…ruin the dress" She said
I narrowed my eyes
"Chocolate stealer" I said
She laughed
The other girls came out, all ready.
"Wooo! Party!" Layla said
Musa put her chocolate down and started dancing with Layla. I started to dance with them.
"Save it for the party you guys" Bloom said with a laugh.
"Sorry, we cant contain ourselves" Layla said
"We weren't voted party animals in high school for nothing, am I right?" Musa said
"Since when were we voted party animals?" I asked with a laugh
"Since…since I said so!" She declared
"Okay then!" Layla and I said together
Tecna checked her phone.
"We should go now. Timmy said they were going now too" Tecna said
"Wait! You guys aren't going to ditch me for your boyfriends are you?" I asked
"No…we'll take Stella intervals" Musa said
I looked at her.
"Kidding" She said
"Don't worry, we wont leave you stranded" Flora said
We started to put our jackets on. I put on the jacket Tecna got me- black leather. I wrapped a knit scarf around my neck, and put on gloves. Even though we were going to a party it was still freaking 10 degrees outside.
"Where's the party going to be?" I asked as we walked out of the dorm. All around us girls and guys were leaving for the party, dressed in nice clothes.
"I don't know, I'll go ask" Bloom said, walking off to talk to someone
"Oh, by the way guys, no drinking tonight. I know it's tempting and all, *cough* Musa, but we have to drive home, *cough* Musa, so it would be irresponsible of us, *cough* Musa" Tecna said
"I can control myself!" Musa cried
We all laughed.
"Need I remind you off the first day of college?" I asked
"Oh please, you were way worse" Musa said
"I was n- okay, maybe I was. But I was- yeah I have no argument for that one" I said
"Thank you! I think we all know who to be looking out for tonight" Musa said pointing to me
I narrowed my eyes, then laughed, rolling my eyes.
Bloom came back.
"It's on the roof" Bloom said
"That's so cool" I said as we made our way to the roof.
"But wait, does that mean it's outside?" Flora asked
"Yup" Bloom said
"What genius came up with that idea?" Musa asked, as we went up the last flight of stairs.
"It'll be fun! I think it's snowing!" I said happily
We got outside and I was right, it was snowing. It was actually really beautiful outside. They set up Christmas lights so it was easy to see in the dark.
"Let's take off our jackets" I said excited to dance
"But we're outside, it's freezing" Bloom shivered
"If you dance you'll create body heat" I said
I took my jacket, scarf, and gloves off, freezing to death. I waited, shivering for everyone to take off their jackets. I grabbed Musa and Layla and pulled them to the middle of the dance floor.
"Quick! Body heat!" I said as we all shivered
It was actually pretty funny.
The music was blasting and there were tables set up with alcohol out on it. It's like it was telling kids to get drunk. I made sure to keep Musa away from THAT table. There were already kids that were drunk, and they were pretty funny. They were like tripping over themselves while dancing.
I started to feel a bit warmer as we continued to dance.
"Hey" Riven and Nabu waved at us.
"Hey!" Musa said hugging Riven, placing a kiss on his lips. Layla did the same. I looked away.
"Awkward" I sang, more to myself.
"Hey Stella, that was a nice little call earlier" Riven teased
"He told you!?" I asked
He nodded him and Nabu laughing.
"That idiot- ps. It was Musa's idea"
"Layla's idea" Musa said
We all laughed again.
"Well you look great, all 3 of you" Nabu said
"Thanks" I said
The other 2 thanked him too.
"Where's Bloom and the others. Sky, Helia, and Timmy were just looking for them" Riven said
"Over there" Musa said pointing.
He nodded.
"Sky!" He called over the blasting music.
Sky turned around.
Riven pointed over to where Bloom, Flora and Tecna were. Sky nodded, then went with Helia and Timmy.
We started to dance, Bloom, Flora, Tecna, Sky, Timmy, and Helia joining us soon after. It was a lot of fun. The DJ was hilarious.
After a while I walked with Musa to the drink table- water only of course. We were panting from all our dancing. It was about a half an hour to midnight.
"Well, well, well, look who's all grown up"
I turned around and saw Mackenzie staring at me mockingly. She looked stunning, way better than I did. I'm not just saying that because I'm a girl and it's the stereotype thing to say, but really, she was gorgeous. So unfair….
She was wearing a black dress that was fitted. She wore high stiletto black shoes, and her hair was done beautifully.
I narrowed my eyes.
"Obviously not you. What are you 5?" Musa asked
"No, I just love teasing Stella. It's so funny" Mackenzie said
I rolled my eyes.
"You secretly like me don't you. You just pretend like you hate me because Brandon does the same" I said playfully
She half smiled.
"I don't hate you Stella. Hate is a strong word. You're…tolerable I suppose"
"Really?" I asked, surprised
"Of course, how else am I supposed to have fun?" She asked
There it is again.
"You've been hanging around Brandon too long" I said
She shook her head.
"Honestly coming from you that's a bit ironic isn't it. Considering you lived together for quite some time" Mackenzie said
I nodded.
"I guess it is ironic" I said
"Well I should probably go. They say talking to people who aren't intelligent rubs off on you and I don't want to take any chances" She said
"I'm willing to look passed that and be the bigger person. Happy New Years Mackenzie" I said
"Happy New Years" She said then gracefully walked back. I watched as she went, knowing who she would be going back to. When I saw him it kind of took my breath away. I haven't seen him in a while so it's almost like I forgot how handsome he actually was. He was sitting at a table, surrounded by some girls and a few guys. They were talking and they all looked really intelligent and good looking. Oh man, it's like high school all over again! It's like Class A is coming back to haunt me only with more attractive people! Ahhhh!
Brandon looked up when Mackenzie sat down. He smiled at her, helping her with the 2 drinks she brought. He caught my eyes and smirked. I blushed, looking away quickly.
"Stella!"
I turned around and saw Casey. I smiled immediately, waving. There was something about Casey that always lightens up my mood.
"Hey" I said hugging him, completely forgetting about Brandon and his stupid "Class A"
"You look great" He said, looking down at my dress.
"Thanks" I said, turning a little red
"Where have you been? I haven't seen you in a while" He said
"Just around. I just got back from home, did you go home for the holidays?" I asked
"What?" He asked, unable to hear me
"Did you go home for the holidays?!" I asked louder
"Come here!" He called laughing. He took my hand and guided me toward a table by the edge of the roof. There was a big railing around the roof so it was safe. We could look down and see everything, which was pretty cool.
"What did you say?" He asked with a laugh, leaning in so he could hear.
"I asked if you went home for the holidays" I said with a laugh
"Oh yeah. Little Johnny's been asking about you" He said nudging me playfully
I laughed
"Little Johnny? I'd barely call John little. He's 19" I said
"He'll always be little Johnny to me" He said
I smiled.
"What does he ask?" I asked
"Oh you know, standard questions. Phone number, dorm number, social security number" He said
My eyes widened. Yup, same old John Freedmen.
"That's weird, I don't remember John being so good at math" I said after hearing all the numbers
Casey laughed
"You know he doesn't mean to be…"
"Stalkerish?" I asked
"That's the word I'm looking for" Casey
"Yeah, I know John means well. He'll find somebody someday that's going to make him very happy….that somebody is just not me" I said
Casey smiled.
"That is the nicest breakup I've ever heard" He said, though I wasn't sure if he was being sarcastic.
Casey took my hand, suddenly. I looked at him confused.
"Stella you know how I feel about you, right?" He said
"Uhhh…not exactly" I said
"If John wasn't so…attached to you, you know I would date you in a heart beat, right?" He said
My eyes widened. I never even considered that. He felt bad for John….that's why he didn't going out with me again after that one date. That's so sweet actually. Casey really is a sweet guy. He's so caring of other people's feelings. He really is the opposite of Brandon.
"Actually, I didn't know that at all. That's so sweet of you to consider your brother" I said sincerely
"What am I supposed to do? If I ever brought you home as a girlfriend he would be crushed" Casey said
I nodded in understanding.
"Okay everybody! We're going to start our countdown to New Years!" The person who organized the party said into the microphone. We all clapped.
"10! 9! 8! 7! 6! 5! 4!,"
Couples went to each other, preparing for the big cliché New Years kiss. I looked and saw Musa and Riven were already one step ahead of the game. Bloom and Sky got together, Tecna and Timmy, Helia and Flora, Layla and Nabu, and all of the other couples got together too.
I looked at Casey who looked at me with his confident eyes. I smiled nervously, feeling a little awkward.
"3! 2! 1! HAPPY NEW YEARS!" Everybody screamed
Casey pulled me forward.
"I cant really kiss you because of the little situation, but I'll give you this, "He kissed my cheek, "as a sign that you should wait for me" He said
I gulped, feeling the place he kissed. All around us couples were making out, like full fledged making out, if not worse. And here I was freaking out over a cheek kiss.
He smiled with a laugh.
"I guess that means I just gave you your first kiss…in a sense" He said
I froze.
"W..what?" I stuttered
"You told me you've never had a boyfriend, right" He said
"R..right" I said
But that wasn't my first kiss. Not even close to my first kiss. I took a small glance over to Brandon, getting really red in the face. Much to my surprise…he was staring right back. I turned even redder. Did he…did he see that? Part of me hopes he didn't…and part of me wishes he did.
I stood up, smiling at Casey. I placed another kiss on his cheek.
"Maybe if John finds a girlfriend" I said
He nodded.
"I have to go though, my friend is driving me home" I said
He stood up.
"Don't leave yet, the party's just getting started" He said
"We have to get home before 3am" I said
"It's only midnight" He said
"I know but-"
"Why don't you tell your friends they can go on without you and I'll go home with you on the train" He said
I smiled.
"I want to say yes so bad but…do the trains even run that late?" I asked
"Of course they do" He said with a laugh
I looked at his hopeful face.
"Okay…I guess. I'll just go tell Musa" I said
He nodded.
I walked over to Musa who was already walking toward me.
"Hey! Oh my gosh, that was so much fun" She said panting
I nodded in agreement.
"Did you talk to Brandon?" She asked
"Well…not really" I said
"What!? There goes our plan" She said
"I was talking to Casey Freedmen the whole time" I said
"New plan! New plan! Casey Freedmen is equally hot as Brandon so either way the dress paid off" She said high fiving me
I laughed
"We're going now, so go get your stuff" Musa said holding up her keys
"Actually, about that. Casey wants me to stay a bit later so you guys can go ahead without me and I'll take the train home with Casey" I said
"Are you sure? I don't know if I feel comfortable just leaving you like this. College boys have different minds than high school boys" Musa said
"Musa!" I said
She laughed
"Okay, okay. But seriously, are you sure?" She asked
I nodded
"Totally" I said
"Well okay. But call me when you get home" Musa said
"Then we can talk all about how you were getting to know Riven's mouth oh so well just now" I said
Musa laughed
"See ya" She said waving
"Bye!" I called
I wiped some snow out of my face, walking back toward Casey.
"We're good" I said
He smiled.
"Great. This just gives me more time to be with you" He said flirtatiously
I blushed, smiling.
We talked for a long time, until almost 2am. He was so easy to hold a conversation with, never an awkward moment of silence. There were still a lot of people there, mostly drunk. The snow was picking up, and it was getting really cold. My hands were so numb from being frost bitten.
"We should probably go soon. Train stations shut down sometimes from snow" He said
"What?" I asked suddenly
"Yeah but it's no big deal. The snow isn't supposed to get bad for a few hours and we'll be back home in about an hour and a half if we leave now" He said
I breathed.
"Oh good" I said, "You had me worried there. My Dad's expecting me home tonight. I don't want him to think I'm irresponsible or anything" I said
Casey nodded, the 2 of us standing. I put my jacket, scarf, and gloves back on feeling a bit warmer.
"Come on, I'll take you home" Casey said
"Actually I think I'll take her home"
I turned around and saw Brandon, Mackenzie standing a few feet behind him.
"That's cool, I've got it" Casey said
Brandon was staring straight into Casey's eyes.
"She's quite the handful, wouldn't want her to cause trouble" He said, remaining his composed self. It was as if I wasn't even there.
My mouth flew open.
"Rude!" I said
Brandon matched Casey's height, maybe a few inches taller. Both of them looked at each other as if they were playing football or something. Casey turned to me.
"Actually Brandon, I think I'll go with Casey" I said, walking passed him. Brandon grabbed my wrist.
"You're kind of my responsibility" He said. Without a word he started to walk toward the exit.
"Wait! Brandon!" I tried to pull my hand away, but he kept walking. I don't know how but he still managed to look cool while doing it.
I turned around, looking at Casey. He looked so confused.
"It's alright. His mom put him up to this! She doesn't want me to-"I tried to explain but the door already shut.
Casey turned to Mackenzie.
"His mom….he…I am so confused" Casey said
"Oh, you don't know?" Mackenzie asked
"What?" Casey asked
"Those 2 used to live together"
Casey raised an eyebrow.
"Let me explain…."
I finally pride my hand away from Brandon, walking beside him. I made sure to be a good few inches away. I shivered as the snow thickened.
"Why would you wear a dress like that if you knew it would be freezing?" He asked
I looked away.
"I don't have to talk about my wardrobe choice with you Brandon" I said angrily
Brandon raised an eyebrow.
"You're mad?" He asked
"You just embarrassed me in front of all those people, not to mention Casey" I said
Brandon rolled his eyes.
"What?" I asked
"Nothing at all" He said
I stopped walking.
He turned around.
"Stella what are you doing?"
"I refuse to keep walking if you don't tell me why you just rolled your eyes at me" I said
"Stella this is so stupid. Like worse than Stella level stupid, this is Musa level stupid" He said
"Stop insulting my friends" I said
He rolled his eyes.
"Would you stop that?!" I yelled angrily
"Stella, it's snowing like crazy. If you don't move it we'll never make it to the train station" He said
"Auugghh!" I cried, then began walking again
"Honest to god Stella, you are completely unbelievable" He said shaking his head
"You are one insult away from getting kicked in the nuts my friend" I said
"Somebody's snappy" He said
I ignored him, walking as fast as I could. We passed Brandon's building on the way. We were only 2 blocks away from the train station.
"It's so cold" I cried
"Maybe if you covered some skin you'd be less cold" Brandon said
"Excuse me? Who do you think you are?" I asked as my teeth chattered
Brandon ignored me, continuing to walk. The wind speed was picking up.
Suddenly a police car pulled up beside us. I looked at it nervously, as the cop pulled down the window.
"You kids should get home" The officer said
"We have to get to the train station" I said
"Trains aren't running, winds too fast" The officer said
I looked at Brandon, eyes wide.
"Thank you officer" Brandon said calmly
"Do you need a lift?" He asked
"Yes that would be great" Brandon said
Brandon opened the door, letting me in first, then getting in beside me.
"What am I gonna do?! My Dad is gonna kill me" I whispered
"Your Dad? How about my Mom?" He whispered
"What do we do?" I whispered
"Calm down, I'll handle this" He whispered
"Where to?" The officer asked
"Right up the block for me and then the campus for-"
"Shit! I don't have my dorm key" I said
Brandon smacked his forehead.
"Why not?" He asked
"I've been using Musa's since I'm always with her"
"Stella you are the biggest idiot of a person-"
"Where am I going?" The officer asked
"Right up the street by those apartment buildings" Brandon directed
"How am I going to get in to my dorm?" I asked
"Does the secretary have an extra key or something?" He asked
"Well yeah but she wont be there at this hour" I said
"Come with me to my apartment and we'll figure out what to do from there" He said
I nodded, calming down.
The officer went into the parking lot of the building. We both got out.
"Thank you" Brandon said
"Thank you so much" I said
"Alright, stay safe kids. The storms going to pick up so be careful" The officer said
"Thank you" I called as he drove away
We went inside, getting into the elevator. It was awkwardly quiet as we went up. Last time I was here I stayed in Brandon's apartment too. I don't really remember it much though because of my state at the time. I wonder what went on that night.
As the thoughts went through my mind I started to blush.
We got to the floor then walked out. Quietly we walked down the hallway. He took out his key and opened his apartment door.
"See, that's why we carry keys" He said
I glared. As I was about to walk in I suddenly felt nervous.
"W…wait. If I call Riven or Sky I'm sure they have an extra key in their mailbox or something. Maybe I can stay in their apartments" I stuttered
Brandon smirked, leaning in so our eyes met. I froze.
"What? Are you afraid to stay in the same apartment as me?" He asked
"N..no!" I said
"Good because last time you weren't afraid" He said walking in. My eyes went wide, my mouth open.
I walked in, quietly shutting the door behind me. Brandon had walked into the living room, taking his phone out.
"What are you doing?" I asked
"Calling my Mom" He said
"At 3am?" I asked
"You're not home yet, she's up" He said
I nodded.
Suddenly I heard a screech on the other end. It was Melanie. "BRAANNDDOONNN!" She screeched. Brandon had to move the phone away from his ear.
"Yeah mom, yes she's here" He said
"Yes, you can calm down" He said
"Well what would you like me to do with her?" He asked looking at me
I glared and he smirked.
"1 night, that's it" He said
"Don't start freaking out. Don't go off telling everybody, okay? This doesn't mean anything" Brandon said
Melanie must have started going all match maker on him again.
"Yes. Yes. Mom she's fine" He said
"Bye"
He hung up the phone looking at me. I just stood there, wondering what to do. He shook his head.
"What will I do with you?" He said
"This isn't my fault. Well…maybe it is. I probably should have went home with Musa" I said
"You think?" He asked
I glared.
"Well you don't have to be mean about it" I said
He sighed.
"Go take a shower, your clothes are sopping wet" He said
"And what do you suppose I change into?" I asked
"You can borrow something" He said
"From you? I'd rather freeze" I said stubbornly
"Yeah well if I send you home with a cold I'll get murdered, so like it or not you're changing" He said
I crossed my arms, stomping toward the bathroom. He came up behind me.
"Unless of course you'd like me to change you" He said in my ear. I could feel his breath on my ear, making me shudder.
I froze, my face going red.
"N..no way! Who do you think you are?" I asked walking away quickly
I could hear his laughter behind me. He was having too much fun with this. He was getting joy out of making me look like a fool!
I slammed the bathroom door behind me. Just as I was about to take of my dress something hit me.
I walked out of the bathroom, still embarrassed from before. I walked into the living room where he sat on the couch reading.
He looked up.
"Yes?" He asked
"Can I…can I have a change of clothes" I said looking away, annoyed.
"What's the magic word?" He asked
I glared.
"Now you're pushing it" I said
He got up going into his bedroom. I waited outside his bedroom, nervous to walk in. It was then that I realized it was the only bedroom in the apartment. I felt my hands begin to sweat. Suddenly I heard Musa's voice in my head, "I don't know if I feel comfortable just leaving you like this. College boys have different minds than high school boys". My heart began to pick up. Suddenly I was snapped out of my trance when a pair of pajama pants and a t-shirt were thrown at my face.
I looked at him dumbfounded.
"Did you just hit me with clothing?" I asked
"Yes, and may I just say you can proudly bare the name butter fingers from now on" He said
I glared picking them off and going back to the bathroom. I looked in the mirror, wiping off my make-up. I took of my dress, hanging it to dry. I got in the shower making it extra hot. It felt so good on my frost bitten body. My shower must have lasted for at least half an hour. I got out drying my hair and putting it up in a bun. Then I put on the pants and the t-shirt, both extremely baggy. I had to tie the pants super tight or they'd be falling down my butt. The shirt was really baggy and long on me. They smelled like Brandon.
Is that weird for me to say? That I know Brandon's scent. It's kind of like cinnamon but with a bit of a zing. It smelt really good. It was really comfortable too. I walked out, joining Brandon on the couch.
"Now, is that so bad?" He asked mockingly.
"Oh shut up" I said
"Well, you look hot" He said
My heart stopped. It wasn't until I looked at his face that I realized he was joking.
"Maybe I should send a picture of you to your little boyfriend" He teased
"Little? Casey is 2 years older than you" I said
"And yet I still got farther than he did. A kiss on the cheek? I kissed you for real and it didn't even mean anything" He said
I looked down, clenching my fists. Ouch. I didn't even mean anything? Ouch.
I ran my fingers through my wet hair.
"I need my hair brush" I said
"Consider yourself lucky you're even here, don't start whining" He said
I narrowed my eyes.
"Consider myself lucky? Wow I'm so privileged to be here. I'm not worthy" I said in a monotone voice
"That's the spirit" He stood up.
"Where are you going?" I asked, standing
"To take a shower. I'd say you can come but I don't think my mom or your face would appreciate it" He said
My hand flew to my face.
"If it got any redder people would mistake you for a tomato" He said teasingly
I glared.
"You're such a pervert. Honestly" I said going to the kitchen. I took out my phone and called Musa, telling her what was going on. She freaked out and called Bloom who called Flora who called Tecna who called Layla, and now everyone knows I'm here. Woopididoo for me!
Suddenly, my stomach grumbled. I checked to make sure Brandon was still in the shower then I started to raid his cabinets for something- anything to eat.
"Come on, come on" I whispered to myself as I hurriedly looked through the cabinets and fridge.
"Aha! Jackpot!" I whispered to myself when I saw a can of squeezable cheese. Who doesn't love squeezable cheese, right?
I started to spray it on my finger then lick it off. Oh what the heck? I picked the can up and started pouring it into my mouth straight from the nozzle.
"Mmmmm"
I heard the bathroom door open. I quickly stuck it back in the fridge trying to swallow all the cheese down.
"Stella?" He called
"Mhm" I said, my mouth full.
I quickly swallowed it down, almost choking.
"What are you doing?" He asked
"I just called Musa" I said
"Okay. Well you can go sleep in my bed" He said almost naturally, then turned around. I raised my eyebrows, going after him.
"Where are you sleeping?" I asked
"Couch" He said, putting a pillow and blanket down on the couch.
"No way! You take your bed, I'll take the couch" I said
"Okay" He said, not even arguing. He took the pillow and started walking toward his room. I wasn't really expecting him just to say okay so easily.
He got in his bed, pulling the covers over himself. I stood in the door frame looking at him. He sighed, getting up.
"Can I help you?" He asked
"You're just going to let me sleep on the couch?" I asked, crossing my arms
"You just said you wanted to"
"That's just what people say! They don't actually mean it!" I said
"Then don't say it" He said laying back down
I walked over to the side of his bed, taking a pillow and smacking him.
"You're the boy! You should be the one sleeping on the couch" I said hitting him.
"Holy crap Stella, fine" He said
He got up, snatching the pillow out of my hand. I smiled, getting in the bed. He started walking toward the living room.
"Wait"
He turned around, anger in his face.
"What now?" He asked
"Well now I just feel bad"
"Holy shit! You know what? We'll both sleep in the bed. How about that?!" He said getting in the other side of the bed. My eyes grew wide.
"No! It's okay! I'll sleep on the couch!" I tried to get up.
"Stella Solaria, if you move one more time I will put you out on the street. It is 3:30 in the morning. Go. To. Sleep" He said in his serious tone.
I gulped laying back down. Brandon turned the lamp off, so now it was dark. My heart was beating so fast- I hope he didn't hear it. There's no way I can fall asleep like this! He's too close! I can feel his hand on the edge of my shirt! Musa was right! Musa was right! I don't like this!
I turned over so I faced away from him. He was a college boy now. I wouldn't be surprised if he made a move on me.
"Stella, calm down. I can hear your heart beat from all the way over here" Brandon said
My eyes grew wider. Thank goodness it was dark. If he saw my face…
"S..s..sorry" I stuttered. I covered my mouth. Stop stuttering!
Brandon turned over, facing me, a smirk evident on his face.
"Don't be sorry. I don't blame you. A lot can happen in just one night" He said, his teasing voice returning
I stayed silent.
"I mean, two college students, in the same bed, empty apartment, things could happen" He said running his thumb along my lips. I was shaking, I was sure of it.
Brandon leaned in, getting closer.
"No" I said softly, turning my head.
He started laughing turning over. Once I got calm again I glared, smacking his back.
"Why are you laughing?!" I screamed
"You're so serious. I'm not gonna pull anything" He said
I angrily sat back, looking up at the ceiling.
"You're right though. You have a very open chance here. Any man would happily take it and yet all you do it tease. Could it be that you don't have enough experience or courage to do anything. Could it be that I'm not the only one scared right now. I don't think you're as cool as people say. Any man would jump on the chance to have a woman in their bed and yet, you just sit there. Could it be that you're…gay?" I said. The last part came out quietly
Suddenly, so fast I didn't even realize it was happening, Brandon turned over on top of me, pinning my arms to my side.
"Is this perhaps a challenge? It's almost as if you want me to do something" He said
I gulped, my head shaking no.
"Well I'll tell you one thing, I'm 100 percent straight and 100 percent man. Maybe it's you who aren't woman enough" He said looking into my eyes
My mouth flew open.
"Y..You…"
"Yes?" He asked in a tone that made me want to rip him apart.
"You really are a little pervert. You…like to do these things to me. I don't even know why. Sometimes you're mean to me, calling me unintelligent and not a woman, " I said, a bit or hurt in my voice, "And then the next second you're on top of me kissing me, teasing me, making me think these things" I said
"And yet, you haven't pushed me off yet, have you?" He asked
"I never try anymore, because whenever I do you tighten your hold on me" I said
He smirked.
"Casey would never do this to me" I whispered
"What did you say?" He asked
"I said Casey would never do this to me" I said more firmly
Brandon looked at me.
"He's kind to me. He would never do something without my desire to do it. He's gentle and he cares about me" I said
"And yet you haven't gotten so much as a kiss on the cheek from him" He said
I narrowed my eyes.
"I'd rather that then a kiss that 'means nothing'" I said
"Is that so?" He asked
I nodded
"I don't think you mean it. I think that a kiss from meant a lot more to you than a kiss from that guy" he said
"That guy has a name, and you're wrong" I said angrily
"No I'm not. You're in love with me, don't deny it" He said
"You're just feeling threatened by Casey" I said
"Threatened? By a wuss like that? Get over yourself Stella" He said
"You are so feeling threatened. I used to give you all my time, but now I give it to Casey. I have no interest in you anymore" I said
"No interest?"
I nodded
"None at all?" He said
"None" I repeated, anger in my eyes.
"Then I guess this wont mean anything" He leaned down and gently kissed my cheek.
I froze, my mouth slightly open in surprise. My eyes were a bit wider than before. Brandon smirked then leaned in toward my ear.
"He didn't give you that sort of reaction, did he?" He asked. I could feel his lips graze my ear lightly as he spoke. I stayed silent.
He started to kiss my neck, going lower and lower.
"B..Brandon" I breathed. I tried to push him off, but as I said before he tightened his grip on me.
"Tell me Stella. He didn't get that sort of reaction, did he?" He said
I shut my eyes, my heart beating fast. I refused to give him an answer. If I gave him the wrong answer he would continue. If I gave him the right answer he would stop- but I'd also be really embarrassed.
"I wont stop until you tell me" He whispered, continuing to place kisses along my collarbone.
I clenched my fists.
He came up, running his thumb along my bottom lip.
"You can stop me at any second" He said leaning in closer.
Just as he was about to kiss me. No. Not again.
"Y..yes" I breathed in a quiet voice.
"What was that?" He asked
"Yes" I said
He smirked.
"So what you're saying is, you haven't gotten over me after all" He said
I shut my eyes. At least it's ov-
Suddenly his lips were on mine. My eyes stayed shut as I felt his familiar lips on mine. They were soft. He pulled away, looking me in the eyes.
"You said you would stop" I said through breathes
"You said you were over me. I guess we're all liars tonight" He said
I looked down, my heart still beating. Suddenly, he started laughing, as if something was hilariously funny. I couldn't even find a voice to ask why, so I just stayed silent. Brandon dropped down next to me, turning so his back was to me. We were silent and still for a few minutes.
"Stella" He said
I cleared my throat, finding my voice.
"Yes?" I asked
"Is there a reason you tasted like squeezable cheese?"
So there you have it. It's like, really long. But I actually really enjoyed writing this one.
