Hours later, after school...

Ryan's Point of View:

I was sitting next to Sharpay in the large theater while listening to Ms. Darbus's ideas for future productions as well as lowering the criteria of newcomers into the Drama club. I wasn't paying attention. Sharpay could handle this. She may not look it but she's wonderful when it comes to gathering information; especially when it comes to the art of acting and performing. I started to zone out.

I wish Ms. Darbus would stop talking. I really want to and hang out with Troy. Wait, why am I feeling so anxious to hang out with Troy? I mean, it's not like it's going to be a date or something. So why do I feel so giddy? I really need some time off, and that's all this is. We're just going to hang out and enjoy each other's company. That's all.

I felt someone hit my shoulder, it was Sharpay.

"Pay attention. She's talking about recommending us to a college that majors in the drama department." She whispered roughly into my ear.

I checked my watch to see that it was already 6:12. We were almost done. I propped my arm on my armrest and continued to think.

When he helped me up earlier, I felt a real connection. When he held my hand, it was more than physical connectivity but maybe an emotional connection? Nope, that can't be it. He's straight and has a girlfriend. Oh how I wished to be in her place right now. But why did he grab my shoulder, he didn't let go for so long. Is it possible that he could've been feeling the same way for me? Or was it just a friendly gesture that I'm misconstruing with the truth? I don't know. Maybe after tonight, I'll get my answer.

"C'mon Ry, we got to go." I shot back to reality as Sharpay's voice rang through my ears.

I looked at the stage to see that Ms. Darbus was already putting her things into her purse. I quickly glanced at my watch, it was already 6:24. I'm going to be late. I got up from my seat and walked into the aisle with Sharpay. I tapped her on the shoulder to get her attention.

"What is Ry?" She looked a bit confused.

"I kind of have plans tonight. Do you think it's okay if you head home alone tonight? Unless you really need me." I pouted a little along with my signature puppy dog eyes. She pulled out her cell phone and started to dial a number.

"Zeke, come over tonight. Ryan has 'other' plans. Alright, see you then babe." Sharpay smiled and gave me a quick kiss on the cheek as she hugged me close.

"Be safe okay?" She whispered softly into my ear. I nodded with a smile.

We both exited the theater and waved each other goodbye. I checked my watch again. Crap! 6:28 already.

I made a dash for the gym entrance...

At the same time...

Troy's Point of View:

I felt so tired after having to do drills almost all practice. I managed to impress the team once again with my free throws and jump shots. I was used to everyone supporting me. It's not like I don't admire everyone's words of praise but after being on the team for so long, it gets annoying.

"Good job man." Chad came up and gave a few pats on the back before returning to his side of the court. I looked at the clock that was slowly blinking on the scoreboard. It was already 6:12. My dad, or should I say 'Coach.' should be blowing that whistle right about now.

As soon as I thought of it, Coach's whistle went off and that signaled all of us to hit the showers. I ran into the locker room with the rest of the teams and headed for my locker. Chad was already there, waiting up for me. I sat down o the bench and started spinning the numbers for my locker. Chad started to make conversation.

"It was a good practice today man. We're going to blow those West High Knights out of the water " I smiled and nodded in agreement as I got my locker open. I grabbed a white towel and started to strip down for the shower. I had just gotten my jersey off when Chad tapped me on the shoulder.

"You want to go get a burger after this? I'm starving. And it is Friday." I placed the towel on my shoulder.

"I'm sorry man. I already made plans." I responded.

"Oh, a date with Gabby huh? Way to go big boy." He slapped me playfully on the stomach, which kind of stung. Chad doesn't realize how strong he is sometimes. I headed towards the shower, took off my basketball shorts along with my boxers and started my cleansing period. As I started to rinse off all the sweat and signs of perspiration, thoughts started to pour into my mind.

Man, I can't wait to hang out with Ryan today. I wonder what we're going to do. Maybe we'll go to a movie and then get some ice-cream. Wait, what am I thinking? Movie? Ice-cream? It's not like I'm going on a date with him. Then why do I feel like smiling every time I think about him? No, this can't be. I'm straight. I'm in love with Gabriella. Or am I gay? And I like Ryan Evans? No way. I'm not gay. I bet he's not gay either. But then again, he loves to act. No, I'm just thinking stereotypes now. We're just going to hang out; like what two friends do. But are we really friends? I was just being nice by asking him to hang out with me. Man, I'm so confused.

I turned off my shower and dried myself off with my towel. I wrapped it around my waist. I headed towards my locker to get to my street clothes. The locker room was almost empty and in my aisle, all I saw was Chad who was already tying his street shoes. He looked at me as I went to my locker.

"What took you so long man?" He said as I slipped into my boxers and jeans.

"Nothing man. Just taking my shower." I got my deodorant and dabbed a bit under my arms. I threw it into my duffle bag.

"Oh playing with yourself huh? Talk about a serious case of "Gabriella Won't Give Any" syndrome." He started to laugh hysterically. I conked him on the head with my towel. I continued dressing with putting my jeans and shirt on.

"What? I was only kidding." I took my cologne and gave a few quick sprays against my shirt and neck. It was then I realized what time it was.

"Hey Chad, what time is it?" I asked.

"It's almost 6:30." He replied as he closed his locker.

"No way?!" I took out my cell phone and quickly turned it on. My clock read 6:28.

"Aww man, I got to go. I'll talk to you tomorrow alright?" I swiftly closed my locker and zipped up my duffle bag. I swung it around my shoulder as I ran out of the locker room.

"Man what is his problem? I got to follow him and find some answers." Chad said to himself as he headed towards the exit. A mischievous smirk splashed across his face.

He only had one goal in mind...

A/N: Teenage angst at its best.