Chapter 3-

"Hey, Taylor," Chad called.

She stopped and turned. "Hi, Chad."

He grinned. "Hi."

For a moment he just stood there.

"Did you need something?" Taylor prompted.

"Oh, yeah. Do you know what's up with Gabriella?" he asked with a frown. "Troy's all upset because she's been avoiding him."

Taylor frowned and tried to think of something to say. "Well, I have to get to class." She turned and began to go in the opposite direction, but Chad caught her arm.

"You know what's wrong, don't you?" he accused.

She sighed. "Yes, but Gabriella made me promise not to say anything."

"Come on, Taylor." He said.

She rolled her eyes. "Pleading won't help."

"Give me a hint," he smiled suddenly. "If I guess, you won't be telling me."

She laughed. "Fine. Someone warned her to stay away from Troy…."

Chad snapped his fingers. "Sharpay!"

Taylor turned and began to walk to her first class.

"Am I right?" Chad called.

"Remember, I didn't tell you." She said over her shoulder.

Chad grinned and headed off to find Troy.

……………………….

"Troy," Chad whispered.

Troy glanced to make sure the teacher's back was turned before looking at Chad. "What?" he whispered.

"Here," Chad tossed him a small note.

Troy stared at his friend, but caught the note and unfolded it.

I know why Gabriella's avoiding you. Sharpay told her to stay away from you….or else….

"Mr. Bolton." The teacher called.

He jerked upright. "Yes?"

She walked towards his desk. "Would you mind sharing?" she asked.

He bit his lip. Gabriella was sitting three rows over and Sharpay was two seats in front of him. "Of course," he replied. He started to hand the note to the teacher, but purposely dropped it. "Sorry, I'll get that." He said.

A few of his classmates snickered.

He stood to get the note and carefully tripped over the leg of his desk. A collective gasp went up as he hit the floor.

Stealthily, he slipped the note to Chad. Who snatched it up and tore it into pieces.

"Thank you for the performance, Mr. Bolton," the teacher said when he stood and brushed off his pants. "Please, take your seat."

When she turned and walked away, he and Chad exchanged a triumphant look.