Disclaimer: I don't own Gabriella Montez or her mother. Her mother may make the world's best brownies, but I really don't think Disney wants me eating them. Or using their characters without permission.

Gabriella Montez

New Year's Day 2006

10:56 a.m.

I scanned the dining hall, but there was no sign of him.

"What are you looking for, Sweetie?" my mom asked, trying to be helpful.

I sighed. "Oh, nothing."

She kept her eyes on me for a few more seconds, but I wasn't showing any more signs of distress, so she went back to piling food onto her plate.

I moved along the buffet line, not really interested in all the brunch selections. I ended up choosing eggs, toast, and some fruit. I was never able to eat my money's worth at a buffet. My mother should know this by now.

She should also know that I had absolutely no desire to come on this crazy vacation. She said it would be good for us to bond before we moved yet again. That plan had backfired spectacularly.

Neither of us ski, snowboard, or attempt otherwise sport-related activities, so coming here was kind of pointless. I spent the week catching up on my reading, and she spent the week going to every event the lodge offered, from singles' mixers to pottery classes. She invited me to every single one, but the last thing I felt like doing this week was being social, especially when I think about what I have to deal with next week. I'm going to have to start over at a whole new school, make all new friends, and probably have to leave again before my junior year is even over.

My mom has a great job; it's not her fault she has to move so much. I appreciate the sacrifices she's had to make to raise me on her own.

But I've had to sacrifice a lot, too, you know? I really hope that we're able to stay in Albuquerque until I graduate. I am resolved not to be this school's new "freaky math girl." My school in San Diego was torture. I need time to make a good impression, actually make friends I can keep, and maybe even get myself a few dates.

Up until last night I would have thought that last goal completely impossible. Guys do not notice shy, brainy girls like me.

Until Troy. I was really hoping he'd be here this morning. I scanned the dining area again, but there was no sign of him.

I'm not naïve; I know our meeting was just a one-time thing. I'm not expecting to ever see him again. It'll be a miracle if he actually does call me. I may not have experience with boys, but I do know that "I'll call you" rarely ever means just that.

But still, it felt really, really nice to be noticed. I think we had a connection. I've always loved to sing, but to find a guy whose voice harmonizes perfectly with mine is just so amazing. When we both stepped onto that stage, there really was magic in the air.

The only way I can describe it is…well, it was like kindergarten. I remember when I was that little, I'd meet someone and we'd instantly become best friends, even though we knew nothing about each other. When I stepped onto that stage with Troy, I felt like even though I didn't know his name yet, we were somehow connected. He's that special.

Even if I never see Troy again, I'm grateful to have had one perfect night with him.

"Where are you going?" My mom grabbed my elbow and steered me towards the nearest table.

I glanced around. I had been wandering away from the buffet. Oops. "Sorry, Mom. I was thinking."

"About…?" she prompted.

Usually, I tell my mom just about everything. But I couldn't bring myself to tell her about Troy. She'll probably try to talk me into calling him, and I can't do it. I can't be the one to call. I'll sound desperate.

"Nothing in particular. Just nervous about starting a new school, I guess."

"Oh, Sweetheart, I know it's going to be awkward at first, but you always find your way. I'm sure everyone in Albuquerque will love you!"

"I don't know about everyone, but I really hope I make a good first impression."

"You will. Just be yourself."

"You have to say this stuff because you're my mom."

She grinned. "No, I have to say this stuff because it's the truth."

I just bit into my toast and rolled my eyes. I really, really can't wait to just get the first day of school over with already. I have an entire week left to do nothing besides read…and hope that Troy calls.

Well, I guess it's not so bad. Maybe he really will call me. At least it'll give me something to look forward to if I concentrate on thinking about him.

As long as I don't have to think about my new high school all week, I don't really care what happens. Really.