He's a Tramp!

by ladybre01

James Tiberius Kirk! The promising student, the golden outcast, the handsome mofo, the player, the asshole. There was no way of mistaking him, he had a false sense of entitlement, and an ego so big you wonder how anyone else can fit in the same room as him. And apparently he's my new boyfriend. At least that's what my over-bearing father thinks. And I might just let him.

2. Chapter 2

Hey all! I know it's been a long time since the first chapter was posted and I'm kind of sorry about that. But to my credit, I did warn everyone in the first chapter that I was writing this on a whim. Never promising consistency with this. For those who have been with me for my other stories, you already know about my lack of consistent uploading problems. Lol, thank you for sticking with me anyway.

Shout out to My2BrownEyes for helping where you could. Even with having your own stories to edit and all that. Thank you so much!

A/N: I do not own any of the Star Trek character's or anything the falls in the Star Trek franchise. But I do own my OC and the situations I put them all in. Also, I took a different route with some of the new arrivals in this chapter. They aren't big changes, but there are changes.

Alrighty then! Onward to the next chapter! Hope you all like it! ^_^

---

I removed my arm from off my eyes. I blinked and all I could see was bright white spots. They danced around, and no matter where I looked, they'd follow.

"Oh God! I'm going blind." I said while I started looking around frantically, trying to clear my vision.

"I do doubt that is possible. Even with the head trauma you have sustained by hitting the ground. But at the speed you were going, I would suggest you go to the nurse's office. You may have a serious injury, colliding with my form is the equivalent of running into the side of a building." An emotionless voice chimed in.

"Damn it, Spock! What in the natural hell, were you doing in the middle of the hallway?" I asked. While I was trying to look around the spots, towards where I assumed Spock was standing.

"I was on my way to wake you up." His voice sound closer than before. I turned to the side, I thought he was at.

"Wait? How did you know that, I was sleeping?" I asked, as I felt his hand gently touch my neck.

"I believe your roommate, came up to me to ask me to get you." He started to rub his thumb, right behind my ear. Adding a little pressure, not too much to make it hurt.

"Freaking Helen." I'm not upset, like I thought I'd be. I had enough people infringing in on my life, I don't need any more. But, I'm glad she seemed to care enough to know, that Spock is a friend of mine.

Spock kept applying pressure to my head; I started to wonder what he was doing.

"Spock? What are you doing?" I felt a slight pop in my neck. Before the dance happy, psychedelic, spots disappeared.

"I observed your eyes were unfocused. And you seemed to be searching for my position. Even though, I have been right in front of you. I concluded that you were experiencing some unclear vision." Spock helped me to get back on my feet. I swayed a little, the back of my head started to sting.

"I would ask how you figured that to be the problem. But we'll end up late for class. And that would defeat the purpose of this concussion you've inflicted on me." I began to walk towards the classroom, with Spock next to me.

"I did not know you would be turning the corner at that moment. Nor did I expect to have you run into me at such-" Spock went on with his long complicated, explanation and I decided to stop him.

"Spock! It was a joke. I know it wasn't your fault, I shouldn't have been running through the halls like that. If it wasn't you that I ran into, I could've really hurt the both of us." I laughed at his weirdness.

He had his hands behind his back. Shoulders broad, perfectly square, he looks straight ahead never looking down. Detached confidence radiates off of him as he walks with long strides.

We walked the rest of the way in silence. But being friends with Spock as long as I have, one gets used to these things. I could tell that he was trying to sum me up. He was piecing together what caused me to run around the school, like bat out of hell. Without asking me, but I knew he would eventually.

As we walked into the room, we barely sat down as the bell rang. The teacher clapped her hands together and smiled at everyone.

"Alright, everyone! I bet you're all excited about today's closed book test." She was greeted by a round groans and other disagreeing noises.

"That's what I thought, just pure excitement. I have a surprise for you. There was something I didn't tell you guy's the other day. I made a little bet with myself, that if everyone would show up to class on time. I was going to change the closed book part of the test, to opened book." The room became dead quite, some people may have been holding their breath. We were all waiting to see if we made the requirements.

"And thanks to miss Ambrose, and Mr. Spock. You'll get to have an open book test. Go on and get started, don't talk too much. But, you can talk." People were staring at us. Thinking we were going to be the reason behind their hardship. Knowing some of them didn't even study, then the ones that did study, were so nervous as well.

I looked around to see some people giving me 'thumbs up' sign. I just gave them a nod to acknowledge it. I'm glad this test is an open book one, because I have enough things to worry about. Then having to remember some answer to a test. There was a light touch on my arm, and I knew who it was. So I wasn't bothered by it.

"Stella?" Spock asked and I turned to him slowly, after completing the fourth question.

"Yes, what's up Spock?" I watched his expressionless face, but warm dark chocolate eyes, which were evaluating mine in return.

"You have been quite reticent today. Is there something bothering you? Should I be concerned with your health?" Spock touched my cheek, while waiting for me to speak.

"My health is good as far as I'm aware of." I joked before going back to my test. I felt his eyes still on me. I waited for the next question, he would be voicing soon.

"You're not having any pains or discomfort?" Spock scanned my body, like he could actually see my pain. He can't, I don't think he can. I may have to ask him about that, later.

"No, Spock. I haven't felt anything wrong, nor have I felt any pain. But I am sitting, so I couldn't tell you." I continued on with my test. I was hoping, he didn't notice that I was avoiding his previous question.

"You're, how did you phrase it? Stalling...it might help to get it out, by talking about it." Nope. He noticed, of course he did. Damn Vulcan! With his being all smart and observant, nothing really gets past him.

"I just had a conversation with my father." I left it simple, because I was being forced back into that moment by my brain. And I didn't want to go back there. To hear my fathers disappointed words, again.

"An unpleasant one, I gather?" Spock gently touched my wrist, before he put his hand back where he had it.

"You gathered correctly." I sighed. He nod once slowly, as he seemed to go somewhere in his mind. I watched his eyes flash with a few emotions that were going by too fast. I couldn't catch onto one. I touched his forearm, giving it a light squeeze.

He looked over at me and I smiled. He seemed to be back from wherever he was. It didn't look like a good place. So, I'm glad...I brought him out of it.

I know what you're thinking. Yes, I said he was a Vulcan. And yes, he continues to make contact with me. Voluntarily, no less...I know! You're going to have let me explain. He wasn't always okay with, being um...physical. Or not physical, that sounds like, we're having sex. Which we aren't doing anything of the sort. Despite what people think, just because we hang out a lot doesn't merit anything impropriate going on. And he sometimes -at random times- decides to touch the nearest available skin.

Doesn't mean he gives me the pipe. Because he isn't, don't get me wrong. He is a cute; -some may say- sexy guy. In his own right, he is sexy. I enjoy his mind and his strange ways. With him being a Vulcan, his senses are heightened. You know his sense of smell, taste, touch etc. Everything he has is better than us humans.

Then there is his eye. I adore his eyes, he's also human. Well, he's has a half and half mixture inside him. And the reason why I love his eyes is because I can see everything in them. I can see when he's not trying to tell me something. Or when he's having an internal battle with himself, emotions and logic are fighting against each other for dominance. The Vulcan vs. the human is what I like to call it.

Now, let me tell you...it was weird as hell at first. Well the first several times. I didn't know what to do. Or what to think of his intentions, I'm sure you can understand why that was. A few friends of mine thought it was something sexual. Like he was trying to do something perverted.

And I almost bought into that, but he never grabbed my ass. Neither has he forced his hand between my legs. All the while he says 'Whoops! I thought that was what friends do.'

He did touch my knee, one time. There were no long lingering caresses, nothing like that. Spock just pressed the tips of his fingers, to the skin for a couple seconds, before he casually put them back at his sides.

My other friend had the audacity, to say that he was trying to forge a bond between us. She said that she did this study on different cultures. And there were some record of a few Vulcan people, forcing others into melding their minds. She swore that was what, Spock was doing with me. I knew better than to just, take what she said as face value.

She made it painfully obvious that she did not like 'Spock's kind.' Her word's exactly. So, one night I was on my 'owl night watch tip' being unable to sleep and all. I went to digging, and I found out about different things. His culture was like having to be around my father, all day. A chill ran down my spine, upon finding that out. That made me feel so bad for him, I would rather walk to Philippines to get away from my father. But Spock, he had to deal with that all his life.

It was conservative and logic based emotionally detached kind of community. So, no hugs when you fall down and scrape your elbow. Or any other sentiments like that. One thing my friend was right about, there was record of those things happening. It was considered, mental rape in the Vulcan rule book.

I had to let her know that, we humans do that to each other as well. So would she like it, if Spock would go around telling the other Vulcan students that? Or if he considered her a rapist, because of some records he found on us.

She thought it smart to go and say something alluding to that, to him at lunch. Right in front of me! Like I was going overlook the bluntly disrespectful way she spoke to him. On the account of us being friends beforehand. I looked at her so fast; I almost knocked over Spock's drink. He was going to do his version of 'going off' on someone.

But, I was too pissed off to wait for him to confuse the hell out of her. I wanted her to know just how I felt, about mistreatment of a race, she didn't understand. I kept it classy and ladylike, by pulling her to the side. To express to her, that I will not be allowing any of that. She got her act together, after that conversation. She lost a lot of respect from me, that day.

But I'm not going to get too into that. It's not even worth going through it in detail, it's bothering me all over again.

It was so crazy because, we'd be sitting somewhere. It doesn't matter where, really. And he'd just reach out and touch my face or leg, or shoulder, for no apparent reason. I was confused just like you are right now; I thought Vulcan's didn't like skin contact. Not only because of the extreme detachment issues, also because of the sharing memories through contact thing.

I jumped the first time he did it. He didn't even flinch, almost as though he predicted that from me. Maybe he didn't predict it, but rolled with the reaction like he did. I almost felt bad because, I didn't want him to think, that I felt degusted by him. This would be such a wrong assumption. It didn't take him long to get back to his routine, of unscheduled feeling on Stella's skin time.

The next time he did something was, after we were assigned to be partners in battle accuracy and strategy class. We were studying in my room this time. Helen and her friends were there, doing some research for their history class.

Spock and I were looking at the best way to find an enemy's weak spot of their aircraft. And he just placed his fingertips on my neck. Not long, maybe a few seconds. Before moving it away, he didn't even look up from his book when he did it. By this time I was semi used to his quirks. So it didn't freak me out, like it did the first time.

Helen on the other hand wasn't aware of this. She had no idea Spock and I had grown this far in our friendship, that it made this action normal.

The look on Helen's face was amazing. She was so shocked; she just stared the whole time. She almost failed her exam the next day, because she didn't study. Too busy all up in my business. She tried to talk to me about how that looked, to someone on the outside. Because being popular was very important to her, as well as her image. So she felt the need to warn me, about being careful with whom I get attached to. I didn't listen to her obviously. I never cared about that, kind of stuff.

After a while I noticed that, he usually would only need to connect with me once. Maybe twice in like a week. But the numbers became more frequent as time went on. It was like once or twice a day. And that's if I didn't miss a day, because I was sick. Then it's like, he had to make up for lost time.

So, I finally asked him why he felt the need to touch me. Once I became overwhelmed with my own curiosity. He would just avoid the question by giving his usual long winded answers, telling me about the body or something. I don't remember exactly, what his words were.

I ended up just telling him to forget it. He knew if he took too long with his answer, I would lose interest. Not for long, I eventually came back to ask again. It took me nearly, two years to get him to answer the question. Well, a year and some change.

I asked him out of the blue, one night in his room as we watched 'The League of Extraordinary Gentleman.' I wanted him to experience this classic that I loved.

He sighed and said 'I find...contact with your skin...less unpleasant as with most. Even though, I have put my shields up from 35% to 100%. So we won't exchange memories.'

It took me, almost two years to get a three sentence answer. But I never really went into asking, why he felt that way about me and not someone else, specifically. I don't know everything about Vulcan tradition or culture. But I do know that, they don't do things for no reason. I thought maybe he did this, to keep his human side alive. Or he just wanted to connect with someone. And I just happened to be interesting enough, to cause him to want to do that with me.

But, I didn't pry for anything more. It wasn't like he was going to give me, any more information away. I laugh about it now; I don't know why I was always okay with him doing it. Even though the action had freaked me out in the beginning.

If anyone else would have tried that on me, I would chop their fingers off. It was like; we both were taking comfort in it. I was fine with it, as long as he was. But, I know if there is something really going on here with that...if there is something Spock isn't telling me about the real reason behind his compulsive touching thing he does. It'll come out, like everything else that's done in the dark.

But I'm not going to treat him bad for a crime, that he didn't (or probably won't) commit. I'm not like all the other people who act funny towards him.

You know? Some people here treat Spock and the other Vulcan students, like they are some weird alien thing. Which the Vulcan are an alien species, if you want me to be politically correct. But they aren't all weird, some were really cool people. But some students here felt like, the Vulcan were beneath them. Or as if they had a highly contagious illness or something. And if they get too close, they'll catch it from them.

Even though half of those people, I would never be friends with. I do not like it, when people try to alienate someone else. It only makes me want to befriend that person all the more. So, I was fine with him seeking friendly, reassuring touching.

He used to be so shy about it. Making sure no one saw him do it, unless they so happen to be in the same room as us. But as our friendship grow and he became more comfortable with me. He would do it, in front of a room full of people. Like now, he doesn't even seem to care.

I accepted it. But I still can't understand why he would seek human contact with me. When there's a young Filly, who would be more than accepting of his attention. And she would want to take it higher. You know, to the next level.

"You shouldn't touch me so much; your not so secret admirer may not like that." I joked as I finished the test, already with time to spare. Spock's eyebrow went into his bangs.

Meaning you caught his attention and he wants you to explain what you meant. While he tries to logically figure out the outcome of your question.

"I do not understand." Spock stares at me. I couldn't help but laugh. For him to be a genius, he sure does miss a lot.

"You're honestly going to say, you don't know?" I wait for any sign of realization to show itself in his eyes. But there's nothing, other than confusion.

"Uhura?" I felt a sharp, stabbing pain between my eyes. I turned my face away from Spock, so I could deal with it on my own.

"What does cadet Uhura have to do, with this obvious admirer? You're talking about?" Spock grabbed my shoulder expanding his fingers, he pressed into the muscle there. The pain has subsided, but wasn't completely gone. I sighed as it stopped being blindingly painful. To a slight ache.

"She has everything to do with it. You know, she has the biggest crush on you?" I picked up my PADD to browse, through some shopping stores. My father was always talking about money being spent, and I think all the crap I go through with him. I should be able to get something for myself, like this vintage baby doll dress.

"It has been made known her...affections towards me. But I do not understand how her fondness for me, relates to my propinquity with you?"

Spock asked with his usual stoic expression.

"Okay. Let me explain something to you. Say you liked a young lady and she had this guy friend, right? Who always seemed to be around her, touching her? Wouldn't it bother you?" I was still looking at different dresses, making plans to release some of this anger. That my father created, by using his money to expand my wardrobe. So I wasn't watching his face.

"It would be very displeasing to witness." Spock voice made the tiniest change, someone else on the outside wouldn't have noticed. I stopped what I was doing, to get a good look at his eyes.

"It would be...wouldn't it?" I watched those dark, chocolate brown orbits swirl and swim. They were so trained to make sure, no emotions could be seen. But they weren't trained enough to fool someone, who has been around cold emotionless eyes so long, that they know that arctic feeling anywhere. Even with their eyes close. Spock was very good at being emotionless with his voice, but his eyes...his eyes couldn't fool me. And when he did shut down, I could still see something was bothering him.

I had to deal with a lot of heartlessness in my life, but having my mother there. Helped me see, what actual care felt and looked like.

The bell rang ending the class. Everyone started to get their things, as they got ready to leave to their next class. But the teacher's voice caused us to stop to listen to her.

"Everyone! Wait, I have an announcement! Alright! I don't know if any of you, heard about what the academy is requesting. It should be on the school website. I'll tell you anyway. If any of you are planning on going out tonight, or any night. Be sure, you don't go by yourself." She looked at everyone's face one by one.

"Always stay in a group of three or more. The bigger your group, the better. Don't let anyone leave by themselves! Even if you don't know them, personally. If they have on their StarfleetAcademy uniform on, treat them like family. Okay? It'll be on your bulletin board, if you want to read about it in detail." She stayed serious for a couple beats before she began to smile.

We all glanced around at each other. All the while trying to figure out what happened for this to be an announcement. As we get shooed out the door.

---

"Are you sure you're in any good health, for combat training?" Spock said as we made our way to class.

"I can't just ship out on combat training. That woman hates me. She'll say she got a tip from some nonexistent student, that I skipped class. No sir, I'll be alright." I spotted Uhura making her way through the crowd, towards us. I thought it was really cute, that she liked him.

"How could she report that from an illusory person?" Spock glanced at me. Quickly going back to looking forward.

"It's called lying, Spock. I know it's unheard of in the Vulcan world. But, people do it all the time." I almost cursed at myself for saying that. Spock had a curious look in his eyes. I knew in my gut, that he was going to ask me if I ever lied to him. And I wasn't going to tell him yes. I wouldn't set myself up like that.

"Hey, Cadet Spock?" Uhura finally made her way up to us. And I thank God she did. So, she can take Spock's attention away from me.

"Cadet Uhura?" Spock nodded once towards her. She fell into step with us, I wondered if she was going to ignore my presence this time.

"Did you hear about the new thing the school board is requesting?" She didn't glance my way, which is fine. It's not about me right now, anyway. She must have heard the rumors' about Spock and I, dating or getting it in. Because, she sure is acting like a jealous lover.

"Yes. The announcement was made in our chemistry class. It seems as though something unfortunate, has transpired to get the attention of the school board." Spock slowed his usual faster strides, thinking I was unable to keep up with him. Which I could have...if I'd tried.

I shook my head as he just unintentionally made us an 'us'. He most likely ruined her mood. He could have said 'his' chemistry class, and it would have been better. No, he said 'our' putting us in the same category. But Spock gets a pass because; he doesn't know the usual human dating rules.

"Stella!" I heard my name being called, looking around for the person to reveal themselves. Claire one of my friends's walked up to me.

"Hey Claire? What's going on?" I tuned out Uhura and Spock's conversation. So I could listen to whatever she's going on about.

"Do remember that guy, Tessa was talking to?" Claire asked, barely waiting for me to speak.

"Yeah. Karl...something? Lagerfeld? Right?" I guess his name; I never really paid him any mind. Karl was all about nonsense. I was not here for him, for whatever the reason this has became the topic of conversation.

"Yes, that's his name. Okay, Tess found him in the bed with another girl." Claire knows I don't care about this kind of gossip. So why is she telling me this, with so much excitement. "You know 'open shop'; he was in bed with her." Claire took my silence as a cue to continue talking.

We didn't give her that nickname. That was the name the boy's gave her, it used to be 7/11. But it was changed, because they wanted something that was a better play on words. I don't condone using her nickname; she set herself up for that though.

The name came about because of the fact that, she slept two sets of brothers. And one of them was twins. Among the other people, she slept with Kirk. Now she slept with Karl Lagerfeld! And Karl had -in my opinion- a worse reputation than Kirk did. That put the nails in the coffin of her status.

Like I said before, I would have a one night stand with James Kirk any day. Even with knowing his reputation. But I would never...never ever sleep with Karl Lagerfeld. He most likely has some kind of disease, that even with how advanced technology is now in the medical profession they can't even cure whatever it is he has.

"Why are you telling me this? You already know, how I felt about that." I lost interest in this discussion already. Tess and her 'return item back to the store the same day.' Receipt boyfriend, they both need to have a seat.

"I heard from Max Keller, that Karl said that he likes you." She looked like, the cat that ate the canary. I could feel my hair being moved, as fingers found their way to the back of my neck. It was nice to know, he was still there. And listening in on this conversation, no doubt.

"Why would I care if he likes me or not?" It meant little to nothing to me either way. But I know Claire. She doesn't bring something to my attention, if it wasn't important.

"He told Tessa this to her face. So I wanted to give you the head's up. Not only is the biggest creep after you, but Tessa thinks she needs to tell you to stay away from him." Claire walked with me to our class.

I sighed, great! Now she thinks I want that dumb ass. Even after knowing that I was the one who told her, not to trust him. He was being too sneaky. Like he was trying too hard to have game. You know? I didn't like the vibes he was giving me.

I'm like a cat in the sense of, if you try to be sneaky and pull a fast one. You catch my attention, now I'm watching you. Seeing what you're going to do next, so I can plan my attack. But if you act normal, you wouldn't catch my attention as quickly as with the other option. He just ruffled my feathers, so much. Just the mention of his name, makes me want to become violent. I hope I don't run into him not today. With what I woke up to earlier, it isn't the safest day today.

"I hope for her sake...she doesn't bring it up." I lean into Spock's gentle grip on my neck, seeking a way to anchor my tempter. Because if I don't do it now, I'm going to be in trouble before the class ends.

---

We have to go our separate ways for now, as we must change for this class. I didn't see Tessa in the locker room; she does have this class as well. I'm just glad she wasn't there because I do not want to have that stupid conversation as of now. I haven't worked up my tolerance for other people B.S. yet. I usually have an x-amount of tolerance for people on regular days. But on the days, when I have dealt with my father, that tolerance gets cut in more than half.

It will take little to nothing for me to go from friendly, to psychopathic in a split second. At that point, everyone is in danger. I was fighting against those feelings.

I think Uhura saw Spock put his hand around my neck. Because she was on another tip. She was glaring at me, in locker room whenever we crossed paths. It got worse when we walked into the gym, and Spock stood next to me.

He sensed the difference in my demeanor, and he was scanning my whole body to pinpoint the change. I wouldn't look at him, because I didn't want to answer any questions.

"As you all can see, there are mats on the ground. We're going to be doing some fighting. So let's get into partners. They are pre selected; we will switch around after a while." The drill sergeant points to a pair of people, and then she points to a mat that will be there spot.

I and Spock get paired up together. It was so unfair, I won't win with him. But it doesn't mean I'm not going to try my hardest.

"You are not friends any more, at this moment. Right now the person opposite your person is your enemy. They are the thing that is, standing between you and death." The drill sergeant was being serious.

They were creating killers, if you really think about it. Subliminally teaching us that, it does not matter if the other person is family or friend. If they are standing in the way of our own survival, then go through them.

No self-suffice for them. Save your own ass, screw helping anyone else.

She blows the whistle and Spock walks up to me. I took a hesitant step forward, before I started to trade blows with him.

I knew he was holding back. I almost knocked him down twice, but he maneuvered out of it both times. He got me on my back four times, and somehow we began to wrestle. I bit my lip to stop myself from laughing. I was having fun, oddly enough.

I finally got the opportunity to pin him to the mat. But that was short-lived; he did this bucking, twist move. And I was once again on my back. My eyes glided over his features and ended up at his pointy ears.

Being the curious creature I am, wondering inwardly, which became action outwardly. My arms reached out and took the tip of his ear in between my forefinger and thumb. I rubbed it, and then I gave it a squeeze. Spock's whole body tensed, he just stared deeply into my eyes.

I watched his reaction, as I added more pressure. With a specifically slow scrape of my thumbnail, caused Spock to bare his teeth at me.

"I'm sorry. My curiosity got the best of me." I laughed, it wasn't out of nerves. Because I knew Spock would never, attack me out of nowhere. He had too much control for that.

"It isn't advisable to do that again. Right now is not the appropriate time, primarily. Nor is it the appropriate place." Spock spoke as the drill sergeant walked by, and I took that opening to flip the roles. I pinned him down, my victory was short lived. Spock won of course. Which I already knew, from the beginning that was going to the result.

There was a huge rock that settled in the small of my back, by the time the whistle was blown again.

Our new partners were given; Spock didn't walk away without a quick brush over my exposed skin. Almost like he was saying quietly 'I'll be back. This won't take long.' I shrugged.

I was stretching to get rid of that feeling on my back, during that time my next partner stood by the mat. I turned to see who the person was and standing there was, the person known as James T. Kirk.

He wasn't even looking at me; he was looking at someone behind me. I didn't even care to see who she was. I felt bad for the poor girl, whoever she was that caught his eye. She was probably giggling like a teenager, because Kirk was showing her attention. Does she not know who he is? And more importantly, what he's about? I never understood why these girls who would hear the stories about him, and see how he ruined other girls (some of them has seen the effect, he had on a friend of theirs) and yet they still want to be involved with him. I don't understand it, yes he's attractive. Okay, I get that. But the way he treats girl's emotions. Like they are a tool to use so he can get what he wants.

Granted, I just used him to upset my father. But, that's different. How is that different? It's different, because I'm only using his name. I'm not using him, if my father stays out off the phone and out of my personal realistically fake love life...Kirk will never had to know about it. Therefore, I won't have to get him involved. Physically, anyway.

The gun was fired and the battle was on. We walked onto the mat; he looked me up and down. Smiling to himself, he stopped moving to extend his hand.

"Hey there? I'm Kirk, James Kirk." He looked me in the eyes and I rolled them. Lifting my hands in front of my face, I throw a left jab.

"It doesn't matter, what your name is." Giving him a combination, shuffling my feet. He backs up with his palms up, in a gesture of surrender.

"Whoa! I was just trying to be nice. And introduce myself." Kirk started to get involved with the fight. He blocked and even counters me with his own combination.

"This is combat training class. Not communication class. So, the need to be nice and introduce yourself is irrelevant." I didn't put as much effort in this fight against Kirk, as I did with Spock. Because I might, actually hurt him on accident. Than I'd have to apologize and I really didn't want to do that.

"Well aren't you just chatty Kathy." Kirk said sarcastically. He barely dodged a right kick to the ribs.

"Pay attention!" I stated. Before landing a nice body shot, three to be exact. One landed perfectly between the second and third rib. The second in the gut and the third was a kidney shot. At first he grabbed me to avoid my rain of hits, and maybe to subdue me.

But the longer the fight went on, the longer he held me against him. And if we just so happened to fall on the mats, he would hold me impossibly close. His hands would "brush" across things. He had this smile on his face. And it was pissing me off, so much. I knew he was doing it on purpose; he's so accustomed to girls throwing themselves at him. That he just assumed I was another one of them. And sadly for him I was about to let him know, exactly how I felt about him. My temper broke free, and took over completely.

It was never my intention to get serious in this fight. But he needed to back off, and recognize boundaries. When I got out of his octopus arms, which seemed to be everywhere. I pushed him pretty hard away from me. I backed up, putting some distance between us.

I took a deep breath, before I ran towards Kirk. When I got close enough, I jumped up and wrapped my legs around his neck. Using my momentum and a twist of the hips, to bring his whole body down. He landed on his shoulder and back hard.

As soon as I get ready to deliver my next hit, the whistle sounds. I stand up, while backing away from him. He peers up at me; I extended my hand to help him up. After I seen he was okay, I walked away. My back popped in protest against, every single move I made.

"Are you alright?" Spock appeared right beside me. I glanced over at him.

"I'm satisfactory." I continued walking towards the door. The drill sergeant looked at me and nodded. She actually looked at me. She never looks at me, she looks through me. I think I actually saw her teeth. I didn't even know she had teeth, she never smiles. That was kind of scary in a way.

"Did you just say satisfactory?" Uhura voice chimed in. I surpassed the urge to roll my eyes.

"Yes. I did say satisfactory, that's how I felt. So, I said as much." I wanted to- no, I needed to get somewhere to take the edge off. Someone just might get their feelings hurt. I was letting everything get to me, it's kind of like my father lowered my defenses. He makes me weaker, more sensitive.

"You guys are hanging out too much, now you're speaking like each other." Uhura said with a smile. "That doesn't seem like something you'd say." she stated that with confidence like she had some kind of reference, on how I am as a person. This female needs to go somewhere, she's in danger and she doesn't even know it.

"I don't see how that can't be something I'd say. I have many ways to express myself." I could feel my blood rushing in my ears, and Casper's knee in my back. I have, little to no patience for anything right now. I ignored the little jab she just gave in the beginning; because that was the only way I was going to stay calm.

"I must agree with cadet Uhura. You are behaving strangely." Spock looked past Uhura -who somehow managed to get in between us- towards me. I sighed as I continued walking towards the lockers.

We continue to walk together over to our separate changing rooms. Uhura goes on about, how she would like to have him sit with her at lunch. I tried to walk faster, to get away from them both. After lunch I have to take the Kobayashi Maru test, and I am not looking forward to it. That adds more pressure to the already inflamed and irritated nerve cell.

And pain, did I not mention the pain? That has resided in my lower back. No matter what I've tried to do, it will not go away. Then I practically get molested on the mats in combat class, I'm just...not in the mood.

I turned the corner and there it...was my destination. The locker rooms, I kicked it into high gear.

Basically skipping towards them, I could see them getting closer. Suddenly my movement abruptly stops. Looking straight ahead, I was needless to say confused.

"If you wouldn't mind, I need to have a conversation with Stella." Spock was the reason for my delay. He wrapped his hand around my wrist, holding me still.

"No, I don't mind. I'll see you at the lunch tables." Uhura stared at his hand on my wrist, before turning on her heels. She disappeared behind the locker door. I gently pulled my arm against his hand, asking him to let me go.

"What can I help you with?" I try to put on my best, innocent look that I could muster.

"Stella?" Spock wouldn't let my wrist go as he spoke.

"Spock?" I could feel the weight of his gaze, on my face. I was finding it hard to continue looking at him.

"I undoubtedly believe that something is bothering you. Does it have anything to do with that discussion, with your father? Or is it the upcoming test." I guess I'm not the only one that learned, something from this three year going on four year friendship. Just like I can easily pick up on his mood changes, he can do the same with me. I have got to remember that.

"It's a lot of things, that's bothering me. Would you like me to make a list?" I said sarcastically.

Spock knows from history, when I was hiding something. He knows when to push an issue, and when to let it go. And at this moment, he's decided to push the issue.

"If making a list will help with the anxiety you're feeling. Yes, I believe stating your worries in an organized fashion would be for the best." Spock didn't understand sarcasm, I almost forgot that fact.

"I was being sarcastic, Spock." I felt the headache start up again. I pinched the bridge of my nose, trying to make it stop.

"That verifies the obvious. Something is indeed upsetting you." Spock wrapped his long, expertly aware fingers around my neck. Pressing his thumb, just below the cervical curve.

"Are you saying that, because I'm being sarcastic something has to be wrong?" I glared up at him.

"With the underlying vicious tone, that surrounds your sarcasm. Yes, that is what I'm expressing." Spock face didn't change, not even in the slightest. He was right; it was coming out a bit snappy. I needed to chill. It's not his fault, my father is an asshole. I shouldn't take it out anyone that didn't deserve it.

"I-it's not directed towards you. I shouldn't take it out on you. You're just trying to be a good friend, to your best ability." I sighed while my eyes closed. He was adding more pressure on the spot that he found suitable to keep his hand.

There was a tingling that broke out, across my skin. It chased the headache away. A dizzying feeling, replaced the migraine that was once there. My arms shot out and grabbed his shirt sleeve, I tried to stabilize myself.

I stood completely still, with his hand cradling the back of my head. Even with my eyes closed, the world around me felt like it was spinning.

"Awe! Is this a lover's quarrel?" A male voice appears, and it made the sick feelings worst.

"Fuck off Karl!" I didn't even open my eyes. I found myself leaning more into Spock.

"How did you know, it was me?" Was his stupid response.

"I knew because whenever you speak, I felt like punching the nearest wall." I didn't hide how much he annoyed me. If what Claire says is true, and he was trying to get with me. I should, nip it in the bud now. Save all the possible misunderstandings.

"Awe, you don't need to act like that." Karl smacked his lips. I slowly opened my eyes, and the lights seemed brighter.

"I don't know why you even decided to say something. What was going on over here, is between who is over here. You could've kept your thoughts to yourself, and it would be no bother to me." I thought it was a good time to walk away, right at that moment. But my head began swimming again.

I leaned fully into Spock this time, he stiffened. And I put every ounce of my strength, into getting off him. I know it took him by surprise, with the sudden contact.

"I would really appreciate it, if you didn't try to put your nose in my business." I held it together enough, to make it into the locker room.

---

I took a quick shower, shuffling towards my locker in a haze. Maybe I shouldn't have wrestled so wholeheartedly. I could have taken it easier. If Kirk hadn't made me mad, I wouldn't have fought so hard. I still can't believe he did that. Even that was the less of my worries; I think he understands not to do that again.

I walked outside the door, fully dressed. Spock was standing there, with Uhura and her back was facing me. Spock looked at me as my presence was made known to him. I walked up to where they stood, that feeling of passing out wasn't as bad right now.

"It will be logical to take you to the nurses' office. The chances of you becoming unconscious are 75% higher than if you would have allowed me to take you, when I first suggested it." Spock stayed close as we walked to the lunch room.

"Spock, I'm going to be fine. I think I need to eat something." I dismissed his concern, hoping it would make him relax. He stared at me and I almost squirmed under his scrutiny.

"Ok, how about this...after I eat something, I'll be more than willing to let you carry me to the nurse. Yeah?" I walked through the lunch room, towards the line. I followed Uhura, who was really leading Spock to her table. But, he wouldn't let me out of his sight. So, I decided to play nice. I know how much courage it took for Uhura to ask Spock to sit with her.

I sat down with my tray, with Spock on my right and Uhura right across him. They were talking about economics or something of that nature. I was too busy trying to think about how much trouble today has been. My Father is just...ridiculous as usual. I don't know how I can even do it. How have I been able to deal with him, all these years without turning around and becoming a female version of him? Bullying other people, or killing myself. One or the other, it has to be because of my mother. She's my anchor, I'm truly thankful for her.

How she can stand being married to that man, the world may never know. I would rather be caught trying to steal something from the Klingons, and let them do whatever torture they see fit for a criminal. Than to marry a man like my father. There will be no ifs, ands, or buts' about it. Damnit! Thinking about my father makes my mind go back to that, huge fat ass lie I told him. If what I just experienced with Kirk in combat class, is the tell-tale sign of what he's like all the time. I don't think I'll be able to keep up this lie. Because I might kill him, before I actually have to keep this crusade up.

On the other hand, if my father keeps his nose out of my business and doesn't call the school to snoop around James's background. I'll be able to hold this lie so tight, until I squeeze the life out of it. Then I won't have to follow through with it, nor will I have to reveal this lie to the manwhore in question. And then he won't have anything to hold over my head. I will not be in his debt; I won't owe him a favor. All is good in the world.

But, you and I both know that's not how my life works. I'm not that lucky and the principalities, will not allow me to be happy consistently. As of right now, things are working and I might have a serious head injury. But that is a minor thing, compared to the stress that's coming up with the Kobayashi Maru test. I'm not going to freak out; I'm not going to take what my father said to heart. I'm going to get focus and do my best, I studied all this time. And I refuse to allow my nerves get the best of me, causing me to make silly mistakes.

I didn't even see Claire, Tessa and the rest of the crew sitting down at the table. Uhura's friends were there but they were on the other side of the table by her. Three of my friends were missing, probably sitting with their significant other's. Leaving the six of us to try and intermingle with everyone else, if they decided to socialize.

Even with me being lost in my own mind, I could still hear the different conversations that were going around me. Claire kept giving me the sideways glances, while Tessa stared straight at me. I ignore them both; I was concentrating on slamming down on my nerves. I didn't have time to feed into their...feelings of whatever they were tripping on today.

Claire started to talk about, what happened at a party she went to the other day. She went on about what people had on, what guy's she thought was cute. And who she would date and who she wouldn't look at twice. I looked around the cafeteria to busy myself with something, other than my thoughts that were threatening to kidnap me and drag me into a sea of despair.

Kirk and his friends were sitting on the far end of the cafeteria, at the table by the door. I didn't even have to lean all the way up, to see his table. It was adjacent to this table, I was sitting at. I recognized two other faces that were occupying the table with Kirk. But the rest of the people, I didn't know. And by the looks on the female's that sitting next to James face, it wasn't hard to figure out that they were a part of his fan club.

The girls would laugh any time Kirk said anything, which was sad to see. The other people that weren't there to get into his pants would smile and shake their head. I watched the atmosphere of the whole table change, as a certain cretin slithered his way over to their table. Karl stood in front of Kirk, and he begins to talk. I don't know or care really, what Karl said but James doesn't seem to like it. The look on his face was one of utter annoyance, it was an actual mirror expression that I had when Claire told me what he told Tessa. I almost smiled; I knew I wasn't the only one that was unsettled by his presence.

"Stella understands. Don't you?" Sam asked me, pulling me out of my people watching. I turned to him and blinked.

"I will not agree to something, that I didn't hear. So say whatever it was again, what am I suppose to understand?" I learned sometime ago to not just agree to what someone says, just so I didn't have to admit that I wasn't listening. Because, when I ended up do so, once I finally heard what the person said I realize I don't actually agree with them. Which made me look kind of bad...like a liar? And that's one thing you don't want to be label as in any place, I don't at least.

"I was saying that sometimes it's hard to live according to what your family wants. They might believe that what they want for you is for the best. But when it comes to your career or your love life, they don't know what's best most of the time." Sam was right in his assumption, I absolutely agree with him. This was hitting close to home for me.

"I do understand that. And I completely agree with you, because your family might want you to go for a career that pays well. But, you're not passionate about it. At that point it doesn't matter how much money it pays, you're going to be miserable. Now, as far as your love life. If you only go for people your parents want, you'll never have a love life. Because, there's no 'love life' without the 'love' part." I finished with a shrug of my shoulders. Everyone that was at close proximity, to hear my answer was staring at me. I almost felt insulted by the surprised expressions they wore, like they didn't expect me to have such a good answer.

Sam whispered a soft 'yeah, you're right.' other people nodded slowly. I rolled my eyes; they eventually go back to their normal conversations. Somehow, they started talking about dating and sex, love and cheating. And as the topics caught my attention, I could see Tessa staring at me in my peripheral

I knew it was only a matter of time before she brought up the inevitable. So, to nip it in the bud...I tried to get Spock to take me to the nurse. As if she saw me planning my escape she spoke up.

"Stella?" Tessa's voice was almost friendly, when she said my name.

"Yes, Tessa?" I sighed, here we go.

"I'm sure you've heard by now, that my boyfriend has a crush on you." She still maintained her false sweetness in her voice as she continued to speak.

"Actually, I have. But don't you think it'll be better, if we discuss this in private." I was going to play dumb like 'No, of course not. This is the first time I'm hearing of this.' But I thought it might piss her off more if I did. In return having her say something to piss me off and we all don't want that.

"No, it's fine. We're amongst friends." Her gaze glides over to Spock who was next to me and said. "Well, amongst some friends." That was strike one. Everyone knows how protective I am over Spock. So, for her to have the gall to point him out. She's bold I'll give her that. But, he's a big boy he can take care of himself. I'm going to let that slide, this time.

"I don't know what you mean. I'm friends with everyone here, so you must be speaking for yourself. Who is it that you feel like isn't a friend amongst us? Is there anyone here you feel doesn't belong?" I glanced around the table. " Is there anyone here that doesn't belong?"

"I'm just speaking in general." Tessa back paddled, I stared at her acutely. "Anyway, I told Karl that it was a silly crush. And I would not allow a boyfriend of mine, to walk around lusting after my friend. So we're on a break." She looks down at her food, while she pushed it around.

"That's not how I heard it." Claire spoke up, and Tessa's head snapped up and his glared at her. "Plus, he's your ex boyfriend. You know? As in past tense, not present tense." Claire knows she's wrong for that. I turned my head into Spock's shoulder, trying so hard to not let my giggle escape. He turned towards me, peering down at me face. I had my eyes closed, while I pressed my lips into his shirt.

When I finally composed myself, I opened my eyes and was slightly surprised at how warm his eyes looked. He looked kind of concern, but as he realized that I was smiling that emotion washed away from his chocolate orbits.

"I wasn't even talking to you Claire." Was Tessa's counter attack. That was kind of a weak comeback. If you asked me.

"Well. You invited us all here at this lunch table to have an opinion when you decided, to be spiteful, and try to out Stella in front of all our friends. You should've followed her suggestion and went outside or somewhere else to discuss this." Claire never raised her voice, but it was like she did. With the look on Tessa's face. She looked like she was about to say something, really vindictive so I stepped in.

"Look, Tess. I know where you're going with this whole speech. So, let me just cut to the chase. I do not want your man. I do not have the tiniest interest in him. And to be honest I'm kind of disappointed in you, for even thinking you needed to have this pointless conversation with me. Was I not the one that told you, not to get involved with him?" I tried to make it clear, about how I felt so we could put all this to rest. I could tell she was getting more and more bothered the longer this conversation went on.

"And you didn't listen. Now, look where that got you." Claire spoke up again, while looking at her nails like this whole thing is pointless. Which it was, but still I didn't need Claire ruffling Tessa's feathers anymore than she already has.

"Claire..." I sighed. She looked over at me and I shook my head, she huffed before she nodded.

"It doesn't matter. I told Karl that, the only reason he's interested in Stella is because no one here has had her. On top of the fact that you have this attitude like you can't be touched, or controlled. That would capture anyone's interest." Tessa is such a spoiled brat. She's mad that her favorite toy wants someone else to play with them. Little does she know, I want nothing to do with her toy. He's broken, and not the kind of broken that with enough T.L.G.C he can be fixed. This toy always has something missing, his clothes or a leg or an arm, it doesn't even matter something's always missing.

Unlike, most people that act like Karl. All they would need to change their ways, is for someone to give them some tender love and genuine care (that's what I meant by T.L.G.C. In case you were wondering.) And I have neither the desire nor the patience to deal with trying to fix him.

"Not him, no. I cannot, and will not be touched by him." I was being honest. She can hate me for that if she likes. I'm not taking it back.

"Karl is a great guy. Any girl would be lucky to have him interested in them. Besides, we discussed that all he wants is to sleep with you. He doesn't want anything else other than bragging rights. All I wanted to ask of you is to stay away from him." Tessa spoke like I didn't know this already. What was she trying to do convince me that Karl's worth a shot? Pa-lease, Karl is not worthy to lick the bottom of my boot. Let alone worthy to lick anything else.

"I...do...not...want...him! So your request is not needed, it's not needed to be directed towards me anyway. Karl is the one you should suggest that to. I'm not interested, not one bit. So, can this tedious discussion be over with?" I mentally pat myself on the back. Because in my mind, when I first got whiff of this stupid conversation that was about to happen. I thought I would be off the hinge right now. Good for me. I'm pissed, don't get me wrong. But not enough to go, to the left somewhere.

"You don't have to pretend to not be into him so hard, Stella." Tessa said out of the blue. If everyone's eyes at the table weren't on us before, they were now.

"Are you delusional?" It was Sam who spoke up this time. That caught everyone by surprise, because Sam doesn't like confrontation. If two of our friends are fighting, he'll stay as far away from it as he can. Unless it turns into blows, then he'll step in and try to calm the situation. Especially if it's our female friends that are fighting.

"No, I am not delusional! It just seems like she's trying too hard, to establish her hate for him. I mean it's not like she has better choices." Tessa can be a real bitch, when she wanted to be. Apparently that moment is right now. But unfortunately for her, I already graduated that class with flying colors. I got an 'A plus' in smart mouthery and sarcasm.

"Obviously you are delusional. Because Stella doesn't just say it, she physically shows it. Well, most people do actually." Sam shrugged his shoulders, before he realized he had more to say. "What do you mean by 'What better choices does she have?' Really?"

"I mean...if she had better options to date someone better, she would be right now. Like really? Trying to make Karl to be like, something underneath her shoes. When deep down she knows she likes him." Tessa knows she's scraping for something...anything to spot me. But she can't, she may be in love with the worst guy possible. But she's not stupid, a blind person could see how real the distaste I feel for Karl is.

"Anyone would be a better choice than Karl. Nobody liked him. Hell, Jeffery would be a better choice." After Campbell spoke everyone shuttered, except Spock of course. Either he didn't know Jeff. Or the fact that it isn't permitted for a Vulcan to shutter, doesn't matter. Campbell's point was made.

Jeffery is...? Okay, let me put it this way. Jeffery is the guy that knows where you can get all the best drugs from. But, he mustn't have read the drugs 101 Manuel about 'never get high on your own supply.' Because he does all day. He barely showers and he can barely hold a conversation long enough, to keep anyone's attention. All he talks about is drugs, all he thinks about is drugs, all he's good at is...? You got it... drugs. Personal hygiene doesn't fit into those parameters.

"I don't hate Karl." I finally spoke up, everyone attention shifted to me. Tessa almost looked shocked at this, which only confirms what I said earlier. She's bothered by the fact that one of her boyfriends, left her to be with little old' unimportant me. So, she was trying to hit me where it hurts, but she was aiming at the wrong places. "I detest him...his very existence brings me pain. If I never seen his face again, it'll be too soon." I was losing my inward battle, with my temper.

I understood she was hurt, but I wasn't the hoe that was caught in the bed with him. I have never made any inclination that I liked him. I don't even know why he picked me of all people, to have this creepy stalker crush on.

She needed to chill out. I was the one who warned her about him, before her feelings got involved. He was trying too hard to be like Kirk, in the way he approached women. And that only, turned off any possible infatuation I might've had.

"You think you're better than him don't you?" Tessa voice was scarcely getting close to threatening or like a warning tone. Like I needed to be careful with what I said next. She must not know who I am.

I only give my father the extra stretch of annoying the hell out of me, because he is in fact my dad. And I do owe him that much, to give him an extra leniency with my patience. But, I don't owe this female nothing. If she was paying for my books or something, then she'd have that same privilege as my father. But, she's not. Therefore she doesn't. But in all honesty, I think I gave her plenty of my patience.

"I am! I truly am, better than him. If the way he treated you is any indication, of how he treats his girlfriends. Than hell yeah, I'm better than him. I'd rather have a boyfriend who will treat me with respect. And treat our relationship like it matters, because it should. To the both of us, and not just to me." I wasn't going to raise my voice; I made a mental point to control that. But, this was exhausting. And like I'd imagine Spock saying 'extremely unproductive'. I don't have time for this.

First off, I have the most important test to take after this. Now my head is killing me, like I snuck into my dad's liquor cabinet and downed everything in front of me. But, the worse part is...I can't seem to eat. No matter what my stomach is proclaiming, my brain and mouth won't listen.

"You want to know something, miss 'I think I'm better than everyone, when I'm truly not.' The reason why you don't have that boyfriend you speak of, is because no one wants you." She leaned in close and practically spat the words onto my tray of food. That was strike two. Well, more like eleven but who's counting. "Other than that guy you hang out with all the time. Spork or whatever, I never seen you with anyone else." She waved her hand at him dismissively. She has no idea, what she's done. Not only did she spit on my food, trying to be surly. But she had the audacity to purposefully, single Spock out to make him feel bad.

"Let me help you understand some things." I stood up slowly, taking a deep breath letting it out through my nose. "His name is Spock! S.p.o.c.k. It is too easy to pronounce for you to not know how to say it properly. If I were you, I wouldn't do that again." I bored into her face, I'm sure my eyes screamed her impending death. If she dared interrupt me. "Seeing how this is too hard for you to understand, let me say it a different way. And maybe then you'll get it." I took another deep breath. Trying to ignore the weight of my hands that were still at my sides.

'I will not put my hands on this girl. I will not put my hands on this girl.' I chanted in my head over and over.

"I would rather drink a cup full of Spock's, Kirk's, and Leo's cum, before I'd talk to Karl. Let alone let him touch me. I do rather like being disease free." I leaned over the table slightly, almost entering her personal space. "Do you feel reassured now?" She looked kind of scared, which is the effect I was going for. I leaned back, she didn't need to answer. I knew she understood this conversation was over.

The whole table was silent, everyone was bug eyed and frozen in mid action of whatever they were doing.

I lift my legs over the bench that we all were sitting on, grabbing my ruined tray of food. I stopped with my back halfway facing her, glancing over my shoulder. I say,

"Besides, if I wanted someone like Kirk...I'd go for Kirk himself. Why would I want a copy when I can have the blueprint?" I watched her mouth fall open, and her scarred expression turned into utter disbelief.

Deeming it the perfect moment to walk away, I exit the lunch room and begin walking anywhere. It didn't matter really.

I was shaking by the time I finally calmed down. I sat on the nearest thing I could find; my hands throbbed with the strong desire to punch something. I closed my eyes and moved so I could sit on my hands. If I didn't busy them with something, I would settle for punching the hard cemented ground. I knew I would break all my fingers; yeah I could go to the medical side of the campus and get it fixed. But I didn't want to deal with them having to pop them back into place, so the bone could be aligned, before they could do any of that scanning fix a-roo thing.

I most definitely wasn't going through that. Because I didn't react to my angry thoughts, no matter how badly I wanted to. Now my brain is taking revenge by, playing out several different ways my fist could've connected with Tessa's face. My heart started beating so fast; I had to blink my eyes rapidly to come back to reality.

I sighed again. God I'm thinking too much. Some many things going through my mind that I wished I would have said.

Like 'you stupid cunt.' But I don't usually like using that word against another woman; it feels really aggressive and invasive. I only use that for special occasions. When I get so mad, that all I see is red. You know, those occasions.

Or maybe something like 'I don't want your dirty dick having boyfriend. Who do you think I am? You're the dumb ass that got in a relationship with the prick. Even after all the warnings you received. Whatever happened to the relationship is your fault, so sit there and take it. I'm sure you're used to that command by now.'

But, that would've lead to something else, and we'd still be rolling on the ground right now. She'd be right there getting her ass beat; she wouldn't even get a chance to hit me.

Then I'd get suspended from school, I'll miss the Kobayashi Maru test. My grade will go down, giving my father more things to rub my nose in. 'Bad ungrateful child. This boy you're with is nothing but a distraction. That's why I, forbid you from seeing him.' It's like ha dad, I was never seeing him in the first place. So you can suck it. God! That would be amazing, if I could say that.

I just couldn't stop sighing, the cool breeze rushing over my hot skin. I didn't hear anyone walking up to me. Nor did I hear them sit down next to me. But when I felt something gently running down my back, I knew who it was.

"I'm sorry." I huffed while tilting my head down.

"There is no reason for apologizes. It is groundless to believe, that you are at fault for anything that occurred." Spock's slightly differently toned, emotionless voice rung out.

"She shouldn't have made it seem like; you're not a great catch. Because you are. I didn't think she'd bring you into our discussion. She was just being mean." I've been on the receiving end of that kind of treatment. Being an outcast has two outcomes. One: it can be hell on earth, if you actually care about fitting in. You'll find yourself in tears more times than not.

And the second is it will be exactly what you want. Meaning! If you don't care about following the crowd, not being included won't bother you. Most likely there are people just like you, outcasts of their own right. Then you guys can get together and form a gang of outcasts. Outcasts unite!

Oh, that would be a great name for a super hero group. The Avengers, The X-Men and the Outcasts...it fits perfectly. I smiled at the idea of people like Leo and Kirk, in superhero spandex. Oh goodness! What about Spock? Spock in spandex...I can't. I just can't.

I moved my hands from where I had them trapped. The throbbing that ran through them weren't the same as before. I flexed them to get, my circulation back to normal.

"It was quite obvious that her emotions would become prevalent. She seems emotionally unstable, this Karl character possess what little she had left." Spock had my hand in his, before I knew it. Massaging it back to life, to which I appreciated.

"I hope I didn't embarrass you back there." I sighed as all the tension, rolled off my shoulders. My hand that was still in his grasp and it began to warm up the longer he held it.

"What do you mean?" He was focusing on what he was doing. I got to see his nice, long fingers move around mine. It was very interesting, to see the way they danced and wrapped around my tinier hand.

"What I said in the cafeteria...before I walked out." I almost blushed, when my brain rewound on what was said. I twist my waist a bit more towards his direction, so he could have my other hand. And I can stay in a more comfortable position.

"Oh. Your remark about ingesting a combination of Cadet Kirk, Medical student McCoy and my self's ejaculation. In comparison to the other option of having communication or relations with Karl Lagerfeld?" He looked up at me, and I continued to stare at his crafty hands.

This felt strangely good, my fingertips tingled a little. I never had someone, massage my hands before. I don't like getting close enough to someone, in order for anyone to get a chance to.

"If we were to go the longer route, then yes. That remark." I laughed. My mind was going down deep dark waters. I had to reject them quickly, the best way I could.

"Your statement wasn't an embellishment. I have witnessed Karl's mistreatment of your friend. However I do not know what a males bodily fluids tastes like. Knowing that, I would not want to be associated with him either." Spock was talking so casually and I couldn't help but cringe, as he recited what I said back to me.

"I can't believe I said that. I was so pissed, I could have killed her. I'm still shaking from trying to control myself." All my energy was slowly seeping out of my pores, it would seem. And Spock wasn't helping, with him kneading my fingers like that.

"You controlled yourself just fine." We let the silence take over; Spock was switching from one hand to the other. And I was watching the clouds in the sky, trying to gather any bit of energy I had left to stand up. I have a test to get mentally ready for, and a promise to fulfill.

"Come on! I made you a promise." I swayed a little, as I stood back up on my feet. Spock followed suit, he looked briefly confused. But it quickly washed away; he nodded before he started walking away. He only stopped, when he realized I wasn't beside him.

"Are you not coming?" He watched me as I closed the space between us.

"I do strictly remember me saying something about, you carrying me to the nurse." I smiled to myself before I turned on my innocent face to look at him. "I can't fulfill my promise, if all the puzzle pieces aren't in place." I wanted to see if he would do it. His eyes swirled with a thunderstorm of many things flashing teasingly by; none of them came too close to be fully seen. Or identified.

I almost laughed, at his facial expression. After letting the silence weight down on him, I giggled.

"I wasn't being serious. So don't sweat it. Come on, I need to get this done. There is a stressful test; I have to be on time for." I waved off his hesitation, while I began to walk away.

---

We made it to the nurse's office faster than expected. Once we got there, I had to answer the same seven hundred questions for the ninth time. Until they finally, lead us to the back room where the nurse was.

"Alright, Miss Ambrose? Let us scan you, see where the problem is. Then we'll have you out of here, in no time." Ms. Green stated with a smile.

"Thank you. But um...well this take long? I have a test next period, that I cannot be late for." I didn't want to come off rude, but I couldn't stress how important it was for me to not be late.

"No, not at all. This won't take long; I'll have my assistant get you ready. Okay?" She touched my shoulder and nodded once. I returned the gesture.

"Yes..." I watched her leave. I lay back on the pillow. I can't believe I'm here right now. At least the pain is making it hard, to focus on anything else. Every time I think about my father or Tessa's bull shit my head throbs. So after a while I stopped trying, I began to welcome the distraction.

The test on the other hand, couldn't be forgotten. No matter how intense the pain became. I don't know why whenever I deal with my father; the day goes downhill after that. Any other time, my day goes by pretty good. I don't know why that is. I think my father's bad energy is just so potent that is seeps through, the phone or my PAD and it affects my whole day. He's a curse.

"Stella?" The door opens and a voice calls out. My eyes open slowly, I turned towards the sound.

"Leo? What are you doing here?" I sat up and watched him as he moved around the room.

"I'm getting my required field time. So, what's the problem here?" Leo picked up my chart, nodding to himself.

"Well? I was running through the hallway, trying to get to class on time. And so I turned the corner, only to come face to chest with my friend Spock." I gestured in Spock's direction, as he tries not to hover.

"Should I check up on you too, Spock?" Leo glances over at him, before he went back to reading my chart.

"That would be unnecessary, Mr. McCoy. If there were any damage done to my form, during my and Stella's collision my body would've already healed itself." Spock stayed in the corner, but he was looking at the PAD as well. I think he wanted to see if there was more going on, than what I was making it out to be. And it probably was more going on.

"Well, that's good to know." Leo looked up at me, with this false disappointed look on his face. "Now, Miss Ambrose? What were you doing running through the halls like that? It's quite a dangerous thing to be doing." Leo puts the PAD down, before making his way over to me. I couldn't stop the giggle that jumped out my mouth. I knew the look on his face wasn't real, but the concern behind it was. That I knew, Leo he's not the best with his emotions. Something about his ex-wife and the games she used to play with him. That's why he still wears his wedding band.

If you have a conversation with him about it, you'll see that she messed him up. But he still loves her, like you'd think a person would their ex. And they weren't just boyfriend/girlfriend they were husband/wife, they put years into each other. Of course there would some love that remains. I never judged him about it. Everyone has a past they're being constantly reminded of, either by other people or themselves. Or they're trying to run from, by doing extreme things. That is what I've learned, being around different people.

That was the only time I made my opinion known, when I noticed his recreational drinking became everyday drinking. Especially when his grades started to suffer for it, I'm not the type of person to push my beliefs or opinions on people. Unless I'm asked or pushed to do so. But I asked him one day why he wanted to be a doctor, and the way his face lit up as he talked about it. Was what made me push to make him realize his problem, and help him stop.

Now, he drinks on a caisson which is fine. Everyone needs to find some way to release stress, from something. I'm glad he takes his career path serious, I'm proud of him. I smiled to myself, I haven't been able to see him recently with our classes conflicting and all that.

"Well, I was willing to take that chance seeing how I got to see my favorite doctor." I winked at him as soon as his eyes met mine. I smirked when the corner of his eyes wrinkled. "So, how are you doing today? Doctor McCoy?"

"Behave yourself, Stella." He spoke with a stern tone, but the smile on his face messed the whole thing up.

"What? I was only asking a question. As a friend, your well-being is something I should be concern with. Is it not?" I waited as he pulled out the scanner that was connected to this hand-held monitor by this long cord. My dirty mind went on this journey, which I wasn't trying to go on. I was focusing on what I was being asked, while I answered them without giving myself away by laughing.

"Stop it, Stella!" Leo said out of no where, he coughed to cover up his chuckle. It was like he knew what I was thinking.

"I wasn't doing anything." I let my smile show this time. He just glared at me and I knew that meant cut the crap. "Fine." I sat still while he finished finding the problem; he then went to get some shot thing. I hate needles and shots except the alcoholic kind. I must have been gripping the sheets, because Spock had to pry them out of my grip. I thought he wasn't going to let Leo see him touch me, but he gently grabbed my hand. Just the tiny -but nevertheless- bold move pulled my attention from the object in Leo's hands. Until the unmistakable pain of being poked with a pin, shot through my neck.

"Alright! You should be good now. The dizzy spells should fade and the headaches, you may be sore for a while. But, that too will pass." Leo went back to the PAD to write whatever, while Spock helped me out of the bed.

"Thank you, Leo." We shook hands, and I was about to start another conversation with him. But the realization hit me. I have no idea how long I've been here. I made swift work to sign whatever and get out of there.

"You're going to do great! You're the smartest person I know, believe in yourself." Leo said as he handed me, my purse. I didn't have to ask him, what he meant by that. I already knew, also I didn't have time to have a long conversation with him.

"Thanks! You'll do great too, on your medical exam." We nod in unison, and then Spock and I left. I nearly ran out the office, and towards the building where the exam was taking place. Spock kept grabbing my arm to slow me down into a power walk. Which was necessary, but nonetheless annoying?

No, I'm not friends with everyone. But, you remember me talking about being an outcast and how we sometimes find other's just like us. Well, that's what our friendship's dynamic is. He considers himself an outcast, and I also consider myself an outcast like I mentioned before. But that's not how we became friends, it does help though.

I met Leonard maybe three years prior to getting accepted to this academy. My father was doing a business deal out in North Carolina, and the man my father was trying to work with was a very difficult man. And so, he wouldn't work with my father unless he lived in the North Carolina. Because he said my father wouldn't understand, why he didn't want to just sell his house to just anyone.

With my father being who he is, he made us go with him. Because if he had to suffer we had to suffer too. No. He didn't actually say that, but he didn't have to. So, there we were in North Carolina. It was suppose to be a few months, and if the man didn't want to sell still then we were going to leave. But, of course that wasn't how it went. We ended up staying longer; the man would come to the place we were temporarily living everyday. He would talk about the south and the food; basically he talked until the sun went down. Mr. Wilson that's his name, he was a creepy old man. Always trying to get me to drink moonshine with him, the bastard.

I eventually got sick of him being creepy, so I would leave before he even got there. I walked about at day time, exploring and what not. But at night I would climb this huge oak tree in front of the house until he left. I met Leo at a bar/dinner called The Greasy Spoon, and I pretended to know him so I could get out of sitting next to Mr. Wilson. After that I ran into him, three different times before he vanished.

The disturbing part about Mr. Wilson was he didn't even live in North Carolina; he lived in some weird little town in Georgia. He would travel all that way to come and be creepy. Hugging me and my mother a little too long, or touching my knee under the table while he talked to my father. I decided I wanted to see if he was like a wanted sex offender or something. So one evening I stole my dad's car, and went to Georgia. It wasn't that far from where we were, so it didn't take me long.

While I was at the library looking into, Mr. dirty old balls, I heard someone walking by the chair I was sitting, but they stopped right behind me. I ignored it for a while but as time trickled by, knowing someone was standing there not saying anything. Just staring at me or the computer screen being noisy was freaking me out. I whirled around and found the same serious looking Leo standing there; he was staring at the screen. When he finally looked up at me he seemed shocked, just as I was when I first turned around. Then this smile slowly slid over his lips, he says the classic corny line; 'Are you following me?'

I, of course point out how corny that line was, than we started to talk about movies. This was a younger unmarried Leo, so he was a lot more free and silly. After I told him what I was doing there, he told me he heard about Mr. Wilson and all the stories about him. We found something's in the newspaper, and I printed some out. He asked if he could take me out to eat after that, I wanted to get out of North Carolina as soon as possible. Before it became as hot as the devils crack out there, so I declined politely but we exchanged numbers as we made plans for another time.

But as I begin to walk away, I could hear someone talking to Leo. Which wasn't anything strange; I only stopped when I actually heard what was being said. I turned around and standing there was, this jock looking guy picking on Leo about some girl he couldn't get. I think you can guess what I did next. It's kind of my pattern, to take it personal when someone picks on a person who is nice. But they are looked at as weak, so people pick on them.

I walked up to where they stood, and I pretend to just notice Leo. Like, I wasn't just in his presence two seconds ago. I hugged him, like I did at the Greasy Spoon. But unlike at the dinner, I kissed him. And the jock guy's mouth dropped opened, so we did end up having lunch that day. After I got home later that day, I showed my father what I found. Thinking he would want nothing to do with the creepy old man. But my father told me that, this account meant a lot. So we would stay as long as it would take, to get that old man to sign the house off.

It took three year's of my father to suck up to the stupid old man to sign the papers. Well, it took two and half years to get Mr. Wilson to sign. But it took an extra year for anything to finalize. I avoided that house most days, and the days I couldn't I'd get Leo to come by and live the torture with me. I left after the third year and we stayed in contact as much as we could. Then I heard he got into university of Mississippi and I was finishing my sophomore year of high school. We kind of lost contact after that.

Then when I started here at Starfleet academy, we ran into each other and he didn't even recognize me. He was surprised to found out I was going there as well. He is older than me by some, so it was understandable that he didn't know it was me after so much time had passed.

I was being shaking out of my thoughts of reminiscing, by someone and I snapped at whoever it was.

"What!? Why are you shaking me?" I blinked away my flashback, as sandy brown hair comes into view.

"I'm shaking you because, I was talking to you and you weren't listening." Claire spoke while she released my forearms. She smiles sweetly, as I glanced around to see where I was. I made it to the stimulation room while fully engrossed in my flashback? That's an amazing, new skill I'm developing there.

"What were you saying?" I got myself back on the current conversation.

"I was asking you, where did you disappear to during lunch?" Claire asked.

"Spock took me to the nurse. I ran into him earlier and I was propelled off him like a rubber ball, then I was slammed against the ground by the power of the ricochet of it. And I started having pain in my neck and random dizzy spells. So I say it was something that needed to be addressed"

"Oh dear God! You sound just like him." An exasperated male voice entered into our conversation. At first I thought it was Karl, and I felt myself go from 0 to 1,000 rather quickly. I debated if I would be justified to just turn around and punch him in the face. I smacked my lips when I seen who it actually was.

"If you mean that I sound smart and sophisticated than, thanks." I was still debating on, if I could just punch him in the face. It would be such a handsome face to mess up, I almost feel bad about thinking so hard about it.

"So, you do actually hang out together." Kirk asked with no sign of his usual arrogance.

"Yes..." I glanced at him, to keep an eye on the space between us. A group of people have collected around as we all wait for the doors to open.

"Don't you find him...?" He trailed off and I tried not to jump down his throat.

"Don't I find him...what?" My nerves were shot. Now that it started to dawn on me, how close I am to taking the test, I'm literally at the door of my death. Okay, that maybe a little overdramatic. If I fail this, I might as well be dead. My father would never let me live this down, and I might act on the many fantasy of his death coming from my hands.

"You know? Unreliable, too logical, too safe um...emotionless." Kirk concluded, and a strangled laugh falls off my lips. He looked at me curiously; I covered my mouth with my hand.

"Unreliable? Emotionless? Are you...James Tiberius Kirk seriously pointing out those characteristics in another person?" I almost doubled over, with how hard I was laughing. The expression on his face was amazing. I couldn't stop laughing at him. "Don't tell me the next word you were going to use, was detached? Please, don't say that was where you were going?"

"I don't see what so funny; I was only being honest with what I experienced." Kirk was staring at me now, and I looked at him for the first time since he injected himself into my conversation.

"Sorry, I don't mean to laugh. But it's like deja vu, I just heard someone say those exact words when they were describing you. Spock is a Vulcan, so for him to be too logical or too safe, is somewhat irrelevant to state. Seeing how it comes with the Vulcan territory." I finally calmed myself, I haven't laughed that hard in such a long time. It felt really good, to do it so freely.

"You were talking about me?" Kirk smirked and I rolled my eyes. Of course that's the only thing that catches his attention.

"No. I was trying to relax earlier today, and I just so happened to be in the same location as two girls who were discussing you." I could see people that were standing around us, glancing in our direction. It was mostly the girls that were staring, which I get we all know Kirk doesn't just talk to a female. But they are definitely mistaken, if they think I'm going to be his next target that he hits.

"What were they saying?" He asked. It's crazy to me that he doesn't know what girl's that he used are saying about him. Maybe he does, but he wants to know from someone who's heard it first hand.

"Honesty? They were saying you are a heartless, detach, asshole that has the emotional maturity of a 16 year old boy. I can't say out loud the rest of what they said, because it wouldn't be ladylike of me to speak such things." I smirked, while I looked forward at the doors. Waiting for them to open, I don't know what's taking them so long to start the test.

"Did I used to date one of those girls? Because that sounds like someone, that was bitter about our fling abruptly being stopped. To make such an assumption about me, they don't even know me." Kirk stated and I scoffed at him. Is he really going there with the whole 'people don't know who I really am?' Bit?

"Probably. What girl here haven't you dated?" I almost face planted myself, I totally just set that up for him. Didn't I? Hopefully he didn't catch it, because I wasn't trying to bait him. But, I could see how it would seem like I did.

"There are a few that I haven't dated yet." There was a hint of flirtation in his voice that I didn't like. He was back to smiling like the Chester cat. I don't know why, he's still insisting on talking to me. I know he can see the blond chick on my left trying to get his attention, why is he not going with that.

"And there are the ones you never will. You'll get over half of those 'few' girls that you haven't dated yet. But, there are individuals that you will never get. No matter how hard you try." I heard people around us muttering about what I just said, noisy people. I was speaking on my own behalf, even with my lie I told my father about me dating him. It was just that a lie, I would never have to act on that lie. At least I hope I don't. "Besides, it's your image that they are going off of. It's not like you never did anything wrong, and these two girls created this lie to spread around. If they don't know the real you, that's because you never give a person a chance to."

All conversation dies at that point, I wanted to sigh in relief when James doesn't say anything. But like most things that involve James Kirk, the silence doesn't last long.

"I didn't get a chance to...um...tell you this in class, but you're a great fighter. I've never seen a girl capable of doing that." He was deflecting the obvious on point observation I just gave. I think I hit too close to home, for his comfort. Nope, superficial conversations are his forte, that's okay. I know how to roll with the punches.

"Thanks..." I felt Claire bump my shoulder with hers, I looked at her and she winked at me. I shook my head, she needed to cut out whatever little thought she had going on in her head. The sliding doors made a clicking noise, meaning it was almost time to start the test. The door whooshed open, people began to walk in. "I'm going to need you to remember that, the next time you feel all touchy feely again." I could tell he knew exactly what I was referring to. I looked over his shoulder and seen Spock standing there. I walked around Kirk, and moved to get over to Spock.

"Where'd you go?" I smiled at him, as he continued to stare over my head at -what I assume- is where Kirk is still standing.

"I had some business to attend to." Spock's stance was stiffer than it usually was. I didn't know for sure why.

"Is everything alright?" I reached forward and touched his side with my fingertips, feeling his warmth through the shirt.

I realized in that moment how strange our friendship really was, I didn't care if people thought we were together. Being close to someone like this usually would embarrass me, if someone else would make that assumption. I would quickly deny it and start pushing away from the person until the rumors stopped. Spock, in all his awkward Vulcan-ness, makes me feel comfortable. Oddly enough.

Something was off with him, and I wanted to know what it was.

"Everything is taken care of...If you're asking how my health is, there weren't any real damage done to me for there to be any concern. Are you in any pain?" Spock blinked as he finally looked me in the eyes. He removed one of his hands from behind his back, to touch my shoulder. I shook my head, as this calming feeling came over me. I had a feeling that, Spock had a lot to do with the sudden change in my nerves.

"Nope. I'm fine, really this time. I don't feel dizzy or anything. That was a good idea, to take me to the nurse. I'm glad the pain has stopped." I tried not to think too hard on it, I wished I never answer that call earlier. Maybe I wouldn't be this nervous if I hadn't.

"It would have been irresponsible for me to let you continue on, knowing the possibility of you being seriously injured." Spock was always logical, that was something he had to be. Something he was made to be. It was a lesson that was pounded into him since he was a child. He doesn't know how to be real, or not real, but human. That's why I think, I was so accepting of this contact thing that he does. The reason I think he really does it, is because the physical contact helps remind him of his humanity. No, matter how hard he tries to convince himself of being...he is not a robot. And as deep as his desire to prove to his father of his Vulcan worth, he wants to keep intact the side his mother gave him. His human side.

"Stella!" Claire rushed over to me. "I think you should get in there before they close the doors." I nod at her, she was right. The test was about to start, but my feet wouldn't move from their spot.

"You'll do fine! Won't she, Spock?" Claire glanced at Spock, while she fixed my hair. Like that was an important part of the test, I swatted her hands away.

"There is a 50.95% chance that you will pass." Spock stated with his hands back in place behind his back.

"Couldn't you just agree with me, and say she'll do great. Stating percentages isn't going to help give her confidence." Claire glared at Spock, and he looked as unaffected as ever. This made me feel good, to see my two friends bantering and getting along.

"Vulcan's cannot lie. So just agreeing with your statement without knowing that to be true would be a lie." Spock stares at Claire when she sighed; she looked at me like 'how can you deal with this all the time.'

"It doesn't matter if it is true or not, friends need each other's encouragement and-" I needed to stop this, before I miss out on the test. Because they will be doing this all day, going back and forward.

"Well, it's a good thing that it isn't a pass or fail kind of test." I know that most of the anxiety that I feel isn't coming from the test itself, my father has a lot to do with it. Even with knowing that this test isn't a standard pass or fail scoring test, I wouldn't trade taking orders than to give them. You see they are hard on all who dare step into that room. But they're damn near savage towards those who try to take the captain's chair for a drive. So, all in all I'd take being a communications officer taking orders and giving advice of the best course of action, than to be in that captain's seat. I would never go for that position; I have mad respect for those who have the balls to try. "Thank you, you guys made me feel better." I said as they both looked at me, confusion written on both their faces. I waved at them as I turned on my heels and walked towards the simulation room.

"We'll be here when you're done, okay! Good luck! Spock says good luck, too!" Claire yells after me, I wave over my shoulder. Only to start laughing as Spock begins to explain why, she shouldn't say that he said something that he didn't actually say.

I needed that distraction; I'm not as worried as I once was. I can do this; it's time to leave everything on the floor. As the doors close and the announcer speaks up to let us know the Kobayashi Maru test was about to commence.

I took a deep breath flexed my fingers and chanted in my head...'I can do this'...!

---

I was so drained by the time the tested ended, the doors opened and I walked out with wobbly legs. I think I did great, reacting accordingly to the situation and with James Kirk as my captain. Damned bastard, he was as arrogant as ever sitting there in the captain's chair. I did my part as quickly as I could; putting everything I was taught up to this point into action. Then there was this weird air around him and Uhura whenever they had to interact. I mean she's isn't his biggest fan, and neither am I. But she was down right borderline disrespectful, in a condescending way.

Yeah, Kirk deserves that kind of treatment but on some other time. At that moment we were in front of the school board, you pretend to respect him. I don't think they caught onto her behavior; because they were too busy being dumbfounded by how accurate Kirk was with defeating the enemy. I only picked it up because, I've responded in that way towards someone before. So I recognized it easily.

"You did it, Stella!" Claire was there like she promised she would. I looked at her and smiled as she continued to jump up and down.

"Well, we don't know that yet. The result hasn't been announced." I started walking towards my dorm, and Claire was in step right beside me.

"Oh, come on! Don't be so depressing, you know you kicked ass in there. Just admit it." Claire grabbed my shoulders, shaking me a little. I started laughing, as everyone scattered going their different ways as when we reached the hallway.

"I think I need a drink." I'm seriously going to pass out, from how bad my nerves are right now. I worked myself up a bit, now I need to find a way to calm down. Before I pop a blood vessel or something.

"So...we're going out tonight?" I turned around to see Karl standing there, awfully close to me. I pushed him back; he was getting into my personal face-space.

"I don't remember me saying anything about 'we' going anywhere." I wanted to make that clear, no one invited him into our plans. He only smiled harder, making him really look like Kirk.

"You said you need a drink, so I'm guessing you'll be going out tonight. And I will undoubtedly be out partying myself, there's only a certain amount of bars around. So, we are kind of sort of going out together." Karl is a fucking creep, and his reasoning skills needs some work. If he can't hear how stupid that actually sounds, then something is really wrong with him. I already established that point earlier.

"Just because there's a chance that we will be at the same place, at the same time, doesn't mean we are together. There is no 'we'; there will never be a 'we'! I need you to go back to Tessa, or whoever else that will put up with you. Because I am not interested." I went back to trying to talk to Claire and my other friends, so we can make plans. If that drink wasn't necessary before, after this little exchange I would definitely need it now.

"How could you not be interested? Do you have a boyfriend or something?" Karl sound so offended, by the possibility of me not being interested in him. Like he's some treasure that I was lucky to find. Don't make me laugh, there are so many things that I'd do before I do anything with him. Many unpleasant things.

"With me having a boyfriend or not isn't a requirement to have in order for me to not be interested in you." Wow! I really did just sound like Spock, right than. That's kind of funny; he is rubbing off on me. I never noticed that before, even as people took it upon themselves to point it out to me. It isn't a bad thing to be associated with the way he talks, to me anyways. Spock sounds smart and he is always politically correct when he talks. So why would someone take that as an insult?

"It's that pointy eared guy, huh? He's the one you're with, and you're ashamed to admit it. Its fine, I get it. I'd be ashamed too, if I were you." Karl is an idiot! I didn't want to be harsh in order to get my point across, but I see that is the only way I'll get him to leave me alone.

"Listen here minime! I would never be ashamed of dating Spock; the point is I'm not dating you. So what's going on in my personal life is none of your business. You aren't worth my time; I've tried to be as civil as a person could be dealing with you. But, I see that's not going to work. I don't know what gave you the notion that I'd ever be remotely into you, because I don't date people whose ex's I know. Especially ones that aren't worth it. Now! Get the fuck away from me before I have my friend Spock come over here and make you lose all control over your bodily functions." I didn't want to look at him anymore, because I could easily see myself getting violent with him. So I went back to listening to Sam try and recover the previous discussion. When I still felt a presence behind me, I glanced over my shoulder and Karl was still standing there.

"Why are you still here? Your locker is way down there; I suggest you go to it." I hate to be mean but everyone has their breaking point. You know? I might feel bad later on, when my brain forces me to think about it. But as of right now, I want him to leave me alone. Karl stalls for a second, before he walks away. When he was out of view, I sighed.

"Remind me never to piss you off." A voice that I recognized rather quickly spoke up from behind me.

"Hey Leo, give me a second." I looked at Claire. "Where did Spock go?"

"He said he had to speak to someone, he told me to tell you he'll be back." Claire always forgets stuff that people say that she deems not important.

"Okay! I'm going to change and than we should go out." I asked, and everyone nods.

"Yeah, that sounds like a plan. I want to drink until I drop." Clayton said; he's the heavy drinker out of the whole group. We are going to have to watch him, or somebody going to end up carrying him to their dorm.

"Yeah...okay! Let's meet up by the fountain in front of the administration building." We worked out the final details, of the time we want to leave school. And after all that, we all go to get ready. I ask Leo to walk with me to the dorm, as we talked about his exam and my test. As we walked into my room, I go straight to changing my clothes.

"So, you're coming with us. If you didn't know you are invited." I poked my head out of the bathroom door, and Leo was sitting on my bed.

"Was I invited? I don't remember hearing that, being said." Leo peered up at me when I came out into the room.

"You're always invited to things that I put on. Unless it's too late for you to keep up with me, old man." I smiled at him, when he narrowed his eyes.

"I ought to put you over my knee, but I think you might actually like it." He's accent slipped in a little as he talked. I noticed there are two instances where his accent becomes thicker, when he's extremely angry. And when he's fooling around, oh and if he's drunk.

"Hey, you'll never know till you try." I winked at him. See? This reminds me of the beginning of our friendship. Bantering like this, Leo doesn't do silly often but when he does, it's always fun to be apart of.

"You shouldn't entice your elders like that," He swirled his finger in the air, indicating that he wanted me to spin around. I spun once, he tilts his head to the side as if he was deciding rather, and he liked it or not. I might not even wear a dress; I might decide to put on pants. I think that will be a better way to keep my dignity; just in case I fall because I'm passed being tipsy. Because I'm planning on getting hammered.

"Why shouldn't I? Are you concerned with accidentally having a stroke, because you allowed yourself to get too worked up? You know old men can't do too much." I started giggle softly, so he wouldn't hear me. My feet suddenly left the ground; it was shame how long the confusion lasted in my mind. I twisted my head around, when I felt someone else pressed against my back.

"Be careful, old man! You might pull something, trying to play around." I squealed, when he made it seem like he was about to drop me. He only pretended to drop me, so he can actually drag me to the ground.

"You shouldn't tease people so much, darlin'. Especially a person that knows all about your secrets." Leo smiled devilishly, with this wicked gleam in his eyes.

What the hell is he talking about? My eye brow furrowed, I was racking my brain trying to figure out what he meant by that exactly. I know his secrets too, so what does he know about me that can be so...Oh God.

"You can't be serious...you wouldn't do that..." I glared at him; he wouldn't dare do that to me.

"I am...and I would." He sat up on his haunches; I tried to get from underneath him. But, he grabbed my hands with his bigger ones. And he held them above my head, with both wrists securely in his one hand. He used his free hand to attack my sides; I flopped around like a fish. I twisted and yanked at his hand, trying to get free from this torture.

Not many people knew that I was extremely ticklish, Leo only found out by accident. We were at this pound and he was trying to throw me in the water. But he ended up tripping over a loose tree root and we both fell in. Then I started laughing at him, and he began tickling me. So, he found out accidentally on purpose? I think that's how I'll put it.

"You're evil..." I panted out. This was fun and all, but I was starting to sweat. I didn't like that one bit. "Okay, that's enough of that. You can stop now."

"Can I?" Leo started tickling me again; I thrashed about some more. Laughing at the top of my lungs, I couldn't keep myself from getting louder.

"Yes...stop...please stop!" I kicked my feet out trying to buck him off. It was difficult to follow through on when someone is tickling you, so mercilessly.

"How is that for an old man?" Leo can be such a punk, but I wouldn't want him to feel like he can't be free with me. I know he hasn't been able to really laugh, or enjoy himself in some time. I'm happy to finally, get to hear his real laugh again.

"It was a joke...jeez Leonardo! Can't you take a...ah...joke!" I was breathing hard, as he finally let me go. "Besides, you're a good looking old man. I'd tap that." We both sat there on the ground, smiling at each other.

"Alright, let's get up and go to the meeting place." Leo stood up bringing me up with him. Ignoring what I just said, like he did whenever I said something that he didn't want to address. Which happened most of the time? I grabbed my purse and my jacket, we left after I locked the door. We just talked about nothing, and joked until we made it to the fountain.

"Is everyone here, now?" Sam asked counting faces, I was chatting with Ellea as we all gathered the people we were with.

"Yes, Helen said she couldn't come." Claire answered. After everything checked out, we moved out towards the bar called The Solar.

Everyone moved to an empty table, as soon as we walked in through the doors. Not soon after we all separated. Some went to the bar for the drinks; others went straight for the dance floor. I went to the dance floor, while waiting for the drinks to come. This place was packed, so many students were here. I was praying that, I wouldn't run into Karl tonight. He did say he would be out tonight.

I needed this, just having fun. I'm drinking and dancing, there's no pressure to be perfect. Which is the most ridiculous and not to mention an impossible thing to achieve. Let alone be expected to uphold. I get to be around friends who accept me for who I am. Flaws and all! God! How I needed this!

"Do you remember the first we danced like this?" Leo asked as the music slowed down; somehow I convinced Leo to get on the dance floor with me. It helped that we've had a couple shots beforehand. So he's trying to take us, back down memory lane. I laugh, even though I wasn't happy about being out there in beginning. It was hot as hell, sticky and all around gross. But, I had fun meeting Leo that was the best part. We became good friends, so I guess North Carolina wasn't that bad.

"Yeah, it was in that bar called...The um...Scrap Metal. Right?" I wrapped my arms his neck, as he placed his arm around my waist. We swayed side-to-side, while we made little circle.

"Scrap Metal that was a fun night..." He stopped talking for a while, as we both seem to be pulled back to that day.

"It really was..." I smiled, laying my head down on his shoulder. I closed my eyes eventually; I finally relaxed for the first time all day.

"Is your dad always that way with your friends?" Leo asked honestly curious, even though he asked the exact same question that day. I sighed; the last thing I wanted to think about was my father. But, Leo has experience my father craziness first hand. So there isn't much, I have to explain.

"He's always like that, with everyone. And I'm no exception; he's insane. The only reason why he did that to you was because he thought we were dating. He get's weird with stuff like that." I kept short, because I was trying to hold onto the new found relaxation for the life of me. It was becoming a difficult task all in itself.

"I bet your happy that here and far away from him." He noticed my body language had changed so he tried to steer the conversation somewhere else. I had unwillingly tensed up, as more thoughts of my father invaded my less than sober mind. Shaking my head free from his clutches, as I tried to answer Leo's question.

"It would be a happy thing, if he'd just stop calling me every week. And stop calling the admission office to check up on me." I sighed and tighten my arms around his neck, while he mirrored the gesture to my waist.

"That does sound like something he'd do." He chuckled; I was quickly losing the battle against the growing depressing inside. The song's tempo change, I backed away from his encircle arms with a small smile. So, I wouldn't alert him to think something was wrong. Which something was wrong, but that didn't mean I wanted to ruin his night of fun with my father issues.

"I'm going to get something to drink. Do you want me to get you anything?" I asked him, when a confused expression washed over his face.

"I'll just go with you." He studies my face, forever the doctor, always trying to diagnose me. I just nodded, turning on my heels while making my way over to the bar. The bar was overrun with people yelling their orders; I was surprised we even got our drinks. And we weren't even standing there for a long either.

"Bones!" Someone yelled out of nowhere, I looked around trying to figure out whom that voice belonged to. But when I couldn't put a face to the voice, I turned back around to place in my order for more shots. The interaction I was subjected to earlier, was forcing itself into the forefront of my mind. Causing all things that it deemed unimportant to go mute.

"I didn't know you were coming out tonight. Why didn't tell me?" My ears picked up on the conversation, which was taking place directly next to me.

"I wasn't planning on coming out tonight, but a friend invited me. So, here I am." My brain could only differentiate Leo's voice, out of the two people that were talking.

"Oh, how kind of you to accept that friend invitation. Even though I also invited you out tonight, and you declined my invitation." This new voice sounds so familiar, the more I hear it, the clearer it was becoming. It was taking me a little longer than normal for obvious reasons.

"Jim, your idea of going out is you getting every girl you see. Well, sticking me with the girls you don't want. But they are never interested in me, because they are so concerned with getting your attention. While staying out until six or seven in the morning isn't my idea of fun." Leo sounded like he has explained this a million times before. And...Jim refused to listen to him. That wouldn't be my idea of fun either, who wants to be someone's second choice.

"Okay, fine. I'll let you off this time. But next time you're coming out with me." There was pause, before I felt eyes roam the full length of my body. "Is this the friend that you ditched me for?"

I knew, I had become the subject of topic and I didn't need to be. Leo's friend should just stick to talking to Leo, and leave me out of it. I looked at whoever this guy was, that couldn't focus on his business. It was kind of dark in there, but I could still make out his facial feature. I tilt my head to the side. I don't know why I couldn't place, where I've seen this guy face before. Wait, yes I can. I know why it's taking me some long. My plan to forget the stress of today, by drinking as much as I could has something to do with my slowness.

"Don't Jim..." Leo said the guy name again...that's when it clicked. Kirk, that's who this guy was, I smacked my lips, why does he insist on being around me.

"You know this girl, Bones?" Kirk asked Leo while looking at me. I was about said 'this girl has a name.' But then I would have to tell him my name, and I saw that trap clearly. And I wasn't going to fall for it.

"Yes, I know her. She's a friend of mine..." Leo stepped closer to Kirk before he began telling him something, that made Kirk hold his hands up with palms showing. I stared at his mouth as Kirk said 'I'm not! Don't worry, about it.' I guess Leo was concerned with me becoming another one of Jim's girls, whose heart he will break. With me being heartbroken, I'll want to be as far away from anything that reminds me of Kirk. Which would eventually ruin our friendship, and it will be not only Kirk's fault, but it would be mines as well.

But I think it's the first time that I agree with Kirk on anything, Leo doesn't have to worry about it. Because, I will not let that happen. Kirk isn't the type of guy I'd go for. I mean, yes, he's physically up to par. What I'm more concern with is, how he is on the inside. You know what I mean, what happens after the hype of his looks dies. And we have nothing to talk about? What's one to do...just look at each other? That'll get boring after some time, for me anyway. Some people would be fine with that, I don't see how though.

"Why do you call him Bones?" I asked Kirk when they finally finish their discussion.

"I call him Bones, because of something he told me about his wife. The first time we met, he told me she took everything from him 'cept his bones. So, it just stuck." Kirk playfully hit Leo, and I smiled at their exchange.

"It does seem catchy." I took the shot that the barkeep put in front of me. Letting the burn, run throughout my body. I blocked out the rest of their conversation. I was too busy enjoying the bet I had with myself, about how drunk I could get before twelve o'clock.

So far I was losing that bet, seeing how it's only ten o'clock and I'm pretty sozzled. The hairs on my neck stood up, and my body tensed again. Someone was staring at me; it wasn't the fact that they were staring that made me take notice. The unsafe feeling that came with the eyes that were at the back of my head, is what caused these particular staring eyes to stand out.

I couldn't take it anymore; I had to find the source of that feeling. Scanning the room, nothing stood out as I continued to sweep over everybody there. My eyes landed a tall figure with a thin frame that was standing at back of the bar. With a drink in his hand as other equally thin framed people stood around him, there was no expression on their faces. We locked eyes, and that unsafe feeling that was once there was gone. Like the person looked away, as soon as they saw who I was looking at.

Even in the shadows where he stood, I knew it was Spock. I don't know if I said something to Leo or not, but I know my feet was moving forward in the direction of the barely visible man. The other Vulcan turned to see what I was doing; it was rare for a human to freely interact with the Vulcan. Which that was stupid to me. I will socialize with whomever I want, the choice is mine to make.

"Hey? I thought you were going to wait for me to finish the test, with Claire." I stood directly in front of him. He looked down at me, the dimly lit bar was making his already dark eyes look almost black.

"Like I stated to your friend, Claire, I did not promise to be there when you were done. Something turned up and it took precedence." Spock watched my half lidded eyes, as I nod my understanding.

"Yeah, I heard the beginning of your explanation. But the doors cut it off by the end of it." I was abruptly pushed from behind. Surging me forward and Spock wrapped his arm around me; he tried to help me straighten up. But I just leaned into him more, after realizing I wasn't trying to stand up, he ran his hands through my hair.

"Are you...feeling okay?" Spock said into my ear, I wrapped my arms around his waist. I only nodded; I didn't feel like talking anymore. Spock wasn't a big talker anyways, so he just dropped any other questions that he might've wanted to ask.

The side of my face started to tickle, or vibrate I should say. I giggled at the sensation; Spock must be talking to someone. I slowly opened my eyes not really knowing, when they closed. But as I looked around I saw Uhura standing there, eyeballing me. Like I should know better, than to get so wasted. I'm a grown woman, I wanted to forget today and that's what I did. Her mouth was moving; I focused on the words coming out.

"Like I was saying, Spock. Um...I was wondering if you'd like to dance with me." She looked up at him, refusing to glance my way. Not like she wasn't just staring at me.

"I do not dance. I am flattered that you would offer." Spock said in his usual tone, she nodded like she really accepted that answer. I knew better than that, Uhura doesn't quit. That's how she maintained such a great, grade point average. I was trying to keep my composure, but the little giggles kept getting out. I half-heartedly watched them talk to each other, as Sally tried to talk to me. I didn't hear half the things she was saying, but I answered her questions well enough. She looked satisfied with it.

Sally was a Vulcan as well; her name isn't actually Sally. I call her that because I can't say her whole name right. In the end, I stopped trying and so I gave her a nickname. I asked her if it was okay for me to do and she agreed with it. I told her she can give me a nickname as well, and she calls me 'అనియంత్రిత శక్తి' Which Spock told me it's pronounced like 'Aniyantrita śakti' and when I asked him what it meant, he said it means uncontrolled energy. As long as it didn't mean something like bar wench or Vulcan whore or something equally as bad I didn't care.

Sally was a cool girl; she always dressed amazingly. When I first started hanging out with Spock, she was the first one of the Vulcan students that he was friends with that accepted me. And I did the same with her. I can see that she was saying something to me; I just can't hear what it is. That feeling of being watched was back, and it was becoming somewhat of a task to listen to her.

I felt pressure on my shoulder; I turned around thinking it was Spock trying to tell me something.

"Stella, I want you to meet a friend of mine." Katie was standing behind me with this tall guy with black hair but it had a red streak in it. He had on the normal black pants that most guys wore. But the shirt he had on was one of vintage; I think it was called a muscle shirt back in the day. People don't wear them anymore, it looked good on him. He had the arms for it; his skin was a nice caramel color, golden almost. I was still staring at him like, 'what did she tell you?'

"Hello Stella? My name is Axel." His voice was smooth like silk sheets, and I wanted to wrap myself in them. I blinked a few times, okay focus Stella.

"Um...hey Axel. That's an interesting name..." I glared at Katie as she continued to smile at the both of us.

"You think so?" He asked, looking me directly in my eyes. I nodded. This damn spot where we were standing was, so dark that I couldn't see his face.

"Yeah...I've never heard a name like yours before." This conversation was lame. Okay, I wasn't at my best right now. I don't trust Katie; she's like the go-to girl for information on where the best parties were. And she knows the best places to find good guys, but she has never personally introduced one of those guys to someone before. That's what concerns me, the most right now.

"If it means anything, I've never heard your name before either. It's very special name." Axel says with a smile. He had nice white teeth, but that didn't stop me from rolling my eyes at how cheesy he sounded just now. Katie tried to help the conversation by taking it over, she was telling me -and whoever was standing close enough to hear- Axle's business. And she would then go in on me, telling him things about me. It was embarrassing; she was trying to make this thing happen. Whatever this thing is. Katie mentioned the test I took earlier, and Axel used that as the new topic for us to discuss.

"So, you took the Kobayashi test today. How do you think you did?" Axel asked while he sipped his drink.

"I don't know and that's the problem. If I only knew the result, I wouldn't be so worked up about it. If I failed, I would want to know that immediately. So I can go back and study more. But with this...not knowing thing. I don't know if I should throw a party and get wasted in celebration or get a gun and shoot myself." I sighed. If I wasn't influenced by really colorful and sweet drinks, I would be embarrassed with sharing my personal business with this stranger.

"I wouldn't think too much about it. I bet you did just fine." Axel sound like he really believed that. I peered up at him and even though he hasn't moved any closer this whole time, it felt like he was right in front of me. Like his hands were stroking the outside of my arms and his breath was running down my neck. He had this energy that was overwhelming, all sensual, and all intense, it was just too much.

"Uh...yeah...thanks." I had to take a step back, putting that extra space in between us. I bumped into something, and I felt an arm curl around my waist. I turned a little and Spock was standing right there, I actually forgot that he was even there.

"Hey...Spock? Um...this is Katie's friend Axel. And Axel this is my friend Spock." I watched Axle's eyes stare right at Spock's arm that was around my stomach. I glanced up at Spock and his eyes were on my face, I stared back at him. This was getting really weird, for some reason.

"Hey there, Spock." Axel extends his hand to shake Spock's, and he took his sweet time to do the same. I looked at Katie; she was smiling. I touched the arm that was around my stomach, softly and it tightens its grip.

"Katie, can I talk to you really quick?" I said loud enough, so Spock can see why I was touching his arm. When Spock released his grip on me, I launched myself at Katie.

"Yeah, sure thing." She looked at both boys and said 'We'll be back. Don't go anywhere.' I dragged her onto the dance floor.

"What the hell do you think you're doing? Who the fuck is this Axel guy?" I hissed at her. She didn't seem affected by that, not even in the less.

"You may not think so, but I'm telling you Spock likes you. More than just a friend." Katie starts swaying to the music, like I'm not trying to have a serious conversation with her.

"Just because he chooses to establish contact with me, doesn't mean anything. He doesn't know how to interact like a normal person does." I don't know why she feels the need to tell me this, again. She shakes her head, before she spins around.

"That's not why I say he likes you. Did you not see him, when Axel started talking to you? Did you not feel him?" Katie points out, once she was facing me again. She did have a point; I don't think he has ever wrapped his arm around my waist before. Well, he did one time when I was trying to reach this book on top of my bookcase and I almost fell. He was trying to help me out. So, I don't know if that counts or not.

"So, you brought Axel over there to prove your point?" I couldn't believe she would go that far, to prove her point. Getting this guy involved for no reason.

"Would you have believed me if I hadn't?" She truly believes she was right for doing this.

"What did you tell him?" I was extremely curious, about what exactly what she told him. He is very attractive, but I don't think he would've come over there because he was curious about my personality.

"Who?" She was going to act dumb. I wanted to rip her head from her body; I just wanted her to answer the question.

"Katie, don't do that. You know damn well, who I'm talking about." This was pissing me off; she needs not to play around right now.

"I just told Axel that I had a very sexy friend, that doesn't date much. And I wanted him to show you, there are good men out there." She said like it was obvious, why she did it.

"Well, now you have to go back and tell him I'm not interested." With that I walked away. I was going to the bar, but when I turned around the way Spock's fist were clenched, demanded my attention. I rushed over there and stepped in between Spock and Axel.

"Spock! Um...will come to the bar with me?" I tried to get him to look at me, but he was focused on Axle's face. So, I just took the initiative and started pulling at his arm. Of course, he didn't budge. It was like trying to pull a whale off the shore and back into the sea with a rope. I wasn't going to get anyway like this. Until an idea popped into my mind, I decided to act on it quickly.

I stopped pulling him, and stood so I could be pressed into his side. Then I reached my hand up, slowly laying it on his neck. It was like; I was slapped with this great anger. I almost gasped, my insides felt like they were on fire.

Spock tensed, seconds passed before he exhaled. I don't know what Axel said but it wasn't good. That was a lot of anger, I just experienced. He blinked several times, his eyes slowly turned to me.

"Hey?" I whispered with a smile. I used that moment to just pull him again, instead of repeating the question. This time he let me pull him towards the bar. Once we got there, I ordered many shots and other things. I should have been trying to get home, instead of drinking more. But hey, I'm here to have fun. Before I get the call from my father tomorrow morning, so he can ask me a million questions about Kirk. And about the test, or whatever else nonsense he thinks up to talk about.

I peeked over my shoulder at Spock; he looked like he was thinking too much about something. And I wanted to know what was said, that pissed him off so.

"You alright?" I asked him. He gave me and look of indifference. "And don't you dare say I'm sufficient." I imitated his voice, but I playfully hit his shoulders to let him know I wasn't mocking him out of malice.

"Honestly, I do not-" Spock was interrupted by someone pushing him into me. "I am sorry. Did I hurt you?"

"No, no. I'm fine, finish. Go on and finish what you were saying." I urged him on; I really wanted to know what he was trying to say. Even when we straighten up, we were still being forced up against each other.

"I was expressing my honest opinion about-" He was cut off again, not by the rude pushy people. But by his little girlfriend, pushing her way in between us. Her high ponytail would whack me in the face, every time she moved her head. Which she was doing more than it was strategically necessary; this bitch is doing this on purpose. Fuck this! I have some shots calling my name, at my friend's table. I don't have to stand here and take this from her.

I just walked away, not saying anything to Spock about it. As I get closer to my table, I could see Kirk sitting at my table with some blond on his lap, and Leo had some redhead doing the same thing. Leo ripped his lips from the girl's, and she went to sucking on his neck.

"Hey, Ella? Having a good time?" He panted out.

"Yes, I'm having the best time of my life. Thanks for asking, Bones." I smiled, while I scanned the table for my purse. I sighed; of course, it would be right there next to Jim. I made my way over to where he was. I bend down to grab it, and as I began to stand up Kirk grabbed my wrist.

"Are you leaving?" Kirk stared at me, with kiss-swollen lips and blown out pupils.

"Yes, I am. Why are you asking? Shouldn't you be concerned with, if the girl on your lap is leaving?" I yank at his grip on my hand, but he wouldn't let go. My heart fluttered and my brow furrowed, I was getting to the point of no return. Despite not wanting to ruin his pretty face, I will make an expectation today.

"I'm concerned because, you drank a lot tonight. Not to mention you're friends with Bones, and if he found out that I knew you drank a lot and didn't try to stop you from walking home by yourself he would kill me." He seemed upset with me implying that he's selfish person, which he is. It wasn't like that was a far-fetched assumption.

"I don't need you looking after me, I don't need a babysitter. I can take care of myself. Let go of me." I yanked again a lot harder than before. If he don't let go of me...

"I never said you needed a babysitter. I'm only trying to be a good friend." He spoke genuinely. I looked over at the chick going to town on his neck.

"Pshhh! Yeah...thanks...I have enough friends. Tell Leo, I said you tried to help and I rejected it. There, now you're off the hook." I yanked my arm so hard, he almost fall over in the chair with the chick on his lap. Of course, I didn't miss that look on his face, it was like 'What did I ever do to you?' I felt kind of bad for treating him like that. But, I'll get passed it.

I walked to the front door, and the cold air that whirled around my skin felt amazing. I was sober enough to get home; my world wasn't tilting yet. So I was good. As soon as I get to Edwards Street and I remembered this shortcut, I used all the time. It was a side street that I usually took when I went out drinking and I was getting sleepy faster than expected. I rushed to Grapevine and the down S street, making a left turn than a right.

Being almost at the street by the school, I finally heard the second set of footsteps. But I chucked up as my mind tripping out. I guess I've reached the paranoid phase, of my inebriation. So, I continued to walk back to the dorm.

I exit the last side street, now all I have to do is stay on the main street and the school is right there. 'I'm almost there!' I barely stepped into the streetlight, before there's this sharp pain at the back of my head. I gasped while cupping the area, I slipped on something I couldn't see and fell to my knees.

Feeling the same pain happened again to the side of my head, which made me collapse. I heard shuffling of feet as the curtains closed and my world went dark.

---

Ohhh! Cliffhanger, sorry to leave it like that. Well, I hoped y'all liked it. All mistakes are mine. I'm not beta-d, I have an occasional helper. Thanks again to you!

Well...until next time! Later days! ^_^