A/N: Sorry if anybody hates short chapters. I write only in bursts of imagination, especially in super short chapters like this.

Chapter 8: Tangled Feelings

Casey tried her best to focus at school, but it was becoming increasingly difficult with Derek in so many of her classes. Worse still, girls constantly flocked to him—whether in gym class, during shared electives, or in the cafeteria.

In gym, Casey watched as a girl named Amber giggled at something Derek said while they stretched. Casey tried to ignore it, but her annoyance grew as the interaction lingered. During math, she couldn't help but glance over at Derek's desk, where Kelly, another girl, leaned over to borrow a pencil, her hand grazing his arm.

By lunchtime, Casey's frustration reached its peak when she saw Derek surrounded by a group of girls at his usual table. They laughed and tossed their hair, eating up every word Derek said. Casey forced herself to look away, stabbing her salad with unnecessary force.

Why does this bother me so much? she thought, chewing angrily. He's free to do whatever he wants. It's not like it matters anymore.

At home that evening, the family gathered around the dinner table. Derek was his usual charismatic self, chatting easily with everyone. He shared funny stories from school, teasing Edwin and making Lizzie laugh.

But whenever Casey tried to join the conversation, Derek either ignored her or redirected the topic entirely.

"So, I heard there's a talent show coming up at school," Casey mentioned, trying to sound casual.

"Yeah, Derek should sign up," Edwin piped in. "His guitar playing is sick."

Derek shrugged, not even glancing in Casey's direction. "I don't know. Not really my thing."

Casey clenched her jaw, forcing herself to smile as Nora and George talked about something else.

Later that night, as Casey lay in bed with her thoughts spinning, she heard the familiar strumming of Derek's guitar. Unlike the previous night's nostalgic tune, this one was slower and unfamiliar, the notes soft and soothing.

Casey closed her eyes, letting the sound wash over her. Despite everything—the tension, the arguments, the unspoken feelings—Derek's music always had a way of reaching her.

She smiled faintly, allowing herself to drift into the melody. Soon, she fell asleep, the sound of Derek's guitar still lingering in her dreams.