Chapter 12 - Orchestra 2

Whirling around, I practically flew up the empty stairs. Why's it so empty? Where's everyone?

Could you save me the last dance? Could you save save me the last dance?

Could you tell me just what's going on?

The melodious tune fills my brain as I made my way into the orchestra where Merton's supposed to be. I get a counter heart attack when I see just how full the place is, hell the whole school's here and I'm just wondering why?

Oh.. I keep seeing your shadows in my bed.

Don't know what but I feel you're here.

I'm never gonna say what's on my mind, until you come physically.

I'll see you physically.

I'll breathe you in-in-in

So physically.

Merton's at the middle of the cluster of students, playing a guitar softly with his eyes closed. His two usual dudes; Ethan and a guy named Tyler both harmonize. Though it's a song I've never known before but he'll, the lyrics are something I can't help relating with.

"Here he comes! " a bunch of girls screech like a banshee as I made my way through the crowd, aiming for the front to get a better view. I began wondering just what was happening, could That crazy David had made my life a living hell by completely telling the whole school just what we did at the janitor' Closet? The possibilities are much because right now, his bitchy babe is staring at me with nothing but hate.

The witch.

Merton who's eyes had been closed all these while, gently opens them and almost faints to see the whole school before him. Well I wouldn't just be surprised if it were me, I'd massively pass as a great finish.

Yeah I'm that pathetic.

"That was the most beautiful voice I've ever heard" Mrs Janice exclaimed with her palms on her chest, looking really touched. "And yet I don't see you for practice. Seems you've been dodging"

"But ma-"

"Not a single practice should be missed by you henceforth. If you could be so dashing as to drawl out love songs like that then the Carol would be flawless"

"But ma the Carol is approximately seven months away" a new freshman that goes by the name of Diog states.

"I know, but it's better for us to start preparing early. It's past dismissal now everyone get going" the crowd began dispersing. Although I try my utmost not to get knocked over during the stampede, it seems my efforts aren't even worth much.

My but still ends up on the floor with huge footprints all over my flannel and jeans.

"Trouble getting away?" Merton asked, gracefully thrusting out his left hand. I reach for it, blushing slightly as he pulled me up. "You're a mess" he began dusting the dust off my clothes. I thank him gratefully.

"You were great. I didn't know you still do sing? Also like I don't remember when last I saw you this much" Merton was Lorenfield's star student and was always away to one school convention or the other. Not that their wasn't other brainy kids around but trust me, in a school were popularity rules, even the most brilliant won't get recognized.

"Well you know just how great our school is. I've tried talking them into picking you but they just won't budge. Seems they need the cash as well" he whispers the last part so I wouldn't feel bad recalling just how poor I am.

"Me? Trust me I wouldn't wish much to be in your shoes... Plus Aunt.... " I shook my head resignedly." Forget it. The role suits you"

"Tell me something" he slings an arm over my neck, tucking me into his massive side. I took a deep inhale of his minty cologne, a scent I can't help getting used to. I'm surprised I don't shiver at the contact of our body, something I do a lot more when I have jocks like him surround me. That's to say that I'm getting comfortable to everyone around and can't help loosening up a little. "Why do you always call her Aunt? Does the stepmother business not really suit her much?"

"As much as I'd love to disagree, I just can't. It's what she wants to be called"

"But her children call her Mother" he prodded with a brow raised.

"I don't know what to say but that's just the way things are for me. If she doesn't want me to call her that then so be It" I answer back with my tone slightly annoyed. I hated talking about my family and the new trouble they bring me everyday.

"I'm sorry" he apologized, looking at me directly this time, causing my cheeks to burn even more. The mere sight of his blonde hair makes me see stars.

He's so beautiful.

"I didn't realize you had a hard life"

"You wouldn't call it hard if you get used to it" I politely shrugged his hand off. "But first let me ask you, why'd you kiss me earlier?"

I notice his cheeks turn a bright red. "Um...I..... Have. N-no.. " he began stuttering, sending me into giggling fits. Gawd he looked so cute and adorable right now.

"I have to go" he sprinted off, out the entrance and into his car. I couldn't help coughing a bit at the amount of dust his car creates as he zooms off, leaving me in confusion.

A sagging wrap.