I could see stares now directed at me as I walked with Alex. It looked similar to the ones I received when news spread that I was dating Jake. The boys obviously didn't care, but the girls, they seemed to never like me as a person, and they despised the idea of me dating Jake so much that they wanted to drag me to the girls' bathroom and beat me up. However, they couldn't.
They would if given the slightest opportunity, just like they did to Emily, and no one had her back. But in my case, Jake had issued a warning, so they knew better than to mess with him.
Those stares, filled with anger and disgust, were exactly what I was getting, and it made me feel so uncomfortable. Maybe that was why Jake wanted us to continue fake dating, because he knew what they were capable of. In his words, "I don't think it would end up well if we reveal it now." So maybe? But this was just a guess.
"This is the school library," I pointed out, standing just at the entrance of the library. He had asked me to show him around the school as he was just a new student, and I had voluntarily accepted.
"It looks deserted," he said in a mocking tone.
I chuckled softly, knowing that the library's emptiness was quite unusual. "Yeah, well, it's usually busier during lunchtime. Most students prefer to hang out in the cafeteria or courtyard."
Alex nodded, his eyes scanning the rows of neatly organized books. "I guess that makes sense. I've always enjoyed libraries. They're quiet, peaceful places."
"Me too," I admitted. "Whenever I need a break from everything, I come here to read or study. It's like a sanctuary."
As we walked further into the library, Alex asked, "Do you have a favorite book?"
I paused for a moment, thinking. "There are so many great books out there; it's hard to choose just one. But if I had to pick, I'd say 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee. It's a classic."
Alex smiled. "That's a good choice. I haven't read it yet, but I've heard a lot about it."
"Well, maybe one day you'll get the chance to read it," I said, leading him to another section of the library. "Now, let me show you the science section. Are you into science?"
He nodded. "Yeah, I find it fascinating, especially astronomy."
I couldn't help but grin. "In that case, you'll love our school's science club. They have a pretty impressive telescope in the observatory."
"Really?" Alex's eyes lit up with excitement. "I'd love to check that out sometime."
I continued to give him a tour of the school, sharing stories and facts about various places and clubs. With each passing moment, I found myself enjoying our conversation more and more, and the stares from other students didn't seem to bother me anymore.
School was over, and that was a relief. I got all my things packed up and ready to leave for home with Matilda, but as predicted, she chose to stay to hang out with Mark. It was a little disappointing, but I didn't say anything. As long as she was happy, then I was happy.
As I strolled down the stairs, my gaze shifted, and I caught sight of Owen seated on a bench close to the soccer field, with his headphones plugged in. He sat with his gaze fixed on the guys kicking and passing the ball.
I walked to him from behind before sitting down next to him. My hands rubbed my lap as I waited for him to notice my presence, but I guess due to the loud music blasting in his ear, he hadn't noticed.
I stretched my right hand outward and pulled back the headphone from his right ear. "Hey," I called. This startled him, causing him to jump back a little. His gaze turned to me, and he quickly regained his composure.
"Sorry," I muttered.
Owen blinked a few times, his eyes refocusing as he realized it was me. He pulled out the other earphone. "Sorry about that."
I waved it off, not minding his initial startle. "No worries. What were you listening to?"
He hesitated for a moment, as if debating whether to share his music choice. "Just some classical stuff. Helps me relax and clear my mind."
I nodded in understanding, even though he couldn't see it. "That's cool. So, how's your day been?" I said, trying to start small talk since I hadn't seen him since we left the resort.
Owen shrugged, his gaze returning to the soccer field. "Nothing too exciting."
I studied his expression, noticing that he still seemed off. He appeared a bit distant, lost in his thoughts. "Is everything okay, Owen? You seem a bit... I don't know, different." I didn't want to pressure him into speaking because I didn't know how he would react, but still, I had to ask.
He sighed, running a hand through his hair. "It's just... I've got a lot on my mind lately. You know what I mean."
I could only think of one thing.
"That girl," I said, and I heard another sigh escape his lips. Wow, I never realized it was that serious, I mean it was, but…
"If you ever want to talk about it, I'm here. Sometimes, sharing what's bothering you can help."
The side of his lips twisted up, almost visible but it quickly disappeared. "Thanks but now wasn't the good time."
"When you are ready, then." I said, and he nodded.
Nothing else to say, we sat in complete silence, watching the soccer balls as they soared through the air, punctuated by occasional shouts of triumph or frustration from the players. The sun bathed the field in a warm, golden light, casting long shadows that danced across the grass.
My mind buzzed with thoughts about Owen. I couldn't shake the feeling that something more was troubling him, and it upset me a little to see him like this. I wished I could do more to help, but I respected his need for space.
As I stole glances at Owen, I couldn't help but notice the way the fading sunlight highlighted his features. He had a unique charm, one that had always drawn people toward him. I remembered how I saw him smile for the first time, it was dark though but still… It was a shame he doesn't show that side more often.
Just when the silence between us became almost comfortable, I noticed Samantha approaching. She was one of those girls who seemed to thrive on drama and gossip. Her presence usually meant trouble, and I braced myself for whatever she had in store.
She approached with a confident stride, her perfectly styled hair shimmering in the sunlight. I could already tell that she was in a mischievous mood. "Piper," she purred, her tone dripping with faux sweetness. I hated the way my name sounded in her mouth.
I turned to face her, my expression neutral. "Samantha."
She flashed a smile. "I couldn't help but notice you sitting here with Owen. Is this your new strategy? Ditching Jake for his best friend?"
I clenched my jaw, refusing to let her words get to me. Samantha thrived on stirring up trouble, and I wouldn't give her the satisfaction of a reaction. All this while, Owen remained silent, completely ignoring her presence. "What do you want?"
She raised an eyebrow, her smile widening, which only pissed me off more. "Oh, don't mind me, I just wanted to invite you to a party at my place." She said, and my eyes widened for a brief moment.
"A party?" I muttered. Why would she, of all people, want me to be at her party? Was it to get to Jake? She already seemed interested in him.
She stretched her hand forward, revealing an invite card. I stared at her outstretched hand, contemplating what to do. I bit down on my lips.
"Here," she tried to force it into my hands, but Owen stopped her by taking the card instead. She looked stunned for a moment, as did I.
Owen quietly examined the card, "seems fun," he said. "I would be free then."
I couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at his unexpected response, while Samantha stood with a stunned look. He seemed rather nonchalant about the whole situation.
Samantha quickly regained her composure, her smile returning as she turned her attention to Owen. "That's great to hear!" She shot a sly glance in my direction.
I could feel my annoyance growing, and I blurted out. "Samantha, if you have something to say, just say it." Let's get to the point. I didn't trust her one bit, and she was definitely up to something.
"Don't get your panties in a bunch, you should think about it too; it's going to be a party to remember." A night to remember or a night of trouble.
With that, Samantha strolled away, leaving me feeling somewhat uneasy.