CHAPTER 7

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For the past twenty minutes, I've been sitting here all by myself in the library, reading random magazines that is available below the table I'm occupying. It's enough to accommodate my spare time since we don't have classes at this hour.

It's been two days since I came to know Agnes. Actually, I did a background check on her. Don't get me wrong, I'm not a stalker or anything. We have this Campus blog, and everything you want to know about the school is indicated inside. I typed her name in the search engine, and after a couple of seconds, I saw her picture. She's in the school band. A rock band. The picture was taken last year, during the Acquaintance Party. She was wearing total black again. As I look for more information, I found out that she's the Lead Singer of the band, and she's using a rhythm guitar as well. More like Avril Lavigne.

As I keep on scrolling the mouse downward, I found the 'Campus Jocks' articles. I clicked it and the first article is about the Basketball Team. And I was in awe. They gained so many trophies last year, but they didn't make it to the Nationals. They lost to the Sheratons. Looking into the players profile, I found his -Lucas'. He's the Power Forward of the team. Well, I don't know what that role means. Scrolling through his achievements, he was the MVP of last years District Meet, and the MVP of City Meet. Just how good is he?

Since I was at their profile already, I looked for Shawn as well. He was chosen as the Team Captain for two reasons: He is tall. So tall that suit his muscles perfectly, and he was one of the best trainee in the NBA Clinic. Wow.

And yes, knowing them all, it's clearly defined that I'm not in their level. Shoot me now.

After recalling my research mission and putting the magazines below the table, I decided to read the book mom bought me when we went shopping.

I was really occupied by the story because it's the part where Mr. Ashenbert needs to leave Jane due to some family matters. Damn. Why do rich people also want to control love like this? He has to marry that rich woman, a family friend's daughter for the sake of saving their riches. I'm almost close into sobbing when I noticed a familiar figure within my peripheral vision.

As I turned my head to the right, I saw a man named Lucas Nashlin. He's standing between the book shelves. He's wearing a white V-neck shirt partnered with a black coat making him look so formal... And attractive. Topping it off, he is wearing black leather shoes.

As if he felt my stares, he tilted his head in my direction. Holding the rim of his glasses while carefully looking at me. Can you imagine how cool is he right now?

Knowing it's me, he closed his book and started walking towards to where I'm sitting. I feel this little thump on my chest, like a giant stoop on my very heart seeing him smiling at me brightly.

"Well hello there.", putting his book on the table before sitting in front of me.

"What are you doing here alone?", asking him and looking at his book. Wait! He's reading Management?

"Nothing. Chillin maybe." Taking off his glasses, "So, how're you two?" Narrowing his eyes.

"Me and Agnes? Uhm, dunno." Rubbing my palm. "Awkward? I guess. But, it's not like she's rejecting me or what not."

"Well, I guess her attitude is based on how you treat her." Leaning back in the chair, crossing his arms over his chest.

Whenever he talks, he seem to know every little thing. Like he's sure of what he's saying even if it's just based on his perceptions. You can hear no doubt in his voice. I always see confidence in his eyes. He can stare at someone for a long period of time, not even looking away for a second.

"And... How would you know that?" Grabbing the book from his hands.

"Because I know that'." Giving me that cool smirk.

"And why do you read this?" Instantly changing the topic. Curiosity kills a cat.

"And does it matter?", leaning forward and placing his right hand under his chin.

"Nahh. Just curious, not like we have this subject. I was just thinking." Giving the book back to him.

He started asking randomly, personal stuffs like where do I live, why I am studying here. Then jumping off to my favorite color and food. Then asking off why I didn't join any clubs or organization, then going back to my favorites. He is like an unorganized slum book.

I asked him some questions but he answer stupidly. Like when I asked him where he lives, he said he lives in Narnia. I asked him for his favorite color, and he said rainbow with white. So I gave up. No matter how hard I try to know him more, I would be hearing crazy answers. Two questions are enough to give up.

***

Mr. Ford started his lesson and as usual, everyone except me are not listening. I keep on taking down notes, I need to perfect my exams.

He gave us homework and he reminded us about our project. He stood up and started writing on the board. An all capital- all bold - fifty font size 'NO PROJECT, NO EXAM' was written that made almost everyone gasped. Mr. Ford knew that half of the class doesn't give a damn to his project.

Jenny, one of the chipmunks, approached me. She grabbed the sticky note I'm holding, wrote something - the homework Mr. Ford gave us, and then shoved it in my bag.

I gave her no response before she's out of the room.

I didn't know Lucas was there. He stared at me, his eyes clearly saying he's against it. I smiled and shook my head. "Get used to it, Lil Lu. And besides, you told me before you wont interfere with my major role." Sounding melodramatic.

"Shut up." He helped me pack my bag. "Were going to Shawn's."

"Today?! Now?! You should've told me that sooner!" I hurriedly took my phone from my pocket and I called mom. Remember I told you she hates it whenever I'm going out without permission? Ugh.

I dialed her number and after three rings she answered. "Hi mom, it's Sab." I can hear the busy crowd around her here.

"Oh yes, dear? Why did you call? Anything important?"

"Ahm, mom, I just want ya to know, I'm going to Shawn's. He's my classmate. We have this project that is due next week, and we'll be doing it now. Since my group mates will be busy the next days." I talked in a sprint way.

"Woah Sab. Calm down. You talk so fast! But okay, don't be late. Be home before dinner. I'll prepare something... And I have some good news for you, honey." She said, emphasizing the word 'good'.

"Yes, mom. I'll be home before seven. And I know you don't wanna talk that good news here on the phone. So bye mom, love you."

"Love you too." And with that, she hung up.

I sighed with relief. In situations like this, I need to notify her at least a day before I go out. It's a nice thing she's having a good vibes today.

"Really? You still need permission?!" Lucas asked while laughing at me. "Kid."

"Shut up. Mom just loves me so much. And, I'm a girl. So I think it's normal to let my parent know where I'm going. Duhh." I told him. I glared daggers at him then I walked faster than normal.

"Oi wait!" Keeping his pace beside me. "I find it cute!" Then he grinned.

"Get lost, Lucas!" I shouted at him. I'm not mad, i'm just somehow ashamed.

"I wont be lost! I know this place so well!" He's mocking me.

We reached the parking lot and find Agnes and Shawn there. Agnes is sitting at the back part of the car. When she noticed us, she yelled.

"What took you so long?! I almost spent my entire life covering my eyes so I won't see him and her making out!" She's pointing Shawn and a girl, making out in front of the car. Agnes looked at them and then covered her eyes again. "Oh my gosh! My innocence!"

We laughed at her. She has this gross reaction painted all over her face.

"Hey Shawn! Try to take cover sometimes, will ya?!" Lucas yelled.

"Sure. Next time." He answered. He gave her one last kiss before going inside the car and started the engine.

"Gross." I whispered while taking my sit at the back car.

"Could be worse." Agnes replied, and with that, we all laughed.

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