Four

Opal's point of view

I put down my book, hearing the dismissal bell rang. I just finished my last class of the day, Algebra. Rriel shouldn't lead Emmy on like that? Does he love her or not?

Grayson and I have this class together too. I haven't thanked him earlier. Do I even know how to speak to him? What if I make a fool out of myself?

My feet slowly move towards the exit. I want to speak to him. But how? What should I say? Looking at the ground, I would notice those shoes anywhere. Richard.

"I got your backpack and books for your locker slowpoke," he tells me.

"Thanks." I look up and smile.

"Opal, wait." I hear behind me from a voice I wasn't expecting.

I look back, hoping not to appear shocked. I smile awkwardly.

"Want to umm seat with me on the bus?" Grayson asks, rubbing the back of his neck?

Does he want to sit with me? Why?

I don't think so," I say nervously while playing with my hair.

"I won't bite," he chuckles. My mom said to make a new friend today.

"Okay."

"Great," Grayson smiles.

Grabbing my backpack from Richard, I can see the confusion on his face.

" You'll be alright sitting on your own today?" I look and smile at Richard.

"I will get some writing done," he returns my smile with a grin. I will have to explain everything to him. I am not sure. I understand myself.

Grayson reaches for my hand. I jump at his touch. I wasn't exactly a winner in the boy department. As a matter of fact, I am in high school, and I never even had a boyfriend.

"Sorry," says Grayson with a grin. I need to act cool. Okay, that would take a lot of acting. I need to appear at least normal.

I smile and take his hand. He chuckles. My eyes notice Richard watching me. He looks very surprised. I am sure he's not as astonished as I am. Grayson and I walk hand in hand to the bus. I notice everyone is watching us. Swallowing hard, my stomach begins to hurt. The world is spinning. I hate all eyes on me.

"Are you okay?" I hear Grayson ask.

I nod my head.

"Just ignore them," says Grayson as he squeezes my hand.

He's right. Who cares what they think.

Moments later, I sit on the bus with Grayson. It feels weird not sitting with Richard. I hope he handles it alright.

"So, what are you reading?" asks Grayson, placing a hand on the book in my lap?

"Kingdom Of Aquablue, Richard actually wrote it," I say with a proud smile.

"Wow, that's impressive," he remarks.

" It's an interesting read."

"Are you two an item?" he asks.

"Me and Richard?" I never thought anyone would think we were together.

"You two seem like you're invincible," he responds.

"We are friends," I grin.

"Good," he winks at me. I feel my check turn red.