Chapter #5

As the final bell rang, signaling the end of the class, I gathered my things and made my way out of the classroom. I was looking forward to getting home and relaxing after a long day of classes, only one more class left till my dream was a reality.

As I walked through the crowded hallway, I caught sight of Emma and Caleb up ahead. They were deep in conversation, and I didn't want to interrupt, so I hung back and waited for them to finish.

When they finally noticed me, they smiled and greeted me warmly. Caleb even offered to walk me to my next class, which I gratefully accepted.

As we walked together, I couldn't help but feel a sense of comfort and ease in Caleb's presence. He was such a good listener and always knew how to make me laugh.

When we arrived at my math class, I said goodbye to Caleb and made my way inside. I found my seat and pulled out my textbooks, trying to focus on the lesson at hand.

But my mind kept wandering, replaying the events of the day over and over again. I couldn't help but think about James and his frustratingly obnoxious personality, it was bad enough that he was a self absorbed jock but he was also a know it all (I know that sounds hypocritical but he's worse). I was annoyed that I had been paired with him for chemistry and math, especially when I had hoped to work with Caleb.

I tried to push those thoughts aside and focus on the lesson, but it was no use. My mind was too preoccupied.

Finally, the bell rang, signaling the end of the school day. I gathered my things unable to wait to my way outside, where I would be greeted by the warm afternoon sun.

As I walked to my locker, I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief that the day was finally over. I was looking forward to a quiet night at home, where I could relax and clear my head.

But as I opened my locker, I was surprised to see a note stuck to the inside of the door. It read, "Meet me by the oak tree after school. -James"

I couldn't help but feel a sense of intrigue and annoyance as I read the note. What could he possibly want to talk to me about? I felt a mix of excitement and trepidation but quickly passed it off as exasperation as I made my way towards the oak tree. I was only going there to see what he wanted nothing more.

As I approached, I saw James leaning casually against the trunk, looking as cool, collected and ignorant as ever. He grinned when he saw me, and I couldn't help but feel a flutter in my chest. 'Flutter of vexation' I thought to myself

"So, what's up?" I asked, obviously peeved about the delay in my plans.

"I just wanted to apologize for being a jerk earlier," he said, his expression softening. "I know we got off on the wrong foot, and I want to make it up to you."

I was surprised by his words, and for a moment, I didn't know what to say. Maybe there was more to him than just his cocky exterior. No, what was I thinking, he was still a molestation.

"Apology declined." I replied in a monotone voice.

He looked confused, he obviously wasn't expecting that reaction.

I turned curtly to walk away.

"Wait, Ada!" He called after me, but I continued to ignore him.

As I walked away I couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. Was I being too hard on him? Was I just holding onto a grudge for no reason?

I tried to push those thoughts aside as I made my way home, but they lingered in the back of my mind. Maybe James was trying to be genuine, and I was just too stubborn to see it. Emma was right, I always saw the best in everyone why not James? 'Because he's an annoying bastard who only thinks about himself.' a part of my mind argued, 'Well if that were true then why did he apologize?' my brain countered.

It was really annoying when I argued with myself.

As I walked into my house and settled into my room, I knew I needed to make a decision. Did I want to hold onto this grudge forever, or was I willing to give him a second chance? 'You mean a chance? You've never given him one before.' oh shut up me.

It was a tough decision to make, but in the end, I knew what I had to do. I grabbed my phone and texted James, telling him that I was willing to meet up and talk things through. How did I have his number you ask, everyone in the school knows it, also we had to exchange numbers since we were lab partners.

As I waited for his response, I couldn't help but feel a sense of apprehension. Maybe I was making a mistake. But deep down, I knew it was the right thing to do.

A few minutes later, my phone buzzed with a message from James. "Thank you, Ada. I really appreciate it."

I smiled to myself, feeling a sense of relief. Maybe he wasn't the asshole I thought he was, maybe he was a decent guy. I couldn't tell if that's what I was hoping for or against.