Chapter 11- Not Edited

<Collin's Perspective>

I was at Bruce's party, because what else am I supposed to do on a Saturday night? His parties were legendary, and someone had to be the designated driver to Josh and the gang. We all knew it wouldn't be him because he tends to lack self control, so here I was. Especially since we were the ones from a different school. Although it is all fun and games, some people didn't think we should associate with them, because we were "the enemy." Off the field, these guys were our friends, me and Bruce's moms are good friends actually.

Plus, I wanted to be here just in case Josh offended too many people. He tended to do that a lot lately. Speaking of offending people, I wonder if she would be here. The one they all talk about. The quarterback that gives me a run for my money. Not to mention that makes me nervous as heck to be around. I doubt she would be, after her episode on the park bench. That is what confused me, though. She seems so independent and strong, but then I find her alone and vulnerable. I think there is a lot more to her than all of the girls I've met combined. And that is what intrigued me the most.

Josh left to go get drunk out of his brains and to hook up with girls. Me and the rest of the gang went into the kitchen to get drinks. I, of course, grabbed a coke from the fridge. The rest settled on the mixed "punch" in coolers. The rest of us dispersed except for me and Elliot were the only two left behind. Which I was completely fine with.

That is when I heard Bruce shouting from the living room, "Someone help me I don't know how to deal with this! I've never been around when she's had one!" Me and Elliot exchanged a concerned look. I knew not many people would hear him over the music so I rushed even faster to see what was the matter.

My heart fell when I saw who was sitting on the floor. The one who ran through my thoughts just moments before. Andy (Andrea) Swanson, quarterback. She threw for 8,261 yards, and that wasn't including this year. She had over 100 touchdowns on her record, and was one of the top 5 ranked in the state. All of that I knew because you have to keep up on the competition. However, it didn't help that she was mine. She had pure talent, drive, and determination on the field. I just hoped I could know her off the field. For instance, why was her last name Swanson? I had heard that it wasn't her parents' last name.

My mind immediately refocused when I saw just how shattered she was. Tears had started to form in the corners of her eyes and she was zoned out. Without thinking, I crouched down beside her and wrapped my arms around her shaking body. At first I regretted making contact with her without her permission. However, I immediately dismissed the thought when she started to calm down. Her breathing was still uneven and sharp, but her body was no longer shaking.

I don't know how long we stayed like that, but I was pulled out of my trance when Bruce spoke up. "Someone should get her out of here. She is in no state to stay at a party where something gave her a panic attack."

"Who'd she come with?" I asked, trying to find out who'd take her home, as well as figuring out if there was a guy here with her.

"Probably Olive, that's who always drags her to parties. Hang on, I'll go find her." Bruce explained, disappearing into the crowd of bodies currently on the dance floor. Moments later he arrived with a girl, who I presume was Olive.

She was already drunk, so that idea was a bust. I had no idea what me and Bruce should do. Olive was in no condition to drive her friend home, and I'm guessing Andy was like me... Designated Driver. So, that means I would probably be taking them home, but what about the gang? And how the heck was I supposed to know where there home was? Bruce helped my thoughts by taking charge.

"Okay Collin, here is the plan... Since she seems okay with you, and Olive is "happy" why don't you take them home. You are one of the few I trust to do this cause the rest are pigs, I mean you saw what happened last time she met Josh. Speaking of, don't worry about the guys, they can crash here and I will send a driver to take them back tomorrow. Your one concern right now is about them. Take Olive home first, because her parents aren't home so that will be the easy one. That will give Andy time to calm down before she deals with her situation. As for Andy's vehicle... I'm guessing she took her bike here, so she can come over with Olive tomorrow and pick it up. I will also give you their addresses." He paused for a minute to make sure I was comprehending all of this.

"Yea man, I've got this. Don't worry they will both be home safe." I assured him, even though he still seemed a bit skeptical.

"Now, remember, Andy is like my little sister, so if I hear of any funny business you will be hearing from me. Take care of them, and call me if you need anything."

I reluctantly let go of Andy to stand up. And with that Bruce leaned down to whisper something in her ear. She nodded, seemingly regaining her composure almost fully. She still looked a little frazzled, but was able to stand shakily to her feet. But then she started to sway so I put my hand on her arm to steady her. She gave me a quiet 'thank you' and I looked around for Olive. She had already wandered off to a few feet away.

"Olive!" I called, instantly feeling the need to leave. It could just be nerves, but I had a gut instinct that something bad was going to happen if we didn't. She came bouncing over, but before we could make our way to the exit, Josh was standing in front of us.

"Where do you think you are going with her?" He asked, with a tint of anger underlying his tone.

"We are leaving, and you are staying here Josh. She's had a rough time so, for once, can you please just back off?" It was a question, but I wasn't really looking for a response.

"Oh yeah? And why should I? If I can't get her what makes you think you can?" I almost lost it but instead I just took a sharp breath.

"Josh, this is not just some game. She is not a plaything. Now move." For some reason he did move. It was only then that I realized Bruce had moved him. They started arguing, so I took a moment to make sure I still had both Olive and Andy with me, check.

"Josh, knock it off. Need I remind you of Tina? Yea, that's what I thought, no get your butt back to the party where it belongs, not here messing with these girls." With that Josh grumpily stalked away muttering something about the 'dang French.' Changing the word of course. I gave a quick thanks to Bruce and with that the three of us were out the door.