Page 76 of Twisting You

Xavier looked bored as he studied the long line ahead of him. It only took a few minutes before he stiffened, clearly picking up on my scent. His head snapped over in my direction.

Our eyes locked. Of course this would happen now. I hadn’t seen him since I left him in my room. Did I feel bad about it? Maybe.

“Chloe,” Xavier greeted me with a half smile. Shit, when had he walked over here?

Xavier glanced at Cole. My eyes were glued to the side of his face. Why, why, why, why, WHY! Couldn’t I just have one night away from all our garbage!

“Cole.” Cole reached out a hand and shook Xavier’s. They shared a few words before Xavier’s eyes pieced mine.

“So how do you two know each other?” Cole asked. I couldn’t pull my eyes away from Xavier to see Cole’s expression.

“He is my teacher,” I finally muttered. Xavier’s eyes only narrowed with anger as I spoke. Gulping, I pulled my eyes away from Xavier and glared at the table.

“I always think it’s weird seeing teachers outside of class,” Cole said lightly, trying to make conversation.

“Tell me about it,” I muttered, not looking up.

“Chloe, can I have a word?” Xavier grunted.

“I’m sure whatever it is can wait till class,” I huffed.

“Chloe. Now.” Xavier turned quickly and stormed away. Clearly I was meant to follow him.

“Sorry,” I said to Cole, rolling my eyes and dragging my feet to follow Xavier, who had walked outside.

Xavier leaned against the brick wall, crossing his arms. “Who’s he?”

“A friend.” I crossed my own arms. He wants to be defensive. I will be defensive.

“So you can manage to hang out with new friends. But you couldn’t bring yourself to call me and tell me you were alright.”

“Why wouldn’t I be alright?”

“Come on, Chloe. You know a lot happened.”

“Whatever. I’m over it.”

“Don’t lie.”

“I’m not lying.” I stamped my foot. “Why can’t you just leave me alone?”

“Just when I think you are mature enough to handle a mature conversation, you turn around and show me how immature you really are.”

I remained silent and glared at the sidewalk. “Done yet?”

“Chloe, I miss you.”

“Xavier, I’m sick of you.”

His face went blank.

“Kidding.” I smiled weakly. “I don’t feel like fighting.” Sighing, I uncrossed my arms and looked him in the eye. “I’ll see you in class.”

My shoulder brushed against his as I walked past him. I placed my hand on the door. Xavier twisted around quickly and placed his hand over mine.

“I miss you,” Xavier whispered in my ear and I closed my eyes tightly. Pulling the door open, my elbow hit his chest, but I couldn’t bring myself to turn around and check if I hurt him. Because once our eyes locked, I struggled to remember my name.

I felt Xavier walk in behind me, but walked back in Cole’s direction, keeping my eyes on him. Cole frowned slightly at me as I approached.

---