chapter 6

Wow! Everything has actually changed. From the food, the people, the weather, the language, school, friends and everything that has to deal with moving to a new place. Okay, so you might be wondering why the change. This' what happened.

~ Flashback~

Knock! Knock! "Come in", my Physics teacher responds.

"Eerm, please I've been sent by the headmistress to call someone by name Charlie Kent."

Me! Why would 'me' of all people be summoned by the mistress? I look at my bestie Tee Jay who sits right beside me, she just shrugs. I know she's as confused as I am.

"Charlie?" My teacher calls.

"Yes, please." I respond.

"You're excused to go and see the headmistress.”

"Thank you." I walk out of the class. 

~Headmistress' Office~

"Good morning, Mrs Hart."

"Hello dear, how are you doing this beautiful morning?" She smiles brightly.

"I am very well, thank you. I'm Charlie Kent and I was told that you want to see me."

"Yes, yes. Charlie. I've got some exciting news for you. Your mother will be here today t-" I cut her off with excitement.

"What! Mother? I cut her short. Oh My God I'm so happy but it's not yet visiting and school rules state that students are not allowed to see any relative on any other day apart from visiting day."

I'm a final year boarder in one of the best girl high schools in the country. 

"Yes, you're right. That's very good to know that one of my girls has the school rules in mind. Hahaa!" She chuckles staring into space with a dreamy look.

"Umm, Mrs Hart?" She was creeping me out.

"Oh my, so sorry dear, just a little bubbly this morning, you know, I had a very awesome night", she winks.

"I wish it didn't have to end...", she sees my discomfort and goes back to being a headmistress, "well I have a school to run so...ahem! Back to your situation."

"Charlie, you're leaving the school.”

"W-what?", I choke on my words, “Did I do something wrong?"

"Oh no no, you did nothing wrong. Your mother and father came here yesterday, their main reason was to sign some documents and inform me that you're leaving the country."

"Leaving the country? Why?"

"That's for your parents to tell."

"Okay?" I'm so confused.

"Charlie!" Mrs. Hart snaps.

"Yes ma'am?" I answered startled.

"Did you hear anything I said?"

"N-no?"

"No?" She rolls her eyes. "I said we're heading to your dormitory to pack your things." I nod and follow her out of the office.

I finish packing my things and now we, Mrs Hart and I, are in her office.

"I just sent for your friend to bring you your school bag."

"Thank you."

"So how do you feel about this?" Mrs Hart asks.

"About what exactly?"

"You know, the change you're going to face."

"Oh well, I'm confused the most, I'm sad and I'm happy. There's a lot in my head right now."

Before she could say anymore, Tee Jay walked in. 

"Good afternoon Mrs Hart. I've brought Charlie's bag." She said pointing to my bag.

"Okay thank you dear."

"You're welcome." Tee Jay responds handing me my bag.

Seeing her didn't only make me happy but also made me realise I was gonna miss her so much. We had a lot of memories together.

She's fair and has a few blackspots on her face, she's also short and wears glasses, she also looks like a Chinese in her own special kinda way and most of all she's beautiful and she's a brilliant girl and not forgetting funny and friendly. 

"Mrs Hart?"

When she gave me her attention, “can I speak to Tee Jay for a minute or so?” I asked. 

"No problem honey." She nods.

"Thanks and excuse us." I leave the office with my friend.

"Charlie?" Tee Jay sounded so worried. The only time she was this worried was when her pet dog died.

"Tee Jay?" I gulped.

"What's happening? I can see you things." She points at where my suitcase and other things were.

"You let's sit down and I'll tell you everything I know."

"I'm leaving the school and most of all the country", I said in one breath. Before I knew it we were hugging and she was smiling and had tears streaming down our faces and she was nodding to show she understood me. 

"I'm so happy for you”, she said between sobs. "Make us all proud okay?"

"Okay."

"I'm gonna miss you so much but don't forget to text me whenever you're free. Okay? And if you don't, you already know what's gonna happen to you."

"Yes I think I know." She chuckle.

"Before you ask of how I'm going to tell Avery and the others...."

"Heyyyy! I'm not dumb." She hits me playfully.

"Yeah, sure I'll remember that."

 Avery is my bestie she's also very pretty and acts like a child but can get so serious at times. She can draw very well too. That's her talent. Zian is also are friend though we don't hear from her that much, thanks to boarding school. She's sooo cool and beautiful and also brilliant. She does well with make-up just like Tee Jay and I. 

We just talked about random things and laughed and gave each other bone breaking hugs like we were indirectly telling each other we're gonna hold on no matter what. 

"Hey Char?"

"Yeah?"

"You know I love you, well we all do. How can someone not love you?"

That made me laugh a little. "As I was saying, we love you and want the best for you so all I'll say is study hard to achieve the A's, before the B's, considering the C's, deleting the D's, eliminating the E's and most of all forgetting the F's."

"Awww, that's so creative. Thank you. Love youuuu."

"Yeah, I know, I know."

"Okay but I think mine ends at the B's", she just laughs and says, “oh yeah, forgot you're a nerdie nerd". She teases. "Just like you, my dear bestieee."

"One more thing Char."

"Yeah, what is it, my noble adviser?"

"Get a BOYFRIEND", she screams, yes, that's how crazy she can be.

"W-what?"

"Get a B...." I cover her mouth before she could say more.

"I heard you the first time dearie."

"Okay, I mean we're in senior year and you're still single. Well if you don't...."

"I know, I know." Tee Jay and Avery have somehow in their own way planned my life cause they think I don't have time to do so. Classic friends. 

"Good to know that you remember."

"Hahaa very funny Tee Jay but no promises, I'll try. I don't think anyone will want me there."

"Don't say that, you've got the style, the brain and all that females could ever want. Where exactly are you moving to anyways?"

"She's moving to London and for study purposes only. Nothing more nothing less", a voice said. I knew the owner of that voice none other than... father.

Just great! 

"Honey, please relax", mother said.

What? I'm sure they both realised what she just said judging from the look of discomfort on their faces. Well she just called father 'honey'.

 My parents are divorced, I have a step-mom and two younger step brothers, Daniel and Max. I also have three sisters who share the same blood as me. I'm the second born of the six children my three parents have had. I have an elder sister she's called Wina, she's two years older than me. There's also Fii and Ann, my younger sisters. I love my family so much. Despite all that we've been through we're still strong. Father still cares and my step-mom, Melissa, she's great.

"Sorry", mother says nervously. 

"It's okay, let's just get to the situation at hand." Father says.

I move from Tee Jay's side to my parents and hug them both. Mother pulls my cheeks. "You're growing big." 

Father being father just says, "we hope you're studying too."

"Yes father. I am."

"You've heard about you moving to London."

"Yes I just did." 

"Your mother was the one going to London but she decided it was best for you to go."

"What? Mother why? This is a great opportunity for you."

"Yes I know dear, but I have to take care of your siblings and you know your father is busy and can't do so." She's right. Step-mom is as busy as them.

"So I expect you to study hard, you'll be staying with your aunt, Lena and her husband Arnold." 

"Okay and what about school?" I asked.

"You'll be starting on Monday but you'll be writing some tests and so you need to prepare. Okay?" Father said. I nod.

"Soo... I hate to interrupt a family reunion but you need to sign some documents and then you can take your daughter away." The headmistress said. 

After my parents had signed the documents, I said my goodbyes mostly to Tee Jay. 

The rest of the of the week was full of packing, shopping and a little change in my appearance; mother took me to a salon to braid my long black hair, it hurt at first but I dwelled with the pain. I also spent some time with my siblings, I'm really gonna miss 'em.

The day finally came for me to leave. Mother and father escorted me to the airport and gave me bone-breaking hugs each until I was on verge of losing my breath. 

"Too-tight-about-to-die." I said between breaths. Mother just giggled but I could sense that she was sad. 

"Hey? Mom I'm going to be fine." I smile. "I am going to study, have fun, make friends, voice and video call both of you whenever I'm free."

"Okay darling. Hope you remember your aunt from when she visited?" Mother asked. 

"Yes, I do. How can I forget her?"

"Well she'll be picking you up from the Heathrow's Airport."

"Okay."

"Well I guess this is goodbye." Father who hasn't spoken much since we got to the airport said.

"No, this is talk to you soon."

"Alright. Be a good girl kiddo. Make good friends not one's who'll push you into bad things." 

"Dad." I knew he was referring to the other day with Tee Jay. "She was just joking."

"Yeah right." He scoffed unconvinced. 

"Well it's time for me to go." I said giving them one last hug. 

"Byeeeeee baby." Mother screeched getting a few stares but she cared less. That's the mother I knew and the one I was gonna miss so much. Father too.

I was actually gonna miss everyone even the annoying ones like me. Fact; annoying people make life kinda interesting. I thought as I boarded the plane and took the seat I was assigned to. 

The flight was long enough to bore me, though I got into a short conversation a guy who sat beside me. I took some pictures on my phone and tag them #boredom. The guy who sat beside me complimented me on my phone case which I made myself. I really like these Do It Yourself (DIY) hacks, they give me the opportunity to try new things by myself.

I slept for a while and was awoken by the voice of the air hostess through the intercom informing as that we would be landing soon. Within ten minutes we were at Heathrow's Airport. The place was so crowded and busy. Well I had this funny feeling in my tummy that usually happens when I'm nervous or when I meet new people but I know my aunt and her husband already. That's what I thought until someone tapped me from behind.

I was taken aback by what she did. She just hugged me tight and said, "we're gonna have soooo much fun." Standing in front of me was a girl about my age, a little bit tall, straight dark hair, full lips, wearing a white t-shirt with blue jeans and a black leather jacket, matched with her black boots. I liked her immediately. Besides that she looked familiar. 

I couldn't speak. That's not like me at all. What's happening to me? I screamed in my head.

"I know what you're thinking." She said. Really darling, do you?

"Okay, hi I'm Cleo." I nod for her to continue. "I'm your aunt's daughter who is my mom. She sent me to pick you up. I came with my crush who apparently doesn't know that I have a crush on him. Please don't tell him. He came for your bags." I look at my sides to see that my bags are no longer with me and see a well built guy our age walking our way, who I assume is my cousin's crush. Shhh! He's so cute.

"Wow! That's a lot of info on our first meeting don't you think?" I say smirking at my cousin Cleo who just chuckles. 

"Hey, I'm Ian and you must be my princess' cousin Charlie." Ian says giving me his hand. I see Cleo blush a little which I think is cute.

I return the kind gesture and smile.

"Yes that's me! All time best cousin even though she doesn't know me that much." I said receiving a chuckle from both of them. 

"We're sisters now. Right?" Cleo asks.

"Of course we are, honey."

"Sister and crush selfie!" Cleo exclaimed. It seems she didn't notice what she said because she took the picture anyways. She said the word 'crush' without realising it. Oh no.

Well Ian did and he seemed quite uncomfortable. "Are we just gonna stay here or are we going home?" I said trying to release the tension I felt.

"Y-yes besides I have to get going. My mom called to tell me to umm come feed the cow." Ian scratches the back of his neck nervously.

"You have a cow? That I never knew of?" Cleo asked.

I knew the guy was lying. Right in front of my now all time sister and she didn't notice it. I mean come on it's written all over his face Cleo, can't you see?

"Okay, bye guys and it was nice meeting you Char." Ian said and gave as quick hugs and giving Cleo a peck on the cheek which made her grin widely.

"Bye my noble Prince." Cleo said dreamily.

Once Ian was gone Cleo pulled me to where she packed the car and pulled me to the front seat. The front seat reminded me of my little siblings who always fought for the front seat until one day father decided that I was the only one who could sit there unless we're with any other grownups. My siblings didn't like that at all. The thought made me chuckle lightly. 

"What are you thinking about?" Cleo inquired.

"My siblings. I miss them so much." I replied. 

"Hey! You just got here." She pouted. 

"I know, sorry but you look cute and I love your outfit." I complimented. 

"Awww. Thanks honey." She said.

"I would really love to hear that from my prince." She mumbled quietly probably thinking I didn't hear. I have very sharp ears. They can pick up the slightest sound. Only if she knew what she had said earlier. I'm gonna tell her but not now.

"Sooo?" I started.

"What?"

"How are your brothers?" Cleo has brothers who are twins and are so hot but I'm not crushing or anything like that and besides they're my brothers.

“Wait. You know my brothers?”

"Yup." I said popping the 'p'. "We used to text but I haven't heard from them lately."

"Okay?" She shudders looking at me weirdly.

"What? No biggie. We're gonna have fun." 

"Yeah, I know." She smiles.

"Well here we are. Home Sweet Home." Cleo said in her British accent which I happen to love.

She helped me with my bags. We entered the house and were greeted by the scent of food.

"Cleo? Is that you?" Aunt Lena asked and poked her head out of the kitchen. Her eyes widen and she gasped as she saw me. 

Oh I'm so not ready for 'you've grown so big since the last time I saw you'.

"Oh my, I missed you so much Charlie!" Aunt Lena exclaimed and hugged me tightly.

"Feelings mutual, but you know I'm going to be here for a long time so we can do more hugs then or if you want we can finish with the hugs now." She hit me playfully on the head and chuckled with Cleo.

"Very funny." Cleo chuckled.  "I know right." Aunt said sounding more like a teenager. I smiled, "I get that a lot."

"Of course honey, I can never get enough of you." Aunt chuckled making me grin wider.

"Cleo go and help your sister unpack and get ready for dinner. Your dad will be home soon." Aunt said. 

"Are we really sisters?" Cleo asked. 

"Of course. Listen, in Ghana my mother's sister's children are my siblings. Making you, Cleo, my sis." I answered. 

"Oh the joy and honour." Cleo sighed dramatically making me chuckle. 

"The best part is, WE'RE GONNA BE  ROOMIES!" Cleo exclaimed. 

"Wooooooo! We're gonna have so much fun. #Cleo and Charlie." I hoot.

Cleo giggles opening a cream coloured door which led to a magenta coloured room with blue designs on the wall. It also had a  built-in-closet with drawers painted white, an en-suite on the left side of the room, two beds which were laid to perfection with blue bed spreadsheets, a dressing table and stool, mirror, bookshelf filled with different coloured books and a side table and chair which had a laptop and books which I assumed belongs to Cleo, there are also some writings like; 'wild and free', 'dream, wake up, kick ass and repeat' I smiled at the writings taking in the beautiful room. 

"Earth to Charlie?" Cleo snaps her fingers drawing me out of my trance.

"Welcome to my sanctuary. It's not always this clean. It took some ice cream and other snacks to get this clean." I chuckle. "Lemme guess, mom bribed you."

"Yes. Does your mom do that too?" She laughs. I chuckle and nod.

"It's so beautiful. I could stay forever." I say dreamily.

"Wait till you see the rest of London." She smiles.

"Here's your bed." She points to one of the beds which had a uniforms laid on it.

"Are these my uniform for school?"

"Yes, dear. I bet you'll look pretty in them. On Fridays we are allowed to wear our own clothes." I nod.

The uniform consists of a white blouse and black skirt with blue tie and V-neck jumpers and long socks.

"Thanks but I'll like to charge my phone."

Cleo puts my phone on charge close to her laptop and helps me unpack my stuff into the empty drawers and closet. 

"Charlie, you've grown so big and beautiful." Uncle Arnold says. "Thank you Unc but I'm still slim not big."  I'm a brown skin girl, who has black hair, pink lips, a little bit tall and dark eyes. Everything else is proportional. I like to dance and sing, design stuff, talk, swim and run and I love anything chocolatey. I'm a chocoholic. "Hahaa that's right Char but you know what I mean."

"Yes I know." We all laugh.

"Aunt, I really have to say this..., this food tastes awesome." We're having spaghetti bolognese. Aunt Lena has always been a good cook just like mother. I also love to cook a lot. I guess it runs through the family.

"Thanks dear." Aunt says.

We talk for a while and after dinner Cleo and I do the dishes and leave for our room.

"Char? I'm going to have a quick shower. I'll be back soon." Cleo says. I nod my head in response and go back to talking to my mom on the phone.

"...so do you like the place?" Mother asks.

"Of course mother. I love it here. Cleo's room is so amazing." I said. 

"Oh I see you've met Cleo."

"Yes and I'm grateful that I at least have someone who'll be in the same school as me. We even share a room."

"Okay dear it's time for you to go to bed. It's twenty after ten here in Ghana meaning it's twenty after eleven in London. The one hour time difference." Mother says.

"Yes mother. Goodnight and have a sound sleep."

"Goodnight." She says and ends the call.

That's how everything changed but little did I know there's more to come.

"WAKE UP SLEEPYHEAD!" Someone I'm guessing Cleo shouts.

"Hey, hey, hey, I'm up! I'm up!"

"Today's America's birthday." Cleo shouts happily. 

"Who's America?" I ask rubbing my eyes.

"America Watson, she's a very good friend of mine from school and she's throwing a birthday party today which I've been invited to and I'm taking you with me." Cleo says.

"Why do I have to come with you?" I ask.

"Umm I think it will help you get to know some people from school so that you don't have an awkward first day."

"Okay, so what's the dress code?" I ask.

"It's anything crazy." Cleo responds.

"Alright and when are we leaving?"

"You know you ask too much questions right?"

"Yup, now will you answer my question?" I ask getting out of bed and heading towards the bathroom.

"Six in the evening." Cleo answers.

"And is mom aware?" I ask just to annoy her. Aunt is a doctor and isn't always at home. Uncle Arnold is a professor, I'm very sure he's travelling today. 

"Very funny Char." Cleo rolls her eyes. I chuckle. "Oh really, tell me when I'm qualified to be a comedian."

"Char, I'm sure you're not aware it's twelve in the afternoon." Cleo states making my eyes widen.

"What, why did you let me sleep that long?" I ask.

She just shrugs, "dunno."

I quickly brush my teeth, bath and put on a tank top and sweatpants and put my braids in a ponytail. 

"Hey save me some of the food." I tell Cleo who's eating and watching something on her phone.

"I saved you some chips and fish in the microwave." Cleo says. 

"What's the difference between chips and fries?" I ask her as I take my own share.

"According to my dictionary and the explanation it's giving me, they're the same." Cleo states. "They're both potatoes that have been deep fried."

"What are you planning on wearing for the party?" Cleo asks.

"Why do you want to know?"

"I was just wondering. No biggie." She shrugs.

"You'll see. Just wait."

"Whatever sis." She says as she rinses her plate.

"Hurry up and come watch a movie with me miss hottie."

"Heyyy...don't call me that and I'm coming with my food." I shout.

"No shouting hottie. You're right behind me. I can hear you." She chuckles. 

"What are we watching?" I ask.

"Dolittle." She announces.

"I've watched that." I say with my mouth full. 

"I can't hear youuu." Cleo says as I stand to take my plate to the kitchen.

Ding! Dong! Who could it be, I rinse my plate and hands and leave for the door. Cleo beat me to it. 

"...and who's this hot stuff?" The unknown guy asks. 

"Oh come on! Really, Cleo?"

"Heyyy, I didn't do anything." She raises her hands in mock surrender, chuckling.

"Am I missing something hear?" Mr Unknown guy asks.

"Aster, this is my cousin Charlie. Charlie, this is Aster, my male bestie." Cleo introduces us.

"Are you gonna let are star wait outside or is he coming in?" I pull Cleo out of the way for Aster to enter.

"Thanks hottie. How did you know the meaning of my name?" Aster asks.

"I guessed." He smiles, "interesting."

"Is the cousin going to give the bestie a hug or does the bestie have to steal one?" He asks making me chuckle. 

"The cousin has a name and it's Charlie or Char for short and no I'm not going to give you a hug."

"I'll steal one soon but I made you laugh and that's an accomplishment for me." He smirks.

"Such a big word don't you think?" I ask a smiling Aster. He chuckles.

"Okay, okay will you love birds stop blabbering so we can start the movie." Cleo smiles slyly. 

"Love birds? No way Cleo." I shake my head. 

"What? Then give him the hug he wants." She smiles widely. "Oh, I see what you're doing." I narrow my eyes at her.

"I've watched the movie so I can leave anyways." I say.

"Nooo don't leave. It's just a hug Char." Aster says smiling evilly.

"Okay. It's just a hug." I say, giving up.

I quickly hug Aster and try to pull away only to be held tightly.

"Don't try that again." He whispers sending shivers down my spin. Argh! Why did I give in?

"Cleo save me." I wear I puppy-dog face.

"No way! I've got to take a picture of you guys." She pulls out her phone. 

"Argh!" I exclaim burying my face in Aster neck. I inhale his scent. He smells so good, just like a pastry shop. 

"I think someone is enjoying the hug." Aster says and Cleo snickers.

"I've had enough!" I stomp my foot and pull away from him with much force this time.

The two friends just sit and laugh at me like I'm a clown.

"I'll be back." I narrow my eyes at them before leaving for the room.

"I see that Cleo has already taken out her outfit for tonight." I say to myself as I enter the room. Her outfit consists of a see-through yellow top which I think is thigh-length and some black knee-length boots. Not bad.

Since I don't know anyone, I decide to dress as Harley Quinn. I take a white top an write 'do you wanna play?' on it with a pencil. Then start to make an embroidery with blue and red threads on my top through the writings. I match it with blue and red shorts with a black belt, black lace fishnet stockings and some black heels. I put my outfit away and paint my nails with red, blue and black nail polish that I found in one of Cleo's drawers.

I head downstairs only to find the besties asleep next to each other. The movie was about to end. I grin evilly and move to the kitchen. I fill a jug with water and put in some ice cubes to make the water extra cold than it already was. I try not to make noise as I move closer to Aster and Cleo. I can't wait to see the look on their faces when they wake up.

I pour the extra cold water on them slowly. Cleo stirs a little bit. I empty the jug and they both scream and jump hitting each other back to the floor. I tried to hold in my laughter but failed. I laugh and do a victory dance as Original by Sia played at the end of the movie. The look on their faces alone has me clutching my tummy as I laugh harder.

"Oh you did not." Aster says through gritted teeth.

I put on an innocent face and try to act dumb, "What happened here?" That was way too dumb. Cleo points at the jug I'm holding.

"Oh no." I gulp.

"Oh yes." They say in unison.

I try to run away but I slip in my own mess.

"Ouch!" I cry. "That hurts, at least we're all wet?" I say to the two who are standing in front of me.

"Are you asking?" They say together again.

"Quit it you guys, you're scaring me. What's with the talking at the same time." I say as I get up and dust myself.

Aster looks at Cleo and she whispers something like 'get her'.

Before I can even move, I'm being carried by Aster bridal style with Cleo following.

"Put me down." I shout hitting his rock solid chest. He doesn't budge or speak. He and Cleo are wearing identical smiles.

"Aster! I said put me down."

"Your wish is my command." Aster smirks and drops me in a bathtub. Ouch! Cleo opens the tap and the water gushes out onto me. Luckily my hair is covered. There's no escape. Aster is holding me down and Cleo is blocking the way.

"Okay, please I'm sorry I won't try that again." I cough.

"Has she had enough?" Aster asks.

"No." Cleo says.

"No?!" I exclaim.

"You said you won't try that again. Try?" She crosses her arms over her chest. 

"Okay, okay, I won't do that again." I say with all that's left in me.

Cleo turns off the tap as Aster offers his hand for me to take. I glare at him swatting his hand away and try to get up myself. 

"Suit yourself dear." He smiles.

"Okay please help me." I say after I failed on numerous attempts. 

"No." He huffs.

"No?!"

"Yes, no you'll get me wet". He looks at me with amusement. 

"You're confusing me. You're already wet." I say getting annoyed.

"Okay, I'm wet but I'll help you only if you kiss me." Aster smirks.

"What! No way am I doing that." I say stubbornly. "Cleo?" I call.

"Just kiss him." Cleo shouts.

"You're a very bad sister." I say as I try again to get out of the tub only to slip and fall into Aster arms.

He has hazel eyes, slender nose, rosy lips, pearly teeth, dark hair, a little bit tall, nice smile, handsome and in all annoying. Shut up Char!

"Char? We've got to get ready." Cleo screams bringing me back to my senses.

"Thanks for catching me before I fell." I adjust my top before grabbing a towel and leaving the frozen boy behind.

"How crazy are you dressing up?" Cleo asks.

"Not too much." I shut the bathroom door.

"Mmm.. you look good Cleo." I admire her as I wipe my wet face.

"Thanks but you need to get dressed or are you going with the towel wrapped around yourself?" She chuckles. "I'm sure you'd win award for craziest dressing."

"Very funny Cleo." I scoff and she leaves the room.

I put on my clothes and do my make-up Harley Quinn style. Looking at myself, I smile and skip down the stairs.

"What took you so long?" Cleo asks without taking her eyes of her phone.

"Woah! I wanna play." Aster who's wearing nothing but ripped black jeans says, pointing to my top.

"YOU LOOK AMAZING." Cleo screeches.

"You should get a bat to sum it all up." Aster says.

"That'll be too much." I laugh lightly.

"Have you been to a party before?" Cleo asks.

"Yes but not an all-teens party." I respond.

"Well you'll be surprised by what people will wear." Aster says.

"Okay, are you trying to draw someone's attention?" I ask poking his bare chest. I'm not a fan of abs but I like his, though I'd never admit it.

"Did it work?" He smirks.

"No!"

"You're now feeling cold?" I ask Aster as he puts on a black leather jacket he took from the back seat of his car.

He just smirks.

"Where's this America girl's house?" I ask. Still getting no answer.

"Why do I have to sit at the back?" I ask again getting between them.

"Shut up Char!" They both say in unison. "Just answer my questions."

"I don't want to die dear." Cleo says.

"How will me sitting in the front cause your death?"

"You'll be a distraction." She responds pointing to Aster. I was about to answer when Aster put his hand on my mouth. I smiled and I licked his palm. That's all I could think of at the moment.

"Eew Charrr!" Aster wipes his hand on his jeans.

"Both hands on the steering wheel, eyes on the  road." I command.

"When are we going to get there?" I ask.

"Soon. Will you please keep quiet?" Cleo asks with a frown.

"Sis, are you angry with me?" I ask sounding like a child. I learnt this from Avery. It helps a lot.

"Maybe." She responds. 

"You know you can't be angry with me. Okay, come closer." I tell her.

She comes closer and I give her a soft kiss on the cheek.

"No more questions for tonight." I say smiling at her. She smiles back which I'm grateful for. I don't like getting angry and I don't like people being angry with me.

"Heyyy, what about me?" Aster asks.

"Sister moment don't ruin it." Cleo says making me stick my tongue out at Aster.

"What's with the childish behaviour Harley?" Aster asks.

I don't answer but continue to make funny faces. Seriously, I have no idea why I'm behaving like a child.

"Okay, we're here." Cleo announces.

"Finally, but I can't see anyone." I say confused.

"The party is in her basement." Aster says.

"Oh that's a relieve. I thought you were going to kill me." I say putting my hand on my chest heaving a sigh of relief. 

"Drama queen." Aster says teasingly.

Cleo enters the house like it's hers, followed by Aster with me trailing behind. The place is kept very clean. I like it. We enter a room with stairs and we are welcomed with teenagers sweating, drinking, dancing, grinding, making out and some with outfits I never thought existed.

"Hey guys, so glad you could make it. I suppose this is Charlie. I love your outfit. I'm America." She extends her hand for me to shake which I happily accept and later on give her a hug and wish her a happy birthday. She is wearing ripped jeans, a top that says 'DOOM!', red and green lipstick. Crazy. 

"You're so lucky. It took sometime before she hugged me." Aster says.

"Jealous, I was practically forced into the hug." I say.

"I took my chances." He says with a smile.

I give him a fake smile.

"Okayy, love birds enjoy the party." America smiles leaving with Cleo. Argh! Again with the love birds.

"What do you want to drink?" Aster asks.

"I don't know. What do they have?" I ask.

"Okay, I'll be back soon." He says and leaves. 

He said he will be back soon, soon turns to days and days to weeks and weeks to months and months to years and years to decades.....

Okay I'm exaggerating.

He's surely taken so long. I decide to go and dance, have some fun and probably talk to people.

The dancing gets intense with people surrounding me and this guy who I learnt is called Carmen. He's really got the moves. I like challenges so I'm not bothered.

Carmen and I spoke for a while. I'm just standing around with a cup of water when this guy dressed like a biker approaches me and slurs, "I would like to play babe."

Eew! He smells like all kinds of alcohol mixed with vomit and sweat. I try to move away but he grips my hand tightly. He's definitely gonna leave a bruise. 

"Don't you walk away from me darling. You're not going to like what I'll do next."

"I would like to stay and play but I suppose it's past my bedtime so I'll be leaving but you can keep this." I say as I pour the contents of my cup on him. Uh-oh! That was so wrong. I went too far.Uh-oh! I've done this twice in one day. I went too far.

"Oh you're gonna get it Harley." He says through gritted teeth. Before he can do or say anything someone speaks from behind him.

"Oh, thanks man. You found my lil sis." The guy says fist bumping him.

"Mom is going to give you a good scolding." The new guy says and winks at me. I decide to play along.

"Mom? Oh no!" I exclaim like it's actually true. I've been acting since I was a kid so I'm good at it.

"Let's go before she has the whole police department search for you." My knight in shining amour says.

"I hope your mom scolds you well." The drunk guy slurs.

"Thanks again man." My acting brother says.

"Anytime bro." The drunk guy slurs.

"Thank you soo much umm..."

"Maleek, I'm Maleek." He says.

"Nice to meet you Maleek. I'm Charlie but you can call me Char." I say.

"Nice to meet you too Char but one thing you should know is to never throw water on anyone." He advises.

"I'll keep that in mind. My knight in shining amour." I say making him laugh.

"Is your hand alright?" He asks in concern but I smell something fishy. Yeah he helped me and all but I don't seem to trust him. Well it takes time to know someone so I'll let it rest.

"Yes, it's fine. Don't worry." I say.

"You're new here aren't you?" Maleek asks.

"Yes I am and I assume you're in the same school as the b-day girl." I say.

"Yes, you'll be schooling there right?"

"Yup. It was nice meeting you and thanks again. Byee." I say.

"It's a pleasure dear."  He says and I walk away to where I was left alone by Aster.

I speak to random people and look for Aster. I finally find him kissing some girls neck. I just walk over and pull him away.

"Heyyy?" The girl screeches.

"Find your own." She says like she's about to cry.

"Oh is the baby gonna cry. Well Aunt Harley doesn't give a damn!" I screech back.

"W-well you don't have to be so mean about it." She stomps off on the verge of crying.

Satisfied I turn to look at Aster who's already looking at me with amusement.

"What?" I ask.

"Aunt Harley? Really?" He asks trying to control himself from laughing.

"Whatever." 

"You're so funny and you looked cute when you shooed her away." He says still laughing.

"Maybe you'd want your own share too. Remember ditching me? You better back-off before you get punched."

"Wooah! relax tigeress. I'm sorry for leaving you there alone but I suppose you had fun, there's a video of you dancing with Carmen; the best dancer at school." He says.

"Yeah, I did have fun but some guy squeezed my hand."

"Oh I hope you're okay. I'm sorry I wasn't there for you. He says holding my hand in concern. Now this is the type of concern I'm talking about not the kind Maleek showed. 

"Yes, I'm okay. Some guy called Maleek helped." I felt him stiffen at the mention of Maleek. What's wrong with him? I don't get to ask anything as I see Cleo in tears.

"Oh my God, Cleo are you okay?" I ask as I pull her into a hug.

"Let's just leave. Okay?" She forces out.

We get into the car and all she says is, "Ian."

Oh no. What happened? I ask myself as Aster drives away silently.

"Why is he ignoring me?" Cleo asks no one in particular when we get home.

"He snapped at me at the party when I asked him why he was ignoring me, and said he doesn't like me. I don't even remember confessing the way I felt about him." Cleo says again. I have to tell her.

"Maybe he was drunk?" Aster suggested sounding more like a question.

"No he wasn't, he was even with someone else." Cleo snaps.

"You confessed your feelings for him." I say suddenly.

"No I did not!" Cleo snaps.

"Will you just sit and let me explain, you're acting like a child!" I exclaim. She's starting to get on my nerves.

"At Heathrow's Airport, the day you came for me. Do you remember this picture?" I ask as I show her the picture and she nods.

"When you took the picture you said, 'sister and crush selfie!'. Now do remember confessing in your own silly way.” I mimic her as realisation dawns on her.

"Yes, but why didn't you tell me earlier?" She asks.

"I'm sorry. I didn't know how to but we can fix this. Right?" I ask with hope.

"Yes, we can fix this." Aster says. I release a breath I didn't know I was holding.

"How? It's not like we can wipe his memory." Cleo states.

"We're not going to wipe his memory. You didn't actually tell him how you feel. You just said crush." Aster says trying to make sense. 

"A crush is a temporary feeling of love. He has no right to be angry." I added.

"Exactly." Aster says looking at me. I feel my cheeks heat up. I look away quickly. I haven't blushed in years. Aster! What have you done?

"So what do we do then?” Cleo asks.

"You'll talk to him. I can go with you." I shrug.

“Me too.” Aster says.

"Okay, thanks guys." Cleo smiles. "I'm gonna bath and get to bed. Goodnight."

"Okay, goodnight." Cleo leaves Aster and I alone.

"Why are you looking at me like that?" I ask Aster who has been staring for a while now.

"You looked good tonight." He says and scratches the back of his neck nervously.

"Thanks." I say while cleaning up tonight's make-up.

"Sooo who are you?" He asks. I cock a brow at him. “What?”

"Like an introduction of yourself." He says.

"Oh right, let's do it this way. I ask you something about yourself, you answer then I answer the same question."

"That will do." He shrugs.

"Full name?" I ask.

"Aster William Stone."

"Charlie Louise Kent."

"Age?" Aster asks.

"Seventeen." I say.

"Same." He says.

"Birthday?" I ask.

"2nd March." He says.

"No way. That's Wina's birthday, my elder sister. Mine is 9th April." I say. 

"Favourite colour?" He asks.

"I don't really have one but I love blue."

"Same here." He says.

"Cool.”

"What's your favourite food?" I ask.

"Roast dinner."

"What's that?" I ask.

He cocks his brow like he wants to say 'How come you don't know what it is' until realisation dawns on him.

"Oh sorry, it consists of roast beef, Yorkshire pudding, gravy, roast potatoes, veg and more gravy." He says.

"Okay? I have no idea what some of the things you mentioned are but I'll let it pass." I chuckle.

"Don't worry, one day I'll take you out to have some." He says.

"Like a date?" I ask regretting it immediately.

"Yes, like a date." He smiles. I blush.

"What's yours?" He asks.

"I can eat almost anything but I like anything chocolatey." I smile goofily.

"Okay. What about your parents?" He asks. I don't like talking about my parents at all. Sometimes, I feel like they separated because of me.

"All I can say is, I have three parents. Hope you understand." I say.

"I'm sorry about that." He says.

"No it's okay." I say nervously.

"My parents are mostly busy. Dad is a governor and mom is a designer." He says.

"Good to know. Do you have any siblings?" I ask.

"Yes, one sis, in the university." He says in a bored tone.

"Are you okay?" I ask.

"Yeah I'm just tired." He says getting up.

"It was nice getting to know you." He says fidgeting with his jacket.

"Yeah, you too." I say also getting up. “Are you going to drive home or?”

"I have some clothes here so I'll sleep in the guest room." He answers and gives me a quick kiss on the cheek and heads for the stairs. 

I stand stiffly watching his retreating figure. I'm blushing. Aster! Oh man! Focus Char!

 I have that test on Monday and I haven't started studying. Argh! Well I'll study tomorrow, Sunday, after talking to Ian. Back at home, I'd have gone to church on Sunday. I'll ask Cleo about church later.

……..

"Mmmm, aunt Good morning." I greet entering the kitchen.

"Good morning dear. How are you doing this morning?" She asks placing a plate of pancake and oats with berries infront of me.

"I'm fine by God's grace." I say and start eating.

"That's good to hear honey." She says and looks behind me.

"How are you two?" Aunt asks Aster and Cleo who have taken seats next to me.

Good and okay are their responses.

"Okay kids I'm very tired so I'm going to rest. Have a nice day." Aunt says planting kisses on our foreheads and leaving the kitchen. I don't often get kisses so I'm grateful for any little one I get.

"Are you guys ready to go?" I ask Aster and Cleo. They nod and get off their stools.

"Where are we going to meet him?" I ask.

"The mall." Cleo answers and we leave the house.

I relax in the backseat of the car and wipe the nail polish off my nails and read some notes I got from Cleo.

"We're here, wake up sleepyhead." Aster taps me.

"I wasn't sleeping. Just relaxing." I roll my eyes.

"Sure you were." He says sarcastically.

"Whatever." I say getting out of the car.

We walk around until we spot Ian.

"Cleo, no matter what he says, relax. You're a very beautiful girl and you deserve the best. He's not the only guy in the world and I know you'll find the right person who will accept you for who you are. So be the lady you are and do what's right." She just stares at me and hugs me, whispering “thanks”.

"That was quite a speech you made there." Aster says when Cleo leaves.

"Yeah, I guess." I reply shrugging.

"Let's go get some ice cream." He says.

"It's too early for ice cream." I say.

"We'll find something else if you want and I'll be paying." He says before I can protest.

"Okay just for today." I say and he takes my hand and leads me to the closest ice cream shop.

"What do you want to order?" Aster asks as I look through the menu.

"Everything is to die for." I say happily.

"I usually order the kitkat ice cream sundae." He says and I gasp.

"That's probably filled with so much sugar." I say surprised. He just laughs.

"I think I'll go with the no churn chocolate chocolate chip coconut vegan ice cream." I announce proudly. 

"Nice choice." He says smiling.

"Are you going for your usual or what?" I ask him.

"No, I'll go for the donut ice cream sundae." He says smiling.

"Hey, Aster." Maleek says standing infront of us.

"Maleek?" I ask surprised.

"Hi Charlie." He says smiling while Aster is shooting glares at him like he wants to kill him.

"Umm.. excuse me guys, I'm going to the bathroom?" I say getting up.

"I'll go with you." Aster says surprisingly.

"I'm sure you can't go to the girls bathroom bro." Maleek chuckles and takes a seat.

"Thanks but I can go alone Aster." I chuckle and leave.

At the bathroom, I see some girls from the party but it seems they don't recognize me. They're talking about a bet some guys made. One of them notices me and draws the others attention. I give them a small smile and they force one back. Who is this bet on? I don't want to be ever betted on, I don't know how it feels like but I know it sucks. I think you'll feel disrespected.

I leave the bathroom and get back to the booth Aster and Maleek are in. They're talking about something but all I hear is 'have her'. I get in the booth and sit by Maleek who puts his arm on my shoulder and whispers in my ear, "how is your hand?"

"It's okay. Can I have my ice cream now?" I ask moving his arm from my shoulder.

"Sure." Aster says as Cleo enters the shop with Ian and another girl.

"Hey guys, this is Tasha, she's Ian's girlfriend." Cleo introduces us. I guess things didn't go as she wanted but I'm proud she's still friends with him and is even introducing his gf to us. 

"Charlie." I say extending my hand.

"Aster." He says and extends his hand too.

"Maleek." He says winking. Like seriously who does that, the girl has a bf and he's standing right infront of us.

"Nice meeting you all." Tasha smiles.

"Nice meeting you too." We all say in unison.

I smile at my cousin, feeling happy about what she did.

 Letting something go doesn't mean you're weak. It shows how strong you are to deal with situations. She's definitely going to find someone. Definitely.

Our ice cream has been served, we're getting to know ourselves more, Aster and I are fighting with our feet under the table. 

An idea just popped in my mind. Hahaa!

"Heyyy!" Aster exclaims as I scoop some of his ice cream.

"What?" I ask innocently.

"Don't you act like you don't know what's going on here. You just ate some of mine." He says pointing to his ice cream. I fake gasp.

"I did not."

"Yes you did." He argues. I roll my eyes. I'm not ready for arguments.

"So?" I ask with a smirk plastered on my face.

"So this." Aster says and scoops my ice cream directly hitting me in the face.

"You did not just do that?" I gasp.

"What?" He asks innocently just like I did earlier.

"Hey? You guys should quit fighting or you'll get us kicked out." Cleo says in fake concern a hint of amusement clear in her voice.

"Like you care?" I say sticking my tongue out at Cleo.

Maleek takes a tissue and wipes the ice cream off my face.

"Thanks." I say.

"It's a pleasure beautiful." He says and I blush.

Aster kicks my feet. I cock my brow at him. He takes out his phone and later I receive a message from an unknown number saying, "stay away from him≫” I look up at Aster and smirk.

Me: why??

Liam( that's how I saved his number, his middle name ): he's bad and you shouldn't be blushing at the things he says.

Me: are you jealous or something?

I look up at him and he gives me a puke face which I chuckle at.

L: never

M: yeah right😏

L: I'm being serious 

M: okay okay but you know there's nothing going on btn us

L: yeah but just stay away

M: how did you get my number

L: I have my ways 😏

M: 😑

L: pay attention everyone's looking at you😂

I look up and see Maleek snapping his fingers at me.

"Yeess." I say moving his fingers from my face. Everyone has their attention on me.

"What are you doing on your phone? I called you five times." Cleo says with narrowed eyes. Aster is stiffling a laugh. I kick him and I put my phone away.

"Sorry. I'm all ears now. Why were you calling me?" I ask.

"You were in boarding school, right?" Tasha asks. I nod.

"Enlighten us on your life in boarding school." Ian says.

"Why?" I ask.

"Why?! Really Charlie? We just want to know about your life before coming to London." Cleo says.

"Okay, like I have a choice." I say rolling my eyes.

"In Ghana, we take three years of Senior High School. It's not really three but you start from year one, two and three then graduate to the university. I was in my third year. Any questions?" I ask.

"How was first year like, which I assume is when you're a junior?" Tasha asks.

"First year is pain. You're bullied by the third years mostly and the second years try to do same. In the first year, you have a school mother, that's a person in the third year who helps you with school related activities and other school stuff." I say.

"Wait, I'm getting bored." Aster says.

"So?" I glare at him.

"So, tell us something spicy." Maleek says.

"There's nothing spicy in my life." I chuckle.

"Are you sure?" Cleo asks. I nod.

"Not even a bf?" Tasha asks and I shake my head ‘no’ in response.

"That's not possible. You’re damn beautiful. I think you're lying." Tasha says.

"No I'm not. Do you classify being told you're beautiful and that I'd like us to date and the person treating you like like you're shit as having a bf? Well I don't." I snap all of a sudden. Receiving glares from people in the shop.

"Sorry." Tasha says.

"Non, Je suis très désolée." I say in French and they all look at me with wide eyes.

"What? I'm a freaking nerd. I speak English, French, Ghanaian Language and Spanish. I like to talk a lot so that's why." I say.

"What were you saying?" Ian asks.

"I said, no, I am sorry." I answer.

"You're so full of surprises." Maleek chuckles.

"Hmm. My school was an all girls boarding school. One of the best. I had a good school mother in first year, I guess. First year, I was seen as good, smart and strong. I didn't allow people to push me around just because I was a junior. I was mostly with my books or my bestie Tee Jay, here's a picture of her. She's soo amazing and I miss her so much. We used to argue a lot and she always defended me whenever I got into a small fights nothing big cause I like to keep a good reputation. We were separated when my class was changed and it hurt me so much. Year two was okay, nothing much since you're in the middle and all that but I still missed my friends but that didn't get the best of me I still stuck with my books and made new friends. Later I was chosen with some other girls to represent the school for quizes, I was soo happy cause it was a dream come true. My parents and teachers were happy too. In school, we used to meet up with other schools. Some guys told me they wanted to date but I rejected all of them because they all show fake love. I was a member of the Students Representative Council (SRC) and I was studying for my final year exam, which the other final year students will be writing soon for the opportunity to go to the university. I became a mother; school-mother, to a nice girl, Sally, that's her name. I didn't even say goodbye to her." I end my story by showing them pictures of my friends and family.

"Wow! That was amazing." Cleo exclaims.

"Yeah, I just liked you more.” Maleek says.

"Can I ask a question?" Tasha asks.

"You already did." I respond getting chuckles.

"Yeah yeah whatever guys. Okay, so are you gay? You know, you've been surrounded by girls for almost three years didn't you get feelings or attached to anyone?" She asks.

"No! My parents would have my head." I answer and they nod.

"Okay, let's play truth or dare." Maleek announces and they agree. I look at Aster who hasn't spoken much after my story and he sends me a warm smile which I return.

"Okay, truth or dare Charlie?" Maleek asks.

"Truth." I say.

"How was your first kiss?"

The truth is always better than lying.

"Do you classify giving my siblings goodnight kisses as being kissed?" They chuckle.

"No. Have you never..." Maleek trails off.

"I've never been." I say faintly.

"Why?" Tasha asks.

"Can we just stop talking about this!" Aster exclaims glaring at Maleek.

"No, it's fine. I want my first kiss to be special, with someone who cares but I know it's not going to happen...yet.” I add. “I believe anything can happen to the most unexpected people and at and unexpected time." I say smiling.

"I love you soo much sis. I love everything about you. Though I don't know a lot about you, the little I've seen tells me enough. Your personality is amazing, you don't give up easily, you don't run away from difficulties, you tell the truth no matter how sad it is and a whole lot. I hope the rest of us and others will grow to see. God! Come give me a hug." Cleo says happily.

"Now let's just go home. We have school tomorrow and Char has a test to write which she has to study for." Aster says thoughtfully.

We say our goodbyes and Aster drives Cleo and I home.

"Thanks for the ride." I tell Aster.

"Don't worry about it. Besides, my sis just texted me saying she's home so I gotta get going." He kisses our foreheads and gets ready to leave.

"Okay, thanks again. I would really love to meet your sister someday." I tell him.

"Sure. She'd love to meet you too. Byee." Aster waves.

Cleo and I enter the house and see aunt putting on her shoes.

"Oh kids, I'm leaving for work. I left some food in the fridge. If you need anything don't hesitate to call. I'll be here in the morning to drop you off at school. Love you, byee." Aunt says giving us hugs and leaves.

"What do you want to do?" Cleo asks from the kitchen.

"It's been long since I ate pizza, can we order some and eat the food in the fridge later?" I ask her.

"Well, there's no need to order some cause we're in luck. Mom left pizza and juice for us. We can eat something else when we're hungry later." Cleo says and brings out the pizza.

We eat and talk for a while.

"I'm going to read some of the books you lent me." I tell Cleo while I head for the stairs.

"Okay, I'll be up later." She tells me.

"Okay."

I'm reading random topics and solving some calculus when Rescue by Lauren Daigle blares through my phone. That's my ringtone. I check the caller ID and I'm utterly excited cause that's my elder sister calling.

"Winnaaaa!" I exclaim.

"Heyyy shy girl." She really thinks I'm shy. Ha!

"How are you doing?" I ask her.

"I'm great. You?"

"I'm okay. I'm just studying for a test I'll be taking at school." I answer.

I tell her about all the people I've met so far and the events and all the random things like she and Aster being birthday twinnies. We hang up and just when I put my phone down I get a text from an unknown number. Arrghh! Distractions!

"Who is it this time?" I mumble.

Unknown: Would you like to join the dance club? If you need time to think about it, we meet on Saturdays at noon, school premises, so you can pass by. Carmen.

Me: I don't really need time to think about it. I love dancing but it depends on my schedule. I'll try and pass by. Thanks for the invite.

Carmen: You're welcome. See you at school tomorrow new girl ;)

Me: Yeah, yeah don't remind me. I'm the new girl.

"Who are you texting?" Cleo asks.

"Oh it's just Carmen." I answer her.

"Oh yeah, I even forgot you danced with him probably infront of all our mates and you're only starting school tomorrow." Cleo says with her arms crossed over her chest.

"Is that bad?" I ask.

"Not really but you've got to be careful." She responds.

"Okay I'll be careful but why are you telling me this? At first Liam said to stay away from Maleek and now you are telling me to be careful." I state.

"Liam? Ohh Aster told you his middle name." Cleo says thoughtfully.

"We got to know each other after the party when we came home." I say.

"Okay. Now to answer your question, you're the new girl and people expect newbies to be umm...loners at the start but here is this new girl which is you, who starts going to parties and dancing with the school's best dancer and hasn't even started school and also started texting him." 

"Listen Cleo, I never said I wanted to go to the party, you said it was going to make my first day at school less awkward and an opportunity to get to know some people from school and also I'm not like all newbies. I don't want to be a loner while there's a big world I have to explore." I say almost annoyed. I hate this. I lie on my bed to relax my nerves.

"Okay! Fine! Suit yourself but don't come to me when these guys hurt you!" Cleo screams and gets out of the room slamming the door behind her.

"Aarrrgghh!" I scream. I hear the front door close and the engine of a car start. I look out the window to see it's Cleo who sped off in her car. I just pray she won't do anything stupid. I need to wash today and all it's events off my body and have some chocolate, listen to music and fall asleep.

I'm in my short pyjamas with let me sleep written on the top, listening to Intensions by Justin Bieber while I make toast with nutella for myself. I'm still worried about Cleo. Where could she be going in the middle of the night? Her phone is switched off. I decide to call Aster to find out if Cleo is at his house.

"Hello?" I hear a lady's voice through my phone. I check to see if it's Aster's number I called. Yup, it's his number.

"Helllooo?" She says again.

"Hi. Please I want to speak with Aster.”

“May I know who this is?” She asks.

"I'm Charlie." I say.

"Ohhh, so you're the Charlie my brother can't stop talking about." She giggles. Aster has been talking about me? This makes my stomach do a certain flip I've never experienced before.

I hear a voice in the background that I recognise as Aster's.

"Who are you talking to?" He asks.

"Ohh, just your girlfriend." She says.

"Girlfriend?" He asks and I assume he's taking his phone back.

"Yeah, Charlie." She says.

"I've told you before and I'll say it again she's not my girlfriend." Aster says. I chuckle. Typical siblings.

"You know she's still on the phone, right?" His sis laughs.

"Sorry you had to hear all that Char." He apologises.

"No, no there's no need to apologise." I say.

"Okay, so did hottie miss me." He says and I can feel his famous smirk.

"In your dreams Liam." I say.

"At least you'll be in it. Did you just call me Liam?" He asks.

"Just stop talking so I can tell you why I called." I say.

"Okay. Why did you call?" He asks.

"Umm..Cleo and I had a little argument and she sped off. I called to find out if she was with you because her phone is switched off." I tell him.

"There's no need to worry. She's not here but she'll come back and if she calls or stops by I'll let you know." He says.

"Okay, thanks." I say.

"It's a pleasure dear. What exactly did you two argue about?" He asks. I sigh and spend about five minutes explaining what happened between Cleo and I.

"You know she's telling the truth, right?" Aster asks after my little rant.

"I don't know." Is all I can say.

"Well, all I can say is that, Maleek is Mr. Popular and will do anything to keep his rep so be careful." He warns.

"Okay." I say and get up from the kitchen counter and check if the doors are locked and move upstairs to the room.

I hear his sister's voice again.

"Umm...Char, my sister says she wants to see you, so can we make this a video call?" He asks unsure. I chuckle. “Sure.”

Soon I'm staring at an older female version of Aster.

"Hiii. I'm Sydney. Aster's sis."

"Hiii. I'm Charlie. Cleo's cousin slash sister." I wave and she laughs waving back.

"Nice seeing you. By the way I love your pjs." Sydney says happily.

"Thank you and it's nice seeing you too." I smile.

"You're so pretty.” I say.

"Oh thank you, but not as pretty as you and looking at him." She points to Aster. "He's enjoying the view so I'll leave you two 'love birds', she air quotes, "alone. Don't do anything I wouldn't do." Sydney wiggles her brows.

"Syd, we're on the phone. We can't do anything other than talking." Aster says.

"Are you sure?" I cut in. Making his eyes widen while I smirk.

"You see, she just admitted it. Ha!" Syd laughs.

"Byee Char." She says and gets up to leave.

"Byee. I hope to meet you in person." I say.

"Same here darling." She says and leaves the room. I'm guessing it's Aster's room.

"What?" I ask a staring Aster.

"Can we really do something?" He asks mischievously.

"I was just joking." I shrug it off.

"Really?" He asks.

I  cock a brow at him.

"Really?" He asks again.

"Okay I've had enough of you for one night. If you repeat 'really' again. I'm going to bed." I tell him.

"Awww, you know you can't have enough of this. You're going to miss me." He says pointing to himself. I laugh.

"Whatever." I say.

"It's the truth." He says.

"Can I go to bed now? It's getting late." I say.

"I'm not done." He says.

"With what?" I ask.

"Umm...nothing." That's all he says and looks away.

"Wait. Were you checking me out?" I ask.

"No." He says a little too fast but the slight shade of red on his cheeks gives him away.

"Ha! You're blushing." I chuckle.

"Shut up." He says playfully.

"Just admit it." I say smiling widely.

"There's nothing to admit." His blush fades and he looks at me straight in the eyes.

We just sat there staring at each other. No one making an effort to break eye contact. Charlie! School! Test! Focus!

I break our staring competition or whatever we just did with our eyes. "Well, tomorrow is a big day, so we better get some sleep. Goodnight Liam.”

"Yeah. Goodnight Louise." He smiles.

We end the call and I can't stop this feeling inside of me. It feels like over thousands of butterflies are in my tummy. When Aster and I were just sitting there staring, it felt like our eyes were having a communication of their own. The only thing that separated as was our phone screens. None of us wanted to move. Well not until I did. He was definitely checking me out. The thought alone made the butterflies who have found their way in my tummy do an ultimate flip. This is soo weird. I only get these tingling sensations when I watch or read anything romantic. Maybe I'm living my own romance life. That's actually not true. I mean we met like two days ago. How possible? Aster and I. Yeah, right. Never in a billion million never to come years.

With these thoughts and more in my head, sleep takes over.

Cleo's View

I sped off not knowing where I'm going to. I'm so pissed, like how can she be so stubborn?

"Where to go, where to go." I keep saying. There's no way I'm going to Aster's. That's the first place she'll call since my phone is off.

I see this café which I've passed by a couple of times but I've never entered. I choose to go there since I don't want to go far from home.

"Hi." A male voice says the moment I take a seat in one of the booths.

"Hi." I say and look up to see a guy I've seen from school before but I don't remember his name. He's about my height, dark brown hair, piercing blue eyes with shades of grey, cute and masculine.

"Do you mind if I sit with you?" He asks.

"No, I don't mind at all." I say.

"Thanks. I'm Alf Brunson. I'm in the same school as you. I have Chemistry with you. My twin is Alfie Brunson?" He states more like a question.

"Yes I remember you." I say chuckling.

"I guess I don't need to introduce myself." I say.

"Yeahh, you don't need to." He says.

"So what are you doing here at this time of the night?" I ask.

"I could ask you the same thing but I'm waiting for my sister, Alfie, to finish with her shift." He replies.

I nod.

"What about you?" He asks.

“Umm.. I just need to breathe.”

“There are a lot of places to breathe. Why here?” He asks. I sigh and tell Alf, whom I find affable, everything that happened this evening. 

"Oh, I'm sorry about that." He says after my little rant.

"No it's okay. I don't know but I feel like I should apologise to her. I was acting like I'm a mother." I say scrunching my nose.

"That's the right thing to do." He says with a warm smile.

"Thanks for listening to me." I say smiling.

"Oh no problem dear." He says.

"I didn't even order anything for you. I'm so sorry what do you want to eat." He says nervously.

"Oh don't worry about it. I'm about to leave." I tell him.

"Heyyy bro." The female version of Alf says, hugging him from behind.

"Hi sis. This is Cleo." He introduces me to his twin. They look so much alike.

"Hi. I remember you from school." She smiles 

“Yeah, hi.” I smile back.

"I just finished with my shift." She tells her twin.

"Okay, I guess we can all leave together." He says looking back at me.

I just nod.

Once we get out, someone closes the café and I'm about to leave when Alf stops me.

"I really wish I could get you something to eat." He says.

"Alf, it's okay. It's late and we have school tomorrow." I smile.

"Good point." He says and I nod.

"Thank you." I say.

"Wait, what about I take you out this coming Friday night. You know just for fun and to make it up to you." He says.

"Finnee." I sigh giving up.

"Great. I'll give you more info in the course of the week. Goodnight Cleo and I hope everything works out between you and your cousin." He says and hugs me.

"Goodnight and thanks again. Tell your sis it was nice meeting her." I say hugging back.

"Okay bye. See you at school tomorrow." He says and we part ways.

It's good I took my keys because Charlie has already locked up and is sleeping. I want to apologise but I don't, since she's asleep and her pjs say 'let me sleep' so I let her be.

I go closer to her and whisper, "I'm sorry Char" and give her a kiss. As I'm  about to move her phone lights up. I pick it up and see it's a text from Aster which she saved as Liam with emojis. I smile at that but what the text says makes my eyes widen.

Liam: I was definitely checking you out.

I'm curious right now. What's going on between them? She got her like two days ago. My bestie and my cousin? They'll be cute together but what!

Should I check the other messages? No, that'll be invading her privacy, right? Well, curiosity got the best of me. I'm scrolling through her chats and I'm freaking out. I feel so bad but I'm still doing it. Wow! So Aster was the person she was texting at the ice cream shop. Does Aster like, like-like her or something? Like a crush?

"Well, I'll find out soon." I murmur and smile sheepishly. Charlie stirs making me drop her phone on the edge of her bed.

I fall on my bed and sleep carries me to dream land.

Charlie's View

I'm an early riser when it comes to school but where's my phone? Argh! Did it fall under the bed again? Nah! I didn't place it close to the bed last night.

"Thank You God." I say and getting out of bed to stretch. I step on something, that's my phone but how did it get there? "Good thing I didn't break my screen." I sigh. It's thirty minutes past six. I head to the en-suite, brush my teeth, bath and get back in the room.

"Hey, Cleo wake-up." I say tapping her.

"It's too early." She mumbles.

"Please, I want to tell you something." I say and she opens her eyes.

"Look, about yesterday, I'm so sorry. I didn't mean t-" She cuts me off.

"No, I'm the one who overreacted. I shouldn't have left. I should have stayed to talk things over. I'm sorry." She says.

"We cool?" I ask.

"Definitely." She says and stretches to hug me.

"I just finished bathing and you know, you stink. You need to shower." I say moving back.

"Did you just say I stink?" She asks getting out of bed.

"Did I?" I ask.

"Come let me give you a hug." She yawns.

"No, I'm good." I shake my head.

"You sure? ‘Cause you seem like you need one." She smiles.

"Yes I'm sure." I say.

"Nah, I'll still give you a hug." She says and engulfs me in a tight hug.

I manage to scream and the door opens revealing an already prepared Aster. He's wearing his school uniform with a loose necktie and disheveled hair and is staring at Cleo and I with wide eyes.

"Save me." I say to him. He doesn't move.

"What is wrong with you?" I ask when Cleo leaves me alone.

"He's in a trance. Look at the way he's drooling over you." Cleo winks walking to the bathroom.

I look down at myself to see I'm covered by just a large peach towel.

"Argh! Liam!" I shout clutching my towel tightly. 

"What?" He smirks licking his lips as he stares at me from my head to my toes. I walk towards him.

“One day.” He whistles. I blush and mentally slap myself for tolerating his stupid fantasies.

“Eyes up!" I command. He looks at me. “Now leave!” I try to push him out.

"Okay, okay. Can't I just stay for a sec." He says like a child.

I have this look on my face that says, "like seriously?"

"I'm leaving, I'm leaving." He chuckles and leaves the room. 

I quickly lock the door and get dressed in the white blouse and skirt, put on my socks, shoes and blazer and pull my braids in a ponytail. I don't put on make-up, mother says I'm too young. Though I do it for fun, like I did for the party and this is school we're talking about, not a fashion show. I just put on lip gloss. Cleo gets back from showering and starts dressing up. I pick up some books and shove them into my bag. I unplug my phone which I was charging.

“Are phones allowed?” I ask Cleo.

"Yes but you can't use them in class." She says and I sense panic in her voice.

"Is everything okay?" I ask. She just nods vigorously eyeing my phone.

"Alright, I can smell food so I'm gonna get some. Hurry up though, I think mom will be home soon." I tell her and leave the room.

"What are you cooking?" I ask Aster when I enter the kitchen, taking a seat.

"Scrambled eggs and toast. Hope you like it." He says and sets a plate in front of me.

"Thanks." I say and pour some watermelon juice for myself.

He prepares a plate for himself and Cleo, who just came down.

We sit in silence for a while until I see Aster staring like he's been doing for a while.

"Okay, what's up Aster?" I ask.

"I was just wondering why you haven't reacted to the text I sent you last night. I mean, you saw it right?" He says and I cock a brow at him.

"I'm sorry, what text?" I ask and just then Cleo coughs.

I take my phone out and I'm surprised to see my whatsapp opened. I always close my apps after using them.

"I don't remember opening my whatsapp last night after talking to you or this morning and I always close my apps after using them." I say.

"Are you sure?" Cleo asks.

"Yes, and it's strange because my phone was on the floor this morning and now someone invaded my privacy." I say and my eyes widen.

"Cleo? Did you by any chance read my messages?" I ask her.

"No, what!” She coughs.

"You know lying won't get you anywhere, right?" Aster asks. Which I'm grateful for.

"Okay, I did and I'm sorry for doing so." She says. I don't know what to say. Why would she do that?

"Okay, I've done that before to my sis, Wina, but it's a bad thing to do, so let's not do that again." I say.

"I’m sorry. I don't want you to be angry again." She says.

"I'm not angry and neither was I angry last night but please don't do that again." I say.

"I promise you and I'm sorry Liam." She says and I laugh. He just scoffs.

"What was the text about?" I ask no one in particular.

"Well first of all what's going on between you two?" Cleo asks raising her brows at Aster and I.

Cleo's phone rings.

"Just a minute.” She answers the call. “Hello mom.”

I whisper to Aster, "let's have some fun." He just smirks.

"Guys, mom said she's going to be late so I'm driving. Move it." Cleo says.

"Okay." Aster and I say in unison.

"Come sit with me Liam." I say flirtatiously.

"Right behind you baby boo." He says.

"Baby boo? Now I'm interested. Can you tell me what's going on with you two?" She says.

"Guess." I tell her.

"Eew! Stop touching my best friend like that." Cleo says.

"I really like it when she does that." Aster says.

"Friends with benefits?” Cleo asks faintly with wide eyes.

"Maybe." Aster and I shrug.

"My bestie and my cousin? How?" She asks no one in particular.

I can't hold in my laughter anymore. I burst out laughing followed by Aster. Cleo gives as a, what's so funny look.

"You fell for it. We met like threr days ago Cleo." I say in between laughs.

"What? You were joking." She says in disbelief shaking her head.

"The look on your face was unbelievable." Aster says trying to settle down from the laughter.

"Very funny you two." She says.

"Check the message." Cleo says. I reach to get my phone but Aster beats me at it.

"Give it back." I say.

"No!" He says.

"Cleo?" I call out.

"He was checking you out." She says.

I turn to face a blushing Aster.

"Awww, you look so cute when you blush. You finally admitted it." I pull his cheeks. He swats my hand away.

"Whatever." He scoffs.

"Liam admitted, Liam admitted." I chant whilst making faces at him.

"Why is Alf waving you?" Aster asks Cleo and I see we reached the school's premises. My heart is beating like crazy right now.

Cleo blushes. "We're going out Friday night."

"What? but we always spend Friday nights together and since when did you start talking to him?" Aster asks.

"Umm...last night. I'll tell you all about it later but you can still spend time with Char. Char, welcome to the school." She says and gets out of the car.

"Are you coming?" Aster asks me.

"Do I have a choice?" I get out of the car. 

"Cleo, you also have to tell us about you and Ian." I say.

"I'll tell you everything you want to know but we have to get you to the office for your schedule and other things." She says and leads the way.

"I'm getting a lot of stares." I whisper.

"Make way for the new girl." Aster says and bumps my side. "You'll be fine."

"Okay."

"Hello, what may I do for you?" A lady asks in her British accent.

"Hello Miss Shelley." Aster and Cleo greet.

"This is Charlie and she's new. I'm sure my parents already sent her details." Cleo says.

"Oh yes I was expecting you. This is your schedule, your locker number and some other things you need. You'll be writing a test, I hope you're aware?" She asks with a smile.

"Yes. I'm aware." I say returning the smile.

"Alright. I see you were a member of the Students Council back at your school?" She asks.

"Yes, I was." I nod.

"Okay. I guess you won't have any problem being a member here?" She asks just to be sure.

"I won't have any problem." I answer.

"That's great. Well, that's all. Have a wonderful stay and stay out of trouble." She says.

"Thank you."

"Okay, so our lockers are in the same hallway and you have Student Council first on your schedule, I have English with you and Cleo has Physical Education with you." Aster reads from my schedule.

"Okay, I'll leave you guys alone. I'm heading to my Chemistry class. See you at lunch." Cleo says and gives me a hug. Aster and I walk to the hallway where we have our lockers and shows me how to open it.

"If you were not here, I would have googled how to open a locker." I tell him. He chuckles and enters my combination.

"Let's get you to Student Council before we're both late for our classes." He says and grabs my hand.

"This is where the members meet." We come to a halt in front of a class.

"Okay thanks, I'll see you at English." I say about to open the door but he's still holding my hand.

"You can let go now." I smile.

"Oh yeah. Sorry." He says nervously.

"See you soon." I wave.

"See you soon." He waves back and leaves.

The moment I open the door, everyone's eyes are on me. Awkward!

"Are you lost or something?" A girl with heavy make-up asks. Eew! We're at school? Not a beauty pageant.

"No, I was told to come here for Student Council." I say mustering confidence.

"Charlie?"

"Hey, America." I say moving closer to her.

"America, you know this girl?" Make-up face asks.

"Yeah, I saw her at America's party". Another guy butts in.

"Guys! Let her speak." America shuts them up.

"Thank you." I say.

I spend some time telling them about how I got into Student Council.

"Okay, students. I hear we have a new person in our mist. New person, new person...oh new beautiful girl." The guy, I'm guessing is our teacher says making me giggle.

"Introductions everyone." Mr. Cyrus says. That's the name on the tag he's wearing.

"Hi, I'm Charlie Kent and I'm from West Africa." I introduce myself.

"America. You've already met me and I'm the head of the Council." She says.

"Paris. Vice-president of the Council." Make-up face says with a forced smile. I give her one too.

"Noon. Secretary." The guy who said he recognises me from the party says.

They have names like Sun, Mina, Christopher, Whitmore and a whole lot.

"Nice to meet you all." I say with a smile.

"Nice to meet you too." Mr. Cyrus says.

"Umm...what is my position in the Council?" I ask.

"You are an organiser, so now Spike has a partner." He says.

"May I know who Spike is?" I ask a bit scared cause Spike sounds like a biker's name.

A guy whom I haven't seen since I entered puts up his hand. My eyes widen in shock.

"Hi Harley. You seem a bit surprised to see me." I gulp. It's him, from the party. The guy I poured water on.

"Yes it's me and I'm not reading your mind...you're voicing out your thoughts." He says and the people around me start laughing.

"You poured water on him?" They ask in between laughs.

"I guess." I say a bit scared what might happen next.

"You guess? You're the girl he was talking about all weekend and you also danced with Carmen." Paris says fuming.

"Paris, you know I should be the one fuming. What was he doing with you all weekend?" America asks. Oh Spike and America are a thing.

"Paris! America!" Mr. Cyrus shouts. "Behave or leave." He states seriously.

"Sorry sir." America says whilst Paris bows her head in shame.

"Mr. Cyrus, is there any chance of you changing my position?" I ask.

"No. You have to deal with Spike." He says sternly. I choose not to argue.

We talk about a few things and I take notes on them. Guess what? Mr. Cyrus thought it wise that I sit by Spike during meetings so that he can teach me what to do as an organiser. He kept on saying he was my boss and kept pinching me and also said I was going to pay for what I did at the party.

"Stop it." I say when Spike pinches me again.

"No. I'm your boss so I can do whatever I want to you." He whispers in my ears. Eew! Eew! Eew! The worst part is Paris keeps glaring. What's wrong with her?

"No you can't." I say stepping on his foot.

"Oww. You arrghh!" He cries.

"What's going on?" Mr. Cyrus bellows.

"She stepped on my foot!" He shouts.

"I don't believe you. You're always causing trouble." Mr. Cyrus glares at Spike.

I smile sheepishly.

Spike glares at me. Great more problems to deal with.

Saved by the bell. Hahaa!

"Okay, I expect better from you guys next time. You may leave for your next class." Mr. Cyrus dismisses us.

"Hey, America?" I call out to her. She turns to me.

"Any problem?" She asks.

"I just want to say sorry. You know, for what happened back there and I didn't mean to pour water on your bf at your own party." I say with remorse.

"It wasn't your fault. Paris has always been jealous. If Spike worries you, just tell me and I'll deal with him. Now what class are you heading to?" She asks.

"English." I say but my attention is on someone else.

"Are you..." America says but sees what I'm seeing and keeps quiet.

"Charlie, I have the same class as you. Let's get go before we're late." America says in concern. I nod.

"Did you also see what I saw?" I ask her.

"Yes. I did. Look, Paris keeps throwing her self at these guys so don't be surprised" She says.

"So she's out to get me by kissing him in the hallway? Is that even allowed in school?" I ask as we take seats close to the window and next to each other in the class we entered.

"I'm not really sure if she's out to get you but the kissing part, they don't really care if it's against the rules. You and Aster, is there something going on between you?" America asks. I laugh and shake my head no.

"What's funny?" I look up to see Aster. My smile vanishes.

"Nothing." I roll my eyes.

"Rude much?" He says and I roll my eyes.

"What is wrong with her?" He asks America. She looks at me and I avoid her gaze.

"Nothing." She also says and I smile at her.

"There's something definitely wrong." He says unconvinced.

"Yeah. Like you blocking my view." I retort.

"Class hasn't even started yet." He crosses his arms over his chest.

"Settle down students." A lady claps drawing our attention. 

"You were saying?" I cock a brow at him and he takes a seat behind me.

"Okay, we have a new student with us. Where's she?" She asks and I stand.

"Oh there she is. Sweetie, can you introduce yourself?" She asks.

"Yes, I can but do I have to really do it?" I ask hoping she will say no.

"You have to." She says smiling. I huff.

"Hi, I'm Charlie Kent and I'm from West Africa." I say.

"Good. Now how do you feel introducing yourself?" She asks.

I decide to go Henry Danger style.

"Feels goood." I say getting chuckles from the students.

"Thank you Charlie. You may sit." Miss Rose says.

I sit and decide to pay attention to what Madam Rose is saying about essays.

A note falls on my table. It says, 'what is wrong with you?' Liam. I pass the note back without answering. I receive another one saying, 'please talk to me'. I pass it back again. Another one...argh! He's driving me crazy. I don't know why I'm pissed. There's nothing going on between us. 'Pleeeaassee... I can't stand this anymore. Talk to me.' 

I decide to reply and write, 'incase you haven't noticed...WE'RE IN CLASS AND THERE'S A TEACHER INFRONT OF US' and pass it back to him.

'I can see that wise one. I know you're bored just like I am'. I read and smile. America taps me and I read something she has written on a piece of paper. I really need to wear my glasses instead of these contacts. It says, 'DETENTION, THE TEACHER'. I nod and decide to ignore Aster.

"Now, you'll be writing an essay on what you think of London. Submission is on Friday. You have a lot of time for this project so don't disappoint me." Miss Rose says. 

We're almost in the month of Love, February. Today is the last day of January.

"Any questions?" Miss Rose asks.

"Since there are no questions, you may leave." She says after a moment of silence.

"I'm working with you." Aster says from behind.

"It's not even a group work." I snap.

"Still on the rude side. Okay." He sighs.

"Rude?"

"Saved by the bell." He gets up.

"Why are you in such a hurry? Oh I know... to see Paris." I snap.

"What? You're acting like this because of her?" He asks with amusement clear in his voice.

I don't speak.

"Are you jealous?" He asks smirking.

"Argh! Unbelievable." I rush out of the class.

I don't know the way to the cafeteria and I wouldn't know where to sit so I decide to find the library.

"Ouch! Sorry." I say. I just bumped into someone.

"Watch where you're going hottie." A guy says.

"You could have also said a sorry. It never hurts to say sorry." I say a bit pissed.

"Hey man that's Charlie." Maleek says coming towards me.

"The chick you have been talking about all weekend?" The guy I bumped into asked.

"Why is it that everyone was talking about me all weekend?" I ask.

"You're a good dancer, new and probably a nerd plus hot." The guy says like it's so obvious.

"Dude, shut up!" Maleek says.

"Okay I'm leaving. See you later." The guy says. 

"Where can I find the library?" I ask Maleek.

"Why are you going to the library during lunch?" He asks.

"Isn't it obvious. I don't know where I'll sit and where the cafeteria is." I respond.

"You can sit with me. Just come with me." He says and grabs my hand leading me to the cafeteria. The place is huge and filled with students.

"What do you want to eat?" He asks.

"No. I'm okay." I reply.

"You haven't answered my question." He says smiling.

"Whatever you'll have." I say and smile back. I don't know what they have there that's why I chose to go with whatever he's going for. I follow him and get our food.

"Thank you but it wasn't necessary." I say and he leads me to a table with some students, I think their his friends. He got me a brownie, salad, a slice of pizza and apple juice. Too much food.

"Hey guys, this is Charlie. Charlie, my friends." He introduces us.

"Hi Char, I'm Coco." A  girl says.

"Hi, nice to meet you Coco." I smile.

"Yeah, but are you gonna stand there and eat or are you sitting?" She asks and chuckles. The others introduce themselves too.

I take a seat next to Maleek and start eating. People are staring and I'm starting to feel uncomfortable.

"Is it just me or is that guy, Aster, undressing Charlie with his eyes?" Coco asks. I cough.

"Excuse me?" I ask.

"Sorry princess, you're new and all but he's been staring more than anyone else. Don't look though and I would have used the f-word but you're too cute." She smiles. We chuckle. 

"He's my cousin's bestie." I say.

"Oh good. That girl, Paris, just went over." She says.

"Can we stop talking about them?" I ask her.

"Alright princess but Paris is coming over."

"Hi Charlie. I have come to take you away from these low lives." She states.

"What did you just call them?" I ask her getting up.

"Argh! Do I have to repeat myself. You're pathetic just like them. I said I've..." Before she can say anymore, I pick up my apple juice and pour it on her white blouse.

"Never call someone low life and pathetic." I say sternly.

"You did not just do that." She says through gritted teeth.

"I did. Damn! It feels good." I say and the people around laugh.

"You messed with the wrong chick." She says and grabs pasta from someone's plate.

"Uh-oh!" I start running.

"Get back here." She screeches.

I pull empty chairs to block her from catching up with me but I bump into one of the women who serve lunch. She's not alone. She's with this man who I assume is the principal and Miss Shelley, the secretary.

"Hi. What a wonderful day it is to run around." I say awkwardly. I see Paris who is oblivious to the grown-ups in front of us. Immediately she sees me, she throws the pasta but fortunately and unfortunately for me, Miss Shelley decides to punish me by pulling my ear which causes me to move and the pasta hits the principal straight in the face.

Everyone gasps and the cafeteria goes silent.

"Ouch!" I exclaim. "Miss Shelley, my ear." I cry out. I should have gone to the library when I had the chance.

"You are in soo much trouble princess." She scolds.

The lunch lady tries to wipe the pasta out of the principal's face.

"That's better. Now the two young ladies who started this follow me." Mr. Principal frowns.