Chapter One
"Did you have any trouble today, miss?" the cashier asks as she rings up the prices on my clothes.
"No, thank you." i respond politely, even though i wish nothing more than to be home right now. School is starting soon, so my parent's sent me on a shopping spree while they take my little sister Lacey on one.
"The total is $2,832.85. Would you like to use cash or credit today?" she asks and i hold my finger up to her as i take my purse off my shoulder to find my money. Almost 3,000 dollars on clothes? That's totally not needed, especially when i could just go to Aeropostale or Hollister and get the clothes for cheaper.
"Cash, i suppose." i say, handing her the large wad of cash my parent's gave me. "Keep the change, i honestly don't need it."
"Oh, well thank you miss." she says sending me a greatful smile. What? It's better to give money, than waste it on clothes i don't need, considering i have a closet full at home.
"No problem." i say with a smile, and grab my bags, then walk out of the store.
Once i get to the front entrance to the mall, i notice it's already dark, and curse under my breath. I don't have my license yet, since my parent's won't let me get it until i'm eighteen, so i guess i'm walking.
Stepping out of the mall, i notice it looks like there could be a storm, but then again it was too dark to tell. After carefully crossing the road, I try to stay under the street lights, as the fear of something happening makes my stomach clinch painfully. Every little sound, sets me on edge. Even the soft sound of wind blowing. Nothing's going to happen, i need to calm down. I decide to take a short cut to my house, so instead of ten blocks, it's only seven. It's a more risky route, but i just want to be home already.
The sound of voices reaches my ears, and i turn quickly to see shadows ahead of me, coming from the park. Slowly approaching the fence to the park, i stay dead silent, to see if i can make out the voices. I locate the sound of the voices and see four guys surrounding another guy. I slowly take a step towards the fence, wondering what's goin on. You're probably thinking, is she stupid? In risky situations, i'm not the smartest. It's my worst quality, or at least that's what i think.
"We told you we'd come back for you. Now it's time for you to pay." a deep menacing voice says.
"Oooh, sorry. You pulled me out of my house before i could grab my wallet." another voice says, sounding calm, "No, wait a minute, i spent the last of my money on your hooker of a girlfriend." i gasp at his boldness and silent wish he'd shut up before they tried to hurt him. I don't even know the guy, but i feel like i need to step in.
"Shut up, smart ass." the first guy snaps, and takes a menacing step towards the calm guy. He swings, and the guy dodges it easily. "Not gonna fight back, pretty boy?"
"You think i'm pretty?" the man surrounded comments, sounding amused. "That's cute, but i told you i'm done fighting. Bribery will get you nowhere."
"After we're done with you, you'll be done with everything." the first guy threatens. He puts his hand in his jacket pocket, and pulls out something shiny. Oh no.. It's a gun. Throwing all caution to the wind, i decide to make myself known, and quickly run into the park, just a few feet away from the group.
"Wait!" i demand, and instantly regret it, as all four eyes are on me. The guy being surrounded tenses, his back to me, and he's probably wishing i would just leave. But, i'm already involved, so what now?
"Here to watch the show, little lady?" one of the guys ask with a smirk, and my eyes widen as i realize he's addressing me.
"I'll get you a front row seat." a guy behind me says and grabs my arms, then shoves me towards the group. I tighten my hold on one of my bags, and swing it back at the guy. He groans in pain, and i realize it has three boxes of shoes in it. Oh well. He lets his grip on me go, and i spring away from him.
"Come on! Run!" i scream, grabbing the man's hand and tugging him away from the other's, who were still shocked from my surprise attack.
I begin to sprint in the direction of my house without thinking twice about it. The guys start to run after us, shouting at us to stop, but that just made me want to run faster. Adrenaline pumps through my veins as i run down the street, keeping my tight grip on the man i'm dragging along. When we finally make it to my street, and i dig my hand into my front pocket, frantically searching for my house keys. The handles on my shopping bags slide down my arm, and weigh my wrists down, digging into my skin.
I run up the many steps to my house, still dragging the man behind me, and fumble with the keys in my hand. Letting out a frustrated groan, i finally slide the key into the lock and push the door open. I shove the man inside, shut the door and lock it. Breathing heavily, i double check the locks, just to make sure we're safe. Letting out a deep breath, i sink to my knees, trying to catch my breath.
I am in shape, since i do dance, but i have never run more than two blocks. That was like five. After a few minutes, my breathing turns to normal, but i stay in place, trying to calm my fast beating heart. What did i just do? That was so stupid! I silently curse to myself, running my hands through my long brown hair.
"Are you okay?"
A surprised gasp escapes my lips. I had completely forgot about him being here. Feeling embarrassed, i slowly push myself to my feet. "Yeah, you?"
"Never better."
Once more, i turn around and look out the side window, to make sure the guys didn't follow us. Seeing a shadow, behind me i jump, then almost laugh. I forgot he was there. Once again. How could i forget? I just forced a stranger into my house. Wow, that really was stupid. Why did i do this again? Returning to reality, i realize nobody is there, and let out a breath of relief.
"I think we lost them." i comment, finally turning around.
"That's good."
My eyes widen as my eyes finally land on the man before me. He lifts his head, and a gasp of surprise leaves my lips. When his eyes land on me, they widen a tad bit, and i realize i'm gawking. Feeling heat rush to my cheeks, i look down at my shoes, and bite my lip.
He had to have been the most handsome guy i have ever seen. The guy had to be at least 6 foot, which was a about six inches taller than me, and looks pretty muscular from what i can tell. Messy black hair, that falls into his eyes a bit, but perfectly frames his features. Deep green eyes. I have never in my life seen more captivating eyes. They were amazing.
"Are they gone?" he asks, snapping me out of my fascination on my Chuck Taylor's.
I slowly nod my head, feeling quite awkward. I've just now realize i practically forced him into my house. I don't even know him! That was incredibly stupid, but i was saving his life.
"I should probably go." he comments, pursing his lips.
"Already?" i ask, and feel my cheeks heat up, "i mean.. Of course."
"Someone else live with you?" he asks, as i hear the garage door go up.
"Yes," i say with wide eyes, "my family."
"I'm gonna now." he announces and i nod.
"Yeah, they might get freaked out if a strange man is in their house." i say as he walks towards the door.
"I'm not strange." he says, looking amused.
"No, you just get in fights at night in the park right?" i retort, and he smirks.
"Like you should talk. You knocked a guy out with a shopping bag!" he says looking amused and i feel a blush rise to my cheeks. "I must go now."
"Wait!" i demand, and he freezes as he pulls the door open.
"What?" he asks, turning to look at me.
"What's your name?"
"Secret" he says, putting a finger to his lips, "have a nice night." he says and walks out the door.
I shut and lock it behind him, just as i hear my parent's coming into the foyer. I hightail it up the staircase, and into my room. I shut my door, and set my bags down, then slink to my knees, still processing what had just happened. What did just happen? Did i really force someone into my house? Did i really just break up a fight? Where the hell did my boldness come from?
Standing up, i walk into my bathroom and strip of me clothes, then jump into the shower, making the water as hot as i can stand it. Grabbing my berries and cream shampoo and conditioner, i scrub my scalp, as many questions about the mystery guy flash in my head. Why wouldn't he tell me his name? Will i ever see him again? Why did those guys want to hurt him? Did he know know them?
How could i just force some stranger, into my house, when i didn't even know if my family was here or not? That was really stupid, and completely dangerous. If my parent's ever found out, i'd be more than dead. I'd be dead times one billion. He could have been dangerous! But, i highly doubt he was. Probably caught up with the wrong people at the wrong time. I have no right to judge, or make up a story about him, since i don't even know his name.
Never in my seventeen years of life, have i seen eyes that piercing green. So captivating, like they're searching your soul, and reading your every thought. Once you look into them, it's hard to look away, and then you just want to look at them some more. The simple color, yet so bold in his man's eyes, has me intrigued for the first time. My boring brown eyes are nothing compared to the soul-searching green he has.
Look at me, i'm already jealous of him. Talking non-stop about his eyes? Yes, they are extremely one of a kind and beatiful, but i don't even know this man. Who knows why he was fighting, though i try to keep good thoughts, it couldn't have been that good if he said 'Im done fighting.', which means he knows these men and have fought them once before. Did he get in trouble?
I really need to stop thinking about this mystery man. I'll probably never see him again, so why bother thinking up his past, when i don't even know his first name? It's most likely better off this way. He could cause me a lot of trouble, and my parent's just wouldn't have that, even if i wanted a little bit of mystery in my life.
Ugh, there i go again, making up stories about a man i don't even know. Time to forget about him, and just think about the things coming up. Like school. I'll be a senior this year. Finally. After having kick-ass grades since pre-k, i finally get a slightly easy year. Of course i still have to keep up my grades, and hold my place on the dance team, but i have easier classes this year.
I wonder if mystery guy is in school. Most likely college if he was. Seriously? I bring him up at everything. Who knows what he does? Not me, and it's not in my worries. I need to stop focusing on him. He's probably glad he got away from the girl who forced him into her house, even though i saved him. He didn't even thank me. Enough!
Sighing, i shut off the water, and wrap my towel around my body, then step onto the cold linoleum tiles of my bathroom. I pull on a tank top and a pair of basketball shorts, then towel dry my hair. After my hair is a dry as it will get with a towel, i walk into my room and make sure my alarm is set.
It's the first day of school tomorrow, and i know, i procrastinated a bit on my school shopping. It's not like i can't just go whenever. I bet if i had gone some other time, i wouldn't have met mystery guy. He might have died if i didn't show up. I really need to stop thinking about him. Pulling the covers back on my bed, i get under them, and immediately get comfy. My eyes start to slowly lower, and soon i'm engulfed by the darkness.
Chapter Two
A piercing sound reaches my ears, and i turn in my bed, reaching for whatever it is. My eyes fly open and i realize it's my alarm clock. It's the first day of school. My senior year. I slam my hand down on the alarm, and lift myself up into a sitting position. Counting to three, i rip the warm comforter off of me, and set my feet onto the cold hardwood floor.
"Libby, are you awake?" my mother asks and knocks on my door.
"Yes mother, i'm up." i say with a roll of my eyes. She pushes open my door and sighs when she notices me just sitting here.
"Get ready Libby, this is your last first day."
"Is Lacey awake?" i ask, ignoring her comment.
"Yes, she's waiting for you in the kitchen." i nod and walk past her, and down the stairs.
"Hey cutie pie." my dad says when i walk into the kitchen, "i made your favorite." he places a plate in front of me with an omelet on it, and a glass of water. My parent's are health freaks, but i absolutely love my dad's omelets.
"Thanks, dad."
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After eating, i head back up the stairs and straight into my bathroom. I scrub my face, then turn on my straightener. Straightening my hair, my mind drifts off to last night.
I really need to stop thinking about him. Those captivating eyes, they haunt my mind. I wish i knew his name. I wish i could at least see him again. That sounds stalkerish, but i just want to know him for some reason. I need to stop this. This obsession over Mystery Guy.
My phone begins to vibrate on my night stand and i jog towards my bed. Nichole, my best friend since pre-k. Sliding the answer key, i walk back into my bathroom to finish my hair.
"Hey Nic." i grab my straightener and begin on my hair again.
"Libs! It's our last first day! Woo hoo!" she cheers and i laugh.
"Woo hoo! You're picking me up, right?"
"Of course. I'm not letting my best friend walk." she says and i can tell she's rolling her eyes.
"Aw! You're just the sweetest doll face." i say with a country twang.
"Be there at eight, don't be late, cause i won't wait."
"Got it, Dr.Seuss." we hang up just as i finish my hair.
I grab my tooth brush and brush my teeth before going back into my room, then into my closet. It's pretty warm today, so i think i'll wear shorts. I grab a pair of white shorts, a black tank, and a bright blue crop top and toss them on. Then i grab my black converse and slide them on, just as i hear a car honk outside. I look at my phone, and notice it's already eight. She better not leave me.
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"I was just about to leave you." she comments when i slide into the passenger seat.
"And i would have never talked to you again."
"Yeah right, you love me." she says with a smirk.
"That could stop anytime now." i retort and start to drum my fingers to an invisible beat.
"Nervous?"
"What? No." i respond as she glances at me.
"Then why are you drumming?"
"I need to tell you something." i say finally and she smiles.
"Go ahead!" she chirps.
"Last night when i was coming home from the mall, i saw these four guys about to like kill this other guy. And you know my stupidity, i stopped it and dragged the guy back to my house." i stop when she starts to laugh.
"I'm sorry, please continue."
"Anyways," i start, sending her a glare, "when i finally looked at him, i was stunned. He was the best-looking guy ever. Black hair, a chiseled sturdy jaw, and captivating green eyes." i gush and she smiles at me.
"Someone's got a crush! What's his name?"
"He wouldn't tell me." i pout and notice we're now in the parking lot.
"Maybe he'll be a new student." she says with a shrug and i shake my head.
"No, he looked like he would probably be in college if anything." i say and she nods as we get out of the car.
"Sean! Luke!" Nichole calls to our best friend, Sean and her boyfriend, Luke.
"Hey cutie." Luke says and pecks her on the lips.
"Hey sugar pop." i mock, pinching Sean's cheek.
"Hi snicker doodle." he plays along and Nichole glares at us.
"We do not act like that."
"You so do." me and Sean comment in unison.
"Whatever, let's just go. We have five minutes until the first bell, and we still need our schedules."
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"What classes do you have?" Sean asks as Nichole and Luke walk away from us. I hand my schedule to him, and look it over as i look over his shoulder.
1. English 12 - Fishburne
2. Trigonometry & 3 -Castello
4. History II - Regal
5. Adv. Biology - Smith
6. Gym - Carlyle
7. Dance - Fenton
"Who's Castello? I have him too, same classes." Sean asks and i shrug.
"New teacher probably. How many classes do we have together?"
"Castello, Regal, and Smith." he says and i nod.
"Well, i have Fishburne, so i'll see you in second." we split up, and i head towards my first period class.
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It's now second period, and i'm trying to get on the other side of the school before the bell rings. The minute bell rings, and i know i'm not going to make it. It's not my fault i needed to stop at my locker! I might as well carry everything with me, to spare getting a detention and a lecture from my parent's. The bell rings right before i walk into the room, and i let out a frustrated groan.
"Since it's the first day, i won't give you detention. Just don't make a habit of it Miss.." a familiar voice trails off, waiting for me to say my last name. My eyes snap to the man in front of me and i gasp. His eyes widen slightly then he blinks and clears his throat.
"Angel." i say and take my seat next to Sean.
"Next time it's detention, Miss Angel."
"Smooth, Libby. Try not to get grounded." Sean says and i roll my eyes.
"I had to go to my locker, which is on the opposite side of the school." i whisper, and a hand slams onto my desk, making me jump.
"Good afternoon, class. My name is Mr.Castello, and i will be your trigonometry teacher this year."
Groans chorus throughout the class, as i keep quiet, my eyes locked on my Not-So-Mystery man. He glances down at me and i look away. Sean locks eyes with me and raises and eyebrow. I give him a look that says Tell-You-Later, and he nods then looks away.
"Mr.Castello, how old are you?" a voice asks, and i recognize it as my friend Jacob.
"Twenty-two." he says simply and everyone's jaws drop, including mine. "Not that it matters to any of you." he states, glancing at me. My hand curls into a fist and he smirks at my reaction.
"How are you a teacher if you're the age of a college student?" Sean asks, crossing his arms over his chest.
"I skipped a grade in high school." he replies simply and i roll my eyes, "Oh, Miss Angel, i'd like to speak to you after class about your tardiness."
"But you said i wouldn't get in trouble." i state, staring at him in disbelief.
"You aren't in trouble." he chuckles and walks over to his desk.
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The rest of the day goes by pretty quick, and now i'm in dance. We're told to run up and down the bleachers until the timer stops. She blows the whistle, and we all clamber up the bleachers. The doors to the gym open, but i keep my focus on the rows of bleachers. Usually i'm pretty clumsy, so i'm surprised i can do this.
"Is a Libby Angel in here?" a suave, calm voice asks and i look over to see Mr.Castello talking to the coach. I stumble on one of the rows, but Nichole quickly balances me, and i continue to descend the bleachers. If she hadn't of caught me, i would have fallen all the way down the bleachers.
"Yes, not exactly sure where at, but the back of their shirts have their last names on them." the coach responds, as i turn to go back up the bleachers. Something grabs ahold of me and i stumble back. I turn to glare at whatever it was, but stop short when i realize it's Mr.Castello.
"Mr.Castello, what do you need?" i ask with fake politeness.
"Just making sure you don't try to skip out on coming to my class."
"How did you know i was in here?" i ask, my hands on my hips.
"I checked. Bet i can beat you." he says, motioning to the bleachers.
"You're on."
"If i win, you serve detention." he starts.
"And if i win, i never have to have detention with you."
"Deal." we shake hands and i begin to count down.
3..2..1!" i shout and we both start up the bleachers. He pushes me and i stumble, so he takes the lead. I quickly catch up, and push him with all i have, but he doesn't budge. He chuckles as he makes it to the bottom before me.
"Looks like you have detention after all, Miss Angel."
"You cheated!" i exclaim in disbelief. If my parent's find out, i am beyond dead.
"Deals a deal."
"Fine, just.. don't tell my parent's." i plead and he narrows his eyes.
"I won't. Now, let's go Miss Angel." he says, and i was going to object, but the bell rang just then. Sighing, i follow him out of the gym after grabbing my bag from the ground by the door.
We walk into his room, and i set my bag next to the door. He motions for me to follow him, as he heads towards the supply closet. I follow after him, curious as to what he will make me do. He stops and i almost run into him, not paying attention.
"What?" i ask and he points to a bunch of boxes.
"Unpack those books and put them in their correct places."
"Why me?"
"I won, plus you've been here longer." he says with a shrug and i roll my eyes. He tosses me a switch blade, then strolls out of the closet, leaving me to do his work.
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After an hour of unpacking, Mr.Castello walks back into the supply closet. He takes the switch blade from me as i scramble to my feet.
"Can i go now?"
"Yes, but you'll stay after until you finish." he says and i glare at him. Oh great, i forgot Nichole drove me. Guess i'm walking home. "Need a ride?"
"No, i can walk." i grab my bag from beside the door and try to leave the class when a hand grabs my arm.
"I can drive you home. I'm sure you don't want to walk in the rain." he says and i look out the window in his room, and sure enough, it's raining really hard.
"Um," i start, chewing on my bottom lip, "okay."
"Good, let's go." we walk out of the room and start down the hall towards the nearest corridors. He holds the door open for me and i stroll out of the school then wait for him. He walks ahead of me and i follow behind until he stops at a black audi.
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"Remember where i live?" i ask as we turn onto my road. He smirks and nods. "Stalker." i say in a sing song voice.
"I'm not a stalker. You're the one who force me in there." he says glancing at me as we drive down the road. He pulls into my driveway, and i reach for the handle but he quickly locks the door.
"What?"
"Don't forget to stay after tomorrow, and if i think you're going to skip, i'll interrupt your dance class again, Miss Angel." he says and i roll my eyes.
"Goodbye Mr.Castello." i say and flip the lock, then get out before he can lock the door again. I jog to my front door, and push it open, to be greeted by my parents.
"Who was that and why were you late?" my mom asks as soon as i take a step into the house.
"That was a friend who was driving me home from dance practice." i say and her eyes light up.
"You're staying after to do more practice? I'm so proud!" she says and hugs me. Although i feel guilty for lying, i also feel overjoyed that my mom is proud of me for once.
"Libby, we need to speak to you." my dad says and i look up at him. "Sweetie.. Me and your mom are divorcing."
"W-what?"
"It's just not working out pumpkin." he explains and i feel my heart drop. They're really divorcing? But they always seem so happy together.
"Um.. W-who will i be living with?" i ask, knowing the answer already.
"Since it's your last year, you will live with me, and Lacey will go live with your father in Arkansas." my mom says and my jaw drops.
"Arkansas?! I'll never see you guys!" i cry and my dad pulls me into a hug.
"You will fly out once every other month, then Lacey will fly out." he says and i pull away from him.
"Does she know? She's only 7! She shouldn't have to fly back and for just to see her mommy and daddy!" i exclaim and ignore my mother's disapproving looks. I storm up the stairs and into my room, slamming the door shut. How could they do this to us?
So they know how affected i am by this, and then some, it's time to resort to dirty tactics. Time for me to stop being a little princess, but i'll need help with that. I just don't know who. Maybe Sean? No, he doesn't know what trouble is. Maybe Nichole.. Yeah, definitely her.
I pull my phone out of my back pocket and slink to my knees. Dialing her number, i wait until the third ring when she answers.
"Hey Libs!"
"Hey." i sniffle, laying down on the wood floor.
"What's wrong?"
"Come over, please?" i ask, my voice cracking.
"Be there in five."
"Sneak in through my window." i say and we hang up.
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A knock on my window causes me to jump, and i turn my head to see Nichole climbing in the window. She turns around, then stops. "Why are you on the floor?" she asks and lays next to me.
"My parent's are getting a divorce, and my dad and Lacey are moving to Arkansas." she gasps and pulls me into a hug.
"Wow Libs, that's awful." i nod and sit up, her following suit.
"I need you to help me stop being a goody two shoes." i say and she raises an eyebrow.
"I'm so touched you thought of me." she says and places a hand on her heart dramatically.
"I'm serious. I can't take this anymore. Plus, with my dad gone, my mom will go crazy on me." she nods in agreement and looks off in thought.
"Got it!" she exclaims with an evil smirk.
Chapter Three
"No."
"Yes."
"No!"
"Yes!"
"Why?!" i demand as me and Nichole have a glaring competition.
"Because you said he was in fights right? He could teach you to be bad!" she defends and i roll my eyes.
"Yes, I'm going to walk up to him and say 'you know how you fight? yeah, well can you teach me to be bad?' Um, no."
"You wouldn't word it like that." she says rolling her eyes.
"Oh? And how would you word that?"
"You just.. talk to him while you have detention. Tell him your story, and see if he can help you." she says as if it's obvious.
Thinking about it for a second, i give in, "I-i guess i could try..."
"That's a good girl!" i roll my eyes as she pats my head like a dog. Some friend i have.
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I'm in dance class again, and i hear one of the gym doors open. Glancing over, i see Mr. Castello watching me. He smirks at me and i roll my eyes, continuing to do our dance routine. After another five minutes, i stop and take my place in front of the class. Our coach is absent, so whenever that happens, I'm in charge of the class, since I'm captain.
"Okay guys, that's it for today. You all did really well, and we are for sure going to kick butt at the pep rally on Saturday!" everyone cheers and fists pumps as they run to the locker room to change. I stay where i am, and Mr.Castello strolls over to me. I begin to feel uncomfortable under his gaze, as i remember i'm only in booty shorts and a sports bra, plus i'm sweaty. Ew.
"Just making sure you wouldn't ditch."
"Cause that's just my master mind scheme, right? Skip while i know you're going to stalk me to make sure i don't skip? You know, you're the first person to ever give me detention." i say and stick my nose up.
"There's always a first for everything."
"Whatever, let's just go." i say, and remember that i'm supposed to ask him to help me be bad. "Mr.Castello?"
"Call me Ryan."
"Okay.. Um, Ryan?" i ask, slightly uncomfortable.
"Yes, Miss Angel?"
"Why did those guys surround you that one night?" i ask, trying to find a good place to start.
"Wait until we're in my room, then ask me."
We walk down the empty hallways in silence, a million thoughts going through my head. Was it some kind of secret? Am i even aloud to know? Will it harm me in some way? All these questions zoomed through my mind, until we finally stepped into his classroom. He flipped the lock, then sat down on his chair, and i sat on the edge of his desk.
"Now can i ask?" he nods, so i continue, "Why did those guys want to fight you?"
"I was in a gang, and i left without reason, so they were trying to get me back."
"Y-you were.. In a gang?" he just nods and looks up at me. "But why did you leave? And why were you even in the gang?"
"The reason i left is another story. As for your other question, i thought it was cool. I was sixteen when i was asked to join, and they would stop at nothing for me to accept."
"What do you mean?" i ask and he stands up, turns around, and lifts up his shirt. At first, i quickly look away and he chuckles.
"Just look." i look back up and see a scar going all the way down his back.
"They did that to you so you'd join the gang?" i ask, completely shocked.
"Not just that, they did more, but i can't tell you. Why do you want to know all of this anyways?" It's now or never Libby, just spit it out.
"I want you to teach me to be bad. You know, a rebel." i blurt, and feel myself blush as he looks at me with his eyebrows raised.
"May i ask why?"
"I've always been a goody two shoes, obeying whatever my parent's command me to do. Like, i never fail a single subject, i'm the captain of the dance team, I've never missed a single day of school, but they still aren't satisfied. And now, they're getting a divorce for some reason, and i'm stuck with my mom, who is the worst at trying to make me be perfect. I'm just sick of it." i explain and look back up at him, "Will you help me?"
"I can try but.. Nobody can turn into a rebel in just one day, well, except for me." i roll my eyes at his cockiness.
"Where do we start then?" i ask and he looks in thought for a second.
"What's the number one thing your parent's don't want you to do?"
"Get less than an A on a subject." i respond almost immediately. They'd hate if i didn't have a perfect 100% on everything.
"Then first things first, you need to get at least a C on something. What's your worst subject?"
"Uh... This class." i say with a sheepish grin and he looks at me like 'Are you kidding me?'
"Well, i want you to pass this class so, second worst class?"
"Um... Spanish." i respond and his eyes light up.
"You have to fail Spanish."
"Fail Spanish? Are you kidding me?" i ask, my eyes wide.
"Do you want my help, or not?"
"I do, i do. Okay, but how do i fail it?" Is my teacher really telling me to flunk something?? That's crazy.
"Stop doing your homework, and participating in class, and just.. act like you don't give a shit. What?" he notices me staring at him like he's crazy and i shake my head.
"I'm sorry, i just can't believe my teacher is telling me to flunk." he chuckles and i roll my eyes.
"What's the second worst thing you could do?"
"Have a boyfriend." i say with a sigh.
"You're not aloud to date?"
"Nope." i say popping the 'p'.
"Then we need to get you a boyfriend. I know plenty of guys that would like to be with you."
"How? You've been here for two days." i ask in disbelief.
"You'd be surprised by how many guys come to talk to me. Especially about you."
"Really? Who likes me?" i ask and he smirks.
"You're so naive."
"Ugh, if i don't know who, then how am i supposed to date them?" i ask and his smirk widens.
"I know the perfect guy. Emphasis on perfect."
"What are you talking about?" i ask, as i take a sip from my water bottle.
"You're going to date me." i do a spit-take, and he laughs, ignoring the fact that i just spit water out on his face. "Fake dating of course, but your reaction was so worth it."
"You're a jerk." i say and glare at him.
"I know. Now, if we really want your parent's to believe we're dating, we need each others numbers. Put like cutesy nicknames and shit, then have a couple pictures i guess."
"I wouldn't know." i say, smiling wryly. He smirks and puts his hand out with his iPhone in it. I take it out of his hand, and place my iPhone back into his hand. I tap the contacts list, and add my name as 'My Angel<3' then type in my number. We switch phones back and he smirks at my name.
"My Angel? That's pretty smart."
"Baby boy? How original." i say with a smirk of my own and he gasps.
"Isn't that what girls usually call their boyfriends?"
"Like i said, i wouldn't know." i say flatly and he crinkles up his nose.
"Onto the pictures." he pushes himself up from his seat and grabs my hand, pulling me to my feet and into him. He grabs my phone and taps the camera icon. Not expecting it, he places his lips to my cheek, his eyes close. I blush and force a smile, looking down at the ground. He taps the camera button then looks at the picture.
"That's pretty cute, i must admit." i say and he chuckles. He taps a couple things and i look at him with my eyes narrowed.
"We are your new lock screen wallpaper." he shows me my phone and i blush at the picture.
"My turn." i say and grab his phone, tapping the camera icon. I stand up on my tip toes and press my lips to his cheek, closing my eyes, then tapping the camera button. I hear the snap of the camera, then lower myself onto my feet again. I tap the picture and smile. Me kissing Mr.Castello's cheek, and him smiling at the camera, his eyes glowing bright. I set it as his lock screen wallpaper and hand him his phone back.
"Now, it's time for actual detention." i sigh and make my way back to the supply closet, switchblade in hand. I pull my phone out of my pocket, and smile at the picture before starting to unpack the boxes.
| | | |
About an hour later, Mr.Castello comes into the supply closet and takes the switchblade from me, as i lay out on the floor. He looks down at me smirking and holds his hand out to me. I look at his hand, then up at him, and slide my hand into his. He pulls me to my feet with ease, then lets go of my hand.
"Tired?"
"Yes, and scared." i say focusing my attention on the floor.
"About what will happen when your parent's find out you're 'dating' me?" he uses air quotes around the word dating and i nod. "I'm sure since you've never been in trouble, they won't do something drastic. They probably won't even know how to punish you."
"That's true." i respond, nibbling on my bottom lip.
"Need a right home?"
"You wouldn't mind?" i ask, looking up at him.
"It'll help you prove we're 'dating', plus you don't need to be walking home alone."
"Okay, sure." i say and grab my bag from beside the door to his room, as he grabs his stuff from his desk. He shuts off the lights, then locks the door after we exit the room. We begin to walk down the hallway in silence, as my mind replays every scenario that could happen when i tell them about my 'boyfriend'.
"Stop over thinking it. Just wait until you actually drop the bomb."
"Yeah, i guess you're right." i admit, as i slide into the passenger seat to his car.
"Of course i am." i roll my eyes at his cockiness and look out the window as he pulls onto the road.
We pull into my driveway, and the front door opens, revealing my parents. I get out of the car, and Mr.Castello does too. Why did he just get out? And why are my parent's out here too? Did they see us pull up?
"Libby, who is this?" my mother asks, giving me a hard look.
"My boyfriend, Ryan." i say, almost choking on the word boyfriend.
"Boyfriend?!" they exclaim at the same time.
"Libby Rochelle Angel, get inside this instant!" my dad yells and i look at Mr.Castello, and he walks towards me. Then doing something i didn't expect, he pulls me into him, and kisses right next to my lips, to look like we're kissing. I freeze and he taps my arms, hinting at me to wrap them around his neck. I do as he wanted and he places his hands on my waist.
"Get off of my daughter! Libby! Get inside right now!" my dad yells again and Mr.Castello pulls away, leaving me blushing and in a daze.
"See you later, Angel." he says smoothly, and gets in his car. Sending a wink my way, he starts the car and pulls out of the driveway. I place my fingers to my cheek and watch as he drives off, until he disappears.
He just stole my first fake kiss.
Wait,
scratch that.
My teacher just stole my first fake kiss.
In front of my parents.
I'm dead.
Chapter Four
"You go to church every Sunday?" Mr.Castello whispers to me as we walk up the steps to the church.
"Yes, why?"
"I bet if you ditched, your parents would be pissed." he says and i narrow my eyes at him.
"Being grounded for a week is enough for now."
"Wow, i'm surprised we aren't turning to ashes." he comments as we step through the church doors. I can't help but let out a giggle. Oh my God, did i just.. giggle??
"Lying is a sin, watch out, you might melt Mr.Castello."
"You're lying too, Angel. And call me Ryan." he says and i nod.
"Libby...er, why is he here?" Sean asks as he stops in front of us. I hold up my pointer finger and pull my phone out of my pocket. Sending him a quick explanation. He frowns, then smirks and shakes his head.
"Nichole's idea?" he asks and i nod. He nods and walks away from us. What's up with him?
"I know what's up with him, but you're too naive to know yourself." Mr.Castello comments and i realize i said that out loud.
"Whatever. Let's just get this over with. I can't wait to see my parent's expressions when they see you here."
"Kind of like that?" he asks and i look up to see my parent's staring at us with large, wide eyes.
"Libby.. what is he doing here?" my mom asks and i feel Mr.Castello put his arm across my shoulder.
"What? I can't bring my boyfriend to church? Oh no, is that a sin?"
"Libby! You will not back talk, or we will ground you for longer." my dad scolds and i roll my eyes.
"Stop acting like a whore, and straighten up Libby Rochelle Angel." my mom says, and that's when I've had enough. Tears spring to my eyes.
"Since I'm such a whore, I'll be leaving now so i don't burn down the place!" i run out of the church with Mr.Castello following close behind. I run down the steps and ignore his calls as i run into the cemetery next to the church. Slinking down to my knees, i let out a sob. A whore? I am not a whore! Even though it's not true, it hurts when your own mother calls you that.
"Hey, shh don't listen to her." Mr.Castello says as he squats in front of me.
"How can i not listen to her, Mr.Castello? My own mother just called me a whore because i have a freaking boyfriend that's not even real!"
"We can stop this, if you want to." he comments, and i look up at him.
"No, i want to prove to her that I'm not her little princess anymore. That i can't just not enjoy life because she wants me to be perfect. I am not perfect! Nobody is perfect!"
"Then we need to make you a little bit more rebellious. What's something else you're not supposed to do?" he asks, and i think for a second.
"Get my permit and license."
"Then let's go to the DMV and get you a driver's manual." he says casually and my eyes widen.
"Seriously?"
"Seriously. And when you pass your permit test, i will teach you to drive." he sounds calm, but he's probably dreading that he just offered to help me learn to drive. Hope he doesn't want to live long.
"If your death wish is to die young, then sure."
"Don't worry, I'm a good driver, so you will be too." he says cockily and i roll my eyes.
"Why are you helping me?"
"I figured since I'm doing something for you, you could do something for me." he says and i narrow my eyes.
"What?"
"My friend Chase is moving here, and he's having a house warming party, so you are going to go with me." he says with a shrug and i look at him as if he grew another head.
"What?? Why me??"
"He'll probably find you interesting, and leave me alone." he says like it's the most obvious thing in the world.
"I don't have a choice, do i."
"Nope, not really." he replies with a smirk, and pulls me to my feet. I sigh in defeat and nod.
"When is it?"
"Tonight." he says with a shrug and my jaw drops.
"Then you sir, are taking me shopping."
| | | |
"What about this one?" Mr.Castello asks, holding up a short red sequin dress that even hookers wouldn't want to wear.
"Um, no. Something classy, please."
"I'm looking, I'm looking. But it doesn't help if i don't know what size dress you wear." he retorts and i bite my lip. Do i tell him?
"You know what? I don't think i want to wear a dress."
"Okay, what are you planning on wearing?" Mr.Castello asks, placing a dress back on the rack.
"Maybe just a nice shirt, black skinny jeans, and a jacket?"
"Alright, i still need to know your sizes though." he says with a knowing smirk. Damn, i didn't think this through.
"Fine, extra small in shirts and jackets, and a size zero in jeans."
"Well now i know your dress size too, so go try this on while i look for the rest." he says and hands me a tight purple strapless dress. I nod and go into the changing room.
Stripping of my clothes, i look at myself in the mirror. Am i too thin? I mean, I'm a senior in high school who weighs that of a 15 year old girl. But it's not like i don't have curves. What does Mr.Castello think? Does he think I'm too skinny? Or maybe too big? Oh, who cares. I need to try this on before he comes back. I slip into the tight dress, that ends mid-thigh, and zip it up. Turning towards the mirror, i gasp. This dress is perfect.
"Done yet?" Mr.Castello asks and knocks on the door. I pull the dressing room door open, and he takes in the ensemble. "The look on your face proves my theory. You wanted a dress all along, but you didn't want to tell me your sizes."
"Does it look okay?"
"Yes, are you getting it?" he asks, and i notice him holding something behind his back.
"Yeah, i think so."
"Good, cause these go with it, or the lady in the store said so." he says and produces a pair of gray military booties.
"Perfect. Thank you."
"You're welcome, now get changed. The party is in 2 hours." he says and i gasp.
"Two hours?! That's hardly enough time to get ready."
He shrugs, then his eyes snap back to mine, "You can get ready at my place, since your parent's probably wouldn't allow you out of the house."
"But i don't have any of my stuff."
"I'll drive you there, you sneak in and get everything, then come back out." he suggests and i nod.
| | | |
By the time we get to the party, we're fifteen minutes late. I wonder if it's still cool to be fashionably late? Who knows, I've never been to a party. I feel old.
"You getting out?" Mr.Castello comments after pushing his door open. I put my hand on the handle, and freeze. He sighs and gets out of the car, shutting his door behind him. Next thing i know, my door is open, and he's pulling me out of the car. I blush bright red and slap his hands away from my waist. He chuckles and says, "You left me no choice."
"Whatever. Let's just.. go inside."
He walks ahead of me up to the front door, and just pushes the door open. Shouldn't he knock? The loud bass of the beat thumps through out the house and vibrates through me. He motions for me to step inside first, so i take a step into the house and he follows close behind. Everyone's eyes land on us, and people start to whisper. What the hell?
"Ryan! Glad you could make it." a woman says and comes up to Ryan, and pulls him into a kiss. He pushes her away and glares at her before grabbing my arm and pulling me away from the whispering group. Who the hell was that? Why did she kiss him? And why did he push her away?
"I'll be right back, don't go anywhere." He instructs and i mock salute him as he walks away.
"Hey cutie, wanna dance?" someone asks and grabs my hands from behind.
"Pretty sure that's not how you dance."
"Shut up, bitch." he whispers and i turn to see one of the guys that had tried to kill Mr.Castello the other night. Shit. He tightens his hold on me and shoves me towards the front door, not one person questioning what he's doing.
He shoves me into the backseat of a Lamborghini. I quickly sit up and realize two more of the guys from the park are in the front seat. The first guy slides into the backseat next to me, and places a gun to my right temple.
"Pull out your phone." he commands and i do as he says, pulling my phone out of my bra. Don't even start. I know you've done it before. "Call Castello, on speaker." i dial Mr.Castello's number and put the phone on speaker.
"Angel, i told you not to move. Where the hell are you?" he commands and i try to open my mouth, but the guy slaps his hand over it.
"She's with us, Castello." the guy says and i hear Mr.Castello curse under his breath.
"Why her? You knew i was there, why not grab me?" Mr.Castello demands.
"Meet us at the old warehouse in fifteen minutes. Bring Green with you, or she dies." the guy commands and i hold in a groan. Really? The one time i decide to go to a party, this shit happens.
"How do i know you actually have her?" Mr.Castello asks, and the guy slowly slides a knife down my arm. A strangle cry escapes my lips and the guy covers my mouth again. The line goes dead and i bite my lip, the pain shooting through me.
We pull onto a long, winding dirt road, and continue to drive for about 5 minutes. An abandoned warehouse comes into view and i notice Mr.Castello's car already parked, and him leaning against the hood. How did he get here so fast?
"How the hell did you get here before us?" the guy demands, reading my mind.
"I didn't win all the races for nothing, Ricky." Mr.Castello says simply. Wait, races? One of the guys pull me out of the car, the gun still on my temple.
"Where's Green?" one of the guys asks and i suddenly feel my arms go free and hear someone groaning.
"Right here." a deep voice says and i turn around to see a guy about six foot two, with blue eyes, and short brown hair. "Well hi there." he addresses me with a wink.
"Hi."
"Now is not the time for a hook up." Mr.Castello says, and pulls me away from him.
"The girl stays here with Green and Ricky. The boss will be here in a minute." one of the guys says and i look at Mr.Castello questioningly.
"The boss? Let me guess, Carson?" Mr.Castello comments amused and one of the guy grunts his reply.
"Excuse me, what exactly is going on?"
"Drag race." Mr.Castello replies simply.
"Drag race? But why am i here?"
"I'll explain later." he replies and i roll my eyes.
"Ryan, so good to see you again. I see you've brought a new friend." a new guy says and stops in front of me, "Hi, i'm Carson, and you are?" my eyes dart to Mr.Castello and he shakes his head.
"My name is Angel." he nods and looks next to me, to one of the other guys.
"That's how Castello answered our call, so it seems legit." he comments and i hold back a sigh of relief. Mr.Castello always calls me that.
"Alright, Angel. We are going to have a little race. Castello vs. Me. Whoever wins, gets you." he says and i narrow my eyes.
"Why me?"
"You're quick, you'd be a great addition to my gang." he replies simply.
"Let's get this over with, Carson." Mr.Castello speaks up and Carson scowls.
"I don't remember you being the leader, Castello." Carson says and Mr.Castello rolls his eyes.
"Or you could forfeit." Mr.Castello comments.
"Shut up Castello, or your girl gets hurt." Carson says and i feel myself being pulled into someone, but not roughly.
"I'm not his girl."i comment and look over my shoulder to see Mr.Castello's friend.
"Let's go, Carson." Mr.Castello says and heads toward his car. Carson gets into the Lamborghini and revs the engine. Ricky grabs my arm and shoves me into the back seat of a car, and Mr.Castello's friend slides into the other side.
"Why do i get pushed in, but he can get in by himself?"
"I'm a big boy." he says and i roll my eyes, "By the way, i'm Chase Green."
"Angel."
"That your real name?" he asks and i notice the other guys aren't in the car yet.
"Libby Angel."
"Oh! You're Libby. I've heard about you. You're the one that hit Ricky with a shopping bag, and dragged Ryan all the way to your house, and forced him inside." he says amused and i grimace at the memory.
"Yeah, that's me."
"Alright, let's go." Ricky says as he slides into the front seat, and the other two slide in the passenger seat and next to Chase. I see Mr.Castello speed down the dirt road with Carson right behind him.
"Where are we going?"
"The tracks." Chase says and i realize that's where they're going to race.
"What if Mr.Castello doesn't win?"
"Don't worry, he's the best there is." he says simply and i nod.
About ten minutes later, we pull into a garage, and i'm pulled out of the car. Ricky pulls me towards the end of the track, and i can barely make out the headlights on the cars. Chase walks up next to me, and we take a seat on the bottom row of benches.
"Which car is Mr.Castello's?"
"The Audi, his lights are more of a rectangle shape. Carson's in the Lambo, and the lights are more of a triangle shape." Chase explains and i nod, keeping my eyes locked on Mr.Castello's car. All of a sudden, i hear a gun shot and the sounds of engines revving meets my ears. They're about to start. "You do realize this means that Ryan is pretty much fighting for you, right?"
"I'm his student, i'm pretty sure he'd get in trouble if i got stuck with a gang."
Another gun shot goes off, and both cars start to speed down the track. I keep my eyes locked on Mr.Castello's car and pray that he wins. The cars stay neck and neck, until Carson's car swerves over and tries to knock Mr.Castello off the track. Mr.Castello swerves into Carson, making Carson go off track for a second.
"Are they allowed to do that?"
"There are no rules in drag racing." Chase comments, his eyes locked on the speeding cars. The cars get closer and closer, and i can clearly see Mr.Castello's face through the windshield. His face serious, as he focuses on the road ahead of him. They get closer and closer to the finish line, and i sit on the edge of the bench in anticipation. Mr.Castello speeds past the finish line, with Carson right behind him, and i let out a sigh of relief. "You doubted him, didn't you."
"Can you blame me?" both cars come to a stop, and the two get out. Carson swings a punch at Mr.Castello who easily dodges is and swings at him, hitting Carson square in the jaw. He staggers backwards and Mr.Castello swings at him again. "Why are they fighting?"
"I'm guessing Carson isn't happy that Ryan won again." Chase comments as the two other guys break up the fight. Mr.Castello comes over to us and looks me over.
"They didn't touch you, did they?" he asks looking me over.
"You know i wouldn't let anyone touch her man." Chase says, rolling his eyes.
"I'm fine."
"Good." he says and heads towards his car, "Let's go."
"Where are we going?" Chase asks enthusiastically as he slides in the passenger seat of the car. I slide in the back seat and fasten my seat belt, zoning out their conversation. This is more trouble than i ever thought i would get into.
"Is that alright, Angel?" Mr.Castello asks, breaking me out of my thoughts.
"Huh?"
"You spending the night at my apartment, is that okay with you?" he asks, glancing at me through the rear view mirror.
"Um, i guess so.. But why?"
"Well one, all of your stuff is at my place, and two, your parent's would kill you if they saw you in that dress." he replies, and i look down, completely forgetting i was in this skimpy dress.
"That's true. Wait!"
"What??" they chorus, and Mr.Castello slams on the brakes.
"I have school tomorrow."
Mr.Castello chuckles and starts to drive again, then glances at me through the mirror, "You'll skip. It adds more to your plan anyways."
"What plan?" Chase asks glancing between us.
"Libby's parent's are strict and she's not allowed to do anything. She's not supposed to date, drive, get worse than an A+, quit dance, or have any type of freedom." Mr.Castello starts.
"So, i asked him to help me. I'm failing Spanish, Mr.Castello is going to teach my to drive, we went to a party for like a second, and he's pretending to be my boyfriend."
"I could be your pretend boyfriend. It'd cause less trouble, cause if the school finds out, you'll be expelled and Ryan here will probably go back to jail." Chase says and his eyes widen as Mr.Castello's jaw clenches.
"That would make more sense. How old are--Wait, did you say go back
?"
Chapter Five
"Who wants cinnamon pie?" Chase says, ignoring my question. Wait, cinnamon pie?
"What's cinnamon pie? And why are you ignoring my question?"
"Don't you watch Psych?" he asks, turning in his seat to look at me.
"Oh! I saw that episode the other day. That looked really good. Do you know a place that makes it?"
"Yes, and we're headed there now." he says and i narrow my eyes.
"I thought we were going to Mr.Castello's?"
"We are. Ryan here makes the best cinnamon pie in the whole world." Chase praises and Mr.Castello shrugs, not seeming as tense as he was a few moments ago. Speaking of that.. i guess i should just let it go.. for now. I really want to know what Chase meant by 'go back'.
"We're here." Mr.Castello announces and we get out of the car. Large, cold rain drops land on my head repeatedly, until i feel something go over my head as i rush to get into the building. Looking up, i see Mr.Castello holding his jacket over my head as we scurry into the building, Chase ahead of us.
Once we get inside, Mr.Castello drops his jacket onto my shoulders and motions me towards the elevator, obviously not aware of how shocked i am. We get in the elevator, and i look at the two guys beside me, both pretty much soaked from the downpour. The elevator rises, making a ding sound each floor we reach.
The doors finally slide open, and both men motion for me to step out first, even though i have no idea as to where I'm supposed to go. I step out of the elevator, and wait off to the side for them. When they reach me, i follow closely behind them as they whisper about something to each other. Mr.Castello slaps Chase on the back of the head, and i figure they're talking about him almost spilling Mr.Castello's secret. If it even is a secret. Maybe he was just joking?
We come to a stop outside one of the doors, and i assume it's Mr.Castello's. Proving my suspicions, he slides a key into the lock, and turns it, then pushes the door open. Chase steps inside first, and Mr.Castello waits for me to pass my. I step into the entrance way and my eyes dart all over the room. In what I'm guessing is the living room is three red walls, and one wall made completely of windows. On one wall, there is a black leather couch against it, with two black leather chairs across from each other, and a glass coffee table in between them. Across from the couch on the opposite wall, is a large flat screen television, and a black shelf set on the ground below it. Looking down, i see dark wood flooring as i slide off my heals, which were causing my feet so much pain.
"Nice place." i comment as i hand Mr.Castello his jacket back.
"Thank you. Have a seat, and I'll order pizza." he says and i take a seat on one of the leather chairs, "What kind do you like?"
"I'm not picky, so it doesn't matter."
"A girl who isn't picky? Ryan, where did you find this girl." Chase comments and i roll my eyes, willing my blush not to show.
"I hardly found her, she found me when she decided to interrupt a fight." Mr.Castello replies as he glances at me from the entrance to the kitchen, phone in hand. I blush and they both chuckle,"Hi, I'd like to order--" his voice trails off as he enters the kitchen.
"How old are you?" Chase asks and i look up at him.
"Seventeen, how old are you?"
"Twenty." he replies and my jaw drops.
"Really? How do you know Mr.Castello?"
"Through school, and the fact that he dated my step-sister." he says with a grimace.
"Protective of her?"
"No, she's a slut. She used him. I think she was at my party tonight." he comments, and i remember the girl that kissed him.
"There was a girl that kissed him, and he seemed pretty angry about it."
"That was probably her. What'd she look like?" he asks, seeming interested.
"Blonde hair, about 5'7, brown eyes i think."
"Yeah, that was her." he says and i nod.
"What happened exactly?"
"That's not my story to tell, sorry." he apologizes as Mr.Castello walks into the room.
"Already apologizing? What did you do?" he asks and Chase smirks.
"I didn't do anything, did i Libby?" Chase asks, and they both look at me expectantly.
"He didn't do anything."
"Good." he comments and sits on the couch, "Pizza will be here in about a half hour. Do you guys want to watch a movie?"
"Sure! Can i choose?!" Chase chirps happily and i smile at his excitement. He was easy to please.
"Maybe Libby wants to choose?" Mr.Castello asks, and looks over at me.
"I don't mind, he can choose."
"You are awesome Libby!" Chase comments and i laugh. See? Easily pleased.
"Libby, why is your chest lighting up?" Mr.Castello asks, looking amused. My eyes drop to my chest and i realize my phone is in my bra.
"My phone." i reply sheepishly and pull it out, "Wow, i have 70 missed calls and 90 texts."
"Your parents?" Mr.Castello comments as Chase bounds over to the shelf below the tv.
"55 calls from them, and 62 texts. The rest are from Nichole and Sean asking where i am and if I'm okay. I'm going to go call them back." he nods as i push myself out of the chair and into the kitchen. I do a three way call, and listen as the lines ring.
"Libby!" they chorus together.
"Three way call."
"Where are you?" Nichole asks as i lean against the island in the kitchen.
"At the party." i lie and grimace. When did it become so easy to lie to them?
"That must be a boring party if i can't hear any music." Sean comments and i roll my eyes.
"I'm in the bathroom." i lie again.
"Oh, be careful!" they both say before we end the call.
"Some party, huh?" a voice asks, and i scream in surprise, turning on my heel to glare at Mr.Castello. He chuckles, leaning against the entrance way.
"I can't very well tell them I'm at my teachers house."
"True, did you bring any extra clothes?" he comments as he walks over to the fridge.
"Crap."
"I'm guessing that's a no?" he asks, looking up from the inside of the fridge.
"I didn't think I'd be staying here."
"You can borrow something of mine." he replies simply, "What do you want to drink?"
"Water please." he looks at me questioningly, "I'm not allowed to have caffeine."
"Why not? Get too hyper?" he asks with a smirk and i roll my eyes.
"I wouldn't know, I've never had any. My parent's are health freaks."
"Wow. Now you're going to break another rule, and have a root beer." he says and my eyes widen.
"You're allowing me to have beer?"
"Not beer, Libby. Root beer." he says with an amused smile.
"Oh. Shut up, i didn't know." he holds his hands up in defense and i take one of the bottles from his hand and twist off the lid. I look down the hole, and my eyes narrow at the brown liquid.
"Gonna drink it, or just stare at it?" he asks amused. I roll my eyes and bring the bottle to my lips, then tip it. The cold liquid rushes down my throat, and i begin to cough uncontrollably. "You alright?" he pats me on the back, still looking amused.
"What the hell was that fuzziness?"
"Carbonation." he replies simply, taking a drink from his own bottle, "Did you like it though? I mean, of what you tasted and didn't choke on?"
"Yeah, it's really good." i take another drink of the soda and feel a smile grace my lips. Someone begins knocking on the door, and Mr.Castello hands me the drinks before walking over to the door. I hand Chase his drink, and set Mr.Castello's on the table. Mr.Castello returns to the living room with three boxes in hand, and sets them onto the table.
"If your parent's are health freaks, how have you had pizza?" he comments taking a seat on the couch.
"School, the mall, hanging out with friends." he nods and opens the first box. Cheese. I grab a napkin and pick up a small slice. I take a small bite, aware that it's extremely hot, and that the two men are staring at me. "What?"
"Nothing." they both reply and Chase takes a large bite of the pizza. Isn't that hot? Confirming my suspicions, his eyes begin to water and he takes a large drink of his root beer. I smirk at him and catch Mr.Castello giving him an amused look.
"I forgot it was hot, okay?" Chase defends and i short bubble of laughter escapes my lips, "You have a cute laugh." i choke on a piece of my pizza and glare at him, before swallowing.
"I what?"
"You have a cute laugh." he says, looking amused, "I'm guessing nobody's ever said that before?"
"No, my friend Sean always scares off any guy that tries to talk to me."
"Maybe he likes you." Chase comments and i scoff.
"No, he's my best friend."
"So?" both guys chorus and my eyes flicker over to Mr.Castello's.
"She's naive." Mr.Castello states and i roll my eyes.
"I think it's cute." Chase comments, winking at me. I look down at the pizza in my hands, willing myself not to blush. "Awe! She blushed."
"Shut up." i mumble and take a bite of my pizza.
"What movie did you choose?" Mr.Castello asks, changing the subject.
| | | |
"I'm going to get going." a voice whispers, breaking me from my sleep.
"Okay, see you." another voice whispers, i recognize it as Mr.Castello's.
"Why are you whispering?"
"We thought you were asleep." Mr.Castello says and i hear both of them chuckle. My eyes flutter open, and i see both of them in front of me, staring at me.
"I was, now stop staring at me."
"Yes ma'am." Chase says, mock saluting me, "Nice meeting you Libby. Maybe I'll see you around?"
"Nice meeting you too, and yeah."
"Bye guys." he says and walks out of the apartment.
"Come on, I'll get you some clothes to change into." Mr.Castello says and pulls me to my feet. I groggily follow him into a room, and realize it's his room. He walks over to a black dresser, and pulls open the second drawer. "Here." he says, and tosses me a black shirt and a pair of white basketball shorts.
"Thanks. Where's the bathroom?"
"Right there." he says and points to a door in his room. I walk into the room, and shut the door behind me. Stripping of the dress i was previously in, i pull on the comfortable clothes, and tie the shirt up on the side since it's really big on me. I step out of the bathroom, just as Mr.Castello pulls off his shirt. I freeze on the spot and my eyes drop to his perfectly toned chest.
"Uh.." i say awkwardly and he spins around in surprise.
"You'll be sleeping in my bed, and i will be taking the couch." he says and i shake my head.
"No, it's your apartment, i can sleep on the couch."
"You're the guest, so you sleep in the bed." he says with a wink before walking out of the room. I sigh, and shut off the light, then walk over to the bed and pull the covers back. Cautiously lowering myself onto the bed, i get a whiff of Mr.Castello's cologne. Immediately getting comfy, i soon find myself drifting off to sleep.
Chapter Six
My eyes slowly flutter open, and the smell of cinnamon takes over my senses. I take my in surroundings, and feel my heart rate pick up. Where am i? Thinking back to the last things i remember, i realize I'm in Mr.Castello's room. Blushing, i push myself to my feet, and walk out of the room.
The couch is covered in messed up blankets, telling me Mr.Castello was once there. Where is he now? The scent of cinnamon hits me again, and i make my way to the kitchen. Leaning against the entrance way, i watch as Mr.Castello works, his back to me. What is he making? It smells so good. Deciding to make myself known, i clear my throat, and step into the kitchen. Mr.Castello whirls around and smiles.
"Good morning." he says and turns back to whatever he's making.
"Morning. What smells so good?"
"Cinnamon pie." he says simply, and i remember Chase telling me about Mr.Castello making the best cinnamon pie. I take a seat at the island and continue to watch him.
"Is it as good as Chase says it is?"
"Try it and find out." he says cockily, and places a plate in front of me. Just the smell of it made me realize every praise is beyond true. Picking up the fork off of the plate, and cut into the pie and get some on my fork. I lift the fork to my mouth, and notice Mr.Castello watching me.
"What?"
"Try it." he chuckles and i blush.
"Don't watch me."
"I want to see your reaction." he says with a wink. I open my mouth and slide the fork in, taking the piece off of the fork. Oh my gosh. My eyes widen as i chew and swallow. "Hmm??"
"Wow, that is amazing."
"Knew it." he smirks and takes a bite out of his own piece, letting out a low moan. We continue to eat in silence, and i begin to hear my ring tone going off somewhere.
"Excuse me." i stand up and exit the kitchen, in search of my phone. Finally locating it on the coffee table, i blush at my lock screen wallpaper. I unlock it and almost laugh at my new wallpaper. Instead of Nichole and I at last years winter dance, it's now a picture of Mr.Castello making a funny face. I crack a smile before frowning. How did he know my pass code? Shaking my head, i search my missed calls.
My parent's.
Oh shit! I haven't told them where i am. They are going to kill me. Especially since I'm skipping school! Dialing my dad's cell, i wait for him to pick up.
"Libby Rochelle Angel. You have a lot of explaining to do." his stern voice answers.
"I know! I was hanging out with Nichole and Sean last night, and i got sick, so Sean called me off from school. I'm sorry i didn't call, i just now started feeling better." wow, I'm way too good at lying. That's terrible.
"Oh honey, feel better! I'll see you later. Me and Lacey are leaving tonight." he says and we hang up. Sending Nichole and Sean a quick text explaining everything and the lie, i toss my phone back onto the table and return to the kitchen.
"You should really quit lying." Mr.Castello comments, taking a bite of his pie.
"I know, I've never lied in my whole life. I'd feel too guilty, but now it's like i don't know how to tell the truth."
"Except to me." he retorts and i narrow my eyes.
"What are you talking about?"
"You can't lie to me." he says with a shrug of his shoulders.
"You don't know that. I could have lied to you before."
"You're lying." he retorts and i scowl.
"How do you know?"
"Cause you're easy to read." he says simply and i narrow my eyes at him.
"I am not."
"Really? Why wouldn't you tell me your dress size yesterday?" he asks with a smirk.
"B-because it's embarrassing?"
"Great, now tell me the real reason." he says with a wink.
"I..I didn't know if you would think i was too skinny or too big.."
"Size doesn't matter." he says simply, making me more curious as to what he thought. His phone begins to ring and he scowls at whoever it is. "Be right back." he walks out of the kitchen and i decide to look around a bit. Standing up, i walk over to the fridge and look at all the pictures on there.
One of a little boy, standing with a man and a woman, possibly him and his parent's? Another one of the little boy, the parent's, and a dog by the little boys feet. The smile on Mr.Castello's face in the picture brings a smile to my own face. He was so happy then. I wonder what happened to make him be like he is now.
"Those are my parent's." he says and i jump, making him chuckle, "Scare ya?"
"Just a little. So, your parents?"
"Yeah, they were the best people to know." he says, and i realize he said 'were' not 'are'.
"Were?"
"My mom died the same year that picture was taken, i was nine, and then my dad overdosed by the time i was thirteen." he explains and i gasp, covering my mouth with my hand.
"That's so sad."
"Usually when i tell people that they pity me." he says and i turn to look at him.
"Saying I'm sorry won't bring them back." i whisper, surprising myself by the softness of my tone.
"You and Chase are the only one's who get that. Other than my Aunt Jill. She was like a second mom to me. Especially when my parent's were gone." he explains and i try to discretely wipe away a tear. It's not often a strong guy like Mr.Castello tells you about what he's gone through.
"I should probably get home."
"Where your parent's think you're sick?" he asks, looking from the picture to me.
"I-um.. what am i supposed to do then?"
"You can go grocery shopping with me." he says with a shrug of his shoulders.
"Okay.. but i don't have any extra clothes."
"You just have a reason for everything, don't you?" he retorts and i blush.
"Not purposely."
"Which floor is your room on?" he asks walking out of the kitchen. I follow him out and into the living room.
"The second. Why?"
"Do you have a balcony or anything?" i narrow my eyes at him.
"Yes. Why?"
"I know how you're going to get more clothes. I'll tell you after I've showered and changed." he says and leaves the room, leaving me staring after him dumbfounded. Why can't he just tell me? Rolling my eyes, i sit on the couch and close my eyes, resting my head on the back of the couch.
Something begins to drip on my face, and i crack my right eye open, only to see Mr.Castello right in my face, his hair dripping onto me. A startle scream escapes my lips, and i jolt up, knocking heads with him. He begins to bust out laughing while holding his forehead.
"You asshole! I hope you get a knot on your head"
"It'd be totally worth it." he says still chuckling.
"Anyways... what was your genius idea?"
"Oh yeah," he starts, running a hand through his wet hair.
| | | |
"I cannot believe you talked me into this!" i say in a harsh whisper.
"I can be pretty convincing when i want to be." he retorts, pushing me up higher. Right now, i am standing on Mr.Castello's shoulders, trying to reach my balcony, so i can climb onto it and into my room.
"I hate you." suddenly, i feel myself falling and quickly grab onto the railing to my balcony, looking down to glare at Mr.Castello who let go of me. "What was that for?!"
"You said you hate me, so why should i help you?" he comments with a smug smirk.
"I'm sorry! Just help me."
"What's the words I'm looking for? Oh yeah, Ryan Castello is extremely handsome and the best fake boyfriend in the entire world." he says and i scoff.
"I am not saying that!"
"Then i am not helping you." he says simply and i let out a frustrated groan as i try my hardest to hold onto the railing.
"Fine! Ryan Castello is extremely handsome and the best fake boyfriend in the world." i say through gritted teeth, and he smirks in triumph. "Now help me, you ass." he chuckles and pushes me up higher. I swing my legs over the railing, and pull my keys out of my pocket, then unlock my balcony doors. Stepping into my room, i quietly sprint over to my closet, and quickly change into a pair of shorts, a white tank, and a lime green crop top with gladiator sandals. Tossing my hair into a messy bun, i hurry back over to the balcony and lock the doors once I'm out. Looking over the balcony, i see Mr.Castello leaning against the tree, looking like a freaking model or something.
"Mr.Castello!" i whisper and his head snaps up towards me.
"Done?" he asks, strolling towards the balcony.
"Yes, now how do i get down, genius?"
"I didn't think that far ahead.." he starts and i glare at him, "just.. jump. I'll catch you."
"What?! I am not jumping." i whisper harshly and i see him roll his eyes.
"Just do it." he says and i sigh, giving in. Swinging my legs over the railing, i look down at him to see him holding his arms out. "Ready?"
"Ready." he calls to me and i close my eyes, letting myself fall. His strong arms catch me with ease, and i instantly wrap my arms around his neck. "Told you I'd catch you." realizing what i was doing, i quickly let go of him and land on my feet.
"Let's go?" he nods and we begin to walk back to his car that he parked a little ways down the street so my parent's didn't get suspicious. He thought of everything except a way for me to get down. I bet he did that on purpose.
| | | |
I stare out the car window, watching everything turn to a blur as we pass by it. The whole ride has been silent, and it's killing me. Should i speak first? Noticing we just past the supermarket, i look over at Mr.Castello in confusion.
"Why did you pass the supermarket?"
"We're going a few towns over." he replies simply, and i narrow my eyes at him.
"Why?"
"Because if someone caught us shopping together, rumors would spread." he responds and i nod, then look at him again.
"Everyone is in school. I doubt anyone we knew would see us."
"Just being cautious." he says and takes a glance at me. I nod and look back out the window.
"What town are we going to?"
"Greens-burg." he replies and i think of how far that is from Columbus.
"That's like a half hour away, right?"
"Yep. By the way," he starts and pulls the glove compartment open, "I got you a drivers manual." he hands me the crisp, never been open manual, and i look at it in awe.
"Thank you."
"No problem. Study that, and then I'll take you to do your permit test." he says and i nod, "When do you turn eighteen?"
"October sixth."
"You will probably have your license by then." he comments and i look at him confused.
"I thought i had to wait like six months?"
"It's changed. Now you only need fifty hours in. Forty during the day, and ten at night." he explains and i nod.
"That's awesome." he chuckles at my excitement and glances at me. I open up the drivers manual, and let my eyes run over the words. "Are you sure you want to teach me to drive?"
"I was in a gang, where i did drag racing, I'm not afraid to teach a seventeen year old girl how to drive." he comments and i roll my eyes.
"I forgot about the gang thing."
"That's a good thing." he says and i look back at the manual. "We're here." i look out the window to see us pulling into the Greens-burg Walmart. He pulls into a parking space, and we get out of the car. I stuff my hands into back shorts pockets, and follow behind Mr.Castello, into the store.
"Why are we here again?"
"To get food? What else would you go to s grocery store for?" Mr.Castello asks, looking amused.
"Shut up. I meant why am i here?"
"Because you have nowhere else to go." he says simply, "Now, what do you want for lunch?"
"I don't know, what do you want?"
"Have you ever had bbq wings?" he asks, grabbing a shopping cart as we enter the store.
"Nope."
"Never?" he asks, looking surprised.
"Never."
"Then we are having bbq wings." he decides and heads down an aisle. I go to follow him, but someone grabs my arm. I swing around in shock and let out a startled gasp.
"Chase! You scared me."
He chuckles and lets go of my arm, "That was the purpose."
"Anyways, what are you doing here?"
"What most people do at a grocery store?" he says looking amused.
"You know, you and Mr.Castello are so much alike."
"Is he here too?" he asks looking around.
"Well, considering i can't drive, and i stayed at his house... Yeah, he's here."
"Sarcasm isn't nice." he retorts, then his eyes light up. I turn my head to see Mr.Castello pushing the cart towards us. Chase jumps up and down then runs over to Mr.Castello and tackles him into a hug.
"Get the hell off of me!" Mr.Castello exclaims and shoves Chase off of him.
"Ryan! I'm so happy to see you!" Chase chirps and i laugh.
"Why are you here?" Mr.Castello demands, and his eyes land on me.
"Apparently, other people go grocery shopping here."
"She's feisty, i like it." Chase comments, smirking at me. I blush and look away, "Awe! I made her blush again."
"Shut up, Chase." Mr.Castello demands and i narrow my eyes at him. Chase looks at him with big puppy dog eyes, and i can't help but 'awe'.
"Come here! You need a hug." Chase smirks at Mr.Castello before bounding over to me. I pull him into a hug and he lifts me off of my feet, spinning us in circles. I start to laugh and cling to him for dear life.
"Chase! Put her down." Mr.Castello demands and Chase rolls his eyes before setting me on my feet.
"She was laughing, not screaming. You should know the difference." Chase retorts, and my jaw drops, "She understood my dirty comment! I'm so proud." i look up to see Mr.Castello giving Chase a hard look that says 'I'm going to kill you'.
"Seriously, why are you here?" Mr.Castello asks, looking at a bottle of hot sauce.
"Training was let out early today, cause someone let off a flare." Chase says grinning sheepishly.
"Oh my God, it was you!"i exclaim and Mr.Castello busts out laughing, the sound echoing through out the building, "but training for what?"
"He's going to be a police officer." Mr.Castello answers, one of his eyes wide and one normal size.
"Seriously? In Indiana? That's it, i'm moving." Mr.Castello busts out laughing again, and i crack a smile.
"You're pretty amusing today." he comments and i laugh.
"Anyways," Chase starts, giving me a mock glare, "I will be the best damn police officer this side of Niagra Falls."
"Niagra Falls is in Michigan/Canada." Mr.Castello says and my eyes widen.
"We're doomed. Just kill us now." Mr.Castello chuckles and Chase sighs.
"Thanks for the support." he mumbles and starts to walk off. My jaw drops and i break out in a sprint after him. Jumping on his back, he stumbles forward a bit, before regaining his balance.
"I was kidding! I'm sorry. You'll be an amazing police officer." Chase begins to chuckle and i hop off of his back, "You slut! You tricked me!"
"Did you just call me a slut?" Chase asks the same time Mr.Castello asks, "Did you just call him a slut?"
"Yeah? Get over it."
"Definitely feisty." Chase comments and i roll my eyes.
"Ryan?" a familiar voice asks, and my eyes widen. In a flash, i'm pushed out of the aisle by Chase and he puts a finger to my lips, to keep me quiet.
"Your principle." he whispers and my jaw drops. I look to my left, and notice the entrance. Motioning to it, Chase nods, and i creep around the corner of the aisle, then take off in a sprint, slowing down just as i reach the exit. I step out of the store and jog to Mr.Castello's car, leaning against the side of it.
"Why did you leave?" a voice asks and my eyes snap open. I gasp and put a hand to my heart, glaring at Mr.Castello.
"I didn't want Mr.Pike to see me with you, he'd probably think we were doing something wrong."
"Right." he mumbles and i help him put the bags into the trunk of his car. We get in the car, and start on our way back home.
Fifteen minutes later, i notice the car behind us is way too close. Turning in my seat i try to see who it is, but the tinted windows leave me guessing. I turn back around, and pull down the visor, looking into the mirror to keep an eye on them.
"What are you doing?" Mr.Castello asks, and i motion to behind us. He glance in the rear view mirror and curses.
"What?"
"Carson's followers." he grumbles and we start to speed up.
"What? Why are they following us?"
"They're pissed i left, and now they want their revenge." he states simply and i gulp. Suddenly the car behind us hits our tail end, making us swerve. Mr.Castello quickly straightens us up, and begins to speed even more.
"Is this going to be like a drag race?"
"In some ways, but in the end, someone will get hurt. Always happens." he says, pressing down on the gas. We go flying forwards, and i just miss the dashboard. Glaring at Mr.Castello, i hold onto my seat and hope it all ends soon. The car pulls up beside us, and all of a sudden the windows busts. The sound of gun shots makes me scream. "Get down!"
I quickly rip off my seat belt and crouch down under the dashboard. Mr.Castello speeds up even more, even though i didn't think it was possible, and the gun shots continue. I hear him groan and i look up to see he was shot in the arm.
"Mr.Castello!"
"I'm fine, stay down." he commands and i peek up to see the car getting closer.
"Mr.Castello! Watch out!"
The car crashes into us, sending us flying off the road.
Impressum
Texte: Taylor Hamner
Bildmaterialien: Taylor Hamner
Lektorat: Taylor hamner
Tag der Veröffentlichung: 30.09.2012
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