Crush(ed)

Chapter 4: A Nice Boy

The following day was a crisp Friday morning, and Emma had made a decision. She didn't want to see Alex for a while, at least not on this particular day. Her emotions were still raw from what had transpired, and she needed some time to collect herself and regain her self-respect.

The night before, in the midst of her tears and frustration, Emma had texted Adrian, who had a car, asking if he could pick her up for school. He agreed without hesitation, understanding that Emma needed a break from her usual routine. The weekend was around the corner, which meant they wouldn't have to see each other at school until Monday.

Adrian arrived at Emma's house earlier than expected, his friendly driver opening the car door for her. It was a welcome change from the usual routine, and for a brief moment, Emma could forget about Alex's piercing brown eyes and hurtful words.

As they drove to school, Emma and Adrian found themselves immersed in a conversation about their favorite book, "The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak. Emma was particularly fond of the characters Rudy and Mama, and she shared her thoughts with Adrian.

"I love Rudy too," Adrian said with a warm smile. "But Mama, she's something special, isn't she? Her strength and kindness shine through.....even though she cusses alot."

Emma nodded in agreement. "Exactly! I've never connected with a character like I did with her. Words can truly be powerful, don't you think?"

Adrian's eyes lit up, and he shared her enthusiasm for the written word. They discussed poignant literature and contemporary authors, even venturing into the realm of music. Emma was surprised at how effortlessly the conversation flowed, how Adrian seemed genuinely interested in what she had to say.

It was during their discussion about Taylor Swift, Emma's favorite singer, that she almost forgot they were on their way to school. The familiar sight of the school building brought her back to reality, but this time, she felt a sense of peace rather than anxiety.

However, as they entered the school premises, Emma couldn't help but notice Alex and Gemma engaged in conversation. The sight of them together, laughing and talking, stirred a mixture of bitterness and longing within her. She could almost hear Alex's judgmental voice in her mind, calling her "desperate Emma" over and over again.

Adrian's voice broke her out of her thoughts. "You okay?" he asked, genuine concern in his eyes.

Emma forced a smile and nodded. "Yeah, yeah, what could be wrong with me?" But she couldn't shake off the nagging feeling that everything had changed, that her dynamic with Alex might never be the same.

As they entered their shared classroom, Adrian leaned closer and asked, "What are you doing this weekend, Emma?"

Emma shrugged, keeping her gaze focused on her books. "Nothing, why?"

Adrian's eyes twinkled with excitement. "Wanna go watch 'The Hunger Games'?"

Emma hesitated for a moment. She had originally planned to watch the movie with Gemma and Alex, but something in her yearned for a change. "Only if you drop me home afterward," she finally replied, a playful grin on her face.

Adrian chuckled. "Of course, m'lady." The endearing term caught Emma off guard. Nobody had spoken to her that way before. It was always about Alex or Gemma or some boy who was mildly interested but never open about it in front of others.

She found herself grateful for Adrian's company. He had a kindness that seemed rare, especially in high school. Emma couldn't help but wonder why Alex didn't like him. Adrian was a sweet and friendly boy, and Alex's friends seemed like the dipshits in comparison.

Their classes passed by, and Emma focused on her studies, determined to keep Alex out of her mind. Maybe it was time to let go of the crush. It might be difficult, but it was worth a shot.

At lunchtime, Gemma joined them and tried to mediate, bringing Emma to sit with Alex. Both Emma and Alex were still hesitant to engage in conversation, but Gemma was persistent.

"Hey," Emma said casually as she settled down with her chicken sandwich, a water bottle in hand. "So, you're talking to me now?" Alex responded sarcastically. "Thought you were too busy with your new best friend."

Alex's possessiveness was something Emma had grown used to over the years, but it often left her feeling confused. Was he genuinely upset, or was he just being his usual overbearing self? She rolled her eyes, not wanting to engage in an argument.

"Sorry, guess I'm too boy-obsessed for normal people," Emma retorted, her bitterness evident.

Emma's response caught Alex by surprise and he tried to search her face to understand what she meant for a minute. "Oh, come on, you two, make up already. It's tough for me," Gemma whined, trying to mend the rift between her sister and her best friend.

Both Emma and Alex shook their heads, laughing slightly at Gemma's attempt to lighten the mood. The tension seemed to ease, if only for a moment.

"You know what would be great?" Alex said, trying to change the topic. "Watching a movie."

Emma felt a wave of anxiety wash over her. "Hunger Games?" Alex's question made her shake her head, afraid of how they would react.

"Maybe you guys should go," she suggested. "I've already made plans to watch it with Adrian."

Now both Gemma and Alex were staring at her, their expressions a mixture of surprise and curiosity. "Alone?" Gemma asked, while Alex questioned, "Like a date?"

Emma hesitated, unsure of how to define her plans with Adrian. "Um, maybe," she finally replied, her voice laced with uncertainty. She didn't want to admit it was a date, even if it felt like one.

"Is he a good guy?" Gemma inquired, her curiosity piqued.

Alex remained silent, his gaze locked on Emma. She avoided looking at him, not wanting to feel like she was betraying him.

"Actually, he's a very nice person," Emma admitted. "You guys would love him."

After a long pause, Gemma smiled. "My baby is growing up."

Emma playfully smacked her sister. "You are literally one minute older than me, you absolute twat."

"Oh, hush," Gemma responded, brushing off the teasing. Alex, on the other hand, stayed quiet for the rest of lunch, or at least, he didn't directly engage with Emma. Usually, Emma would push the subject, but this time, she chose to let it go.

She returned to her class after lunch and continued talking to Adrian about their plans. They would watch "The Hunger Games" on Saturday and visit the arcade afterward. Emma was looking forward to it, grateful for the distraction from her complicated feelings for Alex.

For the rest of the day, she hung out with Adrian, their easygoing friendship helping her forget about the turmoil of the past few days. The prospect of spending time with him over the weekend made her feel excited and hopeful.

As the final bell rang, Adrian dropped her off at her house, as promised. Emma thanked him and went inside to find her Mama. She greeted her warmly, kissing her on the cheek.

Mama's eyes twinkled with knowing amusement. "Who was that, baby girl?" she asked, her tone affectionate.

Emma grinned and responded, "Oh, just a boy. A nice boy." Mama had known about Emma's crush on Alex for years, and her motherly instincts were keen. She had seen her daughter shed too many tears over a boy who didn't reciprocate her feelings.

Mama seemed pleased with Emma's response. "That's nice for you," she commented before returning to her own tasks.

Emma's heart swelled with happiness due to her mother's nature.

She bounced her way to her room, where her diary awaited. As she wrote in it that night, she couldn't help but feel that maybe, just maybe, things were finally looking up for her.