CHAPTER 2
TANGLED EMOTIONS
Bella sat in her art class, scribbling notes as the teacher lectured. Her phone buzzed in her pocket, and she discreetly pulled it out to see her mom's name flashing on the screen. She knew she had to take the call, but she couldn't do it in class.
Bella quickly got up from her seat and whispered to the teacher, "Excuse me, I need to take this call." The teacher nodded, and Bella slipped out of the classroom.
She hurried down the hallway, searching for a quiet spot to take the call. She spotted an empty classroom and ducked inside, closing the door behind her.
"Hey, Mom," Bella said, trying to sound calm.
"Bella, why haven't you been picking up my calls?" her mom asked, her voice tinged with concern and a hint of frustration.
Bella sighed, feeling a pang of guilt. "I'm sorry, Mom. I've just been really busy lately."
"I've been trying to reach you for days, Bella. I was starting to get worried," her mom said, her voice softening.
Bella apologized again, feeling bad for not being more responsive.
But then her mom dropped a bombshell. "Becky told me you got a job. Why didn't you tell me, Isabella?"
Bella's eyes widened as she realized her mom knew about her new job. She hadn't meant to keep it a secret, but she had been putting off telling her mom, knowing she would worry.
"Mom, I...I was going to tell you," Bella stammered.
"Why didn't you tell me, Bella?" her mom repeated, her voice rising in concern. "I'm your mother. I have a right to know what's going on in your life."
Bella felt a surge of guilt and regret. She knew her mom was worried about her balancing work and school.
"Mom, I'm sorry. I know I should have told you. It's just...I didn't want you to worry," Bella said, trying to explain.
But her mom was already worried. "Bella, how are you going to balance work and school? You know you can't neglect your studies. I told you I will take care of everything. What if this job takes up too much of your time?"
Bella sighed, feeling a headache coming on. She knew her mom wouldn't let this go so easily.
"Mom, I promise I'll be fine. I'll make sure to prioritize my schoolwork. The job isn't taking up too much of my time, I swear," Bella said, trying to reassure her mom.
"I hope so, Bella. I really do. You know I just want what's best for you," her mom said, her voice softening.
Bella felt a pang of love and appreciation for her mom. She knew her mom was only worried because she cared.
"I know, Mom. Thank you for caring. I'll try to do better about keeping you updated," Bella said, feeling apologetic.
"Okay, sweetie. Just be careful and don't skip my calls again, okay?" her mom said.
"Okay, Mom. I will. I love you," Bella said.
"I love you too, Bella. Bye, sweetie."
After class, Bella and Becky decided to check out the school clubs. They walked to the athletic department, where Bella was interested in joining the swim team. Becky, on the other hand, was drawn to the music club.
"I'll catch up with you later, Bella," Becky said, waving goodbye as she headed towards the music room.
Bella nodded and smiled, then walked into the pool area. Coach Madley, a tall, athletic woman with a warm smile, greeted her.
"Hello there! Welcome to the swim team. I'm Coach Madley," she said, extending her hand.
Bella shook her hand, feeling a bit nervous. "Hi, Coach. I'm Bella."
Coach Madley nodded. "Great to meet you, Bella. Why don't you introduce yourself to the rest of the team?"
Bella took a deep breath and introduced herself to the team. The other swimmers welcomed her warmly, and Coach Madley handed her a team vest.
"Alright, let's get started! We've got a lot of work to do before the next rehearsal," Coach Madley said, blowing her whistle.
Meanwhile, Becky walked into the music room, scanning the room nervously. Her eyes landed on Victoria, the school bully, who was sitting at the piano, looking smug.
Becky felt a surge of anxiety and considered leaving. But then Mr. Matthew, the music teacher, called out to her.
"Becky! Welcome to the music club. I'm Mr. Matthew."
Becky smiled shyly and introduced herself to the team. Mr. Matthew showed her to the piano, and they began to practice.
As they practiced, Becky found herself feeling more and more comfortable. She was even given the lead role in one of the songs, and she felt a surge of excitement and pride.
But just as they were about to take a break, Mr. Matthew left the room, and Victoria walked towards Becky, a sneer on her face.
"Sorry, Becky, but I think I'll take over the lead role from now on," Victoria said, pushing Becky away from the piano.
Becky felt a pang of disappointment and embarrassment. But before she could react, a girl with long, dark hair and a warm smile walked up to her.
"Hey, I'm Prieya. Don't mind Victoria, she's always like that," Prieya said, rolling her eyes.
Becky smiled weakly, feeling a bit better. "Thanks, Prieya, I'm Becky."
Prieya nodded. "Welcome to the music club, Becky. So what is your voice type.? I use soprano. She said as she showed her other instruments in the club.
Bella was changing in the locker room after practice, her hair tied up in a ponytail and her swimsuit still clinging to her skin. She was lost in thought, replaying the practice in her mind, when a familiar voice spoke beside her.
"I didn't know you joined the swimming team," the voice said.
Bella was startled and turned to see who was speaking to her. Her eyes widened in surprise as she saw Dani standing beside her, the last person she wanted to see. A towel wrapped around her waist and a mischievous glint in her eye.
"Dani!" Bella exclaimed, trying to compose herself. "What are you doing here?"
Dani smiled, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "I'm the captain of the swim team muffin. I came to practice."
Bella's eyes widened in surprise, and she felt a flutter in her chest. She hadn't known that Dani was on the team, let alone the captain.
"No way!" Bella exclaimed, laughing. "I had no idea."
Dani chuckled, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "Yeah, I'm a girl of many talents," she said as she asked Bella to join her
Bella shook her head, smiling. "No thanks, Dani. I'm actually about to head to work."
But Dani was persistent. "Come on, it'll just be 5 minutes! You can't resist the water can you?"
Bella laughed, feeling her resolve weakening. "Okay, fine. But just for 5 minutes!"
Dani grinned triumphantly and grabbed Bella's hand, pulling her towards the pool. "That's the spirit!"
Before Bella knew it, Dani had dragged her into the pool, and they were splashing around in the water. Dani helped Bella float on her back, and they both laughed as they bobbed up and down.
As they swam, Dani teased Bella about her swimming skills. "You've got a long way to go Bella! But I'm happy to teach you."
Bella playfully splashed water at Dani, laughing. "Hey, watch it! I'm a natural."
After their 5-minute swim, Dani and Bella climbed out of the pool, grinning at each other.
As they left the premises together, Dani offered to drive her to work. "Hop in, I'll give you a ride."
Bella smiled, feeling grateful for the ride. "Thanks, Dani. You're a lifesaver."
As they drove to Bella's workplace, They chatted, Bella couldn't help but notice the way Dani's eyes sparkled when she smiled, or the way her hair curled slightly at the nape of her neck. She felt a sense of attraction that she couldn't ignore, and she wondered if being on the same team as Dani was a great idea.
Thursday morning dawned bright and sunny, and both Bella and Becky walked into school with a radiant smile on their face. They had always loved Thursdays for some reason, and today was no exception.
As they walked down the hallway, a student walked up to Bella, looking at her watch. "You're late," the student said, smiling.
Bella chuckled. "I know, I'm sorry. I had to stop by the post office on my way here to pick up a package."
The student nodded understandingly. "No worries, I'm Anna," she said, extending her hand.
Bella shook Anna's hand, smiling. "I'm Bella, nice to meet you."
Anna smiled back, her eyes sparkling with friendliness. "I would love to be your friend Bella. You seem really cool."
Bella's smile widened, feeling happy to have made a new friend. "That would be great Anna. I could always use a friend."
Anna grinned, and the two of them walked off together, chatting and laughing as they went to their next class.
Immediately Professor Eva strode into the room, confidence radiating from her poised demeanor. Her bright smile commanded attention.
"Good morning, class! I have exciting announcements."
The room fell silent.
"Firstly, our school quiz competition is approaching, scheduled for the end of the month. You'll be paired with Class B, led by Professor Matthew."
Bella's eyes met Becky's across the room, surprise flickering.
"Secondly, your class assignment: create an artistic representation of a social issue. You'll work in groups of three."
Professor Ava distributed handouts outlining the project.
"Groups will be: Anna, Bella, Dani; Alex, Mike, Emily; and Victoria, Stephen, Zrina."
Bella's gaze locked onto Dani, unexpected tension sparking.
"Your artwork is due by Friday. Please Be creative!" Professor Ava encouraged them.
As the class began working, Anna leaned in.
"Bella! Any Ideas?"
Bella's mind whirled.
"Let's tackle climate change," Dani suggested.
Anna nodded.
"Love it!"
The bell rang, signaling the end of class.
"See you all Wednesday!" Professor Ava called out.
Suddenly, the students were rushing out of the room, chattering excitedly. Bella turned to Anna, confused. "What's going on?" she asked.
Anna grinned mischievously. As she said in a whisper "There's a lacrosse match going on at the field! And guess what? The school's most charming boys are playing against each other - Zack and Alec are on opposing teams!"
Bella's eyes widened as she remembered Zack inviting her to the match. She had completely forgotten! "I was invited to this," she said to Anna, feeling a thrill of excitement.
Bella and Anna packed their bags and hurried to the field, excitement building up inside them. As they reached the field, they spotted Becky already seated on the bleachers, cheering enthusiastically. Bella waved at Becky and sat down beside her.
The atmosphere was electric, with everyone screaming and cheering excitedly. The air was filled with chants of "Go ZACK! Go ALEC!" as the two teams clashed on the field. Bella's eyes scanned the field, searching for Zack, and her heart raced in excitement when she spotted him,
His eyes fixed so intensely on the ball, his jaw set in determination. His hair, messy and tousled, bounced with each step as he ran down the field.
Despite the sweat dripping from his brow, Zack looked incredibly charming. His rugged, athletic build was evident even under his lacrosse gear, and the way his muscles flexed as he moved was mesmerizing. Bella found herself staring, her eyes drawn to the way his sweat-soaked jersey clung so tight to his chest.
She couldn't believe how good he looked, even when he was sweaty and dirty from playing. There was something about him that was just so captivating, so charming. Bella felt her heart fluttering in her chest as she watched him play, and she knew she was in trouble.
The match was intense, with both teams fighting hard for every goal. But despite their best efforts, the McGill lacrosse team was, trailing behind, stuck in last position. The coach finally decided to swap the boys, and to everyone's surprise, they started to make a comeback.
The cheerleaders, dressed in their bright uniforms, were cheering and dancing enthusiastically, urging the team on. Becky and Bella found themselves caught up in the excitement, cheering and clapping along with the rest.
As the match progressed, Bella caught Zack's eye on several occasions, and he flashed her a brief smile before refocusing on the game. Bella's heart fluttered at the sight, and she felt a rush of excitement.
But just as it seemed like the McGills were about to pull off a stunning comeback, disaster struck. Zack collided with an opposing player and fell to the ground, clutching his ankle in pain. The opposing team seized the opportunity, scoring a goal and taking the lead 7-6.
The crowd gasped in shock, and Bella's heart sank as she watched Zack being helped off the field, his face twisted in pain.
After a rough match, everyone was upset wishing for a better match next time.
The girls gathered their belongings, Anna suggested, "We should meet up soon to brainstorm about the project."
Dani nodded. "My place is the closest. Let's meet there Friday afternoon."
Bella agreed, but her mind was still worrying about Zack's injury.
Back in Nigeria, Anderson had come to visit Naomi, bearing gifts. Naomi smiled graciously, saying the gifts weren't necessary, but Anderson insisted she take them. They spent some time together, chatting and laughing before Anderson bid her farewell and left.
As soon as he was gone, Naomi's friend Malissa turned to her with a sly grin. "Naomi, Anderson is totally into you," she said. "You should give him a chance."
Naomi smiled, shaking her head in disagreement saying she wasn't ready for any type of commitment right now.
Malissa nodded understandingly, and they both smiled.
Meanwhile, back in Bella's room, she scrolled through her phone, mesmerized by Dani's pictures on Instagram. She accidentally liked one of the pictures and tried to delete it, but it wasn't working for some reason.
Just then, a message popped up on her WhatsApp. It was Zack. Bella's eyes widened in surprise as she asked him how he got her number.
Zack replied, "You work in my father's company remember?" They both laughed.
Bella asked about his injury, and Zack reassured her it was just a minor sprain in his ankle. "I'll be better soon," he said.
Then, he told her to meet him at their secret spot tomorrow after lunch. Bella's heart fluttered at the prospect of seeing him again.
Their chat lasted for hours, with them talking about everything and nothing. Finally, they both dozed off, exhausted but happy.
The sun was just starting to rise as Anna, Dani, Becky, and Bella set out on their morning jog. Anna, wearing her bright blue jogging suit and matching glasses perched on the end of her nose, was bubbling with energy and enthusiasm.
"Okay girls, let's do this!" Anna exclaimed, bouncing up and down like a rubber ball. "I've got my favorite blue water bottle, my blue sneakers, and my blue hair tie. I'm feeling totally blue and ready to rock this jog!"
Dani, who was jogging beside Anna, shot her a wry glance. "You're so dramatic," she teased, her voice firm but amused.
Anna grinned, her glasses slipping down her nose. "Hey, someone's got to bring the excitement to this jog!" She high-fived Becky and Bella, who were both laughing at her antics.
As they jogged, Dani took the lead, her strong legs eating up the distance. She was a force to be reckoned with, and the others struggled to keep up with her.
"Come on, slowpokes!" Dani called back over her shoulder, her voice firm but encouraging. "We're not going to let a little thing like exhaustion stop us, are we?"
Anna rolled her eyes good-naturedly. "Dani, you're such a taskmaster," she teased.
As they jogged, the group stopped on the railroad tracks to stretch and catch their breath. Anna, still bouncing with energy, grinned at her friends. "Guys, I have the best news! I'm having a karaoke party at my place tonight, and you're all invited!"
Becky and Bella squealed with excitement, while Dani just raised an eyebrow. But before they could respond, a group of joggers appeared out of nowhere, led by Victoria, the school bully. Who is best known for being mean-spirited?
Victoria and her group jogged right up to them, and without warning, kicked their water bottles out of their hands. "Losers!" Victoria sneered, as she and her friends jogged off, laughing.
Anna was caught off guard, lost her balance and fell to the ground. Her friends rushed to help her up, brushing her off and checking for injuries.
Dani's eyes flashed with anger, but she just gritted her teeth and turned to Anna. "Don't mind them, Anna. They're just jealous of your blue bottle she said trying to cheer her up."
Bella suddenly stopped mid-sentence.
"Oh no, I just remembered - I have plans with someone. I have to go. See you guys tonight!" she said as she ran off.
"Everything okay?" Becky asked.
Bella smiled hastily.
"Yeah, just a prior commitment. See you tonight, Annia's place."
With a quick goodbye, Bella rushed out of the premises. She hastened through the hallway, her heart beating so fast as she ran.
As she turned the corner, the courtyard came into view. Zack leaned against a pillar, his eyes scanning the area.
Their gazes met, and Zack's face lit up.
"Hey, sorry I'm late.," Bella said, slightly out of breath.
Zack chuckled.
"You're right on time."
They settled into their usual spot, surrounded by lush greenery.
Zack rummaged through his backpack and produced a small bag.
"I brought snacks," he said with a grin.
Bella's eyes widened as he revealed a package of strawberry-flavored shortbread cookies and a bottle of fresh lemonade.
"I love this. How do you know?" she asked, astonishment etched on her face.
Zack chuckled.
"I pay attention. You always like to get these at the cafeteria.
Bella's eyes sparkled. "You watch me eat?" "That, is creepy "
Zack nodded with a cute and harmless smile
"Just loved watching you laugh and eat that's all
As Bella took a bite of the cookie, the buttery flavor and sweetness flooded her senses.
"Mmm... this is good"
Bella laughed, feeling existed
Bella's gaze locked onto Zack's, her voice so low.
"Please be honest with me, I have been wanting to ask you this,"
Zack's expression turned serious.
"I'll always be honest with you bells."
"Do you have anything to do with me getting a job at your dad's company?
Zack's eyes darted for a split second before he replied.
"No, I don't."His voice trembling
Bella's eyes narrowed slightly. "Are you sure?"
Zack nodded. "Yeah Positive. Why do you ask".
Zack asked with curiosity in his voice
"Nothing really, just grateful. Your dad's company is one of the elite companies in the country. you don't just get a job there. So I am so grateful they employed me".
She said with a sincere smile on her face.
Zack's eyes sparkled. "Hey my dad's company is so grateful to have you, Bella."
Her gaze lifted. "Really?"
Zack nodded. "You're the most talented and deserving person I know. They're lucky to have you on board."
Bella's shoulders relaxed. "Thanks Zack. That means a lot coming from Zackary Ryan."
Zack's smile widened. "You're amazing bella."
Bella's cheeks flushed.
"Stop making me blush."
Zack chuckled.
"Can't help it. You're incredible."
As they walked, Zack pointed out vibrant street art, making Bella laugh.
Her worries began to fade.
"Thanks for the nice words, Zack."
Zack's expression softened.
"Anytime, Bella. He said as he drove her home.
Bella walked into the cozy apartment, dropping her bag beside the door. The aroma of sizzling vegetables and savory spices wafted from the kitchen, where Becky expertly stirred a simmering pot.
Bella snuck up behind Becky, wrapping her arms around her waist in a warm hug.
"Hey Beck what's the occasion" Bella whispered. As she saw so much food on the table.
Becky's eyes lit up as she turned, smiling. "Hey, Bella!"
"Come try my new recipe. She said as she handed over the spoon to her.
"Oh my god…. This is amazing, you still haven't answered my question. what's the….. As Bella could finish her sentence, the doorbell chimed. Naomi and Anderson are here, Bella said in surprise as she gave them a big hug.
Anderson's warm smile filled the room. "Girls! It's great to see you!"
Naomi hugged Bella tightly. "Sweetie, I missed you!"
They all settled to eat what Becky prepared. "So mum, what brings you here!" Bella asked.
Naomi smiled. "Anderson wanted to see how you girls were doing. So he got some of your favorite things.
.
Naomi's eyes crinkled at the corners as she smiled, her hands gently framing Bella's face.
"Sweetie, it's so great to see you," Naomi said, her voice filled with warmth.
As she gazed at her daughter, Naomi's expression turned discerning. Her thumbs tracing Bella's cheekbones, she noticed a subtle change.
"Bella, have you lost weight?" Naomi asked, concern creeping into her voice.
Bella shrugged, her cheeks flushing. "Maybe a little, Mom. I've just been busy."
Naomi's eyes narrowed. "I guess it must be the new environment and everything".
" You just have to eat a lot of protein and have enough sleep". Naomi said.
Bella nodded reassuringly.
"Yes, Mom I will".
The group settled into easy conversation, sharing stories and laughter.
For a brief moment, the strain between Bella and Becky faded into the background.
The next morning, Naomi woke up before dawn, eager to start the day. She quietly slipped out of the guest room, closing the door behind her. The apartment was still, except for the soft hum of the refrigerator in the kitchen.
Naomi began preparing breakfast, the sizzle of bacon and scrambled eggs filling the air. The aroma wafted through the apartment, enticing the others.
As she expertly flipped pancakes, the doorbell rang. Naomi wiped her hands on a towel, making her way to the entrance.
"Bella, you have a handsome visitor here to see you" Naomi called out.
Bella emerged from her room, rubbing sleep from her eyes.
"Morning, Mom."
Naomi smiled, opening the door to reveal Zack, Bella's classmate.
"Hi, Zack! Come on in."
Zack stepped inside, exchanging greetings with Bella.
"Hey, Bella! Ready for school?"
Naomi invited Zack to join them for breakfast, but He declined, citing a tight schedule.
As Bella grabbed her backpack, Naomi introduced Zack to Anderson, who was reading the newspaper in the living room.
"Anderson, this is Zack, Bella's friend from school."
Anderson looked up, smiling.
"Nice to meet you, Zack. How's school going?"
Zack replied, "It's going great, sir. Thanks for asking."
Becky, still sleepy, waved from the couch.
"Morning, Zack."
Bella hugged Naomi and Anderson.
"Love you, guys. See you after school."
With a final check of her backpack, Bella followed Zack out the door.
As the door closed, Naomi turned to Becky.
Who was still sleeping and eating at the same time?
"I like Zack, He seems sweet."
Becky nodded.
"Yeah, Bella's got some good friends in school".
Bella settled into the front seat of Zack's car, clicking her seatbelt into place.
"Thanks for the ride Zack," Bella said, her voice light and friendly.
Zack smiled, his eyes on the road. "No problem Bells".
"But you didn't tell me your mom was coming," he said, his voice tinged with curiosity.
Bella shrugged, her cheeks flushing. "It slipped my mind. And besides, I didn't know she was coming, not until we had the doorbell and it was her.
Zack smiled warmly. "Your mom is nice"
Bella's eyes sparkled. "Yeah, she is."
"I can see where you get your kindness from," Zack said, his gaze locked on hers.
Bella's cheeks flushed, her heart swelling with appreciation.
"I'm glad you two hit it off," Bella said.
Zack nodded, his smile still radiant. "Yeah, me too. She's amazing."
Their eyes held for a moment, the connection between them palpable.
"I just want to know you better. so I would like for you to accompany me somewhere after school." Zack said as they both smiled at each other.
After school, Bella gazed around the cemetery, puzzled. "Why are we here?"
Zack's eyes softened. "To see my mom." He laid flowers on her grave. "I come here alone when I'm sad.
" You're the first girl, apart from my sister Zoya, that I've brought here."
Bella's heart went out to him. "Hi," she whispered to his mom's memory.
As they sat on the grass, Zack smiled. "My mom loves sunflowers."
Bella nodded, spotting the flowers. "They're beautiful."
"Yes, they are beautiful just like you."
Zack said as his eyes locked onto hers.
Their hands touched, a gentle connection forming.
"Thanks for being here Bella," He said, his voice barely above a whisper.
Bella smiled. "I'll always be here for you, Zack ." Her voice filled with conviction.
As their eyes locked on each other, Time stood for a moment, Zack forgot about everything else, The only focus was on Bella's curved lips. Wanting to capture the moment, to kiss her.
But Bella broke the spell, standing up. "We should go. I need to prepare for tomorrow's assignment at Dani's."
Zack rose, his eyes never leaving hers. "Yeah, ok."
As they walked away, hand in hand, the tension between them lingered, a promise of something more.
Their eyes met once more, and Zack smiled, knowing that Bella was more than just a friend to him.
As Bella walked away from the cemetery with Zack the next day, the weight of their shared moment settled heavily in the air. They parted ways, leaving Bella to join Dani at her house for a study session.
Upon arrival, Bella was struck by Dani's warm smile and the cozy atmosphere of her home. As they delved into their books, Bella couldn't help but notice the way Dani's eyes sparkled when looking at her. Anna seemed oblivious to the subtle tension.
As the afternoon wore on, Bella excused herself to use the restroom. Dani directed her down the hallway, and Bella's footsteps echoed through the quiet house. Her gaze wandered, taking in the family photos adorning the walls.
One portrait, in particular, caught her eye: Dani, her brothers, and their parents beamed with happiness. Bella's heart swelled, sensing the love that radiated from the image.
As she continued to the restroom, her attention landed on a glint of silver on a nearby dresser. A familiar bracelet lay coiled, its intricate design unmistakable. Bella's mind flashed back to the night at the club – the same night everything changed.
She had lost this bracelet in the chaos.
With trembling fingers, Bella reached for the bracelet, her thoughts racing. How did it end up here?
Just as her fingers closed around the cool metal, Dani's voice interrupted her reverie. "I don't think this is the restroom," she said, her tone tinged with amusement.
Bella's cheeks flushed, caught red-handed. "I...I was just admiring your family photo," she stammered, trying to conceal the bracelet.
Dani's eyes narrowed slightly, her gaze flicking to the dresser before returning to Bella. "Let me show you to the restroom," she said, her voice measured.
Dani walked with Bella to the restroom, the soft hum of the house's air conditioning filling the silence between them.
"Here you go," Dani said, stopping outside the restroom door.
Bella nodded and entered. Dani waited outside, her back against the wall, eyes fixed on the floor.
As Bella exited, Dani pushed off the wall. "Do you need anything else?"
Bella's gaze locked onto Dani's. "Yes. My bracelet. Why didn't you give it back.?"
Dani's expression turned neutral. "I don't know what you're talking about."
Bella's voice remained calm. "Don't lie, Dani. I saw it on your shelf. It's mine. I lost it at the club that night."
Dani's eyes narrowed slightly. "It's not yours. I bought it at a thrift store."
Bella's eyes searched Dani's face for any sign of deception. "Why won't you give it back?".
Dani shifted uncomfortably, her voice faltering. " ok am sorry it's because...it's the closest thing to having you around me.."
Bella's eyes widened in surprise. "What?."
Dani's voice trailed behind her. "It's because I.....I
You what Dani, you what!!" Bella said so angrily without giving Dani any space to think.
I think I like you, Bella. From the day we kissed, I haven't been able to shake that picture off my head. It plays every single time I go to bed and close my eyes...all I see is you muffin."
Bella was shocked but not surprised
"What are you talking about exactly".
Am saying I think I've fallen in love with you. Dani said as She walked towards her looking directly into her eyes.
Bella's expression softened
but pain flashed in her eyes. "You would have given me back the bracelet. It was given to me by my dad. It was the last thing I had of him before he died. His family burnt every one of his belongings...the bracelet was all I had left of him."
Just then, Anna's voice echoed from downstairs. "Are you girls OK?"
Bella's voice was strained. "Yes, we're fine."
She turned and walked downstairs, leaving Dani behind, reeling from the revelation.
Dani stood frozen, the weight of Bella's words sinking in. She had unknowingly held onto a piece of Bella's heart, a connection to her past. Regret washed over her, mingling with her unspoken feelings.
The next day, the school buzzed with excitement as students gathered for the annual quiz competition. Dani and Bella, once friends, now sat on opposite sides of the room, their rift palpable.
Dani tried to initiate conversations, but Bella remained silent, her eyes fixed on the quizmaster.
"Team A, consisting of Dani, Anna, and Bella, will compete against Team B," the quizmaster announced.
The competition began, with questions ranging from history to science. Bella's team struggled, while Team B, led by Victoria, seemed unstoppable.
And Anna noticed the rift between Dani and Bella. She had overheard their argument the other day. But decided to remain silent about it. She excused herself and approached them.
"Hey, guys, what's going on?" Anna asked, concern etched on her face.
Dani shrugged, acting so calm and cold as usual. "Nothing, Anna. Just stay out of it."
Anna placed a firm hand on Dani's arm. "You can't tell me to stay out of it when you are Bella are both fucking up the quiz" "Please focus on the quiz you can both kill yourselves later for all I care," she said as she went back to her seat.
As the final question was asked, Bella's team trailed behind. Victoria smirked, "They would've done better without Bella. I told you guys that she was good for nothing.
The quizmaster announced Team B as the winner. Dani glanced at Bella, who looked dejected.
As the crowd dispersed, Becky approached Bella "Hey… what happened". Bella couldn't seem to know what happened and waved the question. I bet this will affect your SAT results", Becky said as she tried to help Bella pack her things.
Zack approached Bella. "Tough luck hun. Thought you guys had it."
He handed her a bag of snacks. "Brought these for you. Thought you might need a pick-me-up."
Bella managed a weak smile. "Thanks."
Zack leaned in. "Hey, I'm having a party tonight at my place. You and Becky could come."
Bella hesitated but Beck nodded and said they will be there".
Zack grinned. "Awesome! I'll text you guys the address."
As Zack walked away, Dani watched from behind feeling a pang of regret and longing. She had hoped to mend things with Bella, but now Bella seemed to be slipping away.
Victoria swooped in, taunting Bella. "Looks like you're only good for parties, not quizzes."
Bella rolled her eyes as she walked away with Becky.
Later that night, Bella and Becky stepped into the lively party, music and laughter surrounding them. Bella scanned the crowd, searching for Zack.
"Let's get drinks!" Becky yelled over the music.
Bella nodded and followed Becky. Soon, she spotted Zack.
As she entered Zack's room, she was surprised to see him
Lying on the bed, half-naked, smoking a vape. His hair was damp, as if he'd just got out of the shower.
"Hey Bella, you made it!" Zack said, standing up and adjusting his robe.
Bella's voice was barely audible, "Hey..." Her mind struggled to process the sight before her.
Zack offered her a drink, and they sat on the bed together.
"Do your parents really let you throw parties like this?" Bella asked.
"Yeah, they do," Zack replied with a big Smile on his face
"Well my parents are usually not home, so it's always me, and my younger sister Zoya who live here. I bet you have met her"
Yes, I did meet at the office the other day Bella said with a faint smile.
"So how are you?".
Zack asked, noticing she was not herself.
You haven't been yourself lately. It's not like you to fail the school quiz".
Bella noticed Zack was seeing right through her fake smile.
Took the drink from Zack. And said it was just some family issues.
Meanwhile, back at the dance floor, Dani pushed through the pulsating crowd on the dance floor, the music vibrating beneath her feet. She spotted Becky, lost in the rhythm, and tapped her shoulder.
"Hey, where's Bella?" she shouted over the music. Becky's eyes fluttered open, and she grinned. "Upstairs, I think... with Anna!" she yelled back, her voice barely audible.
Dani's curiosity piqued, and she made her way upstairs. As she reached the top of Zack's room she froze, her eyes locking onto a shocking sight Bella and Zack, lips almost touching, their faces inches apart. Dani's jaw dropped, her eyes wide with astonishment.
Zack looked at her as he touched her cheeks "Hey am always here for you if you need anything.
Bella couldn't resist his aura anymore.his charm and smile.
Just then, Bella caught Dani watching them from across the room.
"Can I kiss you "?. She asked staring into zacks deep blue eyes
Without any hesitation, Zack drew Bella closer as he kissed her so passionately.
He tripped on his gamepad on the ground as he and Bella fell on the bed.
His kisses wandered around her neck, his hands clutched hers.
As he kissed her belly button straight up to her breast in a very slow rhythm their bodies moved in harmony. As Bella moans so loudly. Her nipples, were as hard as his body
Zack couldn't take the feeling anymore all he could imagine was him being inside of her as he tried to put his hand down her pants.
Dani, who was watching, couldn't take it anymore and slipped out unnoticed.
Bella's gaze drifted toward the door, her thoughts lingering on Dani.
As she held zacks hand " I don't think am ready yet"
Zack looked at her as he nodded understandingly. Laid back and gently kissed her forehead.
As they both kept breathing so hard.