Page 103 of The Way the Heart Breaks: Jade’s Story

22

LIKE AN ONION

Tommy

It’s nearing the end of second period; I've already seen Jade twice, and somehow that's not enough. I think I have a problem…

It’s a good thing we share Study Hall in the library, which means we're supposed to be quiet, which means nobody really cares what we're doing as long as we don't get loud. I find a seat and look around. I spot Jade at one of the tables near the windows, her books spread out in front of her, and without really thinking about it, I grab my shit and head that way.

She looks up when I pull out the chair across from her.

“Hi.”

“Hey, pretty girl. Fancy seeing you here.” I sit down.

“You following me now?” She smirks.

“Maybe.”

She smiles and goes back to whatever she's writing.

I watch her for a second before opening my notebook. “So, what did your dad say?”

Her eyebrows lift. “About you hanging around the farm in your underwear?”

I close my eyes. “I think I’m going to have to move.”

“You can't. It’s senior year.”

“I could transfer.”

“To where?”

“Anywhere that doesn't have your father.”

She laughs again, and I can't help smiling. Then she shakes her head. “He likes you.”

I sit up a little straighter. “He said that?”

“Not exactly.”

“Jade.”

“He said you seem like a good kid.”

“That’s a positive.”

She rolls her eyes. “Don't look so pleased with yourself.”

“I am pleased with myself.”

“I can tell.”

“What did you say?”

“That you make me happy.”

The grin disappears before I can stop it.