REASONS TO LOVE A NERD LIKE ME

By Becky Jerams

Chapter 1
Hanging Around
It was just a typical Tuesday afternoon at Havensdale School and Sixth Form College. Some of the kids from
year 7 were running carelessly around the courtyard in the brisk, January air and the sound of their laughter
billowed in through the open window. The older sixth form students were hurrying between lessons or busy
working on their latest pieces of coursework. And as for me
I was hanging from a coat hook in the boys P.E. changing rooms.
I know its hard to believe that something so embarrassing could happen to a fully grown seventeen-year-old, but
there you have it. It was happening. I was strung up by my collar like a piece of meat at a butchers shop and
there was literally nothing I could do to get myself down.
My hands had been bound tightly behind my back with some spare rope from the P.E. cupboard. So tight in fact,
that my wrists were starting to ache from the friction burn. I had been certain that if I struggled about enough Id
eventually shimmy myself loose, but after ten minutes or so I realised it wasnt happening. My feet were flailing
helplessly above the floor and thrashing them around wasnt helping me in the slightest.
In the end, I decided to accept my fate and simply hung there limply in the pitch-darkness, waiting for someone to
come and find me.
I took a deep breath in and then out again. Maybe it wasnt so bad. Some stressed out students would probably
have killed for such a moment of calm in their hectic, overworked days. Also, I was only missing a maths lesson
and I felt pretty on top of all my work there.
I tried to convince myself that this was not the most excruciating moment of my life, but a nice bit of thoroughly
needed relaxation time. If I could just block out the stink of sweat in the changing room and ignore the fact that I
was seriously starting to need the loo, then perhaps I could actually enjoy the peace and quiet.
I closed my eyes and imagined a serene ocean scene. I had to remain calm. This was a busy school building and
someone was bound to find me sooner or later. There was no point in getting myself into a panic for no reason. If
I was lucky I might even be rescued by the next group of hot, half-naked upper sixth boys who needed to use the
changing rooms.
Only there were no hot, half-naked boys to come to my aid. Or any person in general for that matter. I was left
hanging in the darkness for what felt like an eternity. I kept calling out for help as loudly as I could, but the
soundproof doors of the changing room blocked out my feeble attempts of getting anyones attention.
Time spiralled away into the ether. I started to sing out loud in an attempt to keep myself sane, opting ironically
for the classic anthem I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor.
Just as I was mentally preparing for the ridicule that would ensue if I accidentally wet myself, I heard a light rap
on the door.
Hey, is anyone in there? Im looking for Scotty.
My heart did a backflip of sheer relief. It was Olive, my very best friend.

Olly! Im in here! Help me!

There was a pounding sound as Olive tried the door, only to discover it was locked. Scotty, whats going on? I
cant open the door. Did it happen again?!
Oh right. I probably should have mentioned that this isnt the first time this had happened to me. Id been hauled
up on a coat hook once before, only that time I had somehow managed to get myself down again. This time I
hadnt been so lucky.
Hang on a minute!
There was a short pause, followed by the sound of clinking keys as Olive began unlocking the door. She was the
head girl of the sixth form and, as a result, had access to the school key cupboard in case of emergencies. I
guess this may have been classed as an emergency.
The door clanged open, spilling light from the corridor outside into the room. Olive groped around for the light
switch.
For Gods sake Scotty, they left you in the dark?! This is getting totally out of hand! I was wondering where the
heck youd got to. How long have you been here for?
I gave a half-hearted shrug which Olive probably couldnt see in the darkness. I dunno. They got me on the way
to maths.
Bloody hell! she exclaimed. That was over an hour ago! Have you just been stuck here all this time?!
Finally, Olive found the light switch and brought the room back to life. It stung my eyes after being in darkness for
so long and I squeezed them shut behind my thick, black-rimmed glasses. When I opened them again, I saw
Olive looming before me with a look of total dismay on her face. I must have made for a truly pathetic sight, it has
to be said.
Come here then, Olive sighed, holding her arms out to me in order to get me down. She has always been a
good head and shoulders taller than me, which comes in handy when youre stuck on a coat hook. Gripping me
as firmly as she could, she lifted me up off the hook and helped me safely onto the ground. Then she gave me a
big hug as I stifled the urge to cry and wail into her arms. I couldnt even hug her back as my hands were still tied
up behind me.
She spun me round and began tugging at the rope, slowly but surely getting it to unknot. This is ridiculous
Scotty, they cant keep getting away with this. You have to do something about it!
I didnt need to tell her who was responsible for this particular incident. It was always the same guy and his bunch
of cronies. Taylor Raven. King of the school tennis court and head of the Scotty Williams hate campaign.
Olive finally snapped my hands free from the rope and I shook them about to regain feeling in my fingers. It
doesnt matter Ol, theres no point. Hes untouchable in this stupid school. Its only going to make him worse if I
say anything.
I turned back around to face her, taking in her exasperated expression. Olive is actually an exceedingly beautiful
girl, but she manages to hide it well. Her glorious mane of thick, untameable, blonde hair doesnt quite fit the
stereotypical Havensdale standard of style, plus her long, skinny arms and legs seem to trip her up wherever she

walks. She also wears thick glasses and braces, which have always labelled her as a bit of a geek by the popular
crowd. I simply adore her exactly how she is, but sadly the rest of the school seems to mock any girl without a
fashion sense they deem socially acceptable.
Luckily, Olive couldnt give two hoots about what her peers think about her.
She stood beside me with her hands on her hips, her tone of voice heading into full-on head girl lecture mode. If
youre not going to alert someone about this, and I strongly suggest you should, then cant you at least start
sticking up for yourself? Stop letting him get at you all the time. Fight back a little!
I knew she was right, but it was easier said than done.
Its all well and good to say that Olive, but its a different matter when theres a whole bunch of meatheads
ganging up on you. What was I supposed to do?
Olive shook her head, her blonde curls tumbling all around her heart-shaped face. Oh, I dont know Scotty,
surely you could think of something? Youre the smartest guy in Havensdale, couldnt you have used your
dazzling wit to talk yourself down?
I gave a sarcastic laugh. Oh yeah, Im sure my dazzling wit would work wonders with the Brainless Baker Boys!
My number one assailant Taylor Raven was actually very smart, but his two henchmen were anything but. Billy
and Bobby Baker (and no Im not making that up) were identical twins, both with shaved heads and more muscle
than sense. They were in the bottom of every academic class and had barely made the grades to get accepted
into the school's sixth form. However, they simply shone when they were out on the sports field. Whether it was
football, rugby or tennis, they seemed to have a knack for any game they tried their hand at, as well as the ability
to barge violently past any opponent that got in their way (which tended to be a tactic that worked less so well in
tennis, but they still gave it their best shot).
As Im a person on the more petite side of the spectrum, it was never going to end well once The Brainless Baker
Boys set their sights on me. Between them, they shoved me up on that coat hook like I weighed nothing more
than paper.
Olive was now pacing around the changing rooms, her anger almost visibly rising from her gangly body. I really
hate those guys! What on earth did you do that was so wrong to make them turn on you like this? I dont think I
can keep standing by and watching it happen anymore!
I put my hands on her shoulders to stop her frantic pacing and knocked my forehead affectionately against hers.
It doesnt matter Ol. Honestly, Im fine. Theres only a year and a half to go, then well both be off living brilliant
lives at uni. And when were big successes, theyll still be rotting away here with nothing but their precious
memories of school sports day to keep them warm at night.
Olive gave a little laugh, showing off the braces on her teeth (adult braces, she would hasten to tell you). She
knew I was right. School was always going to be rubbish for kids like us who were clever and motivated and not
afraid to stand out from the crowd. But we were smart enough to know this hellish little microcosm was merely a
tiny fishbowl in the grand scheme of things. It was just a case of sticking it out.
Sometimes I wondered if I should have transferred over to another college in the city, particularly when the
bullying was getting so bad for me. But Havensdale Sixth Form was the most academic of all the local colleges

and the best place for me to achieve the grades I so badly wanted. I couldnt risk going somewhere else that
wouldnt run the same level of courses. Besides, there was no way that I was leaving my best friend.
I know youre right, Olive replied to me. Im just worried about you. This isnt right Scotty! You dont have to
keep putting on a brave face all the time. Taylor Raven is a total bully and its about time someone put him in his
place. Seriously, all you have to do is say the word and Ill get him reported to the right people.
I shook my head. You know hes Havensdales golden boy. And you also know his Dad funds half of the building.
The most hell get is a slap on the wrist and then Ill have even more hell to pay.
Taylors father, Alan Raven, was a retired professional tennis player (hence where Taylor got his talent at the
game) and was an incredibly rich man. The whole Raven family lived on a massive estate on the outskirts of the
city and funded the school very nicely indeed with generous donations of their wealth. It was pretty much an
unwritten rule that in return they expected preferential treatment for their son. Whatever trouble Taylor got into,
the Headmistress of the school Mrs. Patricks always seemed to turn a blind eye. Not to mention he received
plenty of extra coaching and opportunities to represent Havensdale in tennis matches all across the country.
It always seemed that Olive forgot this very important point when she was giving me her usual Scotty-pep-talk.
She opened her mouth to argue with me, but I cut her off.
No arguments! Its pointless and its just going to cause more upset for me and my Mum. She doesnt need any
more stress. Im just keeping my head down and ignoring the stupid idiots.
I knew that my Mum would worry herself sick if she knew about Taylors stupid little stunt and it wasnt worth it.
Not when she was finally getting over what had happened to us a few years ago. That day when, out of the blue,
we got the news that my Dad had died in a car accident.
After you experience a day like that, being stuck on a coat hook for an hour is just a tiny dot in the ocean. Believe
me.
I think Olive could tell she was fighting a losing argument and her face eventually softened in acceptance. I had
known her since primary school and she had always been there for me through good and bad. In that time, she
had grown to realise that where my Mum was concerned, she was better to just leave things alone.
OK, fine. But I mean it. One word and Ill do everything in my power to sort out those horrible bullies. And I do
have a bit of power you know. She gave a smirk as she raised her blonde eyebrows. I did not doubt for a second
that Olive had most of the teachers in the school wrapped around her little finger and that anyone other than
Taylor Raven could probably be expelled in a second on her say-so.
Thanks, Ol, I said sincerely. Then I suddenly remembered my overwhelming urge for the loo. Ill be right back,
just going to freshen up.
There was a toilet inside of the changing rooms, which also held a row of showers. After Id finally relieved
myself, I turned on one of the showerheads and ducked my head underneath the falling water. I needed
something to knock me back into reality after all that time alone in the dark.
The ice cold water felt so good running down my neck, despite the fact my dark curls were also getting soaked.
My hair was probably going to get frizzy, but it was usually a little unkempt anyway so I didnt really mind. After a
minute or so I turned off the tap then wiped the lenses of my glasses using the corner of my shirt.

As I peered at myself in one of the bathroom mirrors, I couldnt help but see someone pitiful staring back at me. I
was the pale, scrawny, homosexual nerd. The easy target. I should have been feeling sorry for myself and
wishing I was anyone else at that moment in time.
But instead, I smiled at my own reflection.
I actually quite liked being me. I mean, maybe I wasnt the coolest or most attractive guy in the world, but I wasnt
exactly hideous. In fact, Olive always said I was handsome in a dorky kind of way. I was the guy with brains and
determination. With a fabulous best friend and a loving family. I was the guy who got trapped on a coat hook for
over an hour and lived to tell the tale.
I was not going to be the victim here.
I strode triumphantly out of the toilet feeling totally resolute. Olive was waiting outside and I threaded my arm
through hers. Come on Ol, lets get out of here!
We marched out of the changing rooms, like king and queen of the nerds. I wasnt ashamed of who I was! I
wasnt going to let this little incident set me back and I most definitely was not going to let Taylor Raven intimidate
me in any way.
And just as these thoughts were running through my mind, Olive and I came face to face with the man himself.
Taylor Raven, his girlfriend Patricia and The Brainless Baker Boys.
Oh brilliant.

Chapter 2
The Scotty Williams Hate Club
In an instant, I felt all of the confidence seep out of me like I was a deflated balloon. It was easy telling myself I
didnt care about my bullies whilst I was alone, but a totally different story when the lead members of my own
personal hate club were stood right in front of me.
It would seem that they had all just returned from the tennis court. Taylor was wearing gleaming white trainers,
black shorts and a white polo shirt that was covered in sweat. It pains me to say it, but he looked annoyingly
attractive with his racket slung casually over his shoulder and his ash blonde hair sticking up in damp tufts. The
Brainless Baker Boys didnt look quite so good with sweat shining off their identical skinheads. They did look
menacing though.
Taylor gave me a smug grin like I was the funniest joke he had come across all day. Why hello again Scottyboy,
what are you doing out and about in the hallway? He nonchalantly took a slurp of the water bottle he was
carrying and wiped his mouth with his hand. I thought you were meant to be all tied up today?
As the taunting words came out of his mouth I was reminded of how he had tied my wrists together in the
changing room. My skin was still stinging from the rope burn and I subconsciously held my hands tighter to my
sides. Billy Baker gave a loud guffaw, as did Patricia who was tailing the group of boys. Olive (who remained right
beside me) shot her an icy glare, which Patricia returned tenfold. I think those two girls hated each other even
more than Taylor hated me.
Listen up, Olive spat out in a fury. You can all bloody well shut your mouths. Youre just lucky that Scotty is
such a nice guy because if it were up to me, youd all be expelled so fast you wouldnt know what hit you.
I felt my insides churning. I loved Olive, but she really let her mouth run away with her at times. She was trying to
stick up for me, but I knew it would only make things worse.
Just ignore them, I muttered into her ear, attempting to pull her away. All I wanted was to go home and forget
this horrid day had ever happened, not relive it all over again.
No Scotty, they need to know! she exclaimed. Then she turned back to the boys. You are all complete and utter
thugs! You need to grow up and stop picking on people. Its not funny in the slightest!
The whole hateful crew was now doubled over in laughter at Olives little outburst. Patricia started to mimic Olive
in a stupid high-pitched voice. Oh, stoppp it guysss, its not funny in the SLIGHTEESTTT! She let out a peal of
shrill laughter.
Patricia really is a nasty piece of work. The best way to describe her is to imagine a horse that has been brought
to life and turned into a bratty teenage girl. She has a pointy nose, a snorty laugh and long blonde hair which she
always wears in a massive high ponytail on the top of her head. She also particularly loathes Olive for two
reasons. The first reason is that Olive got the position of head girl over her. The second is that Olive is effortlessly
prettier than her without even trying.
Olive loathes Patricia right back, purely for the fact that she is Patricia.

Calm down Ol, Taylor snorted patronisingly. It was just a joke. We were literally just coming back to get him
now. Surely Scottyboy can take a little joke, right? Cant you Scotty? He reached out to me and tried to pinch my
cheek like I was a tiny toddler. I saw red and swiped his hand angrily away.
Ooh, getting feisty now! Taylor mocked. Now Olly the wally is here to back you up. Wow, were all shaking with
fear!
The Brainless Baker Boys kept on laughing and gave some hoots of agreement. I noticed they never usually
gave much in the way of insults, leaving Taylor to do all the talking. They just agreed with anything he said and
did all his dirty work for him. I guess they figured it would get them brownie points with Taylors dad and all his
sporting contacts.
Olive was beginning to look absolutely apoplectic, but despite her obvious anger she couldnt seem to find a
single comeback and just gaped like a furious fish. Patricia saw her chance to strike. She edged closer towards
us, spinning her own tennis racket skilfully between her fingers.
Whats the matter Olly dear? Cat got your tongue? You need to get over this crush on your gay boyfriend already
and stop babying him. I mean its never going to happen, so give it up!
We both flushed bright red with humiliation. Taylor then piped up again. I dunno Pats, maybe Scotty should give
it a try. Its not like anyone else in this school would have him. Maybe it would finally loosen Olly up a bit.
That was the last straw. Seeing red, I grabbed Olive tightly by the hand and barged my way through the lot of
them with as much defiance as I could muster.
OOOOH! they all echoed in unison, continuing to laugh. We stormed off down the hallway, Olive giving the onefingered salute behind her as we made our escape.
Now, now, Taylor called out after her. Thats not very head girl-like behaviour! The cackling continued until we
made it all the way down the corridor and into the solace of the school cafeteria.
I slumped down on one of the empty tables and let out a hefty sigh. Olive decided to pace up and down next to
me, ignoring the strange looks she was getting from a couple of other students having a coffee break on the table
opposite.
I hate that stupid, horrible Taylor Raven and his stupid, horrible girlfriend! she vented as she stomped out her
frustrated energy. Who the hell do they think they are?! How dare they talk to us like that! Making stupid
judgements about us when they dont even know us!
Olives volume was getting louder and louder. A long-haired guy at the other table was looking over at us in
bemusement. She shot him a dont-mess-with-me look and he quickly took his coffee and exited the cafeteria.
I gave another sigh. I know. Theyre stupid morons. Who cares what they think? Just forget about it, its done
now.
Yeah, but its not done is it? Olive retorted, running a hand anxiously through her blonde curls. Theyre just
going to keep this up for the next two years.
Year and a half, I corrected. I was counting down the days until wed finally be out of this hellhole and onto the
rest of our lives.

However long, its still too long. She finally gave up her pacing and sat down on the chair next to me. I just
dont get it. Whats their problem? She began to drum her fingers on the table top. This is like the third or fourth
time theyve specifically targeted you and I just dont understand why.
She was correct there. Along with the two coat hook incidents, I had been temporarily locked in the lost property
cupboard and had a bottle of Coke spilled all over my rucksack. Not to mention all the times I had been tripped
up or shoved in the hallway. It was such stupid, childish behaviour and it was becoming relentless.
Olly, do you really need to think that hard for a reason? I questioned. Im not exactly popular around here am I?
Im the gay, maths-loving, non-fashionable nerd who runs the school R.P.G. club. I think that says it all really,
doesnt it?
I was expecting Olive to laugh, but she was still racking her brain with an intense look in her eyes. Yeah, yeah
everyone knows youre a dork Scotty. But it still doesnt make sense to me. Why this torture? Why now? I mean,
weve been at school with these guys for the last five years. Weve always had our moments with them, but this is
all just so vicious and out of the blue!
I shrugged. Maybe they got bored and Im just an easy way to pass the time.
Olive stopped drumming the table and began tapping her fingers together instead. I think its all down to Patricia.
She hated the fact I got head girl. She thought for sure she was going to be the one in charge around here.
Well, that sounded like a logical explanation. I decided to go with it.
You could be right. Shes always been jealous of you. Maybe shes asked Taylor to get to me as a way of getting
to you.
I saw a moment of epiphany shine in Olives blue eyes. Oh yeah, no doubt shes been twittering on in his ear
about how much she hates me and about how Im your friend. I bet this isnt even about you Scotty, its about
getting through to me! Youre nothing but a pawn in the gruesome twosomes evil games!
OK, now this was sounding like a massive conspiracy theory.
You dont know that for sure, I said gently. I mean, its a theory.
I know what Patricia is like, Olive scoffed. Shes got Taylor wrapped around her little finger. One word from her
and he would do pretty much anything. She knows how much it hurts me when I see my best friend suffer. I bet
she gets Taylor to harass you just to see the look on my face. God, this is so like her!
I wasnt entirely convinced with this reasoning. Actually, I was a hundred percent sure Olive was barking up the
wrong tree, but I decided it would be easier to let her believe her own story.
Maybe youre right Ol. I wouldnt put anything past the evil ponytailed one.
This agreement seemed to satisfy her and she gave a nod of finality to the matter. Me either! Now listen Scotty, I
cant stay much longer. I spent all my free period trying to find you and now Ive got a mentoring session with one
of the year 7s. Will you be OK If I leave you?

I smiled. It would seem like my allotted time for being comforted had come to an end. Olive ran a huge amount of
clubs and committees throughout the school and she was constantly on the go. I found her dedication to helping
her fellow students quite admirable.
Im totally fine, I replied with as much of a smile as I could muster. I think Im just going to head home. Ive
finished for the day now anyway. You go do what you need to do, we can chat later.
I can cancel if you want me to walk back with you? she offered. I knew that she would have, but I didnt want to
mess up any more of her day.
Honestly, Im alright. Once I get home Im sure Ill forget all about this crappy day.
We both knew that was a lie, but still Olive gave me her brightest look of encouragement. Thats right, go back
and relax and forget all about that idiot Taylor. She leaned over and ruffled my mess of dark hair. Ill speak to
you later, alright?
I gave her a small salute goodbye which made her giggle, then watched as she raced out of the cafeteria to her
appointment. I really hoped she wouldnt run into Taylor or Patricia again as they would probably still be lurking
around the hallway somewhere. Still, I knew she could handle herself a lot better than I ever could.
I looked at my watch. It was about forty minutes after my maths lesson had finished. I knew my teacher Mr.
Bicknam would be working in his classroom before his next lesson started as there was still one last period for
students on different time schedules to mine. I figured Id better go and catch up with him before going back
home as he was probably wondering where Id got to. It was rare that I ever missed a lesson.
Cautiously, I exited the cafeteria, looking up and down the corridors for any sign of Taylor and his cronies. I
couldnt see or hear any of them, which led me to believe they were all in the changing room. I walked as quickly
as I could past the scene of my coat hook trauma and legged it up the stairwell two steps at a time.
As I turned the corner I saw a huddle of older students going into Mr. Bicknams classroom. The next lesson must
have been starting. I wanted to catch Mr. Bicknam before I ran out of time, so I broke into a sprint.
I dont know if it was my poor co-ordination or my incredible bad luck, but as I ran toward the direction of the door,
I suddenly found myself painfully colliding with something solid.
Or rather someone solid.
The force in which I hit them was so powerful that I managed to knock all the books out of their hands.
Without looking, I scrambled to pick up the dropped books, profusely apologising as I did so. When I looked up I
saw someone tall, dark and brooding glaring down at me.
It was Vincent Hunter. The toughest guy in the whole school.
And I thought my day couldnt have got worse.

Chapter 3
The Tale Of Vincent Hunter
Let me tell you a little story about Vincent Hunter. There are lots of rumours and different versions of what
happened on the momentous day he gained school notoriety, but I was one of the only people who was actually
there. I witnessed it with my very own eyes.
It was a couple of years ago. I was in year 10 and he was in the year above. It was almost two years after my
Dad died, but I was still struggling to come to terms with losing him, which is why I happened to be in detention. I
know its hard to imagine a model student such as myself ever being in detention, but it took me a very long while
to settle back into school around that time and I was often getting in trouble for missed homework. There were
some days when I just couldnt muster up the effort to study at all. Usually my teachers made allowances and
turned a blind eye, but Miss White the science teacher apparently had a heart made out of stone.
Detention times in Havensdale are divided by subject rather than year group, so its not uncommon to have kids
of all different ages in one session. As a result, I found myself sharing the science lab with a load of little year 7s
and a handful of year 11 boys. Vincent Hunter included.
We were all sat at individual desks, catching up with work while we were stuck in the lab for an hour. Miss White
supervised the session for about ten minutes before heading to her office and telling us all she would be back by
the end of our sentence.
As soon as she left, the boys from year 11 started messing around. Not Vincent, he was sitting all alone at the
very back of the room. But there were about three other guys a few desks in front of him. I was sitting right at the
front away from any of them, resolving to keep my head down and ignore them all as I worked.
Vincent was working too, his head of brown hair facing down towards his notebook in concentration. His school
tie was hanging loose and his shirt was creased. I couldnt help looking over at him. He always looked so cool
and totally confident with himself. He was the kind of guy who did exactly what he wanted and didnt give a damn
what anyone else thought of him. At that point in time, I wished I could be a little more like him and a lot less like
me.
As I peeked over at him he caught me looking and gave me a slight scowl. I quickly turned back around,
coughing in embarrassment. I didnt know much about Vincent, but he looked like the type you didnt want to
mess with. Besides, I had inevitably heard the gossip going around the school. Everyone had, even the people
who didnt know him.
You see, a month previously, Vincents Dad had been sentenced to five years in prison for grievous bodily harm.
It had been all across the local news, so everybody knew. Mr. Hunter was a well-known drunk and general
troublemaker. Some stupid bar fight had led to him hospitalising an innocent pub-goer by smashing a pint glass
over his head. Luckily his victim didnt suffer any long-lasting damage, but wed all seen the pictures in the paper
and they werent pretty. Hed beaten the guy to a bloodied pulp.
After this news had got out, there had been endless rumours going round the school about Vincent.
I heard he was part of the fight, but he didnt get charged because hes a minor.
I feel sorry for him. I think his Dad beats him too.

You know what they say, like father like son.

I couldnt really imagine what it would have been like to have a father like that. My Dad had always been really
kind and gentle. Not some kind of violent thug like Vincent had clearly had to deal with. I knew how hard it was to
lose a father and I somehow imagined Vincent was going through the same kind of emotions as me, just in a
different way. So I hated to see him getting judged and talked about. It was hardly his fault what trouble his Dad
decided to get into, after all.
Still, it was hard not to find Vincent ever so slightly threatening. He was very tall and he had a real attitude about
him, which made everyone think twice about messing with him. Whether the rumours were true or not, most
people were under the impression that there was no such thing as smoke without fire.
As far as I knew, despite all the talk going around the school, Vincent had never done anything wrong to anyone.
At least, he hadnt until that particular detention where all hell broke loose.
It started out as nothing really, just stupid schoolboy teasing. The three boys on the middle desk were all
whispering and laughing together, every so often looking over at Vincent from the corner of their eyes. I never
paid that much attention to it at the time, only looking toward them briefly because they were disturbing me from
my work.
I thought at first they were all laughing at me (lets face it, Im usually the prime target for any kind of classroom
mocking) and I remember being quite surprised that they were obviously talking about Vincent. I just kept on
ignoring them all, pretending that I wasnt listening. It would appear that Vincent was doing the same thing,
because from what I remember he didnt look over at the guys or give them any kind of reaction at all. He just
kept on writing notes and blanking them.
Im not sure if the group of boys were frustrated by the lack of response or just emboldened by it, but they started
to talk much more audibly amongst themselves. They were all boorish types without a lot going on upstairs. I
didnt know who they were, but I later learned the ringleader was a guy called Rich. He gave a snorting snigger
as he looked over once again at Vincent. Oh look, hes ignoring us. Hes not as tough as everyone says he is.
Vincent still gave no reaction. A couple of year 7 girls near the front of the lab squirmed uncomfortably in their
seats as they joined me in pretending not to hear the commotion.
Richs friends were now all turned round in their seats and really staring at the back of the class toward Vincent.
Rich himself continued to goad him. Oi Vince, what are you doing sitting right at the back? Have you been a
naughty boy again? All the guys carried on laughing, egging Rich on. Not another detention! You been out
fighting again?
I couldnt help but sneak a look behind me at the scene. Vincent was still totally blanking the guys, but I could see
the grip on his pen getting a tiny bit tighter.
Now Rich was becoming really brave. Is it true your Dad is in prison Vince? Did he kill someone? Whats it like
knowing a real life murderer?
Richs mate gave him a playful punch on the shoulder. Naw, his Dad didnt kill anyone did he? Just nearly did.
Thats what I heard.

Brimming with bravado, Rich was now swinging his chair back in a cocky manner. What happened Vincey? We
want to know the real story. Youre like a school legend or something now. Whats your Dad really like? Is he a
right bastard?
Thats when it happened, completely out of the blue. Im not sure what the final breaking point was, but
something in Vincent just snapped. He went from cool and composed to a wild animal in the space of a
millisecond. Before Rich or his mates had any idea what was coming, Vincent stormed out of his seat toward
them, grabbed Rich by the hair and smashed his face into the desk.
The almighty crack of bone on wood caused everyone in the room to turn around. Blood was gushing out of
Richs nose and mouth and pooling all over the desk. One of the year 7 girls screamed. I just watched in absolute
horror and disbelief, paralysed by fear.
Vincent was still grabbing Richs ginger hair with a tight fist. He pulled the bleeding boy up from the desk and
shook him violently, watching him as he flinched and cried. Richs mates all sat there, mouths agape with tears in
their eyes. Vincent finally let go of his grip on Rich and turned to the other boys.
Dont you dare say another word about me or my family, is that understood?
Vincent roared the warning in a fury. The other boys nodded their heads through their stunned sniffling.
Seemingly satisfied with the punishment he had delivered, Vincent walked calmly back to his desk and carried on
working as though nothing had happened. Rich managed to shakily pull himself upright with the help of his
snivelling henchmen. He was still bleeding profusely and he looked absolutely shell-shocked. The year 7 girls at
the front were both on the verge of tears. I simply sat there in astonishment, wondering if what Id just seen had
actually been real or whether I had nodded off mid-detention and it was all some bizarre dream.
Of course, all the commotion had alerted Miss White who came blustering in a minute later, bewildered to see the
state Rich was in. She ushered him into the welfare office, telling the rest of us to stay exactly where we were. I
think we were all still in shock after the event, but Vincent seemed totally calm. When Miss White returned to the
classroom, he stood up and confessed immediately. He was then escorted to Mrs. Patrickss office straight away
while the rest of us all had to write down witness statements.
As it turned out, there was no real permanent damage done to Rich. Well, he had to have a couple of stitches.
Vincent was forced to make both a written and verbal apology and was suspended for two weeks. He would have
been expelled altogether, but the school seemed to give him some kind of special allowance given his family
circumstances. Naturally, Richs parents were furious about the decision, but the school felt the incident hadnt
been entirely unprovoked and that Vincents punishment was appropriate.
Of course, Mrs. Patricks didnt see just how psychopathic Vincent was with her own eyes. I mean, I would have
expelled him on the spot if I ran Havensdale. But this is real life where teachers seem to ignore violence and
dont protect their students in any way.
Naturally the whole thing became the talk of the school. Most people didnt realise Id been at the scene of the
crime, and I planned to keep it that way because I couldnt take all the questioning from curious classmates. I
pretty much tried to forget Id seen any of it and made a mental note to stay the hell away from Vincent Hunter at
all costs.
And now, here I was. Running head-first into him in the corridor and sending his schoolwork flying.

I braced myself for some kind of retribution. Maybe a shove or at the very least some yelling. But when I finished
picking Vincents books up off the floor, he simply took them back from me and said, Watch where youre going
Specs.
If I wasnt mistaken I almost detected a hint of humour in his voice.
Then just like that he was gone. I breathed a massive sigh of relief as I watched his tall form disappearing down
the stairs.
I then turned around and felt myself smack clumsily into someone else.
This was not my day.

Chapter 4
Girls And Games
The person I found myself colliding into was a strikingly pretty upper sixth girl with very short dark hair, gelled up
like some kind of tomboy pixie. She was carrying a guitar case over her shoulder and she looked majorly pissed
off with me.
Jesus Christ, what are doing?! she yelled into my face. "Move out my fucking way!
With that, she gave me a massive shove with both hands, before stomping off down the corridor in her big
clompy boots. She was following the direction of Vincent and I heard her calling out after him.
Oi Vincent, wait up! Some little prick nearly knocked me over!
I didnt say or do anything to defend myself from this rather scary girl. To be honest, I was still in shock that
Vincent hadnt punched my lights out or something. Instead, I took myself out the way of the oncoming slew of
students walking from class to class (so as not to cause any more corridor drama) and waited for the crowds to
clear before entering Mr. Bicknams classroom. Luckily for me, he was most understanding about me missing my
maths lesson. I think he probably twigged on better than most other teachers that I was being bullied and tended
to give me the benefit of the doubt in these kinds of situations.
Once Id cleared up that confusion, I decided to make my way home. It had been such a long, horrible day and all
I wanted was to get away from school and into the safety of my own territory. I went back downstairs and out
toward the exit near the school reception. The hustle and bustle of lesson change seemed to have died down,
greatly reducing my chances of knocking into anyone else and embarrassing myself all over again.
As I walked through the school grounds to the exit gate, I noticed Vincent Hunter and his tomboy friend sitting
under the big tree in the middle of the courtyard. Either they had a free period or they were bunking off lessons
(my guess was the latter). Vincent was smoking a cigarette as he rested against the tree trunk and the girl was
getting a bass guitar out of her case. I couldnt help but stare over at them. I thought Taylor Raven and The
Brainless Baker Boys were intimidating, but these two had heaps more attitude than all of them combined. It was
just something in the way they carried themselves. I couldnt believe Id bumped into them both and was actually
still alive to tell the tale.
I thought I was being inconspicuous as I looked over, but suddenly Vincent caught my eye. I felt myself blushing
bright red and turned my head slightly to the left, as though I was looking just beyond the big tree he was sitting
under. To my total astonishment, Vincent started waving to me. No wait, surely it wasnt aimed at me? But there
was nobody else around. Feeling thrown, I ducked my head down low and rushed out the school gate as quickly
as possible.
Although he was fairly far away, I heard Vincents laughter ringing out clearly behind me as I hurried off home.
--That evening, Olive decided to pop round and hang out for a while. I was really glad she did. She was lounging
on my bedroom floor as I laid on my bed. We both had our Gameguys in our hands and were battling each other
on our favourite computer game, Munchy Monsters.

Yes, I did it! Olive cried as she obliterated my Pikamunchy with her Fire-Otter. Ive been levelling Flamey up all
week so I could finally beat you!
I didnt have the heart to tell her that I sort of let her win. I just didnt have the energy for a full-on battle after my
rubbish day.
Looks like it paid off, I said with a smile. But Im demanding a rematch later.
All we ever did most nights was sit around playing Munchy Monsters. Well, that or Dungeon Adventure, but that
involved a lot of time and effort, which we couldnt be bothered with at that particular moment. We figured we
would wait until Thursdays R.P.G. Club to play a more in-depth game. For now, beating each other up in monster
form would have to suffice.
Olive switched off her Gameguy and put it into her backpack. So how was the rest of your day? Sorry that I had
to shoot off earlier.
Thats OK, I replied. Yeah, it was fine. I didnt see Taylor again, which was a relief.
Thank God! Olive exclaimed. Neither did I. Or the evil Patricia, yuck.
I gave a laugh. Yeah, but you wont believe who I did bump into And I mean literally bumped into.
Who? Olive asked curiously.
Vincent Hunter.
There was a long pause as Olive let my words sink in.
Wait. What? Vincent Hunter? As in Vincent Psychopath Bashes-Peoples-Heads-In Hunter?!
Olive was one of the very few people I had actually regaled with the legendary Vincent tale. Like me, she had
avoided him at all costs ever since.
The very same, I answered. I went back up to see Mr. Bicknam about my missed lesson and he must have
been coming from another class or something. I was in such a rush I didnt see him and I sent all his work flying.
Olives eyes widened in horror. You what?! What did he do?
I gave a small shrug. Nothing. He just told me to watch where I was going.
Olive had now pulled herself into an upright position and was leaning toward me, trying to savour every word of
my story. You knocked VINCENT HUNTERS stuff on the floor, the guy who almost hospitalised another student
and all he did was ask you to watch where you were going?
I nodded. Yeah. Oh and he called me Specs.
Specs?! she exclaimed. Bloody hell, thats practically a term of endearment!

I could feel myself starting to go a little red. Oh, shush Olive. I think maybe hes just a nicer guy than people give
him credit for.
Pfft, Olive spat. I dont think so. Hes nothing but rude and obnoxious to everyone. You must have done
something seriously right to get on his good side. If anyone else had done that to him they would have had a right
earful. Trust me, Ive seen his records.
I raised an eyebrow. Youve seen his records?
Of course! Olive boomed. Im head girl, Ive seen everyones records! And his is full of nasty little incidents that
managed to escape the public eye Swearing, intimidating people, generally being a right bloody bastard to
fellow students and teachers alike. Hes been on the brink of getting expelled for years, I have no idea how he
keeps managing to get away with it.
I rolled my eyes. I have no idea how YOU keep managing to read everyones files without getting expelled.
Olives pale skin suddenly became a little flushed. However she tried to spin it to me, I knew full well she was
nosing in business that she definitely had no right to be nosing in. Still, nobody had caught her. Yet.
Well, anyway, she said, hastily changing the subject back to me. I cant believe he didnt at least give you a
shove or something. Hes just the type to do something like that.
His friend shoved me, I answered, remembering back to the short-haired girl with the clompy boots. I sort of
bumped into her too.
You mean Alexis Mae? Olive gasped.
Of course. Olive knew who she was. Obviously.
Is that who she is? I questioned. She had short spiky hair and a guitar. Kind of grungy style.
Alexis Mae, Olive repeated in confirmation. Shes the only person Vincent has ever been visibly nice towards.
Im pretty sure theyre an item, although neither party has ever admitted it publicly. Shes basically Vincents
shadow. Wherever he goes, she shall follow.
Now that she mentioned it, I was pretty sure I had seen Alexis before tailing after Vincent in the school hallways.
She was the sort of girl you definitely remembered seeing.
Interesting, I said. You seem to know a lot about the two of them.
Well, its my duty, Olive replied with a flick of her curly blonde hair. Its important to learn about the rest of my
fellow students seeing as how Im in charge of the sixth form.
Not that you have a superiority complex, I smirked.
Olive shot me an offended look. When it came to her head girl responsibilities she didnt have much of a sense of
humour (even though the way she carried on was pretty funny most of the time). Still resting on the floor, she
leaned back against the side of my bed. Actually our paths have sort of crossed recently. Alexis applied for her
and Vincent to play the Battle Of The Bands competition next month that the school committee is putting on.

Oh yeah, that was right. Every year we had a school Battle Of The Bands and this was the first year Olive was
part of organising it. They have a band then? I asked.
Apparently. I havent heard the demo yet, I just forwarded it onto the rest of the submissions team. She gave a
lazy stretch, her long, slender arms pulling forward like elastic. I think there was some discussion about whether
to let them play with their track record. We dont want them to start trashing the stage or something. But I get the
final say on all staging decisions, so maybe I can pull some strings now you and Vincent are BFFs and
everything.
She waggled her eyebrows at me with a mischievous grin. I grabbed a pillow off my bed and smacked her gently
over the head with it.
Shut up!"
Olive started laughing as she pushed the pillow off. Seriously Scotty, you must have a death wish or something. I
mean, it wasnt enough to have Taylor on your case today was it? Oh no, you had to try and make an enemy out
of the resident psychopath too. But somehow you lived to tell the tale!
She suddenly caught sight of the Harry Potter collection on my bookshelf and pointed at it whilst in hysterics.
SCOTTY POTTER THE BOY WHO LIIIVED!
I groaned and sank back down on my bed. I was never going to hear the end of this.
With that, my Mum knocked on the door.
Hey there you two, Ive made dinner if you want some!
Olive stood up and opened my bedroom door. Oh yes please Mrs. Williams, that would be lovely!
My Mum beamed at Olive. She just adored my crazy, blonde friend. She was kind of like her surrogate daughter.
No problem Ollybean! You can both tell me all the latest gossip from school. Got any new boyfriends I need to
know about?
I groaned again. Was this day ever going to end?

Chapter 5
Noticing Vincent
Needless to say, over dinner I gave my Mum a heavily edited version of the days events, which omitted the part
about being hung up on a coat hook for the entire afternoon. I could tell that Olive was dying to spill the beans
about what had really happened, but she managed to resist. Like I told her, I didnt want anybody knowing about
what was going on with me and Taylor, especially not my Mum.
The last few years had been so hard on her. After my Dad died, it was almost like I had lost her too. There were
times where she wouldnt even get out of bed because she just couldnt face the day. My lovely, funny, spirited
Mum became someone I didnt even recognise anymore. I was only fourteen and it was a lot to handle. I was so
used to her being the strong one.
These days she was finally getting back to her old self. It was so good to see her laughing and smiling again, just
like the way she always used to. I wasnt going to let anyone take that away from us.
Especially not Taylor Raven.
After dinner, Olive went straight home whilst I decided to get an early night. I was so relieved that the day was
finally over at last. I fell straight into a deep sleep, but my dreams were a strange and cluttered mess of
everything that had happened during the day. Coat hooks and fallen books and clompy boots.
The next few days at college went by without incident. There were no more run-ins with Taylor Raven or the rest
of his crew (besides a few dirty looks from Patricia in the corridor, which were obviously aimed at Olive and me). I
wasnt sure if Taylor was biding his time for the next big attack or whether hed finally had his fill of torturing me.
Either way I was happy for a bit of calm in my college life, even if it was only temporary.
The one thing of note that did occur during the rest of my week was that I suddenly started to notice Vincent
Hunter and his sidekick Alexis. Everywhere.
I guess I must have passed them by many times before in my day to day life, but before the collision incident I
hadnt taken much notice of them. Now they seemed to be down every hallway, lingering outside every classroom
and lounging around in every part of the field outside. Once I started noticing them, I found myself looking out for
them all the time. I felt like I was turning into some kind of stalker. They became like a fascination for me.
Particularly Vincent
Whenever I saw him playing guitar under the tree where he always sat, he looked so serene. A world away from
the angry young man who violently attacked a classmate during detention. I wondered if maybe he wasnt as bad
as his reputation made out. I knew what it was like to be judged all the time and it wasnt a good feeling. Was
Vincent being wrongly judged by the people around him for one stupid, out of character mistake he made years
ago?
Then again, the more I noticed him, the more I noticed the dark streak running through him. The way he would
barge angrily through large groups of his peers. Bitter arguments with teachers outside of classroom doors, and a
general heaviness in his eyes that hinted at a history stained with darkness. Those eyes were a warning sign to
the rest of the world and the majority of students stayed well out of his way.

Alexis was the only person who Vincent seemed to tolerate in any kind of close proximity, but when I saw her
chasing after him chattering I wondered if even she was able to completely break through to his shell. Some of
the time it looked like he was locked in a world beyond the physical and her words were nothing but empty
smoke trails drifting behind him.
It was hard to believe that Vincent had actually been waving at me from the tree that day after Id bumped into
him. I wondered if maybe Id been mistaken, because it seemed so unlike the guy I was now witnessing. Not to
mention that if he recognised me, he wasnt showing it anymore. Whilst I was looking out for him, he had
certainly given up any kind of interaction with me. A few times he breezed right past me, eyes locked straight
ahead without so much as a glint of acknowledgement thrown towards me. Alexis also blanked me on the
occasions when our paths crossed.
One person who didnt ignore my fixed glances was my dear old pal Olive. On Thursday afternoon, she
confronted me as I was taking a pile of maths workbooks out of my locker.
OK Scotty, dont think I havent noticed. She was resting a long arm against the row of lockers next to mine and
towering over me with an accusing look in her eye. Youre obsessed with Vincent Hunter arent you?
I nearly dropped all my books in surprise at her calling me out. What are you talking about? I spluttered.
Olive pointed her finger at me. Nothing gets past me in this school Scotty Williams. Nothing! Ive seen you
molesting him with your eyes every time he walks past you. Youre like a lovesick puppy dog with your tongue
hanging out.
I somewhat resented this analogy. I mean, Vincent had peaked my curiosity for sure. But lovesick puppy dog? I
was hardly in that kind of territory. I mean, yeah, he was cute but I definitely didnt have feelings of love towards
him!
Youre crazy! I answered in defence. Ive barely even noticed him!
Bullshit! Olive crowed. You look out for him in every crowd! The other day I saw you walk the long way round to
the cafeteria just so you could follow him for a few extra steps.
I I felt like a change of scenery, I mumbled. Had I actually done that? I couldnt remember. And anyway, it
sounds like youre the one whos stalking me here!
Im just watching out for you Scotty, Olive replied in a more gentle tone. She took one of my workbooks for me
and walked alongside me as I headed for class. Just because Vincent was a little bit nice to you for like one
second, does not mean that you should go and get carried away about him. The guy is a psychopath, and
besides he isnt even gay so youre heading for total disaster if you start fancying him.
I seriously wanted the ground to open up and swallow me. Olly, I love you and I love that you are worried about
me, but like I already said, youre crazy! Vincent Hunter means nothing to me.
Olive tutted. OK, so youre not going to admit it. Thats fine, you dont like Vincent Hunter. I think you should
keep it that way!
Well, I will keep it that way! I repeated. Because I dont like him! I dont even know the guy, he doesnt even
cross my mind.

Alexis would go mad as well if she found out, Olive added as an afterthought. Im sure those two are a thing
and I bet shes the jealous type. You already have enough grief around here. You seriously dont need her on
your case too.
JESUS OLIVE! I cried, making a few passing year 8 girls jump out of their skin. I dont have a crush on Vincent,
so just be quiet!
It didnt matter how much you yelled at Olive, your words were like water sliding right off her skin.
Yeah, Im just saying if you did have a crush on him then that probably wouldnt be a very good idea so you
should really try and find something else to focus on. I know its difficult because we dont have many other gay
students in the school, but you should be concentrating on your studies right now anyway, not your love life.
I actually wanted to scream and throw all my books on her head. Luckily for me (or rather, luckily for Olive) it was
at this point that our conversation was interrupted by a call behind us.
Hey Scolly, wait up!
It was Mandy Peterson, one of the members of Dungeon Adventure Club. She was a few years below us and
always referred to us as one entity rather than by our individual names.
Hey Mandy! Olive beamed, her head girl persona switching on instantly. How are you doing?
Im good thanks, Mandy replied. I just thought Id let you know Ill be running a bit late tonight because I got a
stupid detention in P.E.
Poor Mandy was still in the year group where P.E. was mandatory. The worst ever subject for the majority of
geeks and nerds like us. Particularly for Mandy who got picked on mercilessly for her looks. She was a bit of a
big girl with frizzy red hair and freckles. As a result, she often forgot her P.E. kit and had to sit out of class. We
knew this because she was always running late for our R.P.G. club due to detentions.
Dont worry about it, Olive smiled. We can hang on for you.
And just think, I added, only one more year and then you never have to do P.E. again!
Mandy grinned from ear to ear. Oh, what a joyous thought! Thanks Scotty, Ill see you guys later.
She skipped off down the hall, just as I reached the stairwell that lead to maths. I grabbed the rest of my books
from Olive. Right, Ill see you later then Ol.
Yes, Ill see you in a bit. And remember She wiggled her blonde eyebrows with a knowing look.
I gave her a deadpan glare from halfway up the stairs. And remember what? What the hell is that look supposed
to mean?
It means nothing! she exclaimed, feigning innocence. Then as she walked away she added, Just stop fancying
Vincent Hunter!
I let out an exasperated groan that echoed all the way behind her as she strutted off.

Chapter 6
Taylors Next Attack
Some people in life are creative, whilst others are more logical. Someone like Olive for example is a great lover
of words and creative writing, which is why she chose to study subjects such as English language and critical
thinking (where all she does is debate with other classmates, so naturally she is in her element). I am one of
those crazy people who actually has a knack for both. I love languages of any kind and I have often been praised
for my eloquence in situations that leave others tongue tied. At the same time, I also find maths incredibly
rewarding and somewhat therapeutic. Numbers, patterns and problem-solving all give me a great sense of
satisfaction and really help me unwind. This is why I always looked forward to my maths lessons and found them
the most enjoyable of all my classes.
At least, I used to look forward to my maths lessons. Before I started thinking they were cursed.
The last time Id been on my way to maths, Id had a horrible run-in with Taylor Raven. Now the following lesson it
would appear that the same thing was about to happen again. Perhaps it was a statistical coincidence, but I was
beginning to suspect a pattern was emerging.
This time it happened after my lesson had finished. I was heading over to Dungeon Adventure Club, which was
held in the opposite end of the building to Mr. Bicknams classroom. I always liked to go the long way round,
heading outside across the courtyard to get a bit of fresh air on the way.
If only I had decided to go the regular route that day. Then perhaps things would have turned out so differently.
I had just walked past the school tennis court when Taylor appeared round the corner quite suddenly. I assumed
he hadnt been playing on the pitch himself as he didnt have on his tennis uniform for once. Instead, he was
wearing tight cut jeans and a thin white t-shirt that just about stretched over his toned torso. You could tell with
one glance that he loved himself and the body he worked so hard to sculpt. He sauntered toward me with an
arrogant smile on his lips.
Well hello Scotty, fancy seeing you round here. I didnt think you were a sports fan?
I stopped in my tracks, not sure how to respond. Had he seen me coming and been waiting for me? He didnt
have the rest of his posse with him this time, but somehow it made him even more intimidating.
He came closer to me. Whats up, cat got your tongue? Or have you got something to say?
I swallowed hard. My heart was hammering in my chest, but I tried to muster up some small morsel of courage.
What do you want from me, Taylor? I was looking at him directly in the eye, challenging him. Trying not to show
fear. I dont think it worked. He could probably smell the terror rolling off me.
You know what I want, he hissed in my ear. I want you to keep your mouth shut.
I wrenched my head away from his. I havent said anything to anyone!

We stood face to face, his expression a scowl and mine somewhere between fear and determination. Id had
enough of this awful treatment and now was my chance to try and put a stop to it once and for all.
Youve made your point OK? You and your horrible friends can crush me at any given moment. I get it! I
clenched my fists into angry balls, feeling the fury from months of torture building up inside me. I dont know why
youve suddenly made it your lifes mission to humiliate me all the time, but Ive never said a word and I dont
intend to. So just leave me alone!
Taylor ran a hand coolly through his mess of spiky blonde hair. Im sorry Scotty, but I just cant take that chance.
Were not at school anymore, this is sixth form. This is the time to really prove myself in my field. He was
sounding more and more frantic with every sentence. Ive got some big competitions coming up soon and I cant
let anything fuck them up for me!
Taylor, I dont give a damn! I shouted, surprising both Taylor and myself. Your life and your stupid tennis have
got nothing to do with me. Why would I try and cause trouble for you? I dont care! So just stop projecting all your
pathetic issues onto me!
This seemed to strike a nerve. Taylor suddenly grabbed my face hard, squaring up to me. I know you havent
forgotten about it and I dont want you getting complacent. You give the slightest hint to someone and my career
is ruined. Especially that stupid blonde-haired freak you hang out with who cant keep her mouth shut to save her
life.
I tried to force myself away from his vice-like grip, but I was pinned to the spot. I wanted to protest and explain I
had never breathed a word to Olive, as much as it killed me to keep such a massive secret from her. But I
couldnt say or do anything. My face was stinging and I could feel tears threatening to spill from the corner of my
eyes.
This is the most important year of my life, Taylor continued. Its the year everything is going to change for me. I
havent got to this point for some little nerd like you to ruin it all.
Finally, he let go of me. My hands instantly went to my face, rubbing my sore skin that was throbbing painfully. I
looked around trying to catch anyone passing by who could help me, but there was no one there. Most people
had gone home by now and would have no reason to be hanging around the tennis court. No wonder Taylor had
decided to be so brave in his attack, knowing full well no one would be about to witness it. I just wanted to run
away crying, but I pushed that instinct away and decided to fight back instead.
You know what Taylor? Im beginning to wonder what Ive got to lose anymore. Im damned if I do and damned if
I dont. I had absolutely no intention of spilling your little secret, but seeing as how things cant get much worse
for me, maybe I should just throw caution to the wind?
Taylor looked visibly rattled and for once was lost for words. Feeling like the power was falling in my favour, I
decided to carry on, my voice laced with pent-up anger.
You might not like me, but at least Im honest about who I am, which is more than can be said for you. What
would all your friends say if they knew what happened between us? Id have great joy in telling Billy and Bobby
for you. But it would be even better telling Patricia about her lying scumbag of a boyfriend. No, better yet Id
love to see the look on your Dads face when he finally finds out!
With that, I felt Taylors hand grip me round the throat.

SHUT THE FUCK UP!

I struggled as hard as I could to escape his hold on me. My words came out sounding strangled, but still
understandable. Let go of me or Ill tell everyone! They deserve to know the truth!
Taylor let out a cry of rage and then grabbed a massive handful of my dark, curly hair. It felt like he was going to
rip my scalp clean off my head. Before I knew it, I was being dragged around the corner of the tennis court and
over to the temporarily deserted P.E. cupboard that resided just to the side of the pitch. Taylor fumbled in his
pocket with one hand whilst keeping his other hand tightly wound in my hair. My head was bent back towards his
shoulder and tears of pain were now freely flowing down my face.
Believe me Scotty, if you think things cant get any worse then you are sorely mistaken. What Ive done up until
now is childs play. He pulled a set of keys from his pocket. Of course, being the schools golden sports star he
had access to the cupboard. If you dare say a word then I will ruin you. Ill make your life a living hell and not just
for you, but for everyone you care about. Your friends, your family. Ill destroy the fucking lot of you. Dont think
Im not capable.
With a slightly trembling hand, he tore open the cupboard door and literally threw me inside. The rucksack on my
back fell to the floor whilst my body fell heavily into a box of sports equipment. On the way down, I banged my
head so hard against a bundle of hockey sticks that my whole vision blurred before my eyes.
Taylor followed me inside. No sooner had I hit the ground when he gave me three heavy, hefty kicks in the
stomach which left me weeping in anguish. He loomed over me as I lay curled up crying on the floor, unable to
even drag myself up. His voice was a vicious hiss, barely audible over the sound of my own sobbing.
For the record, you were the biggest mistake of my life.
He slammed the door shut, leaving the whole cupboard shaking and immersing me in total darkness.
It was all too familiar a scenario. He and I together in this very cupboard with no one else around.
Only the last time, Taylor Raven had been making love to me.

Chapter 7
Past Life
I never really had a pivotal coming out moment when I was growing up. I mean, I never had a boyfriend or
anything and I didnt ever feel the need to suddenly stand up and announce my sexuality to the world. I think the
nearest thing I had to an official outing was back in year 6 when I had a massive crush on my classmate Stewart
Lindon. We used to sit next to each other during French and pass stupid notes back and forth under the table. He
had floppy blonde hair and a great sense of humour. I was totally smitten.
At the end of the year, I asked him if he wanted to come to the school leavers party with me and Olive. He turned
me down, saying it would be a bit weird to go as a threesome and that he was thinking of asking a particular girl
he liked from the class next door. My heart was instantly broken.
When I got home from school that day, I was a total wreck. I sat up in my room, crying on my bed and listening to
Sinead OConnor on repeat. My Mum brought me up a mug of hot chocolate and my Dad gave me a slightly
awkward speech about how I had my whole life ahead of me to meet the right kind of people. They both blatantly
knew what had happened (I think I talked about Stewart often enough for them to twig on), but they didnt judge
me or force me to talk about it. They just did their best to be there for me when I needed them. And, as a result, I
was able to get over my silly crush and have a great time at the party with Olive.
I guess its because of my parents that I have always been totally OK with who I am. Ive never hidden any
aspect of my personality, whether its my love of maths or the fact I like boys. Its nothing Im ashamed of, its just
who I am. The problem is that I tend to forget not everybody is as confident with themselves as I am. There are
some people out there who want to hide their true feelings. Who are terrified of what the world is going to say
about them. And whether its Stewart Lindon in French class or a certain Havensdale Sixth Form tennis star, I
always seem to fall for the guys who have a problem with being honest about themselves.
Taylor Raven wasnt always the kind of guy he ended up becoming. There used to be a light about him. Olive
would never admit this in a million years, but back when we first started school, we both used to eat lunch near
the tennis court so we could watch him while he played. Even from a young age he was ridiculously handsome
and talented, bounding across the court excitedly with true passion for the game pouring from every pore. Back
then, it was more of a hobby and less of a lifes mission. He played the game for the love of it and whilst he was
always a little cocky at his own abilities, there was a different air about him. Not an ounce of spite or malice. He
just loved tennis.
I never really had much to do with him over the following years. I would sit and admire him from afar sometimes,
but that was about it. One time in year 8 I accidentally walked in on him getting naked in the boys changing
rooms. It was between lessons and I went to get my P.E. kit that I had accidentally left in there. He just stood
there unashamedly with all bared, his eyes boring into me as I went bright red. I wasnt sure where to look and I
sort of couldnt tear my eyes away from his athletic body. He just smiled at me as I hastily exited in a fluster. He
loved to be a tease.
The next year was when my Dad died. I took a lot of time off school, but eventually I had to go back. To my
surprise, Taylor was one of the first people to offer me his condolences at what had happened. He approached
me in the hallway during lunchtime and squeezed my arm gently.
Hey Scotty, Im so sorry to hear about your Dad. I know I dont know you that well, but I always see you around
the courtyard. If you ever want to talk or just hang out, just let me know.

I remember being stunned that someone like Taylor had offered me his support. It was like a tiny ray of hope in a
really bleak and horrible time of my life. I didnt tell anyone else about it. I didnt even tell Olive. It was a brief
connection that I wanted to keep all to myself.
Over the next month, I found Taylor becoming friendlier towards me. Encouraging smiles in the corridor. Little
waves from the tennis court. Tiny moments that the average pair of eyes wouldnt even pick up on, but which
became my main focus to get me through the days.
It was just before the end of term that Taylor approached me again. It was a day when I had stayed behind late
for a detention (as I mentioned before, I got a lot of them around this time). He had just finished up from a
session on the court and sprinted over to me in his P.E. kit. There was no one else around, just the two of us.
Hey Scotty, you up to much over the holidays?
I remember feeling a little tongue-tied. I hadnt been expecting the guy I was majorly crushing on to ask me
something like that.
Oh, not really, just the usual. Hanging out with Olive. Helping my Mum out.
I trailed off, leaving a small silence hanging in the air.
OK, Taylor said, casually. Well, I was wondering if maybe you wanted to do something?
With you? I squeaked.
Taylor laughed. Yeah. Like, maybe go see a movie or something? You know, hang out.
This had thrown me for six. Was he asking me out on a date? Surely he knew I fancied him like crazy?
Erm, OK! That would be great!
Taylor took his phone out from his back pocket. Whats your number?
I recited my phone number, trying not to stammer in the process. Taylor clicked my digits in and gave me a
massively charming smile. Excellent. Ill be in touch.
He went to turn away and then turned back again. Oh, by the way, I know this sounds a bit weird, but could we
maybe do something sort of in private? Im supposed to be practising every day of the holidays. My Dad is
seriously on my case at the moment and hell go mad if he knows Im taking time out.
I suppose I should have known right from the word go that something was off about this proposed arrangement.
Maybe deep down I did know. But I was fourteen years old, my Dad had just died and the guy I liked was offering
me the one thing I wanted to hear. I just went with it.
Sure, no problem. I wont tell anyone about it. I dont want you to get into trouble.
Taylor clapped me on the shoulder in thanks before jogging off in the opposite direction. I was dazed and excited
and completely ignoring the sound of warning bells ringing in my ear.

It was over that summer holiday that my secret relationship began with the boy who would one day become my
worst enemy. I didnt realise that at the time, of course. All I knew was that one of the most popular, talented and
handsomest guys in school wanted to spend time with nerdy old me. I was living in a total dream and I didnt
even care that I had to hide it.
It started off as meeting up to watch a movie. I told my Mum I was studying over at Olives for the night just so
she wouldnt start asking too many awkward questions. Although she was so down around that time that I
probably didnt have to worry too much about her powers of perception.
I met Taylor outside of the cinema and he ushered me hastily into the darkened screening room. I wasnt sure
what his intentions were on that first night. I figured he probably felt sorry for me after what had happened with
my Dad and was maybe giving me a few small crumbs of friendship as a random act of kindness. However, as
we sat next to each other in the dark, I felt his arm brushing against my leg. Tentative. Testing. As though it was a
pure accident his skin was pressed against the crease of my jeans. I could barely concentrate on the film as I
was so aware of the closeness between us and so confused about what it meant.
After the movie was over, Taylor carried on like nothing was out of the ordinary. We went to the nearby arcade
and played some computer games for a while. Then an hour or so later, we meandered back to the bus stop to
catch our bus home.
I think Ill catch the next one along, Taylor said to me as our bus pulled up. You know, just in case anyone sees
us.
I tried to remain totally nonchalant. Oh. No worries. I dont want to get you into trouble or anything.
Hey, I had a great time though, Taylor continued. Lets maybe do it again sometime?
Sure, I replied, trying to reflect his total confidence back at him.
After that first meet-up, we began to text each other all the time. It started off as silly jokes back and forth, but
soon became much more meaningful. The barriers came right down when we were typing words onto a screen
and soon I got to know the real Taylor Raven. How he was feeling so stressed out about his future. How his Dad
never let up at him. How he really wished he could be more open about our friendship, but the sort of circles he
moved in might not take too kindly to it. As much as he liked me, I wasnt quite the sort of guy who would fit inside
his world.
I lapped up every excuse. I didnt care. I just wanted to be with him, and if that meant becoming his dirty little
secret in the process, then so be it. In a way, I kind of liked having him as my secret too. Something all to myself.
God knows how I kept it from Olive for all those weeks. I think she was careful to give me my space that summer
after what had happened with my Dad. If she had been in her usual full throttle Olive mode then there is no way I
could have hidden it from her. I know it was cruel to keep such a big secret from her, but I couldnt risk her finding
out and blowing my cover.
I started to spend more and more time with Taylor. As much time as we could both get away with without rousing
suspicion. We tended to go to areas where it was highly unlikely we would bump into anybody we knew.
Secluded parks or sometimes round at Taylors when his parents werent home. Usually we would talk and joke,
or play computer games. Taylor told me I was so much funnier than he ever realised. I thought he was funny too.
Looking back, its hard to believe he was even the same person as the young man he grew up to be.

One day, a few weeks into our secret meetings, he leaned over and kissed me. It was a shy, hesitant kiss. After it
happened we carried on playing Xbox and joking around like nothing out of the ordinary had even occurred. But
inside I was doing cartwheels of joy. I never thought my first kiss would come so soon and especially not with
someone like Taylor.
Over our next few meetings, there were a few more kisses. Kisses that got bolder and harder every time. We
didnt ever talk about what was going on between us, it just sort of happened. It was sweet and safe. Our own
little world where we could just be free.
Then toward the end of the summer came the day that changed everything.
The day that first sowed the seeds of hatred inside of Taylor Raven.
--Taylors house wasnt like any house Id ever been to before. It was more like a mansion. He lived on the outskirts
of Havensdale where the property was notoriously grand and expensive. With his Dads former career, the Raven
family were pretty wealthy. They had their own personal tennis court in the grounds behind their estate and
intimidating iron gates running around the building to keep intruders out. I never considered myself as being poor,
but seeing the way Taylor lived made me wonder if I was practically a peasant in his eyes.
Mrs. Raven worked part-time as an events planner and in her many free hours she was usually out shopping with
friends or getting beauty treatments done. As for Mr. Raven, he was now a professional coach for younger
players. When he wasnt on Taylors case, he was usually out on the case of some other kid. Because of this, we
tended to know when the Raven household would be empty for us to hang out together.
But somewhere along the line we started to get complacent. And one day, Taylors Dad caught us.
It was a weekday afternoon during the last week of the holidays. We were watching music television in Taylors
room and eating pizza. I remember he had some tomato sauce smeared all over his face and I was in a fit of
giggles.
What the hell are you laughing at Scottyboy?
Your face! You look like youve been snogging your pizza!
Taylor wiped a hand across his cheek and made the stain even worse, which led me to laugh even more
hysterically.
Seriously Taylor, thats a good look! Have you thought about wearing sauce make-up for your next match?
Taylor smirked at me. Have you thought about shutting your mouth?
With that, he pounced on me and wrestled me playfully to the floor. We were laughing so much and the television
was so loud that we didnt even hear Mr. Raven as he opened the bedroom door.
The moment that Taylors eyes locked with his Dads, the room went cold. We paused mid-wrestle and Taylor
hastily rolled off me as he tried to shrug his actions off as no big deal. Oh, hey Dad. I didnt know you were home
today.

Alan Raven was a tall man with stocky sportsmanlike shoulders and a harsh, unfriendly face. He looked like the
kind of guy you definitely didnt want to get on the wrong side of. He was taking in the scene before him with a
steely expression.
Taylor, can I talk to you outside for a second.
Taylor followed his Dad outside the door, leaving me sitting there in the middle of the room. All of a sudden I was
feeling very hot and uncomfortable. I didnt quite know what to do with myself, so I just carried on eating pizza
and watching TV.
Outside the door, I could hear every single word of the two Ravens private conversation. Alan had wanted me to
hear it.
What the hell is going on?
Nothing Dad! Im just hanging out with my friend.
Yeah, well Im pretty sure I know all about that kid. Why the hell are you hanging out with someone like that?
I told you, hes my friend!
There are plenty of other people at school you can be friends with Taylor.
I can see whoever I want to. You cant tell me what to do!
At this point, there was the sound of a scuffle. I wasnt quite sure if Alan was pushing his son or grabbing him
around the neck. His voice was now a low and aggressive rumble.
We have been working our arses off to give you the best chance of making a real career for yourself. You keep
hanging out with that boy and you can kiss it all goodbye. People talk Taylor.
But theres nothing weird going on Dad, I swear!
Youre fucking right theres nothing going on! This time of your life is about building up an image Taylor. Mixing
with the right kind of people. Thats how youre going to make it onto national teams and get noticed by talent
scouts. Some queer little geek is not the right image. I have no idea whats going on with you, but sort it out.
Now.
I could hardly believe what I was hearing. Every word was like a knife penetrating my heart. I had finally
discovered first-hand just what Taylors Dad was like. I knew he would react badly if he found out that Taylor liked
boys, but I didnt realise even being associated with someone like me would get Taylor into so much trouble.
As Alans heavy footsteps padded away, Taylor shakily came back into the room.
Um, Scotty. I think youd better go.
I wanted to say so much. I wanted to defend myself. I wanted to shake Taylor and yell at him for being so weak. I
wanted to run after Mr. Raven and tell him to shove his opinions where the sun didnt shine.

However, I simply gave a tearful nod and slipped out of the room, and then the house, without so much as a
word.

Chapter 8
First Time
I didnt hear a thing from Taylor over the remainder of the holidays. Not one phone call or text message. I was too
scared to make the first move. I think I had fallen in love with him, but now everything had been torn to pieces.
On the first day back to school, I felt sick to my stomach. It was the first day of year 10 and all I could think about
was what would happen when I eventually bumped into Taylor at some point. I contemplated about finally
confessing to Olive everything that had happened, but something stopped me. I was scared she would be angry
with me for lying to her and judge me for being so stupid. I really wish I had just trusted in her friendship and told
her the truth, but I was an idiot.
I remember when I first saw Taylor that day. It was mid-morning in the school hallway as Olive and I were on our
way to classes. He was standing with his arm pressed up against a row of lockers and his face annoyingly close
to horsey Patricias. She was giggling like a maniac as he so obviously chatted her up. Unsurprisingly, Patricias
family also had a big mansion on the outskirts of Havensdale. Im sure Mr. Raven felt she would be a much more
suitable "friend" for his son than me. It wouldnt surprise me if they had already been out on a date in the short
time since I was so callously thrown out of his life.
I saw Taylor look at me for an instant as I walked past. I held my head high and pretended like I didnt care in the
slightest. Inside I was dying, but I refused to let it show. Olive clocked Taylor's ongoing flirtation and turned to me
with a shocked look on her face.
Oh my God, Patricia and Taylor Raven? When did that happen?! I always thought he was a nice enough guy, but
he must have a screw loose to be interested in her.
I forced a fake laugh. Yeah, well you know what they say. Birds of a feather.
Olive gave a genuine laugh in return. Then we carried on with our day without her realising I was breaking apart
right before her eyes.
--Over the course of year 10, Taylors transformation really became clear. He and Patricia became the it couple of
the school and The Brainless Baker Boys started to hang out with them as their full-time lackeys. I dont know if it
was their bad influence or Taylor trying to compensate for his true feelings, but this was when the nasty incidents
first started. Little quips between lessons, little trips on the staircase. The sweet boy with pizza sauce on his face
was fading fast and a new, spiteful Taylor was emerging from the ashes.
I never confronted him about his newfound nasty nature. I never even retaliated when he or one of his gang
would push me in passing, or direct a snide comment my way. I refused to give him a single ounce of attention. It
was unbearable to be treated so badly by someone who I cared about so much, but I knew it was all a stupid
show because of his Dad. It was truly pathetic. I had to try and get over him and ignore all his vindictive
behaviour.
I still didnt talk about it with Olive, who at this point hadnt really noticed anything was wrong because Taylor
would tend to strike when I was alone. I didnt talk about the situation with anyone.

It was a few months into the new regime of Taylor Raven that we happened to cross paths just outside of the
tennis court. I was on my way home after working late in the library. Taylor must have just finished an after-school
tennis session, but for once he was alone. Neither The Brainless Baker Boys nor his bitchy girlfriend were
anywhere to be seen.
As I saw him approaching me I felt my stomach lurch and went to turn the other way. However, Taylor caught up
with me and put his hand on my shoulder.
Hey Scotty, wait up.
I pulled away sharply from his touch. Leave me alone Taylor.
I tried to make my way past him, my head down in an attempt to avoid any eye contact. He blocked my path and
put a warm hand around my wrist, trying to get my attention. Come on, talk to me.
For the first time in weeks, the mean glint in his eye was gone. Now, all alone with no one there but him and me,
Taylors guard was down and he looked almost vulnerable. I felt a rush of warmth at the old face I had grown to
love, then instantly felt annoyed at myself. I tugged my hand from his grip.
What the hell do you want from me?! Youve been absolutely vile since we got back from holidays! I felt my
voice begin to rise ever so slightly. I get the situation, OK? Ive stopped texting you and I havent told anyone
about it. So just leave me alone and stop making everything so bloody hard.
I could feel tears threatening to spill from behind my glasses, so I put my head back down and made a third
attempt to get away. I was blocked once more, this time by Taylors strong arms wrapping around me. He pulled
me tightly into his chest, stroking my hair soothingly as my teardrops started to fall. I could hear from the quiver in
his voice that he was crying too.
Im sorry Scotty. Im so sorry. Im a mess. I dont even know what Im doing.
I knew that what Taylor was saying was absolutely feeble, but for some reason I couldnt tear myself from his
arms. I was now sobbing into his shoulder. My brain was telling my body to get away from the snake I was
holding, but it was like I had lost all control of my common sense.
Did you ever care about me at all? I found myself weeping. All the tension I had held in for the past few months
was now unleashing like an explosive tidal wave. Because now its like you hahahate me I choked back
the tears as I spoke. I was truly a pitiful, stuttering mess.
I dont hate you, Taylor replied fiercely, clenching his arms around me more tightly. Of course I dont fucking
hate you Scotty.
Then why? Why are you doing this?
Its complicated. You know it is. He breathed out a sad sigh. Youve seen my Dad so you know what kind of
pressure Im under. I have to be a certain kind of person. I have to play the part.
I suddenly found the strength to push myself out of the embrace. Play the part of a complete prick?

Taylor ran his fingers through his mess of blonde hair in total exasperation. You have to understand Scotty,
please. If I dont act like I hate you Ill slip up. Ill make a mistake. Then my whole life will be over. My career,
my family. Seriously, my whole life.
And what about my life? I shot back angrily.
You dont need me, Taylor said with a sad smile. Youre the smartest guy in the whole fucking school. Youre
set for life Scotty. Once you get to uni youll be on your way to your dream career, fighting off all the other hot
nerdy guys. Ill be left here with nothing. Cant you understand? Tennis is all I have.
There was a silence as I let Taylors words sink in. I felt confused. My heart was hurtling up and down like a yo-yo
and it was Taylor who was pulling the string.
He moved closer to me again, his arms slowly finding their way back around me. My head was screaming a
string of warnings to my body, but my own arms werent listening as they locked around Taylors waist. Suddenly,
all I wanted to feel was his warmth, even if just in a fleeting illusion of love. I wanted to lap up every pathetic
excuse and give weight to the meaningless words that slipped so easily from his lips. His sweet, inviting lips that
were just inches away from my own.
With a boldness and stupidity that surprised even myself, I grabbed Taylors face and pulled him into a
passionate kiss. He didnt pull away. He melted into me, his strong hands roughly roaming across my back and
shoulders as he pressed himself into my body. I let out a small moan, losing myself entirely in exhilarating
sensations I had never felt before.
As we kissed harder and harder, I felt Taylor pushing me backwards, guiding me to the P.E. cupboard that was
standing empty a few metres away from us. He thrust me up against the wooden door, continuing to kiss me
violently with one hand gripped around my neck. His other hand fumbled for keys in his pocket. I detected a slight
tremor in his movements, but I wasnt sure if it was due to fear or excitement. I didnt care. I wanted him. And I
could feel against my own body just how much he wanted me too.
He unlocked the door with one hand and pushed me inside, tearing off my shirt instantly. I didnt resist, I wanted
him to do whatever he wished with me. As he tore hungrily at my jeans, he kicked the door shut, surrounding us
in musty darkness. I threw my head back and let out a loud sigh of nervous tension mixed with a sudden feeling
of ecstasy.
Thinking back to that moment, it was never the way I expected it to be. Boys like me were supposed to have shy,
sweet encounters with people they had been dating for a very long time. I imagined I would lose my virginity
embarrassingly late in life, on nice clean sheets with a nice clean boy.
Things never really work out the way you think they will.
--It was about twenty minutes later and we were lying closely next to each other, breathing heavily in the cramped
darkness. Our shirts were strewn carelessly onto an open box of basketballs and dust was swirling around us
from the rest of the old, unused equipment lining the tiny cupboard.
I was feeling slightly stunned. The last few moments had been an out of body experience and now reality was
slowly creeping back into my vision. I adjusted my glasses, which were now skewed crookedly after my dizzying

clinch. I ran my hands through my hot, tousled hair and looked over at Taylor. His eyes were shut and his face
was positively serene.
Our encounter had been thrilling and awkward and uncomfortable and passionate all at the same time. Id
honestly had no idea what I was doing, relying totally on my instincts. Taylor had seemed equally as unsure and
at some points the experience became somewhat painful for me. But at the same time it had felt so good to lose
myself in Taylors touch. To physically feel him so incredibly close to me. I had never shared such an intimate
moment with anyone before and the ever-increasing warmth between us was sweeping me away.
I turned my head to him, my heart fluttering with sudden panic. I had been so caught up in our clinch that I had
forgotten about something very important. Something grown-ups were constantly warning teenagers like us
about.
Taylor We didnt we didnt use protection. Was that really stupid of us?
He opened his eyes slowly and looked over at me with a tenderness I had never seen in him before.
Shh, its OK. Nothing bad can happen to you because Ive never been with anyone before. That was my first
time.
Me too, I whispered, my relieved heart hammering against my ribcage.
A soft, blissful smile crept across Taylors lips. He let out a small sound of contentment as I gently edged my hand
towards his, our fingers brushing.
At that moment, I was completely in love with him, more than I ever dared admit to myself before. My heart was
burning out of my chest and creeping up my throat. My lips moved to form the words.
I love y-
TAYLOR!
My confession was cut short by a haughty, female voice screeching outside the door. Baby, are you in there?
Taylor leaped up like a shot, his hand pulling away from mine so fast that he practically left friction burn on my
fingerprints.
Patricias footsteps stomped closer toward the cupboard as she continued to call out his name.
Taylor, come on! I told my Dad wed be home for dinner, were going to be late. Where did you go? The door
started to rattle as she attempted to open it.
Hold on Patsy! Taylor suddenly exclaimed, wrapping his hand forcefully around my mouth to stop me from
blowing his cover in any way. Not that I had planned to blow his cover, but perhaps if I had then things would
have turned out a lot differently for me. Im literally just coming baby. Im sorting out a load of hockey sticks that
wont stay put. Its a real mess in here, just wait by the court or else youll get a splinter.
Patricia let out a huffy sigh. Why are you sorting out the P.E. stuff? Ive been hanging around waiting for you for
over half an hour, you said youd be right back!

I tried to struggle from Taylors grip and he clamped his arm around my whole neck to stop me. Sorry
sweetheart, I had a bit of a bad match and Mr. Benson made me do it as punishment. Give me five minutes OK?
Alright, Ill go wait in the car. Love you.
Love you too.
The words were like lead bullets blasting into my heart. Reality had crashed into our little cupboard and was
consuming every spare inch of it.
Taylor listened very carefully for Patricias receding footsteps and only let me go once he was certain she was far
enough out of earshot. I was shaking slightly and couldnt seem to remember a single thread of vocabulary. I just
sat there naked and vulnerable, staring at Taylor in a daze. He grabbed our shirts from the dirty box they were
scrunched up in and threw mine at me as he quickly got dressed.
Stay here for half an hour before you leave. His voice was expressionless and his eyes were lightless.
He stormed out of the P.E. cupboard, slamming the door behind him and leaving me alone in the silent pitch
black.
I waited there for thirty minutes exactly, staring up at the dark ceiling and wishing the cupboard would swallow me
up completely.

Chapter 9
Coming Out Of The Cupboard
So here I was again, trapped in the darkness of the P.E. cupboard and feeling like it was the end of the world.
Apparently history was repeating itself, only this time the door was locked. Id heard Taylor turn the key just after
hed beaten me up and left me there.
Once the pain from my bruised stomach had started to subside, I pulled myself up and fumbled in my rucksack
for my phone. I knew I had to call someone for help, but I wasnt sure what story I was going to give. How could I
explain getting locked in a cupboard that I had no logical reason to be in? Perhaps I could plead insanity, say I
needed some space from the world and locked myself in somehow?
It didnt matter anyway because my phone had zero signal in the depths of the musty little shack. I swore under
my breath as visions of being stuck there all night long flickered across my mind. Perhaps if that happened I
could curl up inside the box of basketballs and get some sleep. Or perhaps Olive would realise something was
wrong when I didnt turn up for Dungeon Adventure Club and come looking for me.
I really wished I could just spill out my heart to her and tell her everything, but I was terrified of what Taylor might
do. If she accidentally let something slip then he could ruin our lives at Havensdale. I knew it wasnt an empty
threat. He would be out for revenge and might even bring my Mum into it in some way. It just wasnt worth the
risk. Id wait until we were finally out of college, then I would tell Olive the whole story. It wasnt much longer to
go, I just had to keep sticking it out.
Although sticking out this particular situation was easier said than done. About forty minutes or so had passed
and I was beginning to get a bit scared. It was cold and I was hungry. My sides were still aching and all I wanted
was to go home. I thought of Taylor going back to his lovely, posh estate, knowing full well what he was putting
me through. It made my insides twist and turn in whole new uncomfortable ways.
Just as I started feeling more tears building up, I heard movement from outside the door. Someone was
approaching and it sounded like they were very close. I opened my mouth to shout out for help, but then stopped
myself. What if it was Taylor again or one of his goons?
I dragged myself along the floor (any attempt at actually standing up was proving to be far too painful) and
peered through the crack of the cupboard door. I could see a shaft of light and a few trees outside, but it was
difficult to make out anything else. Then I heard the strumming of a guitar. A soft, lazy melody that sounded
weirdly familiar to me.
I craned my head to the right and out of the corner of my eye I saw him. Vincent Hunter. He was leaning up
against the side of the cupboard, playing his acoustic guitar. I felt my body shudder with shock. What was he
doing out here after college hours?!
I really didnt know what to do. This was the perfect opportunity to call out for help, but I didnt want Vincent to be
the one to find me. It would just label me as a total victim and I didnt need someone as psychotic as him on my
case on top of everything else. Hed probably spread it all over Havensdale and make everything ten times worse
for me.
Then again, he had waved at me the last time Id seen him, so maybe he wasnt all that bad. Plus I really didnt
want to be locked in the cupboard all night long. On the other hand, it was impossible to forget what had

happened to that Rich guy who had got on his wrong side. I could still see his blood gushing vividly in my
memory.
As I struggled internally about what was the best thing to do, fate stepped in to make the decision for me. I turned
myself away from the door and the side where I had been kicked went into a massively painful spasm. Before I
could stop myself I let out a howl of agony. The music outside the door stopped mid-riff.
Hello? Vincents voice sounded a little closer. Hey, is someone inside there?
He knocked on the door and I let out another choked whimper. I dont know what I had managed to do to myself,
but I was now in so much pain that I could hardly even move. Vincent tried to open the door but of course it was
locked.
Hey, are you OK? Talk to me!
It wasnt a question, it was an instruction. I willed myself to say something, but for whatever pathetic reason I just
couldnt form the words. My side was hurting so much and I just wanted to drift into unconsciousness until it was
morning.
There was a long silence.
I heaved a massive sigh. My one lifeline had just slipped away because I was such a coward. I closed my eyes,
ready to face the long, lonely night ahead. Then suddenly there was an ear-shattering crack. Wood splintered
into pieces. I leaped up in shock, sending more waves of pain along the side of my body. As I let out a shout of
agony, the door to the cupboard smashed open.
The bright light from outside burned my eyes, making everything look out of focus. As I blinked to retrieve my
vision I could see Vincent Hunter slowly appear in front of me, surrounded by the light of the doorway like a
beautiful, brooding angel. His gaze fell on me huddled in the darkness, his expression as stony and unreadable
as ever.
Specs, is that you? He pushed the door open fully and it hung limply off its hinges at his touch.
Oh, hey Vincent, I replied. Um, fancy seeing you here! Oh God, I had turned into the funny guy. I wasnt sure I
could laugh this situation off, but it seemed to be the option that automatically sprang to mind.
To my great surprise, Vincent came straight over and helped me off the floor. His warm, strong arm wrapped
around my back, lifting me up easily. It was a great struggle to stand and I found myself limping out of the
cupboard as he supported me. When we made it the few metres out, I felt like I had run a marathon. Luckily, the
school grounds were deserted at this time of day so there was no one but the two of us to witness this tragic
situation.
Do you want to sit down for a bit? Vincent asked. I nodded feebly and he helped me down onto the grass with a
gentleness I had never seen in him before. Once I had made it onto the ground, he sat down cross-legged next
to me, leaving enough of a gap between us to remain friendly whilst still giving me a bit of space. We sat in
silence for a long while as relief spread through my aching body.
Thank you, I said, eventually. I paused, wanting to add more but not really knowing what to say.
No problem Vincent replied. He looked up at the sky, leaning back on his hands casually. Are you OK?

Now there was a question. Yeah, I am now. Im probably going to hurt like hell for the next week, but I dont think
anythings broken or anything. I gave a nod towards the cupboard door behind us which was now swinging
lamely back and forth at an awkward angle. I could see the massive dent where Vincent had kicked it open. I
think that door has it worse than I do.
I saw a very small smile creep across Vincents lips. A kind of blink-and-youd-miss-it smile. I almost had to laugh
at the sheer absurdity of sitting there with him, like we were the kind of people who hung out together all the time.
Yeah well, Ive always wanted an excuse to break something in this place.
Something other than another students nose? (I didnt say that out loud by the way.)
I know the head girl, I heard myself saying. Ill make sure you wont get into trouble or anything. Ill say it was
some random kids from another school and she can get onto someone to fix it no problem.
Vincent let out an almost silent chuckle, shaking his head as he carried on staring up at the sky. I instantly felt
silly. Guys like him didnt care about getting into trouble.
After an embarrassed pause, Vincent turned to me. Hey, sorry. Its just Ive never met anyone like you before. Its
kind of funny. In a nice way.
Um. Thank you. I think?
Vincent smiled again. Then he reached over for his guitar, which was lying abandoned a few feet away from us.
He strummed it lethargically, pretty melodies pouring effortlessly from his fingers. I like to come here and play
sometimes in the afternoon. Its the one place I can get a bit of peace.
I listened along, the notes strangely soothing me. I knew I would have to stand up and be on my way soon, but I
just wanted to sit there a little longer and forget about the world.
As Vincent played, he carried on our conversation. Do you want to talk about who did this to you?
The bluntness of the question surprised me, as did the bluntness of my reply. No, not really.
Vincent didnt answer and I felt I should elaborate. Its the same guy it always is. Hes the schools oh so
wonderful, big shot tennis star and no one can touch him. Things are only going to get worse if I tell anyone, so I
just need to keep my head down and try and get through the next crappy year and a half. Then Ill finally be off to
uni and can kiss goodbye to Havensdale once and for all.
It was the first time I had ever really expressed my feelings about life to anyone but Olive. It felt good to say the
words out loud. A reminder that there was light at the end of the tunnel. Vincent didnt reply at first as he carried
on picking his guitar strings. Then he stopped playing and turned his head to me. I dont get it. Why would
someone be causing hell for a guy like you? What reason could they possibly have?
I laughed out loud at this. What reason? Are you kidding me? I can think of plenty of reasons to hate a nerd like
me. Where do I start? Im short, Im uncool, Im gay, I love the things that everyone else hates, I have no fashion
sense, Im ugly
Youre not ugly, Vincent interjected sharply. Jeez, youre a hard-arse on yourself arent you?

Ive just come to terms with myself over the years I sighed. Theres no point trying to pretend Im anything else.
But you know what? I like myself. Even if no one else does.
Before Vincent could say anything back, my phone started bleeping with missed texts that hadnt reached me in
the cupboard. I reached into my pocket and found a whole stream of messages from Olive, worrying about where
I was.
Oh bugger, I said aloud. Ive missed a million messages from my best friend. I dont know what Im going to tell
her. Shell flip out if she sees me like this. But Im supposed to be at Dungeon Adventure Club!
Dungeon Adventure Club? Vincent repeated. What the fuck is that?
Oh, I faltered. Its err, its a role-playing game
Vincent chortled audibly. Christ, you dont make things easy for yourself do you?
I couldnt help but smile in return. You should come along sometime, its fun!
Yeah. Maybe if I have a death wish, Ill think about it.
I knew I had to be delirious with pain if I was joking about R.P.G.s with Vincent Hunter. Although as I became
aware of my body again, I realised the pain was now subsiding. Leaning forward, I found I could slowly stand up
without feeling like I was causing myself serious damage.
Need a hand? Vincent queried, a slight tone of concern in his voice.
Actually, I think Im OK, I answered. I feel sore, but whatever was twisted seems to have gone back to normal.
I held my arms in front of my face, trying to see if there were any visible bruises. There were definitely some on
my stomach, as I could see them trailing down from underneath my shirt. As long as that was the only place I
was bruised, perhaps I could get away with pretending that this had never happened.
Vincent suddenly got to his feet and approached me. Let me help you.
No, no, its fine, I answered in a fluster. Im OK now. I think Ill just head home.
The strangeness of the current situation was slowly getting clearer to me, now that the rush of relief was
diminishing. I was out here with Vincent Bloody Hunter. And he was being nice to me. And hang on, he had
actually remembered who I was (sort of). What kind of parallel universe was I living in? His eyes bore into me
intensely, making me shift uncomfortably on the spot.
Do you live far? he questioned after a pause. Let me give you a lift home.
I felt myself blush at this unexpected offer. Vincent and I stuck together in close proximity for the length of a tenminute car ride? I wasnt sure I could handle that.
Oh no, dont be silly! I exclaimed shrilly. Im really not far, Ill be fine! But thank you so much for the offer. Right,
um, Id better be off then. But honestly, thank you so much!

I quickly checked my pockets for all my essentials (nope, nothing was lost), grabbed my rucksack and turned
toward the exit gates for my getaway. This entire state of affairs was excruciatingly embarrassing and I needed to
go before I made myself look like even more of an idiot.
Before I could make my escape, I felt a strong grip around my wrist. My heart stuttered as Vincent gently pulled
me back around to face him.
Specs, are you absolutely sure youre OK? Tell me the truth.
It was a command, not a question. I nodded frantically, my blush spreading over my whole face to match the
colour of my bruised body.
Really, Ill be fine, I said truthfully. And I mean it. Thank you.
Vincent seemed satisfied with my answer and let go of my wrist. His eyes werent letting go of me, however, as
his gaze continued to lock with mine.
Listen. If you get any more trouble, then come find me.
I couldnt quite believe what I was hearing, but I managed a tiny nod in reply.
I mean it, Vincent added. You dont have to put up with this shit anymore.
O-OK, I stammered. Well, Ill keep that in mind. Thanks.
The tall, older boy gave a little smile. Take care of yourself Scotty, right?
I almost choked in sheer shock. Yeah, how did you know?
Vincent shrugged. Ive seen you about the school I guess. See you round, yeah?
I nodded. Yeah. Bye Vincent.
As I walked to the gates, my head was reeling. Taylors words were still ringing in my head and I should have
been on the brink of tears after what Id just been through. But somehow the pain from his spiteful attack was
totally blocked out by the fact Vincent Hunter knew my real name.
Vincent Hunter knew MY name.
Behind me, I could hear a gentle acoustic melody start up once again. I turned back and Vincent gave me a small
wave from behind his guitar.
This time I waved back.

Chapter 10
A Welcome Distraction
Hey, have you got your phone on you? Olive asked, pointing to the Carphone Warehouse as we were walking
past it. Maybe they can take a look at it? Youve havent had it that long, I dont think it should be acting so
weird.
It was Saturday afternoon and we were out at the local shopping centre for a day of mooching about and hanging
out. Oh, I reset it and it seems to be OK for the moment.
Well, you should keep an eye on it. Theres no excuse for faulty goods!
I felt myself getting a little red in the face as I gave a half-hearted nod. Yesterday morning I had rung Olive with a
massive lie about why I hadnt turned up to Dungeon Adventure Club in the evening. I made up some story about
how Mr. Bicknam had kept me behind after my maths lesson to go through an important piece of coursework and
that I totally lost track of time, then that my phone had inexplicably stopped working so I couldnt text her. It was
the worst story ever and I didnt think she would buy it, but apparently my best friend had a lot of trust in me
because she accepted it without question. I really hated lying to her, it made me feel hot and prickly all over my
skin.
Still, that didnt stop me from piling another lie on top of the lie. There was no way I could face going into college
on Friday after my horrible Taylor ordeal, so Id told Olive that my Mum wasnt very well and that, since I only had
a few lessons on a Friday anyway, I was staying home to look after her for the day. I pretended shed had a
miraculous cure overnight so that I could still go out shopping the next day.
I know it was such a stupid lie, but Olive wouldn't have believed me if Id used any other excuse. She never
pushed too hard where my Mum was concerned, not after everything we had both been through. It made me feel
terrible to keep lying so much though. My skin was prickling again just thinking about it.
Olive looked over to me with a raised eyebrow as we walked along. Are you feeling OK? You look a bit hot and
flustered. Youre not coming down with what your Mum had are you?
Oh yeah, Im fine, I lied again. Im just feeling a bit muggy. Maybe I am coming down with something.
Nothing serious though.
The truth was that on top of the guilt I was feeling, I had on about three long-sleeved layers to try and hide up the
bruises on my body and I was boiling. It was a fairly bracing January day, but the weather wasnt so cold that I
needed quite so many items of clothing on my person. I had on a vest, a shirt, a jumper and a jacket. I just
couldnt risk Olive seeing any of my bruises. It would lead to awkward questions, which would lead to the truth
about Taylor coming out. And I was not going to let that happen. I had to protect us both.
You should take it easy, Olive commanded as she took a sip of the fruity iced drink she had just bought from the
nearest smoothie stand. You look so pale! I think you might be stressed out. All this Taylor crap must be taking it
out of you.
Yeah, youre probably right, I agreed. I found it was always easiest to say you agreed with whatever Olive said
and then she would usually just let the subject lie. There was a slight pause whereby I casually decided to
change the topic. So, did I miss anything at D.A.C?

Not much, Olive shrugged. Your wizard is still stuck in The Deadly Swamp so we just played on without you.
Mandys troll evolved to level seventy, but then Neils phoenix stole the Crystal Headpiece from her.
Oh my God! I exclaimed. It took her weeks to save up enough rubies for that headpiece! How did he manage
that?
He rolled a triple seven.
Oh man, what are the chances!
Neil was another member of our club, a rather tall and lanky boy from year 11 with a long, blonde ponytail. He
was the best player at Dungeon Adventure and always seemed to win everything in the imaginary realm of the
game.
Youve got so much to catch up on, Olive continued, slurping her drink as she spoke. Youve lost about five
Dungeon Years in that swamp! Youre going to need some major Youth Potions when you get unstuck. As she
chattered on about the game, a pretty purse caught her eye in the window of Accessorize. Ooh, can we have a
look in here?
Sure, I said, grabbing her now empty drink cup for her obediently and throwing it in a nearby bin. We headed
into the glittery entrance of the shop and Olive made a beeline for the rows of purses and wallets on one of the
stands. She loved looking at anything organisey, such as purses with lots of compartments or stationery with
numerous index tabs.
The shop was quite hot and I was sweating like mad under all the fabric that was enveloping me. I jigged about
on the spot, trying to distract myself from how uncomfortable I felt. Not only was I overheating, but my stomach,
arms and legs were aching like crazy from the nasty bruising Taylor had given me. Id been worried that I wouldnt
make it to the shops at all without limping, but thankfully I had improved enough by the morning to walk properly
again.
As I waited for Olive to look around, my mind began to wander. I started to think of Vincent. His strong grip as he
had helped me up from the cupboard floor. His calming presence. His quiet kindness on a day when I really,
really needed it. He was all I had thought about when Id got home, when Id fallen asleep he had been there in
my dreams all night long.
What do you think of this? Olive waved a glittery, blue coin-purse in front of my face. I snapped out of my
Vincent haze and tried to focus back into reality. Oh, um, yeah. Coiny.
Olive rolled her eyes. You are the WORST gay best friend EVER. You are supposed to be sassy and in touch
with your feminine side so that you can help me pick out nice, pretty things.
Sorry. I will try to conform to your hideous stereotypes more appropriately next time.
We both tried to keep a straight face as we stared each other out, but then we ended up giggling our heads off.
Olive put the coin-purse back on the shelf. OK, lets go. Shall we go look in the game store?
I followed her out of the shop and as I did so, I accidentally brushed shoulders with a girl in the doorway. Sorry, I
said politely. The girl didnt really notice and stomped straight ahead into the shop. She had a very short, pixie
haircut. For a brief moment, I thought it was Vincents sidekick Alexis. In fact, I was sure it was her. My heart

nearly stopped dead in my chest. Then she turned in our direction and I realised it was just some random girl who
looked a little bit like her.
I breathed out a sigh of relief. In my dreamy state, I had almost forgotten the reality of Vincent Hunter, but now
this total stranger had just reminded me. He had a girlfriend. At least, I think Alexis was his girlfriend. Either way
he was obviously very, very straight and I was very, very stupid to be heading down this train of thought. I had to
shake myself out of it. I didnt need any more drama in my life.
However, I couldnt seem to stop the painful streak of jealousy that was burning through me as I continued to look
at the pixie-haired stranger and imagine she was Alexis
Who are you looking at? Olive questioned, as she caught sight of me staring back toward the shop.
Oh, no one. I thought I saw someone I knew, but it wasnt them.
I seriously had to pull myself together. Maybe Olive was right and I was getting a little too stressed out.
--By Monday morning, I felt thoroughly sick about finally going back to college. The thought of bumping into Taylor
or any of his nasty gang was unbearable. I just wanted to make up some fake illness and spend the next month
hiding away at home. I knew I couldnt do that though. I had to pull myself together if I wanted to get good grades
and get into uni. Taylor had ruined enough of my life and he wasnt going to stop me from living it anymore.
So I forced myself to go in and get back to normal. It took an enormous amount of willpower, but I managed it. I
was constantly looking behind my shoulder at every turn and I did everything in my power to never be alone, but
nevertheless, I was back at college. Somehow.
I tagged along with Olive like a little lost puppy as much as I could and buddied up with random classmates
between every lesson change, even if I barely spoke to them normally. I was never going to put myself in the
situation where I could be on my own and hurt again. It was kind of exhausting, not to mention socially awkward,
but it was my coping mechanism. When Olive was busy with her hectic schedule and my other friends from the
club werent around, I found myself crashing in on acquaintances to sit and eat lunch. Before the Taylor incident, I
would have been perfectly content in the library by myself, but I was terrified to be alone. It was tragic really, but
that was the situation.
I managed to avoid seeing Taylor Raven for most of the week. There were a few times when I caught sight of
Patricia or one of The Brainless Baker Boys first and changed direction before any of them could see me. I was
quite happy to go the whole way around the building in a giant circle to get to my classroom if it meant I wouldnt
have to face them. There was also a moment on Tuesday afternoon where I passed Taylor in the courtyard
during my morning walk into the building. I managed to avoid all eye contact by putting my head straight down
and scurrying past as quickly as possible before taking refuge in the back end of a large crowd that was
congregating in the reception foyer. I felt so weak to be acting like this meek little mouse, too afraid to even look
Taylor in the eye. This is just what he wanted. But I really was afraid and I couldnt face him. I just couldnt.
Before I knew it, another Thursday had rolled around. This was when it happened. The head-on, no way I could
have turned back without looking like a fool, face-to-face meeting. I actually wasnt alone this time, I was walking
alongside Olive as we made our way to classes after lunch. This only made the moment worse, because if I
made a run for it then Olive would surely have given me the third degree as to why.

I gulped a breath of air in and held my head high as we neared Taylor, who was walking alone. He wasnt scared
or fearful like I was when I was alone. He fixed his eyes onto me, his mouth a burning straight line and his gaze
emitting more hatred than I could deal with. My legs were shaking and the remnants of my bruises started to
throb under my clothing at the memory of the previous week. I felt like I might pass out then and there in the
hallway.
Suddenly, there was a whistle from behind me. Hey. Specs.
I stopped in my tracks. Olive stopped as well, looking at me curiously. I turned to see Vincent Hunter sprinting up
the hallway towards me. Surprisingly, this was the first time I had seen him since what had happened last week. I
felt my heart melting into a puddle of relief and gratitude. I now had a reason to turn away from Taylor as he
sauntered past us all, out of my eyesight.
Vincent came up close to me, his dark eyes searching mine, perhaps for some kind of signal. Olive was still
looking on, totally confused. Um, can we help you Mr. Hunter?
Vincent looked at both of us, a serious expression on his face. I just wanted to ask Scotty something.
I couldnt help but gulp in surprise. W-What is it?
He paused, his face still deadly serious. I was starting to worry about what he was going to say to me.
I was just wondering where you got your jumper from.
I blinked in bewilderment, gazing down at the sleeve of my top which I was still wearing to cover my bruises. It
was really nothing special. Just a maroon colour with a little pattern around the edges.
Um, I faltered. I dont remember.
Vincent cocked his eyebrow ever so slightly. Oh. Well, let me know if you do remember. I want to get one too. I
think it would look great on me.
I caught Olive looking on in total bemusement. Vincent was very much a leather jacket and band t-shirt kind of
guy. He would never be caught dead in a maroon jumper with little patterns around the edges.
"Erm sure... I'll let you know," I continued, hesitantly.
"Thanks Specs," Vincent answered. Then with that, he walked off just as suddenly as he had appeared.
Olive looked totally flabbergasted. What in Gods name was that about?!
I I dont know I replied.
But I did know. Vincent must have put two and two together when he saw Taylor walking towards me, so he had
made up a pointless reason to talk to me. To distract me from having to face my bully.
A small smile crept across my face as I watched Vincent striding confidently off into the distance. My heart was
now glowing so brightly that it erased all the fear I had currently just been feeling.

Chapter 11
Dungeon Adventure Club's Newest Member
It had been a few hours since Vincent had approached me in the corridor, however, the incident was obviously
still plaguing Olive to her very core. To my surprise she was waiting outside the door of my maths class, ready to
pounce on me as soon as I finished the lesson.
I braced myself as I packed up my things and headed toward the door. Err, hey Ol, what are you doing here? It
was almost time for Dungeon Adventure Club and she usually met me there since our last lessons of the day
were on opposite sides of the building.
She rolled her eyes a little and leaned against the doorframe, partially blocking it from people trying to get by. I
skipped the end of my tutor session so I thought Id come meet you. Miss Bishops doing a whole spiel about
writing personal statements. She knows how hard Ive already worked on mine, so she let me off.
Well, that didnt surprise me. Olive was exemplary at writing her accomplishments onto paper and she had
already typed up the perfect personal statement for uni placements about a year ago. I had no doubt in my mind
that she would get into any university she wanted. She would probably be fighting off the offers.
I opened my mouth to respond to her, then she suddenly launched straight into the conversation we had been
having earlier, picking up from the exact point where wed had to go to different classes. So anyway, seriously
Scotty, what the hell was that about earlier? I know youve had this weird obsession with Vincent, but I didnt
realise you guys were talking now. Are you friends or something? When the hell did this development happen?!
I bristled. Somehow I had waved away the unusual Vincent incident as totally normal after it had happened. I
should have known I wasnt going to be let off so easily. No wonder Olive had skipped the end of her tutor
session, she probably just wanted to know what the gossip was.
Were not friends! Not really
Olive was still stood in the doorway, not caring that she was getting in the way of all the other students who were
trying to leave the room. What do you mean not really? You either know him or you dont. Why would he come
up and ask you such a random question unless youd been talking to him? I know he would never be caught
dead in that jumper he asked you about!
I felt myself squirming under the interrogation. I couldnt tell her the real reason Vincent knew I existed was
because he had found me beaten up in the P.E. cupboard. Or that he had blatantly asked me about my jumper
just to catch my attention and stop me from bumping into my attacker.
We just chatted a bit the other day. You know, just a bit of small talk at the bus stop. (I am not sure where the
bus stop came from, it was all I could think of.)
Olive was not fooled. Vincent Hunter has his own car. I have never once seen him take the bus.
Oh God, I forgot she knew each individual movement of every single student in the sixth form. Before I could
think of another excuse, she glanced at her watch and started dragging me along the corridor. Lets walk and
talk. We dont want to be late.

Olive hated to be late for anything, so even juicy gossip couldnt prohibit her punctuality. We hurried hastily
through the building side by side. After a very brief moment of silence, she continued talking without giving me a
word in edgeways.
I know theres something youre not telling me, Scotty Williams. In fact, I can guess exactly what happened.
She gave me a grilling look, which I tried to return with the most innocent face I could muster.
I bet youve been stalking Vincent so much that he feels sorry for you now. I know youve been looking out for
him at every turn. Its not healthy Scotty! Youve been dying for any excuse to talk to him and somehow you must
have found one.
Olive stopped suddenly in the middle of the hallway and I nearly tripped over her. She let out a massive gasp. It
was last week wasnt it? When you missed D.A.C! I bet you werent talking to Mr. Bicknam about maths at all,
you were talking to Vincent!
II WAS talking to Mr. Bicknam, I replied in a fluster.
But you never miss D.A.C! Olive cried. You obviously found some opportunity to approach Vincent and then
you blew me out. All that stuff about your phone being broken was total rubbish wasnt it? I knew you were acting
weird and distracted!
She actually sounded quite angry now. I guess she was sort of spot on with her realisation, except for missing out
the part about me being trapped in the P.E. cupboard and unable to move. I guess if shed known that bit then
she wouldnt have been so mad. However, that little fact could NEVER get out, so I had to go with her version of
the story.
I pulled her gently to the side of the walkway so we had a bit of privacy. OK, youre right. Im sorry Ol, I didnt
mean to lie to you. Its just that I heard Vincent playing guitar on the way to D.A.C. and for once he didnt have
Alexis with him and I finally got up the courage to talk to him. I guess maybe youve been right about me
having a tiny bit of a crush on him. I told him I liked what he was playing and we just got talking. I lost track of
time, then I was too embarrassed to tell you the truth.
Wow, I was actually quite impressed with the lie that came out of my mouth. It sounded pretty convincing. I was
getting far too good at lying to my best friend and I hated it.
For once, Olive didnt have a comeback straight away. She let the information sink in and I watched as a subtle
range of emotions flashed across her face. Hurt. Annoyance. Pity? Eventually, she sighed.
Why didnt you just tell me the truth? There was no reason to lie to me about it. Do you really think Im that much
of a bossy cow that you cant even talk to me?
She looked a little upset and it broke my heart. Of course not! Dont be so stupid. I was just embarrassed about
it since I know its a silly one-sided crush.
Well good, Olive said. Im glad you realise that because you already have enough on your plate right now
without adding a broken heart to the mix. She paused. OK, I know I really do sound like a bossy cow now and
this is why you didnt want to tell me But Im just trying to look out for you Scotty!

I laughed and gave her a playful nudge. I knoooow Ollywally. Look, I appreciate it. Im not going to lose my head
or anything. Can we just forget this whole stupid, embarrassing thing and go play Dungeon Adventure?
Olive smirked. Yes. Just promise me one thing.
Whats that? I asked.
That you will never lie to me again!
I tried my hardest to keep the guilty colour from rising in my cheeks.
I swear to you I will never, ever lie to you ever again for as long as I live. I made a little cross-my-heart gesture
for dramatic effect.
Olive laughed and linked arms with me as we walked to the club. I laughed back despite feeling like the worst
friend in the entire world.
--Dungeon Adventure Club was always held in room 3B down the English corridor. It was often used for various
clubs and meet-ups despite its rather dark and dingy interior with broken window blinds that blocked out most of
the light in the room. Not that we minded so much since it added to the mysterious atmosphere of our fantasy
world.
We kept the board game locked in one of the cupboards and it always took us a little while to set it all up and put
our characters back in the right places. Fortunately, Olive kept a running memo sheet to remind us of every new
development and it just took a little bit of backtracking to figure out where everyones pieces were supposed to
be.
I scanned the notes from the week Id missed. Hey! Mandy took my Flying Cloak, thats no fair!
Well, you should have been here to defend yourself, Olive taunted.
Im stuck in a swamp! Talk about kicking a wizard when hes down.
We were the first members to arrive, but after a few minutes of setting up the board we were joined by Mandy
from year 10. Her frizzy red hair was plaited into cute little pigtails and she was positively beaming. Hey Scolly! I
am so excited for todays game. Now Ive got Scottys Flying Cloak, my troll is basically unbeatable!
I pretended to be furious, waving my fist in the air. Youll rue the day you stole my possessions, you scoundrel!
Mandy instantly erupted into a fit of giggles. It was always such a nice atmosphere at D.A.C. We could just be our
geeky selves and mess around without judgement from anyone else.
A little later Neil, our lanky ponytailed pal from year 11, turned up along with the fifth and final member of our
group, a German guy from year 10 called Fritz. He was incredibly quiet with a rather blocky frame and a cute
face. I think Mandy had always had a bit of a crush on him, but he was so shy that he hardly spoke to any of us
outside of character. However, Dungeon Adventure Fritz was a dark knight who was alarmingly animated
compared to his real life counterpart. I waved at him and Neil and they both gave awkward grunts of greeting in
reply.

We gathered in a circle around a couple of tables that Olive and I had pushed together. Olive took the head of the
table of course. She shuffled through her memo notes a little more.
OK then! Nice to see everyone back together again this week. How have you all been doing? She cast her eyes
to the younger members of the group. I trust youre all keeping up with your revision work? This is an important
time of year for everyone and I dont want you getting behind on your grades because of these meetings.
Neil drummed his long fingers anxiously on the table. He always seemed to get nervous when talking to anyone
of the opposite sex. Erm Olive, you ask us the same question every week. I think were all pretty much on top of
everything, the exams are months away
Olive narrowed her eyes. Yes Neil, I do realise that. I am head girl you know! But its my duty to make sure
everyones prepared for the upcoming year!
YOU MUST NEVER QUESTION OLIVES AUTHORITY! I shouted out in a stupid voice, banging my hand
jokingly on the table. Mandy laughed her head off, whilst Neil looked like he was going to pass out. Fritz just
stared blankly ahead, trying to avoid any kind of social interaction. Olive looked cross at first, but then she
laughed too.
Alright you lot, she continued. Since youre all so very clever and together, lets have a recap of last weeks
game. She flicked swiftly through her notes in her usual organised fashion. So! Scottys still stuck in the swamp
as we all know
Hey, Mandy interjected. What happened to you last week anyway Scotty?
Erm, I faltered. There was no way I was telling the group about Vincent. His bad reputation was known
throughout the whole school and they would probably have been horrified to think I'd had anything to do with him.
As I struggled to find the appropriate answer, Olive came to my rescue. Oh, you got caught up in maths, didnt
you Scotty? Then his phone inexplicably died. She slyly winked at me across the table and I gave her a grateful
smile in return.
Oh, is there something wrong with your phone? Neil asked. I can probably take a look at it for you. Neil was
one of the only year 11s in the school taking a GCSE in electronics. He was so great at fixing things that even the
teachers asked him for help when any of their devices went wrong.
Thanks Neil, but I think it was just out of battery or something, I lied. OK, that was going to be my last lie of the
day. Honestly.
Olive shuffled her papers again to try and get everyones attention. Right, come on boys and girls! Lets get
DUNGEON ADVENTURING!
We all gave an excitable little cheer and pretty soon we were totally immersed in the game. Time always flew by
as we delved into our fantasy land. We had created a huge tapestry of story, which unveiled itself piece by piece
with every game we played. It was so thrilling, like our own little world that only the five of us knew about. D.A.C.
definitely had the fewest members out of all the school clubs, but I can guarantee you that no other group of
students had as much fun as we always did.
We tended to play for a couple of hours per meet-up and as always the first hour flew by in a haze of dice-rolling,
giggling and shouting to claim various items and power-ups. Dark knight Fritz was currently in the middle of a

vicious mountain-top battle to try and overthrow the goblin king. We were all rolling dice frantically in an attempt
to join in with the battle when there was a loud knock at the classroom door.
Olive snapped her head up. Who on earth could that be?
We were all jolted back to reality momentarily (apart from Fritz who carried on playing the game without realising
the rest of us had stopped for a second). It was very rare for anyone to disturb our club. In fact, I didnt think
anyone else in the school even realised we existed. I really hoped it wasnt someone coming to yell at us for
being too noisy or something. I shot a confused glance at Olive over the table and she stood up to answer the
curious knocking.
Hi, can I help you? she said automatically, prising the door open. Then to my great amazement she let out the
tiniest of little squeaks. I looked over to her direction in confusion, but I couldnt see anything beyond her masses
of blonde curls. After a little pause, someone spoke from the other side of the door.
Oh, hey. This is R.P.G. club right?
My heart stopped. No way. It couldnt be.
Err, yes. It is. How can we help you...? Olive sounded flustered for the first time in her entire life. I refused to
believe this was real. It couldnt be him. This had to be some kind of joke.
I wondered if I could come and join in with you guys? You know, if Im allowed?
Mandy, Neil and even Fritz were now looking over at the doorway in amazement. We hadnt had a new member
join our club since well, ever. Little did they know to whom the ominous voice actually belonged. I knew as
soon as I heard its deep, velvet tone and super-confident manner. My heart was beating a million miles a minute
and I felt my whole body heat up to what must have been a beautiful shade of beetroot red.
I had never heard Olive lost for words before, but she seemed to be truly stumped for a response. After some
moments of silence, she forced herself to speak. Um, right! Yes, of course... Of course you can! Err, come on in!
She made a beckoning motion with her hand before turning to face me, her eyes wide and wild as she tried to
communicate silently with me. I read her loud and clear. What the actual hell is happening?! pretty much
summed up her expression.
She sat down and pointed around the room at all of us. So um this is Mandy, Neil, Fritz and I think you know
Scotty already
Vincent Hunter sat down confidently in a free seat, slouching ever so slightly and running a hand through his thick
mane of dark brown hair. Hey guys. Im Vincent.
I looked round at the others. Olive still looked shell-shocked, as did a gaping Mandy. Neil was as pale as a ghost
and visibly shaking. Fritz had locked his gaze onto the blank wall on the opposite side of the room. Oh dear God,
was this situation actually happening?!
Vincent shifted a little in his chair, totally ignoring the vibes of terror rolling off everyone else. So um, yeah I
heard about your club and I wondered if youd teach me how to play? It sounds like fun.
He looked in my direction and gave me a conspiring little wink along with one of his trademark smirks.

Vincent Hunter, the toughest guy in the whole school, the guy who broke another students nose in a violent fit,
the guy who played in a rock band and was effortlessly cool without even trying was asking a bunch of nerds to
teach him how to play Dungeon Adventure.
I must have been working too hard in my maths lessons because this had to be a hallucination.

Chapter 12
Vincent The Familiar
It was quite difficult to comprehend why Vincent had decided to show up at our club. The others definitely knew
about his bad boy reputation. They were all too terrified to even speak to him, despite the fact he was being
perfectly pleasant to everyone. I guess I should have taken the lead seeing as how it was down to me that he
had even turned up, but for some reason I felt a horrible wave of shyness overcome me. Vincent had seen me at
my most vulnerable and I had no idea where I stood with him now. I didnt think we were even friends Were
we?
Olive broke the silence and took charge in her usual Olive manner, addressing Vincent directly. OK Vincent, so
how much do you know about Dungeon Adventure?
He gave a small shrug. Nothing really, Ive never played. Im sure I can pick it up though.
Neil started to look a bit twitchy in the corner. Im sure he was thinking the same thing as the rest of us. That
Dungeon Adventure was not the kind of game you just picked up. However, none of us quite had the nerve to
point that out. We all looked anxiously at one another, unsure how to proceed on. Finally, Mandy spoke up.
Well, its quite a complicated game, but were happy to teach you if you want to play! Were in the middle of a
really big story arc at the moment But pick a character and join in, Im sure youll catch up!
Why is it that girls can just say things so easily? Mandy and Olive always articulated themselves so well and
were able to come out with whatever needed to be said. I, on the other hand, was struggling to even say hello. I
had to get a grip.
Yeah, who do you want to play as Vincent? I forced myself to say cheerily, as though Vincent and I had been
good old buddies for years. You can pick anything you want. Im a wizard, Mandy is a troll, Olive is a
sorceress
A sorceress with glasses and braces, can I just add, Olive pointed out.
Vincent smiled sincerely. Cool. Sounds like a pretty good sorceress.
Olive smiled back, showing off her real life mouthful of braces. God damn it, why did Vincent have to be so
bloody charming?! Just looking at his ridiculously handsome face was causing my legs to turn to jelly underneath
the table. This was so embarrassing!
So I can pick anything? Vincent continued in his nonchalant, laid-back manner. I can be what? A prince or
something? That would be cool.
Neil suddenly cleared his throat awkwardly. Ahem Well, err, actually Its a bit complicated if you want to be a
prince. You see, Scottys wizard took over the Kingdom Of Arkenbell and all of the royal family are currently in a
time-freeze spell Although I suppose we could find a loophole for you if you really had your heart set on a royal
character. Perhaps you could be a long-lost cousin of the kings only son, travelling from the Doormore
Mountains?

Vincent laughed out loud. Woah, hang on I really dont want to be the awkward one here and disrupt your
story. Ill pick something else. He paused to think for a little while, a sexy crease forming on his forehead. Oh
God, I needed to stop staring at him so much, I really was becoming a stalker! I just couldnt believe he was
actually here in my world. The nerd world.
Ive got it! Vincent exclaimed. Im going to be a ghost. Cool right? He gave a triumphant smirk.
With that, Fritz slammed his hand on the table. It startled everyone, apart from Vincent who didnt even flinch.
You cannot be a ghost, Fritz shouted angrily in his thick, European accent. This is not a horror game, it is a
fantasy! You cannot just pick the first thing that comes into your head. What appears next if he picks a ghost?
Aliens? The loch ness monster?! We must have some rules in this game, he cannot just do whichever he
chooses!
Fritzs English was a little broken, but his message was loud and clear. I was absolutely astounded at his outburst
seeing as how he never normally spoke more than two words to anyone. Now he was kicking off at Vincent
Hunter of all people!
Olive gave him a scolding look. Fritz, whats got into you?! If Vincent wants to be a ghost then just let him be a
ghost. Its fine!
Oh, just let him be ghost, you say, Fritz continued. Ghost of what? Ghost of who? What history and where he fit
into our game? He was working himself up into a complete state now. I couldnt believe it!
For crying out loud Fritz! I snapped. Whats your problem? Just let Vincent join in, its only a game.
It not just a game! Fritz cried, visibly hurt by my words. Dungeon Adventure like my other life. My family.
Vincent never want to join in with us before, why now? He just want to come for five minutes and mock us! He
want to pick it up for a joke. But it not just a joke to me! Im sorry, but I feel very strongly about the thing what we
create. It mean more than just something to amuse him for one day!
We all looked around at each other stunned. Fritz was now rather red in the face and he slumped angrily into his
seat. I never knew he had it in him to say so much. Mandy looked shocked, and possibly a little impressed. We
never realised he cared about us all so passionately!
Before anyone could think of a response, Vincent held his hands up in defeat and stood up.
Mate, Im really sorry. Youre right. This obviously means a hell of a lot to you guys and I didnt intend to treat it
like a joke. He ran a hand through his hair again, taking time to choose his words carefully. I guess I was a bit
dumb to think this was the sort of thing you could pick up in an hour. Its clearly more in-depth than your average
game of Scrabble and I cant really commit to coming every week so Ill just go. But thanks for letting me try
and join in. Youre all cool people.
He made to leave and before I could stop myself I reached out and grabbed his arm. Wait, dont go!
Vincent looked straight at me, a glint of amusement in his eyes. Woah, easy tiger.
I pulled my hand away self-consciously. Dear God, could this get any more embarrassing?! I tried to remain cool.

Erm, I mean come on guys, this is not what were about. We always said we were the club that didnt exclude
other people like they do to us. Is there no way we can just let Vincent join in for today?
The others exchanged glances with each other, obviously feeling a little bit guilty. Fritz was still sulking in his seat,
avoiding eye contact. Then Neil piped up in a shy voice.
Um, well actually, I was thinking Scotty has a few Familiar spells saved up. Technically he could summon an
animal familiar character for Vincent, which would last approximately an hour of gameplay. He could help him
with extra attacks in our battle. Well, thats if Scotty wants to use the spells...
Oh Neil, you blonde ponytailed hero! Yes! Yes! Perfect! Ill use my spell! Come on Vincent, sit back down.
Vincent looked over to Fritz. Is that OK with you mate? Ill take it seriously, I promise.
Fritz remained silent for a moment, but then finally he relented. Yes. That is fine. I am sorry if my words make
you uncomfortable, I just feel very strongly for my club and friends.
Vincent grinned. Hey, no worries. I get it. I think its pretty admirable that you stand up for what you believe in.
With that, he sat back down, right next to me. He was so close that our legs were ever so slightly touching. It was
sending electric shocks through my whole body. I took a deep breath and tried to concentrate on the matter at
hand.
OK, great. This is great! So um, Vincent what animal would you like to be?
Can I be a tiger? Vincent replied with a little smirk. I am a Hunter after all.
If he didnt stop being so sexy anytime soon then I was just going to melt all over the table and ruin the whole
game.
--The following hour of Dungeon Adventure was quite possibly the best we had ever played. Vincent kept to his
word and took his role of my animal familiar very seriously. He picked up the rules quickly and was soon rolling
dice like crazy and calling out magic words to help me defeat goblins left, right and centre. He even helped me to
get my Flying Cloak back from Mandy! We were an incredible team, and the others all upped their game to
match.
The room had very quickly descended into a cacophony of excited shouting and laughter. Having Vincent there
had brought a whole new dynamic to our gameplay and everyone was thoroughly enjoying themselves in his
presence. The minutes flew by and it was time to pack up before we knew it.
Its six o clock guys, Olive called as the alarm on her phone started pinging. Looks like weve got to wrap this
up. Vincent your time in our world is up Im afraid.
Nooooo! Mandy cried. It cant be! Cant we just keep playing a little bit longer? Scotty can extend Vincents
spell, he has enough power points
The school starts locking up fairly soon Im afraid, Olive replied. But what a great game its been today! Mr.
Hunter, do feel free to join us again whenever you like.

Yes, you good player, Fritz added. You do take seriously, so come join us again, please.
If I wasnt mistaken, Vincent looked a little touched at the warmth in the room. Wow, thanks guys. I really had
fun. If I didnt have so much band rehearsal at the moment then I would be here every week. Maybe when Ive
got more free time But Ill definitely pop in again.
Can I just ask something? Olive said inquisitively. What made you want to come and check us out? I mean as
you can probably tell, were not exactly inundated with members.
Trust Olive to be so blunt. But she was saying what we were all thinking. Why the hell did someone like Vincent
want to come and hang out with people like us?
To my surprise, Vincent turned to me as he answered. I was chatting to Scotty the other week and he brought it
up. He said it was fun. Its not what Id usually be into, but I thought Id check it out and expand my horizons. Im
glad I did because this was so great!
I willed myself not to blush in front of him. Oh, gosh. Well, were all really glad you came, Vincent.
He didnt say anything more but just smiled at me from where he was sitting. Yep, that melting feeling was
coming back. It was hard to believe that this was the same guy who was so feared throughout the school. Was
he actually my friend now?
He helped us to pack up the board and we all started to say our goodbyes and file out of the classroom. Olive
and Mandy skipped ahead, whispering conspicuously to one another. No doubt they were both in a state of shock
about Vincent and wanted to gossip about it. Neil and Fritz followed behind them, then as I made my way out of
the door I was stopped by a warm hand on my shoulder.
Specs...
I turned around to face Vincent. I had to look up slightly as he was so much taller than me.
Are you OK? He whispered the words quietly so that the others wouldnt hear.
YYeah, Im fine, I stammered.
He looked at me sincerely, his dark eyes roaming mine to check I was telling him the truth.
Honestly Vincent, Im OK. Dont feel you have to you know, check up on me. The thought suddenly hit me
that his little stint at D.A.C. was probably just to humour me. I couldnt bear it if he was just here over some guiltridden duty after finding me beaten up. Was that the reason he had distracted me from Taylor earlier too?
You dont have to feel sorry for me or anything, I added. Ive got loads of friends, Im fine!
Vincent shook his head with an exasperated grin. Ha! Specs, I could never feel sorry for you. Youre the fucking
coolest guy I know.
What?! Now I know he had to be messing with me. But he sounded like he really meant it.

Before I could think of what to say, he started to push me out of the door in a teasing manner. Lets go then,
soldier. I had to laugh as I was frog-marched out of the room. I loved the playful contact he was giving me a little
bit too much, but I just couldnt help it. I knew it was only friendly where he was concerned, but it gave me such a
rush of joy.
As we tumbled out of the doorway in a fit of laughter, I noticed the others had slowed down in front of us. Olive
was having a heated discussion with someone just up ahead.
Get out of my way, Braceface, Im looking for someone!
Excuse me, Miss Mae! I think you had better mind your manners!
Alright! Im sorry, but I seriously need to find my friend. You havent seen Vincent Hunter have you?
Olive moved out of the way, revealing Vincents sidekick Alexis Mae. She looked over at me as I stood beside
Vincent and it was impossible not to see the sheer fury burning in her black-lined, heavily mascaraed eyes.

Chapter 13
A Walk In The Rain And A Song On The Brain
Alexis stormed past Olive and the others, her chunky boots thundering heavily on the carpeted hallway floor.
Vincent, Ive been looking for you everywhere! Didnt you get my texts?!
She clomped straight up to the both of us. I felt incredibly awkward and didnt quite know where to put my face.
This girl was terrifying! Despite only being about five feet tall
Vincent remained cool as a cucumber, as always. He casually put a hand into the pocket of his jeans to pull out
his phone.
Shit, sorry Al. I thought youd gone home already. I didnt check my messages.
Alexis screwed up her face in annoyance. Well, I didnt go home! Ive been stuck rehearsing by myself in the
music room. I thought maybe something had happened to you, Ive been all over the bloody building trying to find
you! Theres a really great bass riff idea we need to go over together, A.S.A.P!
Vincent put his phone back in his pocket. Sure, whatever.
Olive and the rest of our club were still poised in the hallway, taking in the scene that this pint-sized monster was
making. Alexis looked over at them, then turned to me with a horrible scowl on her face. She looked like she
wanted to tear my head off. I was suddenly acutely aware that I was standing rather close to Vincent and found
myself edging nervously away from him.
Um, sounds like youve got work to do Vincent, I heard myself saying as I hurried along to catch up with Olive.
It was so great to have you here today, lets do it again soon.
Hang on, Specs, Vincent called out behind me. Were heading this way too, we can walk with you.
Alexis gave a grunt of irritation. Seriously Vincent, what are you hanging out with these losers for? She looked
sarcastically at Olive. No offence.
I saw a tiny flash of anger cross Vincents face. I was pretty sure he was about to say something in our defence,
but Olive got to the punchline first. She walked determinedly up to Alexis, towering easily over her short frame.
EXCUSE ME Miss Mae, but would you kindly not refer to myself and my friends in such a derogatory manner. In
case you have forgotten, I am the head girl of the sixth form and if you want to play in the upcoming Battle Of The
Bands competition then I suggest you keep your mouth shut. I get the final say on the running order and I would
hate for you and Vincent to miss out because of your rudeness.
I honestly couldnt have loved Olive more at that moment. She was so fearless and perfect. She was the best
friend in the whole world. Mandy, Fritz and Neil were all staring at the scene too, victorious smiles creeping
across their faces. I guess Fritz was right, we really were like a family.
Alexis looked sulkily towards the ground, knowing that she didnt have a leg to stand on if she dared to argue
back. Vincent caught my eye behind her back and mouthed sorry to me with an exaggerated eye-roll. He was

obviously hoping I could see the funny side to this, but it was difficult to laugh when I knew that he was so close
with Alexis. Whenever I saw him around the school, she was usually tailing along right behind him. Plus they
were in a band together. Maybe they were even more than friends? I shuddered to even think about that
possibility. She seemed so mean, what did he possibly see in her? Then again, what did I really know about
Vincent? He was acting so nice to us all that it was easy to forget he had a pretty reckless side to him as well.
My wandering thoughts were interrupted by Alexis finally speaking out. So, have you listened to mine and
Vincents demo yet?! What did you think of it? Lay it on me Blondie!
Olive looked a little startled by this sudden turn of conversation. Alexis wasnt supposed to be getting excited
about her demo being listened to, she was supposed to be sucking up her telling off and feeling very ashamed of
herself!
Well, yes, I did get around to hearing it and it certainly sounded professional, Olive replied. However, an
unprofessional attitude during school hours is not going to do you any favours.
Oh, come on, I was just joking! Alexis cried. Weve been practising so much for this gig, we really need it!
At that point, Vincent intervened by putting his hands on Alexiss shoulders and steering her away from Olive and
the rest of us.
Alexis. Shut up. Come on, its time to go and leave this nice group of people to the rest of their day.
He turned to us all as he continued to pin Alexis to the spot. It was cool hanging out with you guys. Lets do it
again soon. See you later Olive, Neil, Fritz, Mandy. He gave me a smile and a cool little salute with two fingers.
Scotty. Oh God, that melting thing was happening to me again
He nudged into Alexis and the two of them made their own way down the corridor together. I could hear her
nagging at him and demanding an explanation for his sudden association with the school Geek Parade. He
totally blanked her as they walked off, ignoring her whining that was echoing all the way behind them both.
Fritz gave a small chuckle as they disappeared into the distance. Women. I am sorry Olive and Mandy, but
sometimes I just do not understand your species.
Youre telling me I muttered under my breath.
--It was drizzling slightly by the time Olive and I were outside and on our way home. We lived a few streets apart
from each other, so we always walked back together whenever we could. Olive had come prepared with a big
pink and purple umbrella, which she let me share with her. We huddled up side by side and chatted as we
walked. Well, I say chatted, but what I really mean is that Olive was having a rant.
URGH! That Alexis is such a rude cow. I really am tempted to disqualify her from Battle Of The Bands, that
would wipe the smug smile off her face. Shes the most obnoxious girl Ive ever met! No wait, actually Patricia is
still the number one in that department. But Alexis comes a bloody close second, I can tell you that! And its such
a shame because Vincent actually seems like quite a nice guy when she isnt around! I couldnt BELIEVE IT
when he turned up at the club Scotty, I thought I was dreaming! What the heck did you say to him to make him
want to come along?! He is nothing at all how I imagined he was going to be I guess all your stalking must be

paying off because he was your best buddy today! First talking to you in the hallway and then coming to D.A.C
Seriously, are we in the Twilight Zone or something?!
Every time I opened my mouth to answer one of Olives statements, she just carried on talking. In the end, I
simply stopped trying and let her keep going.
Did he actually give you any indication that he liked role playing games? Well, either way he was bloody good at
Dungeon Adventure! I guess hes found his newfound talent. Maybe hes sick of Alexis and wanted to try and
meet new people. That wouldnt surprise me, she seems soooo clingy! Who goes around the whole school
looking for someone like that? Talk about needy! I sort of thought it was all in your head that Vincent was being
friendly towards you, but it looks like he really, genuinely likes you. Do you still fancy him? I wouldnt get too
carried away, Im pretty sure hes straight Scotty. But hey, its pretty cool that he came to spend time with you,
right? You can still enjoy hanging out with him I just hope he wont suddenly snap and go crazy like he did
before. Do you reckon that was a one-off thing? I think hes got real problems underneath it all. You should be
wary Scotty Scotty! Are you even listening to me?
I looked at her with a deadpan expression. Oh, has Madam stopped for air?
Olive pulled the umbrella away from my head and shook it over me so the ice cold droplets landed all over my
dark curls. I squeaked in shock.
Hey, Im just telling you what I think! A lot happened this afternoon, dont you want to hear my opinion on it all?
I brushed the cold water out of my hair. I think everyone from here to Antarctica is going to hear your opinion
whether they like it or not.
Raaaa! Olive started beating me with the umbrella.
This was a very typical walk home with Olive, despite the fact it had been anything but a typical day.
--We chatted a bit more about everything as we got nearer to home. I did my best to downplay my crush on
Vincent, but the truth was that he was slowly invading my every thought. And I was so jealous of Alexis that I
could basically self-combust. I tried my best to push her out of my mind and just focus on all the good moments
of the day, such as Vincents leg resting against mine and his hands on my shoulders
I had to keep telling myself that these were all friendly gestures that didnt mean anything flirtatious from his end,
but it didnt stop the way I was feeling for him. The only other guy who had ever made me feel this way was
Taylor Raven and Vincent was just so, so different from Taylor Raven.
As we reached Olives house, a thought crossed my mind. Hey Ol, before I forget, did you actually listen to
Vincent and Alexiss band? What do they sound like?
Olive took down her umbrella and shook it out as we got to her front door. Its not really my sort of thing to be
honest, but I know theyll go down really well at the competition. Actually, hang on a second
She shot into her house and dashed upstairs while I waited in the doorway, trying to shelter myself from getting
rained on. I could hear the television blaring in the other room from where her little brother and sister must have

been watching a programme. Olive was the oldest of her siblings, which gave her great practice at being bossy at
home as well as at school.
After a while of waiting, she came scurrying back down the stairs with a CD case in her hands. Here you go, this
is their demo. I really shouldnt be lending this out, but you can borrow it if you absolutely promise to return it
tomorrow.
I took the CD from her hands. It was just an ordinary blank CD with The Night Birds scrawled messily on the
front in permanent marker. Olive tapped on the writing. Thats their band name by the way.
Cool, I said as I turned the case over in my hands. Ill check this out tonight and give it back to you when I next
see you.
I then said goodbye to Olive and hurried off down the street to get to my own house. She offered to go and get
me a spare umbrella, but I just held my coat over my head and ran for it. I couldnt hang around waiting. I had to
get back and listen to Vincents CD.
--A few hours later, my Mum knocked on my bedroom door. Scotty sweetheart, do you want a cup of tea? What
are you listening to up here?
I was lying down on my bed with my CD player blaring. There were three songs on Vincents demo and I had
been listening to them all on repeat for about an hour.
Oh, its my friends band, I answered. It made me feel warm inside to use the term friend and know it wasnt
exactly a lie.
What a racket! Mum laughed. I didnt think this was your kind of music.
In all honesty, I didnt think it would be my kind of music either before Id actually listened to it. It was very rock
and roll with lots of bass and electric guitar. There were drums too, which I assumed were recorded through a
computer. The whole CD sounded very professional, and although it was heavier than my normal choice of
music, it was catchy too. And Vincents voice I had no idea he sang, I thought it would just be Alexis singing. It
turned out that they both sang together and they sounded amazing. Particularly Vincents rich vocals, which rang
out powerfully over the music. I closed my eyes and listened to his lyrics as they wrapped around me like
beautiful poetry.
I dare you to kiss my bruises,
Trailing down my knees.
You can push me to the brink,
But youre never gonna break me.
It felt like he was singing about my life. I had never felt so connected to a song like this before. I just wanted to
listen to it all night long.

I turned to Mum. I didnt think I was going to like this, but it might just be my new favourite song!
She smiled at me. OK, just dont turn into a goth or a punk or something now. She gave a fake stage whisper
behind her hand. I dont think Olive could take it.
I laughed out loud. Mum, she was the one who gave me the CD in the first place!
Mum left my room muttering about how the world had gone upside down. It made me smile to see her joking
about again. She seemed much more back to her old self recently.
The CD came to the end again and I sat in silence for a bit, thinking over all of the days events.
Then I pressed repeat on my CD player. Just one more listen before bedtime

Chapter 14
Just Another Fun-Filled Friday
It was my first Friday back at college since Id been attacked by Taylor and the first time I was actually going to be
in the same lesson as him. We only had one period together during the week, our tutor group session first thing
on a Friday morning. Id skipped college the Friday before and I was very tempted to just bunk off the lesson
altogether. It was always a totally pointless class anyway. It usually revolved around upcoming uni applications or
boring school news updates, both topics that I was already well versed in thanks to Olive.
I dont think anyone would have noticed if I hadnt turned up, but I didnt want to give Taylor the satisfaction of
thinking he had scared me off. Not two weeks in a row at any rate. Perhaps it was Vincents song coursing
through my veins and making me feel brave, but I was ready to take on the world. Taylor could beat me up and
lock me in a cupboard, but he could never lock up my spirit!
I walked into my tutor room at 9am on the dot, holding my head high as I strode confidently over to my seat. As it
turned out, Taylor wasnt in the room yet, but his spiteful girlfriend Patricia was. Thats right, I had the joys of both
of them together to look forward to for the next hour. She gave me her usual look up and down as though I was a
piece of human dog poo walking into the room. I just ignored her and took my pen and notebook out of my
rucksack like I didnt have a care in the world. Luckily I was sitting a few tables away from her so I wasnt in too
close proximity to her haughty death stare.
As I was busying myself with arranging my desk, Taylor Raven came sauntering into the room. I gulped back an
alarmed hiccup. I thought I was ready to face him, but seeing him here in the flesh was more terrifying than I had
anticipated. I decided to keep my gaze fixed on my notepad as if I was writing down some very important ideas
that had suddenly just occurred to me. I felt the hatred burning off Taylors body as he stormed past my table,
purposefully pushing roughly against me as he passed by.
It was difficult to ignore him, but I gritted my teeth and kept looking straight ahead. Only one hour to get through. I
could do this. It sometimes made me sick to my stomach to think that this was the delightful creature Id shared
my first time with. I had been so young and stupid back then. Hed already taken the one thing from me I could
never get back, so what more could he take? Apart from my dignity, but evidently he had already taken that from
me too
The classroom hustle and bustle soon died down as our form tutor Ms. Springston came into the room. She was
a small, polite woman in her late thirties and was always a little bit too enthusiastic about the Friday morning
announcements.
Good morning, ladies and gentleman! How are we all today? Right, Ive got a few things to go through with you
all before a very exciting talk about tax returns!
We all groaned. This class always forced some boring talk upon us week after week, generally about something
grown up we had to learn how to do for ourselves once we had left college and joined the real world. Oh well, at
least it would keep my mind occupied on something other than Taylor and the fact he wanted to kill me.
Ms. Springston rattled off a list of school news from a new menu in the cafeteria to the date of the upcoming
Battle Of The Bands competition. Then she gestured toward the back of the classroom.
And now for some news regarding someone we all know and love Congratulations to Taylor Raven who just
won his latest match against the leading champion at Westdown College. Hes been representing Havensdale all

season and will be advancing on to the southern tennis finals in a few months. That means Mr. Raven is just one
step away from the national UK finals which could lead to full university sponsorship, as well as opportunities for
the next Olympics. Go on, stand up and take a bow then Taylor! Havensdale is so proud of you!
Taylor stood up and gave a jokey mock-bow as he thanked everyone in the room. The whole class burst into
applause for him. Some girls at the back were even cheering. Patricia looked like she was going to burst with
pride as she simpered lovingly next to him. This was too much! I begrudgingly gave a tiny clap to keep up
appearances, but I pressed my hands together so lightly that they barely made a sound. The whole school
seemed to be obsessed with Taylor Raven, but would they have loved him so much if they knew all the horrible
things he was capable of?
After what felt like about ten years of rapturous applause, Taylor finally sat down. Ms. Springston cleared her
throat and carried on with her news.
OK everyone, settle down. Yes, were all very proud of Taylor, congratulations again! Now one more thing, could
everyone please be vigilant about vandalism around the building. Last week we discovered that the P.E.
cupboard outside in the courtyard had its door broken off. Its difficult to determine if this was caused by a student
or just the bad weather weve been having recently, so no further action is being taken in this instance!
However, rest assured, we take vandalism very seriously and we want everyone to remain alert at all times.
Anyone caught damaging school property will be punished without question!
I cringed in my seat. The door that Vincent kicked in! I hoped my face didnt look guilty as all sin. At least he got
away with it, but that was a close call. It would have been all my fault if hed been in trouble and I couldnt have
protected him without revealing the truth. At least our college didnt have security cameras around every corner
like some other places did.
Once the news was over, Ms. Springston started a very boring Powerpoint presentation about tax returns. The
lights dimmed and we all started taking notes whilst she flicked through the slides. As I was writing down facts
and figures, I felt something hit me hard in the back of my head. It was a scrunched up piece of paper. No one
could really see me because it was dark in the room, so I leaned down to pick it up from the floor and flattened it
out on the table. No surprises about who it was from
So you managed to get out of the P.E. cupboard then? Didnt you like it in there Scotty? This is not over so
watch your back.
I felt a shiver run right down my spine. I tried to look behind me toward Taylor without being too noticeable. He
had his head down and was writing in his workbook like nothing was out of the ordinary. Patricia hadnt appeared
to have noticed anything either.
In a brave move that surprised even myself, I scrunched the note up again and threw it back at Taylor as hard as
I could. It hit him straight in the face. He flinched, but not enough for anyone around him to notice anything.
Ha! Two could play at this game! He was such a stupid child, it was pathetic.
Sure enough, another ball of paper hit me a few minutes later. This time it whacked me in the neck and it really
hurt. I thought about just leaving it on the floor, but curiosity got the better of me and I picked it up. The writing on
the page was an angry scrawl.
Do not test me Scotty. You will regret it.

This note actually scared me a little. I scrunched it back up into a ball and stuffed it into my pencil case to try and
hide it. I didnt want to go too far with my paper-throwing, because I had no idea what Taylor would do to me if I
made him too angry. Or rather, what he would do to the people I cared about. He had way too much power at the
college, he could probably get away with murder if he wanted to.
To my horror, Ms. Springston seemed to have noticed the commotion and was coming over to my table. Scotty,
is there a problem over here? Her eyes caught the note which was sticking halfway out of my pencil case. Is
there something youd like to share with the rest of the class? If youre swapping notes with someone then wed
certainly all like to hear what you've got to say!
Oh God no. This could not be happening to me! I just hoped Taylor was squirming as well, because it wouldnt
look too good on him if I read out his bullying rubbish. I nervously shuffled my work about a bit.
Err no, there's no note Ms. Springston. Sorry, I just got a bit energetic with writing down the presentation. I didnt
mean to disturb you!
There were a few snickers from a group of girls further down the table. This was so embarrassing. Ms.
Springston just rolled her eyes and carried on with her talk. I breathed a sigh of relief.
The rest of the lesson went by without incident. I tried to block Taylor out and focus on taxes, but my heart was
pounding with fear. I was back on his radar and I could tell that something horrible was on the horizon. Why
couldnt he just leave me alone?
As the lesson drew to a close, I tried to pack up quickly so I could get the hell out of the room before Taylor
passed by my desk. I wasnt quick enough and he and Patricia soon appeared directly beside me as they filed
out of the room. I decided to lay low and wait for them to leave first.
I had my arms resting on the table and all of a sudden there was a sharp jab on the back of my right hand. I
yelped out loud, but no one took any notice of me amidst the noisy chatter in the room. I caught sight of Taylor as
he left. He had a smirk on his face and was carrying a sharp-looking compass in between his knuckles. Patricia
was twittering on to him and hadnt noticed anything at all.
I looked at the blood trickling down my hand and the nasty little hole which was no doubt going to leave a scar.
Everyone had left the room now and Ms. Springston was busy at her desk, totally oblivious.
This was my own personal hell. And no one was noticing at all. In fact, no one would have noticed if Taylor had
stabbed me in the head and Id died on the table.
--Fridays were the easiest day of the week for me. I only had my tutor session, directly followed by double science.
Then I had an early finish, which was a great way to start my weekend. These were the perks of being in the sixth
form. We had our own individual schedules which didnt tie us into normal school hours.
Because of our clashing timetables, I barely saw Olive on a Friday. However, we always stopped for a five-minute
chat in between classes when we passed on the stairs as she was heading down to critical thinking and I was
heading up to science.
As I saw her on the staircase for our normal routine, I tried to keep my hand hidden behind my notebook which I
was now carrying around to help disguise my new injury. Id had some spare tissues in the bottom of my rucksack

to wrap around my hand as a makeshift bandage and I think the bleeding had finally stopped. It still hurt like hell
though.
Olive gave me a wave as I approached. We moved to the side of the stairs to avoid the stream of people heading
in both directions. Hey Scotty, can I have that CD back?
I fished in my bag with my non-injured hand. Here you go! Thanks for letting me borrow it.
No problem! Olive took the CD back and placed it carefully in her backpack. So what did you think of it? Are
you a total Vincent Hunter fanboy now?
I couldnt really deny it. Erm, well I wouldnt go that far, but I thought it was cool. Really cool.
Olive folded her arms. Uh huh. You are totally transparent Scotty. I bet you listened to it all night. I bet you copied
it onto your laptop and everything.
No I didnt! (I so totally did.)
She shook her head laughing. Look, Ive got to run because we have a mock exam today. But heres some
parting advice. You need to go and buy yourself a new pair of pants.
I gave her a confused look. Excuse me?!
So you can throw them on the stage at Battle Of The Bands when Vincent plays! She ran off down the stairs,
screaming like an over-excited fan. Ahhh Vincent! OH VINCENT! EEEEE!
People around were staring at her in amused confusion. I tried to creep upstairs without drawing any more
attention to myself. Who needed enemies like Taylor when I had a friend like the charming Olive?!
On the walk to the science block, I realised that my hand was bleeding through the tissue paper and was starting
to splot onto my notebook. It looked like I needed to top up my home-made bandage. I stopped outside the
nearest toilets, trying to unravel the roll of paper around my hand so I could throw it away and make a new one.
The male and female toilet doors were right next to each other and as I was sorting myself out, who should come
barging out of the ladies loo but Alexis Mae. She stopped dead as she saw me.
Oi, Ive been looking for you. I need a word.
At first I didnt realise she was even talking to me. I looked around for anyone else she could be addressing. She
scowled and grabbed me by the arm.
Yeah, Im talking to you four-eyes. Get in here.
She yanked me with all her might, practically knocking my notebook out of my hands. I didnt have much choice
but to give into her as she dragged me into the girls toilets.
I was now seriously wishing I had given into my morning fear and just stayed at home.

Chapter 15
Psycho Rants And Many Emojis
It had to be said, the girls toilets were so much nicer than the boys. They were a lot cleaner and less smelly, plus
they had nice big stalls and no questionable looking puddles all over the floor. The only problem was that I was
very much a boy, so it was beyond embarrassing being dragged into female-only territory against my will. A
couple of year 9 girls were stood chatting by the sinks and looked over in disgust at me.
Hey, you cant be in here! Get out you perv!
Alexis growled at the younger girls. YOU get out!
They exchanged worried looks with each other then filed out obediently without another word. I guess it was clear
who the alpha female was around these parts.
Alexis looked under the stalls to check no one else was in the room, then turned to face me. She caught sight of
my hand, which now had a trickle of blood running along the side of it.
Ew, what did you do to your hand?
I sighed and stomped to a stall to grab some toilet paper. That is a very long story, which I dont particularly want
to get into with you. I looped the paper around my wound, mopping up the blood around it. Taylor must have
stabbed me harder than I even realised because the bleeding just didnt seem to be stopping.
I held my hand up in the air with the paper pressed against it to stop the flow. Can you please just tell me
whatever it is you need to tell me, because I am currently bleeding to death and Im late for science.
Alexis continued to scowl at me. It was sort of strange. I had spent all night listening to her singing with Vincent
on their CD. She had a great voice actually. It made me feel like I kind of knew her. Perhaps thats why I felt so
outspoken around her. Or perhaps I was just faint from blood loss.
She crossed her arms in irritation. Look, Ive just got one thing to say to you Stay the fuck away from Vincent.
Her voice sounded menacing, but her threat was so ludicrous that I found myself laughing out loud. She
narrowed her eyes at me.
Im serious! Dont you dare laugh at me!
I kept on chuckling. You have got to be joking me, right? Is this all because he came to Dungeon Adventure
Club? Its not my fault he wanted to join in! What have I done thats so wrong?!
I really had no idea what was going on anymore. This girl was insane. I was standing in the middle of the ladies
loos with an insane girl. And a hand that was about to fall off. How had my day managed to deteriorate quite so
badly?
Someone tried to come in through the door and Alexis smacked it shut on them so they couldnt enter. This loo is
out of order, use another one!

The girl on the other side tutted then seemed to go away. Alexis stood with her back up against the door, eyeing
me evilly up and down. She was like a vicious little Yorkshire terrier about to sink her fangs into me.
This is ridiculous, I said angrily. Youre crazy and Im going to class.
She blocked my way, still up against the door. No, you listen to me! If you get too close to Vincent then Ill make
sure you regret it!
Now I really was laughing. Let me tell you something Alexis Ive had it up to here with people telling me what I
can and cant do, pushing me around and threatening me. Apparently Ill live to regret the majority of decisions I
make in my life, so Im pretty much beyond caring by now. I dont know what the hell your friendship with Vincent
is all about, but it doesnt mean I cant be friends with him too.
Alexis smacked her fist viciously against the door. I am not just friends with Vincent! We are so much more than
friends. SO much more. You dont understand him the way I do!
This statement rattled me a little. There were always rumours that Vincent and Alexis were a couple, but neither
of them had ever confirmed it. They didnt seem like they were more than friends. I had never seen them kiss or
treat each other like boyfriend and girlfriend. But I guess I didnt know for sure. They definitely made beautiful
music together, but did that mean they were dating? I really didnt want to think about it, as I was fairly sure that
my heart wouldnt be able to take it if that was the truth.
I literally dont understand what you want from me, I exclaimed as I attempted to push Alexis out of my way. Im
not going to apologise to you because Vincent decided to hang out with me at my club. Now will you please step
out of my way?
Finally, Alexis relented and stepped aside. As she did so, she put in her parting shot.
I know about you, Scotty. I know youre just the gay little geek who everyone picks on around here Boo fricking
hoo. Vincent might feel sorry for you, but that doesnt mean hes ever going to have feelings for you. Just get that
into your head.
I directed a furious look at her. Who are you, the emotion police?! I dont know why Vincent even bothers with
you!
Alexis gave an odious smirk. Because I know him in ways you will NEVER know him. He has been through
enough crap in his life Scotty. He doesnt need someone like you distracting him from all the hard work hes put in
to turn things around. He doesnt need all your baggage or your stupid little crush making him feel guilty! Were
actually getting somewhere with our music now and youre just ruining things and fucking everything up! So
just fuck off!
She was now practically screaming at me and breathing heavily. I couldnt fathom where this was all coming
from. As much as I wanted to reply with a string of obscenities back at her, I decided to take the moral high
ground.
Goodbye Alexis. You have a great afternoon now.
I marched out of the girls toilets without so much as a single look behind me and stamped off to my classroom.

There was an entire two and a half hour lesson on advanced physics ahead of me. I immersed myself in work,
but I could still hear some of Alexiss words ringing in my ears.
doesnt mean hes ever going to have feelings for you I know him in ways you will NEVER know him
I shouldnt have let such a silly, immature little girl get into my head, but I couldnt help it.
--When the afternoon eventually came to an end, it was such a relief to be back at home. I went upstairs to my
room and dug a proper plaster out of my drawer to put on my injury. It had finally stopped bleeding now, but it still
looked pretty nasty.
What the hell was going on with my life?! Now I didnt just have Taylor to deal with, but Alexis too! Part of me
wondered if I should tell Vincent about her little outburst the next time I saw him. It was difficult to know what their
relationship actually was though. What if he took her side? Or if he told me something I didnt want to hear.
I fired up my laptop and put his song on again. It was good to hear his voice. Not so good to hear Alexiss voice,
but it wasnt as if I could erase her from the recording. I couldnt erase her from his life either. She was obviously
close to him and there was nothing I could do about that. But just how close were they?
Burning curiosity got the better of me and I found myself logging into Facebook. I wasnt really a great Facebook
user in all honesty. I tended to use it mostly for online games and catching up with other peoples news. Once it
had loaded up, I typed Vincent Hunter into the search bar.
He came up in the results with a profile picture of him sitting outside. He looked stunning. It made me go weak in
the knees just seeing the tiny thumbnail version of his face alone.
I clicked on his profile to see if there was any more information, but aside from his birthday and school year, there
was nothing. It didnt say he was in a relationship, but it didnt say he was single either. I looked up Alexis too, but
her profile was set to private. There was an annoying picture of her making a goofy face at the camera whilst out
at a bar somewhere. I wondered if other people at our school found her as obnoxious as I did or whether they
just thought she was cute and spirited. She was definitely pretty. Annoyingly pretty.
I thought about adding Vincent as a friend, but I didnt want to look desperate. I really hoped that Alexis had just
been spewing jealous rubbish in the toilets earlier because it would kill me if Vincent thought I was some total
loser who had an obvious crush on him. A crush he could never return. Oh God, I just needed to stop thinking
about the whole thing!
Before I logged off, I checked to see if there was a band page for The Night Birds. Sure enough, I found one
straight away, so I decided to become a fan of the page. There were some nice professional photos of Vincent
and Alexis playing live, as well as the songs from their demo CD on a virtual music player.
Without thinking too much about what I was doing, I typed up a little message on the wall of their fanpage.
Hi Vincent I hope you dont mind, but I checked out your bands songs after Olive told me about your demo for
Battle Of The Bands. They are so brilliant and have really blown me away. I especially love the track Bruises,
the lyrics really stood out to me. I cant wait to hear them live sometime. Anyway, just thought Id let you know. All
the best, Scotty

I checked it for any obvious errors then hit send. It gave me a little thrill to know that Vincent would see it and
Alexis too, ha ha!
--At around 8pm, I was upstairs on my laptop again, this time playing virtual Scrabble with Olive. We had a chatbox
on the side of the game and I decided to tell her about my little incident with Alexis. I typed up most of what had
happened and then the chatbox started dinging like crazy.
Ollywally: NO WAY.
Ollywally: She did WHAT?!
Ollywally: Is there no end to this girls psycho-ness?!
Ollywally: Are you OK???
Ollywally: SCOTTTYYYYYYY!!!
Yes. Olive typed the same way she talked. Incessantly.
Beam Me Up Scotty: Yes Im fine! It was just so weird Why would she be so jealous anyway?
Ollywally: Because youre stealing her precious VinceyWincey away Maybe its killing her because he really
LIIIIIKESSSS you after all ?!!!!!
This was followed by a million heart and kiss emojis.
Beam Me Up Scotty: Or maybe Vincent has told her what a freak I am and shes trying to scare me off because
hes too polite to say anything
Ollywally: Hmm. Maybe.
Beam Me Up Scotty: OLIVE, DONT SAY THAT!
Ollywally: Well I was always 90% sure he was straight. But now Im like 75% sure which means better news for
you. Although wait, Im like 85% sure him and Alexis have done it. So now I just dont know, can you work out the
maths for me maths guy??
Beam Me Up Scotty: Haha oh my sides. You think youre so hilarious. Good to know this is just MY LIFE were
joking about here.
Ollywally: I hate to break this to you Scotty but your life is A MESS!!!!
Oh, she didnt need to tell me that. My throbbing hand was enough proof that my life was slowly becoming a
complete shambles. As I thought about what witty retort I could type in reply, there was a clonky noise coming
from the other window. I clicked onto my Facebook page.
Vincent Hunter has requested to be your friend

I gasped out loud. Was this a beautiful dream?! I wondered if perhaps it was some kind of cruel trick, but sure
enough the request was from the very same profile picture I had been swooning over just a few hours earlier.
I clicked accept and within a minute, I had a message pop up.
Yo Specs. Thanks for checking out my music, Im glad you liked it. I hope you can make it to the show in a few
weeks. See you round soon. V.
I gasped out loud for a second time. He had really messaged me! He had even asked me to go to his show! I
was on top of the world! Take THAT Alexis Mae!
Beam Me Up Scotty: O. M. G. Olly you are not going to believe who just added me on Facebook
Ollywally: Its not Alexis is it?? Is she going to give you another psycho rant online too??!
I grinned to myself as I copied and pasted Vincents message into the chatbox.
Ollywally: !!!!!!!!!!!
I was then flooded with so many emojis from her that it almost crashed my computer.

Chapter 16
Brief Encounters And Hateful Notes
Over the next few weeks, the crazy mess of my life actually started to calm down a little bit. I went to lessons, I
gossiped with Olive (she was still astounded by Alexiss outburst and spent every waking moment trying to work
out Vincents true intentions). I went to Dungeon Adventure Club and although Vincent didnt turn up again, we all
still had a great time.
Taylor Raven appeared to have temporarily stopped his terrorising of me. I didnt even see him in my tutor
session, because he was training for his next big match. I guess he was far too busy to think of new ways to
torture me. I knew it probably wouldnt last long, but it was nice to finally relax and just take notes in class without
worrying about being harassed or attacked in some way.
As for Alexis, on the rare occasion I saw her around the building she gave me an evil death glare, but she didnt
confront me with anymore psycho rants. I had come to the conclusion that perhaps she had a crush on Vincent
that had never been requited, so she was taking it out on me. I wasnt going to let her nasty words get to me,
especially now I knew Vincent was definitely reaching out to be friends with me. Thinking about the message he
left me on Facebook was still enough to make me smile out loud and I couldnt wait for Battle Of The Bands. I
was definitely going to be there now so I could see him play with my own eyes. Especially after he personally
invited me.
I hadnt really spoken much with Vincent since he added me on Facebook. He wasnt particularly active on there
and I didnt want to look like some kind of stalker by sending him too many messages. To my disappointment, I
didnt see much of him around the college either. He was the year above me and we had very different time
schedules. However, I managed to have three small encounters with him over the space of the fortnight and I
remembered them all vividly in the way only someone with an all-consuming crush on another person can
ENCOUNTER 1 (Wednesday, Afternoon, In The Reception Foyer):
We happened to walk past each other. I was with Olive and Vincent had a grumpy Alexis on his tail. As he passed
me by, he held out his hand to me for a high five. I obliged. He walked off without another word and I avoided
washing my hand for the rest of the day.
ENCOUNTER 2 (The Following Monday, Morning, The College Carpark):
I was running a bit late and was hurrying through the student carpark to try and get to lessons on time. Vincent
was driving around the area in a big, black car, trying to find a space. He rolled down his window as he caught
sight of me and started honking the horn. It startled me at first, but I smiled when I saw him behind the steering
wheel. He had rock music blasting from the inside but turned it down to call out to me.
Oi Specs! Hurry up, its way past nine!
I gave a small laugh. I know, Im late! Whats your excuse then?
He smirked. Im Vincent Hunter, Im always fashionably late. He started honking the horn again. Come on,
chop chop! Good boys arent late for class.
I jokingly gave him a rude hand gesture as I scurried off and I heard him laughing a lot from inside the car.

ENCOUNTER 3 (Thursday, Morning, Vincents Favourite Tree In The Courtyard):

As I was heading to lessons on Thursday, I heard Vincents mellow guitar picking from across the courtyard, so I
wandered over to say a quick hello.
Hey, dont you have classes?
He looked up at me with a lazy smile as he carried on strumming. Nah, not until this afternoon. But I thought Id
get some practice in. I prefer playing here than at home.
Arent you cold? I asked. There was a bit of a chill in the air, although it wasnt raining for once.
Not really, he answered with a shrug. He strummed a few more notes then looked up at me. You still coming to
Battle Of The Bands?
My heart thrummed excitedly. Of course I am!
Vincent smiled again. Cool. I want to know what you think of the set. Youve got to be honest.
Im sure it will be great, I said. But Ill tell you if you suck.
I couldnt believe I was standing here teasing Vincent Hunter. If someone had told me this situation would be
happening a few years ago I would never have believed them.
Alexis has been on my case for weeks, Vincent replied with a laugh. So if we suck its not through lack of
practice.
I felt inexplicably annoyed when Vincent mentioned Alexiss name. I didnt want to think about the two of them
together, which was a bit ridiculous considering she was in the same band as him. I tried not to let my dislike of
her show.
Dont you guys get a place in another showcase if you win? A subtle change of topic, which included Alexis
without directly mentioning her. Score.
Yeah, it will be great if we can win, Vincent replied. Wed get to play the official showcase night in front of some
big A&R people. It could be a real step up for us in the music industry. Which is perfect because if Im not playing
music, I have no idea what the fuck else to do with my life.
He laughed in a self-deprecating way. I wasnt sure what to say in reply. I guess I never thought about what
Vincents plans were after college. I didnt like the thought of us suddenly parting ways, not now I was just getting
to know him.
Hey Specs, he announced abruptly. Youre going to be late for lessons AGAIN. What are you now, some kind
of troublemaker?
I checked my watch. Oh crap, youre right. I better run!
If I had been a different sort of person I would have stayed out there chatting to Vincent for longer, but I really
didnt want to miss anything important in class. I was determined to pass all of my exams with flying colours later

in the year. Not even Taylors evilness had distracted me thus far, so I couldnt let my silly crush get in the way
either. My silly crush which was quickly spiralling out of all control and dear God I hope Vincent didnt realise how
much I really, really, REALLY liked him
He started singing in a stupid voice as I made my way back to reception.
Oh Scotty, Scotty He thinks hes such a bad boy but hes really notty, notty hes Ms. Springstons favourite
tooooyyyy!
Must. Not. Be. Distracted... I muttered under my breath as it took all my willpower not to turn back and skip
class altogether.
--As lovely as my encounters with Vincent were, it wasnt long before college life started going back downhill. The
following week, Taylors hate notes started up again. He had won the next important match in his tennis
competition and all eyes in the school were on him. He was Havendales own personal hero. And he was the
cause of my own personal hell.
I guess he found his little note trick to be an effective way of harassing me without drawing too much attention to
himself. It wasnt long before I was being bombarded with them constantly. The first one found its way into my
bag while I was walking around the building. I didnt even realise it was there until I sat down for German to
unpack my things. It was lying ominously on the top of my pencil case and I unravelled it secretly under the table.
Hows your hand Scotty? Did I leave a mark? I think its about time I gave you a matching pair.
My whole body jolted as the words sunk in. I had no idea how Taylor had got this note into my bag and now I felt
terrified. I thought he had backed down now he had his tennis matches to train for, but I guess he had to keep me
good and afraid. It was working. The compass stab in my hand had more or less healed over now, but it still felt
sore. If you looked really closely, you could clearly see where the tip had punctured my skin. I definitely did not
want a repeat injury on my other hand.
I screwed the threatening note back up and threw it in the bin, determined to try my best to ignore it. Then the
next note came later in the afternoon as a special delivery from Billy Baker, the sneeriest of the two Brainless
Baker Boys. He charged up to me as I was studying in the library and slapped a folded up piece of paper in front
of me.
Taylor said hes sorry he couldnt be here in person, but hes looking forward to seeing you again soon.
I looked up from my work, slightly confused as to what was going on. Sorry, what?
I got no reply. Billys shaved head was already bobbing away from me to the library exit. The note he had left was
glaring angrily in front of me on the table and I opened it with shaking fingers.
Whats short, dorky and covered in bruises? Scotty Williams.
I felt the room spinning around me. It was all I could do not to faint. I knew the notes were childish and only
written to try and intimidate me. Its not like Taylor was going to get another opportunity to beat me up, I wasnt
going to let it happen again. My head was telling me to remain calm, these were just empty threats. But the rest

of my body wasnt reacting quite so calmly. Its pretty horrible to have vile things written about you and I knew
how sly Taylor could be at finding secret little ways to get to me.
More notes kept popping up throughout the rest of the week and irritatingly I never once caught Taylor in the act. I
think thats what made the whole thing even scarier. It was like his minions were everywhere, just waiting to strike
me down at any moment.
Vicious scrawls turned up in my bag, on my desk, in my books It was always during the times when I was alone
and the notes always said the same kind of things.
Are you watching your back? You should be.
Ive got eyes and ears everywhere. Dont forget that.
Poor Scotty, dont you like these notes? You know I can do much, much worse.
Maybe The Brainless Baker Boys didnt know the hidden messages behind what they were delivering to me, but I
got them loud and clear. I needed to keep my mouth shut about my history with Taylor. I guessed that his current
rise to fame as the schools special little tennis star had made him especially jumpy about the truth coming out. It
was actually pathetic that he was so ashamed of his own sexuality that it had driven him to this. I should have
pitied him and laughed off his stupid bullying. But it was getting through to me. I couldnt sleep properly. I certainly
couldnt tell Olive about it. I just didnt know what to do but try and carry on as normal.
On Thursday between lessons came another special delivery. This one was actually stuck onto my back as I was
in a crowded corridor. I didnt know if it was Billy, Bobby, Patricia or even Taylor himself who had done it. I didnt
even realise it was stuck to me until a few minutes later when I was out of the crowd. I noticed it dangling from
my back and pulled it off in frantic confusion.
Now I thought I told you to watch your back Scotty. Youre not doing a very good job. One wrong move and youll
be sorry. Rest assured, I can ruin you.
My whole body was shaking as I read the words. Perhaps it was the fact that this one had been physically
attached to me, but I felt sicker than I had after reading any of the other awful messages. Not just sick, I felt
assaulted. My chest started to tighten and my breath caught in my throat.
I heard a year 8 girl speak to me from across the hallway. Hey, are you OK over there?
Her voice was phasing in and out. I put a hand to the nearest wall to try and support myself. I was having some
kind of panic attack and I just couldnt get any air in. The girl spoke again, this time louder.
Someone, please help! Theres a sixth former who cant breathe!
I slumped against the wall, the note falling from my hand. People started to crowd around me, but everything was
fading to black.
As I closed my eyes, my lungs bursting with pain, I heard a familiar voice through the haze.
Scotty? SCOTTY!

Everything was fading around me. I was about to pass out, which was terrifying because I was fairly certain I
would choke to death if that happened.
GET OUT OF MY WAY. THATS MY FRIEND, MOVE!
The crowds parted. And there he was, like a shining beacon in a room of darkness.
Vi..Vi..Vinc, I could barely get the words out.
He crouched down close to me and put a warm, strong arm around my shoulders.
Its OK, Im here. Just breathe.

Chapter 17
Not So Untouchable Now
Slowly but surely, the air began returning to my lungs. The world came back into focus and I could suddenly see
the many faces of random students gathered around me. I had obviously caused a bit of a scene and I heard a
collective sigh of relief as I started to come around.
Oh phew, hes OK!
Hey, isnt that the head girls best friend? Someone has to tell her!
I blinked a few times, trying to make sense of all the commotion. Someone was rubbing my back in soothing,
circular motions, which was really helping. I lifted my head up to see Vincent Hunter looking back at me with
concerned eyes.
Hey Scotty, you alright now?
He was the one touching my back and it was like he was pouring my life-force back into me.
Yyeah I think so. I dont know what happened
Vincent held my gaze, checking every inch of my face for any more signs of imminent fainting. OK, do you think
you can stand up? Ill take you to the welfare office.
I nodded feebly, my energy totally drained. Vincent stood up and turned to the crowd who were still surrounding
us.
Hes OK, Im taking him to welfare. Now move out the way!
There was no arguing with Vincent Hunter. The crowd scattered hastily, murmuring amongst themselves about
witnessing such an unusual turn of events. I guess nobody would have expected Vincent to be the one to help a
little nerd like me in my hour of need.
He put an arm around me and helped me up from the ground, taking my weight easily onto his shoulder. You
can lean on me if you need to. Dont push yourself too much.
I still felt a little shaky, so it was good to have him supporting me in case I fell over again. As we made to leave, I
realised that my bag was still on the floor behind me and I reached out to pick it up.
Ill get that, Vincent said firmly. He bent down and grabbed my bag, my notebook that had fallen on the floor in
my panic, and oh no. The note. Taylors note. I had dropped it before Id had my attack and now it was lying on
the floor next to the rest of my stuff.
I couldnt let Vincent see it. I flailed my arm out in a pathetic attempt to take it back. Its OK Vincent, Ive got it

Specs, let me help you, Vincent chastised. He was holding onto the note, along with my other things, in his left
hand and supporting me with his right. There was nothing I could do about it so I just gave into his grip and let
him walk me to the welfare office.
--I was sitting on the bed in welfare and drinking a glass of water when Olive came bursting into the room.
Scotty! I just heard what happened, are you OK? Oh my God, I cant believe this!
She threw herself into my arms, almost knocking my water right over. I hugged her tightly back.
Yeah, Im OK now. It was just a stupid panic attack.
What happened? Its not like you to get into a panic like that! I was so worried when I heard about it, someone
told me you collapsed!
I broke off from her long hug. I did collapse... Luckily Vincent was there to come to my rescue.
I nodded shyly toward Vincent, who was still in the room. He was standing by the window looking out to the
courtyard and was still holding my things for me. He had Taylors note in his hand and I was praying that he
hadnt looked at it. Hed had every chance to read it when the school nurse had been checking up on me.
Olive walked over to him. Oh Vincent, thank you so much. Everyone has been talking about what a hero you
are. You saved the day!
Vincent gave a polite smile back, but it didnt quite reach his eyes. It was nothing.
No it wasnt! Olive exclaimed. I dont think anyone else around here would have been so pro-active. You totally
calmed Scotty down by the sounds of it and then you got him here. It was not nothing at all! She then turned to
me. Scotty, what on earth set you off like that?
I really didnt know what to say so I gave a small shrug and took another anxious sip of my water. Olive sat next
to me and rubbed my arm. Is it Taylor? Is he bothering you again? Please just tell me.
Olive had whispered it to me, but I found myself looking over to Vincent to see if he had heard. He was just
staring out of the window and staying disconcertingly silent. It was making me nervous. Did he know about
Taylor?
I dont know why it happened, I lied. I think Ive just been stressed out with everything lately. It was a busy
hallway and I dont know, the crowdedness just set me off out of the blue. I think I probably just need some
rest.
The school nurse came into the room at this point, catching the end of our conversation. She put a hand over my
forehead. I think your temperature is back to normal now Scotty. Panic attacks can be caused by a whole
manner of things, but it could very likely be stress induced. If youre feeling pressured by anything at the
moment your workload, school life in general perhaps you should talk to your form tutor about it?

I really couldnt imagine having a heart to heart with Ms. Springston about my life. Yes Miss, I shagged the school
tennis star and now hes threatening me in case I tell anyone about it. Oh, and I have a massive crush on the
toughest guy in school and Im not sure if he even likes boys at all. Oh yeah, and his best friend definitely wants
to kill me too. Can you recommend any good advice Miss?
Yes, Ill have to talk to her, I said obediently. The nurse gave a satisfied smile then looked between Olive and
Vincent.
OK guys, your friend is doing much better now so I suggest you go back to your lessons. Ill make sure hes fit
and healthy before sending him back out.
Oh, Scotty! Olive cried, hugging me again. Are you going to ring your Mum to come and get you? Or do you
want to walk back with me after lessons? Ill cancel D.A.C. tonight and try and get away early.
As I was about to respond, something totally bizarre happened. Vincent, who had been staring silently out of the
window all this time, suddenly went charging out of the room. He barged straight past the nurse who called out in
alarm after him, then he broke into a furious run down the corridor. My bag and notebook that he had been
holding were both left abandoned at the side of the room but Taylors note had disappeared. My heart started
to race. Had he seen it? What was going on?
Olive looked positively horrified. Whats wrong with him? Where is he going?!
The nurse was looking fiercely at me for some kind of explanation as well. I held up my hands in total confusion.
II dont know
Vincent had seemed thoroughly fired up when he ran off. It happened so fast that I couldnt piece it together. He
had been looking out of the window for ages, but there couldnt have been anything that exciting out there
(unless you counted the school cleaners wiping the window down). It only overlooked the courtyard, and
The tennis court, I gasped out loud. Olive looked at me with a curious expression. I think I knew who Vincent
was looking for and now I was definitely feeling faint all over again.
I carefully pulled myself up off the bed and headed to the window. Sure enough, there he was. Taylor Raven. Out
on the court and in the middle of a P.E. lesson. He was rallying back and forward with another student I didnt
recognise, totally immersed in his game.
Olive stood next to me by the window. What about the tennis court? What was Vincent looking at out there?
As if in answer to her question, we heard a loud, thunderous bellow outside the window. The tennis court was a
little way away from the welfare office, but every word rang through to us as clear as day.
OI. RAVEN. RAVEN!
Vincent was sprinting toward the court with the strength and speed of a cheetah. I could see the tip of Taylors
note sticking out of the back pocket of his jeans. I literally felt sick to my stomach.
What the heck is he doing?! Olive exclaimed, pushing me out of the way to get a closer look. The nurse came
over too so that she could see what was happening. I stood between the two of them, staring in dumbfounded
horror. Olive opened the window and we could hear the whole scene unravelling as though we were stood in the
courtyard ourselves.

Taylor stopped his rally and from what I could see he was looking toward Vincent. He seemed annoyed about this
sudden interruption to his game. I think anyone else in the school would have been terrified to see Vincent Hunter
running toward them shouting, but Taylor showed no sign of fear.
Are you talking to me? he shouted through the court fencing.
Youre damn right Im talking to you! Vincent shouted back. With that, he went careering into the court and
made a beeline straight for Taylor. The P.E. teacher Mr. Ecclesfield was yelling at Vincent to get out of his lesson,
but Vincent totally ignored him and squared up to my arch enemy.
You think youre so untouchable dont you? Vincent growled right into Taylors face. Youre nothing but a
pathetic little bully who doesnt know when to shut up.
All of the other students in the class were now gaping in terror. Even Mr. Ecclesfield was too scared to intervene.
Taylor, however, laughed in Vincents face.
I dont know what this is about Hunter, but youre ruining my game. Kindly get the hell out of my lesson.
Vincent grabbed the collar of Taylors white polo shirt. You know exactly what this is about and Im telling you to
stop it if you know whats good for you.
Taylor appeared to be a little scared now, but he continued to hold his nerve. Let me remind you Vincent, its my
father who helps fund this school. If you dare touch me, Ill make sure youre dumped out of here, along with the
rest of the shit.
I didnt need to see his face to hear the wicked glint that must have been in Taylors eye. By shit, he obviously
meant me. One wrong move and he would make sure that wed all pay for it. I prayed with all my might that
Vincent would do the sensible thing and just leave well alone.
Next to me, Olive brought her hands up to her mouth. Oh my God, what is he doing?!
Apparently Vincent and sensible were not two words that belonged together. He was now dragging Taylor along
forcefully by the scruff of his neck. Mr. Ecclesfield was apoplectic with rage, screaming at the two boys to stop
fighting. The other students made unconvincing attempts to mediate, but Vincent stormed through them all,
pulling Taylor outside of the court.
You just love humiliating people dont you Raven? Vincent was shouting. Maybe its time you got a taste of your
own fucking medicine!
He threw Taylor onto the grassy ground, letting him land with a painful sounding thump. Now Taylor looked
terrified. He tried to scrabble back up, but Vincent held him down with his foot. Taylor was strong and athletic, but
Vincent was much taller and stronger.
The only shit around here is you, Vincent continued. And if you fuck with people I care about again then YOU
WILL FUCKING REGRET IT.
It just so happened that there was a mop and bucket on the outskirts of the courtyard that the cleaners had left
whilst they had been round cleaning the windows. These were often left around the area and I dont know if
Vincent realised this or not, because what happened next seemed a little too well-planned. He went striding over
to the bucket, picked it up and threw the contents of stale water all over Taylor, drenching him from head to toe.

The whole of the courtyard gasped, even people who werent in the P.E. lesson and were just eating their lunch
on the grass. Taylor looked stunned. He sat there in a daze without a single cocky remark to defend himself in
any way.
Mr. Ecclesfield came charging over. MR. HUNTER. HEADMISTRESSS OFFICE. NOW.
Vincent said nothing. He kicked the empty mop bucket at full force toward Taylor before reluctantly following the
completely furious Mr. Ecclesfield inside the school building.
Taylor remained on the ground in a state of shock, mucky water dripping down his face. His tennis partner
tentatively approached him to help him up, but nobody was exactly rushing to his aid.
Back in the welfare office, Olive looked to me in total disbelief. Scotty What the hell just happened? The nurse
was also looking at me with an alarmed expression for some kind of answer.
I had absolutely no idea what to say to them.
I dont feel too good. I think I need to sit down again.

Chapter 18
Punishment
I was lying in bed and playing my Gameguy, when I heard the doorbell ring from downstairs. I knew it was going
to be Olive and I still had no idea what to say to her.
After the mop water incident, I had gone very faint again and the nurse had ordered me to stay in welfare and
rest until my Mum finished work and could pick me up. Id spent the rest of the afternoon up in my room, playing
Munchy Monsters to try and distract myself from my own buzzing thoughts.
What the hell had Vincent been thinking?! He was going to get in so much trouble and it was all my fault. He had
definitely read Taylors note and thats what caused him to explode. Part of me was furious that he had been so
recklessly stupid and violent. The other part of me felt a rush of gratitude for someone finally standing up for me.
Its not like Taylor didnt deserve a little roughing up after all the hell he had been putting me through. It was
nothing compared to a compass stab or a week of endless threatening. And what was it that Vincent had yelled at
him? About not messing with people he cared about Did he care about me?! The mere thought made me so
dizzyingly happy that it wracked me with guilt. I should not have been feeling happy about the situation in the
slightest
There was a knock at my bedroom door. Scotty darling, are you awake? Olive has come to see you.
Yeah Mum, I called. Come on in, Ol.
Perhaps I should have said nothing and pretended to be asleep. But if I put it off now, Id only have to face her
later.
Olive came in softly and sat on the end of my bed. Hey. Are you feeling any better?
I put down my Gameguy and nodded. Yeah, loads better thanks.
Good, Olive replied. Then you can tell me what the hell that was all about earlier. Please say that Vincent
attacking Taylor had nothing to do with you.
Erm, Im not sure, I replied hesitantly. It might have been...
Olive put her head in her hands. Scotty, what did you say to him? It was like he was bloody possessed!
Nothing! I exclaimed. I mean, well I did mention to him about Taylors bullying, just in passing. That was
weeks ago though. I told him that he was causing a bit of trouble for me. I guess when he saw me having a panic
attack he assumed it was something to do with Taylor and he just snapped.
OK, that story was a slightly edited variation of the real truth, but it would have to do. I could not let Olive know
about Taylors notes because she would insist I report them. Then Taylor would deny it all, be let off and he would
make things so much worse for me. And she would just be dragged into the entire mess too. I couldnt let it
happen.

Are you sure that panic attack had nothing to do with Taylor? Olive queried. I dont understand what set you off.
It cant have been over nothing!
Well, it was over nothing, I insisted. I mean, not nothing but just a build-up of things. Ive had that stupid Alexis
on my case, Ive had loads of coursework to do and I suppose Taylor possibly had a bit to do with it too. You
know hes always just a jerk in general.
I thought hed stopped with his stupid little stunts, Olive said. Is he starting up again?
No! I lied. I just mean his attitude in general and all the stuff he did before. Hes busy being the school hero at
the moment, so hes forgotten all about torturing me for now.
Olive stood up and started pacing around my room. So why did Vincent react the way he did?
I gave a small shrug. I dont know. I think he just jumped to conclusions. Hes always had that hot temper.
Olive sighed and flopped back down on my bed again. Well, he is in serious trouble Scotty, whatever his
reasoning was. Im sure he was just trying to stick up for you, but that is not the way to go about it. Hes
suspended for the next two weeks.
I felt my stomach churn. Oh God
Yeah, and it gets worse, Olive continued. He and Alexis are also being disqualified from the Battle Of The
Bands competition.
I let out a squeak of horror. No! They cant be!
I tried to overrule the decision, but there was nothing I could do about it. Mrs. Patricks was adamant that he be
sufficiently punished and sent the message to me straight away.
I couldnt believe this. Vincent was so excited for that competition and it might have even helped him get some
great music contacts. Not to mention, I wanted to see him play so badly. I tried pleading with Olive.
Olly there has to be something you can do. He has to play that competition! Youve got to be able to persuade
Mrs. Patricks otherwise, shell listen to you!
Olive gave an annoyed tut. Scotty, you cant just go barging into someones lesson to physically assault them!
There has to be consequences!
I gave her massive puppy-dog eyes and she softened. Look, Ill see what I can do. Like I said, I did try. But
maybe once Mrs. Patricks calms down she might change her mind. Maybe you can come with me to see her
tomorrow?
Mrs. Patricks was pretty fearsome and scary as Headmistresses went. I did not like the thought of going into her
office to try and talk to her, but maybe if I was there too it would help Olives case.
Yes, Ill be there.
OK, I can probably set something up for the afternoon. Youll have to hang about in your free period though.

Thats fine, I said. I have to try and help Vincent, especially after he was only trying to help me.
Olive gave a tiny little smile. Yeah, he was your knight in shining armour wasnt he? Even if dopey Taylor hadnt
even done anything.
I smiled back. You have to admit, it was pretty funny seeing him covered with mop water.
Oh my God, Olive squealed. It was AMAZING!
We both giggled. Olive was a stickler for people following the rules, but she always loved a good bit of karma.
Taylor had definitely got what was coming to him. I just hoped that I was now in the clear about the whole note
business. Vincents unpredictable reputation was the only thing really holding my story together, but it was a
plausible enough explanation given his past track record.
To my surprise, Olive then said the words I never thought I would hear her say. Maybe Vincent really does like
you Scotty.
I gulped. Y...you think so?
I dont know for sure, Olive replied. That guy is like a mystery wrapped in an enigma wrapped in another
mystery. But he seemed very passionate out there when he was defending your honour.
I blushed like crazy. I guess
Then there was the whole Facebook message. He definitely seems to have taken a real liking to you. But who
knows what goes on in that guys head. Just tread carefully, OK?
Come on Olly, I said, looking directly at her. Its not like Im in love with the guy, its just a little crush. Im not
like, getting my hopes up that anything is actually going to happen.
Olive gave a rather unconvincing nod. Uhhuh
Oh, who was I kidding? I wasnt fooling Olive here and I definitely wasnt fooling myself.
--Later on in the evening, I sat poised at my laptop keyboard. Facebook was open in my browser window and I
was ridiculously close to sending a message to Vincent. I just didnt know what to say. There was so much I
wanted to try and communicate with him... Why did he have to do something so crazy? Did he forgive me for
getting him involved in my stupid drama? Did he know yet that he was disqualified from the Battle Of The Bands?
That I was going to do everything I could to change the Headmistresss decision? Did he even realise the feelings
I was having for him? Did he feel any of them for me...?
I gave a hefty sigh and typed into the message box.
Please dont tell anyone about the note.
I clicked send.

--On Friday afternoon, I decided to spend my post-class free period in the library as I waited for Olive. I grabbed a
free computer and spent my time flicking windows between actual work and Facebook. I hadnt heard a thing
back from Vincent and it was driving me crazy. I had no other way to contact him and I just wanted to talk about
everything that had happened. He had been suspended for two whole weeks, so if he didnt reply to me then I
would be waiting a long time to finally speak with him in person. Maybe he didnt want to talk to me at all.
I had been replaying his little moment with Taylor in my head ever since it happened. I knew it was wrong, but just
thinking about it made me happy. Today had been the first day in ages where I hadnt been harassed in any way.
In fact, Taylor hadnt even had the guts to turn up to school at all. He had been noticeably absent from my
morning tutor session and everyone in the class had been gossiping as to why. His humiliating fall from grace
was all that anyone could talk about and had spread around the school like wildfire. I was glad. Hed had it
coming to him for far too long. He should have felt lucky that it was just a bucket of water and not any of the nasty
tricks he liked to play on me.
I glanced at the time in the corner of my computer screen. I had a whole hour to go until Olive finished her
lesson. This was excruciating. I kept going over in my head what I was going to say to Mrs. Patricks. I had no
idea if I would be able to make an ounce of difference to the outcome of the fight, but I had to at least try.
As the time ticked on, I felt someones presence looming over me. A dark shadow crept ominously across my
computer screen and I knew who it belonged to before I even turned to look.
I swivelled around in my chair and sure enough, there was Alexis. She stood over me with a face like thunder, her
fists clenched furiously by her sides.
I guessed that she must have heard the news then

Chapter 19
Where Is The Justice?
Even though we were in the quiet haven of the school library, Alexis had no problem with speaking at the top of
her voice.
Are you happy now you speccy little twat?! Weve been fucking kicked out of the competition!
The head librarian at the desk shot her head up and shushed ferociously in our direction. Other students were
looking over at us too, leaving me feeling completely mortified. I hastily logged out of the computer and ushered
Alexis out of the room.
Look Alexis, I know whats happened and Im trying to fix it. Lets just go outside and talk about this calmly.
What do you mean youre trying to fix it? What are you supposed to bloody well do about it?! I cant believe this
is happening to us after all our hard work! Its all your fault!
She kept screeching at me as we made our way to the exit. Everyone in the library was now looking at us with
bemused expressions. If she carried on making such a scene, I was going to end up banned!
Outside of the library was a little communal area with chairs and tables. I took a seat at the table farthest away
from the library doors and Alexis joined me grumpily. She kicked her feet angrily up onto the chair next to her,
filling the entire seat with her massive boots.
I am literally so pissed off I dont even know where to begin! Do you realise how hard weve been working for this
gig? Do you know how much it would have meant to both of us if wed got through? This could have actually
changed our lives and now because of YOU (she spat the word out, glaring up and down evilly at me)
Everything is RUINED. I told you to leave Vincent alone, but you wouldnt and now youve fucking ruined his life,
so congratulations!
I couldnt help but roll my eyes. This girl was such a drama queen. Plus she swore way too much. Listen up, I
didnt ask Vincent to do what he did to Taylor. How do you know it even had anything to do with me? Maybe they
had their own argument.
Alexis gave an over the top scoff. Oh yeah, of course it had nothing to do with you. One minute youre fainting in
the hallway and the next minute Vincent is going mental at Little Lord Tennis Star. It doesnt exactly take a genius
to put two and two together.
OK, she had me there. I wasnt really sure how much she knew so I was trying to tread carefully.
Well, me fainting had nothing to do with Taylor actually, so I really dont know what their fight was about. I
knotted my fingers together on the table. Have you spoken to Vincent since yesterday?
Alexis started chewing her black-polished nails which were already chipped at the tips. A bit. Not that its got
anything to do with you!
This was frustrating. I wanted to ask her what exactly Vincent had to say about the whole situation, but I didnt
think she would tell me very much. Instead, I decided to focus on the topic of a solution.

Look, I have no idea whether Im partly to blame or not, but I dont want to see you guys missing out on the
competition. Im going with Olive to see Mrs. Patricks in an hour so that we can try and change her decision.
Alexis gave a spiteful laugh. What are you nerds going to do about it then? I doubt shes going to change her
mind!
She might do! I exclaimed defensively. Olive is the head girl, shes running the event Im sure we can put a
decent case forward.
I watched Alexis as she gave a frustrated grunt and ran her hands through her short scruff of hair. She looked me
right in the eye.
You dont know the shit that Vincent has been through in his life. Ive been there for him through all of it, so I
fucking know alright? Music is his one escape, it always has been. You nerds have got your uni degrees to fall
back on, but for people like us well, music is all weve got. This was our chance to start making something of
ourselves. Vincent knows you for five fucking seconds and suddenly that chance is gone. So dont you give me
all that fake innocent bullshit! Youre the one whos dragging him down. And if you dont sort it out soon, then
there will be CONSEQUENCES!
She jumped up from her seat and slammed her hand down menacingly on the table, accentuating her final
words. Then she stomped out of the room before I could even remember how to form a single sentence.
--Mrs. Patrickss office had the smell of freshly polished mahogany wood. It was as neat and orderly as the
perfectly placed bun on the top of her head, which never had a single hair out of place.
She stared directly at us from behind her desk. So, Miss Jones. Mr. Williams. What exactly can I do for you
today?
I felt myself sweating under her intense gaze. I had never been in her office before or had any kind of interaction
with her. She was incredibly strict and I was beginning to question why we were even here at all. This was clearly
a woman who was not going to change her mind once it had been made up.
Olive folded her hands politely in her lap and started our plea. Mrs. Patricks, as you know there was an incident
yesterday involving Vincent Hunter and Taylor Raven, which resulted in a two-week suspension for Vincent, as
well as his disqualification from the upcoming Battle Of The Bands competition. Scotty and I are both friends of
Vincent and whilst we agree that he should be punished for his actions, we want to appeal the decision about
banning him from the competition.
Mrs. Patricks raised an eyebrow. And why exactly should I listen to you two?
Olive continued fearlessly with her usual eloquence and articulation. As you know, I am head girl of the sixth
form, and Scotty here is also an exemplary student. We are both predicted some of the highest grades in our
year and have extensive positive character references. We were also both witnesses to the crime in question and
we believe that no serious damage was sustained to Taylor.
There was a pause as Mrs. Patricks visibly mulled over Olives words. She pushed her glasses up her nose.
Olive, as noble as it is to want to defend your friend, my decision has been made. Violence at Havensdale

cannot go unpunished and Mr. Hunter was walking a thin line as it was. We cannot be seen to go lightly on
bullies.
At the word bullies something inside me just snapped. I suddenly forgot that I was talking to the Headmistress
of the school and my real feelings came pouring out.
Hang on a minute, Vincent isnt the bully here! Hes anything but a bully! In fact, hes the only one beside Olive
at this school who has ever stuck up for me. If you want to point fingers at anyone around here for being a bully
then its Taylor Raven and his horrible gang. Dont pretend you dont go easy on him! He gets away with murder
around here because of his rich, superstar Dad. Vincent was just trying to look out for me and now hes going to
miss out on the competition hes been working towards for months. Hes already had one punishment, why does
he get two when Taylor gets none? Its just not fair! Where is the justice?!
There was a long silence. Olive was looking at me in horror and Mrs. Patricks was staring sternly at me. My little
outburst had come as a shock to myself, so they couldnt possibly have been expecting it either. I instantly
regretted it. Why couldnt I have just kept my mouth shut?!
Finally, Mrs. Patricks spoke. Scotty, these are some very serious accusations you are making against Taylor. If
you have a grievance you wish to raise, then now would very much be the time to do it.
I squirmed in my seat. There was no way I was letting the truth come out, not even a little bit of it. No, theres no
real grievance Mrs. Patricks
Scotty just got a little carried away, Olive interjected. Hes had a hard week Mrs. Patricks, hes not quite himself
at the moment. But as you can see, he feels very strongly about Vincents fate. We both do!
She was attempting damage control now. It looked like I had blown it.
Mrs. Patricks made a hmm noise, then gestured toward her office door. OK, you have both made your case
and your objections have been noted. Please see yourselves out.
We shuffled out whilst muttering thanks. When we were outside the door, Olive gave me a sharp look.
Scotty, what were you thinking?! she hissed. You cant accuse the Headmistress of playing favourites! Do you
have a death wish?!
Im sorry, I murmured. I wasnt thinking.
So much for changing Mrs. Patrickss mind. Alexis really was going to kill me.
--That evening, I stayed up in my room watching random comedy shows on my laptop. I thought something funny
would help cheer me up, but I was feeling totally depressed.
I was pretty sure I hadnt helped Vincent at all, I had only made everything worse. Not to mention that Alexiss
little speech from earlier was still looping round in my head. Over the short time I had known her, she was
constantly implying that she and Vincent shared some special connection that I couldnt compete with. Plus she
said Vincent hadnt had it easy in the past and that she had been the one who had been there for him. It made
me feel like there was so much I didnt know about him.

Obviously I knew the rumours surrounding Vincent and his violent Dad. The whole school did. But I didnt know
the reality of his life or his childhood. It hurt my heart to think of him in any pain or sadness, but there was nothing
I could ever do to change his past or take that pain away from him. Was Alexis the only one who really knew
him? He stuck by her for a reason and maybe it was because she was the only one who truly understood him.
I sighed out loud. Everything was such a tangled mess. Maybe Alexis was right all along. Maybe I really did need
to just leave Vincent alone. I couldnt bear the thought of not talking to him anymore, but I didnt want to be the
useless nerd dragging him down.
As my thoughts started heading down a miserable road, I heard a clunking sound coming from my Facebook
page. I paused my TV show and clicked onto the window. I had one new message.
Hey Specs, sorry for the radio silence. I just needed some time to process.
I guess you know that I got suspended for two weeks. It was incredibly worth it to teach a lesson to that little
Raven weasel. I know he was behind that note and that time in the P.E. cupboard, I worked it out as soon as I
saw the way he looks at you in the school corridors.
I am very concerned that you are not talking to anybody about the shit he is putting you through, however Ill
respect your wishes and I wont say anything. But PLEASE come and talk to me at least. You dont deserve any
of this and you really dont have to go through it alone. Ive got your back, OK?
I know I wont be at college for the next two weeks, but you can send me a message on here anytime you like if
you need to. The next time I see you (I hope) will be at the Battle Of The Bands dont know what you did but
one minute I was banned from it and the next Alexis told me wed had an official reprieve. That had to be down to
you and Olive right? Definitely a signature Specs move. Thanks, I appreciate it.
Take care of yourself.
V.
I read the words about five times in a row, letting them sink into my skin and nestle deeply into my heart.

Chapter 20
The Next Two Weeks
The next couple of weeks went by in somewhat of a blur. I was counting down the days until Vincents
suspension would be over and I could see him at the competition. It just so happened that the Battle Of The
Bands fell on the week that he returned to college. Olive had lots of work to do with preparing the show and was
constantly rushing all over the school building. Due to her hectic schedule we didnt get as much time to talk
during the days, but I still caught up with her whenever I could. And during those times we usually found
ourselves going over my new favourite subject.
I hadnt been able to show her the real message that Vincent sent me without revealing the truth about Taylors
hate campaign. I had however given her the edited highlights version That Vincent had jumped the gun with
Taylor, that he was worried about me, oh and of course that he was super grateful we had convinced Mrs.
Patricks to let him and Alexis back into the competition. I had seen Olives big blue eyes widen when I first told
her the story the weekend after it happened.
Blimey Scotty, she had said. I think this guy might seriously like you!
Dont say things like that, I had replied. I dont want to get my hopes up. I told you about seeing Alexis on
Friday right? All that stuff she said I know something probably happened between those two, which would
mean Vincent is definitely into girls, not nerdy boys.
Olive folded her arms. We had been sat in my conservatory, drinking flavoured tea and listening to the rain patter
down onto the window. You dont know that anything happened between them. She probably just wanted it to
happen. Theyre not together now are they? And why else would she be acting so super jealous around you all
the time? I didnt believe it myself at first, but now all the evidence is weighing solidly in your favour. Vincent
cares about you Scotty, its just the undeniable truth!
The fact that Olive was now convinced of Vincents feelings was enough to send my heart over the edge. She
had always been overly sceptical about the two of us, so if she believed that he cared well, it just had to be
true. Olive was never wrong about anything.
The thought of Vincent possibly having very real feelings in return was making me feel all warm and floaty. In the
space of a day, I had gone from the anxiety-ridden kid having panic attacks in the halls to a brand new, superconfident version of Scotty. I walked around without a care in the world, keeping my head held high. Although I
hadnt exchanged any more messages with Vincent besides a short thank you to him, I knew I could talk to him if
I needed to. And that was more than enough for me.
I had thought about keeping the conversation going over email, but I didnt want to come across as too needy. I
wanted to wait until Vincent was back at school and speak to him face to face. I had decided that when he
returned, I was going to be more pro-active. He was giving me all the right signs and it was time for action.
Maybe I would ask him to hang out with me outside of college and see what happened. I was done with being
afraid all the time. It was time for a whole new me.
I took my new-found confidence into college and stopped worrying so much about Taylor Raven. I was ready for
anything he wanted to throw at me. I had kind of expected him to start a whole new wave of nastiness after
everything that had happened, however, he had become eerily silent since the mop water episode. Whenever I

passed him by in the corridor, he kept his head straight down and walked right past me. I would go so far as to
say he was avoiding me.
The incident involving Vincent (The Vincident as students were naming it) was still the talk of the school and
everyone was laughing about it, although I was certain Taylors little fall from grace wouldnt last for too long.
Once he got back out on the tennis field for more official matches he would become Havensdales hero again,
then no doubt he would be back to his old conniving ways. It felt good to know his pride had been a little dented
though. He was obviously going to think twice about messing with me now he knew Vincent was on the look-out
for me.
As for my other arch-nemesis, I didnt see much of Alexis either over the following two weeks. She must have
known that it was me and Olive who had managed to get her and Vincents band back on the competition bill. But
I guess she wasnt prepared to say thank you to us. The only time I even saw her was very briefly on my way into
morning classes one day. She was sitting in the courtyard by the tree that she and Vincent often sat underneath.
Only, of course, this time she was alone.
I tried to catch her eye and initiate some kind of conversation. She was Vincents best friend after all and I wanted
to try and make peace with her in some way. She just turned her nose up when she saw me and dug into her bag
for a book to hide behind. I didnt bother approaching her, since she was making it quite clear that I wasnt
welcome in her little world. It didnt look like she was ready to accept my friendship with Vincent in any way, but
that wasnt my problem. She would just have to deal with it because I wasnt backing off, whatever she thought
about it!
The only person who really confronted me and Olive over that fortnight was none other than Taylors horsey
girlfriend Patricia. Taylor was laying low after being humiliated in public, but Patricia was much more vocal about
the situation. She was furious that Vincent had been allowed back into Battle Of The Bands and voiced her
opinion about it as loudly as she could, as often as she could.
She actually sat down at mine and Olives lunch table one afternoon as we were eating in the cafeteria. She got
right up to Olives face, her long nose practically poking the sandwich she was eating.
Just what is going on with the Battle Of The Bands competition? Why on earth is Vincent Hunter back on the
running list?! Hes a bully and a thug. He was absolutely awful to my darling Taylor! As far as Im concerned, he
should have been EXPELLED. I want him out of the competition immediately!
Olive calmly put down her sandwich and turned to Patricia. It was Mrs. Patricks' decision, not mine. If you have a
problem then you can take it up with her.
Patricia clenched her fists. Maybe I will! Its a DISGRACE that someone like that should be representing
Havensdale in anything! I know you had something to do with all this, you and your little faggy friend over there.
She pointed sharply at me as she spouted her bile. I raised my eyes to the heavens as I let her words roll right off
my back. I wonder what she would have said if she knew that Olives little faggy friend had actually slept with
her boyfriend?
Dont you dare use language like that in this school, Olive scolded. Youre a disgusting creature Patricia, just
get over it and sod off!
Patricia got to her feet, visibly shaking with rage. Something like this would never have happened if I was the
head girl! I would actually make it my duty to punish the people who deserved it, not reward them! Taylor is

traumatised by what that awful brute did to him. A little suspension is just not enough considering the emotional
damage hes caused!
Olive gave a sarcastic smile. Oh, hes a big boy, Im sure hell get over it.
I am boycotting the competition! Patricia yelled furiously. And Im going to get all my friends to do the same! I
have A LOT of sway over this school, by the time Im finished you wont have anyone turning up at all. Guess it
wont look very good on your CV to run an event that was a total failure, will it?!
Brimming with my new-found confidence I suddenly butted in. Hey Olive, how many tickets have you already
sold in advance? Remind me of the number again?
Oh, just a few hundred, Olive smiled. Weve practically sold out! Actually, Patricia would be doing us a huge
favour by not turning up. We have too many people there as it is!
Patricia gave a frustrated squeal and stomped away.
BYE PATRICA! Olive shouted after her.
BYE BYEEEE! I added. We both stood up and started waving with massive grins on our faces. She gave
another irritated squeal and stormed out of the cafeteria.
--On the week of the competition, I was so excited that I could hardly contain myself. I just couldnt wait to hear
Vincent playing live and to finally see him in the flesh after everything that had happened. I never thought I would
be the sort of person who would look forward to a band night. The truth was that I had never really been to a real
gig before in my life. It was a bit of a momentous occasion.
At college, I kept looking out for Vincent in the hallways. I knew he would be back at school, but it was hard to
catch him due to our conflicting schedules. Part of me almost didnt want to see him so that I could wait for the
perfect moment at the competition. However, it was halfway through the week that I eventually found him
underneath his tree. He was practicing his guitar like always, and I was supposed to be in a lesson like always. I
walked up to him anyway.
So, the troublemaker returns, I said with a smile.
He looked up, seeming slightly surprised by my forwardness. Then he gave me a heart-melting smile. Oh, hello
Specs. I was wondering when youd turn up.
I laughed. How does it feel being back?
Oh God, Ive missed shitloads of work, he replied. I hope I dont bomb my exams because of it.
Now I felt really bad. Sorry
Vincent tutted. Dont be sorry, youve got nothing to be sorry for. It was my own stupid fault.

I really wanted to sit down next to him and talk properly. But I couldnt, not if I didnt want to fail my own exams. I
cant really talk at the moment, but I just wanted to say hi. And that Ill see you on Friday night.
Vincent picked at his acoustic guitar, filling the air with sweet melodies. Excellent. Its going to be great. You
have to tell me what you think of our set. Youve got to be honest.
Ive already promised to do that, I said, remembering our previous conversation where he had asked me the
same thing.
Vincent carefully set down his guitar temporarily and started digging through the bag that was beside him. Hang
on, let me take down your number. You can text me after the show and we can meet up.
He said the words so casually, but as soon as he uttered them it was like a succession of fireworks had exploded
in my body. He wanted my number?! Was this a practical joke?!
OOK, I stammered. I then proceeded to read out my phone number whilst he punched it into his contact list.
Ill just text you so you have mine, he said, pressing more buttons.
My phone bleeped in my hand. I clicked on Vincents message.
'Get to class before I tell on you.'
My mouth dropped open in faux shock. Vincent gave a cocky smile.
Go on Specs, stop being so naughty. Im becoming a bad influence on you.
I blushed and made my way to class, Vincents laughter ringing out behind me like one more of his beautiful
melodies.

Chapter 21
Battle Of The Bands
Havensdale auditorium was buzzing like a beehive. There were people everywhere, students and teachers alike,
all drinking out of plastic cups and flicking through the paper programmes that Olive had painstakingly designed. I
felt like a bit of a loner walking in by myself, but it was so busy that no one was looking at me. Olive had been in
the big hall all day getting things ready for the evening ahead, but I had decided to go home and get changed
rather than hang around at college all day.
I had agonised for ages about what to wear. In the end, I went for my nicest black, short-sleeved shirt and jeans.
Smart yet casual. I was no fashionista, so I hoped it was appropriate. What did people wear to gigs anyway? I
had also doused myself in my favourite aftershave, which I only saved for special occasions. It was the
aftershave I had worn to my Dads funeral all those years ago and the bottle still looked as full now as it did then.
I figured that it was about time to attach it to some happier memories.
I grabbed a complimentary glass of orange juice from the drinks stand behind me and scanned the room for a
seat. The rows of chairs were already getting pretty full up even though the show didnt start for another half an
hour. As I looked over the crowd, I saw two figures frantically waving at me. I squinted my eyes through my
glasses, trying to make out who they were. Then I realised it was Mandy and Fritz! Both of them were dressed up
and looked so different. I walked over to where they were seated, a few rows in front of the stage.
Hey Scotty! Mandy beamed cheerfully. She had straightened her red, frizzy hair and it really suited her. Next to
her, Fritz was wearing a smart shirt and trouser combo with his short brown hair gelled up. He gave me a shy
wave.
Hey guys! I beamed back. I didnt expect to see you two here. It was true. I really didnt. Apart from Dungeon
Adventure Club, those two never did anything sociable. At all.
We HAD to come and see Vincent play, Mandy said with an excited smile. He was so nice when he came to
D.A.C. I never thought Id come to a band night, but when I heard he was playing I just thought, why not?
Fritz gave a stern nod in agreement. Wow, it looked like the Vincent Hunter fan club was growing. If he wasnt
careful he was going to become King Of The Nerds whether he liked it or not.
Is it OK if I sit with you guys? I asked.
Of course! Mandy exclaimed, ushering Fritz along a space so I could join them at the end of the row. As I sat
myself down I noticed that Mandy and Fritz were holding hands.
WOAH, hang on. I pointed at their entwined fingers. When did THIS development happen?!
Mandy blushed. Um After Vincent came to D.A.C. and Fritz gave that amazing speech He was just so
awesome and I couldnt hold the truth in anymore I had to tell him how much I liked him And I guess he liked
me too
Fritz blushed too. He remained as silent as ever but squeezed Mandys hand. I gave them a huge smile. Oh my
God guys, congratulations!

Was this the power of Vincent? It was like all of us suddenly had brand new self-esteem since he came into our
lives. I was so happy for them because I knew Mandy had always liked Fritz. I just hoped that my own love life
would have such a happy ending
Pretty soon the lights dimmed and Olive walked onto the stage. She was wearing a really pretty white dress with
a lace pattern on the skirt and her blonde curls were cascading around her like a powerful lions mane. She
walked up to the microphone in the centre of the stage and addressed the audience confidently.
Good evening Havensdale and welcome to the Battle Of The Bands Competition!
Everyone let out a whooping cheer. The excitement in the room was infectious. Usually, the auditorium was the
place where we were forced to attend boring assemblies or tedious guest talks. It was great to be here for
something fun for a change.
Once the cheering had died down, Olive went on to explain the night in more detail.
So, we have had lots of submissions from student bands and weve whittled them down to our top five who will
be performing tonight. After all five have played we are going to ask you, our lovely audience, to vote for your
favourite act of the night. We then combine that score with the score of our three judges who are sitting just
below the stage. Give the crowd a wave judges!
We all peered over to a table at the very front of the stage where three professional looking people were waving.
The Battle Of The Bands competition was being held at various colleges across the area, with the same judges
visiting each night to pick their shortlist for the final. Olive read out all of their individual biographies, which were
also printed in the programme. One judge was a guy from a popular local radio station. There was also a cool
looking lady who wrote for well-known music magazines and a guy who used to work for a big record label.
After Olive had given us all the information we could possibly need to know, the showcase finally began. She
addressed the crowd one last time.
OK, now without further ado, lets welcome our first act onto the stage. This band is made up of Harry Coates,
Jez Fullham and Dave Wattman, all from year 10. They cite their influences as Arctic Monkeys, Snow Patrol and
The Strokes. Put your hands together for UNCHAINED!
The crowd went wild as three boys bounded into the limelight. Two of them were holding guitars and the third
jumped onto a drum kit that had been set up at the back of the stage. They burst into an energetic song, all of
them singing and playing with gusto. Everyone got up from their seats and started clapping to the beat. Some
girls at the back even started singing along!
I had never seen a band like this before. I didnt even recognise the names of their famous influences Olive
mentioned onstage. Their sound was really big and loud, but I didnt hate them. I thought they were actually
pretty cool and before long I was even singing along with the choruses. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed
their set of four songs, but I knew they werent as talented songwriters or performers as Vincent and Alexis. The
Night Birds' songs were on a whole different level.
Once Unchained had finished, Olive gave a quick crossover chat and the next act was hurried onto the stage.
They were called Cherry and were made up of three blonde girls who I recognised as being friends of Taylor and
his crew. I dont really know if they should have counted as a band because they were just singing and dancing to
a backing track. Olive had told me beforehand that shed been forced to pick a diverse range of acts so shed
had no choice but to include them in the running order. Their songs were really cheesy and badly-written with

tinny instrumentals that were blasting out of the stereo behind them. They could all sing and harmonise, but the
songs were so unmemorable.
I clapped and bopped along politely, but I couldnt wait for their set to be over. At the back of the auditorium, all
their friends were screaming for them like they were at a Britney Spears concert. I think by the look on their
faces, the girls thought they were superstars. I really hoped their popularity wouldnt affect the vote because
Vincents music was so much better.
The third group were another bunch of boys, this time from year 11. They had a more plinky, plonky electronic
sound and they werent as good as Unchained were. I still enjoyed them though, especially after the horrors of
Cherry. Mandy and Fritz were having a great time too, dancing in their seats to every act. We always spent so
much of our time hiding away and not joining in with things at school. Maybe we had been missing out all of
these years. This was the most fun Id had in ages!
There was a short interval after the third band had finished, where the lights went back on and we could all
stretch our legs for ten minutes. I was dying to hear Vincent play and this was just prolonging my wait, but it was
a good excuse to go and grab another drink.
When I headed to the back of the room, I caught sight of Taylor Raven sitting in one of the back rows. I was
surprised he was here considering Vincent was going to be performing. I hurried over to the drinks table before
he could see me, but as I was there I bumped into Patricia who was holding two cups.
Oh hello Patricia, I said as she brushed past me. I thought you were boycotting tonight?
Her eyes darted around self-consciously. Erm, well, my friends are playing so I wasnt going to let them down
was I?!
But what about your principles? I asked in a tone brimming with mock concern.
Patricia scrunched up her face angrily. Oh, shut up you little prick! Im still going to get everyone I know to vote
for Cherry and NOT Vincent Thug Hunter!
Good luck with that, I replied, shoving her out of my way to grab a drink. She grimaced at me then huffed over
to where Taylor was sitting and passed him a cup. I saw her whispering to him and he glanced over toward me. I
turned my head away quickly, doing my best to ignore him. This was a fantastic night and I wasnt going to let him
ruin it for me.
As I headed back to Mandy and Fritz, I couldnt help but look over at the back row again. I saw Taylor take a little
flask out of his jacket and pour a clear liquid into his cup of orange juice. He was spiking his and Patricias drinks!
Unbelievable. I thought about finding Olive to tell her because underage drinking at a school event could cause
real trouble for her. Then again, the night was almost over and it would probably just be more trouble than it was
worth, so I pretended I hadnt seen anything.
I took three drinks back to my seat and had a nice little chat with Mandy and Fritz for a few minutes. Then the
lights dimmed again and Olive took to the stage once more.
We have two more acts for you now Havensdale, and this next band is a great mix of indie, singer/songwriter
and good old fashioned rock and roll!

My heart began to stutter. Vincent was up next. I was sure he wouldnt have any stage fright whatsoever, so I
decided to feel nervous on his behalf.
This dynamic duo is made up of Vincent Hunter and Alexis Mae, both in their second year of sixth form. Give it
up for THE NIGHT BIRDS!
A pre-recorded drum beat started blasting out of the stage speakers. Everybody began clapping to the beat,
building the suspense. Clap. Clap. Clap My heart was booming along in the same rhythm.
ARE YOU READY TO PARTY WITH US HAVENSDALE?! Alexis burst onto the stage brandishing a bass guitar
and screamed into the microphone. Then a rocking guitar riff resounded from the wings of the stage and out
came Vincent, looking effortlessly cool as his fingers caressed his electric guitar with ease. He was wearing jeans
and a t-shirt with his black leather jacket, and his dark hair was in his eyes. I couldnt tear my gaze away from
him, not even for one second.
They went straight into my favourite song, Bruises. Vincent leant right into the microphone and his velvet vocals
reverberated across the whole of the auditorium. I knew the song by heart after listening to it so many times in
my bedroom, but watching him singing it live was a hundred times better than just listening to a recording. I could
tell that he meant every word he was singing. It was like I was hearing the song for the first time all over again
and it moved me so much that I almost cried.
The rest of the set was made up of the other tracks from their demo and a Green Day cover (another band I had
heard of, but never really listened to before). I was blown away with how professional the whole set was. Even
Alexis was fantastic. She had so much energy and her husky voice perfectly complimented Vincents rich tone.
They really had something great going together and they were both super-confident in front of an audience.
As the last notes of their final song rang out, the crowd went crazy. Everybody had loved them and were
whooping, cheering and stamping their feet for more. I saw many girls in the audience whispering excitedly to
each other about how cute Vincent was, and a lot of the guys seemed to be swooning over Alexis. I had a feeling
they were soon going to go from the bad kids everyone avoided to the new it pair. I dont think anyone had
expected them to be as good as they were. Apart from me, of course.
I actually felt a bit sorry for the band who had to follow Vincent and Alexis. They were a folky band from year 9
and the lead singer was completely tone-deaf with no personality. Olive told me the running order had been
drawn out of a hat, otherwise she would never have ended the show with them. I tried to listen politely, but I was
counting the seconds down until they finished. I just wanted to talk about Vincents amazing performance!
After an excruciating set of flat vocals, Olive came back out to explain the voting rules and then the lights finally
went back on. I turned to Mandy straight away who was also overflowing with praise.
OH MY GOD, Scotty! How AMAZING were The Night Birds?! she squealed.
I know, I replied with the same amount of enthusiasm. I knew they would be good, but I didnt realise they
would be THAT good! I was just blown away!
Fritz nodded in agreement. They very professional musicians. I believe I would like to purchase their songs
somehow.
As we carried on gushing about how much we loved the set, I felt my phone vibrating in my pocket. I opened the
message, fingers trembling with anticipation.

'So what did you think then Specs? Remember, you promised to be honest. V.'
I texted back instantly.
'Amazing. Beyond amazing.'
Mandy must have seen the silly grin on my face because she tried to peer over my hands to see who I was
texting. Are you talking to who I think youre talking to?!
It looked like my crush was becoming pretty transparent to everyone who knew me. I was feeling so great that I
didnt even care. I just gave Mandy a knowing smile and she responded with a girlish ooooh! noise.
My phone vibrated again.
'Ha. Thank you. Meet me on the rooftop after the results? V.'
My stomach gave an almighty flip of joy. The rooftop of the school was usually off-limits to students, but on
special occasions they opened it up for people to get some fresh air. The view was gorgeous and overlooked the
whole of Havensdale. I answered Vincent back instantly.
'You bet. Ill see you there.'
This was slowly turning into one of the best nights of my whole life.

Chapter 22
A Rooftop Meeting
Scotty Scotty Hey, earth to Scotty!
I was in such a daydream that it took a little while for Olives voice to register. I snapped back into reality to see
her standing next to the row of seats where we were sitting.
She looked toward Mandy and Fritz. Oh God, watching Vincent has literally killed him hasnt it? Hes overloaded
and short-circuited.
Hey! Im not that bad! I cried. But he was AMAZING wasnt he?!
Olive smiled and shook her head. She was holding a big cardboard box of voting papers. Come on then, put
your votes in for him then!
All three of us had written a big black tick next to The Night Birds on the list of names that had been printed out
and passed around the audience. I gathered Mandys and Fritzs papers then placed all three carefully in the
box.
Thank you! Olive trilled. Well be reading out the results as soon as theyve all been counted so it shouldnt be
too long.
Great, I said. I cant wait. By the way Ol, you are a really fantastic presenter up there. Youre a complete
natural!
Mandy and Fritz both agreed, heaping compliments onto Olive about her professionalism. She walked off with a
smug smile on her face and a bit of a bounce in her step. I laughed affectionately as I watched her from behind.
She loved getting compliments, and to be honest she always deserved them.
Sure enough, it wasnt too much of a wait until the lights darkened once more and Olive took to the stage for the
last time. She was holding a cue card which had the results on. The atmosphere was tense.
Hello again Havensdale! Thank you for being such a great audience tonight! The votes have now been counted
and added to the judges scores and the results are in. The talent tonight has been exceptional and the votes
were so close between all of the acts. But there can only be one winner. The band moving forward to the
showcase night in April is
There was a huge pause and I could feel everyone in the audience hold their breath in anticipation. I crossed my
fingers tightly and willed with all my might for Olive to announce the rightful winners.
THE NIGHT BIRDS!
The whole room burst into rapturous applause and cheering. I am fairly sure I was cheering the loudest of all.
Vincent and Alexis jumped onto the stage from behind the scenes, whooping triumphantly. Alexis pushed Olive
out of the way and clutched hold of her microphone.

Thank you SO MUCH Havensdale, this means the world to us! You guys ROCK!
Olive snatched the microphone back from her. Yes, well, thank you Alexis Congratulations
I got the feeling that they werent supposed to be onstage making a speech, but they had decided they were
going to do it anyway. As much as Alexis bugged me, I had to laugh. Olive took the stage invasion in her stride
and went along with it.
Do you have anything youd like to say, Vincent?
He leant into the microphone and looked directly into the crowd. Cheers.
Olive waited for him to continue, but Vincent didnt elaborate. She brought the mic back to her own mouth.
Um, OK so there we have it folks! The Night Birds! Well done guys, you were brilliant! And congratulations to
everyone else too.
She listed off all the other bands individually and gave details of the showcase night, which was being held at a
local gig venue just outside of Havensdale in April. Vincent and Alexis bounded off the stage, hugging each other
in celebration. I felt a twinge of jealousy to see Vincent rubbing Alexiss shoulders in such a close way, but my
feelings of happiness for the both of them outweighed any negative emotion. After all, Id been invited to meet
him on top of the rooftop! That had to be a good sign.
As the evening came to a close and the crowd died down, I could hear a small chorus of booing from the back of
the room. Patricia appeared to be drunk and was shouting out her disapproval along with one of the girls from
Cherry. Talk about being a sore loser.
BOOO! BOOOO! What a FIX! We demand a RECOUNT!
I saw one of the drama teachers at the back of the room approach her and escort her sharply out of the
auditorium. She was whining the whole way and the teacher looked really angry. It seemed very likely that
Patricia had well and truly blown her perfect record of behaviour. I didnt realise my night could have got any
better! Patricias friend stomped out after her, but I couldnt see any sign of Taylor. It was a shame he hadnt been
caught as well, because he deserved to have a black mark on his perfect reputation as the Havensdale golden
boy.
We all began filing out of the auditorium, chattering eagerly about the nights events. As we reached the reception
area, Mandy and Fritz asked me if I wanted to go and grab a post-gig milkshake with them at the late-night caf
nearby.
As much as I would love to, I replied, I have somewhere to be
I made my way gingerly through the crowd, toward the staircase that led to the rooftop. My whole body was
pulsating like I had swallowed an entire swarm of butterflies. I had been waiting so long for this moment that it
barely felt real now that it was finally here.
Taking a deep breath, I climbed the stairs
---

The night air was brisk and I pulled my jacket tightly around myself as I waited. There were a couple of students
dotted around, but I think most people had headed straight out as soon as the show had ended. I leant against
the wall which ran along the edges of the roof. It was tall enough to stop anyone from falling to their death, but I
was still able to see over the top of it to the beautiful scenery down below. Above me was a sea of stars and
underneath their glow was an endless stream of city lights. Looking out into the night made me feel like anything
was possible.
I felt a warm presence appear beside me. Decent view isnt it?
Vincent stood next to me, lighting a cigarette. He blew a trail of smoke into the darkened sky. Sorry Specs, I
keep meaning to quit, but I thought I deserved one of these tonight.
I laughed as my heart gave an excited leap. You really do. Vincent you guys were just incredible.
He turned to me and gazed intensely into my eyes. Now youre not just saying that, right? You promised to be
honest if we were no good.
I absolutely promise, I replied honestly. I think your songs are so well-written and your voice its so rich and
luscious. I could listen to it forever.
The words tumbled out of my mouth before I could stop them and I instantly regretted using the term luscious. It
was so cringe-worthy! Vincent didnt seem to mind though.
Thanks, Scotty. I appreciate it.
We stood in silence for a few moments. Vincents body was close to mine and our arms were touching. The night
was cold, but I was heating up at an alarming rate.
I bet you cant wait for the showcase night, I said finally, breaking the silence even though it wasnt exactly
uncomfortable.
Vincent took another drag of his cigarette. Yeah, its exciting. I didnt think wed actually get through though. That
first band were pretty great.
You were better, I said.
Vincent didnt answer, but I saw a coy smile flicker across his lips. He blew more smoke out into the sky.
I dont think Taylor Ravens crowd took it too well, I added with a chuckle.
Vincent stubbed the end of his cigarette out on the top of the wall. I heard them booing. It was like music to my
ears. That stupid fucking kid and his idiot friends are an insult to humanity. He turned to me. Has he left you
alone? I meant what I said, you can talk to me.
I gave a bashful nod. Vincents eyes were like two spotlights burning into my soul. Yeah, he has. Ive barely even
seen him since you well, you know the whole mop water thing.
Vincent turned his head back to the night sky. His body was still electrically close to mine. I shouldnt have done
that really, but Im glad it helped you.

Why did you? I found myself blurting out. Help me I mean. No one else has ever stuck up for me like that.
Because, Vincent replied carefully, you are such a good person Scotty and you dont deserve shit like that. It
makes me angry that anyone would want to hurt you.
My pulse was racing as the words sunk into me. What do you mean a good person?
Vincent turned back to me again, looking sincerely into my face. You see the best in everyone. And youre
always so damn happy all the time, even when things are going tough for you. You know exactly who you are and
what you want to do in life. Youre basically the total opposite of me. A moody, horrible person who has no idea
where theyre going.
He laughed out loud, but his words were tinged with melancholy. He really believed that about himself and it
made me feel sad.
I dont think youre a horrible person. I think youre the coolest guy Ive ever met. And the kindest, even though
you dont always like to show it
My words hung in the air, weaving a bubble around us. Vincent opened his mouth to reply, but then stopped
himself and just looked at me, his eyes warm and deep. Our hands resting on the wall were so close that our
knuckles were brushing together.
Moments went by where we said nothing, just staring intensely at one another. I felt Vincents fingers gently
rubbing against my own, so lightly I wasnt sure if it was just my imagination or not. All I wanted to do was lean
over and kiss him. Slowly, I edged myself a tiny bit closer and perhaps it was wishful thinking, but he seemed to
be edging closer too
HIIIIGHWAY TO HELL!!!
I jumped out of my skin as Vincents phone started blaring a rock song ring-tone from his jacket pocket. The spell
was broken. He fumbled around to find it, pulling his hand away from mine in the process.
Shit, I thought I put this on silent. He hung up on the caller then glanced at me. Its just Alexis. She can wait a
second.
My stomach churned at the mention of her name. It was like she was intent on ruining anything good that might
ever happen between me and Vincent. Before I could stop myself, I began vocalising my inner thoughts.
Why are you even friends with that girl? Shes so rude.
Vincent paused as he fished another cigarette from his pocket. Yeah, she can be a bit of a handful... But dont
judge her too harshly Specs, shes not so bad.
Not so bad?! I was tempted to tell him about her dragging me into the girls loos to rant psychotically at me the
other week, but I didnt want to start speaking too much out of turn. After all, she was part of his band and it was
their big night. It didnt feel like the right moment to go telling tales.
Vincent inhaled deeply then blew a big mouthful of smoke up into the sky, tilting his head toward the stars. We
used to date actually.

He uttered the phrase so nonchalantly that it didnt quite hit me at first.

Who used to date?
Me and Alexis, he said.
Oh, I replied.
There it was. The thing that I had crammed to the back of my mind. The thing that I had whitewashed over and
convinced myself wasnt true despite the fact that really, deep down, I had known it all along.
F...for how long?
Vincent shrugged. About a year or so.
This was my cue to ask him what had happened, but I didnt want to know. Just the thought of the two of them
together was so heartbreaking that my whole body was starting to shake.
Its um Im getting a bit cold up here. I think Ill head back down.
I had never felt so stupid in my whole life. Of course Vincent Hunter was into girls! Into Alexis! Why would I ever
think that he would have feelings for me?! He was clearly as straight as an arrow and all the little signs I thought
I had seen were just me deluding myself. Olive had warned me all along that this would happen. I felt like such a
fool.
Specs, you OK?
Yeah, Im fine I just really better get going, its getting late
I turned my back to walk away, hoping that Vincent wouldnt notice the tears that had suddenly formed in my
eyes.

Chapter 23
Old Flames Die Hard
Vincent reached out and grabbed my arm, stopping me in my tracks.
Hey, come on Stay a bit longer.
I took a deep breath, willing my tears not to spill. I had to get myself together.
OK, maybe just five more minutes, I said reluctantly. Of course I wanted to stay there with Vincent, but I didnt
know if I could hold in the emotion that was threatening to burst out of me at any second. My heart had pretty
much been broken in the space of one sentence.
I walked toward the wall that Vincent was still resting against and looked back out at the view of the city. The
lights looked duller now. We stood next to each other, but this time our arms werent touching.
So, Vincent began cautiously. What did you think of our Green Day cover then?
Oh God, this was excruciating. He clearly knew what I was feeling and was now changing the subject and
pretending everything was fine. He was trying to let me down gently and it made me feel even more stupid. I
didnt really have any other choice but to play along.
Yeah, it was great, I managed to answer, thankfully without my voice cracking. I hadnt heard that song before.
Vincent did a double take. WHAT? Youve never heard Basket Case?!
I gave a shrug and he shook his head with a little smile. Wow, you really dont get out much do you?
I winced at his words. They were like adding insult to injury. I had nothing he wanted. No musical knowledge and
no XX chromosome.
Im not sure if he saw the look on my face, but Vincent started back-tracking. Wait, I dont mean that in a mean
way, just He trailed off for a second, Listen, do you know a shop downtown called Rhino Records?
This question caught me off-guard. Erm... yeah, its opposite the supermarket right?
Thats the one, Vincent replied. I know the guy who runs the store, Im his best customer. Let me take you
there and get you some CDs. Its about time you had a musical education. You about this weekend?
Now I was confused. One minute Vincent was trying to let me down, the next minute he was asking me to hang
out with him? Did he feel sorry for me?
Oh wow, that sounds great but Im seeing Olive tomorrow, and I have a lot of work to do
What about Sunday? He seemed insistent.

I knew with the way I was feeling it was probably a bad idea to say yes, but I couldnt help myself. I guess I just
loved to torture myself with things I couldnt have.
OK
Excellent. Meet me there at say, 2pm?
I nodded and Vincent grinned, stubbing out his second cigarette on the wall. He touched my arm and gave it a
squeeze, sending sparks all the way through me.
Ill let you get home then, if you need to go?
Yeah, I mumbled. My Mum will worry if I get back too late. Ill Ill see you Sunday then.
Looking forward to it.
I walked over to the exit, leaving Vincent staring out into the night. Before I headed back downstairs, I called out
to him.
Congratulations again on tonight. Youre a total rock star.
He smiled gratefully. Cheers, Specs.
I watched him secretly for a few more seconds before I left. His silhouette in the night air was so beautiful I
wished I could take a picture and frame it forever. I wondered what on earth he was thinking about as he looked
out into the ocean of light below. Did any of his thoughts just maybe include me?
--I gripped the bannister tightly on my way back down the stairs. My mind was so full of confusion that it was
difficult to concentrate on putting one foot in front of the other. One half of my heart was breaking from Vincents
revelation. The other half of it was bursting with joy at the fact he had asked me to meet him outside of college
hours. I felt like I had just been on a rollercoaster of wild emotion and now I was only just stepping out of the
carriage, dazed and bewildered.
Up until this point, my evening had been so wonderful. And that moment on the rooftop It had been electric. I
thought for sure something was about to happen between us. Was it all in my imagination? Maybe I wanted him
so much that I was becoming delusional.
As I reached the bottom of the staircase, I thought of Alexis. Her mean little face, covering Vincent with kisses
touching him I literally felt sick. I guess I had known deep down that something had happened between them,
but I didnt want to face the truth. Didnt Vincent realise that telling me about her was going to tear me apart? Was
he really so oblivious?! Maybe he offered to buy me some CDs to try and ease the guilt of not being able to return
my feelings
The crowds had died down by the time I got back to the auditorium, but there were still small groups of students
milling about. My head was swimming with so many thoughts that I wasnt paying much attention to anyone else.
Because of this, I almost didnt notice when Taylor Raven appeared directly in front of me.

Scotty, Scotty, Scotty. Fancy bumping into you here.

He was staggering slightly and he absolutely stank of booze. By the state of him, I guessed he had managed to
sneak in a tiny bit more alcohol than the little hip flask Id caught him with earlier.
Get lost Taylor, I snapped without even thinking. Im not in the mood.
His eyes were glazed over and his speech was slurred. Aww, whats the matter Scottyboy? Isnt your white
knight here to make it all better for you?!
He waved his arms around, accentuating his words. I ducked my head down and tried to push past him, but he
blocked my way.
Vincent Hunter, the rock star Ha! I guess hes going to be king of the whole school now! All hail the almighty
Vincent!
I looked around, trying to catch the attention of anyone on the outskirts of the doorway. In the excitement of the
evening, no one seemed to have noticed how intoxicated Taylor was. Perhaps it was just because he was acting
so pathetically, but I suddenly felt uncharacteristically brave.
Taylor, youre drunk. Just shut up and go home.
He blinked a few times, shuffling uneasily on his feet. Hey, thats not very nice. I think that boy is leading you
astray. Did you know he almost punched me? That really wasnt very nice was it?
I rolled my eyes in disgust. YOURE not very nice.
With that, Taylor grabbed my wrists and roughly started pulling me away from the auditorium doorway and toward
the sixth form locker room, which was located just around the corner. I tried to wrench myself from his grip, but he
was too strong. Not to mention that he was acting completely unpredictably and I was conscious about making
too much of a scene. If he wasnt careful then he might just blow the secret he was so adamant that I kept quiet
about. I wanted the truth to come out but not like that.
What are you doing? I hissed at him. Just let go of me!
We were standing in the locker room now, far away from the remains of the crowd. Taylor kept hold of my wrists
and looked into my eyes.
Do you like Vincent more than me? he asked, in a distressed whisper. Is he better than me?
His breath was like a toxic cloud on my skin. I yanked my wrists from his grip. Oh, please tell me this is not
happening. You make my life hell, and I mean HELL and now you ask me something like this? Sort your life out
Taylor, seriously.
I barged past him, but he grabbed my shoulders and pinned me against the row of lockers. You know why I have
to be like that Scotty I have to be the kind of guy my Dad expects me to be! You dont understand how much is
riding on it I have to I have to

He was rambling now. I pushed him off me. You have to what? Be a monster? Become the reason Im having
sleepless nights and panic attacks in the hallway? Is that what your Dad expects from you, really?!
Taylors face softened, although it was difficult to tell if anything was getting through to him in his drunken state.
He brought a shaking hand up to my face and started stroking my cheek.
No Scotty I didnt want it to get this far I just dont know how to stop Please forgive me Please forgive
me Please
Before I could make sense of what was happening, Taylor leaned in and kissed me.
It was soft and tender. I was momentarily stunned and didnt fight him. This was the boy I loved so much all those
years ago. A moment like this was all I had ever wanted from him back then.
But not now.
With all my strength, I pushed him off me. Do NOT do this to me. Just DONT.
He tried to kiss me again, but I kept pushing him away. He started pleading with me in a desperate slur. Scotty
you were my first love You were the first person I ever made love to I know Im with Patricia, but its nothing
like it was with you I still think of you when Im with her
This was beyond messed up and his words made my skin crawl. I put my hand against his face and shoved it
forcefully away from me. Leave. Me. ALONE.
I saw a sudden movement from the corner of my eye and my heart leaped out of my chest. Although the locker
room was tucked away from the remaining crowd, we were still in plain view to anyone walking past. Plus Taylor
was talking incredibly loudly. It wouldnt take much for someone to discover us in such a compromising position.
Had someone been standing there?
I craned my neck toward the doorway and saw two younger girls walking past laughing. Luckily, they didnt seem
to notice us. I breathed a sigh of relief.
Taylor, do you seriously want the whole world to know about this? I whispered in an attempt to get through to
him. Those girls could have seen us. Youre so bloody worried about me saying something, but youre the one
shouting your mouth off!
Taylor released his grip on me, my words seeming to make sense to him at last. Then he bent over beside me
and threw up all over the floor. I used this chance to finally escape, leaving him lying there in a sobbing heap.
--Oh Scotty, there you are! I thought maybe youd gone already. You wont believe what happened after the show!
Patricia and her gang were drunk off their faces and Mrs. Cayle caught them. Shes going to get a black mark on
her perfect record! How funny is that?
As Olive approached me in the reception foyer, I suddenly burst into tears and threw myself into her arms.
SCOTTY! Whatever is wrong?! Whats happened?!

Outside the revolving doors, I could just make out the shape of Vincent leaving the building. He couldnt see me
from so far away. Alexis was walking out with him, laughing and hugging him.
I cried harder into Olives shoulder and she hugged me comfortingly despite having no idea what the matter was.
Perhaps I didnt know either. All I knew was that everything was wrong and I just needed to keep crying.

Chapter 24
Musical Education
It was Saturday afternoon and Olive and I were huddled on my sofa, drinking hot chocolate and watching
cartoons. The perfect antidote to emotional trauma.
I hadnt been able to tell her all of the drama that had happened the previous night. There was no way I could
have explained Taylors drunken kiss, even though I was tempted to reveal the truth. It would have been such a
weight off my shoulders to finally come clean about everything. I was almost beyond worrying about what Taylor
was going to do to me anymore. Seeing him puking his guts out and collapsing on the floor made me realise
what a pathetic little boy he really was.
But still, something was stopping me. I had kept this secret for so long, it was like a hand grenade in my pocket
just waiting to go off. What would Olive say if she knew Id been lying to her for so many years? Not to mention
there was no guarantee of what Taylor was going to do. I had images of him throwing bricks through my window
or pushing me and Olive down the stairs. Or maybe his Dad would just find some way to get us out of college, or
even stop universities from accepting us. He was a big name in Havensdale with a lot of money, so he was
bound to have connections in high places. And Vincent I didnt want Vincent to know Id ever had anything to
do with Taylor Raven. Not after he had defended me so valiantly against his bullying.
No, I was keeping my mouth well and truly shut. It was easier that way. However, that didnt mean I couldnt tell
Olive all about the other situation that was wreaking havoc on my mind.
So do you think its a mistake to meet Vincent tomorrow? We had already been over the conversation a million
times, but I still hadnt reached any firm conclusions.
Olive slurped her mug of hot chocolate. Oh, I dont know Scotty! I have no idea what to think anymore! I wish
you would just talk to him already, especially after all those tears yesterday.
"I can't!" I wailed. "There's no point."
The thought of confronting Vincent in any way was unbearable. I already knew what the answer was going to be
when it came to his feelings for me (or rather lack of them), so why put myself through the humiliation?
There was a moment's pause, then I let out a small groan. Why did it have to be Alexis?! Of all the people Just
why?!
You always knew there was a possibility theyd had a history, Olive reminded me. I told you there were
rumours.
I know, I replied. But I didnt think they were actually true. I just thought maybe shed had a crush on him or
something... It explains all her freaky behaviour now. I was getting too close to her ex and she didnt like it.
I winced at using the word ex. It made the whole thing seem way too real.
But WHY didnt she like it? Olive questioned aloud with a wave of her long arm. She was slopping hot chocolate
everywhere, but she didnt seem to care. Why would she be so jealous if Vincent was a hundred percent
straight?

Because shes a psycho! I exclaimed. She probably doesnt like him talking to anyone outside of her. Theyre
kind of the school loners and she likes it that way.
Or maybe Vincents bisexual?
I gave a disbelieving snort. I think thats just wishful thinking. I cant see Vincent being the kind of guy who sits
on the fence with anything.
Olive gave me a reprimanding look. Oh, so now youre one of those people who seem to think bisexuality
doesnt exist?
Not when it comes to Vincent, I muttered. Just look at him. Hes blatantly straight isnt he? Ive just been
kidding myself.
Our conversation petered out at this point and we sat in silence for a while watching The Powerpuff Girls flying
around on-screen. My hot chocolate tasted too bitter, but I swallowed it down anyway.
Olive spoke up again apropos of nothing. Why are you doing it then?!
I looked up from the TV. Doing what?
Meeting Vincent! Why are you putting yourself through it if youre so convinced hes straight? You were in a
massive state last night at the mere thought of him not returning your feelings. Now youre going to go out with
him? Why do it if you dont think theres the tiniest chance of anything happening?
I faltered a little. Well... I Well, I didnt want him to think I was being rude. Its not fair to snub him just because
he doesnt fancy me! I still want to be his friend.
But can you handle just being friends? Olive asked. Surely he must realise youve been falling for him? Im
pretty sure he would understand if you backed off. You know, just for a while.
I didnt answer. I didnt want to back off. I didnt want to stop the burning fire I felt for him. I just wanted to be
around him all the time, even if I ended up burning myself.
--I checked my watch as I rounded the corner leading to Rhino Records on Sunday afternoon. It was 2pm on the
dot.
Vincent was already waiting outside the record shop, leaning against the wall of the building with his hands in his
jacket pockets. His face looked stern when it was resting, but it brightened up when he saw me approaching.
Specs!
As soon as he opened his mouth I regretted coming to meet him. I liked him so, so much. And it was quite
obvious he was just meeting up with me out of pity. What was I doing to myself?!
Hey Vincent. You got here early!

I didnt want to keep you waiting, he grinned. Then he opened the door of the record shop and gestured for me
to enter. After you.
Seriously, what was I doing to myself?! There was no heading back now, so I stepped through the door.
The shop was fairly small but filled to the brim with endless racks of CDs and vinyl records. It smelled slightly old
and musty, like stepping back in time. The walls were covered with fading posters and flyers from all the famous
bands that had ever visited Havensdale, adding to the vintage feel. I had never been in the shop before and it
was actually kind of cool.
In the corner, there was a till manned by an older guy with a grizzled grey beard and tattoos up his arm. He gave
Vincent a nod as we entered the room. Vincent nodded back. Alright Dave?
I gave a little wave to be polite and the tattooed shopkeeper nodded at me too. He looked like the kind of guy you
wouldnt want to meet in a dark alley at night. No wonder I had never been in here before, it wasnt really the kind
of place someone like me belonged.
Vincent shut the shop door behind us and turned to me with his arms folded. What do you think of my world
then? This is where I spend way too much of my time.
I looked all around, taking everything in. Theres so much music in here! Ive never seen so many albums in one
place before.
Yup, Vincent nodded. And heres the deal Specs. Seeing as how you were so kind as to get me back on the bill
Friday night, Im going to buy you some albums. You know, as a thank you. You can have up to twenty quids
worth, but only if I deem your musical choices acceptable enough to listen to in public.
I felt my jaw drop. Vincent wanted to buy me a present? What?! I cant let you spend that much on me! Dont be
silly!
Scotty, I literally insist, Vincent replied. Someone who hasnt heard of Green Day is obviously lacking in any
real musical knowledge, so its my duty to educate you. Not only will I be doing you a favour, Ill be doing a favour
to the world.
He had a teasing grin on his face which made me smile in return, even though I pretended to be annoyed. Well
sorry, I didnt realise it was a crime to THE WORLD Mr. Know It All In that case, youre on!
I walked pointedly up to the nearest CD shelf and started to scan the titles on display. I didnt really know where
to begin so I just reached out for the first artist I had heard of.
Jennifer Lopez?! Vincent exclaimed. Come on Specs, lets be serious.
I placed the CD back on the shelf in embarrassment. I was just looking at it! Am I not even allowed to look at
things you dont approve of?!
Vincent didnt say anything, but his dark eyes were watching me like a hawk. My hand hovered by a Celine Dion
CD and he made a scornful noise. Nope. Try again.
Hey, I like Celine Dione! I cried.

Vincent laughed and picked out a colourful CD from the pile. Why dont you try a bit of Beach Boys to ease you
into things? Theyre poppy but classic. Have you heard any of their stuff?
I took the CD from him and turned it over in my hands. Ive heard of the name, but I dont know if Ive ever heard
their music.
I think youd like them, Vincent said. Do you want to give it a go?
I nodded. I wanted to listen to anything that Vincent recommended to me.
--We ended up staying in the shop for over an hour. Vincent was in his element, pointing out all of his favourite
albums and telling me about the bands that inspired him. The CDs were so cheap and I ended up with about ten,
ranging from old classics such as The Rolling Stones to more modern bands like The Killers and Green Day (of
course). A lot of it was rocky, but Vincent also told me to check out some more mellow artists such as Joni
Mitchell and Rufus Wainwright. I hadnt heard of many (if any) of these musicians, so I couldnt wait to listen to
them all. It was so exciting, especially because they had all been picked out by the one person I thought so very
highly of.
Just before we got to the till to pay, something caught my eye in one of the record racks.
Ooh, Dolly Parton! I headed over to take a closer look. It was the vinyl version of one of her Greatest Hits
albums that I already had on CD. She was my Mums favourite artist and we both loved her songs. We were
always playing them around the house and singing along.
Vincent joined me and scoffed when he saw the cover. Dolly? Really?
I felt a prickle of irritation. I could take Vincent mocking my other musical tastes, but I stood by my love for Dolly.
Shes really good actually. Shes an amazing songwriter and her voice is beautiful.
Vincent raised an eyebrow. I didnt take you as a country fan.
I hugged the album to my chest. Well, I am. This album is brilliant even if you dont think its cool enough. I
loosened my grip and went to return it to the rack. But I already have it on CD and I dont own a record player.
Before I could put it back, Vincent whipped it out of my hands. I do. Maybe I should give it a go.
My mouth gaped open. You just made fun of it!
Yeah Vincent admitted. But you love it, so Im giving it a chance.
He put the record carefully at the bottom of the pile of CDs we had accumulated between us. OK, Ill go pay.
I reached out and lightly grabbed his arm. Wait, are you sure you want to spend all this on me? I feel bad
Specs, its nothing. Ill have loads of money soon anyway once I win the showcase night and get a million-pound
record deal.

He placed the pile of music on the till counter and Dave the shopkeeper started inputting all the prices on his
archaic old till. Good picks Vince, as always, he muttered as he bagged all the CDs up. It was obvious that
Vincent was one of his most loyal customers.
Once we finally left the shop, I wasnt sure what to say. Was this the natural end of our day together? It had only
been an hour, but I wasnt sure what we could do next.
As if reading my mind, Vincent put his hand on my shoulder and broke the silence. Want to go get a drink
somewhere?
I felt an overwhelming thrill at Vincents touch. I wanted so badly to say yes, but I was scared. I Im not
eighteen yet...
Vincent gave a hearty laugh. Aw, Specs. Im sure I can sneak a drink in for you. Or we can just have Cokes or
whatever, your choice.
OK, I said with a small smile. Lets do it.
I didnt care anymore if this was a pity meeting. Or if Vincent could never feel for me what I was feeling for him. I
just loved being around him. When we went back to college life, Vincent would probably return to his own little
world with Alexis. But today, it was just the two of us and I wasnt ready to go home any time soon.

Chapter 25
Night Birds
Vincent poured his bottle of cider into a glass as I sipped on my pint of Coke. We were sat in an old-fashioned
looking pub, which had a little dog scurrying around between the tables. There werent many people around and
the atmosphere was cosy and relaxed. I never normally went to pubs unless it was to have a meal with my Mum.
I felt weirdly grown up.
Cheers, Vincent announced, raising his glass to mine. We clinked glasses together.
Thanks again for all those CDs, I said as I tried to keep the blush from my face. I cant wait to listen to them.
And I cant wait to hear what you think of them, Vincent replied. You have to let me know what your favourites
are.
I will, I answered honestly. And you have to let me know what you think of Dolly!
Vincent shook his head with a smile. I cant believe you let me buy that... In front of Dave!
We both laughed. I had been worried that the conversation was going to be stilted outside of college, but it turned
out that Vincent was the easiest person in the world to talk to. We had such a natural rhythm between us and we
never seemed to run out of things to say.
Time flew by as our discussion deepened and we ended up staying in the pub for another few hours. We spoke
more about music, about Battle Of The Bands and plans after college (it turned out that neither of us had any
ideas particularly set in stone when it came to the next few years). Then the subject of our families came up.
Do you have any brothers or sisters, Specs?
No, its just me and my Mum. How about you?
Yeah, Im an only child too. Are you close with your Mum?
Really close. It was really hard for her after well, after Dad died. It brought us together a lot more.
Shit. Your Dad died?
Yeah. Just over three years ago. It was a car accident.
Im really sorry Scotty. Shit. Thats awful.
Before I knew it, I found myself pouring out the whole story to him. The moment when the police knocked on the
door and everything changed forever. I hadnt intended to go into detail about it, but Vincent listened intently to
me, gently interjecting with kind words every so often. It felt good to talk about it out loud.
I wanted to speak to Vincent about his own family, but the moment seemed to pass and we carried on talking
about other things. School and politics and our hopes and dreams for the future. Vincent was so bright and

animated, nothing like the brooding boy who shoved people out of his way in the school hallway. I was slowly
learning that all he needed was the chance to be himself and he would flourish. It was like his outer shell was
carefully unravelling to reveal the real Vincent underneath.
Out of nowhere, my stomach let out a growl of hunger. It was getting near to dinner time and I hadnt even
realised. The minutes were running away with me. Vincent gulped down the remains of his second drink.
Sounds like someones hungry. Fancy getting some chips on the way home?
I hadnt told my Mum I would be back for dinner so it sounded perfect. Definitely. But Im paying this time.
--The days were so short in the winter and the sky was already dark by the time we reached the nearest chip shop.
I ordered two massive portions of fish and chips and we ambled along the street whilst eating them.
Ive been meaning to ask you, Vincent began, slathering a sachet of ketchup onto his pile of food. You havent
had any more trouble from Taylor have you?
I bristled at the mention of Taylors name. No, I havent. It was sort of true. If you didnt count him drunkenly
pouncing on me the night before.
Good, Vincent replied. Because if he so much as touches one hair on your head Well, Ill probably end up
getting myself expelled next time.
He laughed, his breath fogging up the cold night air. I felt a joyful warmness seep through my whole body.
Vincent saw me beaming away to myself and cocked his head to the side. What?
Nothing, I answered in a cheeky tone. Its just, youre acting so I dont know, protective? I thought you were
supposed to be this bad-ass rock star who hated everyone.
He threw a chip at me. No one in their right mind could hate you Specs. And anyway, Im not just a bad-ass rock
star I have a Dolly Parton album now!
I smiled and ate the chip he had thrown. He flung another one at me, and we erupted into joint laughter.
Hey, why dont you come back to mine and we can listen to it on the record player? My place is just around the
corner. Trust me, vinyl is so much better than listening to a CD. Itll change your world.
My heart jolted. We had been heading to the bus stop to wait and eat chips before I went back to my own house.
I had never expected to be asked back to Vincents. Was it a good idea? Id had such a lovely afternoon and this
could potentially ruin everything. If we went back to his then Id probably blurt out how I felt and it would all end in
tears.
Yeah, sounds good, I heard my own voice saying.
---

Vincent took out his keys and unlocked the door. We were in a student area filled with blocks of flats that were all
crammed far too closely together. The buildings looked very basic and unwelcoming, with greying walls and a
severe lack of windows. Vincent lived on the third floor of one such building and we took the steep, winding
staircase up to his apartment. On first impressions, it was sparse but homely. There was an AC/DC poster on the
wall, a small screen television in the corner and a green lava lamp resting on a half-filled bookshelf.
You live here by yourself? I asked in surprise, taking off my coat and hanging it on the back of the door.
Yeah, Vincent replied. Ive been here since I was sixteen.
I blinked in confusion. Sixteen?! How do you afford it?
My Dad, he shrugged. He's loaded from the construction company he used to run. He set up a monthly
allowance for me before he went inside. Not that I should take anything from that old bastard, but it was better
than being at home. I dont know how long Ive got until it all runs out, but hopefully I can get a student loan or
something by then. Or a record deal, that would be pretty good.
I couldnt stop the horror from showing on my face. I just couldnt imagine being forced out of my home at
sixteen. The thought of it broke my heart.
Vincent looked at me with a half-smile. Oh, come on Specs, dont look like that. Im fine! I like it here by myself.
But what about all the cooking and cleaning? I asked. And the bills and arent you lonely?
In answer to your questions, Vincent replied. In order... Microwave meals, vacuum cleaner, being organised
and why would I be lonely when youre here?
He gave me a charismatic grin, but his cocky charm wasnt fooling me. I almost wanted to cry after stepping into
such a lonely little apartment. Slowly, he let his guard down.
OK, it is kind of shitty. But honestly, I cope.
What about your Mum? I asked in a small voice.
Vincent sighed. Ill tell you all about it. I promise. But for now, can we go listen to music? Im just having such a
great day and you know, my shit can wait. He took in the resigned look on my face. Just for now, yeah?
I wasnt going to push him to tell me anything he didnt want to. I nodded in agreement and followed him into his
bedroom, which was tiny and dark. Vincent flicked a switch by the doorway and more lava lamps lit up, casting
their glowing light in patches across the walls. I saw more band posters pinned around the room and a giant pile
of retro vinyl records stacked up by a navy blue, double bed.
Check out my collection, Ill go get us a drink. Squash OK?
Yeah sure, I answered, putting aside the remainder of my chips to look through Vincents records. It really was
an extensive collection and was splayed out across the whole of the floor. His room was the complete antithesis
to mine. I had a light, airy bedroom with neat orderly shelves and lots of computer games and Munchy Monster
cards scattered around. His was dark and messy, filled with discarded clothes and music memorabilia. He even
had an electric guitar in the corner, the same one he played on the night of the gig. I almost wanted to touch it
just because it was there, but I didnt want to act like some kind of weird stalker.

When Vincent came back into the room, I was lying on the floor and skimming all the album titles in his collection.
Hey, how come you have Bryan Adams? His songs are so cheesy, I thought for sure he would be on your Reject
List!
Vincent leaned over me and took the record out of the pile. Its not Bryan Adams, its Ryan Adams. They are two
very different artists, Specs.
Ive never heard of him.
Hes one of my all time favourites, Vincent said with a smile. Which you might find surprising because hes
really mellow. But his music is just so exquisite. Actually our band is named after one of his songs.
Really? I exclaimed in surprise. Can I hear it?
Vincent put down the cups of squash he was holding and carefully took the record out of the sleeve. This is
pretty new actually compared to the other albums. Its always expensive getting newer stuff on record. But its so
worth it.
He lifted up the cover of his record player and put the needle down onto the right groove of the disc. Slow piano
chords started to play out, followed by a mans soft voice, singing like an angel.
I stood up and walked closer to the speakers, wanting to drink in every note. I love this. I really love it.
Vincent stood behind me, the presence of his body making the whole room feel warm and electric. I had been
pushing my feelings to the back of my mind all day, but now this tension was everywhere and it was more than I
could bear. The words of the song echoed around the two of us. They were mesmerising and mysterious,
painting images of birds and seas and empty houses.
From the corner of my eye, I could see a photograph pinned on the wall above the speakers. It was of Vincent
and Alexis together, posing with their arms around each other. It was the truth staring me straight in the face. But
Vincent remained so close to me, energy pulsating between us. Didnt he realise what he was doing to me?
Vincent I started, my mouth suddenly feeling dry and barren. I dont think I can do this anymore.
He stepped closer, his voice a soft murmur. Do what?
I felt my body shaking with adrenaline. Everything I had pushed down all this time was rising to the top of the
surface and I couldnt stop it from falling out of me.
You know Im gay dont you? I mean, Ive always been honest about it.
I know.
I took a deep breath, the song washing over me and giving me some kind of courage I didnt know I had. Then
you must know the way I feel about you
I braced myself waiting for Vincents response. The song kept playing and the silence felt like a chasm.

And then, so lightly I wondered if I had imagined it, Vincent ran his fingers across my shoulders, spinning me
round to face him. Was he trying to let me down easily? I looked him in the eye and spoke from my heart.
I I just dont think I can see you anymore... Its too hard being so close to the one thing I cant have
He wound his arms around my waist. My breath caught in my throat at his unexpected touch. We were slowdancing to the music, which was swelling like a gorgeous symphony around us.
Vincent pulled me even closer toward him and spoke softly into my ear.
Who said you cant have me?
I felt light-headed. Had I heard that right? Was this just my mind playing cruel tricks on me?
Before I could think of a single thing to say, Vincent brought a hand up to my face, cupping my cheek and running
his thumb gently against my skin. Then he leaned in and kissed me. Slowly and tenderly. It was like time stopped
and magic filled the whole room.
After a few wonderful seconds, he pulled away. The end of the song rang out and we gazed into each others
eyes, noses touching.
God Specs, you dont know how long Ive been wanting to do that, he whispered with a smile.

Chapter 26
Vincents Past
I looked up at Vincent, my heart racing. Was this really happening?
You you like me?
He nuzzled my nose with his. Of course I like you. Isnt it obvious?
He gave me another soft little kiss and I melted into him. He must have sneakily had some gum earlier because
he tasted minty and zingy. With a sudden thought, I gently pushed him away.
Wait, I dont taste like chips do I?!
He stifled a massive laugh and ran his hands lovingly over my face.
Oh my God, you are so fucking adorable.
His touch sent fireworks shooting through me. After so many weeks of hell at college, it was like I finally had a
taste of heaven.
Why didnt you tell me sooner? I asked, still feeling in a state of disbelief. I thought you just wanted to be
friends.
I do want to be your friend, Vincent answered with a grin. Does that mean I cant kiss you too?
He leaned towards me again and I was instantly lost inside a world where it was just the two of us. Ryan Adams
was still singing in the background and we moved to the music, holding each other and kissing with a sweet
tenderness like nothing I had ever experienced before.
As the song faded out, our lips parted and Vincent let out a contented sigh. My glasses had steamed up slightly
and I quickly took them off and wiped them with my shirt. Vincent laughed out loud.
Hey, its not funny, I said with a smirk. I actually cant see!
He wrestled me playfully onto the bed behind us. Stop being so God damn fucking cute, because I cant take it
anymore!
We were both laughing as he pinned me down onto the navy sheets. His body was hovering over mine and our
fingers were entwined above my head. I wanted him more than I had ever wanted anything and this desire
suddenly filled me with terror. We had gone from zero to a hundred in the space of ten minutes. I felt a little
overwhelmed.
Vincent saw the look on my face and cautiously shifted away from me. Specs, whats wrong?
I sat up, adjusting my glasses nervously. This is just this is all happening a bit fast
Its OK, Vincent said, sitting up as well. We dont have to do anything. Lets just talk.

He stood up and reached for the squash he had brought in earlier. He handed me a glass and I thanked him.
Then we sat drinking and cooling off a bit, still on the bed but no longer touching. I felt grateful for the space.
Thanks, I said after a long pause. This is just all so crazy to me because I didnt think I ever stood a chance
with you.
Are you kidding me? Vincent exclaimed. I didnt think I stood a chance with you! I was terrified you were going
to tell me to fuck off.
What?! I cried. In what universe would that have been the outcome to this situation?!
Vincent ran a finger around the glass he was drinking from. I thought you werent really interested. I kept trying
to hint it to you, but it didnt seem to be working.
A collection of moments from the past few weeks came racing into my mind. Vincent coming to Dungeon
Adventure Club. Our little exchanges in the hallways. His messages to me and our almost-kiss on the roof. It
hadnt been all in my head after all. I never knew that I could feel so much joy, spreading out to every inch of my
body.
Ive always liked you, I insisted. I just thought I was barking up the wrong tree. I was convinced you were
straight. And then you said about Alexis the other night
Vincent put a hand to his forehead and rubbed it in frustration. Shit. SHIT! I KNEW I blew it with you when I said
about that.
I turned to him with a confused expression. He sighed. That night on the rooftop, I really wanted to tell you the
way Ive been feeling about you, but then I brought that up and totally fucked it up. I wasnt trying to put you off, I
just I dont know, I wanted to be honest with you in case anything happened between us. It felt wrong to keep it
from you.
A pang of guilt throbbed through me at this statement. There was plenty that I hadnt told Vincent about, but now
didnt seem the right time to bring any of it up. I needed to take this opportunity to find out the truth about his
relationship with Alexis. I didnt want to hear it, but I had to know what happened.
So, its true? You did date her?
Vincent sighed. Yeah. But its probably not what youre thinking. Its complicated...
I didnt want to outright ask him to tell me, but Vincent could see from my expression that I needed to hear more.
He stood up from the bed. Lets go sit in the other room. Ill explain everything.
He placed a hand warmly on my shoulder and led me to the brown, leather sofa that was situated in his small
living room. It wasnt quite so dark and intense in here as his bedroom. We sat apart from each other, but Vincent
had an arm slung against the back of the sofa, his fingers tentatively brushing my back every so often.
OK, he started. So this is what happened
---

"Ive known Alexis for years. We met in year 7 when we were in the same tutor group together. We were both
kind of outsiders I guess. I pretty much hated everyone else in my class, but Alexis was the one person I could
actually stand being around. She was funny and tough as nails. She loved music and knew all the bands I loved.
We just kind of clicked and before we knew it, we were hanging out all the time.
I think she always had feelings for me, but I never really thought about her in the same way. I loved our
friendship, but I always knew deep down that I was gay. You just know, dont you? I used to have the biggest
crush on Billie Joe Armstrong actually. His posters were plastered all over my wall at home and I knew my
obsession was more than just wanting to be like him I fucking wanted him.
But it was confusing, because Ive never been a feminine kind of bloke. Ive never liked any of the things that
people automatically think you like if youre gay. So I figured maybe I had it wrong. Maybe it was just a weird
phase or something. Not to mention that coming out wasnt the smartest idea with the way my Dad was at home,
especially if I wasnt even sure if I was gay or not. It was just one more thing I didnt really need on my plate so I
ignored it. I had no interest in anyone anyway, so what would be the point?
So the years went on, and Alexis and I got really close. We had the idea of starting our band and it was a great
distraction from home life. She set up her own studio in her room and she was so good at producing tracks. Id
never met a girl who could do that kind of stuff before, I thought it was totally rock and roll.
Al had a shitty family life too. Her Mum actually walked out on her and her little brother when she was just ten
years old, totally out of the blue. The woman got re-married and started a new family with some other guy. She
kept in touch with Alexis and her brother for a bit, then the calls got less and less until finally she just phased her
old children out of her life.
Alexiss Dad is some kind of Japanese businessman. Ive never been quite sure what he does exactly, but its
something finance related. He spends the majority of his time flying between the UK and Tokyo for work. I guess
Als Mum got sick of being left alone all the time, so she passed the burden onto her daughter.
Alexis basically spent the majority of her childhood home alone, trying to raise her little brother by herself. Her
Dad would pop in from time to time, send her money and get her grandparents to check up on her every other
weekend. But ultimately she was pretty much abandoned by everyone in her life. Thats why she seems so
grouchy and she gets jealous of other people. She doesnt mean to be like that, its just kind of engrained in her
psyche. Shes not a bad person underneath it all.
Music was an escape for us. We started writing and playing as much as we possibly could. I usually went to Als
place since it was always empty and it got me away from my own home. I suppose I should tell you a bit about
my Dad, even though I hate wasting a single ounce of breath on him. Hes always been a fucking useless drunk
and a nasty one at that. Its been the same cycle for as long as I can remember Dad would stay sober for a
week or so and wed all be one big fucking happy family for a while. He and Mum would make this big effort to
take me out on day trips or help me with my homework. You know, all that shit you see in adverts on TV with
those perfect models playing the flawless little family unit. Then suddenly, he would go on a week-long bender
and thats when the fists would come out...
If he wasnt hitting my Mum, he was hitting me. And she would never take my side over his. There was always
some reason why it was my fault and I deserved it. I was being too loud or too stubborn or too stupid. One time
he actually threw a chair at me, it was the heavy wooden one we kept in the dining room. It hit me so hard in the
head that I needed stitches. Mum told the hospital Id been messing about with my friends and tripped myself up.
I dont know what hurt more, the physical pain from my Dad or the lies from my Mum.

I guess the whole situation was causing me to shut down. I went from having groups of mates at school to
keeping myself to myself. In the end, I just stopped speaking to most people in general. It was easier that way.
After Dad had been on one of his drunken rages, he was always the same. Full of apologies and promises that it
would never happen again. It was always the last time. He used to say that he had unresolved issues with my
Grandad, that he was depressed and needed anger management. He swore he would go to the doctor and sort
his head out, but he never did. Mum always lapped up every empty excuse and it made me sick.
This all went on for years. It was a living nightmare, but I coped with it. Then one day, just before the start of year
11, Dad had one of his worst outbursts of all time. I dont even remember what set him off. It was something
stupid like I had forgotten to take the bins out. He had been drinking all day and flew off the handle, screaming
and shouting like a maniac. I saw red and started shouting back at him. Then he swung a punch at me. Usually, I
just took his crap, but something snapped in me and I punched him right back. Before I knew it, we were in a fullon fist fight, with Mum screaming at us to stop. I gave as good as I got, but in the end Dad overpowered me and
practically knocked me unconscious with one of his hits.
By this point, Mum was crying and screaming, telling him hed gone too far. I was really dazed and it took me a
while to come round. But when I did, it was like everything became clear. I could not stay in that house a second
longer. I packed up a bag of stuff and somehow ended up on Alexiss doorstep. I didnt know who else to turn to.
She opened the door to find me standing there in tears, looking like Id just stepped out of a war zone. That was
when she held her arms out to me and we kissed for the first time. I was so upset and pathetically lonely. I just
wanted someone to take it all away for me. And there she was.
When everyone else had let me down, there she was.
I ended up moving in with her and spent the rest of the summer at her place. And during that time we sort of got
together without much talking about it. I mean, it kind of happened naturally, seeing as we were with each other
all the time.
As summers go, it wasnt exactly a terrible one either. We took her brother on days out, we made dinner together
and in the evenings we worked on music. Sometimes we kissed I guess. It was like playing house, the way I
wanted a proper family to be. Like our own little bubble where nothing could hurt us. For the first time in ages, I
actually felt content. Almost happy.
After a month or so, my parents tried to get me to come home, but I refused. Then Dad started going even more
downhill and that was when he got in that massive bar fight that landed him in prison. I always blamed myself for
that in a way, since I was the trigger for it. Then again, if it wasnt me then there would always be someone or
something else to set him off. I was glad when he got sent down, it was like a relief. I think he must have felt
really guilty because he set up that monthly payment for me before he went inside so that I could get my own
place. I was lucky to find a landlord who would allow it since I was so young, but the guy who runs these flats
was OK with it since I had my Dads backing. Mum was furious because she wanted me to move back home, but
even with Dad gone I was never going back to live with her. It was just too late.
I think moving into my own space was the one thing that really broke the spell between me and Al. It was great
being with her, but it was just a fantasy. A distraction really. Dont get me wrong, I loved her. I honestly did. But in
the way you really love Olive. Its a strong love, but not the same kind she was feeling for me. She was falling for
me in a really big way and I didnt know what to do.
For a while, I tried to just go with the flow. Convince myself everything was fine. Things would have been so
much easier that way. It was good knowing someone was always on your side and I didnt want to lose her. Plus I

was struggling with living alone and I was angry. Rumours about my Dad were spreading around the school and I
kept getting into trouble all the fucking time. Alexis told me to come back and live with her. Ive got to admit that
with everything that was going on, I was tempted to. But something was stopping me. I still didnt end things with
her though. I knew I needed to learn to cope alone, but she was my lifeline and I couldnt cut her off.
So, yeah We just went on being together for months. She always wanted to get more physical with me, but I
always stopped it before we got too far. I think she thought there was something wrong with her. I felt so cruel
and in the end I just thought, fuck it Why not try and pretend for her sake? So we did. But that was the moment
I really knew. I wanted to please her, and I guess that I could if I tried. But I just wasnt connected. It wasnt fair on
her.
After a few more times together we both knew there was something wrong, so I came out and told her the truth. I
was gay. It felt weird to say it out loud, but it was like a weight lifted off my shoulders as soon as I said it.
I thought she was going to take it really badly, but to be honest she was pretty understanding about it. I know that
it hurt her a hell of a lot, but she wanted to be there for me. I promised her that we would always be together,
even if it wasnt in the way she wanted. And that we would keep playing in our kick-ass band and become mega
rock stars one day. And you know, so far Ive done everything in my power to keep those promises."
--There was a pause as Vincent finished his story. I sat very quietly, letting him speak without any interruption. It
was a lot to take in. He gave a small sigh.
So there you go, thats pretty much everything. Right up to the point where you walked into me in the hallway
like a little ray of fucking sunshine and turned my life upside down. He grinned at me and butterflies fluttered
right through me.
Y...you remember that?!
Course I do, he replied. Because up to that point, me liking boys was never a problem. There was never a real
boy to come between me and Alexis. Then I saw you that day and I swear to God, I thought you were the most
adorable thing I ever saw in my life. You were like the one person in the whole school I didnt want to punch.
Steady on, I said. Thats a pretty heavy statement to make if you dont really mean it.
He laughed out loud. God, you really make me laugh. His fingers curled lightly around the back of my neck and
sent shivers rocketing through me. I get the feeling you dont really like Alexis. Which makes me think shes been
on your case in some way and you havent told me.
I sat in silence. Vincent gave an exasperated eye-roll.
Please dont judge her too harshly. Ill talk to her.
We dont have to tell her, I found myself saying. I mean, not yet. Can we just take things slowly? Just for a
bit?
Vincent took my hand in his and lightly kissed my knuckles. Of course we can, Specs. Whatever you want.
I squeezed his hand. I am so sorry about everything that happened to you. I just wish I had been there.

He squeezed back. Youre here now.

Chapter 27
Text-Flirting
WHAT?! YOU HE WHAAAAT?!
Olive was practically hyperventilating and her voice was echoing around the whole of the courtyard.
Shh! Someone might hear you!
I had made her come with me to a secluded part of the grass to eat lunch rather than our usual spot in the busy
cafeteria. There was no way I could have risked anyone overhearing our conversation. Although Olives current
volume wasnt helping matters much.
Sorry, but talk about developments! Why didnt you tell me IMMEDIATELY about it?!
I scrunched up the packet of crisps I had just been eating. Well, it was quite late by the time I got home and I
dont know, I was just on such a high from the whole night, I guess it was all I could think about. Im sorry!
Olive had barely touched her own food as she had been so engrossed in my story. I hadnt intended to tell her at
first, not after Id asked Vincent if we could take things slowly. But in the end I just couldnt keep any more secrets
from her. She was my best friend and she had to know.
I mean really, she HAD to know. Everything.
OK, I forgive you. But you must tell me every single detail! Like what happened when you left? How did you
leave things? Are you boyfriends now? TELL ME!
I shushed her again, paranoid that everyone in the school was going to hear. She put her hands guiltily over her
mouth.
Im sorry! But Scotty! He kissed you! He likes you! This is like BIG NEWS!
I smiled. In fact, I hadnt stopped smiling since the moment I discovered how Vincent really felt. It was like a
wonderful dream that I couldnt believe was really true. I kept pinching myself to check I was actually awake.
I know. After all this time. But in answer to your question, I dont know if were quite boyfriends yet. I didnt stay
much longer after wed finished talking.
Olive raised her eyebrows. Did you kiss more?
I said nothing, but a huge blush came creeping across my face.
OH MY GOD, YOU DID! She gave me a playful shove and knocked me over. Oh my God, you didnt do
anything more did you?! Scotty, I dont think I can handle it if you did more
I blushed harder as I picked myself back up. No! Of course not! We just had a snog! And then I went home.

That part was true. I hadnt been lying when Id told Vincent I wanted to take things slowly with him. Id learned
my lesson from rushing into things with Taylor and there was no way I was letting a situation like that happen
again. Not that it ever would with Vincent... But I still wanted to take my time with him and savour every little
moment.
Olive blew out her cheeks. Phew! Im glad you havent gone throwing your morals away at the drop of a hat.
Theres nothing wrong with taking things slowly. Wait, was it your first actual kiss?! Tell me exactly what it was
like!
As far as Olive was concerned, I was a sweet and innocent virgin. This made me feel guilty as all sin, but I
couldnt exactly tell her the truth. The fact I lost my virginity in a manky P.E. cupboard to the worlds nastiest bully
was something that disgusted even myself, so Im sure she would have been beyond horrified. Perhaps I would
just keep that secret buried forever and have Vincent be my fresh new start in life.
Yeah, I guess it was my first kiss and it was absolutely incredible. It was everything I hoped it would be.
The second part was the truth, so did it really count as a lie?
--Lunchtime passed all too quickly and pretty soon it was time to go back to lessons. During our talk, Id told Olive
as much as I could, including a brief rundown of Vincents past with Alexis. I had expected to feel insanely jealous
at the fact those two had been an item, but to my surprise I was fine about it.
Well, mostly fine. If I lingered a little too long on the logistics of their relationship I couldnt help but feel a slight
stab of envy. However, I understood why it had happened and I guess it made me understand Alexis too. She
was obviously still in love with Vincent and she knew that he liked me. It must have been hard for her to come to
terms with. All of her crazy behaviour made sense now.
Even though I was in a maths lesson and supposed to be concentrating, my head was drifting away to everything
that had happened the previous night. All the things Vincent had told me were replaying over and over in my
mind. And that kiss Wow, that kiss. It wasnt my first kiss like I had told Olive, but it was the first kiss that had
ever made me feel like THAT before. The memory alone was causing a zingy electric shock to course through my
body.
But then there was Vincents story. His past. It made my heart physically hurt to hear everything hed had to go
through. I couldnt bear the thought of him spending so many nights all alone in that dark little flat. I was going to
make sure he never felt alone again.
Suddenly my phone buzzed in my trouser pocket. I never normally kept my phone on during classes, but I hadnt
been able to resist keeping it close by. Not when I was expecting to hear from a certain someone. I sneakily
pulled the phone out underneath the desk and read the message.
You were right. That Dolly Parton record is amazing. V. xx
I had to stop myself from laughing out loud in case Mr. Bicknam caught me. Trust something like that to be the
first thing Vincent decided to text me. It gave me a little thrill to see he had signed off with two kisses as well. I
texted him straight back.
Well, what can I say? I have exceptional taste. X

I put my phone back in my pocket and hastily started catching up with notes. Mr. Bicknam was explaining a
difficult equation on the whiteboard at the front of the class and I was going to get lost if I didnt start paying
attention. I managed to get up to speed with the question, and then my phone buzzed again.
Oh, just one x? I see. So thats how it is. V. xxxxxxxxxx
As I read the message, I actually laughed out loud, then instantly tried to disguise it as a cough. I looked around
the room to see if anyone had noticed, but everyones heads were down in deep study. OK, one more text back
and then I would definitely start paying attention
One x is sufficient. Stop being such a text-flirt! x (OK, heres a bonus one x)
I put my phone away. I would not check it again until the end of the lesson.
It buzzed again and I grabbed it faster than the speed of light.
Me the text-flirt? There is only one text-flirt around here and its quite blatantly you. V. (ha ha ha no xs. How do
you like them apples?)
I smirked and decided to end the conversation there. I would reply to him after class, but right now I really had to
get some work done.
I felt another vibration in my pocket.
Oh what the hell. I cant hold it in anymore. Heres your damn xs.
V. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
(Sorry, had to get them out of my system)
I found myself grinning inanely and Mr. Bicknam caught me.
Mr. Williams! I do hope youre paying attention and not looking at your text messages!
I looked up in alarm, fumbling with my phone under the desk.
Um, yes! Of course Sir.
He pointed at the equation on the board. Then youll have no problem telling me what x is equal to here?
Oh crap! I scanned the board frantically and pulled a number off the top of my head. Err Twelve?
Mr. Bicknams mouth straightened into an irritated line. Yes Thats correct.
I gave a smug smile and he carried on teaching.
---

By the end of the day, the sky had turned an ominous shade of grey and it was pouring down with torrential rain.
As much as I hated catching public transport, I decided it was better than getting drenched, so I hopped on the
bus. It was heaving with Havensdale students, but I managed to secure myself a seat right at the back. In front of
me were two year 11 girls, giggling and chattering with one another. I wasnt paying much attention to them until I
heard the words Vincent Hunter pop up in their conversation. Feeling intrigued, I secretly listened in to what
they were saying.
and he is SUCH a good guitar player! Oh my God, it gave me chills watching him on stage! He is SO cute!
I know! I always see him around school and I thought he was kind of scary I never realised how hot he is!
And talented!
Yes, sooooo talented! Do you think you can buy his songs on iTunes?
I hope so! I have to hear his voice again, like ASAP!
It was so weird hearing people I didnt know gushing about Vincent, but kind of cool too. I knew he was bound to
be the talk of the school after everyone had heard him play. How could he not have been? I manoeuvred my
phone out of my pocket, trying not to accidentally hit the kid who was sitting next to me as there was hardly any
space on the seat.
I am on the bus and there are two girls in front of me who cant stop talking about you. Looks like you have
groupies! Youre such a rock star. Xx
Vincent messaged back straight away.
Really? Or are you just trying to flatter my ego? Vx
The two girls were still talking about Vincent and his amazing set. It was kind of thrilling knowing that he was
talking to me and they didnt even know!
Really. I think they might just be the new Vincent Hunter fan club Xx
I hit send and after a minute I got a reply.
Thats weird because Im the newest member of the Scotty Williams fan club. Can I be your groupie? V xx
At that point, I almost missed my stop because I was in such a daze of delight.
--Mine and Vincents text-flirting carried on for the next few days, until Thursday morning when I finally saw him in
the flesh again. It was becoming some kind of weekly tradition that I would see him practicing guitar underneath
his favourite tree as I was heading to class through the courtyard.
Seeing him sitting there, his dark hair in his eyes and a look of concentration on his face, was almost like seeing
him for the first time again. I was getting to know him so well through text messages and we had stepped up our

flirtation to boiling point. But writing something on a screen was much easier than saying it to someones face. I
suddenly felt all shy and nervous.
I approached him quietly and he didnt notice me until I was right up close to him. His eyes lit up as he saw me.
Well, look who it is. The text-flirt!
I gave an embarrassed smile. Um, excuse me. I think youre just as bad!
He placed his guitar carefully on the ground and stood up. My pulse raced as he neared me. He brushed his
hands against my waist in an attempt to pull me toward him. Ive really missed you
I hesitantly inched away from him. Vincent, someone might see us!
He let his hands drop by his sides. Sorry Specs. Were taking it slow arent we?
You dont mind do you? I looked away feeling awkward. Its not that I wanted to hide anything from people, but I
didnt feel quite ready for the whole school to see us together yet. We were only just getting to know each other
after all. And I definitely wasnt ready to deal with Alexiss reaction when she found out.
Of course I dont mind, Vincent said kindly. But I do need to see you again outside of a phone screen. You free
on Sunday again?
I can be, I replied, unable to hide the joy in my voice.
Great. Ill text-flirt you about it later since I know you usually have to get to class about now? He looked at his
watch in an overly exaggerated way.
I gave a disappointed sigh. Yeah, I suppose Id better be off. Im already in trouble for not paying attention in
lessons. Youre a terrible distraction, you know that?
Vincent looked at me smugly. Maybe youre just a terrible student.
Um, hardly! I replied with mock arrogance. I gave a laugh and turned to leave, but then Vincent called me back.
Wait, one more thing before you go
I cocked my head to one side. Whats that?
He looked around to see if anyone was about, then pulled me behind the thick trunk of the tree.
You forgot this, he said. Then he kissed me passionately with all of his might. My knees went so weak that I
nearly fell over.
He pulled away quickly so that no one would catch us. QUICK, YOURE LATE! RUN!
I span away and somehow made my legs work again, stumbling off to lessons in a dizzying haze of happiness.

Chapter 28
Old Scars
It was hard to remember a time when I had ever felt so happy before. I didnt even notice the presence of Taylor
Raven when I walked into my tutor session on Friday morning. After the events of the previous week, I had no
idea what he was going to be like. For once, I just didnt care. All of a sudden Taylor seemed so completely
irrelevant to my life. He could hate me, love me, or whatever. It didnt matter now I had Vincent.
As it turned out, Taylor was back to being very quiet and ignoring me. He must have been totally embarrassed
after his drunken declaration of love to me. That fateful night, he had apparently been found lying in his own sick
by one of the P.E. teachers and was now the disgrace of the whole school. Well, at least where the teachers were
concerned. The gossip about him had actually subsided by now and all his friends just thought he was a legend
for managing to get so drunk at a school event and not get into trouble for it. There was no way he would be
suspended when he was representing Havensdale at national tennis competitions.
After seeing him like that, I honestly didnt know why Id let him have so much power over me for so long. He was
a messed-up, miserable, pathetic mess. I vowed I would never let him intimidate me again, no matter what
threats he tried to pull on me. I think perhaps he could sense my new fearlessness, because he couldnt even
look me in the eye whenever I passed him in the corridors. As far as I was concerned, anything to do with Taylor
Raven was over now. It was time for a new beginning.
I also felt a whole new compassion for none other than Alexis Mae. Despite everything, I wanted to befriend her.
She had been there for Vincent in his darkest hour and for that reason alone, I wanted to reach out to her in
some way. Even if she still hated me.
I hardly saw her that week at school, but on Friday afternoon I caught her stomping along the science block
corridor. She was on her own and I found myself calling out to her.
Hey Alexis! You were fantastic last week. I loved your set.
She stopped in her tracks, taken aback by my friendliness. I could tell she didnt quite know how to respond to a
compliment.
Oh. Um. Thanks, I guess.
Her words were friendly, but she spat them out like they tasted bitter. Then she hurried off with her head down. I
figured I was still in her bad books, but at least it was some sort of progress. I did feel a tiny bit guilty, because
she must have thought Id backed off Vincent since our last conversation. She had no idea that in between their
band practices and hanging out, he was spending every other moment talking to me.
Actually, I didnt feel that guilty about it.
--By the time Sunday afternoon came around, I was feeling a strange mixture of nervousness and excitement. The
weather was still torrential, so Vincent had suggested we stay in and have dinner at his place. He was going to
cook. I had never had someone other than my Mum cook dinner for me before and it seemed like such a grownup gesture.

I pressed the button to his flat and waited anxiously for him to buzz me in. His velvet voice rang through the
intercom.
Specs! Come on up.
As I walked up the three flights of stairs, I could smell something delicious wafting through the air. Vincent
opened the door wearing a smart shirt and trousers.
Oh my God, that smells AMAZING! I said as the aroma of home cooking hit me even harder.
He took my coat for me and hung it on the back of the door. Its nothing special, just a chicken casserole.
I went into his little kitchen, which was to the side of the front door. I could see the casserole bubbling in the oven
and it looked mouth-watering. It is special! I can barely even boil an egg!
Vincent followed me into the kitchen. Well, I normally just have beans on toast, but I thought Id try and make an
effort.
Feeling touched, I spun around from the oven to look at Vincent properly. He was so handsome, all dressed up
with his dark hair brushed neatly to the side. He really had made an effort. I still couldnt believe this was all
genuinely happening. We stood looking at each other, the small-talk fizzling out. I felt overcome with shyness all
of a sudden, unsure what to say or do next.
For fuck sake Scotty, come here, he grinned. Then he grabbed me around the waist and pulled me into a long
kiss. I wrapped my arms tightly around his neck, losing all my inhibitions. We werent at school anymore, so we
could do this for as long as we wanted to
--Dinner was so lovely. We ate and talked and laughed. Vincent had even bought a gorgeous chocolate gateaux
for dessert, which we both devoured in no time. We never seemed to run out of things to say to each other, even
when we were just talking about pointless little things. We chatted about music and all the CDs Id been listening
to thanks to Vincent. He told me about his preparations for the Battle Of The Bands showcase night. He also told
me that Alexis was none the wiser about the two of us, and we both agreed to keep it that way for just a little
while longer. I didnt admit that I had actually told Olive about us (however, I had sworn her to secrecy and I knew
she wouldnt tell.)
All in all, the meal was pretty much perfect. And once we finished, Vincent reached over the table and started
stroking my fingers with his...
I let out a hitched breath of excitement at his touch. I couldnt even begin to describe what this boy was doing to
me. Before I knew it, his lips were once again locked on mine and we both stumbled away from the dining table
and into Vincents bedroom Onto Vincents bed
I moaned softly as his body pressed on top of mine. He was kissing me with a sense of urgency, roaming his
warm hands through my dark curls and across my body. We were both fully clothed, but I inched my hand
underneath his shirt, feeling his muscular back and torso against my own palm.
As I touched him, he suddenly leapt up in alarm. I instantly snapped out my fervent state.

Are you OK? Im sorry, did I go too far? I sidled off the bed in embarrassment, sitting myself back upright. Lets
stop
Vincent sat himself up next to me. Sorry Scotty, I didnt mean to do that. Its just Im a bit self-conscious about
this particular area. He gestured around his chest and stomach. I felt confused. Vincent had the body of a God,
what did he have to be self-conscious about?
Taking in my bemused expression, Vincent gave a half-smile. OK, Ill show you. But dont freak out about it.
He slowly unbuttoned his shirt, revealing his bare flesh underneath. As he undid more buttons, I could see a scar
unveiling. It was long and deep, running all the way from his chest down to his stomach.
I gasped out loud. Oh, Vincent What happened to you?
My Dad happened to me, he replied with a sigh. He gave me this little beauty just before I moved out.
I reached out and ran my fingers lightly over the scar, wishing my touch could somehow erase it. Vincent flinched
ever so slightly.
Did he stab you? I asked uneasily, pulling my fingers away.
Yep. With a switchblade knife. He always used to carry it round with him, fucking thug. He was off his face like
always and pulled it out on my Mum during some stupid argument over nothing. I stepped in to protect her and
he slashed it right at me.
The thought of anyone hurting Vincent made my blood turn cold, let alone his own father. I reached out for his
hand. It was a feeble attempt at offering some kind of comfort, but Vincent took it gratefully.
Didnt the police get involved?
They did, but I told them it was a gang of kids I didnt know. He sighed sadly as he unearthed the memory. I
made up this dumb story about how they stabbed me outside the newsagents and how I staggered back home to
call an ambulance. I think the police knew it was a load of crap, but they didnt have any evidence to prove
otherwise. Dad begged me not to tell anyone what really happened, he said it would tear our family apart and
Mum wouldnt be able to take it. I just went along with it I dont know why. I guess some pathetic part of me still
thought we could be a family.
I was now lying next to Vincent on the bed, our bodies apart but his hand in mine. You werent being pathetic.
Theyre still your parents, even if they let you down.
Yeah, Vincent agreed quietly. Although Ive pretty much given up on them both now. Ive never bothered to go
and see my Dad since he went inside. I actually felt relieved when he finally got arrested. It should have
happened the moment he knifed his own son. Mum never thanked me either. She just blamed me for getting
involved. I don't know why I didn't leave then, it was way worse than the fight that made me move in with Alexis.
But I guess at that point I was still clinging on to some stupid hope that things could get better.
I didnt know what to say. I had grown up in a family where my Mum and Dad loved me no matter what. I couldnt
imagine a world where something so violent could happen in my own home. The aching in Vincents voice was
too much for me and before I could stop myself, my eyes were filling up with tears.

Vincent laughed gently when he saw me cry. Oh, Specs! What are you crying for? Dont be silly.
I tried to regain my composure. Sorry I just My sentence fizzled out. What could I possibly say that could
make anything better?
Vincent leaned over and kissed my cheek. You are adorable. And Ive just ruined this date big time by bringing
all my shit into it.
I sat up sharply. No, you havent! I want to hear everything about you! You can tell me anything.
Vincent cocked an eyebrow teasingly. Anything?
I nodded, my heart hammering inside my chest. Of course.
He sat up and started buttoning his shirt back up. OK, heres a terrible story to lighten the mood God, I
probably shouldnt tell you this but years ago I got in a fight with this really annoying kid while I was in
detention. He kept teasing me about my Dad and somehow I ended up smashing his head against a table. I have
no idea why I wasnt expelled for that, it was pretty nasty.
There was a hint of guilty amusement in his voice. I stopped dead.
Shit, you think thats awful dont you?
Erm, I faltered. I was there actually
His head snapped round to me. You what?
Um, I was there
Vincent blinked in confusion. Fuck off! No you werent!
Yes I was! I insisted. It was a few years ago in the science block and I was sitting up at the front of the room. It
was that ginger kid, Rich something or other
FUCK! Vincent exclaimed loudly. I dont remember you being there!
Well, why would you? I said with a laugh. There was no reason to notice me.
He grabbed me and wrestled me flirtatiously back onto the bed. God, I must have been pretty screwed up back
then not to have seen you. And you must have a death wish if you still like me after that.
Lets just say, you made an impression on me.
Vincents laughter rang out as he carefully took off my glasses and put them on his side desk, before proceeding
to kiss the length of my neck adoringly. He rubbed his hands playfully over my body and I did the same to him.
This time he didnt pull away as I touched his stomach. He let me run my hands over his scar like it was the most
beautiful part of him.

Chapter 29
A Month Of Moments
A month sounds like such a long time, but before I knew it, a whole twenty-eight days had passed me by in a
delirious blur. Weeks came and went and the happiness in my heart only grew stronger with each passing day.
Mine and Vincents feelings for each other were slowly unravelling into something pure and wonderful. We
carried on seeing each other on Sundays or weeknights after college, either at Vincents place or at outside
meeting spots. I looked forward to every single moment I spent with him, absolutely savouring every second. And
the more I got to know him, the more I realised just what a funny, sensitive and compassionate person he really
was. No matter how he appeared to everyone else on the surface, he was something very different on the inside.
I was fairly sure I was falling in love with him.
Or perhaps I had already fallen from the very start.
--WEEK 1
Olive and I were walking home from college in the rain and she was desperate to know any new updates.
So come on, tell me all the latest gossip! You saw him again the other night didnt you?
She was clutching onto my arm as we shared her umbrella, her grip tight with anticipation.
I might have done, I answered mysteriously. Her hold on me got even tighter.
Scotty, I cant take this! I need to know whats going on! You have to tell me everything or Im going to explode
and accidentally let the cat out of the bag
I gave an alarmed yelp. Ack, Olive! You are sworn to secrecy remember! You cannot tell anyone!
She gave a disappointed tut. OK, fine. But I dont see what the big secret is. Are you scared of Alexis or
something?
I shook my head, flicks of rainwater flying off my curly hair and landing onto the pavement below. Its not exactly
that. I just want to take a bit of time to figure out whatever it is thats going on between us first. I dont feel ready
to have everyone watching us. Not yet. I mean, Im not trying to hide it or anything, I just
Olive finished my sentence. you just REALLY like him?
Yeah, I replied with a blush. I REALLY like him.
She gave me a knowing smile. Oh, Scotty... Its OK, you know I wouldnt actually say anything. Not until youre
ready for people to know.
I nudged into her affectionately and her grip on my arm turned into a friendly squeeze.

Then she dug her fingers into me again.

BUT. You had BETTER tell me EVERYTHING thats happened WORD FOR WORD!
Owwww, OLLY!
--so, even though my Mechamonkey is two levels higher than your Pikamunchy, I still lost the battle? How is
that even fair?!
Because, I explained slowly, as though talking to a small child, my Pikamunchy is electric based and your
Mechamonkey used a water attack. Rookie mistake because water conducts electricity.
Vincent slammed the Gameguy on the floor. This is stupid! Since when do monkeys use water attacks
anyway?!
I gave him a stern look. Hey, be careful with that! I borrowed it from Olive. Dont break it just because youre a
sore loser.
He pounced on me. Im not a sore loser, youre a smug winner!
I giggled like crazy, dropping my own Gameguy on the floor as Vincent showered my face with kisses.
--WEEK 2
I was sitting at my desk working on some coursework, whilst simultaneously listening to music and chatting to
Olive on instant messenger. I always preferred working with a bit of background noise, and my new playlist was
particularly inspiring. I had shuffled all the songs from the CDs that Vincent had got me, as well as some new
artists I had discovered in his record collection.
A Ryan Adams song started playing and I stopped writing mid-sentence. His music always made such an impact
on me since it was the soundtrack to my first kiss with Vincent. The song that was currently playing was a mellow
ballad that took me straight back to that moment. As I got lost in the music, I decided to send Vincent a text.
Ryan just came on my playlist. Bringing back memories X
I didnt expect him to reply back since he was at Alexiss for band practice. The showcase night was getting
closer and they wanted to get the perfect set together to impress the judges.
To my surprise, my phone buzzed back after five minutes. Vincent had replied back with the chorus lyrics from
the Night Birds song, followed by his own message.
The lyrics that changed my life. Thinking of you Specs. Xx
The words sent flutters through my chest. I picked my pen back up to carry on with my work, but I had never
worked with such a big smile on my face before.

--Vincent cranked up the stereo and jumped up on his sofa, playing air guitar. His shirt was open and he had a
goofy pair of black shades on. He was usually so controlled, but this particular morning he was having a random,
crazy dancing moment.
What the hell are you doing?! I laughed as he bounced all over the sofa cushions.
He ignored me and started singing along to the words with gusto. Woah, oh woah! There she stood in the street,
smilin from her head to her feet!
I was in hysterics as he let all his inhibitions go, waving his arms and bopping his head to the beat. As the song
got to the chorus he pulled me up onto the sofa with him.
ALLLL RIGHT NOW! SCOTTY ITS ALLLL RIGHT NOW!
I joined in, jumping and singing with all of my might.
--WEEK 3
Vincent walked past me in the corridor. Alexis was tailing right behind him with her nose stuck up in the air.
We pretended we hadnt noticed each other, but as Vincent passed me by he secretly brushed my palm with his.
Such a simple gesture, but it still sent electrifying shivers through me.
As they walked off, Alexis seemed none the wiser. I hid my giggles behind my workbook.
--Do you want to stop? Vincent was stroking my face and looking intensely into my eyes. We were kissing on
his bed and we were both topless.
He could obviously sense my hesitation. I blinked and turned my head away from his. Maybe
He kissed me softly and rolled to the other side of the bed. Scotty I told you, we dont have to do anything you
arent ready to do.
My heart was pounding with exhilaration. I wasnt sure what the matter was. I think after everything that had
happened in the past with Taylor, I was just scared. Last time I went all the way in a relationship it had ended so
badly. It had made the whole thought of getting physical with anyone else completely terrifying to me.
I just dont want you to get impatient with me, I said in a small voice.
Dont be ridiculous! Vincent exclaimed. Its fine. Its a big deal. I dont even know if Im ready, so lets just wait.

For some reason, I had never stopped to think about Vincents feelings on the matter. He was so self-assured, it
never crossed my mind that going further than kissing might be a bit scary for him too. I turned around to face
him.
I know youve been with Alexis in the past, but have you ever been with another guy before?
Vincent scoffed. I told you before Specs, theres never been anyone before I met you. I hadnt even kissed
another guy before. Or girl for that matter, Alexis was the only one.
I felt genuinely surprised at this admission. For some reason I thought that Vincent would have had way more
experience than me, even if it had been with past girlfriends in his earlier school days.
What about you? Have you ever been with anyone else?
I felt my palms go incredibly sweaty at this question. This was my moment to tell Vincent the truth, but I couldnt
bring myself to do it. Not when everything was going so well. Its not like Taylor even counted as a first time
because it was all so brief and hopeless. I wanted to erase him completely out of my past. So I made up a lie.
Ive only really kissed someone else before. Some boy who was in my class when I was fifteen. He moved away
though, it didnt mean anything
Vincent gave a teasing grin. Oh, so youve had other lovers besides me?! I hope you realise Im burning with
jealousy now.
I couldnt quite meet his gaze. Vincent, it was nothing!
He chuckled to himself and then reached out a hand to caress my face. I didnt have my glasses on and my hair
was all tousled from our kissing session.
God, look at you... Youre so gorgeous like this.
He leaned over and kissed my bare shoulder tenderly, sending me giddy with joy.
It was so easy to finally forget the past when my present was so unbelievably wonderful.
--WEEK 4
The sun was setting in the park as Vincent and I sat huddled on a picnic blanket, eating the remains of the
sandwiches and cocktail sausages we had brought for lunch. We were both wearing coats and jumpers, because
it was pretty chilly outside. However, it was the first weekend in ages where it hadnt been raining so we thought
we would make the most of it.
I kept worrying that we might bump into someone we knew from college, since we were out openly on the grass
for anyone to see. A couple of girls walk past who looked like they might come from Havensdale and I jumped a
little.
Vincent, are you sure you dont want to head back now? What if someone sees us?

He rolled his eyes. Specs, I dont give a damn if someone sees us.
The girls walked right by us, oblivious. Even if they came from our college, they didnt seem to know or care who
we were or what we were up to.
I dont care about people knowing either, I said honestly. Apart from Alexis...
We have to tell her at some point, Vincent sighed.
I know, I replied. But I dont want it to come between you guys, not so close to your showcase night. I think it
would be better to wait until afterwards. I paused in thought, fiddling with the crusts of my ham sandwich. Its not
exactly going to do your image any good either.
Vincent tilted his head to one side. What do you mean?
Well, your band and everything, I muttered. Youre the rock star of Havensdale now. What are all your fans
going to say if they find out youre gay.
I dont care.
His tone was totally adamant. I continued with my questioning.
Yeah, its easy to say that, but are you sure you wont care? Youve never been openly gay before. Have you
thought about what some people might say about it?
Scotty. I dont care.
But I continued, what if people try and cause trouble for you? What if it stops people listening to your band?
He took my hand in a strong, firm grip.
I. Dont. Care. What will be will be. Theres no point worrying because you cant change things if theyre going to
happen. I want to be with you and if people dont like it then they can fuck right off.
Oh, I replied. He obviously didnt care then.
He grabbed me around the shoulders and kissed the top of my head affectionately.
We dont have to tell Alexis yet if youre worrying about it. Ill let you make the call Specs.
OK, I replied. Because you dont care.
Right, he answered. But I do care about you.
He grappled me into a headlock and carried on kissing me as I struggled jokingly out of his grasp.
---

I felt someone watching me as I was working at the kitchen table. I turned around and saw my Mum in the
doorway, watching me with a soppy look on her face.
Mum, what are you staring at?
Oh nothing, she replied in a sing-song voice. Just my little baby boy.
Why do Mums get these sudden moments of wanting to totally embarrass their children? I folded my arms selfconsciously. Oh Mum, stop being slushy for no reason.
Sorry, she smiled. Its just, Ive noticed how happy you are at the moment. It makes me happy.
I looked at her in mild confusion. What do you mean?
Well, you are happy arent you? You cant take the smile off your face at the moment. And judging by how often
youre out of the house lately, Im guessing that maybe youve met someone?
My whole face turned bright red. Oh God, I could not be discussing my love life with my mother! As I scrambled
to find some kind of response, she laughed out loud.
Dont worry Scotty, Im not going to ask for any of the gory details. I just want you to know that as long as this
someone is treating you right, then Im happy. Are they treating you right?
I blushed more and gave a timid nod.
And youre taking precautions?
MUM! PLEASE DONT MAKE ME TALK ABOUT THIS.
She held her hands up. OK, OK! Im just saying You do know all about being safe dont you? Youre making
sure you
YES. YES, MOTHER.
OK, well. Good. Im glad we got this little talk out of the way.
I tried to go back to my work as if the previous conversation had all been a horrifying dream. My Mum kept
lingering in the doorway.
Mum, is there something else you want to add? Lets just get it over with shall we?
She looked at me with big, sentimental eyes. When youre ready to talk about someone Youll make sure
you bring them round for dinner wont you? Because I would love to meet them.
I smiled at her, feeling waves of real affection suddenly crash over me.
Of course I will Mum.
---

A month sounds like such a long time

But when its filled with so many moments of joy, it can go so very quickly.

Chapter 30
Love And Passion
I still cant believe it, I said as I widened my eyes at Vincent.
He looked at me from the other side of the table. Believe what Specs?
I smirked. That we are genuinely both wearing ties! When do either of us ever wear ties?!
We were sitting in the corner of a very nice Italian restaurant on the outskirts of Havensdale called Bello. It was
the kind of place where you had to be dressed up properly to enter and it was quite pricey, but Vincent and I had
decided to save up a little each week to come here for our one month anniversary. I still received bits of pocket
money from various family members and Vincent had taken cash out of the monthly allowance from his Dad.
As soon as I saw the prices on the menu, however, I started to feel guilty about splurging our little amount of
money on one meal.
Woah, Ive just seen how much some of this stuff is Are you sure you dont want to go to Burger King
instead?
Vincent laughed. Aw come on Scotty, I thought we were going to do something special!
OK, I relented. Seeing as its a special occasion.
He smiled and reached for my hand across the table. Even after all these weeks, his touch still sent delicious
chills all the way through me. He was dressed so smartly and I just wanted to abandon dinner and kiss his face
off instead.
I cant get over the fact its been a whole month, I mused as I squeezed his hand.
I know right? Vincent replied. I guess this makes us boyfriends or something now?
His eyes were teasing and I made a face at him. The truth was that neither of us had really put any kind of label
on our relationship, even though it was fairly obvious what was happening by now. We only realised a month had
gone by at all during a random conversation the week before about our first trip to the record store together. We
had both been surprised that time had gone by so quickly. It seemed like we should mark the occasion in some
way, so we booked the nicest place we could think of for a celebratory dinner.
The waiter came over and took our orders, then we chatted as we waited for our food. There was a candle
flickering between us, casting a romantic orange glow over Vincents face. If someone had told me at the start of
the year that I would ever be holding hands over a table at Bello with Vincent Hunter, I would never have believed
them. Part of me still didnt believe it. I was almost scared to be this incredibly happy, because it felt far too good
to be true.
When our food came out it looked absolutely delicious. Vincent had ordered a gourmet pizza and I had a tomato
and chicken pasta. I carried on our conversation as I chowed down.

Its not long until Easter now is it? Its going to be so good to finally have some time off. Maybe I should get a
part-time job, then we can afford to travel somewhere nicer than Havensdale.
Vincent smiled. Yeah, that would be great. But you need to focus on your exams. Actually, so do I Plus the
showcase gig is in the Easter holidays.
Oh my God, is it really that soon? I exclaimed, amid a forkful of pasta.
Vincent was now grinning inanely at me from the other side of the table. Um, Specs You appear to have
missed your mouth.
I glanced tentatively down at myself and realised I had managed to spill tomato sauce all down my nice white
shirt. Oh no! I should have known talking and eating was too much of a multi-task for me!
I started dabbing the stain with my napkin and it just got worse, spreading out all over my chest. Vincent was in
hysterics.
Nooo! Its not funny!
Yes. It is.
Its not, its so embarrassing! Why do I always make such a fool of my
God, I fucking love you.
His words interrupted mine and I wasnt sure Id heard him right. My head snapped up.
Wait, what did you just say?
Vincent covered his mouth with his hand. He looked uncharacteristically flustered.
Nothing I I mean, just go and clean yourself up already!
If I wasnt mistaken, there was a slight blush creeping across his face. Had he just accidentally said what I
thought hed said?! He looked mortified, but my heart was bursting with joy at the words that had just slipped out
of his mouth.
I decided not to draw too much attention to the moment. Not if he didnt want me to.
OK, Ill just go wash this off then, I said as I stood up to head for the loos. When I turned around from him, I
couldnt stop a jubilant smile from spreading widely across my whole face.
--It didnt matter how much I scrubbed at the tomato sauce on my shirt, it was not budging. I looked utterly
ridiculous. But I didnt care. Not after what Vincent had just said.
I positively skipped out of the restaurant toilets, feeling on top of the world. Then as I rounded the corner, my
stomach dropped.

The waiter from earlier was leading a young couple to a table a few rows away from us. They were around my
age and dressed very sharply. The guy had short, blonde hair spiked up and the girl had long hair in a high
ponytail, with a somewhat horsey demeanour about her
Oh my God, is that Scotty Williams over there?!
Patricia looked over to me and pointed. Taylor turned and caught my eye, a look of alarm crossing over his face. I
guess he was just about as thrilled to see me as I was to see him, particularly after our last conversation, which I
believe went along the lines of I think about you when Im sleeping with my girlfriend. Talk about awkward.
I tried to pretend that I hadnt seen him, ducking my head down and walking swiftly back to my table. I heard
Patricias plummy voice ringing out behind me.
No WAY! Thats not Vincent Hunter hes with?!
I couldnt help but glance back at them. Patricia was leaning over and whispering salaciously about me. Taylor
was looking toward Vincent with a dark expression on his face. I turned back around quickly and scurried over to
my seat.
Vincent hadnt noticed the commotion and smiled when he saw me approaching in my tomato-splattered shirt.
Oh, jeez Scotty, I think you just made it ten times worse!
I sat down hastily and leant toward him, speaking in an urgent whisper.
Vincent, Ive just seen Taylor Raven and his girlfriend. Theyre sat right behind us and theyve seen us together.
Vincent looked past my shoulder and spotted them. Oh Shit.
We never thought we would bump into anyone we knew at Bello, seeing as how it was so nice and just outside of
town. However, it didnt surprise me that the likes of Taylor and Patricia would come here too. Especially
considering how rich they were. I was kicking myself for not being more cautious.
What are we going to do? I whispered.
Hey, its OK, Vincent replied. Im here. I wont let him start any trouble. He wouldnt dare.
He wasnt quite catching my drift. No, I mean Theyve SEEN us. TOGETHER.
Vincent shrugged and carried on eating his pizza. And? So what if theyve seen us. Who cares?
I looked back again and Patricia was still gossiping and pointing at us. Taylor had his head down, focusing
intently on his menu.
What if they tell everyone at college?
Vincent looked straight into my eyes, holding my gaze intently. Scotty, maybe its time everyone found out. I dont
want to keep hiding it anymore. If they tell people, then I really dont care. He paused. Unless Does it bother
you?

The worried look on my face instantly softened. Of course not.

Suddenly, I didnt even know why I was letting this secret overwhelm me so much. Most of our friends had
guessed something was going on by now and I didnt care what anyone else thought. Well, apart from one
person.
Im just Im worried about telling Alexis. I dont think shes going to take it very well.
She isnt, Vincent replied bluntly. But, shes my best friend. I cant keep lying to her. And surely you must want
to tell Olive the truth as well?
I bit my lip guiltily. Vincents face became totally deadpan.
She already knows, doesnt she?
I nodded slowly, my cheeks glowing.
Oh, come on Scotty, Vincent scolded. Seriously. Alexis cant be the last person to find out. Im sick of lying to
everyone all the time. I just want people to know how much I lo
He stopped himself mid-sentence.
How much I like being with you and everything...
Despite the fact that we were bickering and that my worst enemy was sitting right behind us and that the
impending doom of telling Alexis the truth was lurking over me like a dark cloud, I couldnt fight the urge to grab
both of Vincents hands lovingly in mine. I was not letting this go twice in a night.
Vincent, its OK. Me too.
He gave me a puzzled look and I squeezed his hand harder.
I love you too. I really love you.
The words tumbled out so easily and as soon as they did, I knew I meant them with my whole heart. Vincent
seemed a little taken aback.
Y-you heard me earlier?
I smiled at him. Well, obviously.
Oh God Scotty, I didnt mean to blurt it out like that, I just couldnt help myself. I know its really soon, dont feel
like you have to say it back just because
Vincent, I interrupted. I. Love. You.
He studied my face, seeming uncertain if I was playing some kind of joke on him. When he realised I was being
serious, his face broke into a huge beam.

Oh, Specs...
He leant across the table and kissed me. The whole restaurant saw us, including Taylor and Patricia, but I
couldnt have cared less.
--The rest of the meal was amazing and by the end, both my stomach and my heart were full to the brim. I didnt
even glance at Taylor and Patricia on the way out. All I could see and think about was Vincent and how much he
meant to me.
He drove us back to Havensdale and we decided on the way that we would break the news to Alexis the
following day before she heard any rumours at college on Monday. It was both terrifying and exhilarating to think
that everyone would finally know the truth.
Vincent was soon approaching my house in the car and I didnt want the night to come to an end.
I wish I didnt have to go yet.
Vincent stopped the engine. I know. But isnt your Mum expecting you back now?
I took my phone out of my pocket and started fiddling with it. I could text her. Tell her Im staying out tonight
There was a silence and I could practically hear the pounding of both our hearts echoing around the confined
space of the car.
OK. Do you want to come back to mine?
--The moment we entered Vincents flat, we were both overcome with passion. I wrapped my arms around his tall
frame, kissing him forcefully. He kissed back with equal intensity, pulling me closely into the warmth of his body
and running his hands under my shirt and across my back.
We stumbled onto the sofa in the living room, where I found myself pinned down under Vincents weight. He
growled huskily into my ear.
Maybe we should stop Scotty. I dont know if I can hold back any longer.
My fingers were shaking from adrenaline, but I somehow managed to start unbuttoning his shirt.
I dont want you to hold back.
He gasped at my touch and started to grab at my tie, slowly untying it. Are you sure? We can stop if youre still
not ready.
Vincent. Im ready. Ive never been more ready.

He kissed me, long and deep. I was fairly sure I was going to self-combust if we waited a second longer. Then I
heard my Mums words about protection ringing in my ears. Unlike the last time Id been in this situation, Vincent
had a past and Id promised I would stay safe.
Have you have you got a
Vincent nodded in between ferocious kisses. I breathed a sigh of relief and shut my eyes tightly, letting whole
new sensations wash right over me.
I love you, Scotty, Vincent whispered, nuzzling passionately against my neck. Then he took both my hands and
led me toward his bedroom, peeling off my shirt and belt before we even reached the door.
Can we go gentle? I heard myself saying quietly as we reached the doorway.
Of course we can.
He kissed me more softly, stroking my cheeks with a firm but tender touch.
Then he shut the door and every care I had ever held simply melted into the night.

Chapter 31
Guess Whos Coming To Ruin Breakfast?
I woke up to the smell of bacon, which was drifting in through the open door in front of me. I blinked a few times,
trying to work out where I was. The walls were dark and covered in rock music posters.
Then I remembered. I was in Vincents room. In his bed, in fact. We had spent last night together and it had been
everything I ever hoped it would be. Then I had fallen asleep in his arms, lost in absolute bliss.
I was now curled up alone in his navy blue sheets. I grabbed my trousers, which were strewn across the floor and
wandered into the living room to find where the mouth-watering smell was coming from.
Vincent was standing shirtless in the kitchen, pouring the contents of a frying pan onto a plate. He jumped a little
when he saw me appear in the doorway.
Fuck, Scotty! You scared me!
Sorry! I laughed. Whatever youre cooking must have woken me up, it smells amazing!
I was just about to bring you a cooked breakfast in bed, Vincent said. So youd better get your sexy little bum
back into it this instant.
I flushed red. Vincent
He pointed the spatula he was holding in my direction. Youd better not disobey me, Specs.
No Sir, I retorted sarcastically, making my way back into Vincents bedroom. He followed after me, carrying two
plates in with him. Hed made a full English breakfast complete with fried bread and a side of orange juice. We
sat up eating in bed, not caring about getting crumbs all over the duvet.
I feel spoilt now, I murmured as I broke the yolk of my fried egg. You didnt have to go to this much effort.
Nothing is too much effort for you, Vincent replied with a wink. He had never looked more gorgeous to me with
his ruffled, bedhead hair and his sleepy smile. He ran a hand along the side of my face, grinning stupidly at me.
We had both reached a whole new level of intimacy with one another, creating a warm, invisible glow which was
now radiating around us. It was beyond perfection.
After we finished breakfast, Vincent stood up and grabbed a towel from his wardrobe. Im just going to jump in
the shower, since I smell like a frying pan now.
I started gathering up our empty plates. Ill clean all these crumbs up.
He snatched the plates out of my hand and pushed me playfully back into bed. Dont you dare. You will stay right
there under the covers until Im done. He leaned over and kissed me. It was long and lingering, tempting me to
pull him right back under the covers with me
For fuck sake Specs, stop trying to seduce me.

He pulled away grinning and walked out toward the bathroom. I watched him as he left the room, then collapsed
back onto the bed, heaving a massive sigh of contentment.
--Buzzz. Buzzzzzz.
I had just been drifting back to sleep when a loud, vicious buzzing sound woke me right back up again. I looked
around the room in a state of confusion.
Buzzbuzzbuzzbuzzzzzzz.
It was coming from the living room. I called out for Vincent, but the shower was running loudly and he couldnt
hear me.
BUUUUUZZZZZZZZZZ!!!!!
I got out of bed and wandered toward the incessant noise. Eventually, I realised it was coming from Vincents
intercom on the wall. Whoever was on the end of the line was being very insistent, so without really thinking, I
picked up the receiver.
FINALLY! What the hell took you so long? Hungover or something?
I froze. Even though I couldnt see her face, I knew exactly who was speaking.
Vincent? Are you there? Are you going to let me up or what?!
In a blind panic, I slammed down the receiver. It instantly started buzzing again. I tried calling out for Vincent one
more time, but he still couldnt hear me over the running water. I had no idea what to do and the buzzing was
getting longer and longer.
I picked up the receiver for a second time.
Whats going on? Can you actually hear me?! Ive got my bass, I thought we could go over the set now, since we
couldnt do it last night.
I didnt dare say anything back. Instead, I accepted the fact this situation was genuinely about to happen and
pressed the button to let Alexis into the flat. I heard the door slam open on the end of the line as she entered the
building.
Shit, I muttered under my breath. I was still half asleep and half naked. I searched around frantically for
something to cover my dignity and found Vincents smart, white shirt from the night before lying on the floor. I
picked it up and hurriedly put it on, despite the fact it was all crumpled and about two sizes too big for me. Alexis
would be at the door at any second, so it would have to do.
Sure enough, I had barely buttoned up the shirt when there was a loud banging from the hallway. Alexis was
practically knocking the door down and after a while she started shouting through the letterbox.
VINCENT! What is up with you? Let me the fuck in!

I was hoping that Vincent would finish his shower soon and wondered if I could avoid answering the door until he
was out. Unfortunately, Alexis was peering through the open letterbox and caught a glimpse of me in the white
shirt.
I can see you Vince, stop messing about!
Vincents flat was pretty small and there was nowhere to hide from her. I had to be a grown up and face her. I
braced myself as I walked the few steps from the living room to the interconnecting hallway and opened the front
door.
AT LAST, I was starting to think you
Alexis stopped abruptly, suddenly taking in that I wasnt Vincent. Her black-lined eyes turned wide and wild,
scanning me from head to toe. She took a few deep breaths then spoke in a small, tense voice. Oh. Its you.
I had never felt more awkward in my entire life.
Um, yeah Sorry, Vincents in the shower Do you want to? I gestured for her to enter the flat. She stormed
in without saying a word, her bass guitar slung over her back.
For a few moments, we stood in uncomfortable silence. I could see that Alexiss cheeks were burning red and her
eyes were darting suspiciously around the room, taking in every little inch of evidence.
The crumb-covered sheets in Vincents bedroom with two empty plates beside them.
The random items of clothing that were still strewn across the floor.
My presence in this room was everywhere and I could see the pieces clicking into place in her head as she took
in the scene. I was beginning to feel like Vincents mistress who had just been caught out by the wife.
Finally, she turned to me, her eyes burning like fire. Whats all this about? Whats going on?
I took a shaky breath, but no words came to me. I really didnt know what to say. I wished I had just left her
downstairs buzzing on the door because it would have been much easier to handle than this excruciating
confrontation.
I thought Vincent was seeing his cousin last night? she continued. I dont understand.
Vincent usually had band practice with Alexis on a Saturday night, so he had used his cousin coming to town as
an excuse to get out of it. Hed said he wanted to talk to him about family stuff and would be out all night. Its true
that Vincent really did have a cousin he spoke to from out of town, but, of course, the part about him coming to
Havensdale had been totally untrue.
I leaned against the back of Vincents sofa, wringing my hands together nervously. Listen Alexis, I think we
should wait for Vincent and then all talk about this together.
At the mention of Vincents name, Alexis was pushed over the edge. She dropped her bass guitar on the floor
and charged up to me angrily.

Who the fuck do you think you are?! Dont talk about him like you know him!
I didnt retaliate, and instead answered in a gentle tone. OK, just calm down Alexis
Her gaze travelled to the shirt I was wearing. And why are you wearing Vincents shirt?! I bought that shirt for
him! It doesnt belong to you!
She reached out and began snatching at the material on my back. I tried to block her from touching me.
What the hell are you doing?! Just calm down!
She started getting angrier. STOP TELLING ME TO CALM DOWN! Her voice was now bellowing as she
scratched at me like a thing possessed. Get it off GET IT THE FUCK OFF!
She tore at my shoulder, ripping the shirt off my back and dragging her sharp, black polished nails across my skin
in the process. Pain seared through me cuttingly, and as she wrenched the rest of the shirt off me, it was stained
with spots of my blood.
I ran a hand across my now bare shoulder, feeling the grooves of Alexiss clawing. She was standing with the
shirt in tatters in her hands. I think she seemed a little shocked by her own actions, but she wasnt backing down.
Something in me snapped.
Oh well done, are you happy now? Youve gone and ruined it. You know what Alexis, you can rip up a shirt, but
you are NOT ruining what I have with Vincent! Weve got something special together so just bloody well accept
it!
Her nostrils flared in anger. Shut up! SHUT UP!
She launched herself at me, shoving me with all her might in a hysterical fit. Seeing red, I pushed her back with
as much strength as I could muster. She toppled backward and fell over with a painful sounding thud, letting out a
sharp squeal as her body hit the floor. I was so angry that I honestly felt glad she had hurt herself.
It was at that precise moment that Vincent came marching in from the bathroom, looking thoroughly bewildered at
the commotion that was going on. His towel was wrapped around his waist and trickles of water glistened across
his bare torso.
What in Gods name is going on? Alexis, what are you doing here?
He looked between the two of us in horror. Alexis was sprawled across the living room floor and started clutching
at her arm dramatically.
Owww, Vincent He hit me! It hurts so much
She was forcing tears to come to her eyes and Vincent looked stunned. He turned toward me.
Scotty, you hit her?!
No I didnt! I answered defensively. I cant believe you would even ask me that! She was the one attacking me.
Look!

I turned my shoulder to Vincents line of vision, pointing out the massive claw marks that were still dribbling
specks of blood down my back. I saw his face turn ashen as he moved a little closer to inspect the scratches.
Alexis was still wailing on the floor.
Vincent, he hurt me! You have to believe me, Im your BEST FRIEND!
I saw Vincents eyes flit between us. He looked at Alexis, crying her heart out in a heap. He looked at me, angry
and shaking as I stood over her. He looked back to Alexis. I waited for the inevitable. For him to side with the girl
who had always been there for him. He opened his mouth to speak.
Alexis, I dont know whats going on here, and Im sorry you had to find out like this but I think youd better go.
My heart jolted with surprise. Alexis looked shell-shocked.
Whwhat?!
Vincent shot her a steely glare. Dont make me ask you again.
Her tears instantly evaporated, replaced instead with a scorching fury emblazoned across her whole face. She
stood up angrily, yanking her guitar back onto her back.
Fine! Side with him then! She gestured madly toward me, her voice filled with disgust. Never mind the fact Ive
been there for you when everyone else fucking abandoned you. Apparently you dont understand a little thing
called LOYALTY. How long have you been lying right to my face then? Bet you think Im a right MUG, dont you?!
Vincent didnt respond in any way to her angry diatribe. He merely pointed heatedly at the door. Just get out!
FINE! she yelled. She stormed out to the hallway, then looked back at the both of us with a cruel glint in her
eye.
You think your little Scotty is so fucking perfect, but I know for a fact he isnt! So dont come crying to me when it
all falls apart!
She huffed out, slamming the door behind her so hard that the entire flat shook from the impact.

Chapter 32
The Rumour Mill
I winced as Vincent rubbed a handful of antiseptic cream into my shoulder.
Oh, fuck Scotty, she really slashed you.
Its fine, I mumbled. Its not as bad as it looks.
It wasnt fine. In any way, shape or form. But I didnt know what else to say. At the end of the day, Alexis was
Vincents best friend and more importantly, his bandmate. They had their showcase night coming up and it meant
so much to both of them. We had to find some kind of solution to this emotionally charged situation. Me lashing
out and getting angry wasnt going to help anything.
But God, was I angry! How dare that stupid little girl come crashing in after my perfect night and act the way she
did I know finding out about me and Vincent must have been a bit of a shock for her, but there was no need for
a reaction like that. She really was psychopathic. And I had no idea what shed been going on about when she
left the flat either. I figured she was just spouting whatever crap she could think of in a last-ditch attempt to hurt
me.
After Vincent finished tending to my wound, he let out a frustrated grunt and angrily kicked over the wooden
coffee table in the living room. The action startled me and I jumped a little.
Sorry Scotty. Im just so pissed off.
It looked like I wasnt the only one who was angry. Vincent was positively seething. He sank onto the sofa with his
head in his hands.
What am I supposed to do now? Youre my boyfriend and she attacked you. That is NOT OK. He let out a
pained sigh. I think maybe I should cancel the showcase. I cant play music with her like this.
I joined him on the sofa, taking his hands and interlocking my fingers with his. You cant do that Vincent, its too
important to you. Shes just freaking out because she loves you so much. I probably would have done the same
thing to her if the tables were turned.
He raised an eyebrow at me.
OK, youre right. I would never use someone else as a scratching post. I paused. I just dont have the nails for
it. I pulled my hand away from his and wiggled my fingers theatrically.
Vincent groaned. Specs, stop being so fucking good-natured. You should be furious about this.
I am, I replied honestly. But what good is that going to do? We have to sort it out somehow. I think you should
leave it a day and then try and talk to her.
I guess so, Vincent murmured. Then he moved in close to me, his voice a soft whisper. I cant bear anyone
hurting you. Do you even realise how much I care about you?

I closed my eyes and remembered our night together. Vincents gentle touch on my skin and the overwhelming
closeness between us.
I think I have some idea, I answered.
He brought a hand to my face and kissed me like I was the most delicate thing to ever cross his lips.
--At college the next day, the truth was out and rumours were flying everywhere. I knew they would be and I was
preparing myself for the worst. I didnt quite realise, however, just how much of a scandal it was to be seen
kissing Vincent Hunter in public. Apparently there was nothing else interesting going on in Havensdale, because
we were the subject of conversation in every room and down every corridor.
I had no idea that Vincent Hunter was gay. He doesnt even look gay! I wanted to ask him out and everything,
this is so unfair!
Oh yuck, thats gross! I dont even want to think about those two together, it makes me feel sick! Scotty is one
thing, but its just unnatural that Vincent is into other guys.
Isnt that the guy who goes out with that grungy looking girl? I thought they were a thing? Do you think hes bi?
Oh my God, Vincent and Scotty? That is HOT! Which one do you think is like, the girl of the relationship, or
whatever?
Scotty Williams? Really?! Why the hell would he go for someone like that? That guy is a nerd. I thought Vincent
was actually cool! What the fuck is going on?!
NO WAY is he gay. I dont believe it I bet Scotty just started the rumour himself because he fancies him. What
a loser!
It was pretty awkward to know everyone was talking about us, but at the same time, I didnt really care. I was
used to these kinds of horrible, embarrassing situations. I knew from experience that it would all blow over fairly
soon and be replaced by some other juicy gossip about someone else. It was just the way of the Havensdale
Rumour Mill.
I only hoped that Vincent would be able to take the heat. Everyone already knew I was gay, but it was big news
that the schools resident rock star was into other guys.
Particularly when the other guy in question was me.
--At lunchtime, I did my best to dodge all the gossipers and went to sit in the cafeteria by myself. I was shortly
joined by Olive, who came crashing hastily out of nowhere onto my table. She appeared to be in a total flap.
Scotty, I dont know how everyone knows about you and Vincent But I promise you, I didnt say anything to
anyone! You have to believe me!

She looked ridiculously distressed about the whole situation. I reached over and patted her hand. I know. Dont
worry. I know exactly who it was that told the whole bloody school.
I preceded to tell her the whole story about bumping into Taylor and Patricia at Bello. She listened intently, her
blue eyes widening in shock.
That absolute BASTARD! Hasnt he tortured you enough by now?! Why did he go and tell everyone?!
I sighed. I dont know, maybe because its a big old scandal that makes things difficult for me? I think Patricia
probably had a big hand in spreading it all over the school
Olive clenched her fists on the table. I HATE that girl! Actually I hate both of them. They had no right!
I forced a smile. Its fine, honestly. I was prepared for it. In fact, theyve done us a favour! Now we dont have to
hide our relationship anymore. Its about time people knew how much me and Vincent love each other.
Olive raised her eyebrows in surprise. Love? Hey, hang on. Has THE L WORD been used now?! She opened
her mouth in a mischievous expression of mock shock.
My eyes glanced coyly to the table. Um, possibly
Oh my God! she squealed. Damn it Scotty, I want to stay and hear every detail but Ive got to go to a mentoring
session. Can I come to yours tonight so you can tell me properly?
I nodded. Sure. Theres plenty to tell you.
I think she must have caught the colour in my face because her jaw dropped at my words.
Wait LOTS to tell me? You didnt Did you and Vincent? DID YOU?!
Her eyes were bugging maniacally out of her sockets. I turned my gaze away, feeling incredibly self-conscious all
of a sudden. Um. Possssibbbllllyyy.
Olive gasped so loudly it echoed around the whole of the cafeteria, causing a few students nearby to look over at
us.
Scotty Jonathan Williams, you DIDNT!
I kept my eyesight locked on the table and spoke in a small voice. Hey, dont say it like that. It wasnt something
we rushed into or anything It just felt right
She looked shocked, but after a few moments she smiled warmly at me. Olive was a bit of a prude, but she was
also a romantic.
Well, I hope youre going to tell me everything. I mean, maybe not EVERYTHING where thats concerned, but
you know the edited highlights.
I laughed. Of course I will. See you after college?

You bet, she answered with a wink.

--After Olive left for her mentoring session, I pulled my phone out to message Vincent. He had a few lessons on a
Monday and I was hoping that the school gossip wasnt making him feel too uncomfortable. I wrote a quick text
and hit send.
It looks like we are the most interesting scandal to ever happen to this school. You holding up OK? X
It wasnt very long before I had a reply back.
Ha, it makes a change from being known as the guy with the psycho Dad. I think I prefer it. Xxx
I smiled at his words. Nothing ever seemed to phase Vincent. Before I had a chance to answer him, my phone
buzzed for a second time.
PS. Are you OK? If anyone gives you any trouble I will beat them. Xxx
I actually laughed out loud when I read the message. Then I sent a reply, deciding to ask the question that had
been on my mind all morning.
Im fine. No need for beatings. Have you spoken to Alexis at all? X
It had been over twenty-four hours since she attacked me and neither of us had heard anything from her.
However, Vincent was sure to have lessons with her in the afternoon. After about five minutes, my phone vibrated
in reply.
I think shes around but she skipped Music Tech. She must be scared to face me. Ive told her to meet me by our
tree at the end of the day, going to try and sort this out once and for all. Xxx
My heart started thumping as I read the text. I had no idea what Vincent was planning on saying to Alexis, but he
sounded pretty determined. I just hoped that he would know what to do to finally put an end to her awful
behaviour.
I started packing up the remains of my lunch as I mulled over what to reply. Then another text buzzed through.
By the way, I love you. Xxx
A delectable shiver ran right through me from the top of my head to the tips of my toes. I replied back instantly.
Not as much as I love you. Xxx
--The rest of the days lessons went by in a blur. My classmates were still whispering about me whenever I walked
into a crowded room, but my heart was so full that I barely even noticed them. I was fairly sure my lack of
reaction was causing the gossip to die down more quickly than if I was to start addressing the rumours. I knew

that by the end of the week, Vincent and I would be old news. Then we could just get on with being together and
everything would be perfect.
As the day drew to a close, I headed down the main corridor leading to the reception area. I couldnt wait to meet
up with Olive and tell her about everything that had happened over the course of the weekend.
Just as I was rounding the corner, I saw a familiar figure on the opposite side of the hallway. Even from a
distance, I recognised the blonde spiked hair and arrogant stride immediately. Our eyes locked and suddenly
Taylor grabbed me tightly around the wrist, dragging me up the hallway. I shouted out in anger.
What are you doing? Let go of me!
He was alone and wearing his bright white P.E. gear, with a tennis racket slung over his shoulder in a bag. He
manoeuvred me roughly into the nearby changing rooms which luckily happened to be empty. As soon as we
were inside, he pushed me against the wall. His eyes looked watery and his voice was a howl of despair.
How long have you been seeing him?!
I pushed him right back.
Its none of your business!
He didnt retaliate. He had a stunned look on his face, like a little boy who had just been told off by his favourite
teacher.
Thanks for letting Patricia tell the whole school, by the way, I added sardonically. At least now we dont have to
hide it anymore.
Taylor looked visibly pained. He gripped the bag containing his tennis racket, his knuckles going white.
Youre only with him to hurt me arent you? Because I hurt you.
I let out a frustrated groan. For Gods sake Taylor, not everything comes back to you! Im with Vincent because I
love him.
Taylor flinched. Dont say that.
Well, its true, I cried. Im in love with him! Do you understand that? So please just leave me alone and let me
get on with my life already!
I didnt have any inclination to keep justifying myself to someone who didnt deserve a second more of my time. I
stormed out of the changing room, barging past Taylor, who was now not even trying to disguise his tears. A tiny
part of me felt compassion toward him. He was my first love and whatever he acted like in front of his gang, he
was obviously taking this hard. But I only had to remember everything he had put me through all year and that
small flicker of empathy soon died away.
I heard the sound of him punching the door furiously as I slammed it closed on him. I held my head high and
didnt glance back once as I headed out of the building.

Chapter 33
Eavesdropping
My mind was racing as I stormed out of school. I couldnt believe the nerve of Taylor. After everything he had put
me through, did he honestly think there was still some kind of chance for him to be with me? Or was he just so
arrogant, he thought I would never meet anybody else who compared to him?
He needed to realise the truth, which was that being with Vincent was effortlessly better than anything Id ever felt
in the past. Vincent was open and loving, and he was giving me everything that I wanted in a relationship. I
deserved to be treated with respect and to be happy. I was not letting anyone ruin it for me. Not Alexis and
certainly not Taylor Raven.
My thoughts drifted to Alexis. Vincent had told me he was meeting her after his classes finished. I couldnt help
but walk out through the courtyard in order to catch a glimpse of the big tree and see if the two of them were
talking underneath it.
Sure enough, Vincent was leaning against the tree trunk, obviously waiting for Alexis. He looked totally calm on
the outside, but I could tell he was anxious, as he was smoking a cigarette and drumming his fingers against his
leg.
I was quite far away from him and he couldnt see me. I contemplated approaching the tree, but just as the
thought crossed my mind, Alexis came sloping toward Vincent from the opposite side of the courtyard. I hid
behind the nearest edge of the school building so neither of them could see me. I couldnt see what was
happening, but I could hear every word. Alexis spoke first, her voice barbed and defensive.
Go on then, have a go at me. Just get it over with already.
There was a long pause. I felt a bit bad about eavesdropping on the conversation, but I couldnt help but listen in.
Vincents tone was calm when he finally spoke.
Alexis, I know this is hard for you. Youre my best friend and I never set out to hurt you. But Im not putting up
with your shit over this. Scotty means so much to me. Dont you want me to be happy?
Alexis replied back in a whine. Of course I want you to be happy! But why does it have to be with him?!
You dont have to understand why, Vincent answered firmly. You just have to accept it.
There was another pause. My heart was thumping nervously, unsure how the rest of this scenario was going to
pan out. Alexis spoke again.
Well, what if I cant? Because this is fucking killing me, Vincent...
It felt weird to hear her speaking her feelings out loud. Hot jealousy started to throb through my veins. I tried to
ignore the feeling and just hoped it would pass quickly.
If you cant start being a little more civil, Vincent continued from beside the tree, then well have to cool it.

Alexis replied in a worried screech. But what about our music?!

There was another silence, where I assumed Vincent was giving one of his usual nonchalant shrugs.
I cant be in a band with someone who wont support my relationship.
It sounded like Alexis was starting to cry. Why are you doing this to me? Why cant we just go back to the way
things were before? Havent you heard the crap everyones been saying about you today?! I dont get why any of
this is happening!
Vincent gave a hefty sigh. Alexis, you knew I was going to meet someone eventually. And Im ready for people to
know now. This isnt just some little fling that doesnt mean anything. I love Scotty. I think we might actually have
a future together.
His words left me feeling electric. We hadnt spoken to each other about the future just yet, but I knew I wanted
something long-term with Vincent. Hearing that he felt the same way was so wonderful, it was all I could do not to
burst out from my hiding place and run into his arms then and there. I resisted the urge and kept on listening from
around the corner.
It now sounded like Alexis was sniffling a bit. Vincent gave another sigh, this one gentler than the first.
Look Al, Im sorry. I know this isnt what you want to hear, but if you care about our friendship at all then you
have to try and come to terms with it. Im not saying you have to like Scotty, but you cant go shredding him to
pieces as soon as my back is turned. Its just horrible. And youre better than that. I mean, I know you can be a
fucking pain in the arse sometimes, but youre not horrible.
Alexis laughed through her tears and I could hear some scuffling sounds. Shut UP! Youre such a patronising
bastard!
I peeked around the corner and saw her punching Vincent playfully in the arm. He didnt respond in a jokey way,
instead he looked incredibly serious.
So this ends now, OK? I dont want any more repeats of what happened yesterday.
It was hard to hear Alexiss reply due to her mumbling, but I just about made it out.
Well, maybe you shouldnt have lied to me all this time
Her voice was small and bitter, like a child trying to defy a grown up.
Im sorry I lied to you, Vincent answered plainly. Im honestly sorry Al. But after your little stunt, I dont regret it.
His words must have been like bullets to Alexis. All of her obstinate bravado seemed to disintegrate on the spot.
Im sorry, alright? I was hurt and angry But it was wrong. Can we please forget about it now?
I watched Vincent stub out his cigarette on the trunk of the tree and exhale a stream of smoke. You have to say
sorry to Scotty.

What the fuck am I supposed to say?! Alexis exclaimed in exasperation. Oh, Im really sorry I clawed your back
to pieces, I hope you can forgive me?!
Yeah, that would be a good start.
Alexis shoved her hands into the pockets of her gothic looking leather jacket. Fine. Ill say something when I next
see him.
I was tempted to go running over at that point and reveal myself, but I thought it would probably do more harm
than good. I have to admit that I was surprised to hear Alexis being so compliant. I thought for sure she would
have flown off the handle and demanded that Vincent break up with me or something. She obviously cared a
great deal for him, which was annoying as it made me almost want to forgive her.
A few moments passed, then she addressed Vincent in a quiet tone.
Do you want to go back to yours then? Maybe we can hang out for a bit?
Lets just leave it for a while, Vincent replied bluntly.
Alexis hung her head down, defeated. OK I guess Ill see you tomorrow then.
Yeah. Talk to you later.
It was clear that the conversation was closed. Alexis dug her hands deeper into her pockets and stalked across
the courtyard to the exit. Vincent purposely headed the opposite way, which just so happened to be the direction I
was currently standing in.
I tried to look casual as he came closer to me, as if I always stood hanging around the corners of buildings for no
particular reason. He did a double take as he walked right past me.
Scotty? What are you?
I fumbled around with my rucksack, pretending I had stopped to look for something inside of it. Oh, Vincent!
Youre still here. What a weird coincidence.
He raised an eyebrow dubiously at me. You came out here to eavesdrop on me, didnt you?
I went a little red. Um, well, not like eavesdrop I just wondered if I might um, overhear something? I
winced at the stupidity coming out of my own mouth.
Vincent rolled his eyes. How much did you hear then?
Erm. All of it?
He looked a little annoyed, which made me feel incredibly guilty.
Im sorry Vincent! Ive just been so worried about this whole situation and I wanted to know what Alexis was
going to say But you handled it so well, you really did! I didnt mean to invade your privacy or anything, I just
I

I wasnt quite sure where I was going with my grovelling apology. I looked up anxiously at Vincent and saw that
his irritated expression had turned into an amused smirk.
Fucking hell Specs, I literally cant even take your cuteness sometimes.
I blushed and smiled awkwardly. Youre not mad?
He shook his head. Nah. Come on, Ill give you a lift home.
He grabbed hold of my hand and steered me toward the college carpark. I locked my fingers with his as we
walked along.
So I started softly. You see a future with me do you?
Vincent prickled in surprise. You heard that?
I gave a little nod as we slowly neared his car. Yeah. I did.
He turned to me, lifting his hand and gently tucking one of my dark curls behind my ear. Was that the wrong
thing to say?
I looked into his eyes. There was a trace of unease flickering across his dark pupils. I brought my hand to his
reassuringly.
Of course it wasnt. I feel the same way.
Relief spread across Vincents face and he smiled widely. Then he pushed me softly against the side of his car
and leaned in to kiss me. I wrapped my arms around his neck, pulling him as close to me as I could.
Everything was starting to fall into place. We didnt have to hide the way we felt anymore. Alexis might not have
been happy, but she was starting to calm down. And now I knew that Vincent saw a future with me. I didnt know
where we would both be in a few years time, especially with the challenge of getting into a good university, but I
was pretty sure we would figure it out together.
There was just one little problem that kept rearing its ugly head every time I found a bit of happiness. And that
problem happened to be approaching us at that very second.
Eurgh, get a fucking room you two, that is disgusting!
We both lifted up our heads, only to see Taylor Raven and his whole posse standing on the edge of the carpark.
They had obviously come from the tennis court and looked surprisingly intimidating, their hands gripping around
their rackets as though they were deadly weapons.
Somehow I got the feeling they werent here for a friendly conversation.

Chapter 34
Guilty Conscience
Vincent looked to me as Taylor, Patricia and The Brainless Baker Boys started approaching us.
Come on Scotty, lets just go.
I nodded and scurried around to the passenger side of the car. Unfortunately, we werent quite quick enough to
leave and the gang of four got to us first. Up close, I could see that Taylors eyes still looked watery from his little
breakdown earlier in the afternoon, but he was hiding it well. He examined Vincent up and down with a nasty
sneer on his face.
Well, whod have guessed it? The almighty Vincent Hunter is nothing but a little limp-wristed shirt-lifter. Guess
youre not so fucking tough now the truth is out, are you?
I saw Vincents hand clench angrily by his side, but he remained silent. Patricia piped up over Taylors shoulder in
her usual rude and haughty demeanour.
Come on then boys, tell us honestly Which one of you takes it up the arse? Or do you both take turns?
Billy and Bobby Baker both started guffawing idiotically as Patricias shrill laughter rang out beside them. Taylor
continued sneering and staring threateningly at me and Vincent. I couldnt believe the nerve of him to be coming
out with this kind of homophobic venom. It made me feel sick. They were probably the kind of thoughts he had
about himself and he was just projecting them onto us.
I could sense the sheer fury radiating off Vincent. He was obviously restraining himself to avoid being expelled,
but if Taylor and his gang kept goading him then it was clear he was going to snap. I touched his arm gently to try
and calm him down. Then I turned toward Taylor, speaking quietly but confidently.
Taylor, you and Patricia can use your ugly words and try to belittle us, but ultimately its just a reflection of you,
not us. Im so incredibly happy right now and I couldnt care less what you think about it.
Taylors face started going red and Patricias mouth opened into a giant oval. Vincent grabbed hold of my hand
and smiled proudly at me.
Nicely said, Scotty. Now lets get out of here, Ive had enough morons for one day.
Patricia started making sick noises at us.
Eww GROSS, theyre touching each other! Get a room for Gods sake! I dont want to think about you two buttfucking each other!
She carried on making retching sounds, which The Brainless Baker Boys happily joined in with. Vincent let go of
my hand and walked straight up to her.
Youre obviously acutely interested in my sex life. Is it because Taylors so crap in bed? I know that must be very
difficult for you, so Ill happily give him some tips when youre not around.

I raised my hand to my mouth in amused shock. I could not believe Vincent had just said that! Patricia stood
there flabbergasted, whilst Taylor looked like he was about to self-combust with anger. I noticed behind them that
Billy Baker was actually laughing silently at Vincents put-down. Even Patricias own allies were turning against
her now!
Seizing our moment to make a swift exit, we both got into Vincents car and he started up the engine. As we were
pulling out of the carpark, Taylor approached the vehicle with a face like thunder. He started rummaging for
something in the sports bag Patricia had been carrying.
For fucks sake! Vincent cried out, catching sight of what was in the bag. Hes got eggs!
Sure enough, there was a carton of eggs in the bag and Taylor was now arming himself with them. His plan must
have been to throw them at us in the carpark, only the situation hadnt gone quite how he and the rest of his gang
had imagined.
I watched in disbelief as an egg ferociously hit the window on my side with a loud thud. The gungy yolk was
dripping down in multiple angry stripes. Vincent gripped the steering wheel so hard his knuckles went white.
This is ridiculous, I have to get out and do something!
Thats what they want, I exclaimed. Theyre trying to push you into a fight, but dont give them the satisfaction.
Its just egg, it will wash off.
We felt the force of another hit, this time against the back of the car. It looked like Patricia was joining in with the
attack now. Vincent kept reversing and then furiously swerved the car around to the direction of the college exit.
Taylor followed us as we drove out, running alongside the car with an egg in his hand. Vincent rolled down the
window and shouted out to him.
Seriously Taylor, stop this childish shit right now or Ill fucking well run you over!
Taylor continued with his evil smirk and threw the egg he was holding with all of his might.
What happened next all seemed to go in slow motion. First of all Taylor threw the egg. Then Vincent slammed on
the brakes, causing us to come to an abrupt halt in the middle of the carpark. As the egg got closer to the open
window, Vincent caught it expertly in the palm of his hand. Then he threw it straight back at Taylor, causing the
egg to explode violently in his face. Patricia gasped out loud as she witnessed her boyfriend get covered in sticky
yolk, from the tip of his hairline to the bottom of his chin.
Do not push me, Taylor, Vincent shouted through the window. Because next time it wont just be an egg in your
face, it will be my fucking fist!
With that, he screeched the car back into life and we went roaring out of the carpark and onto the road outside
the school gates.
--We drove along in silence for a few moments. Vincent was trying to calm his temper down and I could hear him
counting to ten under his breath as he fixed his eyes solidly on the road ahead. Then he turned to me with
apologetic eyes.

Sorry Specs. I know you wanted me to handle that in a mature way.

I couldnt help but give him a lopsided grin in return. Well, yes. In an ideal world. But I have to admit, that was
pretty bloody brilliant. I mean the look on Taylors face was priceless!
Vincent let out a cry of frustration. Argh! What is that guys problem?! I just dont get it! Why is he so bothered
about what we do?
I shrugged. Hes just an idiot. Hes always hated me And after you threw water over his head, I dont suppose
hes your number one fan either.
Yeah, but the way he hounds you constantly, Vincent continued. Its like hes obsessed with you. Do you think
hes some kind of closet case?
I fiddled uncomfortably with my seatbelt. I dont know. Ive never thought about it.
Suddenly, the car was feeling like a very confined space. I looked at the trail of yolk running down the window
next to me. It made me feel nasty and sticky just looking at it. Or perhaps that was just the overpowering sense of
guilt that was beginning to consume me.
--Olive was lying flat on her back on the floor of her bedroom. I was perched on a desk chair and had just caught
her up with everything from Alexiss freak-out (and subsequent apology) to Taylor getting a face full of egg. She
was in a world of her own, trying to take it all in.
Scotty, your life has turned into some kind of soap opera.
Tell me about it, I muttered, swivelling myself round on the chair absent-mindedly.
I seriously cant get over Alexis! Who does she think she is?! Do you think shes actually going to apologise to
you?
I raised my hands up into an exaggerated shrug. I have no idea! I cant tell if shes genuinely sorry or just trying
to get back in with Vincent.
Never trust her! Olive exclaimed, pointing her finger into the air. Shes a total cow!
Well, I gathered that much, I replied. But oh, I dont know, maybe shes not all bad. Shes just really messed
up.
Olive pulled herself up from the floor to look at me directly. Hey, a lot of people have had bad things happen to
them in their past Scotty. Look at Vincent... Look at you! I know its really sad and unfair, but just because
someone has a lot to deal with, it doesnt give them the excuse to take it out on other people.
Yeah, I know, I answered.
Everyone has their own personal struggles, Olive continued. You just have to try and deal with them and not let
them define you. Actually, talking about this makes me wonder what happened to Taylor to make him so horrible.

I stopped in the middle of my chair-swivel. Yeah Something bad I guess.

All this talk of Taylor and his motives was making me feel sick. Neither Olive nor Vincent was stupid and I had the
feeling they were starting to piece the truth together. Was it just a matter of time before they discovered the one
secret I never wanted to get out?
The more I thought about everything, the more I was starting to feel like the worst person alive. I had been so
happy these last few weeks that I had pushed anything to do with Taylor to the back of my mind, locking my
secret deep down inside where it would never get out again. Only now, it was starting to resurface in my head
and I suddenly realised what kind of person I was becoming. One who lied to everyone they loved. I had
convinced myself that my relationship with Taylor was just some silly little thing that was no big deal. It was
pointless even mentioning it because it didnt even count! Who was I trying to fool? The people around me, or just
myself?
Olive broke me out of my thoughts.
His Dads a real big-shot tennis star isnt he? Not that I know much about sports, but I guess his whole family
has always been in the limelight. It must be hard to live like that. Maybe hes just miserable and hates anyone
whos actually happy. What do you think, Scotty?
OK, this was it. I was going to tell Olive. I could do this. I had to start unravelling this web of lies and I could start
by coming clean to my best friend.
I think I began, my lips trembling, that I know why Taylor acts the way he does.
Olive stared at me questioningly, her head cocked to one side. I willed myself to just say the words. Hes secretly
gay and hes scared of people finding out. I know because we were together. It wasnt so difficult to just say it out
loud, was it?
Its because of his Dad. I overheard him shouting at Taylor once on the tennis court. I think hes really hard on
him.
I inwardly cursed at myself for chickening out at the last second. I was so terrified of what Olive would think of me
when she found out Id lied to her for so many years. How was I ever supposed to tell her after all this time?!
Oh, boohoo, Taylors got Daddy issues, she replied mockingly. Thats such a stupid reason for him to be so
much of an idiot. He should feel lucky that hes got a great life ahead of him, not waste his time picking on people
just because his Dads a bit pushy.
Our conversation ambled along and we carried on talking about Taylor and the reasons for his behaviour. I was
worried that one wrong statement from me might cause Olive to be suspicious and I kept trying to change the
subject. I hated myself for being so dishonest, but I really didnt know what else to do.
Eventually, Olive stopped talking about Taylor and brought up the one topic that had obviously been burning on
her mind.
I know this is a weird question but do you feel different now?
I didnt quite catch her drift at first. What do you mean?

I mean since you and Vincent you know

I gave an embarrassed cough. Ahem, erm Well, no not really.
She flopped back down on the floor, her eyes pointing up to the ceiling. What was it like? Werent you scared
about it?
I was a little confused about all the questions, but I was happy to answer them. Well, a bit. But I knew it felt like
the right time. And you know, Vincent was so sweet and gentle to me It was everything I wanted it to be.
Im happy for you, Olive replied sincerely. But you know, its kind of strange for me. Weve known each other for
so long, its always been just the two of us And now youve got a boyfriend and youre growing up and Ive
never even so much as kissed a boy
Its not a race Ol, I chastised gently.
I know, she answered. Its just I dont want you to move on without me. Maybe youll start getting tired of me
now.
I stood up from Olives chair and laid down next to her on the floor, taking her hand in mine.
Olive, youre my best friend in the whole world. Id never get tired of you. Not in a million years.
So now definitely wasnt the best time to admit Id long since taken the road to manhood without her ever
knowing about it. If she was freaking out at the thought of me and Vincent getting it on, she would never forgive
me for Taylor.
It was then I came to the decision. She would never find out about it.
No one would. Ever.

Chapter 35
A Hot Shower And A Cold Apology
I hopped off the bus in the middle of an almighty downpour. The lovely British weather was being as crap as ever
and the torrential rain lashed viciously at my face as soon as my foot hit the pavement. It was the worst rainstorm
wed had in Havensdale for a while and although Vincents apartment was only a street away from the bus stop,
by the time I got to his I was completely drenched.
Vincent widened his eyes in surprise as he opened the door to me. Woah Specs, wheres your umbrella?
I took off my glasses which had steamed up and started to wipe them with the corner of my coat. I stupidly forgot
it. I swear the rain wasnt this bad when I left this morning!
He put his hands on my damp shoulders and kissed the top of my dripping wet head.
You should have called me. I would have picked you up.
Youd already come all the way home, I replied. Its just a bit of water, Im sure Ill live.
I caught sight of myself in the mirror hanging in Vincents hallway. I looked like a drowned rat. Our college
schedules clashed on a Tuesday and Vincent got home earlier than me, which is why Id decided to make my
own way to his place rather than have him hang around for me all afternoon. Even though it had only been a day,
I was already missing spending time with him.
I brought some DVDs over, I said cheerfully. Do you like terrible, low-budget movies with awful special effects?
Vincent grinned. Absolutely love em.
Perfect! I smiled back at him as I took off my coat. It was soaking wet and dribbling water all over the carpeted
floor.
Oh God, sorry I didnt mean to turn up completely saturated like this.
Why dont you have a shower? Vincent suggested. Warm yourself up a bit? You can even borrow a towel, Im
feeling generous.
I had to admit, a hot shower sounded incredibly tempting. I guess I could But isnt it a bit weird for me to come
over here and get straight in the shower?
Vincent smirked then went into the bathroom and started running water.
--OK, I think that should be nice and warm.
As the room steamed up, Vincent held his hand under the running shower. I had peeled off most of my sodden
clothes and was standing beside him in my boxer shorts, inspecting myself in the bathroom mirror.

Why am I so pale?! I suddenly announced. And weedy?! Oh God, Im a disgrace!

I spun around in front of the mirror, flexing my puny arms. I was really letting the side down compared to
Vincents muscular body. My appearance never really bothered me much, but the thought was now crossing my
mind that Vincent might not be completely into my, shall we say, unique look.
As I continued to stand in front of the mirror, he came up behind me and kissed me sensually on my neck.
I think youre pretty sexy.
I gave a quivering breath of excitement. Honestly? Im not too pathetic and feeble? My arms arent toned like
yours.
He spun me around to face him. His hands were firm against my shoulders and there was a mischievous glint in
his eye. That just makes it easier for me to have my way with you...
I shrieked out loud as he pulled off my glasses followed by my boxer shorts and pushed me playfully into the
shower. Then he tore his own clothes off and joined me under the stream of warm water, kissing me all across
my neckline and chest.
Water cascaded over us and I moaned softly as our bodies pressed together in the confined space. I ran my
hands across Vincents body, lovingly tracing the length of his scarred stomach. His kisses became lower and
lower until he was crouched down in front of me. I clutched at his hair, twisting my fingers frantically through his
dark locks. He pulled me into him with a tight grip and I was instantly lost inside of an intense passion I never
knew I was capable of experiencing.
--Vincent handed me a cup of tea. I was sitting on his sofa, fully dressed again but still slightly dazed from the best
shower Id ever taken in my life.
Thank you. For the tea, I mean. Actually thank you for that as well Erm, are you sure you havent done
that before?!
He joined me on the sofa and nuzzled at my ear. Mmm. No. But Im obviously a fast learner.
Vincent! I exclaimed with a blush. Jesus, I came round here for an innocent movie night and you just had to go
and seduce me
He nipped teasingly at the ear he was nuzzling and I let out a little yelp. Then he jumped up and grabbed a pile of
menus off the side of the living room dining table.
OK, seduction is over. Im hungry. What do you want to order? He threw all the leaflets at me and they landed
into my lap. I laughed and began leafing through all the different options.
Wow, you go to so many takeaways. And here I was thinking you were some kind of gourmet chef after the last
few meals.

I looked up with a teasing expression and saw Vincent was glued to his phone all of a sudden. He caught me
watching him and hastily put it back into his pocket.
What do you fancy then, Specs? Chinese or Indian?
I carried on scanning the menus, trying to push down my suspicion at what Vincent was up to.
--An hour later we were snuggled up on the sofa eating noodles from paper boxes and watching the worlds most
fake alien invasion play out onscreen.
That Taylor brat hasnt bothered you again has he? Vincent asked in between forkfuls of Chinese food.
No, I havent even seen him today. Hes a coward so hell probably back off now, after the shame of getting
egged.
Hed better back off, or hell have me to answer to.
With that, Vincents phone flashed up on the coffee table and he grabbed for it. It had flashed on and off a few
times and now and my burning curiosity was getting the better of me.
Who do you keep texting? I asked aloud. Dont tell me youre having an affair already! I said the statement as
a joke, but it accidentally came out sounding less sarcastic than I had intended it to.
Vincent tutted. Specs, dont be fucking ridiculous.
Im only joking! I answered. But I didnt know you actually had any friends to text!
I started laughing like a hyena, thinking I was being really funny with my put-down. Vincent didnt laugh back, he
was looking a little bit awkward. Then it dawned on me.
Wait. Youre texting Alexis arent you?
Yeah, Vincent replied. And shes coming over in like, five minutes.
WHAT?! I nearly spilled all the noodles out of my takeaway box.
Scotty, dont freak out. I know you probably dont want to see her, but shes coming over to apologise.
Did you plan this all along when you asked me over? I pointed my chopstick at Vincent accusingly.
He stirred his own noodles with a fork, looking down uncomfortably. Not at first. But then it seemed like the
perfect opportunity, so I messaged her.
I slumped further into the sofa in annoyance. We were having a really nice evening, I dont want her coming over
and spoiling it.

Vincent shifted up to me, brushing his fingers against my shoulder. Dont be mad Scotty. I just want us to sort all
this out. I want her to look you in the eye and say shes sorry. You deserve an apology.
My demeanour softened at Vincents touch. I could never really be mad with him.
OK. But she better mean it!
He leaned in and kissed me gently on my neck. Then he put on a silly voice that didnt sound anything like his
normal way of speaking.
I wuvvv yoouuu
Stop it. Im trying to be grumpy.
I WUUUUVVV YOOOUUUUU!
Stupid babytalk. Stupid annoyingly adorable Vincent.
--The intercom rang about ten minutes later, making me jump out of my skin. I didnt know if I was quite ready to
face Alexis just yet, considering the way our last meeting had ended up. I didnt want to forgive her at all to be
perfectly honest, but I knew it was something I just had to do for Vincents sake. Besides, I wanted to hear her
out. Maybe she was genuinely sorry and wanted to make it up to us both.
Vincent buzzed her into the flat and waited by the door for her. When she arrived she was as drenched as I had
been earlier. Her short scruff of dark hair was dripping rainwater onto the floor and her eye make-up was slowly
running down her face. She was wearing her usual all-black dress-code and clompy boots, but she didnt look
quite so intimidating when she was soaking wet.
She was ushered into the living room by Vincent where I was still sat on the sofa. She shuffled in sheepishly, not
quite able to meet my gaze. I stood up politely and approached her.
Hi Alexis.
Hi, she replied, curtly.
Vincent pointed toward the sofa and Alexis and I both sat down whilst he pulled up an extra chair from his dining
table. This all felt very formal and weird, like we were in Mrs. Patrickss office and about to be reprimanded.
Vincent took lead of the conversation. Right, lets sort this situation out once and for all. Alexis, I think youve got
something to say to Scotty.
Alexis had her head down and her hands in her lap. She was picking at her black nail polish nervously.
Im sorry, OK... she mumbled.
Alexis, Vincent snapped. I think you could at least look Scotty in the eye when youre talking to him.

She brought her head up obediently and looked at me directly. Im sorry! Im sorry I went so crazy and hurt you
like that. And for all the times Ive been rude or whatever. I didnt mean it, I was just really upset. But I dont want
us to fight anymore I just Im sorry, alright?
Its OK, I answered. I accept your apology. And Im sorry too, for keeping our relationship secret from you. We
didnt do it to upset you. I know you mean a lot to Vincent and I want us all to get along.
As I said the words out loud, I realised that I actually meant them. Despite all of her flaws, Alexis had lots of good
qualities. She was feisty and funny. She could also be incredibly immature and dramatic, but perhaps if she could
just grow up a bit then her better qualities would shine through. She was ridiculously insecure, but if I could prove
that I wasnt a threat to her friendship with Vincent then maybe we could get on with each other. We might even
end up being friends.
Look, lets just start again, I said. Forget about everything thats happened in the past. This can be our fresh
new slate.
She actually gave me a tiny little smile. Yeah, Id like that.
--We ended up talking for a short while, mainly about The Night Birds upcoming showcase gig. Alexis wasnt
exactly effusive with her conversation, but she chatted in a pleasant enough manner about picking the right
songs and all the practice that she and Vincent were putting in. It was a safe subject to stick to and I tried my best
to engage with her. I felt like I was finally making a breakthrough and that perhaps we really could put the past
behind us.
Once the topic had somewhat petered out, Alexis stood up from the sofa.
OK guys, I think Im gonna head off now.
Are you sure? I questioned. Dont feel like you have to go.
Its fine, she said bluntly. Ive said what I came here to say, so Ill let you both get back to your evening.
Vincent stood up and walked with her toward the hallway. Well, if youre sure Al We really appreciate you
coming over.
Hey, I was a total cow But hopefully I can make up for it. She turned to me and waved. See you, Scotty.
I waved back politely, but something wasnt sitting right with me anymore about this situation. Somehow Alexis
was being just that little bit too amenable. How had she gone from the super-bitch scratching my back and
warning me off Vincent to someone so friendly and supportive? I wanted to see the best in her, but something
just felt off to me.
She walked with Vincent to the front door and hugged him goodbye. I could still see them from the living room
and as Alexis was facing me, with Vincents back turned, she shot me an ice cold, steely glare.
It was so brief that I barely had time to register it, but it was a stare so venomous that I had no doubt what her
true feelings about me really were.

Chapter 36
Subject: Read Me
I decided not to tell Vincent about Alexiss hidden look. Not when things had seemed to go so well between us on
the surface. Part of me wondered if perhaps Id just imagined it anyway. Alexis always tended to have a nasty
scowl on her face, maybe I'd just caught her at the wrong angle.
Or maybe she still hated my guts and wanted to kill me.
Either way, I wasnt going to play into her little game. Vincent had made it quite clear that he wasnt going to
stand for her trying to come between us in any way. I could handle a few evil glares from her; its not like there
was much else she could do to hurt me. All I cared about was getting Vincent to his showcase night and one step
closer to his musical dreams. If it meant putting up with the obnoxious drama queen known as Alexis Mae, then it
was a small price to pay. I just hoped she wouldnt start interrupting my evenings with Vincent all the time. It
seemed like just the kind of spiteful thing she would try and do.
I put her out of my mind the following day, choosing to focus on all the wonderful things about the previous night
instead. In particular, mine and Vincents steamy shower session I found my thoughts floating away to that
moment whilst I was in the middle of lessons and had to try not to get too lost in the memory. Not while I was in
public and meant to be working.
Despite the two faces of Alexis, things were going really well and I felt unbelievably happy. I kept expecting Taylor
or Patricia to rear their ugly heads again, but they had dropped off the radar since the egging incident. I knew that
however much bravado they displayed, they were both secretly scared to death of Vincent. I think they realised
that they had pushed their limits with him and were keeping a low profile. I was just glad that Taylor had stopped
his twisted declarations of love to me. Hopefully he had got the hint and would go the hell away for good.
Taylor wasnt the only problem that had calmed down. The Havensdale College Rumour Mill was also slowly but
surely getting tired of the whole Vincents gay scandal. There were still a few people around the school who
were making a big deal about it, but for the most part everyone was bored of the revelation and had moved on to
other gossip. Apparently one of the girls in year 10 had just had a pregnancy scare and that was far more
pressing news than Vincent getting it on with the nerd in the lower sixth. I have to say I was actually a little bit
disappointed that our big story only lasted a couple of days, I thought we were important enough to last a whole
week at least. It seemed that Vincents nonchalant attitude pretty much stopped the gossiping dead in its tracks.
After all, no one likes gossiping about people who dont care youre gossiping about them.
All in all, things were becoming pretty peaceful once again. I was certainly glad, because all I wanted to do was
get through the rest of the academic year without any more drama, as well as to start enjoying all the perks of
finally having a boyfriend. Life was going well and I intended to keep it that way.
--I had a free half hour between lessons on a Wednesday afternoon, so I snuck my sandwiches into the library so
that I could simultaneously eat lunch and check my Facebook. I wasnt supposed to bring food anywhere near
the school computers, but luckily the librarian was a bit short-sighted and didnt seem to notice.
I found myself flicking through Vincents photographs on Facebook. He didnt have many and he wasnt much of
a poser, despite looking incredibly handsome in every shot. Particularly the shots of him onstage. I made a

mental note to try and take a photo with him at some point in the near future because I really wanted one of the
two of us together.
I contemplated adding Alexis as my friend, but then I thought better of it. She was more active on the site than I
was so Id let her come to me. Vincent and I had decided not to make our relationship Facebook official, so as not
to rub it in her face or anything. I didnt know what else we could do for her. I was trying so hard to consider her
feelings all the time, but she didnt seem to want to return the favour. Not if her death-inducing look the previous
night was anything to go by
I kept flicking through random Facebook updates and munching on my lunch. There wasnt very much going on
and I was getting a bit bored. With ten more minutes to go until my science lesson, I decided to check my school
email account. I hardly ever got any messages on there, but I always checked it when I was fed up.
As the screen loaded, I was surprised to see a new message waiting for me.
To: scotty.williams@havensdale.uk
From: alexis.mae@havensdale.uk
Subject: Read Me
I scanned the subject line, feeling puzzled. Why was Alexis emailing me? It was easy to find the address of
anyone in the school because we were all assigned accounts with our full names, but I had no idea what she
would want to message me about. Feeling a wave of unease wash over me, I cautiously clicked open the email.
Guess what Scotty? I may have apologised to you in front of Vincent, but thats only for his sake.
I am NOT sorry! I dont regret anything Ive said or done to you because I know youre not the nice guy you like
to make out you are
I want you to break up with Vincent. I dont care how you do it, but youd better do it quickly. Or there will be
consequences.
Trust me, I am not kidding around here. You will seriously regret it if you dont do what I say.
Break up with Vincent... He deserves more than a scumbag like you.
I sat there totally stunned. I read the message once, twice, three times over It still didnt make any sense to me
whatsoever. I obviously hadnt misread the evil look Alexis had given me, but I just couldnt understand what she
was talking about. Break up with Vincent? He deserves more than a scumbag?! What on earth had I done to
warrant this kind of malice?!
My heart was pounding with a mixture of hurt and fury. I couldnt believe I had ever tried to make allowances for
this girl. She was so jealous that now she was actually trying to split me and Vincent up. I wasnt going to stand
for it. Id already had a gutful of her threats from before I even got together with Vincent. Hadnt she gone on
about consequences then if I didnt stay away? She was insane and full of total rubbish. She would say
anything to get what she wanted.
With shaking fingers, I slammed out my reply on the keyboard.

Alexis. I dont know who you think you are. THIS HAS GOT TO STOP.
Im sorry that we hurt you, but I love Vincent. Im certainly not going to break up with him just because you told
me to. Youre living in a fantasy land if you think thats ever going to happen.
Also, you can hurl insults at me and call me a scumbag if it makes you feel better but all your insults have no
basis in reality. Whatever you think of me, I hardly think I deserve to be called names like that.
Im disappointed because I thought we had finally sorted this out. Yesterday we agreed to start a whole new
chapter. I suggest you think carefully about that and perhaps I wont show this hateful message to Vincent.
I exhaled deeply to try and calm myself down and clicked the send button. If I had been a different sort of person,
I would have responded a lot more angrily with a lot more swearing. But I knew that was going to get me
nowhere with someone like Alexis. I just had to hope that calling her out on her crap would be enough to make
her stop.
I hung around for a while, wondering if she was going to reply back. It didnt seem like anything was coming
through and my next lesson was about to start. I reluctantly went to log off the computer but just before I did, my
inbox loaded up a new headline.
Subject: Tomorrow
If it walks like a scumbag and talks like a scumbag then guess what? Its a fucking scumbag!
Im giving you until tomorrow to break up with Vincent.
You dont want to find out what will happen if you dont do what I say.
As the words settled into my head, it was all I could do not to throw up all over the library floor.
--I had a mock exam in my science lesson, but I could barely concentrate on the paper in front of me. My mind was
a whirlwind of confusion. I knew that Alexis had a problem with me, but I had no idea where this total hatred had
come from. I didnt know what I was supposed to have done to fire her up so much. I racked my brain, trying to
think of anything I had ever said or done that could have been taken in the wrong context. I was struggling to
think of any incident that Alexis would have known about. The only thing I was guilty of was loving Vincent with
my whole heart. I had never given him or Alexis any reason to doubt how strongly I felt about our relationship
I wondered if this had something to do with Taylor in any way. Had Alexis overheard one of his outbursts about
his real feelings for me? I didnt see how she could have. We had always been alone whenever Taylor had
confronted me. Besides, its not like I had ever reciprocated his actions. And as for the past how would she
ever have known about that? Taylor would probably die before letting the truth come out regarding his sexuality,
and I most definitely hadnt told anyone.
All I could think was that she had her wires crossed about something and now she was trying to hold it over my
head. Well, it wasnt going to work! The mere suggestion of breaking up with Vincent made me so outraged that
tears burned in the corners of my eyes.

She could threaten me as much as she liked. I was innocent and I had nothing to hide. I wasnt going to give into
her intimidating emails. In fact, I was going to completely ignore her from now on. Whatever supposed awful
punishment awaited me, it couldnt be worse than a world without Vincent.
--What are you up to tonight Scotty? Can I see you again?
I was sitting at my desk with my phone on loudspeaker, working my way through a double-paged sheet of maths
equations.
Dont tempt me, I spoke into my mobile. I have so much work to catch up on. I really need to stay in and get
some of it done.
No worries, Vincent replied in his usual velvet purr. Youre worth the wait.
I buried my head in my maths book, trying to hide my blush. Then I remembered I was on the phone and Vincent
couldnt actually see me.
Stop being such a tease!
He gave a sexy little laugh that left me all tingly inside.
So, how was your day then my dear little Specs? Anything to report?
Oh, you know, the usual. Your best friend sent me a threatening email demanding I break up with you. And if I
dont do what she says then shes going to do something horrible to me. But Ive decided not to let it get through
to me, since shes threatened me with horrible consequences numerous times in the past and so far nothings
come of it. Well, unless you count my scratched up back, which still isnt healed by the way. Oh and shes not
sorry for it, she took back her apology. Im so glad you have such wonderful friends that support us so well, arent
we lucky?!
I cleared my throat. Not really. Its been pretty non-eventful today.

Chapter 37
Emails And Blackmail
Even though I vowed not to let Alexiss silly threats get through to me, I found myself constantly checking my
emails on Thursday at every given opportunity. I managed to link my school email account to my phone so I could
check it on the go, and I couldnt help but anxiously refresh the page during any spare moment I had.
It was ridiculous and I felt thoroughly ashamed of myself for falling into Alexiss trap. I was letting her horrible
messages have some kind of power over me. This is exactly what she wanted! But I just couldnt help it. I had no
idea what she was planning to say or do next and it was making me feel sick with worry. She was so crazy and
unpredictable that it wouldnt have surprised me if she decided to invent some nasty story to make me look bad
to Vincent. Part of me wondered if I should just take a copy of the emails to Mrs. Patricks, especially since they
were all logged on the school email system. However, I didnt want the situation to escalate into something that I
could no longer control.
Not that I was in control in the slightest. I lost count of the number of times I checked my inbox throughout the
morning. By the time I got to my last lesson before lunch, I started to feel annoyed at myself. I had to get a grip!
After all, what on earth could Alexis do to me? Even if she made up a story, Vincent wouldnt believe her. He
knew me inside out and would never side with any of her spiteful lies. We loved each other so much and I was
being stupid to think that kind of love could ever be threatened by a silly little girl like Alexis.
As I sat down for my German lesson, I switched my phone off and shoved it into the bottom of my bag. This was
one game I wasnt playing into anymore.
--I had some time to kill in the afternoon before my maths lesson started, so after eating my lunch I headed into the
library to potter about online. I was definitely not going to check my school emails. No way. In fact, I was going to
do something unimaginable and actually get on with some work. I had a physics essay that was due in soon and
I wanted to do a bit of research into the subject. I could also do with brushing up on my German grammar and
there were lots of interesting websites to help me out with that.
I opened up a few tabs of information and started flicking between them, doing my best to concentrate. I spent a
while doing research and taking down notes, but the whole time there were a string of questions niggling at the
back of my mind
Has she emailed me yet? What is she going to say? Should I look?!
I forced myself to keep focusing on work. My studies were important and Alexis wasnt. I kept telling that to
myself over and over, trying to keep my mind on the laws of gravity and German pronouns.
Eventually, despite my very best efforts, I couldnt take not knowing for a second longer.
Without stopping to think about it, I logged into my email account. And sure enough, there was a message.
Subject: You Were Warned

As I scanned the subject line, my heart instantly started pumping on overdrive. I was dreading whatever it was I
was about to read. With trembling fingers, I clicked open the email.
Ive spoken to Vincent today and it doesnt sound like you did what I asked.
Maybe this will persuade you to do the right thing.
I scrolled down to an attachment which was included at the bottom of the message. It was a slightly grainy
picture.
At first I didnt even register what I was looking at. I think I was in a state of numb shock. I just stared at it for a
whole ten seconds, unable to process my reaction towards it.
The picture was of me.
Me and Taylor Raven. Up against a row of lockers. Kissing.
A gang of boys walked past me in the library and I hastily changed tabs, making the image disappear temporarily.
I looked behind me in a frantic panic, worried someone nearby might have overseen it. Luckily, the library was
fairly empty and nobody was paying any attention to me. Once I was certain the coast was clear, I shakily clicked
back to the message and read the words underneath the picture.
Bet you didnt think anyone would find out about your dirty little secret did you?
Well guess what? I saw you both that night, and I heard every word. Then I just so happened to take this photo
on my phone I had a feeling it might come in handy.
Im only going to say this one more time. Break up with Vincent. Or this picture goes viral.
I dont think your beloved boyfriend will be too happy once he finds out youve been sleeping with the enemy.
Literally.
I felt my breathing become shallow and laboured as I became completely panicked. How could this be
happening?! I scrolled back up to the picture, trying to recall the exact moment it had occurred. I could barely
even remember it now. I scrutinised the image thoroughly, willing myself to remember.
The locker room next to the school auditorium. The Battle Of The Bands competition. It was all coming back to
me now. I thought that Vincent had rejected me after our meeting on top of the rooftop Then Taylor had
accosted me by the lockers. He had been drunk and tried to kiss me.
But I had rejected him! Only in the picture it didnt look that way. It looked like I was kissing him back. Alexis must
have captured it just before I had pushed Taylor away.
At the time, I had been convinced that someone might have seen or heard us. Taylor had been talking so loudly
as well. What had he said out loud? I squeezed my eyes tightly shut and tried to dig the memory out of my mind.
Scotty you were my first love You were the first person I ever made love to I know Im with Patricia, but its
nothing like it was with you I still think of you when Im with her

As Taylors words rang through my head, the room started spinning around me. He had confessed out loud that
we had slept together and Alexis had been just outside the room. She must have heard every word. And she had
photographic evidence.
What was I going to do if this ever got out? How would I explain it to Vincent? All this time he had been protecting
me from Taylor, but he had no idea that Id actually slept with him. That a long time ago I had even been in love
with him. The enormity of my lie suddenly crashed down over me like a heavy, tsunami wave. I felt sick at myself.
How could I have ever kept this from Vincent for so long? It was going to break his heart if he found out about it
now, especially coming from Alexis and her blackmailing picture.
I sat at the computer in a daze when another message appeared in my inbox on the side of the screen. I didnt
want to see what else had come through, but I knew I had to look. I fully expected it to be further threats from
Alexis, but to my total shock it was from Taylor.
Re: I Warned You
Scotty what the fuck is going on?! Who is Alexis Mae? Why does she have this photograph?
THIS MUST NOT GET OUT.
Meet me by the P.E. cupboard ASAP!
I was totally confused. Had Alexis been in touch with Taylor as well? I looked back on the original message and to
my horror, realised that she had also copied Taylor into it. She knew who he was through Vincent, so it was easy
for her to find his address through the school email system.
I had no idea what to do. It was like in a single instant my whole world had come tumbling down around me. I
should have known that everything was too good to be true. I was never the sort of person who found happiness
easily.
All I knew was that I had to do whatever it took to stop Alexis from spreading that photo around. And I had to
make sure that I got to Vincent before she did. I doubted she was the kind of person I could reason with, but I
was going to do everything in my power to try. I hit reply on her email to me.
Alexis,
I know this looks bad, but its not what you think.
I am begging you to hear me out before you do anything rash.
I swear I will tell Vincent everything but he cant find out like this.
Can you meet me today?
As soon as I clicked the send button, I went straight to composing a reply to Taylor. I didnt really think I owed him
much of an explanation, especially since it was down to his reckless behaviour that this situation was even
happening in the first place. However, he wanted to keep our previous relationship out of the spotlight as much
as I did. This concerned both of us and I needed to keep him in the loop in case everything started spinning out
of control. I kept my reply to him blunt.

Im on the way. Will wait behind P.E. cupboard.

Then I logged off my computer and headed toward the library exit. Taylor Raven was the last person I wanted to
talk to about any of this, but I didnt see that I had much of a choice. He was bound to be freaking out about this
as much as I was. I wondered if maybe he could actually help me in some way. I definitely had no clue how to
handle Alexis on my own.
As I went to leave, I noticed Mandy and Neil sat playing chess together at one of the tables near the door. Mandy
caught my eye and beckoned me over with a cheerful smile on her face. I wished I had managed to get out
without them seeing me, but I couldnt just ignore them. I faked my best smile and walked over to the table.
Hey Scotty, Mandy beamed. What are you up to? Me and Neil are just having a quick lunchtime chess
tournament. Do you fancy taking on the winner? Weve got another half hour until lessons.
Erm, well I faltered, that sounds great, but Im actually Im not feeling too good.
Neil leaned over the table, examining my face. Blimey mate, you look white as a sheet!
Are you OK? Mandy added. Whats the matter?
I wrung my hands together, my whole body quaking with nervous energy. Um, I think its just a cold or
something. Ive been out in the rain a lot lately, probably picked something up I think I might skip D.A.C. tonight
actually and go home to sleep it off.
The look of genuine concern on Mandys face was making me feel even guiltier than I already did, if that was
even possible.
Yeah, I think maybe youd better do that! Poor Scotty! I hope you feel better. Do you want me to let Olive know
you cant make it tonight?
I nodded and excused myself, hurrying out of the library before I bumped into anyone else who knew me. The
guilt I was feeling inside was so thick and disgusting that I was fairly sure it would soon start dripping visibly out
of my pores. I had to get out before anyone saw me.
--I had been waiting behind the back of the P.E. cupboard for about fifteen minutes when Taylor finally rounded the
corner toward me. He was in his tennis kit and he looked as pale-faced as I did.
Scotty, what the hell is happening? Who is Alexis and why does she have that picture?!
He stood a little way apart from me, as though coming a step too close would cause the shed behind us to selfcombust. I noted inwardly that this was the first time in years that we were almost having something resembling a
normal conversation. It was pathetic that the thing to bring us back together was mutual blackmail.
I sighed and attempted to explain everything as quickly as possible.
Shes Vincents best friend, the girl hes in the band with.

Taylors eyes flashed with recognition. "You mean the gothy looking girl with the short hair?
Thats the one.
It was her that took the picture? Why?!
Because shes in love with Vincent, I replied. And she wants me out of his life. And thanks to your lovely little
drunken outburst during Battle Of The Bands, she has exactly what she needs to try and come between us.
A look of shameful remorse flickered across Taylors face, but only for a very brief moment. He locked his eyes
onto mine.
You havent told Vincent about us then?
No, I havent, I replied. But I really wish I had.
Well, why didnt you then?!
Taylor was getting riled up all of a sudden. I think it was a mixture of fear and jealousy. I stared at him blankly.
Because it makes me feel sick that I ever had feelings for you. I just wanted to erase you from my past. Not to
mention all the torture youve put me through How did I know it wasnt going to get worse if I said anything? I
ran my hand through my curly hair, feeling waves of frustration pulsate inside of me. I dont know why I ever let
you get into my head. I should have just told Vincent from the very start.
Taylors eyes looked watery at my words, but he spoke with a steely voice.
Yeah, well, you didnt tell him. And youre not going to now.
I scoffed loudly. Of course Im going to tell him! Im putting an end to this horrible mess once and for all.
Scotty, you cant! Taylor pleaded. He cant know about us. No one can know!
If I wasnt mistaken, I saw the hint of a tear rolling down Taylors cheek. I almost felt sorry for him.
Ive got news for you Taylor, everybody in the whole bloody school is going to know if I dont start dealing with
this. Vincent would never spread it around, but as for Alexis I don't know, Im hoping I can just talk to her. Try
and reason with her. Ive just got to hope Vincent forgives me and we can all move on from this before its too
late.
Taylor took a few steps toward me. He looked a little crazy.
Fuck talking about it! You need to do what this girl says and break up with Vincent! Thats what she wants right?
So just do it! Its just some stupid little crush thats going to fizzle out by the time you get to uni, but its my whole
career on the line! If this photo comes out, it could ruin my whole life.
I stared at Taylor. I wasnt going to dignify him with an answer. He kept ranting on.

Scotty, maybe this is all a sign. I know I havent treated you very well, but I can try and change. Maybe this thing
with Vincent has just run its natural course and youre supposed to give me a second chance. Ill break up with
Patricia then we can start again, its the perfect opportunity. I mean, I couldnt go public with it until college
ends, but this time we would both know where we stand. It could be so great, just like it used to be
Taylor! I interrupted sharply. Just stop it!
I walked closer to him and put a hand on his shoulder.
You cant keep running away from this. Even if we stop Alexis spreading the photograph, it wont stop the truth.
Because what happens when theres another photo or when someone else threatens to reveal your secret? Do
you just keep running and covering it up? Thats no way to live! You have to face this head on, all of it. Youre gay.
And Im with Vincent. Those two facts arent going to change however much you want them to, so you have to try
and deal with them. You cant keep lying to everyone. And you cant keep lying to yourself.
I flinched inwardly as I spoke the final sentence. I may as well have been talking to my own reflection. Maybe it
was time I started taking my own advice for once.
Taylor said nothing for a few moments, tears now freely rolling down his cheeks.
But Scotty, I love you
I sighed softly. If you really love me then youll listen to me and start moving on from all of this.
Suddenly the phone in my pocket made a loud pinging noise. I had an email. I loaded it up as quickly as possible,
and sure enough, it was a reply from Alexis.
OK. Ill meet you.
Come to the statue in Havensdale Park at 7pm.
Im only doing this for Vincent.
I read the message out loud to Taylor who was still stood in sobbing silence.
What are you going to say to her then? he finally said in a sniffle.
Now that was a good question. I had absolutely no idea.

Chapter 38
Heart To Heart In The Park
Scotty, are you OK? Mandy told me you went home sick? Now you know why I told you to stop walking around
in this weather without an umbrella! How are you feeling now?
I held my phone slightly away from my ear as Olives voice squeaked shrilly down the line.
Yeah, Im feeling a bit better, I said in a pretend stuffy voice. I just had a bit of a dizzy spell, I think I needed to
lie down.
You need to take it easy, Olive replied. Mandy and Neil said you looked terrible! Ive been a bit worried about
you ever since you had that panic attack. I think your soap opera life is starting to make you ill! She paused.
Hey, is that wind I can hear? Are you outside?
Um, yeah, I just came into the garden for a bit of fresh air. I felt a bit cooped up in my room.
In reality, I was actually in Havensdale Park waiting for Alexis to meet me. I was sitting on a bench by the big
bronze statue of a horse that stood in the centre of the area.
Do you want me to come over and keep you company? Olive asked.
Oh no, thats OK, I replied hastily. I dont want you to catch my cold or anything. Im sure Ill buck up and see
you sometime tomorrow.
As I wrapped up the call, I came to the realisation that all I ever seemed to do was lie. I vowed to myself that
there would be no more lies ever again after this meet-up. Pretending to be sick was the very last one.
Then again, I really did feel rather sick. Alexis was due to meet me at any minute and I was dreading having to
face her. I had no idea what I was going to say to her. Not to mention my earlier meeting with Taylor was still
replaying round in my head. I had ended up leaving him crying by himself next to the P.E. cupboard. I should
have been glad to see him so upset after everything he had ever put me through. But I didnt feel glad, I felt
miserable. Everything in my life had become a massive mess and I just wanted it all to end. Wasnt there some
way that we could all be happy?
The sky was growing dark and there was a chill in the air. I pulled my coat tightly around myself, scouring the
park for any sign of Alexis. There werent many people around at this time of night, and the surroundings that
looked so pretty in the day were slowly becoming slightly creepy. The trees were casting ominous shadows
across the ground and a lone crow was screeching from an invisible source. I shivered and checked my watch,
wondering how long I should wait before I gave up all hope of a meeting actually happening.
Finally, there was a rustle from the bushes opposite me and Alexis appeared like a deathly phantom. She was
wearing a long, black trench coat with her usual big statement boots. When she got closer, I noticed that her
pupils were like steel bullets in the centre of her heavily made-up eyes. They locked onto me as she approached.
I decided to make the first move and called out to her.

Alexis, youre here I didnt know if you were still coming.

She stormed straight up to me, totally unafraid. Come on then, lets hear it What lame excuse are you going to
come up with? Let me guess, Taylors dick just slipped and accidentally landed inside of you?
I winced. Dont say things like that... Please...
Alexis slumped herself on the end of the bench, making sure there was a wide gap between us.
Well, its true isnt it? You and that little prick have been screwing around behind Vincents back. Dont even try to
deny it!
No we havent! I countered defensively. I would never cheat on Vincent. Ever!
I saw you with my own two fucking eyes! Alexis yelled, turning angrily toward me from her end of the bench.
Stop lying to me! You were kissing him and he said youd slept together. I seriously couldnt believe it, after
everything Vincent has done to protect you from that little arsehole you were KISSING him!
I hated hearing the words out loud. Its not like they were exactly untrue and now the reality of everything was
weighing unbearably on my heart.
I swear to you Alexis, it wasnt what it looked like
She gave a mocking laugh. Do you know something? I didnt hear the fucking end of it that night when we were
getting ready to go onstage. Scottys in the audience, have you seen Scotty yet? Scotty this, Scotty that
Vincent was like a broken bloody record. And you know what? It made me wonder if maybe I had you wrong
Maybe if you made Vincent so happy then I could try and forget about my own feelings and be happy too. For his
sake. But then I saw what I saw. I was walking past the lockers whilst I was unloading our equipment into
Vincents car. Im just glad I had my phone with me so I could take a picture.
I put my head into my hands and let out a groan. Its not what you think it is! Taylor was drunk. He kissed me, but
I pushed him away.
Oh and why did he kiss you? Alexis questioned sarcastically. Because from the things he was saying, it didnt
sound like it had been a one-time thing!
She started drumming her fingers manically against her knee as she carried on speaking.
I dont know why I didnt just tell Vincent then and there. I should have done. Its just that we were on such a high
from winning the band night and I had no idea how serious things were getting between you two... I couldnt do it
to him, not when he seemed so happy. I was going to let the whole thing go when I thought you had backed off,
but now I find out you two have been dating in secret... And, well, its my duty as Vincents best friend to warn him
that hes seeing a two-timing scumbag!
I could feel tears clawing at my eyes. I looked up at Alexis, sobs starting to ripple through me.
Im not two-timing him! Besides, we werent even together when you saw me with Taylor!

So that makes it OK then? Alexis scoffed. It doesnt matter if it was before, Vincent still had feelings for you at
the time and you knew it! Youve been lying your arse off to him, do you think thats fair? He thinks that Taylor
was ruining your life and he put everything on the line to save you from him. How do you think it will make him
feel to know the truth? Do you know how many people have let him down in his life, Scotty? Its going to break his
fucking heart to find out youre just one more let down.
Alexiss words cut right into me like a hundred jagged blades. I felt my breathing become laboured as more sobs
racked my body.
I I love him I love him Its not what you think... its not
I couldnt breathe. I just couldnt get enough air into my lungs. The park around me started to grow darker and
everything began to fade out around me
--I felt a slow, rubbing motion on my back. My vision was coming back into focus. I was still on the park bench, only
Alexis was sitting near to me now.
Jesus Scotty, calm the fuck down.
She continued to rub my back and I felt the air returning to my lungs.
Just breathe, alright? She sounded weirdly calm compared to how angry she had just been as she was laying
into me. I knew every word had been true, which is what had set me off into a massive spiral of panic.
Taking long, deep breaths, I tried to take the opportunity to finally talk.
Alexis this is the truth. I dated Taylor years ago, before I ever even knew Vincent. It wasnt some dirty little
affair either, I was in love with him. And he loved me too. But he couldnt cope with coming out, not with his Dad
putting so much pressure on him to act a certain way. He freaked out and broke my heart and hes been
torturing me ever since. He said if I ever told anyone about us that he would ruin my life, as well as the lives of
anyone I cared about.
Alexis didnt say anything. She just listened intently as she carried on rubbing my back. I kept going with my
story.
I kept the secret, I never told a soul. Not even Olive. But his bullying just got worse and worse. Then I met
Vincent and everything changed. I finally discovered what real love actually felt like But Taylor got jealous
about it. Thats when he tried to kiss me in the locker room. In fact, hes been doing that kind of thing a lot lately
but Ive never kissed him back! I know that the photo looks that way, but I swear to you I didnt do anything. I
dont have any feelings for Taylor, I love Vincent!
I breathed heavily, feeling the weight of my guilt lift a tiny bit by sharing it with another person after all this time.
Alexis looked up to the starry night sky, her hand still on my back.
If you love Vincent so much, then why didnt you just tell him? You know he would have understood if youd just
been honest from the start about it.

I dont know, I replied quietly. At first I was scared. Of Taylor, of Vincents reaction, of the secret getting out
Then after a while, I was just ashamed. I didnt want Vincent to know Id had anything to do with someone as
messed up as Taylor. I just thought I could hit delete and it would all go away.
Alexis finally took her hand off my back and let out an agonised sigh which left a fog trail in the night air. I looked
at her pleadingly.
I know Ive done a terrible thing to lie the way I have, but please, I'm begging you dont share that picture
around. Do you know how much damage it would cause if anyone saw it? You said yourself its going to break
Vincents heart. So please dont show it to him, or anyone else. Please, Alexis.
She turned to me and I was surprised to see that her own eyes were a little teary.
Scotty, I love Vincent. Thats one fucking thing we have in common alright? I know you think Im a crazy bitch,
but its only because I love him so, so much... And Im not going to hurt him by showing him the photo, OK?
Overwhelming relief hit me like a tidal wave. Thank you. Oh God, thank you.
But you have to tell him! Alexis continued. You have to! If you dont then I fucking will. Im not saying you
should break up with him or any of that shit I wrote to you when I was angry But you have to TELL HIM.
In a single moment, my whole opinion of Alexis changed. All this time she had only ever been looking out for
Vincent and trying to protect him in her own way. She may have been sharp-tongued on the outside, but
underneath there was a caring girl who just wanted to do the right thing.
To my own surprise, I reached out and took her hand.
Ill tell him. I promise I will.
She looked marginally stunned at my action, but she didnt pull away.
I exhaled slowly. I just hope Vincent wont hate me...
Alexis squeezed my hand.
He could never hate you. You speccy little twat.
--Hey Scotty, you OK? You didnt text me back earlier
I was now back at home and talking to Vincent on the phone. As far as he was concerned I had just dropped off
the face of the planet during the afternoon. Normally we texted each other all time but I had gone silent during my
meeting with Alexis. He had no idea that Id just met up with her.
Sorry Vincent, I didnt mean to ignore you. Its just Well actually, its probably better I explain it in person.
There was a little silence. When Vincent spoke, he sounded anxious.

Is everything OK?
Yes its fine, I replied hastily. I mean, its sort of fine. Theres just something I need to talk to you about...
Vincent laughed nervously. Specs, youre scaring me. Whats the matter?
Oh God, it sounded like I was trying to dump him or something! I tried to remain as light-hearted as possible.
Its nothing for you to be worried about, OK? I just really need to talk to you in person.
There was another pause. Do you want me to come over now?
I glanced at the clock in my bedroom. It was nearly 9pm. I didnt want Vincent coming all the way over at night
time and possibly getting himself into a state in the process.
Its a bit late. Can we maybe meet after classes tomorrow?
OK, Vincent replied hesitantly. Sure.
I hated dragging the situation on for another day, but I couldnt tell Vincent about Taylor over the phone. I had to
look him in the eye and tell him the truth to his face.
Ill text you tomorrow, OK?
I could hear Vincents breathing getting a little sharper on the end of the line. It was killing me that I was panicking
him.
Scotty, I love you, he suddenly blurted out. You know that right?
I felt my heart wrench.
Of course I know that. Vincent Im not trying to break up with you or anything, please dont be worried. I just have
to tell you something important I love you so, so much. You dont even understand how much. Please dont
forget that.
I heard Vincent sigh with relief.
God Specs, Im glad you said that. You were starting to freak me out a little bit.
He seemed to be placated by my words. I was glad because I didnt want him to spend the whole night worrying.
I would never break up with him, not in a million years.
I just hoped that when he found out the truth, he wouldnt be the one breaking up with me.

Chapter 39
Game Over
When I woke up on Friday morning, it felt like any other ordinary day.
Admittedly, Id had a bit of a restless nights sleep. Id been thinking about my impending conversation with
Vincent and going over in my mind what I was going to say to him. However, my nerves were slowly but surely
abiding. After all, if Alexis could forgive me for what had happened, then I just knew that Vincent would
understand. It would hurt him, but he would understand.
He had to understand.
I got up early, threw on a shirt and jeans and made some toast for breakfast. The usual routine that I did every
weekday. Then I cleaned my teeth, brushed my hair and headed out on the walk to school. It was the same old
route, passing the same old houses and corner shops. As far as I was concerned, it was just another normal
Friday.
I was blissfully unaware of the utter chaos that would be waiting for me when I got to college.
It wasnt another ordinary day. It was the day that would send my entire world crashing down around me.
--I walked through the gates and headed over to the college reception. I could see through the glass doors that
there was a bit of a hubbub in the foyer. People were crowding together and talking intensively with each other. It
was pretty unusual for students to be so animated at this time in the morning.
I made my way toward the crowd and happened to pass by Fritz, who was walking in the opposite direction. I
gave him a friendly wave good morning and he stopped dead as he saw me.
Scotty Have you just come in for the first time today?
That was a weird question, but then again Fritzs English was so broken that his questions always sounded a bit
weird.
Yeah, I just got here. Why?
His face seemed to go a little white. You must go to the hallway past reception immediately. It is not good for
you.
My heart seemed to freeze in my chest. What? Whats going on?
I do not judge my friend, OK? But other people will be
I felt my stomach lurch and had to suppress the sudden overwhelming urge to be sick. I knew as soon as Fritz
had spoken what kind of sight would be waiting for me in the hallway, but I didnt want to believe it.

She couldnt have. She promised.

I turned away from Fritz and broke into a run, careering into the reception area. Students of all ages were
pointing at me and whispering. I barely registered them as I barged my way through the crowds.
Please God I muttered under my breath. Please dont let it be what I think it is
As I rounded the corner, the feeling of shock was so physical it was as though someone had shot me.
There it was. The photograph. The slightly grainy image of Taylor and I kissing, stuck up on the wall of the
corridor for everyone to see.
Not just one photograph. A hundred photographs. Maybe even more. Lining the entire length of the walls on both
sides. And underneath in bold, typed text was the sentence: Scotty Williams Slept With Taylor Raven.
I leaned over and dry-heaved at the sight.
People started to crowd around me, all of them talking in a cacophony.
Oh my God, its him! Its Scotty! Is he OK?
I thought he was seeing Vincent Hunter? Did he cheat on him?! What a bastard!
TAYLOR RAVEN is gay? He slept with a GUY?! TAYLOR RAVEN?!
Who the hell took this picture? How did they get so many up here?
How embarrassing for them both! Do you think the head girl has seen it, shes Scottys friend right?
SOMEONE FIND VINCENT HUNTER, HE HAS TO SEE THIS!
At the sound of Vincents name, I shot up from my crouching position. No, he cant see this! I yelled. I pushed
through the crowd and ran up to the wall of photographs, trying with all my might to tear some of them down.
They were all stuck firmly against the wall with some kind of heavy duty masking tape around every side, so it
was ridiculously difficult to pick them off.
Two female teachers appeared down the end of the corridor, shouting at everyone and herding them along in
some vain attempt at damage control.
Come on people, move along Get to your classes NOW! We will get to the bottom of who did this but in the
meantime, keep moving! Shows over!
The second teacher turned to the first, looking utterly perplexed. How did all these get here?! I didnt see
anything suspicious going on.
The first teacher answered her between barking orders. I dont know! It must have been during the staff meeting
this morning, I cant understand it I REPEAT, GET BACK TO YOUR CLASSES IMMEDIATELY! THAT MEANS
EVERYONE.

No one was listening to the teachers, they were all staring and squealing and remaining totally engrossed in the
massive scandal playing out before their eyes. I slumped down on the floor in utter defeat, realising that I was
never going to tear down all the photographs by myself.
And then, it happened. They all showed up. And the bomb went off.
Even though we all had very different schedules on a Friday, we were all in the building. And when there is a
massive drama like the one that was currently unfolding, it was bound to be spreading around the whole of the
school like wildfire. I guess as soon as I saw the pictures, I knew it was inevitable. Everyone was going to find
out, in the worst way possible. But still, nothing prepared me for the sheer impact of the fallout that was coming
my way.
The first person who turned up was Olive. Of course, it was her. She was the head girl and she was always the
first one at the scene whenever there was the slightest sniff of Havensdale drama. Little did she know that the
massive commotion in the hallway was being caused by me, her so-called best friend.
As if I even deserved that title after all the lies I had ever told her.
She pushed her way through all the students, her gaze landing on me as I crouched on the floor. I was trying my
best to hold it together and not succumb to one of my signature anxiety attacks. She obviously saw me before
she realised what was written on the rows of pictures.
Scotty, oh my God are you OK? What the hell is going on?
Her concern for me made me want to start dry-heaving again. I looked her in the eye.
Olive, Im sorry. Im sorry I never told you. I didnt want you to find out like this.
She looked at me in total bafflement. Then she turned around and started to take in the rows of pictures in front
of her.
What is this? she muttered. Scotty is that you? And Taylor? I dont understand
She leaned in closer to the photograph, reading the text that was underneath. I didnt try to stop her. There was
no point.
This is a joke right? she exclaimed with a humourless laugh. Someone has photoshopped you two... Why
would anyone do that? And say you slept together?! This is awful Scotty, we have to start taking them down! Who
would spread such a horrible lie?!
I said nothing. I just looked at Olive with apologetic eyes. She stared at me in disbelief.
Its not its not true is it Scotty?
Before I could find any words to say back to her, a piercing scream filled the air.
NO. NO ITS NOT TRUE. ITS JUST NOT!

I heard the two teachers shouting, but they were powerless to control any of the situation that was playing out in
front of them. The voice belonging to the scream was getting closer and closer to me.
TAKE THEM DOWN! TAKE THEM ALL DOWN! STOP LOOKING AT THEM EVERYONE, ITS JUST TOTAL
LIES.
The crowds parted and Patricia came into view, her face red and flustered. I had never seen anyone look so
manic before. Taylor was tailing along behind her like a rabbit in the headlights. Everyone around was pointing
and talking about him, but he seemed to be lost in another reality altogether. It would appear his deep, dark
secret was finally out and the shock had quite clearly knocked him for six.
Patricia blustered up to me and slapped me sharply across the face.
YOU FUCKING FAGGOT BASTARD! YOU DID THIS! JUST LEAVE MY BOYFRIEND ALONE!
I did nothing to retaliate. The slap was painless compared to the turmoil I was feeling inside. Taylor seemed to
momentarily snap out of his daze and went to pull Patricia away from me. She turned around and slapped him
viciously in the face too.
Stop it! Olive cried out from beside us. What the hell is going on?! Just stop it everyone!
There were tears spilling out from behind her glasses, running softly down her face. I reached out to comfort her
and she pulled her whole body away from me. The reaction burned me up inside.
Patricia stormed away wailing and Taylor stepped shakily out of the rabble to follow her. The teachers were still
yelling and trying to call on their co-workers for backup. Olive was now looking at the photos again, openly
sobbing in distress.
As all these emotions were overflowing from every side, the final blow came from out of nowhere.
Scotty Please tell me its not true.
I turned around and there he was, right behind me. He was standing tall and calm, but there was an
uncharacteristic quiver in his voice. Just seeing the look on his face was enough to break my heart into a
thousand pieces.
Vincent Its not what it looks like...
Everyone hushed around us, watching on like we were a scene in their favourite teen drama. Even the teachers
were listening in. I really hoped it was giving them entertainment. After all, it was only my whole life which was
seconds away from falling apart.
Just tell me, Vincent said in a dry monotone. Have you and Taylor been together?
His eyes were fixed intensely on mine. Willing me to lie to him. But I couldnt.
Yes. I slept with him.
There it was. The truth. Out in the cold light of day.

At first Vincent didnt react. He stood there completely stunned. My words had come out so bluntly and almost at
once I wanted to take them back.
Vincent, it was a long time ago. It was never when I was with you. Please lets go and talk about this
somewhere I love you
I saw tears appear at the corner of his dark eyes. Then he turned his back on me coldly.
Vincent! I called out after him. Please
He marched angrily away from me. Students all hurried out of his way as he passed, terrified of him. When he
reached the doorway leading to reception, he let out a low howl of anguish and landed his fist against the door
numerous times. The wood splintered under the force of his punches, bloodying his knuckles in the process.
Mr. Hunter! cried one of the teachers. You are damaging school property, stop it this instant!
I raised my voice over her orders. Stop! Vincent, just listen to me!
I tried to clamber my way over to him, but the look he gave me stopped me in my tracks. It was dark and
menacing, as though he despised the very sight of me.
I cant believe I ever trusted you, he hissed. Youre just one more fucking disappointment.
His words were so cruel. I had never witnessed this side of him before. But perhaps I deserved it.
I didnt try to follow him as he walked briskly away from me and out of the building. I had no idea where Taylor
had disappeared to in all of the commotion, but I was glad Vincent didnt come across him or else there probably
would have been a full-on fist fight.
I turned back to find Olive through the crowd. I needed some hope. Some reassurance from my best friend that
everything was going to be OK. She was still crying by the wall of pictures.
I thought we were friends Scotty, she sniffled as I approached. But evidently not.
She wiped her eyes and walked up to the teachers, helping them to take down the pictures and restore some sort
of order. I followed her, pleading for her forgiveness.
Olive, of course youre my friend! Let me just explain
Go to class Scotty, she snapped. Were clearing up your mess, so just go.
In all our years of friendship, Olive had never talked to me so coldly before. It was like a knife to my heart.
The teacher beside her seemed to take pity on me and put a friendly arm on my shoulder. Come on little man, I
think you need to take some time to calm down. This has all been a bit of an ordeal But well find out who did
this and theyll get the punishment they deserve.
I nodded in a stupefied state. It was like I wasnt even in my own body anymore. This wasnt my life. It was
someone elses life and I was just a spectator.

The sea of people began dying down and students slowly started shuffling off to lessons. All the excitement was
over for them now.
It was only as the crowds parted that I saw her. Alexis Mae. She was coming through the doorway, looking
around at the aftermath of the whole hideous situation.
The situation that she had caused.
I felt my whole body shaking furiously. Before I could stop myself, I was lunging toward her.
You TRAITOR! You lied to me!
She didnt have any time to defend herself from my attack. I pushed her hard with all of my might, causing her to
lurch backwards. I didnt care about the outcome of my actions, I just hated her so much at that moment. After
everything that she had said to me in the park, how could she be so vindictive?!
You swore you wouldnt show anyone those pictures! YOU SWORE!
She stopped herself from falling and smacked me hard around the face, on the same cheek that Patricia had also
slapped.
Get the fuck off of me!
As pain seared across my cheek, I heard the loud bark of our Headmistress Mrs. Patricks from across the
hallway.
THAT IS ENOUGH. BOTH OF YOU IN MY OFFICE. NOW.
It looked like the backup had arrived, only shed turned up at exactly the wrong moment. Now I had gone from
the victim of a crime to an assaulter.
I didnt care what would happen to me. I didnt care about anything anymore.
I just wanted everyone I loved to forgive me.
I wanted to go back in time, to the very start of my relationship with Vincent and just tell him the truth.
But there was no going back. It was game over. And there was absolutely nothing I could do about it.

Chapter 40
Who Did It?
Alexis and I were sat beside each other in Mrs. Patrickss office. It was taking my entire willpower not to kick her
chair out from underneath her. The very sight of her made my skin prickle with fury.
Mrs. Patricks was sitting sternly opposite us, rubbing her temples in frustration. Mr. Williams. Miss. Mae. I dont
know what on earth went on this morning, but I want to get to the bottom of it. Now, I understand there were
some incriminating photographs posted in the corridor. Do either of you have any information about where they
came from?
She took the photo! I exclaimed, pointing at Alexis. Shes been blackmailing me with it for the past few days.
Mrs. Patricks raised her eyebrows in shock. Alexis leaned forward in her chair, waving her arms around so much
that the metal bangles lining her wrist all clanged together.
I didnt do this! I mean, I did take the photo, but I didnt put all those copies up on the wall. I had no idea what
was going on until Scotty bloody well attacked me!
Yeah right, I scoffed. If you didnt put them up then who did?
I dont know! she squealed. But it wasnt me! Why would I do that to you and Vincent?
She sounded sincere. I was starting to wonder if maybe she was actually telling the truth.
You want to split us up, I replied. And it looks like youve succeeded. He hates me now.
Alexiss jaw dropped. What?! You mean he saw them? Oh God, Scotty!
Mrs. Patricks interrupted us with a disdainful sigh.
Honestly, I am having trouble keeping up with all this. Break-ups? Blackmail?! Mr. Williams, whatever you
decide to do in your personal time is your own business, but perhaps all of you teenagers should be
concentrating more on your studies rather than re-enacting an episode of Dawsons Creek!
Alexis shot me a bemused look at Mrs. Patricks's bizarre, outdated reference. It was so unexpected that I almost
wanted to laugh out loud. I could tell Alexis felt the same way.
It was at that moment, as we shared a tiny little connection, that I realised she was innocent. Everything she had
told me in the park was true. She would never have done this to me or to Vincent. She had her faults, but she
wasnt a monster.
You really didnt do this did you? I said aloud.
No! she cried. I swear Scotty, it wasnt me!
I could see by her face that she was telling the truth. Her eyes were pleading with me to believe her.

I turned to face Mrs. Patricks. I think maybe I jumped to conclusions She obviously wasn't behind this. Then I
looked directly at Alexis. Im sorry I shoved you.
She gave a shrug. Whatever. You shove like a little girl anyway so its not like it hurt me. She paused for a
second, kicking her legs out from her chair obstinately. "I'm sorry I slapped you too, OK? It was just a gut reaction
of self-defence."
"It's fine," I murmured. "I deserved it."
Well, Im glad youre both sorting this out, Mrs. Patricks cut over us both. However, we still need to find out who
is responsible for this. We certainly dont take hate crimes lightly at Havensdale. Do either of you have any idea
who could be behind this photo stunt?
We both shook our heads. Mrs. Patricks pursed her lips.
I think perhaps we all need some time to settle down from this incident. Scotty, maybe you should go home for
the rest of the day. We can reconvene on Monday morning when youve had some time to calm down and reflect
on the issue. Does that sound acceptable to you?
I I guess so, I answered. It seemed like Mrs. Patricks was just as clueless about what to do next as I was.
I understand that Taylor Raven was also being incriminated in the photographs. Now I wont pry into your
relationship with one another as its none of my business, but I will be speaking with him too and I expect both of
you to compile any information that could be useful to solving this issue. If you can think of anyone who could
have got hold of the image then I need their names.
OK, I said obediently. Ill try and think Mrs. Patricks. Inwardly I was cringing at the thought of Taylor Raven sat
where I was currently sitting and playing the poor defenceless victim. He hardly had the right to any kind of
sympathy from anyone. He would probably try and turn the whole situation around and blame me for it in some
way.
Rest assured, Mrs. Patricks continued, we will find out what happened this morning and will be taking steps to
ensure something like this never happens again. But you really need to be more careful with your personal
information. You youngsters share everything online these days and you never know who could come across
your images and abuse them in this way.
She turned her gaze to Alexis who was slumping awkwardly in her seat. Miss Mae, dont think you are off the
hook either. You physically assaulted Scotty in the hallway, which is totally unacceptable. If he wants to put a
case forward against you for taking these images in the first place then we will have to take action. She then
glared at me. Equally Scotty, you should never resort to violence to another student, whatever the situation!
I know, I said quietly. I really am sorry, we both are. I dont want Alexis to get in trouble. Well work together and
figure out who did this.
--We talked through things with Mrs. Patricks for a little longer and then she dismissed us both. Alexis was
instructed to get back to lessons and I was told to go home. However, we both lingered along the corridor
together for a while.

God Scotty, Alexis sighed. This is a right fucking mess.

I know, I answered. And now I dont know what to do. I literally have no idea how to even start fixing it.
Why dont you call Vincent? she suggested in a mumble.
I pulled my phone out of my bag and dialled his number. It went straight to voicemail and I hung up.
No answer. I cant say Im surprised.
Alexis pulled her own phone out of her jacket pocket. Ill try him too, OK?
Vincent didnt respond to Alexiss call either.
Dont worry, hes probably just sulking, she said as she hung up the call. He gets like this sometimes. He used
to be like it all the time when he fought with his Dad. Just give him a bit of time and hell come round.
I put my face in my hands and groaned. Why did he have to find out like this? Who would do this to us? I mean
the picture said Id slept with Taylor But who would even know that?!
It was then that something clicked. My heart jolted.
Alexis You didnt just email that picture to me did you?
She looked at me questioningly. What are you getting at?
It was suddenly so obvious. My hands began to shake at the realisation.
Scotty, whats wrong? Do you know who did it?
I knew exactly who was behind the photos now. Someone we both knew.
And that someone was rounding the corner at that very moment as he made his way to Mrs. Patrickss office.
He stopped when he saw me. He clearly wasnt expecting me to still be around the office doorway. I narrowed my
eyes at him, my breathing becoming fast and shallow.
Taylor. It was you. YOU DID THIS!
My voice cracked into a furious roar, startling Alexis and visibly shaking Taylor to the core. He turned around and
started to run back up the corridor. I chased after him, adrenaline pumping through my body and propelling me
forward at the speed of light.
WHY? I shouted after him. WHY DID YOU DO IT?!
He ducked into one of the boys toilets as he was hurtling down the hallway, obviously hoping I was far enough
away that I couldnt see where hed gone. Although he was much physically stronger and faster than I was, my
pure fury was giving me the energy to keep up with him.

I slammed into the bathroom door with so much force that the sound of my entrance reverberated around the
whole room. There was no one in there but Taylor, who was leaning against the row of sinks and trying to get his
breath back. He looked alarmed as he saw me approach.
Empowered by my rage, I pushed him aggressively and he staggered backward. I began shouting at the top of
my lungs.
You werent happy until you ruined everything were you?! What was the reason? You couldnt bear to see me
and Vincent happy together?
I pushed him again and he blocked me, holding his hands up to try and defend my attack. He shouted back at
me, his voice cracking slightly.
I just couldnt take it anymore OK?! I just wanted people to know!
You wanted people to know LIKE THIS?! I cried out incredulously. By humiliating us both in front of everyone?!
Taylor was now cowering in the corner of the room, tears in his eyes. I never thought there would ever come a
day where he would be the one scared of me. I took a step back from him, trying to calm myself down.
How did you do it? I spat out angrily. There were so many pictures on the walls, someone must have helped
you put them up.
It was Billy and Bobby, he replied in a quiet voice. I forced them to help me. We put them all up early this
morning when there was a staff meeting.
I couldnt believe that Taylors homophobic henchmen had been the ones to help him with his anarchistic method
of coming out. Then again, they were incredibly stupid and easy to manipulate. They would do anything Taylor
asked them if they thought it would get them brownie points with his tennis star father. Although I got the feeling
that this was one incident Taylors Dad wouldnt be too thrilled about.
So why did you do it? I blurted out. Was it revenge on Vincent? Or just a way for you to break up with Patricia
without actually having to tell her the truth yourself?
Youre a fine one to talk! Taylor snapped back at me. You had every opportunity to tell your beloved little
boyfriend about us, but you chose to keep your mouth shut. He needed to know. They all did. And now they do,
so just shut the fuck up with your self-righteous shit!
His words stung me. Mainly because they were the truth.
Let me guess, I continued, trying to ignore his outburst. You thought you could pin this on Alexis?
So what if I did? Taylor shot back. Shes a horrible bitch and she deserves it. And now everyone finally knows. I
actually did us both a favour!
I couldnt believe that Taylor thought any of this was OK. Didnt he care that he had simultaneously destroyed his
reputation and my entire life in one stupid, impulsive moment? Maybe hed finally snapped and gone completely
insane.

Youre twisted, I muttered. Do you realise that? Youre a twisted, sorry excuse for a human being.
SHUT UP! he screeched at me. Then he pushed me forcefully out of his way and ran out of the bathroom. I had
no idea where he was going and I didnt have any inclination to follow him.
I suddenly felt a little faint and had to grab hold of one of the sinks to support myself. As I looked up, I could see
my reflection staring wildly back at me. Angry eyes that held far too many secrets.
I had no idea who the person in the mirror was. Was it me? Was this my life?
I just wanted to go back to the old me again.
God damn it, I was going to fix this. All of it. By any means possible.

Chapter 41
Forgiveness
I rang Vincent. The call went straight to voicemail.
I rang Olive. Straight to voicemail.
I rang Vincent again. Still no answer.
The silence was excruciating, but I was determined to keep trying. I had found a quiet table in the cafeteria and
was sitting on my own, constantly pressing redial whilst simultaneously trying to ignore the whispers and
gossiping from various students around me.
I didnt know what to do. I thought about just going home like Mrs. Patricks had suggested, but I couldnt leave
college without trying to sort things out with Olive. And, of course, I had to speak to Vincent. Only I had no idea
where hed gone or if he was even in the building anymore.
As I was starting to sink into a pit of pure despair, my phone buzzed with an incoming text message. I opened it
immediately and discovered it was from Olive.
Scotty stop ringing me, Im in class. I dont want to talk to you.
My heart sunk. I could tell by the sharp tone of her words that she was furious. But at least she was engaging
with me, which was a step up from Vincent. I replied back to her straight away.
Olive, please dont be like this. Will you meet up with me and just let me explain? I love you. x
I hit send, praying with all my might that she would take pity on me and give me the chance to apologise. It felt
like ages until she answered me, but eventually a response buzzed through.
OK. My last lesson finishes at 3.30pm. Ill meet you by the tennis court.
It was gut-wrenching to read messages from Olive that were so curt and emotionless. I knew I must have hurt her
deeply because she had never spoken to me like this before in all our years of friendship.
But at least she was agreeing to talk to me. I had the chance to make this right again.
--I had some time to kill whilst I waited for Olive and I wanted to be anywhere other than college. I ended up
meandering over to a public bench that resided just outside the entrance to the student carpark.
I rang Vincent again and this time I left a voicemail.
Vincent Im sorry. Im so sorry. I dont really know what else I can say to you right now Just, please talk to
me. I need you to know what happened You dont know the whole story. Nothing has changed for me. I still

love you and want to be with you. So please dont shut me out like this. Ill be right here waiting until youre ready
to speak to me. OK? I love you so much.
I didnt know what more I could say so I ended the call there.
Then I curled up on the bench and shut my eyes for a few moments. Maybe when I opened them again, my life
would have returned back to normal.
--Olive walked briskly up to me as I was sitting on the grass waiting for her. She was holding a handful of
workbooks and her eyes couldnt quite meet mine directly.
Olly, I called to her affectionately. Youre here Come and sit down with me.
She pulled her workbooks tighter to her chest. I think Ill stand thanks.
I had hoped she would have calmed down during the day, but it didnt seem like she had in the slightest. I looked
toward her beseechingly.
Come on Ol, please dont be like this with me. Were best friends.
No! she snapped. Obviously were NOT best friends are we?
I felt tears pricking at my eyes. How could she say that?
Of course we are.
Then how could you keep something like this from me? she bellowed. Ive been thinking about it all day and I
just cant get my head around it! All this time Ive been defending you against Taylor. Ive always stuck up for you
and given you pep talks about him and you were seeing him?! How do you think that makes me feel Scotty?
Its like I dont even know who you are anymore
I jumped up from where I was sitting and took her hands in mine.
Im me! Im still the same old Scotty! And I wanted to tell you, but I just couldnt I was trying to protect you.
She yanked her hands away from me. Protect me? Or protect yourself?
No, its not like that, I said, my voice quivering.
You HATE Taylor Raven! Olive continued. It just doesnt make any sense! Its like everything Ive ever known is
a total lie. All those talks weve had about him and why he kept harassing you It feels as though youve just
been having a right laugh at my expense.
No! I cried. Of course I havent! You were just looking out for me. I wanted to tell you the whole story, but I was
scared...

What about Vincent? Olive pointed out accusingly. I thought you loved him! Was that just a lie too? I cant
believe you could cheat on him like that!
This was unbearable. Is that what everybody thought had happened? Is that what Vincent thought too?
I would never cheat on Vincent! I answered defensively. That picture of me and Taylor isnt what it looks like
But it said you slept with him! Olive shot back. Or are you saying thats not true?
I winced. No, its true But it wasnt recently, it was years ago.
Olive did a double take. YEARS AGO? You mean this has been happening for YEARS and you never once told
me?!
I stumbled over my answer. No, I Well, its complicated
I could see her blue eyes filling with tears behind her thick glasses.
There I was getting all worried about you getting a boyfriend and moving on from me But I guess you moved
on from me a long time ago.
I tried to reach out for her again. Olive, dont be ridiculous! This doesnt change anything about us!
She took a big step backward from me so that I couldnt touch her.
It changes everything, Scotty.
With that, she walked away. I watched her go, feeling my heart break a little more with every step she took.
--It took a while for me to find the energy to actually move again. I just laid there in the middle of the courtyard for a
few minutes, letting the feeling of rock bottom crush me completely with its ever-increasing weight.
My boyfriend hated me. My best friend hated me. My ex-lover was intent on ruining my life by any means
possible. And then there was me. I didnt even know who I was anymore or why I did any of the things I did.
I had to get back to the good person I knew I really was. I had to stop being scared and telling lies out of fear. I
looked up at the sky above me, which for once was a light shade of blue rather than the dismal grey that had
hung over Havensdale for so long. The only way left was up. It was time to confront my demons and take my life
back.
I stood up and pointed myself in the right direction. I had to go to Vincents and find him. I had to tell him the
whole truth. Maybe he didnt want to speak to me right now, but I had to try.
I headed across the courtyard to the exit, my mind focused on Vincent. But as I passed by the tennis court,
something made me stop. I could hear a strange noise. It sounded like crying.

I followed the sound across the grass and all the way to the P.E. cupboard opposite the court. The cupboard door
was slightly ajar and I gently pushed it open.
Taylor Raven was slumped on the floor, wedged between two boxes of sports equipment. It was quite dark, but I
could clearly see it was him. He had his head in his hands and was outwardly weeping with so much force that
his whole body shook.
He looked up as I opened the cupboard door. When he saw me, he cried even harder.
I should have been glad to see Taylor like this. He had put me through so much over the years and printing off
those photographs for the whole school to see was utterly unforgivable. In fact, the last time I had been in this
horrible cupboard was when Taylor had so callously locked me inside it after beating me up. This was karma and
I should have laughed in his face and slammed the door on him. I would have been lying if I said a small part of
me didnt feel like executing vengeance in that way.
But it was only a small part. Mostly I just felt sad. This was never the way I wanted things to end up for him. For
us. I was pretty sure he didnt want things to be this way either.
As I watched him crying in a heap on the floor, I realised he was just a scared little boy who was in way over his
head. He was the boy who I had loved once upon a time, with pizza sauce smeared on his face. He was the boy
who used to kiss me so sweetly whenever we were alone together.
I opened the cupboard door a little wider and walked toward him. He looked up at me, his breathing laboured
through his tears.
I Im sorry Scotty Ive been so awful to you I dont know why I keep doing these things Im sorry Im
so sorry
He was bordering on hysterical as he wept openly in front of me.
I made a decision then and there. This was all going to stop.
All the pain, all the hurt, all the anger.
It had to stop.
Softly, I sat down beside Taylor and took his hand. I entwined my fingers tightly with his.
I forgive you, Taylor. Its all going to be OK.
He looked bewildered at my gesture at first. Then he rested his head on my shoulder, letting the remainder of his
tears spill out.
I stroked his head and placed a gentle kiss on top of his blonde hair.
Well sort this out. It will all be alright.
Maybe we couldnt go back and change the past. But we could change the present. And I was refusing to let any
more of my story end in hatred and anger. It was time to fix everything in my life and it had to start here.

Chapter 42
Making Things Right
We sat in silence for a few minutes. Taylor had finally calmed down but was keeping his head resting on my
shoulder. I carried on stroking his hair as his breathing slowly started going back to normal. Every so often he let
out a stuttered little breath, caused by the sheer amount of emotion he had just unleashed. My fingers were still
intertwined with his and I squeezed his hand firmly.
Eventually, Taylor moved his head off my shoulder, sitting himself back up to look at me.
Why are you being so nice to me? I dont deserve it. Ive been horrible to you.
I exhaled slowly, thinking carefully about my response.
Yeah. You HAVE been horrible. But everyone deserves a second chance.
I saw more tears brim up in Taylors eyes and he twisted his head away from me, trying to compose himself. After
a moment, he turned back to me.
"I don't even know why I put those photos up. As soon as everyone saw them I wanted to take it all back. I've just
been suffocating every single day of my fucking life... It seemed like the only way out of it. I didn't think about how
much hurt it would cause."
He rolled his eyes up to the splintered wooden ceiling, a look of despair flickering across his face. Then he
brought his gaze back to me.
Scotty, what am I going to do now? How do I go out there and face everyone? He unclasped his fingers from
mine and wiped his face with the back of his hand. Im not strong like you are.
I made an incredulous noise. You think Im strong? Im an absolute coward.
Oh, so what if you didnt tell Vincent about us, Taylor muttered. Youre still strong. Youve always been so open
about who you are. And youre so bloody sure of yourself You never apologise for the things you like. I dont
have a fucking clue who I am or where Im going...
He brought his knees up to his chin, lost in thought. I rubbed his arm.
So figure it out. Stop lashing out at everybody else and start taking control of your own life Taylor.
You dont understand, he replied sharply. Its OK for you. Youre smart Scotty. Youre destined to go on to uni
and then get an amazing job afterwards. Life is going to be great for you. I always knew that you would be fine,
whatever happened to you. But me? What do I have other than tennis? This is the only shot I have and now I
guess Ive fucked up my one and only chance.
Why do you think that then? I asked genuinely.

Taylor shot me an exasperated look. Youve met my Dad, Scotty. Hes going to hit the roof when this comes out.
And as much as I hate his attitude, I know hes right. If people know Im gay its going to affect my career. How
many professional sports stars do you know who are out?
I know how difficult it is, I replied. The world is really unfair and sometimes people will judge you. But more and
more athletes are coming out now in the sports world. And youre really good Taylor. You could be one of the
people to change things. You could be a pioneer!
He gave a shrug. I guess. Then he heaved a massive sigh. I dont even know if I want to play anymore. I cant
remember the last time I actually enjoyed a match.
He stopped talking and we sat quietly for a few seconds.
Taylor, I said after a moments pause. I want to give you some advice that Ive learned over the years.
He looked to me. Whats that?
I hugged my knees, mirroring his position. Life is precious. We all think we have so much time, but it can be
gone in the blink of an eye. When my Dad died, it made me realise that more than ever.
Taylor said nothing, but I could tell that he was listening intently. I carried on talking.
You cant waste a single second worrying about what other people think. You have to do what you love. And love
who you love. Youre never going to please everyone in this life. You just have to do what makes you happy and
be the best person you can be. I know sometimes thats hard, but its so much better than living a lie. You have
one life Taylor, so you have to live it well. Live it right.
I was saying the words for Taylors benefit, but I knew that I also needed to hear them myself. I noticed that his
eyes looked watery again and I patted him comfortingly on the shoulder.
Scotty, he started tentatively, I never meant any of the cruel things Ive ever said or done to you. I know Ive
told you awful things, like you were the biggest mistake of my life But in actual fact, youre the only thing I ever
got right in my life. Youre the smartest, kindest and bravest person Ive ever known. I dont know how I was ever
so terrible to you. Im just totally fucked up.
Its OK, I replied. You were just scared. But youre not going to be scared anymore, right?
Taylor gave me a very faint smile. Right. He reached out and lightly brushed a strand of my curly hair behind my
ear.
I addressed him warningly. Taylor
He slowly pulled his hand away.
Im never going to get you back am I?
Im in love with Vincent, I answered directly. Im sorry Taylor. Its too late for us now.
He looked wounded, but he didnt try and fight me. It seemed like he was finally accepting the truth.

I reached out for his hand.

I still want to be your friend though. And I want you to know that I really loved you when we were together. I was
having a tough time back then, but being with you helped me get through it.
Taylor hung his head shamefully. Until I made everything worse. I fucking hate myself for it, Scotty.
Well, now were changing the end of the story, I said, gripping his hand. Now Im going to look back on my first
time and know it was with someone who loved me an incredible amount.
I did, Taylor whispered. I still do.
I rubbed his hand with my thumb.
Taylor One day in the future, you are going to find someone who loves you so much. Theyre out there waiting.
You just have to be ready to accept their feelings when you finally meet them. But I promise you that you will find
the love and acceptance youre looking for. I promise.
There was a long pause.
But he wont be you, Taylor eventually said in a quiet voice.
No, he wont be me, I repeated. Hell be better than me.
--The wind was cold and biting as I stood outside of Vincents block of flats.
After my heart to heart with Taylor, I had taken the bus straight there. I didnt know if Vincent was even home, but
I had to start looking for him somewhere. He definitely wasnt at college, as I had searched everywhere for him
before I left. I had tried calling and texting him a few more times, but he still wasnt answering me. This silent
treatment was driving me insane.
I pressed the buzzer to his flat, but he didnt pick up. I wasnt sure if he was inside and just ignoring me, or if I
was trying to get through to an empty room. I kept buzzing up to him, but it was all in vain.
In the end, I sat myself down outside the front steps leading to his building. I would just have to wait. If Vincent
was inside then he would have to come out eventually. And if he was out somewhere then I was going to make
sure I was the first thing he saw when he got back home. I was determined not to leave until I had spoken to him.
I sat for an hour. The sky above was growing darker and the wind was getting sharper, but I felt totally resilient. I
would have stayed there all night if Id had to. Fortunately, as I sat shivering in the dimming evening light, a
middle-aged neighbour rounded the corner and approached the building. She gave me a curious look as she
passed by me on the steps.
Are you alright there love?
This was my chance.

Oh hi, I said in the most cheerful manner I could muster. Im actually flat-sitting for a friend over the weekend,
but Ive stupidly locked myself out. I broke my key in the lock...
I live on the first floor, Ill let you in, the neighbour said as she scrambled in her bag for her keys. Is it just the
entrance door you cant get into?
Err, yeah, I replied. Ive still got the key to his flat and he left me a spare inside for the main entrance. I cant
believe how stupid I am!
Dont worry love, the lady said, opening the door. Ive done it myself.
I stood up and entered the building. Thanks so much, youre a lifesaver!
She smiled in response, oblivious to just how much I meant that sentiment.
--I bounded up the stairs two at a time until I was outside of Vincents flat number. I started banging frantically on
the front door.
Vincent! Vincent, are you in there?
I could hear a stirring inside, but there was no answer. I crouched down and peered through the letterbox.
I could just about see him. He was sitting on the couch in the living room with his back turned to me. He looked
small and withdrawn. I had never seen him that way before and it felt like a stab in my heart.
Please, Vincent. Just talk to me.
I was getting nothing back. I turned around and sat on the floor, leaning against the back of the door.
I know you can hear me in there, I called out. So Im just going to speak to you whether you like it or not.
I waited a few moments in case there was any movement. There wasnt. I sighed.
Vincent I should never have lied to you. I dont know why I did I dont think I really comprehended how much
of a lie it was or how much it would hurt you. It just ran away with me and I was so scared of losing you. But you
have to know, I never cheated on you. It happened years ago before we even knew each other. Taylor was the
first guy I slept with, it happened one time and then he dumped me. And hes been holding it over my head ever
since. He threatened to ruin my whole life if anyone ever found out about us.
I paused for a second, listening for any kind of response. There was still nothing, but I carried on.
That stupid picture isnt what it looks like. He was drunk and tried to kiss me, but I pushed him away. He still had
feelings for me and he was screwed up. Ive never wanted to be with him though. Its you I want to be with. Its
always been you from the moment I bumped into you in the hallway and you called me Specs for the first time
Nothing has ever been a lie when it comes to how I feel about you. I love you, Vincent...

I could hear my voice wobbling as my emotions overcame me. I didnt know if I was saying the right thing, but I
was saying what I wanted Vincent to hear. The truth, straight from my heart.
The silence around me was deafening. I was giving up hope that anything I could say would ever make things
right again.
I stood up on shaky legs. Maybe it was time to go To leave Vincent in peace and surrender
And then, he opened the door.

Chapter 43
The Argument
Vincent stood silently in the doorway. It looked as though he had been crying as his eyes were red and bleary.
Without thinking, I reached out to hold him.
Oh, Vincent...
Dont, Scotty, he said sternly. I pulled away, his words scalding me like fire.
I saw his eyes flash with regret as I took a small step backward from him. It was as though he was conflicted
between pushing me away and bringing me close to him. He scanned his gaze across my face, his expression
unreadable.
How did you get inside the building?
Ive been waiting outside, I answered. One of your neighbours let me in.
He looked a little surprised. How long have you been outside for?
I looked down at the carpeted floor. I dont know, about an hour. Can I come in?
Vincent was now leaning against the doorframe, his head thrown up toward the ceiling in pained thought. After a
moment, he brought his eyesight back to me.
I dont know if I can do this right now. I think maybe you should just go.
Frustration seared through me. I hadnt waited all this time for him to keep giving me the cold shoulder.
Im not going anywhere! I cried. Not until you talk to me.
Without thinking, I barged past him straight into his living room. He was so shocked at my boldness that he didnt
attempt to stop me. I turned to face him. My skin felt hot and my chest was pounding.
I cant take this silence anymore, I yelled. Please just talk to me!
Vincent slammed the door shut behind me and stormed into the living room.
What exactly do you want me to say to you, Scotty? That youve broken my fucking heart? Because thats pretty
much whats happening right now.
Dont say that, I whispered with a wince.
Vincent subtly drew a finger underneath his eye. I could tell he was on the verge of crying and that he didnt want
me to witness it.

I told you things Ive never told anyone else and now I feel like an absolute fool. I dont know why I was stupid
enough to think you were different than everyone else in my life. I should have realised it was all too good to be
true.
I felt my temper slowly rising. I knew Vincent would be angry, but did he really think so little of me now? Or was
he just trying to hurt me on purpose?
Vincent, youre not being fair. I know I should have told you about Taylor, but it was just one stupid mistake. You
know how much I love you. How could you think that wasnt true?
I dont know what to think anymore! he shouted. I feel like I dont even know you.
A lump was forming in my throat, but I was determined not to cry.
Of course you know me. Im still the same person Ive always been. I just happen to have a past that you didnt
know about. And Im so sorry I didnt tell you, there is no excuse for it. I was scared and stupid and I didnt want
to lose you But nothing is any different when it comes to me and you. Its just a silly relationship from years ago
that doesnt mean anything anymore. Its not like you dont have a history too.
Yes, but I told you about my history! Vincent retorted frostily. Before anything serious happened between us. I
told you everything! Apparently you couldnt give me the same respect back.
I hated the way he was phrasing my actions. It was as though I had purposefully manipulated him through my
lies, when the truth was that I had only ever been trying to protect what we had.
I wanted to tell you, I said. But it just got harder and harder, and I didnt know how. Especially after you had
defended me so much from Taylors bullying How was I supposed to tell you?
You should have tried! Vincent growled. He ran his hands through his dark hair despairingly. Taylor fucking
Raven of all the fucking people! I dont even understand how its possible that you were ever with him. It makes
me feel sick!
He was different at the start, I replied softly. It was only after wed been together that he changed.
Vincents eyes looked wild as I mentioned Taylors past character.
Oh, dont tell me you were in fucking love with him? Not with that vile, hideous little creature who treats you as
his own personal punching bag?
I stood firmly against Vincents verbal attack. Yes, actually, I was in love with him. At the time. He was different
then and I cant pretend that he meant nothing to me. Im sorry.
Vincent looked as though he was about to keel over with pain. As though my words were metal bullets firing into
him from every angle. It was killing me to say these things to him, but there was no point in sugar-coating it
anymore. He wanted the truth and I had to tell him.
He took a tentative step toward me. It made my heart ache to see him looking so vulnerable, as if one more blow
would knock him to the floor.

Scotty, I cant bear this, he whispered. I thought I thought that I was your first time. Its killing me to know you
already shared that with him and I didnt even know That night was so perfect and now its like none of it was
real. Its like hes taken you from me...
He brought his hand shakily up to my face, brushing my cheek tenderly. I put my hand on his.
Of course it was real. And perfect. And everything I could have ever dreamed of. All I had with Taylor was some
stupid fumble in the P.E. cupboard and then it was all over. It was nothing like being with you. As far as Im
concerned, it was the first time that ever counted.
I thought for a second that Vincent was about to lean in and kiss me. But then he took his hand off my cheek and
our faces parted.
Does Taylor still love you? he asked me bluntly. Is that why hes been harassing you all this time? Because he
wanted you, but he couldnt have you?
Something like that I muttered.
Vincent sighed painfully. I cant believe I couldnt see it Its been right in front of my fucking face and Ive been
oblivious.
Well, Ive never returned his advances, I said defensively. Whatever that stupid picture looked like
I could see a light go on in Vincents head at the mention of the picture.
Was he behind that stupid stunt in the school hallway? All those photos? Was that his sick way of trying to stake
his claim on you or something?
I didnt know how to explain everything to Vincent. Id finally made my peace with Taylor, but that was the last
thing Vincent wanted to hear from me. As far as he was concerned, Taylor was the scum of the earth. If I told him
that I had forgiven him then I knew he would hit the roof.
Yes, Taylor was behind the photos. I think it was the only way he knew how to deal with everything. Hes just a
scared little boy lashing out.
Vincent rolled his eyes. Hurting everyone he knows is the only way he can deal with things? Doing something so
evil How can you even try and excuse his behaviour?!
Im not excusing it, I retorted. But Im tired of being angry all the bloody time! Its exhausting! I just want to go
back to a normal life again. I need you to forgive me and move on from this whole horrible mess.
Vincent didnt react to me asking for his forgiveness. Instead, he began to pace the floor of the living room.
Hang on, if Taylor is behind that photo then who actually took it? Where did it even come from?
I swallowed nervously. I didnt want to rat out Alexis, but I didnt have much of a choice.
Alexis did. But Taylors actions have got nothing to do with her, so dont drag her into all this.

Alexis?! Vincent yelled. You mean she knew as well?

I saw him clench his fist, anger pulsating through him.
She knew, I confirmed reluctantly. Thats why she attacked me and was trying to make my life so difficult. She
thought I was cheating on you and she was just trying to protect you. But I spoke to her and she made me realise
how stupid I was for not telling you the truth. Thats why I rang you up last night, I was planning on telling you
everything. It was never meant to go this far
I found myself slumping down on Vincents sofa, all my energy draining from me. I was sick of arguing the same
thing over and over again. How many more times could I apologise?
For a while, I sat there saying nothing while Vincent hovered over me. We were at a stalemate, neither of us quite
sure how to proceed on.
Eventually, Vincent spoke. Scotty, I have no fucking clue what to think anymore. Its like everyone in my life has
all been in on your little secret and Im the only idiot who didnt know. I just feel so betrayed. All Ive ever done
is love you...
I felt horrible. I was the most horrible person who had ever lived.
Vincent, Im sorry. Im truly sorry with every fibre of my being. I dont know what else to tell you. Other than I
never cheated on you and I love you with my whole heart.
I rested my head in my hands. The room was starting to spin around me.
Vincent sat down beside me. He didnt reach out to me, but our legs were touching closely together. I peered out
at him from behind my hands.
Please just tell me that youll forgive me.
He brushed his hand against the side of my face for a fraction of a moment.
I think I just need a bit of space for a while.
That was not what I wanted to hear.
Are you are you breaking up with me?
I couldnt bear to hear the answer, but I had to know.
I dont know, Vincent replied.
The next second felt like an enormous cavern between us. My heart dropped to my stomach and all I wanted to
do was cry.
I think Id better go, I said finally.

Then I stood up and hurried out of the apartment before Vincent could say anything else to shatter my heart even
more.

Chapter 44
Repercussions
There was a tentative knock at my bedroom door.
Scotty, do you fancy some lunch? Ive got a nice crusty loaf in.
I rolled over on my bed to face the wall.
No thanks Mum, Im not hungry.
There was a click as the door opened and Mum entered the room.
Is everything OK my love? Youve been stuck up here all weekend, Im getting a bit worried about you Why
dont you give Olive a call? It would do you good to get out for a bit.
My voice was slightly muffled as I squashed myself into my pillow. Olives not talking to me.
Not talking to you?! Mum repeated in alarm. What do you mean?
I mean shes not talking to me, I replied in a deadpan tone.
Mum came over and sat down on the bed. She started stroking my hair like she used to do when I was little.
I dont know whats going on with you two, but Im sure its nothing you cant both sort out. Youve been friends
for forever and a day!
I turned over and sat up a little bit. I dont know Mum Ive done something really stupid and now everybody
hates me. I just dont know what to do.
I could tell my Mum was torn between pushing me for more information and respecting my privacy. I wanted to
talk to her, but at the same time, I couldnt bear to tell her the whole messy story. I didnt want my own mother
hating me too.
She carried on stroking my hair comfortingly. Well everyone makes mistakes Scotty. All you can do is keep trying
to make it right. If the people in your life really care about you then theyll forgive you. And if they dont then
maybe theyre not the right people for you after all.
This was not the sort of advice I wanted to hear. The thought of Vincent not forgiving me and walking out of my
life was too much to bear.
Im so proud of you Scotty, my Mum continued. Youre my good little boy and youve coped so well when things
have been incredibly difficult for us. Youve been through so much, but you always keep that little smile on your
face. Were all allowed to mess up now and then, so if your friends cant cut you a bit of slack well fuck em my
darling!
I shot up in surprise. MUM!

I mean it Scotty! Fuck em all!

STOP SAYING THAT MUM!
She had a mischievous smile on her face.
Well, that seemed to catch your attention. So now youre up, why dont you stop wallowing and get out of your
bloody bedroom.
Yes Mum.
--As hard as it was to take my Mums advice, I knew she was right. Giving up and sitting alone in my room wasnt
going to get me anywhere. I decided to leave the house for an hour and take the bus down to the local high
street. There was nothing I needed to buy, but I thought a change of scenery and some fresh air might help clear
my mind.
I was trying not to check my phone every five seconds. It didnt matter how much I looked at it, my inbox was still
empty. I hadnt heard a word from Vincent since our heated discussion on Friday night. He told me he had
wanted space so I wasnt going to make the first move. Id just hoped that after a while he might have started
missing me
But maybe he was realising that he could live just fine without me.
I tried to push him out of my mind. I couldnt keep going over and over the situation, it was driving me insane. I
had to find something else to focus my energy on.
Olive. I had to do something for Olive. Maybe there was nothing I could do to stop Vincent from shutting me out,
but surely I had to be able to get through to my best friend? She was still ignoring me too. In fact, it was the
longest we had ever gone without speaking But there had to be something I could do to fix our friendship. I
knew it was stronger than one stupid argument.
I searched around the shops trying to find some kind of apology present. Flowers seemed too clich and
jewellery just wasnt enough to express how I felt about her. It needed to be something much more personal that
reflected all our years of friendship.
Just when I was losing hope at ever finding the right present, I stumbled across a row of blank books in a
stationary store. Feeling inspired, I bought a scrapbook and some glue.
There was nothing more personal than a homemade present. Plus having a big project to work on would be a
very welcome distraction.
--Three hours later, I was lying on my bedroom floor surrounded by photographs of myself and Olive. Not only had
I trawled the internet for pictures, I had also found a whole stack of physical photos from over the years in the
depths of my desk drawer. It had taken me ages to scan them all into my computer and print them out, and now I
was going to start sticking them down in the scrapbook.

It had been so nostalgic looking through them all. There were photos of us in junior school when Olives hair had
been even bigger and bouncier than it was now. She looked so cute in every shot and I looked exactly the same
as I do now, just slightly smaller. We had pictures of us doing the school play where we were both trees in the
background, but playing our parts with gusto. There was also a shot of us both sitting on the sidelines during
school sports day, giggling our heads off while the other kids were running a race.
I had plenty of photos of us in later years too. There was a really funny one of me dressed in drag and sitting in
Olives lap at her sixteenth birthday party. I even had recent snaps of her in action at the Battle Of The Bands,
talking into the microphone and commanding the stage.
As I looked through so many years of memories, I could feel a lump forming in my throat. How could I have kept
such a massive secret from her for so long? She had always been there for me and now I needed her more than
ever, but I had ruined everything between us.
I stuck down a really nice photo of the two of us, just posing naturally in front of the camera with our arms around
each other. Then I wrote a long message in the back of the book telling her how sorry I was and how much I
loved her. I wanted to know that these wouldnt be the last photos of us. We had so many more books to fill up
with memories.
Whilst I was in the middle of writing my message, I heard my phone ping with an email sound. I grabbed for it
urgently, hoping that it would be a message from either Olive or Vincent.
It wasnt from either of them. It was from Alexis.
Hey Scotty,
I take it things didnt go too well with Vincent?
If its any consolation, hes not really talking to me either.
Al
I was surprised that she was trying to reach out to me. It was pretty ironic that it had taken these circumstances
to finally connect with her. Vincent had only ever wanted us to get along. Now we finally were and he wasnt even
speaking to either of us. I typed back a reply on my phone.
Hi Alexis,
Sorry hes giving you the silent treatment too. We havent spoken since Friday.
I just dont know what to do.
Scotty x
I carried on working on my scrapbook and as I finished another page, a second email pinged through.
Well its less than two weeks to the showcase gig so Im going to have to see him next week to practice.
Whether he bloody likes it or not.

Ill try and talk to him. I told you, he gets like this sometimes But Im sure hell come round.
Al x
I had completely forgotten about Vincents gig. Next week was the last week of term and the showcase was the
following week, during the Easter holidays. I had been so excited to go to the venue and support him, but now I
probably wasnt even welcome there.
The urge to text Vincent then and there was all-consuming, but I fought it and carried on cutting and sticking
instead.
--On Monday morning, I went straight to Mrs. Patrickss office, passing straight by the hordes of gossipers along
the way. Apparently a weekend away from college had done nothing to stop peoples excitement of the
Scotty/Taylor photo scandal. It was still big news and it wasnt going to go away anytime soon.
Mrs. Patricks had informed me the week before to meet with her first thing on Monday in order to talk about what
the next steps were regarding the photo sabotage. She was obviously hoping to find out who was responsible
and punish them accordingly.
Now I knew that Taylor had been behind it all, I had no idea what to do. We had sorted things out in our own way
and I didnt want to get him into trouble. I wasnt sure what I could say to protect him, but as I reached Mrs.
Patrickss office, I discovered that I didnt have to say anything. Taylor was already sitting inside and confessing
to his crime.
I opened the office door timidly, looking between Taylor and Mrs. Patricks. They both looked very serious. I also
noticed that Taylor had a few bruised markings on his arm. I could guess who had given them those and it made
me shudder to look at them.
Mrs. Patricks looked up and addressed me. Scotty. Come and sit down. I think weve got to the bottom of this
situation. Mr. Raven has owned up to posting the photographs.
Taylors gaze was fixed firmly on the floor. I could tell this was humiliating for him.
I know, I said calmly. I found out late on Friday.
As I have told Taylor, Mrs. Patricks continued, his behaviour is absolutely unacceptable and we will have no
choice but to suspend him, with his permanent expulsion to be discussed.
My heart jolted in shock. Havensdale had always been so easy on Taylor in the past, but now they were
considering expelling him?
Mrs. Patricks, I dont want him to be expelled, I said firmly. I spoke with him on Friday and weve made our
peace. Hes being punished enough by everyone else over this, I dont want anything else bad to happen to him.
Scotty, its fine, Taylor mumbled. I deserve it. Stop interfering.

I couldnt help but put my hand on his bruised arm. I whispered under my breath so that Mrs. Patricks wouldnt
hear. What, you deserve this? Was this from your Dad?
He wrenched his arm away. Just shut up Scotty!
Mrs. Patricks cleared her throat to get our attention. Luckily she hadnt seemed to notice my comment about
Taylors Dad.
Boys, thats enough! Now whilst Im pleased to hear you have sorted out your differences, that doesnt excuse
the fact that Taylor has victimised another student as well as disrupted the whole school with his actions. Not to
mention his complete lack of respect for school property.
Both Taylor and I sat in silence. There wasnt much we could say to counter any of those claims.
Mrs. Patricks folded her hands neatly together. Perhaps we can overlook expulsion in this instance if Scotty has
decided not to press the issue. However, a weeks suspension is non-negotiable.
Taylor nodded solemnly, his eyes still on the floor.
What about your tennis matches? I exclaimed. Isnt this going to affect them?
Im afraid Taylor will have to sit out of his next match, Mrs. Patricks answered for him. Suspended students are
not allowed to represent the school or sixth form in any sporting events across Havensdale.
But isnt it a big match? I asked anxiously. Wont it affect you getting to the national finals?
Mrs. Patricks shot Taylor an icy glare. Perhaps Mr. Raven should have thought of that before he acted the way
he did.
Taylor didnt answer. He hung his head down, wilfully accepting his fate.
--I stood outside Mrs. Patrickss door with Taylor beside me. We had finally both been excused, but while I was
heading back to lessons, he was going straight back home.
Im sorry Taylor, I said genuinely.
Why are you sorry? Taylor muttered. This is my own fucking fault.
Thank you anyway, I said. It was brave of you to come clean about everything.
He gave an embarrassed shrug. I just wanted to start as I mean to go on. And anyway, I told you Im sick of
tennis. In a way, its sort of a relief to get out of that game.
I still couldnt help but look at his bruised arm as he was talking. He must have noticed because he then folded
his arms self-consciously in front of himself. To other people, the bruises must have looked sports-related, but I
knew they couldnt have been.

I remembered how unreasonable his Dad had been toward him when he had been caught seeing me. Mr. Raven
was bound to be apoplectic with rage at the fact Taylor was now suspended from his next match. Let alone the
fact his sexuality was now no longer a secret.
I touched his arm gently. Come on, lets get out of here. Ill walk with you.
Taylor didnt respond, but he stuck firmly by my side as we walked along the corridor.
We had been in Mrs. Patrickss office for a while and there was now a slight hustle and bustle around as students
were changing lessons. I could hear people gasp and giggle as they saw the two of us together. Everyone had
been so shocked that Taylor was gay and even more shocked that he had ever been with someone like me.
Especially when they all thought Patricia was the love of his life. I didnt dare to ask how she was reacting to all of
this. My guess was that she wouldnt be taking it too well.
Taylor looked mortified as we passed the baying mobs of students.
Dont listen to those idiots, I said into his ear. Theyre not worth getting upset about.
I guess, he answered quietly. He was looking down at the ground, trying to avoid making eye contact with
anyone in close vicinity.
We rounded the corner to the school reception. The crowds had died down and the area was empty. Even the
school receptionist was away from her desk.
Well, Id better get to class, I said. Take care of yourself Taylor.
I reached out and rubbed his arm in a friendly manner.
It was at that point that Vincent walked through the sliding doors and saw us both.

Chapter 45
Friends Forever
As soon as Vincent saw Taylor, he lost it.
You fucking wanker!
With all the force of a hurricane, he swept straight up to Taylor and pushed him up against the nearest wall.
Do you realise how much shit youve caused?! How could you do this?!
Vincents hands clenched furiously around Taylors shirt collar.
Im sorry, Taylor choked out, his face turning a little blue.
I ran up to the two of them, trying to break up the altercation.
Vincent, stop it!
I reached out for his shoulder to try and pull him away. He shook off my touch and then preceded to throw
Taylors body against the wall as though he weighed nothing.
Vincent! I cried out again.
He turned to me with a look of annoyance, gesturing to Taylor who was crouching over and trying to get his
breath back.
Why do you keep defending him?!
He knows what he did was wrong, I answered forcefully. You dont need to resort to violence, youre better than
this!
Vincents expression was pained. What if Im not better than this Scotty? Because right now, all I want to do is
smash his smug little face in.
Taylor was stuck to the spot, looking absolutely terrified. I really didnt know what to do. This was the first time I
had spoken to Vincent since Friday night and it was not exactly how I had envisioned things going.
Suddenly, Alexis burst in through the sliding doors. She had obviously been tailing just behind Vincent, which
meant he must have been talking to her again. It stung me that he could forgive her but keep ignoring me.
What the fuck is going on? she exclaimed as she took in the scene before her.
Taylor took the opportunity to run whilst Alexis was causing a distraction. He barged past all of us and sped out
into the student carpark as fast as his legs would carry him.
Vincent shouted out behind him at the top of his lungs. YEAH, KEEP RUNNING! THIS ISNT OVER RAVEN!

At the sound of his yelling, the school receptionist popped her head around the corner and walked briskly back to
her desk.
Excuse me, whats going on out here? Is everything alright?
Vincent shoved his hands into his jacket pockets and stormed back out of reception in silence. Alexis tried to
follow him and he snapped at her.
Just piss off Alexis! None of this would be happening if it wasnt for that stupid fucking picture you took.
Vincent, come on, she whined. You said you understood What about band practice?
Well do it later, he grunted. Until then, I just want to be on my own.
As Vincent walked away, I felt a surge of anger. He was shutting out everyone yet again, including me. How could
he keep being so cold toward me? I knew what I did was wrong, but I was getting a little bit sick and tired of being
treated like dirt by the people who claimed to love me.
Boldly, I followed him out into the carpark and called out to him.
Hey! Stop turning your back on me!
He paused mid-walk and turned to face me. I could see that Alexis was listening in from reception, but she didnt
dare to come any closer and interrupt us.
What am I supposed to do? I cried out. I cant keep apologising for what happened. You either forgive me or
you dont. But I cant keep hanging on while you decide whether you love me or not.
I hadnt quite admitted these feelings to myself yet, but now I was yelling them out loudly across the length of the
carpark. After a whole weekend of silence, Id had enough.
If I wasnt mistaken, I saw Vincents eyes glaze over with a watery film. He blinked and they returned to normal.
Then he stepped forward, moving closer to me.
Scotty, of course I fucking love you...
My breath hitched in my throat as he said the words I had longed to hear. I moved my hand toward him, but he
took a step backward.
but I just cant get the thought of you and him out my head. Every time I close my eyes, its all I can think
about. Its destroying me.
Vincent looked utterly distressed. I hated the fact that his inner-turmoil was all because of me.
Its in the past, I said softly. I cant change it now.
I know, Vincent replied. But you still care about him dont you? After everything hes done to you.
Not in that way! I exclaimed back. Its complicated

Vincent brought his hands to his temples, causing his dark hair to flop forward and cover his eyes. All I wanted to
do was run over to him and kiss him. But I couldnt.
What can I do? I asked tentatively. How do I make everything alright again?
I dont know, Vincent answered bluntly.
We stood looking at each other for a few moments, neither of us quite sure how to proceed on. Finally, Vincent
broke the silence.
Look Scotty, Im late for class. Ive got to go.
He started to leave and I shouted after him in a panic.
Vincent, wait! We cant leave things like this. Please dont go.
Im sorry, he replied sadly over his shoulder. I just need more time. Im sorry Scotty.
And with that, he walked away.
--Somehow my day carried on. I put one foot in front of the other and went to lessons like everything was fine. Like
my heart wasnt aching so much I could barely move.
When it got to lunchtime, I found an empty corner in the cafeteria and sprawled myself across one of the tables. I
didnt feel like eating anything. I just wanted to die quietly without making too much of a fuss.
Whilst I was lying in a heap across the table, I saw Olive enter the cafeteria and sit down at the opposite end of
the room. Propping myself back up, I gathered up my courage and walked over to her.
She was sitting alone, eating a bowl of pasta. As I approached, she started to look aimlessly around the room as
though she hadnt seen me. I wasnt sure if she was still angry or just feeling guilty about ignoring me all
weekend. Either way, I had to try and get her attention. I brought my face up close to hers.
Hey Olive, I said directly. I know youre still angry with me. But I really need you right now. Youre my best
friend.
She hesitantly brought her gaze to me.
Scotty, if Im your best friend then why didnt you ever talk to me? Over all those years? Her blue eyes looked
big and hurt. Im sorry for ignoring you OK, but I dont even know what to say to you right now. You obviously
dont feel like you can confide in me, so whats the point anymore?
She turned away and started to focus intently on her bowl of pasta, probably hoping I would get the hint and
leave her alone. I sighed and started to rummage through my rucksack.

You know what Ol, I cant believe you can actually sit there and say things like that to me. If youre really going to
let one stupid secret ruin a whole lifetime of friendship then go ahead, be my guest. But before you shut me out
for good, I want to give you something
I took the scrapbook out of my bag. Id spent hours on it overnight and it was filled to the brim with photographs
and memories from all of my adventures with Olive over the years. I had picked out a really nice picture of us for
the front cover and surrounded it with big, colourful letters spelling out Scotty And Olive Forever.
I placed the book in front of her and she gaped at it in surprise.
What is this?
Just read it OK? I said. Then before she could answer, I walked back to my table on the other side of the room.
--The cafeteria was getting busy so it was difficult to make out Olives reaction clearly. I tried to peer through the
crowds of people to see her face. She was definitely reading the book, but I couldnt tell what she was making of
it. I had written her a long heartfelt apology on the last page, so it was pretty nerve-racking to actually show it to
her. If she didnt forgive me after this then there was nothing more I could do. I just had to hope it would be
enough to win her round.
Just as I caught a clear glimpse of her across the room, my view was suddenly blocked by someone standing
directly in front of me.
It was horsey, ponytailed Patricia, along with a large group of friends who were just as rude and haughty as she
was.
Lets sit here, she said loudly to the girls behind her. Well just have to move the crap first.
Before I had time to even take in what was happening, the group of girls were all on top of me and pushing me off
my chair.
Hey! I cried. What are you doing?
I fell to the floor with a painful thump and Patricia jumped straight into the seat where Id been sitting. She started
waving her hand in front of her face dramatically.
Yuck, it stinks around here! It smells just like stale fags!
I gathered up my bag and stood up with as much dignity as I could muster.
Youre pathetic, I said straight to Patricia. Have the bloody table, I dont care.
I made to leave, but one of her henchwomen threw out her leg to trip me over. I stumbled forward and Patricia
gave a cackling laugh.
I think youre the pathetic one here Scotty! You seem to be delusional about other peoples boyfriends. Just
because you really fancy Taylor, it doesnt make him gay you know!

I rolled my eyes. OK, think whatever you want. Bye Patricia.

She grabbed my arm, digging her nails spitefully into my flesh.
I broke up with him because of you and all the shit you stirred up. Youre so desperate, trying to make everyone
as fucked up as you are. Youre a freak of nature. Taylor is NOT the same as you.
I yanked my arm from her grip. If hes not the same as me, then why did you break up with him?
All of Patricias friends were looking around awkwardly at each other now. They must have known deep down
that their friend was in total denial.
Patricia gave a squeal of annoyance. Without warning, she grabbed a fistful of my hair and yanked it so hard I
thought she was about to tear my head off. I let out of a scream of pain.
You dont know anything about me and Taylor, she was screeching. We would still be together if it wasnt for
you and your lies!
I tried to force her hands off me, but she was clinging onto my scalp with all of her might. I was about to lose all
hope of actually keeping my hair when a loud voice cut across the chaos.
GET YOUR HANDS OFF HIM THIS INSTANT.
Patricia begrudgingly let go of her grip as Olive marched up to her.
Youre a disgrace Patricia, Olive growled. Im going to see to it that you have detention every day for the next
week!
You cant do that! Patricia exclaimed, standing up from her seat in defiance.
Olive pointed a finger furiously at her. I think youll find as HEAD GIRL, I can do what I like!
You dont even LIKE Scotty anymore, Patricia shouted. Hes lied to both of us. You should be on my side!
Actually, hes my best friend, Olive said, pulling the scrapbook close to her which I could now see she was
holding. And no one messes with my best friend.
She linked arms with me.
Come on Scotty, lets get out of here.
--When we were out of the cafeteria and in the safety of an empty corridor, Olive flung her arms around me.
Scotty, Im sorry! Im sorry I was angry with you. Your book was so beautiful, I could never lose you.
I held her back tightly.

No, Im sorry. From the bottom of my heart. I should have just told you about Taylor from the beginning. It was
killing me to keep it from you.
She gave me a big kiss on my cheek.
I love you, Scotty. I dont ever want to fight with you again.
I hugged her close to me, snuggling into her neck.
I love you too Olive. Friends forever, OK?
She squeezed me so hard I could barely breathe.
Yes! Friends FOREVER!

Chapter 46
Falling Apart
Oh my God, I had almost forgotten how good you look in a dress!
Olive was sitting on my bedroom floor, leafing through all the photographs in her new scrapbook. She hadnt put
it down since Id given it to her.
I laughed. Yeah, that was a pretty good party. My costume was the best though, obviously.
She carried on flicking through the pages and smiling.
Hey, maybe if you fail all your exams you should consider becoming a professional drag artist?
I let out a groan. I think thats becoming a distinct possibility. I can hardly concentrate on my work with everything
thats been going on.
Youll be fine, Olive retorted. You can ace exams blindfolded.
I wasnt too sure about that. I may have found exams easy, but even I had my limits. Emotional trauma being one
of them. I put my head in my hands.
Oh God Olive, Ive messed everything up so much. I dont think Vincent is ever going to forgive me.
Olive shuffled forward on the floor to sit next to me as I was leaning against my bed. I was so glad that we were
talking again. On our walk home, I had told her everything that had happened over the past few days, from my
talks with Vincent to my heart to heart with Taylor. It felt so good to let all the secrets free at last.
Im sure Vincent will come round, she said whilst patting my knee. You two are stronger than this. I think he just
has some serious trust issues. Thats why hes reacting the way he is.
I dont know, I murmured. What I did was horrible. Maybe I dont even deserve a boyfriend.
Olive nudged me in the ribs with her elbow. Hey, shut up! Dont say stupid things like that.
I rested my hand on my chin with a sigh. Its true though, isnt it? Ive lied to everyone I care about. I didnt even
know if you and I would still be friends anymore after this.
Well, we are, Olive said firmly. And Vincent will forgive you too. Besides, I was silly to take it so badly. I mean, I
can see why you wouldnt have wanted anyone to know about you and Taylor. We both know the kind of things
hes capable of.
I felt my heart twinge a little at the mention of Taylor. I had been on such an emotional rollercoaster with him and
it was difficult to explain it to people looking in from the outside.

Are you really sure you can forgive him? Olive continued. After everything hes done? I cant believe the way
he treated you when you were together. I just wish I could have done something at the time... Been there for you
in some way.
You were always there for me Ol, I replied. Even though you didnt know everything that was going on, I could
never have got through it without you.
She gave a small smile. "Im glad you feel that way. I just dont know how Taylor could ever be so cruel to you.
And how he could have put all those pictures up like that, is he crazy?!
I sat in thought for a few seconds, the fateful moment of when I saw the wall of photographs rushing straight back
to me.
You know, I think he is a little crazy. It's like that photograph was his only way of release... Hes been stuck in the
closet for so long and hes absolutely terrified about wrecking his reputation. I know its his Dad who made him
that way, hes been on Taylors case so much. Actually, Im pretty sure the lovely Mr. Raven Senior has been
roughing up his precious son over all this.
In my mind, I could still see the bruises lining Taylors wrist. It made me shudder to think about it.
Olive gave my leg another little pat. Youre a kind soul Scotty. Most people wouldnt care so much about
someone who treated them so badly.
Yeah well I mumbled. I just feel sorry for him. I dont think hes a bad person deep down, he's just made
some stupid mistakes. And I know first-hand about making stupid mistakes.
I let my words ring out across the room. Suddenly all I could think about was Vincent. He was everywhere in my
bedroom, from the CDs scattered across my desk to the shirt in my wardrobe with the tomato sauce stain that I
still couldnt quite get out. Not that I minded much because it reminded me of the moment when Vincent had first
told me he loved me.
What had happened to all that love now? Would I ever be able to get it back?
Come on then, Olive said finally, breaking the silence. Tell me again everything Vincent has said to you since
he found out. I want EVERY conversation, WORD FOR WORD. Im great at psycho-analysing people, Im sure I
can figure out what hes feeling right now.
Olive, just because you watch a lot of chick flicks, it doesnt mean you know how to psycho-analyse people.
She put her hands on her hips huffily. Oh, so you dont want to hear my advice then? Because reading between
the lines, I think Vincent is dying to take you back.
I turned to face her, ready to listen.
OK, go on...
--When I got to college the next morning, I saw him.

He was sitting by his favourite tree in the courtyard, with Alexis next to him. They were both playing guitars and
scribbling ideas down in their music notebooks.
Feeling emboldened by my talk with Olive the previous night, I didnt think twice about walking over to them. I
strode straight toward the tree and stood directly in Vincent's line of vision.
Hi Vincent, hows it going?
His eyes widened in slight surprise as I approached him with confidence. I gave Alexis a small wave too and she
waved back hesitantly.
Err, you alright Scotty? she asked, glancing awkwardly between me and Vincent.
Yeah, Im good thank you, I replied, as though everything was completely normal between the three of us.
Hows your practising going?
Vincent pulled an annoyed expression as he lazily picked at his guitar.
Scotty, didnt you hear me yesterday? I told you I needed some space. Can you please just respect that?
He was looking down at his guitar, probably hoping I would get the hint and go away. Instead, I folded my arms
defiantly.
Actually, I think Ive given you more than enough space. Now its time you started talking to me.
Alexiss jaw dropped open. Then she looked down intently at her notebook, pretending she wasnt there. Vincent
put his guitar down grumpily and stood up to face me head on. He pulled me to the side of the tree, his voice a
low whisper.
This isnt the time or the place Scotty
Well, what is the time and the place? I cried, throwing my arms up in exasperation. How long exactly am I
supposed to hang around waiting for you to actually speak to me?
Vincent gripped my arm tightly, pulling me closer to him. His face was inches from mine, causing my heart to start
palpitating like mad.
I cant do this. Not now. The showcase is next week and its the most important night of my life. I cant let
anything break my focus...
I wanted so badly to grab his face and pull him into me.
I want to be there, I whispered back. I want to support you.
Vincent looked pained, but he kept his hand gripped around my arm.
For God sake Scotty, I cant deal with all this right now.

Whats there to deal with? I asked, feeling suddenly irritated. I love you. And you love me too. So whats the
problem?
He finally let go of my arm.
You know what the problem is. Maybe I do still love you but how can I trust you now?
I dont know, Vincent, I retorted sharply. If thats how you feel then why dont you just be a man and break up
with me instead of stringing me along?
Vincent let out a breath as though I had physically hit him. I felt my own hands shaking at the sentence that had
just slipped out of my own mouth. The thought of not being with Vincent was more than I could bear, but I couldnt
keep living in limbo like this. It was becoming unbearable.
I watched as Vincents eyes faintly glazed over with tears. I dont want to break up with you.
I exhaled shakily. You dont want to break up with me, but you dont want to be with me. So where does that
leave us then?
I dont know, Vincent replied quietly.
We stared at each other, both of us back to square one. I looked around the rest of the courtyard to see if anyone
was listening in to our conversation, but luckily the area seemed to be fairly empty. Alexis was the only one who
could hear and she was politely pretending to be engrossed in writing her lyric ideas.
Vincent sighed, bringing a hand up to his forehead.
Scotty, please, can we just wait until this gigs over? Im under so much pressure right now. My whole future after
college could depend on this showcase and I cant afford to fall apart right now.
I hated the way he was speaking to me. I hated the way he was talking about his future as though there was a
possibility I might not be in it. I hated the fact he wasnt calling me Specs anymore. I hated the entire
conversation.
Vincent lowered his hand and I held his gaze.
Have you ever thought maybe Im the one whos falling apart here? I whispered.
It was at that moment, as our eyes were locked and our mouths were trembling with unsaid things, that we heard
the first rumblings of a commotion coming from the student carpark.
Shouting. Screaming.
I turned my head around to the direction of the noises.
Whats going on over there?

Vincent looked intently toward the noises as well. Then Alexis stood up from underneath the tree and joined us. It
was difficult to make out what our schoolmates were saying from so far away, but I could catch snippets of
conversation drifting over to us.
Whats wrong with him?! He looks deranged!
I think hes drunk Look how red his eyes are!
Someone call a teacher!
How did he get onto school property like this?
I squinted behind my glasses, trying to make out what was happening. I could see a blurry figure running toward
us.
As he got closer, I suddenly realised it was Taylor.
What are you doing here? Vincent grunted as he saw him. Havent you caused enough fucking trouble for us?
Taylor was hunched over slightly, trying to get his breath back. He had obviously had to run like a madman to get
to us so quickly.
You dont understand he gasped between breaths. Scotty, you you have to get out of here...
What are you talking about? I asked in confusion. Whats happening over in the carpark? I thought you were
suspended, why are you even here?
Before Taylor could answer, he was cut off by an aggressive shout.
WHERE IS HE? WHERES THAT FUCKING LITTLE POOF?!
Someone was stumbling over to us. Not another classmate, but a grown man. His eyes were bloodshot and he
stank of alcohol. The stench was growing stronger with every step he took.
For some reason, I recognised him. I knew we had met before somehow, but I just couldnt place from where.
He spotted me through his bleary vision and lurched forward in a furious rage.
It was then that everything clicked into place and I remembered who he was.
It was Taylors Dad, Alan Raven.
And his hands were suddenly closing around my throat.

Chapter 47
Mr. Ravens Rage
DO YOU REALISE WHAT YOUVE DONE?! YOUVE RUINED MY SONS WHOLE FUTURE!
Alan Raven was shouting at the top of his lungs as his hands gripped around my neck. I could feel all the air from
my body slowly escaping as the world around me turned hazy.
I TOLD HIM TO STAY AWAY FROM YOU! BUT YOU COULDNT LEAVE HIM ALONE COULD YOU? AND NOW
YOUVE MADE HIM A FUCKING FREAK, JUST LIKE YOU!
His breath was clouding around my face like toxic poison. I tried to pull myself out of his stranglehold, but he was
so much stronger than me.
Behind him, I could hear shouts of alarm.
Dad, STOP IT! Taylor yelled. Let go of him!
Alexis was yelling too. What the fuck is wrong with him?! Someone, please help!
Everything was happening so fast that it was hard to take in. One minute I had been standing there having a
heart breaking discussion with Vincent, the next I was being violently attacked by a fully grown man. I couldnt
quite process what was going on and I could feel myself slipping to the edge of consciousness as Mr. Ravens
chokehold got tighter and tighter.
Just when I was about to black out, someone pushed Alan forward causing him to lose his grip on me.
LEAVE HIM ALONE!
Although I was feeling faint and gasping for air, I could still make out Vincents outline as he forcefully shoved
Alan away from me and onto the ground.
Alan was so inebriated that as soon as he hit the floor, it was a massive struggle for him to get back up. Vincent
knelt down beside him, pressing the heel of his hand into the older mans chest to keep him pinned down.
Youre a fucking disgrace, Vincent hissed into his ear. If you so much as touch a single hair on Scottys head
ever again I swear to God, you will regret it.
I had never seen Vincent look so enraged before, he was positively shaking with anger.
As the scene played out before my eyes, Alexis ran up to me and put a hand on my back. Scotty, are you OK?
I nodded, feeling the colour returning to my face. Everything was coming more into focus now. I could clearly see
Vincent pinning down Alan as Taylor watched in horror from the sidelines.
Alan caught his sons eye and started bellowing over to him.
So youre just going to stand by and watch your old man getting attacked are you?

Taylor didnt reply. He looked too terrified to even move an inch. Alan carried on shouting at him.
Youre pathetic, you know that? Youve never had the guts to really go for what you want. All those hours of
training and building you up What was the point? Youve never had that real killer instinct, not like I had. Youre
weak.
Alan was rambling and slurring his words, but his intentions were clear. He wanted to hurt his son. And judging by
the tears in Taylors eyes, it seemed to be working.
Shut UP Dad! Vincents right, you ARE a disgrace! Maybe I never wanted to be your stupid tennis prodigy. That
doesnt make me any less of a man like you seem to think it does.
Oh, whatever, Alan spat out. Youre a useless fucking poof. Youre no son of mine.
His eyes seemed to roll back in his head and then he collapsed onto the ground in a drunken stupor.
Vincent shook his head in disgust and released his grip on Alans chest. Then he jumped up and hurried over to
where I was standing with Alexis. He ran his hand across my face and neck with a feather-light touch.
Scotty, are you OK?
Y...Yeah, Im fine, I stuttered, feeling totally taken aback by the warmth of Vincents caress across my skin. In an
instant, I forgot about the aching in my lungs and the bruises around my neck. There was love in Vincents
fingertips and that was more than enough to heal me.
He wrapped his arms around me, pulling me close to him.
God Specs, that scared the fuck out of me
I shivered in pleasure at the sound of my nickname escaping Vincents lips. His embrace was so tight around me,
it was as though he never wanted to let me go again. I hugged him back with all my strength.
After what felt like an eternity, we parted. However, Vincent still had a tight grip of my hand, rubbing it protectively.
He looked behind him to Alan, who was still lying passed out on the floor.
What the hell was that all about?
Taylor sauntered over to us with his hands in his pockets. He had one eye on his unconscious father and the
other on mine and Vincents embrace. He didnt look too happy about either sight.
Hes been drinking all night since he found out I was suspended from nationals And this morning he heard all
the rumours about me and Scotty and went fucking mental. He actually drove here and I followed him. I dont
know how he didnt end up killing someone.
Im calling the police! Alexis announced from behind us. This is crazy!
There was a crowd starting to form across the way from us, as students realised the morning drama had now
moved into the courtyard. Taylor looked towards the masses like a deer in the headlights. Then he glanced down
at Alan, who was beginning to stir as he lay on the ground like a beached whale.

Do we really need to call the police? Ill drive him home and and Ill talk to him sort it out
To my great surprise, Vincent approached Taylor and put a hand on his shoulder.
Mate, its OK... My Dad is shit too. Its not your fault. But you need to let the police handle this. Its too much for
you to deal with alone.
Taylor looked suspiciously at Vincents hand, but didnt shake it off.
I just feel like such a traitor. Hes still my Dad.
Regardless of how Taylor was feeling, it was too late for him to do anything more. Alexis had her phone out and
was already reporting Alans behaviour.
Perhaps it was the sound of her talking to the police, but as she spoke, Alan suddenly regained consciousness.
He lifted his head and groaned, taking in the sight of everyone gathered around him.
Then his eyes settled on Vincent.
Oi YOU You attacked me! Come here you little bastard!
He scrabbled his way up from the ground, gaining speed with each clumsy movement. Although he was a
drunken mess, he was still a lean sportsman with a lot of strength. Before anyone had any time to react, he was
charging toward Vincent and grappling him into a headlock.
The crowd of students at the side of the courtyard all gasped and began screaming for help. Alexis was
screaming the loudest of all.
WHAT ARE YOU DOING?! STOP! GET OFF HIM! SOMEONE STOP HIM!
Vincent was trying his best to overpower Alan and his violent manhandling, but the older man was far too strong
for him. I stood there frozen to the spot, feeling totally helpless.
Taylor pulled at his fathers arm, trying to stop the attack.
Dad, what the hell are you doing?! Leave him alone!
Alan yanked his arm free with a grunt. Then he manoeuvred Vincent into the same chokehold that hed used on
me earlier. Vincent was shouting and gasping for breath, trying to tear Alans hands away, but it was all in vain.
What happened next was as much of a surprise to me as it was to everyone else. The moment Alans hands
gripped around Vincent, something inside me snapped. Without thinking, I ran toward the struggle and with my
whole strength, I punched Alan right in the face.
There was a loud murmur of shock from everyone around as Alan staggered backward, releasing Vincent in the
process. He was holding his nose which was bleeding from the impact.
You little PRICK! Who do you think you are?!

His voice was fearsome, but I didnt feel afraid. I remained standing directly opposite to him, speaking right to his
face.
Ill tell you who I am Mr. Raven Im someone whos sick of bullies like you throwing your weight around all the
time. Ive been scared of people like you my whole life and Im done with it!
For a second, Alan didnt have any response. He stood glaring at me with blood trickling down his face. He
looked like a big angry bull, ready to charge. I held firm, staring him straight in the eye. Daring him to make the
next move.
I guess I had it coming when his heavy, drunken limbs came firing at me. He was trying to swing a punch back at
me, but in his intoxicated state the action turned into more of an aggressive shove. Regardless of his intentions, I
ended up falling to the ground in a heap. I landed awkwardly on my ankle and pain seared through me like
molten lava. I screamed in agony.
SCOTTY, Vincent cried, sounding absolutely panicked. He pushed roughly past Alan and crouched down next
to me. Whats happened? Where does it hurt?
My ankle, I replied through gritted teeth. I attempted to stand, but it was unbearable. I yelped out in pain,
causing Vincent to rub my shoulders comfortingly.
Scotty, dont stand up Just stay there.
He was trying to calm me down, but he was in a total state himself. I could feel his hands shaking as they rested
gently against my body.
Alan was towering over us, his face recoiling in disgust.
Oh, dont tell me this ones fucking queer as well?! Whats wrong with the lot of you?
He was swaying from side to side, letting his bloody nose drip down his pristine white shirt.
Whats wrong with YOU? I shouted out boldly. Look at you! We have nothing to be ashamed of, but you Just
LOOK at yourself!
I was determined not to be Alans victim. Although I couldnt stand, I could still defend myself with my words. He
looked angry, but he made no move to hit me again.
You should be proud of your son, not making his life hell, I continued. It doesnt matter how much you lash out
at people, you cant always get what you want. Stop being so childish! Youre a grown man for Gods sake!
Alan stood there stunned. In fact, everyone was standing in stunned silence, from the crowd on the outskirts of
the courtyard to Taylor and Alexis, who were now right behind me and Vincent, backing us up with their presence.
It was at that moment that Mrs. Patricks made her way through the crowds, blustering toward us all with an
ashen expression.
Everyone stand back! Ive just heard about whats going on... The police are on their way.

Behind her were a group of strong, male teachers who all crowded around Alan, stopping him from hurting
anyone else. Alan began shouting and carrying on.
HOW DARE YOU TREAT ME LIKE THIS! IM THE MAIN FUNDER FOR THIS SCHOOL. IT WOULDNT EVEN
EXIST IF IT WASNT FOR ME!
We have plenty of other ways to raise funds, a masculine P.E. teacher barked as he held Alans arms behind his
back. We dont need your dirty money.
The confrontation between the teacher and Alan carried on heatedly. Mrs. Patricks was trying to control the
crowd, as well as look out for the police who were on the way. All around was noise and chaos, and I just wanted
to collapse.
But Vincent was there. Like a cool, calming oasis in a harsh and blinding desert.
He pressed his forehead to mine and suddenly the rest of the world disappeared. The noise, the pain, the
craziness.
It all drifted away until the only thing I could feel was love.

Chapter 48
Mixed Messages
The school nurse pressed a bag of ice onto my swollen ankle as I sat on the bed in the welfare room.
Vincent was standing brooding in the corner by the window. It was a little bit like dj vu, only the last time Id
been here I certainly hadnt been accompanied by Taylor Raven. He was standing, equally brooding, in the
opposite corner to Vincent. The two of them had argued over who would help me up and into the building, before
each taking one of my arms and carrying me in together.
I think its just a nasty sprain, the nurse said after inspecting my injury. Ill bandage it up for you, but luckily it
doesnt seem to be broken.
I breathed a sigh of relief. I had been sure that Id done more than sprain myself when I had hit the ground earlier,
but the whole situation had been so intense that all my senses were probably heightened. It still bloody hurt
though.
Suddenly, the door to the room came flying open and Olive rushed in like a hurricane.
OH MY GOD SCOTTY! ARE YOU OK?!
She flung herself at me, wrapping her arms forcefully around my shoulders.
I cant believe what just happened! I was already in class and I just wish Id been there!
As she was hugging me, she realised Taylor was also in the room. She leapt up from the bed and stormed over
to him.
What the hell are you doing here? Do you realise what your father has done?! He could have killed Scotty!
I put my hand up into a stop sign. Olive, its OK. Taylor was trying to help me. Its not his fault.
Taylor looked incredibly awkward, like he was the one thing in the room who didnt quite fit. He kept his eyes on
the floor as he spoke.
I tried to stop him, OK? Its not like I wanted him to hurt Scotty or Vincent.
At the mention of his own name, Vincent spoke up from the corner of the room.
Taylor, its fine. Youre not responsible for your Dads actions. God, I know that better than anyone.
He was staring out of the window, obviously not wanting to look Taylor directly in the eye. This was the first time
that the two of them had been anywhere near each other without wanting to kill one another. It was pretty weird
and the tense rivalry between them was utterly tangible.
Still, at least they were in the same room. You know, without killing each other and all. It wasnt much, but it was a
start.

A few seconds after Vincent had spoken, the welfare door clicked open and a blonde history teacher I vaguely
recognised popped her head around the doorframe.
Hey guys, hows it all going in here?
She was obviously one of the unfortunate staff members who had been roped into facilitating the ongoing drama.
We all looked over to her with half-hearted smiles. It was hard to remain upbeat when you had just been
strangled within an inch of your life.
So, not to worry you all or anything, but Ive got the police here Taylor, your Dad has been taken in for
questioning. Do you want to see him?
No, I fucking dont, Taylor growled under his breath. The nurse tutted at him for his swearing.
OK, thats understandable, the blonde teacher replied in a far too cheery manner. But were going to need
witness statements from all of you when youre ready. Theyre talking to Alexis Mae at the moment, but Ill come
by and let you know when theyre done.
We all nodded solemnly and the teacher gave us a jolly thumbs up before leaving the room.
Jesus Christ Vincent muttered exasperatedly as he continued staring out the window.
I really wanted to know what he was thinking. He had been so loving to me when he thought I was in danger, and
now it was like he was shutting down again. Even as he had helped carry me into welfare, hed been holding me
tightly with so much tenderness. But as soon as everything calmed down, it was like he had taken a massive step
backwards. I didnt know if it was Taylors presence or just the pure shock of everything, but he hadnt met my
gaze once since we had entered the room.
OK guys, the nurse announced with a clap of her hands. I think youd better start moving out, you cant all stay
in here.
Olive turned to me and grabbed my hands. Scotty, will you be OK if I go back to class? Youre alright arent
you?
Yeah, Im fine, I replied honestly, squeezing her fingers. Ill text you once Im done with the police, alright?
Yes, you do that! Ill come and meet you straight away!
She reluctantly left the room, blowing me a kiss as she went. Then Taylor let out a huffing noise.
Look, Im off too. Youre alright and everything, right?
I gave a little nod. Honestly, Im OK. I paused. Are you OK Taylor?
Vincent looked around from the window as I addressed his enemy. His face was unreadable and it made me feel
nervous.
Im fine, Taylor replied in a mumble. Im not even supposed to be at college right now anyway. Im just going to
get this statement done and get the hell out of here.

With that, he barged his way past the nurse (who was getting increasingly impatient at the amount of rudeness
being displayed in her office) and slammed out of the room. I didnt have the chance to ask him where he was
going to go after hed talked to police or whether he had any intention of seeing his Dad. It looked like that was
his problem now, and its not like I didnt have enough trouble of my own to deal with.
Right, thank God it's a bit calmer in here, the nurse said once Taylor had gone. Ill just go and get some
bandages for your ankle Scotty. There was a separate room filled with medical equipment behind a partition and
she headed in its direction.
As she disappeared into the supply room, I was finally alone with Vincent. He was still standing by the window,
but now he was looking over to me.
So I guess I can see why that Taylor kid is so fucked up now, he said, running a fidgety hand through his dark
hair. My neck still kills from his Dad choking me, so I can only imagine how youre feeling.
I placed a hand lightly to my own neck, running it across the massive bruise I could feel forming at my throat.
Yeah, it bloody hurts.
You packed a mean punch though, Specs, Vincent said with the hint of a smile. I didnt know you had it in you.
I flexed my hand, which was still aching from the impact of hitting Alan. Oh God, Ive never punched anyone in
my life! I didnt even realise I knew HOW to punch someone. But when I saw him grab you, I just freaked out.
Vincent took a few steps toward me and my heart began to race. Maybe he wasnt shutting me out after all.
Maybe this was going to be a whole new beginning for us.
He reached out and touched my face.
I was so scared today Scotty.
I put my hand on top of his. We looked at one another. I was certain that he was about to lean down and kiss me,
so I lifted my head with my lips parted. Every nerve ending in my body was tingling with desperation. I just
wanted to feel Vincents skin brushing against mine, his lips pressing into me.
He moved toward my mouth then at the last second, he planted a gentle kiss on my cheek instead.
Im going to go, he whispered into my ear. Im sorry. Ill talk to you later.
In an instant, he was gone.
I sat in the empty room, feeling lost and confused, holding my cheek in a pathetic attempt to hold some of
Vincents warmth in me.
--The rest of the day was a blur. I spoke to the police and wrote down a witness statement. I was picked up by my
Mum, who burst into tears as soon as she saw the bruises around my neck. I talked over everything with Olive
until every last detail of the day was truly exhausted.

And then I closed my eyes, blocked out the world and collapsed into the heaviest sleep of my life.
--I didnt go to college the following day. I had no intention of going in for the rest of the week. Olive had offered to
bring round all my work for me so I could catch up from home. I just wanted to hide in my room until the Easter
holidays started. And even then, I probably wouldnt ever come out.
It was getting late in the afternoon when my Mum poked her head around my bedroom door.
Scotty, theres someone here to see you.
I was lying on my bed, reading a comic book with my bandaged foot spread out on a pillow.
You dont have to ask my permission, Mum. Just send Olly up.
Mums face looked twitchy, like a curious kitten.
Its not Olive darling its a young man. A rather handsome young man actually.
I dropped the comic book in shock, my face turning white.
WWhat?!
My mother had a delighted glint in her eye. Hes very polite and awfully tall. And goodness me, his muscles
are rather defined arent they?
MUM!
Ill tell him to come up But dont forget that you have been through a horrible ordeal young man, so I want no
funny business up here. ILL BE LISTENING FROM DOWNSTAIRS. WE HAVE PAPER THIN WALLS.
MUUUUUUUUM!
She bustled out of the room leaving me reeling with embarrassment. Then a few seconds later, Vincent appeared
in my doorway.
Hey Specs. How you feeling?
The whole situation was utterly bizarre. Vincent appearing in my bedroom was about as likely as a fish sprouting
legs and walking out of the water. And yet, here he was.
What are you doing here? I mumbled shyly. I didnt think you knew where I lived.
Vincent laughed. Well, Ive dropped you home enough times. He looked around at my neat, white room with all
the stacked piles of geeky memorabilia in every corner. It looks just how I imagined it would in here.
I suddenly felt very self-conscious. I looked around for any trace of mess. I hadnt left my pants lying around on
the floor or anything had I?!

Vincent caught me looking around nervously and ruffled my hair affectionately. Then he pulled up the chair at my
desk and sat beside me.
So your Mums nice.
I let out a groan. Shes so embarrassing!
Vincent smirked. I wouldnt mind so much if she was my Mum.
There was a small pause. Our hands were brushing ever so lightly together at the edge of the bed, but I was too
scared to reach out for Vincent. I didnt know what was going through his mind at all. He was sending me so
many mixed messages.
Scotty, Im sorry I took off yesterday, he finally said. All this has just been so hard for me to process.
I said nothing. I didnt really know what I could say even if I tried.
Vincent continued speaking, his fingers still resting on the tips of mine, but never quite moving any closer.
One minute were in an argument then I thought I might lose you. Its like emotional whiplash or something.
Tell me about it, I muttered. This hasnt exactly been easy for me either, Vincent.
I know, Vincent replied gently. And you know how much I care about you. Fuck, I couldnt bear the thought of
anything happening to you.
So whats the problem? I suddenly blurted out. You still love me and you know how much I love you. Lets
just start again.
In a bold move, I took hold of his hand tightly. He didnt pull away, but his touch had no returning grip. It felt limp
and lifeless.
I dont know if its that easy, he sighed. I mean all of this, its just so draining and damaged Ill always care
about you Scotty, but maybe we should just leave things where they are before one of us gets too hurt again. You
know, no hard feelings or anything.
I felt my heart drop to the pit of my stomach.
No hard feelings?! I squeaked in horror. Can you listen to yourself? This doesnt even sound like you! This is
ME youre talking to Vincent. Im not just anyone and this isnt just some silly crush going nowhere.
His face was cold and expressionless. Like he was cutting off his real feelings and just reading some ridiculous
pre-prepared script.
Come on Scotty, Im supposed to be going off to uni this summer I know weve talked about the future, but do
you really think we have one together? I mean honestly?
We'll work it out, I replied quietly. You said you were going to take a gap year. I want to spend the rest of my life
with you

Dont say that, Vincent said, pulling his hand away from mine. You dont really believe that do you? Stop
making it harder than it needs to be. Were just teenagers, weve got our whole lives ahead of us. The sooner we
rationalise this for what it is, the easier it will be to let go of it.
He was trying to sound totally objective and detached, but the slight quiver in his voice was giving his true
emotions away. Feeling undeterred, I grabbed his arm, wrapping my fingers around his bicep like I was never
letting go.
Vincent, you dont mean what youre saying. I know your guards up and youre just trying to protect yourself
and thats OK, I know I made a stupid mistake. But Im not the same as your Mum and Dad. Im never going to
abandon you. Ill never do anything to hurt you ever again.
I could see his eyes tearing up, but he blinked until his emotional reaction was covered up.
I know you want to believe that Scotty but come on, this is real life. Not some stupid fairy tale. I think I forgot
that for a while and I honestly love that you made me feel that way, but lets just be grown up about this. Cut
our losses. Like I said, no hard feelings.
My mouth was gaping open in pure shock. I couldnt believe the things Vincent was saying. This couldnt be
happening, it just couldnt. I refused to believe this was how he really felt.
So you dont think anything between us was real? I questioned. All the fun weve had, all the times weve been
there for each other all that love for each other, you dont think that any of it was real?
I didnt say that, Vincent muttered, bringing his hands to his temples in irritation. Im just saying that life isnt all
flowers and fucking bunnies. Look, youll always be so special to me, you know you will but I think its time for
us to both move on while we have some good memories left to look back on.
My mind was reeling. It was as though someone had whipped the floor right out from underneath me.
This is all about Taylor isnt it? I said resignedly. You still cant forgive me.
Its not Taylor, Vincent answered bluntly. Its just everything.
I wanted to get up off my bed, but my foot was hurting too much. Instead, I pushed myself upward to try and
make myself more equal to Vincent.
Youre scared, so youre giving up on us. Thats all there is to it. Dont be such a coward!
Vincent stood up from the chair.
Im not! But I have so much going on right now, I cant keep going over this with you. The gigs in less than a
week and I have to focus on that, not all this drama.
What drama, Vincent? The only one making problems is you! I love you!
It was at that moment that my Mum decided to knock on the door, pushing it slightly ajar as she looked in.
Boys, are you OK up here? Do you want anything? A drink?

Vincent walked to the doorway.

No thanks Mrs. Williams, I was actually just leaving. It was lovely to meet you.
He muttered a goodbye to me and hurried past my bewildered Mum.
Then I heard his footsteps receding down the staircase and the slam of the door as he left the house.

Chapter 49
Decisions And Dreams
The week dragged along until finally it was the Easter holidays.
I didnt hear a word from Vincent and I decided that I wasnt going to make the next move. If he was too afraid to
fight for us, then so be it. I couldnt keep being the only one trying to make things work. At least thats what I kept
telling myself. It was taking every ounce of willpower not to pick up the phone and call him at any given
opportunity.
To distract myself, I became buried in the mountain of homework that Olive had brought round for me. I put all of
my focus into my upcoming exams and coursework, leaving no extra room in my brain for Vincent.
I also had the lovely task of dealing with the police and writing more statements against Alan Raven and his
drunken attack. I was being urged by both the policewoman in charge of the case and my Mum to press further
charges and take him to court, but in the end I couldnt go through with it. He was Taylors Dad at the end of the
day and I couldnt be responsible for putting him in jail. Besides, the school was already pressing charges against
him for being drunk and disorderly on their property. He would probably end up with a massive fine and
community service or something.
I guess it wasnt much in the way of punishment, but I didnt regret my decision. The last thing I wanted to do was
stand up in court and start raking over everything all over again. I just wanted to try and move on from everything.
But moving on was a very difficult thing to do. I felt as though I was floating in some strange sort of limbo and I
had no idea how to get out of it.
--Olives Gameguy let out a succession of bleeps as her Munchy Monster defeated mine in virtual battle.
Hey, your Rattymunch is three levels higher than mine, she said, turning to me. Youre not even trying are
you?
I sighed and switched off my console. Sorry Ol, I guess my hearts not in the game today.
I was sitting on my bed whilst she was sprawled out on the floor. She was lying on her stomach and kicking her
long legs up and down restlessly.
Scotty, its been a whole week. Why dont you just talk to him?
We both knew exactly who him was.
I have talked to him! I told you what happened. He doesnt want to make it work anymore. So I guess thats the
end of it.
God, you boys are both so stubborn! Olive huffed. Hes just scared Scotty. But he obviously still wants to be
with you. Just sort it out! Go crashing into his flat and sweep him up off his feet and dont take no for an answer!

Yeah, because that doesnt sound stalker-like at all

You know what I mean!
I slid off the bed to sit next to Olive on the floor. Luckily my foot was almost fully healed, so I could start putting
pressure on it again and move around without pain.
Why doesnt he want to fight for me Ol? I asked my best friend in a small voice. I really thought he would have
called or messaged me in some way. I thought I actually meant something to him.
Olive rubbed my arm comfortingly. He still might contact you. You knew he was a complicated character Scotty,
just give it a bit more time.
Im sick of giving him time! I exclaimed in annoyance. How much time does he bloody well need? He should be
realising he cant live without me by now and I dont know, he should be doing something about it!
Maybe hes thinking the same thing, Olive replied. I told you you need to storm into his place and declare
your undying love for him!
Well, thats certainly not going to be happening. Im not chasing him anymore.
I folded my arms and slumped against the edge of my bed.
I had the feeling that I would be waiting indefinitely. Vincent was obviously not intending on making the next
move.
Perhaps it really was the end of everything. If I sat and thought about that notion for too long, I knew I would
become an emotional wreck. I had to keep distracting myself.
Come on, lets play another Munchy Monster battle. Ill put up more of a fight this time.
--About an hour later, my phone pinged with an email. I instantly opened my messages as soon as the alert
sounded.
It was from Alexis, of all people. I read it aloud to Olive.
Hey Scotty, hows it going?
Has Vincent spoken to you at all yet? Hes not really telling me whats happened between you two, but Ive told
him hes being a total DICK and that he needs to sort it out.
Anyway, our band showcase is on Thursday Are you coming? I really think you should.
Practice is going really well, its gonna be one hell of a show. And hopefully we might end up with the prospect of
a record deal at the end of it the judges are all pretty high profile!
Its a really big night for me and Vincent. You should be there. Even if he is being a dick.

See you then?

Al x
I finished reading the message and looked at Olive for her reaction. Her blue eyes were glinting behind her
glasses.
Scotty, this is your big chance! You have to be there!
My big chance for what exactly? I asked incredulously.
To get Vincent back of course! she exclaimed. You have to go see him play!
I logged out of my email account and flung my phone onto my desk. He doesnt even want me there. Alexis is
just meddling.
Shes not meddling, shes trying to help you, Olive answered. Shes the one spending the most time with
Vincent right now, so she must realise how much he needs you.
I had to admit, it was nice to know that Alexis was finally being supportive after all this time. But it still wasnt
enough.
If he needs me so much then he should just ask me himself.
Olive paused in thought for a second.
Maybe he just doesnt know how, she finally said.
I flopped onto my bed, smothering my face into my pillow so I could let out a frustrated scream. I really had no
idea what to do for the best. Of course I wanted to be at Vincents gig. I wanted to see him play and be there to
support him more than anything. But I refused to keep chasing him if he didnt want me to. What if I went along
and he just ignored me? I couldnt take any more rejection.
Olive jumped onto the bed next to me and rolled me over.
Scotty, stop being such a baby! Ill go with you.
She shoved me onto my side so that I was facing her.
I dont know, I mumbled sulkily. I just dont think its a good idea.
Why not? Olive asked. Whats the worst that could happen?
I didnt answer her, but I still had the last scene between Vincent and I looping around endlessly in my head. The
way he had tried to trivialise our love so casually. It hurt like hell. I had visions of arriving at his gig and him
treating me like any other friend. That was definitely the worst thing that could happen.
There was no way I was going.

--After Olive went home, I decided to send a reply to Alexis.

Hi Alexis,
Thanks for messaging me, I appreciate it.
I really hope your gig goes well, but I dont think I can go. Its too hard at the moment.
Im sorry. Have a great time, youll be amazing.
Scotty x
I signed off with a kiss, as she had been doing for me. A small gesture of understanding and friendliness between
us at long last. It was almost funny that she was the one being kind to me now instead of Vincent. Like role
reversal.
It had barely been five minutes when her reply bleeped through.
FOR FUCK SAKE SCOTTY!!!
JUST BE THERE.
I was now starting to feel slightly annoyed at her bossy tone. Not that it was unexpected, she was almost always
bossy towards just about everyone, even the people she liked But even so, this was one situation where she
had no right to tell me what to do. I sent her an irritated reply back.
Alexis, you cant force me to go.
I think things are over between me and Vincent. It wouldnt feel right for me to be there.
Like I said, Im sorry. Let me know how it goes.
I re-read the message before I sent it. I think things are over between me and Vincent. That was the first time I
had actually expressed that sentiment in words and seeing them in black and white on the screen stung me to
the core. The thought of a world without Vincent was far too difficult to even comprehend. I had fallen so in love
with him over the past few months. How had it all gone so wrong?
My phone pinged again.
It aint over til its over Scotty.
Come on. Im inviting everyone. Ill even invite that stupid Taylor kid (I feel sort of sorry for him).
We need you there.
Vincent needs you there.

I know he doesnt always show it, but thats just the way he fucking is, OK?!
If you really care about him then youll be there. Dont let me down you speccy little wanker.
Al x
After I read the email, I switched off my phone and slammed it onto the desk beside me.
Who was Alexis to tell me what I should or shouldnt do? And why did I have to prove anything to Vincent? He
was the one making everything so difficult, not me.
I decided not to answer the email. I didnt have to keep explaining myself to Alexis.
If my presence was so important, then Vincent could ask me to the gig himself. I knew he had issues that made
him act coldly at times, but I couldnt keep kidding myself that there was still some kind of chance to save our
relationship. Hed made it pretty clear that he wanted to end things and if I went to the gig I was only prolonging
the agony.
I turned off the light and rolled into the soft comfort of my bed. I had so much going round in my head that it was
impossible to sleep, but it felt strangely good to be surrounded in darkness where no one could find me.
If only I could have stayed there in the darkness forever.
--It was late at night and I was standing in the courtyard at college. Vincent was sitting under his favourite tree,
gently strumming his guitar. He looked so beautiful with his face bathed in moonlight. The melody he was playing
was melancholy and completely haunting.
I love this song, I said as I walked over to him.
He didnt answer me. He kept playing as though I hadnt even spoken to him.
Hey, Vincent! I said I love this song.
He didnt even look up at me. The melody continued swirling around me, almost taunting me.
Vincent, are you even listening to me?!
Suddenly my phone rang urgently. I grabbed it out of my pocket in a panic. Hello?
WHY ARENT YOU AT THE GIG YOU SPECCY TWAT?!
It was Alexis and she was screeching at me.
But the gig isnt until Thursday! I exclaimed.
Without a warning, Olive jumped out from behind the tree. She was in the dress she had been wearing at the
Battle Of The Bands night and holding a microphone.

And next up tonight she announced loudly, its Scotty Williams and The Night Birds!
She gave me a push and I found myself stumbling onstage, a spotlight shining brightly in my face. I held my hand
up to my eyes to try and stop the burning glare.
I dont know any of the songs! I shouted in a panic. Im not a musician!
The audience started booing relentlessly. I scanned my eyes across the front row and I could see Taylor Raven
and his Dad both heckling me. Patricia and her friends were next to them, all talking loudly and spitefully about
me.
I turned toward Vincent, who was next to me onstage.
I cant do this, I hissed over to him. Im not supposed to be here!
He had his head down as his fingers moved effortlessly across his electric guitar. I kept calling out to him, but
nothing was getting through.
Then, Taylor stood up in the front row and shouted out to me.
Come on Specs, you can do it!
Vincents head snapped up and he yelled straight over to Taylor.
OI! Dont call him Specs! Thats MY name for him Im the only one allowed to use it!
I was taken aback by his sudden response. It made me want to sing out loud. I grabbed the microphone in front
of me, ready to join in with the band that was playing behind us.
But as I opened my mouth, I realised that I was completely naked. Everyone in the crowd was laughing at me. I
had no idea where my clothes had gone and there was nowhere to hide.
Help me, I cried out to Vincent. What am I going to do?
Vincent stopped playing his guitar and started taking off his clothes. He was bravely bearing the scar along his
torso for the whole of the audience to see.
They cant hurt us if were both together.
But were not together, I yelled. Im up here alone. You wont even speak to me!
He walked right up to me, his naked body shining in the lights overhead.
Just because Im not speaking, doesnt mean Ive stopped caring about you. He took me into his arms and the
whole of the audience melted away. Scotty, I still love you.
He gently caressed my bare body, our chests touching together in a passionate embrace.

The people in the crowd are always so cruel to me, he whispered into my ear. Sometimes I just have to block
them out, or Id never be able to keep playing.
I didnt think you got stage fright, I replied. Not when youre so good.
I might be good, but Im still terrified, Vincent said bluntly. Not when youre next to me though
He brushed a strand of my dark, curly hair from my eyes as he leant in for a smouldering kiss
--I woke up with a start.
I was hugging my pillow for dear life and I felt incredibly hot and bothered. My dream had been so real that I
could have sworn I was actually holding onto Vincent.
Looking around my room, the first thing that caught my eye in the morning light was Vincent and Alexiss demo
CD, which was lying strewn on the corner of my desk, opposite the bed. I felt compelled to listen to it, even
though I was barely even awake yet.
I sleepily loaded the songs up onto my laptop, letting Vincents velvet vocals fill the room.
Then I grabbed my phone from where I had flung it down the night before and sent Olive a text message.
Hey Ol. Ive changed my mind. You still up for the gig tomorrow night? X

Chapter 50
Hes Here
Are you sure were heading the right way? I asked Olive. She was following the sat-nav directions on her phone
as we made our way along the road from the train station.
Yeah, I think so, she replied, squinting at the screen. She had decided to make an effort at looking cool and
rocky for the night, so for the first time in all the years I had known her she wasnt wearing her glasses. She
looked stunning in a black top and jeans with her blonde hair back-combed all around her. It was just unfortunate
that she couldnt see in front of her own face.
I told you to wear your contacts.
I dont need them! I can see perfectly fine thank you.
I rolled my eyes, but trusted she was leading us the right way. We hadnt told Alexis that we were coming, instead
wed found the information about the night from the event page on Facebook.
I felt ridiculously nervous as we walked along. Part of me wanted to turn around and get on the first train back
home. I had no idea what to expect out of the evening or how Vincent would react to me being there. All I knew
was that I couldnt give up on us. Not yet. Not without a fight. Maybe it was the vivid dream Id had, or maybe it
was Olive and Alexiss constant nagging, but I finally realised that I had to be there. Whatever happened next, at
least I would know that I had done everything in my power to make things right again.
After a ten-minute walk we eventually reached the venue, a small rock club called The Rabbits Roar. It looked
quite unassuming from the outside, but the sides of the building were plastered with gig posters from all the
artists that had played there. I recognised a fair number of band names despite my limited musical knowledge, so
it must have been a pretty popular place.
Olive reached into her handbag for our home-printed tickets. OK, you ready then Scotty?
My heart was pounding insanely and my mouth felt as dry as a desert. Inside of the venue, I could hear booming
music and the loud babble of people talking and singing. It looked like the most terrifying place imaginable. And
Vincent was somewhere inside. Why would he even notice me here amongst such a massive crowd? Maybe this
was the biggest mistake of my life.
I cant do this, I blurted out.
Olive grabbed hold of my arm and dragged me to the ticket booth.
Yes you CAN. Lets go.
I didnt resist her grip. I followed her to the booth, took a deep breath and handed my ticket over to be stamped.
---

Inside, the lights were dim and hot bodies were crowded in every corner. I recognised a lot of faces from
Havensdale, but there were also lots of students who must have been from other colleges. Upbeat music was
thumping loudly from giant speakers as sound engineers were still setting up the stage for the competition.
I had to shout above the noise for Olive to hear me. Its so busy in here! I bet Vincent wont even know I came.
He will! Olive shouted back. Hes probably backstage or something, but hes bound to see you when he comes
back out.
I hoped she was right, because I was currently feeling like a tiny dot in a massive ocean of people.
We weaved our way through the crowds until we found a pocket of space at the back of the room. It was there
that I suddenly saw a group of faces I recognised. A red-headed girl with two guys, one tall and blonde and the
other short and dark. It was the Dungeon Adventure Club!
Hey guys! I shouted over to the familiar gang. What are you doing here?
Mandy spotted me and walked over with a massive grin on her face. Her usually unruly frizz of hair had been
tamed into a neat ponytail and she was wearing a flattering black dress that complimented her frame.
Scotty, youre here! We didnt know if you were coming or not.
Fritz and Neil followed her, both of them greeting me and then Olive with polite nods.
Yeah, I almost didnt make it, I replied honestly. I dont really know if me and Vincent are still together or not,
but I had to be here.
What you mean not together? Fritz yelled over the music. You two soulmates are you not? Or this is to do with
photographs in corridor?
Yeah, kind of, I shouted into his ear. Ill tell you about it properly later.
Mandy grabbed my arm, talking loudly at me. I heard you got hurt by someones Dad? Is everything OK now?
My friends were all so concerned about me, but it was hardly the time or the place to explain everything to them. I
was actually surprised that Olive hadnt filled them in on all the gory details in my absence. I guess she didnt
know how much I wanted to be made public or not.
Im fine Mandy. Its a long story.
Olive jumped into the conversation to try and spare me from the interrogation.
I didnt think a band night was your kind of thing guys?
Its not usually, Mandy answered. Ive never been somewhere like this in my life! But we love Vincent and
Alexiss band so much, we had to come!
Yes we hope they win, Fritz agreed, taking Mandys hand and squeezing it affectionately. It seemed like the two
of them were still together, which made me smile.

Neil totally has a crush on Alexis too, Mandy added, pointing toward our lanky, blonde club-mate. He blushed
furiously and uttered some kind of protest, but his gentle voice was lost amidst the noise of the room.
Olive laughed like crazy. Oh my God, are you serious?! That girl is too much of a handful for you, Neil!
I think shes nice actually, he retorted, defensively.
I shook my head in amusement. Alexis was most definitely into bad boys and Neil quite clearly didnt fit that bill.
By the way, you both look amazing, Mandy said to me and Olive with a smile. Scotty, are you positive youre
gay? Because I think I kind of fancy you right now You're looking super HOT tonight!
She giggled and gave me a mischievous wink, which caused Fritz to look a little disgruntled. I gave a nervous
laugh.
Oh gosh, thanks Mandy I guess I dont usually have any opportunity to dress up so I thought Id make the
most of it. I was wearing my smartest short-sleeved shirt with a black blazer and Id styled my hair into
pronounced ringlets. I had kept my glasses on though, unlike my silly, squinting best friend.
Mandy looked around the crowd and gave Olive a playful shove. What about you Miss Sexypants? I think some
of the boys here are totally checking you out!
No theyre not! Olive exclaimed in a fluster. Then she blinked a few times. Are they? I literally cant see
anyones face at all
I laughed and shook my head. Good one, mole-woman. I think Im going to go get a drink, do you want
anything?
Orange juice, please!
Because it was a student night and everyone was underage, the bar was only serving soft drinks. However, this
didnt stop everyone crowding around it in excited clusters. I pushed my way through a group of people so I could
be seen by the barman. It was only after Id ordered my drinks that I noticed a familiar figure sitting up at the bar
next to me.
Hey Scottyboy. So you came then?
Taylor Raven was dressed up in his usual casually cool fashion, a bottle of non-alcoholic beer resting between
his lips.
Taylor I didnt think you would be here tonight.
He gave a little shrug.
That Alexis girl gave me a pity invite. And its not like I had anything better to do.
I wasnt sure what to say to him. It must have been a bit weird for him to come out and support the guy he was so
jealous of. Not to mention that most everyone he knew here had pretty much hated him at one point or another.
He was a fish out of water. But still, he was here and trying to be friendly despite everything.

Hows things with your Dad? I asked.

Taylor gave another shrug. Alright, I guess. Hes sobered up, so thats a start. He traced a finger selfconsciously around the inside of his beer bottle. Im really sorry about what happened Scotty.
Forget it, I said loudly above the music. Its not your fault.
The barman placed two orange juices in front of me. I picked them up and directed a nod toward Taylor.
Come and stand with us.
Taylor looked behind his shoulder at my group of friends. Then he turned back to the bar.
Nah, youre alright. Ill just stay here.
Seriously, come on, I said again. We want you there.
Reluctantly he stood up from his barstool and followed me to the back of the room.
My friends all greeted him with a wave and a smile. I watched on warmly as he actually waved and smiled back
at them.
--Soon enough, the lights grew dim and the show began. A middle-aged man in a Rolling Stones t-shirt took to the
stage to announce the line-up for the night and introduce the panel of judges. They were all seated at a table
near the front of the room, looking incredibly official and important. This part of the competition wasnt being
judged by local radio presenters and journalists anymore, but by three very influential people from the music
industry who ran big London record labels.
Weve scouted the whole of the south for the very best student bands, the presenter was saying into his
microphone. And tonight we have six of the best performing for the ultimate prize A 10,000 development deal
with Rolling-Up Records. They are one of the top emerging labels in the UK and will work with the winners to
develop their first album, ready for release with the company!
Everyone in the crowd whooped and cheered, calling out chants of encouragement for whoever they were there
to support. I clapped along enthusiastically, but inside my heart was palpitating with fear. I felt so nervous for
Vincent and Alexis. The prize sounded so amazing, it was everything they had ever wanted. I knew they were
good enough to win, but the competition was going to be tough. I just wanted it so badly for them.
First up tonight, the announcer called, hailing from Brighton, its the three-piece indie band RAINING IN
SPACE!
Raining In Space?! Taylor scoffed, nudging me in the side. What a shitty name!
Three young looking boys bounded onto the stage and broke out into a dreary sounding guitar number.
The Night Birds are way better than these guys, Mandy said into my ear. Vincent and Alexis will have it in the
bag!

I hope so, I replied. They deserve it.

I kept thinking about Vincent sitting in the green room backstage. He was probably running his fingers through his
hair, pretending not to be nervous when really he was terrified. I was fairly sure he wouldnt even know I was
here, but I was still wishing with every cell in my body that he would do well.
You can do it, I muttered under my breath over and over. Come on Vincent, dont be nervous you can do
it
--The Night Birds were the fourth band to play. It was agony waiting for them to come out and I could barely
concentrate on anyone elses sets. When the presenter finally announced their name, everyone around me burst
into a huge cheer.
Come on Vincent! Olive cried loudly. And Alexis! You can do it!
DO SO WELL YOU GUYS, YOU CAN I KNOW! Fritz yelled in his thick German accent.
There were other pockets of cheering around the room too and the sound of girls screaming. It appeared that the
Vincent Hunter Fan Club was still going strong. I was so pleased they were all here for him.
Out of nowhere, Alexiss voice cut across the room, bouncing off every wall.
ALRIGHT EVERYONE ARE YOU GUYS READY TO PARTY TONIGHT?!
Vincents electric guitar came ringing out from the wings and suddenly the two of them were centre stage,
breaking out into one of the songs from their demo CD.
When I saw Vincent on stage, I felt a complete rush of something magical. He looked so perfect in a black t-shirt
and jeans, his hair in his eyes and pure passion shining through every note he played.
I knew the song they were performing word for word, and unlike the last time I saw them play, I now knew the
whole backstory behind Vincents emotionally charged lyrics. Things had been so hard for him growing up, but he
had turned his pain into something beautiful. As everyone went wild for his music, I almost wanted to cry from the
amount of pride I was feeling.
Alexis was amazing too, totally holding her own in a line-up made up of mostly guys. It must have been hard for
her to make her way up the ladder in such a male-dominated scene, but she was miles better than any of the
other bass players that had played before her. She was simply bursting with energy and stage presence,
whipping the audience up into an absolute frenzy.
Their second song, "Bruises, was my favourite. I sang along at the top of my lungs and I noticed that other
people around the room were doing the same. The Night Birds were going down a storm and if they felt nervous
at all, they certainly werent showing it.
As the last notes of the second song echoed across the screaming crowd, Vincent put down his electric guitar on
a stand just behind him. Alexis grabbed the mic and spoke out to the audience.

Thanks so much guys. We have loved playing for you tonight!

I turned to Olive in confusion. Why are they only playing two songs? All the other bands got three.
I dont know, Olive answered anxiously. That doesnt seem fair!
Alexis was still talking onstage. Im going to make my exit now and leave you with Vincent for the final song.
Hes going to play you something a bit different, but I know youre gonna love it!
She waved goodbye to the crowd and bounced off to the left of the stage. The lighting changed and suddenly
Vincent was illuminated in the centre of the floor. He was sitting on a stool and holding an acoustic guitar. He
spoke into the microphone in front of him.
Hey everyone. I hope you dont mind me doing an acoustic number for you to end our set. I wrote it a few days
ago and it means more to me than any song Ive ever written before, so I had to play it tonight. If you could all be
quiet and listen then I would really appreciate it.
Olive shot me a look of amazement. Scotty, what is he doing?!
I I dont know, I stammered, my mouth gaping open. I was starting to feel a little bit sick. Had he written a
song about our break-up? Was I going to have to listen to all the hurt and pain Id caused him in musical form? I
didnt know if I could take it.
Vincent continued addressing the crowd.
I wrote this for someone I really love. Someone Ive messed things up with big time. He gave a little selfdeprecating laugh. I just hope he might hear it one day and know how I feel about him.
My heart stopped. Time stopped.
A girl at the front of the audience let out a screeching heckle. Wait, you wrote this for A GUY?!
Vincent answered her completely calmly. Yes. I wrote this for a guy. Is that a problem?
The whole room let out a huge cheer of support. I think the Vincent Hunter Fan Club was cheering the loudest of
all.
So this guy, Vincent carried on, as though the heckling hadnt even happened, he actually introduced me to
Dolly Parton. I always used to think her music was lame, but it turns out its actually incredibly cool. He showed
me that sometimes you have to look underneath the surface before you cast judgements. Thats why I made this
a country song. Its for him. Hes the best person Ive ever known. And I just wish Id had the guts to invite him
here tonight.
I couldnt breathe. This couldnt be happening could it?
Just as Vincent was about to strum his guitar, Taylor bellowed out across the room.
HES HERE VINCENT. SCOTTYS HERE.

Vincents head snapped up in shock. He looked out into the audience curiously.
Yes, hes here, hes here! Olive joined in. Then all my friends started a chant.
SCOTTYS HERE! SCOTTYS HERE!
Everyone around us was looking over to me. Giggling, whooping in delight and making noises of surprised
excitement. Shyly I put up my hand and gave a little salute in Vincents direction.
His eyes locked onto mine and a slow, dumbfounded smile started creeping across his face.
Then he started playing.

Chapter 51
Reasons
The room was so quiet that you could have heard a pin drop.
Vincent brought his hand down to the strings of his guitar, picking them tenderly and filling the room with a sweet,
gentle melody. As soon as the notes rang out, I could feel them wrap themselves right around my soul.
After a few bars, Vincent opened his mouth and started singing. I didnt know if he could see me properly from
the stage, but he was looking over to me intensely as though he could. His words floated across to me like air
kisses and suddenly there was no one else in the room but the two of us.
They told me I wouldn't make it,
They said that I was bound to fall,
Just a no good troublemaker, living on the edge of the law.
But you saw something in me,
A broken little light,
There was nothing I could do to stop the gravity of you,
Lord knows I didnt wanna fight.
Vincents lyrics were never as simple as Im sorry, I love you. It wasnt his style. They were much more subtle
than that, but I could still understand everything he was trying to tell me.
When everyone else had given up on him, I never did.
I never did and I never would.
All of the reasons, gonna write them on the back of my hand,
Why I loved you,
Why I still do,
Why Im trying the best that I can,
Hey, you know that
He was singing with so much passion that it sent shivers down my spine. There was a charming little country
twang in his voice that I had never heard before. I couldnt believe it was inspired by a record Id shown to him.

The feeling inside of the club was electric. Everyone was watching on with baited breath, looking between
Vincents performance and my reaction. I barely even registered them all. I was lost in a world of moments
between just the two of us.
All of our heartfelt conversations. Dancing together like idiots on the sofa. Playing stupid games. Eating dinner.
Making love. Talking about the past. Talking about the future. It was like our whole relationship went flashing
before my eyes.
I thought wed reached the end. That everything was over and we couldnt make it right again. But now the love
of my life was spilling his heart out in front of a whole crowd of people.
He still loved me. It was all going to be OK.
And I dont know how to tell you sometimes,
How to make you understand,
You have the power to break me,
It hasnt escaped me,
That my hearts in your palm,
Why don't you save me instead?
I could hear Vincents fear in the second half of the song. When I made the stupid mistake of lying to him, it
obviously shook him to the core. I guess the realisation that another person has the ability to break your heart is
pretty frightening, especially if youve had a tough past.
There is absolutely no getting away from the fact that its scary to love someone. To let someone in.
I was starting to realise that all of Vincents silence and strange behaviour from the past week was just him trying
to protect himself. But now he was taking a shaky step into the light.
The walls were crashing down around him and it was so beautiful.
All of the reasons,
I'll let you write them on the back of my hand
The last words of the song fluttered out into the atmosphere. Vincents eyes were shut tight as he sang them, a
look of intent concentration resting on his face.
When he opened them again, his piercing gaze somehow found mine in the crowd. I wondered if he could
actually see me in the darkness. I had tears streaming down my cheeks and I didnt care if anyone noticed them.
For a moment after the song finished, there was a mesmerised hush from the whole room. It was a silence that
said so much. A thousand sentences in one single brief pause.

Then there was an eruption of noise. Cheering, clapping and shouts of joy. Everyone was going completely wild.
All the judges on the panel were clapping too. My heart was filling to the brim with a mixture of pride, love and
happiness. All my friends were patting my back and ruffling my hair in excitement.
Vincent smiled on the stage. He gave a small thank you and a nod before making his exit.
The cheers in the room kept going long after hed left.
--Sorry kid, this room is for performers only.
The burly looking security guard by the backstage door held his hand out to me to stop me from entering.
I replied in a shout to be heard over the next band who had just started playing. I know, but I really need to see
Vincent Hunter. Could you maybe tell him Im out here?
Before the security guard could reply, Alexis popped her head through the window of the door he was manning.
As soon as she saw me, she began shouting out to the guard.
Oi mate, hes our friend! Let him in yeah?
He let out an exasperated grunt and opened the door. Go on then, but be quick.
Alexis grabbed my arm and yanked me inside. She seemed completely hyperactive.
Youre here, oh my God Scotty youre actually here! What did you think of the set? Didnt you just love Vincents
song? Hes been working on it for fucking ages and I wanted you to hear it so bad! It was a risk to play it to the
judges, but it seemed to go down a storm! Did you love it?
She was starting to sound similar to Olive with her over-excited babbling to me. As she talked she was ushering
me along the backstage corridor, past various small rooms with other performers inside.
Of course I loved it, I answered honestly. You guys were both so amazing. And that song I dont even know
what to say.
Well, youd better figure it out quickly, Alexis replied. Because I think its time you and Vincent finally had a little
talk.
She pushed me into a room that was situated right at the end of the corridor. Then she closed the door with a
foreboding chuckle.
The room was pretty basic. It had white walls and a little fridge in the corner. Right in the middle was a black,
fraying sofa. And right on that sofa was Vincent Hunter.
He looked up, slightly startled at my presence.
Specs. How did you get in here?

His hair was matted with sweat from his performance and his big, brown eyes looked sincere and (if I wasnt
mistaken) slightly apprehensive. He had just bared his soul to me in song form in front of everyone. He must
have been feeling pretty nervous about it.
I took one look at him and I was overcome with so much love and emotion, I couldnt control myself.
Walking over to him, I grabbed his face firmly in my hands and kissed him passionately. At first Vincent didnt
react, perhaps out of surprise. But after a few seconds, I felt his hands winding around my back as he pulled me
down toward him on the sofa.
I soon found myself settling into his lap, my arms hugging his neck tightly as our mouths became a frenzy. He
was pulling me harder into him, as though no closeness would ever be close enough.
Eventually, we parted, both of us breathing heavily.
Did you mean everything you just sang? I asked between gasps.
Vincent nodded, his eyes searching the depths of mine.
I ran my hands through his hair, the relief of finally being able to touch him rushing over me like a tidal wave.
It was so beautiful. Thank you. It honestly took my breath away.
Vincent brought his forehead to mine. I could feel the energy sparking tangibly between us.
Im sorry Ive been acting the way I have. I didnt even think you would be here tonight. When I heard everyone
chanting your name out in the crowd it was all I could do not to have a fucking breakdown on stage.
Really? I exclaimed. Well, you hid it well.
Yeah well, I hide a lot well, Vincent muttered, grabbing my shoulders and pulling me closer still. Like how much
I bloody love you.
He kissed me again, this time more softly. He smelled like smoke and aftershave. I just wanted to douse myself in
the magnificent scent of him. I wrapped my arms around his lean waist, coiling into his hold with every part of my
body.
Mid-kiss, Vincent pulled away and looked at me directly.
God Specs, you look absolutely gorgeous tonight. What have you done thats different?
I felt my cheeks burning. Nothing! Ive just dressed up a bit.
A mischievous glint flickered in Vincents eyes. I could just have my wicked way with you right here, right now...
He dove into the nape of my neck, kissing me with all of his might. I let out a little yelp.
VINCENT! We cant! Anyone could walk in here!
I dont care, he panted between kisses.

VINCENT!!
I pushed him away, laughing. He pulled back and ruffled my hair.
OK, Ill control myself... For now.
His fingers lingered in my hair for a few long moments as he looked at me with a strange expression. It was some
kind of mix between relief and adoration. I was probably looking at him in exactly the same way.
Are we OK now? I asked, my voice becoming more serious. Are we back together?
Vincent kissed me ever so gently.
If youll have me back?
I wrapped my arms back around his neck, determined never to let go of him ever again.
Dont ask such stupid questions.
Outside the door, I could hear the pounding bass of the music coming from the stage, as well as footsteps of all
the other performers going up and down the corridor. It was all just white noise. We blocked everything out,
curling up together and kissing endlessly on the sofa until the band that were playing in the background had run
out of songs.
--By the time Vincent and I left the room backstage, there was only one band left to perform in the competition.
I feel bad that I didnt watch the other bands, Vincent muttered to me as we walked down the corridor, hand in
hand.
None of them stayed to watch your set, I replied. And besides, it was an emergency.
Vincent raised an eyebrow. A kissing emergency?
I bit my lip guilty. Well, yes. Exactly.
We pushed out of the door and back into the hot, noisy crowd of people outside. There were some gasps and
excited chattering from various students around as they saw us walk past holding hands. We had evidently
caused a bit of a stir.
My friends were still standing at the back of the room and Alexis was now with them too. Everybodys faces lit up
when they saw us approach them.
Oh my God, Olive squealed, her gaze locking onto Vincents hand resting in mine. You guys are back
together?!
Looks that way, I smirked.

Alexis flung her arms around both of our shoulders. Im so happy you two finally sorted it out! Bloody hell, I was
starting to get worried youd never fix things. Ive never known two such stubborn bastards in my whole life!
I know right?! Olive agreed. I mean come on, you both love each other. I thought wed end up having to bang
your heads together!
Alexis was practically choking me with her one-armed hug. I patted her hand cautiously. Luckily we have such
great friends who helped us to see the light.
Vincent grabbed hold of Alexis and kissed her on the cheek. Youre OK about all this, right Al?
Well DUH, she shouted over the band. Im the one who got Scotty here in the first place. I just want you to be
happy Vincent! She paused. Are you happy?
He positively beamed back at her. Are you kidding? Im fucking ecstatic!
We all laughed and hugged, caught up in a whirlwind rush of affection for one another. Everything was going to
be OK. Vincent and I had a future again. Not to mention the best friends in the world. Life suddenly seemed like
such an exciting thing.
It was in the middle of our group hug that I abruptly noticed Taylor from the corner of my eye. He was leaning
against the back wall with his head down, looking strangely sad and awkward. Even Mandy, Neil and Fritz had
shuffled over to join our love-in, but Taylor was purposefully hanging back. I guess after everything that had
happened in our crazy love triangle, he didnt feel like he deserved a place in the group.
Seeing him standing there all alone caused a sharp pang to shoot through my heartstrings. Without thinking, I
beckoned him over.
Hey Taylor, come join us!
He carried on leaning against the wall. No, its fine.
Everyone started shouting over to him, including Vincent.
Come on you insufferable little wanker, get your arse over here!
Taylor looked positively shocked at Vincents invitation. Tentatively, he made his way toward the group, where he
instantly found a cluster of arms around him. I heard him laugh as Alexis shoved him playfully and Vincent patted
his shoulder as though their whole history had evaporated overnight.
Perhaps it had.
Perhaps we really could all be happy. Together.
As the evening went on, I felt such an overwhelming sense of joy that I almost didnt notice when the lights finally
dimmed low for the results of the night. The crowd started clapping as the announcer for the evening took to the
stage, holding a golden envelope with the judges decision written inside.
Alexis and Vincent both grabbed each others hands in anticipation. I took Vincents other hand in mine.

OK everyone, its the moment youve all been waiting for, the presenter exclaimed. The judges have had an
incredibly heated debate over all of this evenings fantastic performers, but, of course, there can only be one
winner
I felt Vincents fingers trembling. This was the moment of truth. The prize that was on offer could make his and
Alexis whole career. It was life-changing.
The Night Birds, I whispered under my breath. The Night Birds. Just say it. Say it
The announcer licked his lips in anticipation.
And the winner is

Chapter 52
After-Party
And the winner is
I squeezed Vincents hand.
The announcer fumbled with the envelope, then shouted excitedly into the crowd.
RAINING IN SPACE! COME ON UP HERE GUYS!
There was a collective gasp across the whole room. Groups of students started looking at each other in
confusion. I could hear loud snippets of protest from every corner.
Those were the worst guys of the night!"
"Vincents song was beautiful! How could it lose?"
"This is a FIX! The Night Birds were amazing!
I slowly turned to Vincent, who seemed to be slightly taken aback. Olives mouth was gaping open and Alexis
looked completely devastated. I think all of us thought The Night Birds had it in the bag, so this was too much to
take.
The winning band all ran up onto the stage, screaming for joy. The audience gave an incredibly lacklustre round
of applause, but the exuberant group of boys obviously didnt care about that when they had just won a tenthousand-pound development deal.
Vincent started clapping and Alexis shook him ferociously.
Oi, what are you doing! They didnt deserve to win!
They won it fair and square Al, Vincent replied. Dont be a sore loser.
But that was OUR prize, Alexis cried out in despair. What are we going to do now?!
She looked like she was on the verge of a hysterical breakdown. I put a comforting arm around her shoulder,
which for once she didnt try to shake off.
Im so sorry Alexis. It should have been you guys, I just dont understand it.
The announcer was now reading out the judges comments about Raining In Space and their supposedly
amazing songwriting and performance skills.
Talk about rubbing it in, Alexis groaned. What about OUR songwriting and performance skills? Maybe the
acoustic song was too much of a risk.

I felt my stomach churning with guilt. Was I the reason they had just lost the deal of their dreams? Maybe a gay
frontman was simply too much for the music industry to handle.
Well, I dont regret it, Vincent said firmly. And you shouldnt either. We gave it everything we had. If those guys
from Rolling-Up Records didnt appreciate it, then theyre obviously not the right company for us.
But they were the only option we had, Alexis lamented. What the fuck are we going to do now? We dont have
a Plan B!
Vincent rested his hand on her back. Were going to work hard. And then more opportunities will come.
It was at this point that a cluster of excitable young girls came over to our little group. I vaguely recognised some
of them from Havensdale, but they were with friends from another school.
Hey Vincent, the tallest girl said in greeting. We just wanted to say that we all LOVED your set. We thought for
sure you were going to win. Are you playing any more gigs soon?
All of her friends were grinning inanely at him and Alexis. And at me too. They all looked star struck.
Yeah, Im sure we will be, Vincent answered in a friendly manner. Thanks for the support. Do you follow us on
Facebook?
All of them instantly whipped out their smartphones and added the band page.
Alexis peered over the shoulder of one of the girls. Hey! Our band page has gone up by over fifty likes!
Vincent gave her an I-Told-You-So grin. Maybe they hadnt won the prize, but things were far from over for The
Night Birds. People loved them, and they were only going to get bigger whether they had a record deal or not.
The group of fans all waved goodbye to us whilst giggling. I heard one of them squealing to her friend as they
left. Oh my God, I cant believe we actually spoke to them! Alexis is soooo cool! And how cute are Vincent and
his boyfriend up close?!
I could tell that both Vincent and Alexis had got a real buzz out of being approached like that. It seemed to
cushion the blow of their disappointment. We all smiled at them, happy that they were being recognised by
people, even if it wasnt the judges.
Right, come on guys, Vincent said, turning back to the group. Whos up for an after-party at mine then? We can
all commiserate in style.
An after-party?! Mandy squeaked in shock. I dont know about that, its already quite late!
She was the youngest of the group, so I guess it was understandable that she wasn't used to late nights out.
Aww come on Mandy, Olive whined. Were always such good girls, lets do something crazy tonight!
Olives rebellious side was making me laugh. I think her rocky makeover had gone to her head.

I suppose I could call my parents and tell them Ill be back a bit later, Mandy mused. But how will I get to
Vincents and back? My Dad was going to pick all of us up.
I dont mind giving you a lift, Taylor interjected. And dropping you home later. I mean if Im invited to the
party. He dropped his gaze downward, obviously embarrassed that he was being so forward.
Of course youre invited, Vincent said bluntly. That settles it then. Scotty, Al and Olive can come in my car and
Taylor can take Mandy, Fritz and Neil.
We all whooped in excitement. You would never have even known that The Night Birds had just lost, because we
were all so stupidly happy.
--The cold night air hit our faces refreshingly as we exited the hot furnace of The Rabbits Roar.
Oh God, that feels so good, Alexis sighed, fanning her face with her hands.
We all took a moment to cool ourselves down before heading to where Vincent had parked his car. As we stood
in the doorway to the venue, a tall dark figure came up to us from behind.
Hey there. Vincent and Alexis, right?
Vincent turned around. Thats us.
The figure got a little closer until we could see their face. It was one of the male judges from the panel.
Hi there! My names Matthew Cookson, I was helping with the judging tonight. I just wanted to say that I thought
you two were absolutely outstanding. You have it so together as a band, I think youve really got something
special. And that end song, wow that took some guts.
Thanks, Vincent said with a tiny smile.
Yeah, its just a shame we werent good enough to win, Alexis added with a hint of bitterness. Vincent shot her
an annoyed look, but she didnt seem to care.
Matthew gave a chuckle. See, thats what I love about you guys, youre so feisty! Its great! And youve got so
much talent. I argued for you to win from the start, but I was outvoted. Ultimately we had to look for people with
the potential to be moulded into what the company wanted A polished indie-pop band. But thats not you two. I
think youre more than that.
Vincent and Alexis looked between each other bemusedly. Was this a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel?
Im afraid Im not with a big company like Rolling-Up Records, Matthew continued. But I do run an independent
label in London and Im really interested in working with you. He fished in his pocket for a business card, which
he handed to Alexis. We have a few upcoming bands on our roster like Batcave and Hello See Ya. I think youd
fit in great with them and we could definitely look at getting you some support slots for their shows.

OH MY GOD, Alexis cried. I LOVE THOSE BANDS! She nudged Vincent in the ribs. Hello See Ya got
nominated at the last Mercury Music Awards, theyve got a huge underground following!
I cant offer you the big bucks like Rolling-Up can, Matthew carried on. But we actually care about our artists
and give them the freedom to explore their creativity. And I think we do well for them. Gigs and promotions wise,
well have you covered in return for a fair cut of any profit made. If youre interested then Id love to set up a
meeting with you guys sometime.
Oh, we are definitely interested Mr. Cookson, Vincent replied instantly. Very much so.
Fantastic! Matthew exclaimed, clapping his hands together. My number is on my card, so how about you give
me a call next week and we can talk more?
Sure thing, Vincent said, barely able to hide the astonishment in his voice.
They say that everything happens for a reason. I can be a pretty sceptical person, but sometimes you really do
have to wonder
--I cant believe this is really happening! Alexis squealed. She was sitting on Vincents sofa and clutching hold of
Matthews business card for dear life.
Upbeat party music was pumping out of the stereo and there were hordes of snacks and drinks scattered around
the room on every visible surface. We were all in massively high spirits and dancing like we had never danced
before. Mandy and Fritz were holding hands and spinning each other around, Olive was boogying on her own
whilst scoffing a packet of crisps and I was swaying and singing with my arms around Vincent and Taylor.
I dont think any of us could have imagined that this scenario would ever happen in a million years, but there you
go. It was happening. I guess things really can change.
Opposite us, I saw Neil edge his way over toward Alexis on the sofa.
I thought you were just wonderful tonight, he said to her boldly. You have so much talent and energy and if
you dont mind me saying, you looked quite lovely whilst you knocked the socks off everyone.
If I wasnt mistaken, I saw a blush creep across Alexiss face.
Oh, um thanks. Who are you again?
Neil looked mortified. Um, um, Im Neil. Im in Dungeon Adventure Club with Scotty.
Oh right, the dork club, Alexis replied. She looked Neil up and down. He was so tall and lanky, and his long
blonde hair was free from its ponytail for a change, hanging around his face like two curtains.
I thought for sure that she was going to make an excuse and walk away from him, but instead she grabbed his
hand. Come on, lets dance. I love this song!

Neil looked like he was about to throw up as she dragged him onto an empty space in the living room and flung
her arms around him. His tall frame towered over her tiny one, but they actually looked kind of cute together.
I nudged Vincent to get his attention. Hey look! I think it might be Neils lucky night.
Vincent chuckled as he watched them dancing. You never know, maybe theyll be the new Havensdale 'it couple'
after this.
I highly doubt it, I laughed. Anyway, I thought that title went to us?
Vincent pulled me close and gave me a tiny kiss on the top of my head. You fucking know it Specs.
So you guys are OK now? Taylor suddenly shouted over to us.
Yeah, I smiled. We will be.
Obviously Vincent and I still had a bit of talking to do, once all of our friends had gone home. But I knew
everything would be alright. In fact, we were having such a wonderful evening that I almost forgot we had ever
been fighting in the first place.
Im happy for you guys, Taylor said. Thanks for letting me come along tonight. You dont have to be so fucking
nice to me all the time. But still, Im grateful for it.
Vincent walked towards Taylor so they were standing eye to eye.
Taylor, Im not going to lie. I hate the things youve done in the past. The way you treated Scotty.
Taylor hung his head down in shame. I know.
But in spite of everything, Vincent continued, you were a big part of Scottys life. And I know theres a reason
for that. Theres someone good inside of you. And that version of Taylor is always welcome here, OK?
Taylor flushed red. OK.
We all stood in silence for a few moments. Then the song in the background changed to a mid-tempo Fleetwood
Mac tune that everyone recognised from an advert. The room filled with the sound of singing.
Taylor spoke softly into my ear, his voice disguised by the noise.
Promise me youll be happy, alright?
I promise, I answered, meaning it.
Taylor gave a sad smile. I know you will be. Vincent is a really good guy. I just wish I could find what you guys
have together.
You will Taylor, I said as I gave his hand a little squeeze. One day, I know you will.
---

The party carried on into the night until we were all too tired to keep going. We were having such a great time
together that we didnt want it to end, but as the hands of the clock crept into the early hours of the morning, we
knew that we had better start winding down. Especially as some peoples parents had been expecting them
home hours ago.
We all hugged and said our goodbyes, then Vincent and Taylor got back in their cars to drop everyone home. I
stayed in the flat, tidying up the remnants of food packets and empty drinks cups. Luckily the mess wasnt too
bad. Besides, it had been completely worth it for the memories we had made.
When Vincent returned back to the flat, the absence of everyone else was hugely noticeable. Now it was just the
two of us alone together.
Hey you, I smiled at him as he walked in through the door.
Hey you, he echoed, coming closer to wrap his arms around me. What an amazing night that was.
I hugged him firmly. I know. Im so glad I decided to come along tonight.
It was hard to believe that I almost hadnt gone to the gig. I didnt want to think about how different the future
could have turned out for me.
Vincent rubbed his hand across my back. Specs, I dont know about you but Im bloody shattered. Do you mind if
we go to bed and talk more in the morning?
I gave him a shocked look. Oh, you assume that Im staying over with you tonight?
Vincent seemed startled. You youre not staying?
I laughed. Im just kidding. Of course, I am.
--Vincent lay with his arms resting tightly around me. His hold was so warm and comforting, I could have drifted off
to sleep in an instant. Instead, I wanted to savour the feeling of his skin pressing against mine. We were both
topless, wearing only boxer shorts under the covers. His legs wound around my calves and his chin rested softly
against my shoulder. We were a tangle of closeness, but it still wasnt close enough.
Vincent, I whispered through the darkness. Are you asleep yet?
No he whispered back.
I rolled over to face him.
Are you sure youre tired? Maybe we could...
I tailed off the sentence suggestively. Vincent nuzzled his head against mine.
Do you want to...?

I nodded breathlessly. I want you closer

He didnt need asking twice. He reached over to his bedside cabinet for protection and lubricant, then he started
kissing me with a mixture of tenderness and fierce urgency. His hands caressed across my whole body as he
tugged my boxer shorts down, kicking them out from under the covers and onto the bedroom floor.
I love you so much, he breathed into my ear as he manoeuvred his body on top of mine. After a few long
minutes of fervid touching, he gently eased himself inside of me and I gasped out loud at the sensation. He
began to move slowly in a deep and sensual rhythm. I carefully positioned myself to face him, running my hands
across his back, his neck, his hair kissing him over and over as the pressure built up inside me.
We were engaged in a very physical act, but it wasnt just a feeling of bodily pleasure. Nothing could compare to
how close I felt to Vincent at that moment. There were no more barriers between us. We were as intimate and
together as two people could ever be. He was inside every part of me. My body, my soul and my heart.
In the final moments, I looked into his eyes. It was dark and I didnt have my glasses on, so he looked slightly
blurry, but I could still read every emotion inside of him. I knew he was feeling everything I could feel. We both let
out soft gasps as we hit our peaks almost simultaneously.
Afterwards, we didnt say anything. We didnt need to.
We curled up under the covers, face to face with our limbs still entwined together.
I fell into a deep, contented sleep and when I woke the next morning, Vincent was still holding me as though he
would never let me go.

Chapter 53
Epilogue
THREE MONTHS LATER
Right, lets just take some more outside shots before you go.
Mum, youve already taken about two hundred photos!
Yes, but we dont have any in the garden yet! And its such a beautiful day! Come on!
My Mum was clutching hold of her digital camera and barking orders at me and Vincent about how and where to
pose. She had already made us stand outside the house, sit on the stairs and pose individually beside her to
prove she'd been there too.
Our limo will be here soon, I protested. I dont want to be late!
Oh, you wont be darling, Mum insisted, ushering us toward the back door. Just a few more piccys!
I directed a sarcastic eye-roll toward Vincent and spoke to him in a whisper. You realise shes going to be even
worse next year when its MY Leavers Ball.
He gave an amused smirk and grabbed hold of my hand, pulling me along. I think its sweet. It shows she cares.
When we reached the back door, I saw that Mum had picked up her iPad in the short distance between the living
room and the garden.
Ive just shared some of the pictures on Facebook and theyve already got three likes!
I let out a groan. For Gods sake Mum! Why did you have to join Facebook?! Its so embarrassing!
Oh shush, Mum chastised. Now stand over there by the light.
We obeyed her instructions and fixed on our best camera-ready smiles as she snapped away exuberantly.
You two just look so adorable, you really do! I wish your father was here to see you now, hed be so proud!
Oh, Mum!
I shared a secret smile with Vincent in between shots. It had to be said, he looked utterly amazing in the black
tuxedo he was wearing. I had on a matching suit, complete with a blue bow-tie and navy handkerchief poking out
of the top pocket.
After another zillion photographs or so had been taken, there was a ring at the door.
That must be the limo, Mum squawked in a fluster. Go on then, get going! Have an amazing night boys. TAKE
LOTS MORE PHOTOS!

Of course Mrs. Williams, Vincent replied with a wink, which set her off giggling like a twitterpated schoolgirl. I
love my Mum so much, but she really is unbelievable sometimes.
We headed outside hand in hand, where a chauffeur was waiting to take us to Havensdale College in style. He
opened the door to the limo and we were instantaneously hit with the sound of screaming.
OH MY GOD, YOU GUYS LOOK AMAAAAZIINGGG!
Alexis was lounging across the backseat of the car, holding a flute of champagne. She was wearing an incredible
strapless black dress that was both punky and sophisticated all at the same time. Next to her, in a white tuxedo,
was an anxiously excited looking Neil.
It turned out that Alexis didnt just have a thing for bad boys after all. Ever since the night of the gig where she
first met Neil, the two of them had been pretty much inseparable. Neil absolutely adored her and his gentle
kindness seemed to be exactly what she had needed.
We clambered into the limo and each grabbed our own glass of champagne. Technically I still wasnt quite old
enough to be drinking yet, but I figured one glass wouldnt hurt
As the car started up, we rolled down the windows and all waved goodbye to my Mum, who was standing in the
front porch and waving back like a crazy person.
I saw all the pictures your Mum posted, Alexis said, pulling out her phone from her sparkly clutch purse.
Since when are you and my Mum Facebook friends?! I exclaimed incredulously.
Oh look, Alexis carried on, ignoring me. Taylor has just liked all the photos too! Its a shame we couldnt sneak
him in tonight.
Because it was the upper sixths Leavers Ball, it was strictly for students in the final year and their dates, which
meant that Taylor could only come if someone in the upper sixth had invited him as their plus one.
Well, well have this all over again next year, I said. So Im sure he wont be too cut up about it.
Taylor had changed so much over the past few months. He was unrecognisable from the boy he had been
before. Of course, he was still pretty sullen and spiky sometimes, but he had left all his spitefulness far in the
past. He had even ditched The Brainless Baker Boys, who now followed Patricia around as her snivelling
henchmen instead.
He hadnt gone back to playing tennis after missing out on the national competition, and I think his relationship
with his Dad was still pretty fractured because of it. But in all honesty, Taylor seemed a hell of a lot happier just
being himself without the constant pressure of winning matches all the time. I think the whole sport had turned
him into someone he never wanted to be. Now he was finally taking control of his life again.
It was hard for him, but I knew he would get there in the end. Besides, we were all there to support him. Even
Vincent.
The limo drove around Havensdale in a big circle, giving us all time to enjoy the ride. We giggled like maniacs
whilst Alexis poked her head out of the window to scream at random people on the street we passed by.

This is so cool, she exclaimed excitedly. Ive always wanted to ride in a limo!
Thank you so much for organising it for us, I beamed. Are you sure you dont want me to chip in for some of
it?
Specs, we told you its our treat, Vincent chastised, patting my leg gently. Anyway, its our Leavers Ball and
you and Neil are the guests, so just let us spoil you for one night.
Ever since Vincent and Alexiss big gig night, they had been inundated with offers for paid gigs. Not just in
Havensdale, but in London too. Their contact Matthew from the judging panel had been true to his word and met
up with them to talk about the future. He was currently setting them up with small gigs around London and was
looking into getting them a touring support slot with one of his company's big bands later on in the year.
The Night Birds werent quite rich and famous yet, but they had a decent fanbase and were making good money
from all their gigs and merchandise sales. I knew things would only get bigger and better for them. It was a
proper career path, which meant Vincent could finally start making his own money instead of relying on his Dads
guilt-ridden handouts.
Plus, the best part of all was that he and Alexis would both be staying in Havensdale for the next year. They
decided to defer their uni placements and see where things would lead with the band. If everything went as
planned, they wouldnt be going to uni at all and would instead be moving to London right around the same time
as I would be starting my first year in higher education.
And there were plenty of great universities in London to pick from.
Our limo ride lasted for the best part of an hour before finally pulling into the school's student carpark. There were
lots of other limousines and posh cars around the area, as well as plenty of excited students dressed in their
finest suits and dresses. I didnt recognise many of them as they were all from the year above me. Lots of people
seemed to know who I was though, and our little group was bombarded with greetings and gasps of recognition
as we made our way into the building.
Hey look, its Alexis and Vincent from The Night Birds! Wow, they look great!
Are Scotty and Vincent in matching suits? They are SO CUTE!
How come Alexis is dating that geeky year 11 guy? No fair, I want to date her!
Scotty is so bloody cute, no wonder hes Vincents muse. Did you hear that amazing song Vincent wrote for
him? It made me cry!
I waved shyly at all the people calling over to me. Then Vincent proudly took my hand, leading me into the
college building. The action caused a cluster of giggling girls to erupt into squeals of approval.
Stop pandering to your fangirls, Alexis said, sticking out her tongue at us.
Hey, were just giving the people what they want, Vincent answered with a grin. Then he pulled me toward him
and gave me a loving kiss on my cheek. The group of girls saw us and screamed out loud.
Alexis rolled her eyes and stomped ahead of us, dragging Neil along behind her.

The Leavers Ball was being held in the school auditorium, and it had been totally transformed for the night.
Whiteclothed tables had been set up all around the hall with balloons and confetti all over them. Beautiful
decorations in pastel colours hung from every corner of the ceiling, and there was a delicious looking buffet at the
back of the room. A DJ was on the stage, playing loud party music and shining lights across the crowd.
We found our table in the centre of the room and put down all of our bags and jackets. I looked around the big
hall in wonder. Wow, it looks so different in here! Its amazing!
Of course its amazing, a voice behind me said. I never settle for anything less!
Olive was standing just behind me, with her hands resting smugly on her hips. She was wearing a beautiful lilac
coloured dress and her blonde hair was showering around her shoulders in giant curls. Unlike the night of
Vincents gig, her glasses were on prominent display. And her braces.
Oh my gosh, you look like a glorious Geek Princess, I gasped, rushing over to hug her.
She laughed out loud, hugging me back. Well, thats exactly the look I was going for.
Although Olive wasnt in her final year of Havensdale, being head girl of the sixth form meant she was still
involved in any of the school events and committees she wanted to be a part of. She loved organising anything,
so she jumped at the chance to help out. Plus she got to stay at the Ball in return for putting decorations up all
day.
Olly you missed out on the limo, Alexis crowed, running over to her and tackling her. Bet youre suuuuper
jealous!
Oh, whatever Al, Olive replied in a snarky tone. At least I got a free ticket for tonight. You suckers had to pay!
The two girls started play-fighting and roaring stupidly at each other.
Yes, it was everyones worst nightmare come true. Olive and Alexis had become new BFFs. Nobody saw it
coming because they were both such polar opposites, but they soon discovered that they got along swimmingly
together. Olive definitely made Alexis think more about her actions and inspired her to be a better person. But on
the other side of the coin, Alexis was a terrible influence on Olive. I dreaded to think of all the trouble they would
get into together in the future.
Have you thought about uni yet? Alexis suddenly questioned her new pal, mid-roar. Come on LONDON! All
four of us! You and Scotty can get into the same university, me and Vincent will be doing regular gigs AND WE
CAN ALL BE ROOMATES! It will be just like Friends!
I cant just pick any old uni, Olive replied huffily. I have to actually think about what course I want to take. And it
all depends on what grades I get...
Oh whatever, Alexis snorted. Youll get all As, you know you will! And all the best unis are in London anyway!
It was another month before we got back the results of our AS Levels, which would go toward our final grades for
our A Levels. I was pretty sure that Olive had nothing to worry about.

Actually, I was pretty sure I was on the right track too. In spite of all the disruptions over the last few months, I felt
confident about my results. All my exams had gone surprisingly well and there were barely any questions I had
been uncertain about.
Maybe you should be thinking about your results too Alexis, Olive continued in a stern tone. I know things are
going well with the band right now, but its always good to have a back-up plan.
Its too late for me now, Alexis laughed. I think I failed every subject!
I chuckled. The truth was that both Alexis and Vincent were a lot smarter than either of them let on. I had no
doubt that they would be getting perfectly passable results, which they could always fall back on if they needed
to.
IF they needed to. The rate things were blowing up for them, I didnt see why they would really need to consider a
non-musical career path.
Suddenly The Macarena started blasting out of the speakers and students from every corner rushed onto the
dance floor.
Alexis grabbed hold of Neils hand. BABE! I love this one, quick lets join in!
Umm, I I dont know if I know the dance, Neil stammered as he was dragged along. It didnt matter if he didnt
know it, Alexis was going to make sure he had every move perfected by the end of the night.
I grinned up at Vincent. Wanna dance?
Oh Specs, this one is so cheesy, he complained. Do we have to?
Olive appeared behind the two of us and started pushing us onto the floor. EVERYONE dances! You have to! I
need this night to be a success!
Hey, you dont get to boss me around anymore, I said teasingly. Not now Ive been demoted to SECOND BEST
friend.
Dont be stupid, youll always be my best friend, Olive snapped back. Theres no need to be jealous just
because Ive clicked with Alexis!
The terrible twosome, I muttered.
She whacked me hard on the arm, then pretty much threw me out onto the dance floor.
Before long we were all standing in a line, giggling and dancing like mad. Neil and Vincent were getting all the
moves wrong so we all started to move their limbs for them. Everyone was crying with laughter by the end of the
song.
The evening had only just begun, and I already knew it was going to be one of the best nights of my life.
---

The hours faded into a blur of happiness. We danced, chatted, laughed and ate like there was no tomorrow. I
could hardly believe it when the end of the night finally came. It all seemed to go by so quickly.
On the stroke of midnight, the upbeat song that was playing morphed into a Robbie Williams ballad.
OK guys, its the last slow song of the evening, the DJ said into his microphone. Nows your moment to finally
ask that person youve had a crush on all year to join you for a dance!
Alexis fell into Neils arms and the two of them slow-danced closely together as they looked into each others
eyes. I even saw Neil reach out his hand to stroke Alexiss face protectively. It made me melt a little bit inside.
Then I felt a pair of arms around my own waist. Come here my little Specs.
Vincent pulled me sweetly into his embrace. We swayed from side to side to the music, holding each other tightly.
I saw some of Vincents fans smiling over at us with gooey looking expressions. It was kind of embarrassing, but
also kind of nice. I was glad we had support from our classmates and didnt go to a college where we were
banned from coming to the Ball together or something. Im sure Id seen that happen in movies before.
Olive was standing at the side of the hall, faffing about with the now-desecrated buffet table and picking up
peoples rubbish. I was about to ask her to come and join me and Vincent in our dance when a handsome boy
from the upper sixth approached her. I couldn't hear what he was saying, but I was pretty sure he was asking her
to dance.
I patted Vincents arm excitedly. Look, that guy is asking Olive to dance with him!
We watched over with anticipation. Then I heard her loudly turning him down.
Im sorry, but do you think I have time to be dancing right now? Things dont just get tidied up on their own you
know! Go and dance with your friends, the DJs finishing in ten minutes!
She waved him away and he shuffled off dejectedly.
Oh for Gods sake! I exclaimed.
Vincent laughed. Shes a woman who knows her own mind.
I gave an exasperated sigh before putting my head back on Vincents chest. He rubbed my back gently, pulling
me into him and nuzzling against the top of my head.
Things had been perfect between us over the past few months. There were no more secrets and no more walls
between us. I knew it was hard at first for Vincent to come to terms with my hidden past, but now it hardly
seemed like a big deal at all. Taylor was actually our friend despite everything, and of course I was finally close
with Alexis too.
Vincent was learning to get over his trust issues and was now diving back into love head-first. I thought it might
have taken a while to reach some kind of normality again, but we fell back into our relationship with ease.
Everything was the same as it was before. In fact, it was even better.

I hugged Vincent tightly, feeling overwhelmed with joy at the way things had turned out for us. I didnt want to let
him go. I didnt want the night to come to an end.
As the last notes of the song played out across the room, Vincent whispered into my ear.
Follow me.
To my confusion, he started leading me across the floor to the exit, weaving his way through all the couples on
the dance floor. Everyone was so loved-up that they didnt notice us making our escape.
Where are you taking me? I asked, feeling puzzled. We were standing in the school corridor, which was totally
empty.
Vincent started dragging me along the hall and up the nearest staircase. Lets go up to the roof!
Vincent, we cant! I exclaimed. Were not allowed!
So what?
We had been explicitly told from numerous teachers that the rooftop was out of bounds during the Leavers Ball.
Perhaps they felt that over-excited students dabbling with heights on their last day of college was a bad idea.
I hated breaking the rules, not to mention I still had another year to go at Havensdale, so it could very well affect
my record if I got caught.
But at the same time, it was kind of thrilling to be doing something bad.
I chased Vincent up the stairs until we reached the rooftop. The summer night air was mild and comforting, and
the view was a breathtakingly beautiful ocean of stars and city lights.
We stood by the wall that ran around the edge of the rooftop, both of us in the same place we had been standing
the last time we had been there together.
Its so amazing up here, I breathed in wonder. I cant believe how different things were when we were last
looking out at this view.
I know, Vincent agreed with a little smile. Seems so bloody long ago now.
I had no idea that you were even gay then, I laughed. I thought Id been barking up the wrong tree completely. I
was totally heartbroken when I ran off down the stairs!
Vincents hand inched toward mine. Oh, Specs. I dont like that story.
Well, it doesnt matter now, I said airily. Everything worked out in the end.
I know, Vincent replied. But still let me just take this moment to do what I should have done that night.
With that, he scooped me up into his arms, and kissed me with so much passion and intensity that I practically
melted into a human puddle. I kissed him back hungrily, intoxicated by the night and the lights shining all around

us. He looked absolutely edible in his tuxedo and I wanted him all around me. I wanted all of his warmth and
kindness and verve for life. I wanted him, always.
We kissed for a good ten minutes straight, shedding our tuxedo jackets as we heated up. Our hands ran across
each others faces and bodies until we were blurring together completely as one. Vincent pressed me up against
the wall, kissing me all along my neck and practically knocking my glasses off my face.
Eventually, we slowed down, our kisses becoming more soft and loving. Vincent planted one more on my lips, a
light brush that sent tingles throughout my soul.
Now THATS what I should have done last time.
Uh huh, I panted. That probably would have convinced me that you liked me.
He laughed and wrapped his arms around me. I love you Scotty.
I love you too Vincent, I said back with a smile.
We both turned to look out at the lights below with our arms around each other. It felt like we were looking out at
a whole world of possibility.
So what do you think about Alexiss plans for the future? I said after a few moments of silence. All of us living
together in London in a years time?
I think it sounds like a great idea, Vincent replied sincerely. She can be roommates with Olive. And you can live
with me.
I blushed. Is this your way of asking me to move in with you?
In a manner of speaking Yes.
My mouth gaped open. What, you mean now?
Well, when we move out of Havensdale next year, Vincent answered calmly. Or you know, now if you want. But
I dont think your Mum could take you leaving her for me...
I thought for a second. Or you could move in with us. Im sure Mum wouldnt mind. She loves you. And you
could pay her some rent from all your gigs.
I dont know, Vincent said, his mouth curving into a smile. Maybe.
He was playing it cool, but I could tell he was secretly thrilled at the idea. He spent every waking moment at mine
anyway. It was like the family home he had always wanted.
Lets think about it later, I said. Come on, we'd better go back down before people start wondering where we
are. Well end up getting locked in the building at this rate!
Sure thing you goody two shoes, Vincent laughed. He took hold of my hand as we walked across the rooftop.

You know what Specs? I cant fucking wait.

For what? I questioned.
Life.
I smiled at him, my heart filling up with love.
Snap.
He brought his hands to my face and kissed me joyously. I rubbed my nose against his in a returning Eskimo
kiss. Then I ran off toward the stairs.
Race you down! Bet you cant catch me!
He chased after me laughing.
Youre fucking on Specs!
We ran back down to our friends, the echoes of our laughter ringing out across the rooftop and into the glorious
depths of the night.

Acknowledgements
A huge thankyou to everyone who helped support me in writing and releasing this book, particularly the following
people:

My Mum, Elizabeth Jerams, for teaching me how to write and for bouncing plot ideas around with me
whilst on our lunch break at work.

My boyfriend Mat for listening to me whenever I get into excitable rambles about the world of writing, for
coming along to conventions with me despite never having read a book in his life and for endlessly
supporting me in any creative endeavour I choose to follow.

My Dad because hes my Dad. He probably wont want to read this, but I know hes proud anyway.

Kendal James for her awesome cover design and many creative ideas which led to the final image. For
more info on her artwork please check out the links below:

www.facebook.com/eyecandybykendaljames
www.etsy.com/shop/kendaljames
@MissKendalJames

My Wattpad follower @pgbetwixt for her original cover concept, which you can view on the Wattpad
version of the story.

Katie Paxton for looking over my final edit with a steely hawk-eye and picking up all the mistakes I
missed.

All of my friends who have read the book, left lovely feedback and cheered words of encouragement to
me from the side-lines.

And most importantly of all, thank you to Wattpad and all of the amazing readers who have helped me to
discover a dream I never knew I had. Every person who has messaged me or commented on my story
with praise and motivation has helped me in such a huge way and given me so much belief in myself. I
have learned so much from you all and taken all of your constructive criticism on board. You have
helped me grow and improve as a writer. You have made me finish something and want to write more. I
am so thankful to have found such a passionate, creative community full of wonderful people. You have
all changed my life. This book is for you.

Becky xx

About The Author

Becky Jerams (born June 26th, 1987) is a writer and musician from Portsmouth, UK. Reasons To Love A Nerd
Like Me is her debut novel and has been featured on the website Wattpad where it has gained many loyal
readers and over two million hits.
She lives with her boyfriend in a little flat near the sea and splits her time between fiction writing, songwriting
sessions, performing acoustic gigs and working in a student art shop. Her songs have been featured
internationally on various shows and adverts, and her stories have been read by thousands of young people
across the world gaining her fans from UK, US, Spain, Philippines, Nigeria, France, Egypt, Jamaica, Australia,
India and beyond.
Becky is currently working on the spin-off sequel to Reasons To Love A Nerd Like Me titled Could You Love An
Apple? which will be available on Kindle in the near future. She hopes to continue writing about the characters
she has created for as long as people want to keep reading about them.