Hazel and Ruby find friendship in an unexpected way.

Hazel and the Red Head

“About two weeks I think?” “Really? Well, I’d like to invite you to get ice cream with me tomorrow if you’re not busy, as a thank you for helping me.”&nbsp; “Wh- you really wanna get ice cream?&nbsp;With me?!” I asked somewhat of an awkward question. “Yeah, of course I would! You’re very fun to hang out with, you know.” She smiled at me and touched my hand accidentally as she got up from her beanbag. I was blushing hard-&nbsp; “Hey, are you feeling ok? You look a little warm?” She placed her hand on my forehead. “You kinda are. Here, let me go get a thermometer.” She quickly got up and ran to the bathroom before I could argue she came back and placed a thermometer on my forehead.&nbsp; “You’re at 102. Here, why don't you lay down and I can go get my dad, he’s an ER nurse. He can help.” “I-I’m ok I feel fine, just a little warm.” “Just to be safe, ok?” She tucked me into her bed and ran downstairs. I pulled out my phone, my hands trembling.

“I’m kinda hungry…” Koi muttered. &nbsp;“I kinda am toooooo.” Hoops stretched her arms out and yawned.&nbsp; “Me three…” Tristan yawned.&nbsp; “Can we go to Anchors Up then?” Hoops begged. “Yeah I’ve got some money, is everyone else good?” Tristan asked, taking his leather wallet out. &nbsp;“I-I don’t... h-h-have…. any.” Tacita whispered. &nbsp;“Don’t worry I can get you something Tacita.” Tristan reassured her&nbsp; “T-thanks Tristan…I…”&nbsp; “It’s alright, anytime.” We all stood up and headed across the street to Anchors Up, our favorite coffee shop.&nbsp; It was kinda chilly but we found a nice cozy booth to fit us all. &nbsp;“What are ya’ll in the mood for?”&nbsp; Hoops asked while scrolling on her phone.&nbsp; “Umm… hot chocolate…for me please.” Tacita asked.&nbsp;&nbsp; “I’ll have a peach tea please…and a croissant!” I added. &nbsp;After we all recited what we wanted, Tristan went and ordered our stuff. We mostly sat and chatted about next month’s concert until Taylor brought up prom…. &nbsp;“So… have any of you landed a date?”&nbsp; “ “I- errr no…” Koi sighed.&nbsp; Tristan returned with our drinks, my croissant, and a huge basket of fries for us all to share.&nbsp;&nbsp; “The cashier said the waitress will bring us the rest of the food when it’s ready,” he reassured the hungry faces watching the basket of fries like prey.

Our Ring doorbell went off. I sat up at attention.&nbsp;“I think your tutor is here, Ruby!” Mo said, looking at his phone. “Oh kay thanks.” I got up and answered the door. She was standing a few feet away from the door trembling. &nbsp;“It’s umm raining, do you wanna come inside? You look kinda cold, I have a towel if you want?” I offered.&nbsp;She nodded her head.&nbsp; “Wanna… come inside?” I suggested again. &nbsp;“Yeah, sorry!”&nbsp;She walked inside. &nbsp;“You can take your jacket off here and we’ll go to my room.” I helped take her jacket off and hug it up for her. “Wanna go to my room…?” I asked after standing there for a minute.&nbsp; “Gah! Yes sorry, I was just- never mind.” She shook her head.&nbsp; I led her to my room and showed her my homework. “So how does this work… do you do it for me and I just watch or…” I really didn't know what to do.&nbsp; “No, we just talk about what you don't understand&nbsp;and I’ll help you study, or help you have tricks to remember things…. Or whatever you need to get better,” she explained. &nbsp;“Oh ok well I’m struggling with multiple step problems like these.” I took out some of my math homework.

“Naw, fam. I got my friends, we could all&nbsp; just go together!” Hoops exclaimed.&nbsp; “I… I’ m thinking of asking someone…” Tristan said casually. &nbsp;“Ohhh spill!” Hoops encouraged.&nbsp; “Once I actually ask them out I’ll be sure to introduce you two.” Tristan said confidently.&nbsp; “And when are YOU gonna ask Ruby out.”&nbsp; Tristan asked me sarcastically.&nbsp; “Never.” I snapped with a fragile sarcastic confidence.&nbsp; “Oh come on girl, you’ve got to sometime!” Hoops encouraged.&nbsp; “Dude you met her dads? One of them is like… 6’5 and the other one’s like 5’8.” Tristan snickered. &nbsp;“Yeah but he’s a nurse isn’t he? The short one?” Taylor asked. &nbsp;“Yea my mom is his trainee right now. He’s an ER Nurse…” I replied as I took a fry from the basket and ate it.&nbsp; “And the taller one’s real sporty, I heard.” Tacita added. &nbsp;“Must be where she got it from…”. I dreamily sighed.&nbsp; “Excuse me.&nbsp; Here’s the rest of your order.” Our waitress- wait! T-that voice!&nbsp; “Your other waiter’s shift just ended so I’ll be helping you the rest of the morning.” she smiled.

Then I suddenly ran into something… or someone. I fell over backwards and rubbed the back of my head. “Oh s-sorry I didn’t see you there. You alright?”&nbsp; &nbsp;Oh my gosh! It was RUBY! R-ruby Rockwood! Ohhh she’s so pretty. She's on our school’s varsity basketball team. The only girl, but she’s as tough as the rest of the boys on the team.&nbsp; “Err… you ok?”&nbsp;She dusted off her Adidas pants and offered me her hand. I started SWEATING from anxiety yet it was so cold I could see her breath. Her shiny red hair blowing in the cold wind, I shakily took her hand, stood up, and RAN for it! Clearly my friends had seen the whole interaction from across the park.

“Oh cause you can talk, who else was the flusted mess earlier.” I punched Koi.&nbsp; “Ohhh stop it.” Koi crossed his arms stubbornly.&nbsp; “Kayden was it?”&nbsp; I mocked. &nbsp;“Stooop it!” Koi blushed and tried to cover his face with his jet black hair. Koi was my very first friend. I met him in kindergarten and ever since then we’ve always been friends.&nbsp; We stood up for each other all throughout elementary and basically wherever we went but on the first day of high school he started acting weird. After a week of holding his silence, he invited me over and came out to me as gay.&nbsp; He was so scared of losing his best friend so to make him feel better I came out to him as bi and like the good friend I am I stayed the night at his place and we talked about all the cute guys at school. And we got closer if that was possible.&nbsp;&nbsp; Let’s see, I met hoops at Girl Scouts and MAN was THAT just chaotic! Hoops loves the outside so she always has scratches and bruises on her legs from falling so much and we call her hoops cause she always wears these fab giant hoop earrings. They go very nicely with her blond fro and she’s pretty laid back. She can usually be found rocking tall brown leather boots.

&nbsp;“You remember Ruby righ-”&nbsp;&nbsp; “Yes. Ruby Rockwood. Only girl on the varsity basketball team. Ruby Rockwood with her half shaved hair who wears a beanie. Ruby Rockwood with those beautiful green eyes. Ohhh Ruby Rockwood will you take me to the dance?!” he teased. &nbsp;“Her parents just asked me about the tutoring thing!” I start hyperventilating. “Deeeeep breaths hazy deeeeeeeeeeeeeeep breaths!” &nbsp;“What should I say?!” &nbsp;“Hey I mean you’re basically getting payed to hang out with your crush soooooo.”&nbsp; “Good point…. I guess so…”&nbsp; I muttered. I quickly wrote back: “Sure thing. My sessions start at 35 dollars per hour. I’m available 3-7 pm Monday through Wednesday and some Fridays.” and clicked send.&nbsp;

K🐠i&nbsp; (9:14)&nbsp; Does anyone have any extra sheet music? I lost mine C A N D Y_Man (9:14) Yesssss I will bring it to school tomorrow! Kayden (9:14) 😏&nbsp; K🐠i&nbsp; (9:14)&nbsp; ainfiannefubifbqfnfac Taylor&nbsp; (9:14) Ha, ha tristan very funny -.- Kayden (9:14)&nbsp; I was bored…&nbsp; &lt;Name reset&gt;

Chapter 2 ∴∵∴▽~Ruby~△∵∴∵ I looked down at my watch.&nbsp; It read 10:30, Yes! Finally my shift is over. I tipped out the busboys and then hostess, and clocked out but before I left I texted my dad to see if he was off yet

Mo (10:01) I’m on my way back home right now, and &nbsp;you know you don’t have to get me anything… Mo (10:02) Honey I’m driving, I gotta go love you see&nbsp; you at home &lt;3

(You) Ruby (10:01) I bet you didn’t even have dinner, come on &nbsp;you have to let me get you something!&nbsp; ANYTHING! I already know what dad wants

(You) Ruby (10:01) Hey mo, you off yet? I was gonna bring you something, from the Cafe

I had tests left and right according to my schedule. I was only nervous about one of them- Math, Pre Algebra. Though my teacher had taught us many tricks and tips, I couldn't remember them correctly. I sighed, “Was it PEMDAS or was it PEDMAS? Wait or did the order not matter? We just do it right to left… like reading, I think that's right…” I solved a few and was feeling confident until lunch when I was talking about it with my basketball team- &nbsp;“Why does the cafeteria have THE MOST DISGUSTING FOOD.?” Christoff scoffed. I shoved him as the lunch lady served us some… odd soup… I think? She gave him a dirty look as we got our salad stuff and sat down with the rest of the group. &nbsp;“Some test in Miss Alice’s class thoug, huh?” Vlad said slightly annoyed.&nbsp; “I know, Algebra…”&nbsp;Kayden banged his head on the table. “PRE algebra!” I corrected him.&nbsp; “Whatever it’s called… I don’t like it.” Kayden sighed.&nbsp; “Yeah I’m not a fan either, I couldn’t remember if the order mattered and the exponents with all the simplifying I just-” I groaned. “I need a brain break…”&nbsp; “This is a brain break, we’ve got around…” Keaton checked his watch, “10 more minutes to eat.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; “I need to go back to packing my lunch cause this isn’t very appetizing.”&nbsp; “You know what’s not going to be appetizing I is when-”&nbsp; “That's… not the right connotation.”&nbsp; “Whatever, it’s not gonna be pretty when I get those test answers back.” I sighed.

“Oh, you’re the girl from earlier, aren't you?” Ruby smiled.&nbsp; I nodded my head. “That’s me.” I said sheepishly.&nbsp; “I gotta go but nice meeting you again!” she smiled and ran down the block. As she got farther away I felt my face get warm. I ran home warmer than before. and as I approached the door steps to my house I saw Koi-&nbsp; “Hiya Hazel.” He waved a smiled. Once he read my confused expression, he asked, “Don't you remember?” as he nodded towards his fishy duffle bag.&nbsp; “The sleepover…. right! Forgot. Well come on in.” I opened the door for him, and instantly after he and I stepped in Bella greeted him. Bella is my family's St. Bernard pup. She jumped up on him and as he picked her up she started licking his face and sniffing him excitedly. &nbsp;“Stop it! Stop it Bella you’re tickling me!” Koi laughed. &nbsp;I was too busy laughing myself to help him and he was again ambushed by Bella’s puppy kisses.&nbsp; “Ok, Ok Bella!” I took her from him and placed her down as I was doing so Jack ran inside from the backyard.&nbsp; “Hazel, you’re back! Ohhhh you brought your boyyyyyyyfriend!” Jack tugged at Koi’s jacket. Koi started grabbing his bag more intensely.&nbsp; “Jack! Go, play with your friends in the backyard or something, Shoo you little tadpole!”

&nbsp;I shooed him away. “Sorry Koi he does that every time. I asked him to stop…” I sighed. “It’s alright, let’s just go to your room.” He pulled at the collar of his shirt. I led him up our stairs and into my room. It was a mess!” &nbsp;“Ugh, Completely forgot to clean up,” I thought. As I scrambled to clean everything, Koi sat down at my desk. He picked up a paper on the desk. &nbsp;“Math. Uhhh I seriously need to catch up, Geometry is the worst…” Koi groaned. &nbsp;“I tutor now. I could help you out if you want?” I offered cherrily as I finished putting away a few things. &nbsp;“You’d really do that?!” He smiled.&nbsp; “Of course! In fact, I’ll give you the best friend discount. I'll do it for free.” I offered. “You’re a lifesaver Hazel!” He gave me a little hug.&nbsp; “Anything for my best friend.” I smiled. &nbsp;We spent the rest of the day studying and reviewing notes.&nbsp; “Hazel can’t we be doneeeee yet my hand hurts!” Koi dropped the pencil and shook his hand. His enthusiasm had waned. “I can’t feellllllll my hand!” He groaned.&nbsp; “Ok, ok fine but doesn’t it feel good to be all caught up in homework?” I tried cheering him up as we put our stuff away.&nbsp; “I guess so…” &nbsp;“Will hot cocoa cheer you up? Maybe a cheezy Christmas movie? And some popcorn…?” I suggested.&nbsp; He instantly brightened up.

&nbsp;He relaxed a bit after I said this.&nbsp; “Thanks for coming to save us…” a more confident boy said, slightly embarrassed. “Of course,” I replied. “Keep icing that for me ok,” Mo said, looking at the black haired boy.&nbsp; “Alright.&nbsp;Thanks again. I’m Koi, by the way.”he mentioned.&nbsp; At that moment Hazel sat up and took a big breath. “Where am I?!” She exclaimed.&nbsp; “You’re awake Hazy!” Her friends exclaimed unanimously and hugged her. &nbsp;“What happened?” she asked.&nbsp; “Well, after you passed out, your Princess Charming came and gave Jake a piece of her mind!” Candy exclaimed. “He won’t be bothering you guys any time soon, I promise.”&nbsp;

We dashed out to the backyard and made a few baskets. I helped Hazel with dribbling. Thirty minutes went by and then she exclaimed “I gotta go! Gah, sorry Ruby I had fun hanging out but I have to go now bye!” She said as she was grabbing all her things.&nbsp; I opened the door for her- “wait here.” I handed her an umbrella. &nbsp;“Thanks, I'll be sure to bring it back next time.” She smiled sweetly at me.&nbsp;As she left I… I could have sworn I felt something…. Oh well back to makin baskets…

It had been two weeks that I’d been tutoring Ruby and today was our last day so I was sad to see it end. My head had started hurting a little on the way home from school, but I thought it was probably stress. I really didn’t want to miss our session so I drank a big glass of water and tried to forget it. I really didn’t want to let her down.&nbsp; “How long has it been since we’ve started?” Ruby asked me as I was putting everything away at the end of our session

&nbsp;“Oh! I know how to do this stuff, you just need a bit of practice,” she reassured me. Throughout our hour session she walked me through how to solve the problem, how to remember and then I did some on my own. By the end I was getting kinda bored-&nbsp; “Hey, Hazel. can I ask you something?” I asked.&nbsp; “Oh sure what’s up?” She seemed more comfortable now than she was earlier. “Are you afraid of me?΅&nbsp; “Wh-?! No! No, not at all! I’m just shy, that's all…” She sighed. “Well there’s nothing wrong with that, you seem nice- I mean you are nice, I- nevermind. Hey, are you any good at basketball?” I asked mischievously. “I’m not a very athletic person, but I guess we can give it a try, but then I really do need to go home, alright?”&nbsp; “Deal.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

I sighed.&nbsp; Typical of dad to do this. He works a late shift, forgets to pack dinner or just doesn’t have time, and insists I don’t get him anything… I looked at the menu, and read through it. Maybe Dad would have an idea of what Mo wants?

(You) Ruby (10:03) Dad, mo just got off and he said he didn’t want anything even though I know he didn’t pack a lunch yesterday, what should I get him/ what do you want?

Dad (10:04) Of course he did… hmm he likes anything. Get him anything but watch out for his allergies. And what do I want.... Umm I dunno... whatever’s&nbsp;cheepist…

Dad (10:04) … PANCAKES? I don’t care… Pancakes and bacon? Oh that actually sounds really good.

(You) Ruby (10:04) Dad… what do you really want?

“Thanks Ruby…” I said sheepishly. “Alriiiiight let's go in the other roooooom now” Taylor said, pushing everyone out of the room.&nbsp; After they all shuffled out, I sat next to Hazel on the couch.&nbsp; “Umm, Hazel I umm… would you like to go to prom with me?”&nbsp;&nbsp; Next thing I know she’s kissing me, her sweet lips on mine, soft and pillowy.&nbsp; “Yes! Yes, yes, Ruby I’d love to go with you!” I swept her into a hug. “You’re a perfect princess to take to a dance!”

Taylor (9:50) Hazel? Are you ok?... -should… err do you want one of us to come in there? Tristan (9:50) Hazelllll? Are you alright? K🐠i&nbsp; (9:50) She left, and she wasn’t talking about you, I don’t think she really noticed she just asked if you were ok. Are you ok? HOOPS&nbsp; (9:50) Hey girl, you need me to come in there?

(You) Hazel (9:51) No, I’m ok thanks guys...

Group~Chat~4~Band

Hoops (5:50) NOOOO WAY GIRL! C A N D Y_ MAN (5:51) Whaaaaaa?!&nbsp; Tristan (5:51) Might I ask whyyyyy?

(You) Hazel (5:47) GUYS :0 I’M IN RUBY’S &nbsp;ROOM LAYING IN H E R&nbsp; B E D OMG!

Taylor (5:52) What are you gonna do?! Tristan (5:52) &nbsp;You better make a move it’s &nbsp;your last day isn't it?! You have to&nbsp; do something!

(You) Hazel (5:52) I have her number- I’m her&nbsp; friend ^ ^- she’s coming back I gotta &nbsp; go, keep you updated

(You) Hazel (5:51) Uhhhhhh I might have a small fever but I’m fine it’s only a little &nbsp; one.

Dad (10:05) Get home quickly, and be careful, alright?

(You) Ruby (10:05) Pancakes and Bacon got it

I stuffed my phone in my pocket, ordered the food, and paid for it with the cashier.&nbsp;I quickly grabbed my jacket and scarf and headed home in the freezing cold. I hardly ever wear boots or anything cozy for that matter. I like to keep active, all my friends say I’m like my dad because he’s very athletic. Speaking of friends, I suddenly remembered that poor girl from earlier. I was trying to take her order and her face went all red. Did I embarrass her or something? Was it something I said or maybe a look I gave? Nevermind that, I turned down my street, and continued to walk home. There it was, my home.&nbsp;A simple two story house with a pool in the backyard and lot’s of running space. We’re actually near some woods and a nice camping spot. &nbsp;I knocked on our soft wooden door.&nbsp; “It’s unlocked,” my dad shouted from inside. I opened the door and placed my jacket and scarf on our coat hanger.&nbsp; “Hiya Ruby.” Mo greeted me from the couch.&nbsp; “Hi Mo, long night?” I asked as I sat next to him taking my shoes off.&nbsp;

(You) Ruby (10:05) OK dad, be home soon!

I saw all my friends sitting on a quilt, underneath a big tree. I ran over to them and my shoes were getting all wet from the dew on the grass.&nbsp; “Ayyo! Look at the flustered-”&nbsp; Koi started just as he got smacked by Tristan.&nbsp; “What happened doll?” Taylor asked as I sat down. I sighed and thought it was no use lying to them… &nbsp;“I ran into Ruby on the way over here…”&nbsp; &nbsp;“No, FREAKING WAY! Squeeeeeee!” Candy started to ‘fangirl’ “Omg what did you say?!”&nbsp; She continued. &nbsp;“N-nothing I just ran into her like the klutz I am… and she helped me up and I RAN fo-” Then out of nowhere a basketball landed right in the center of our blanket.&nbsp; “Where’d that come from?!” Candy exclaimed. ¨Who’s basketball?” Koi asked after grabbing it and examining it in his lap. Then someone walked up behind us. Koi heard the crunching of leaves behind him and he tightly clutched the basketball and looked behind him nervously.. &nbsp;“Err… can I have our… basketball back?” a boy from our school who I believe was- wait oh no… his name was Kayden and Koi… yes Koi was a flustered MESS around him. Koi’s eye twitched and he panicked and gave it to Tristan. Tristan gave Kayden a dirty look and threw him the ball roughly. Kayden then walked away not before rolling his eyes at Tristan. &nbsp;“...Moving on…” Taylor coughed.&nbsp; I looked over at Koi, and he scooted over. “So, what exactly happened earlier?” He asked trying not to burst out laughing.&nbsp;

HOOPS (9:10) Is everyone on their wayyy~? C A N D Y_ Man (9:10) I burnt my bagel T^T, but yes I’m omw! Taylor (9:11) I’m here.&nbsp;I see you.&nbsp;I’m over here hoops! HOOPS! HOOPS (9:11)&nbsp; Oh I c ya, c’mere!

Hazel (9:10) Yeah I’m on my way!

Taylor (9:11) I’m here.&nbsp;I see you.&nbsp;I’m over here hoops! HOOPS! HOOPS (9:11)&nbsp; Oh I c ya, c’mere! K🐠i (9:12) Oh my cod I’m so sorry I lost one of my shoes and I had to spend like ten minutes trying to find it! &gt;~&lt; I’m on my way rn! Taylor (9:12) Don’t stress it only me and Hoots are here rn *hoops

Hazel (9:12) Where is Tristan?

“If you’re gonna pass out can you do it like… not here? I’m in a ranked match and I don't wanna lose my rank by panicking over you.” Jack teased. “Oh I’m sorry for messing up your perrrrrfect stats.” I said dramatically. “They ARE perfect. Anyway, what did she say?” “Does it matter what she said? She talked to me!” I blushed. “Just tell me.” Jack groaned. “We were talking about meeting up tomorrow.” My face grew hotter as I walked out of the room.&nbsp; I did my homework then proceeded to play with my little brother for the rest of the afternoon until mom came home from work.&nbsp; We ate dinner, played some more and then I went to bed still worried I’d ruin my tutoring lessons with Ruby tomorrow. The next school day went by too fast and soon enough I was standing in front of Ruby’s door debating if I should actually go in or not.

Maxwell R. (4:30) &nbsp;I’m interested in signing up my&nbsp; daughter. I just need someone&nbsp; who can help her with math.&nbsp; I think you cover Pre-Algebra? I was given your number by Milo who works with your mom. I can &nbsp;send you my daughter’s contact information.&nbsp; Her name is Ruby.&nbsp; Would you be interested in tutoring her? Maxwell R. (4:31) Sure. &lt;User Maxwell R. shared contact&gt;

(You) Hazel (4:30) Sure thing my sessions start at&nbsp; Around $35 per hour. I’m unavailable holidays but normally I’m available 3-7 pm Monday through Wednesday and some&nbsp; Fridays.

(you) Hazel (4:31) I’d be happy to! Just link the money&nbsp; to my paypal ^ ^ and if you wouldn’t &nbsp;mind could you please just take this little review for my services thank you!

“It’s not gonna kill you.” Barbara chuckled.&nbsp; “Maybe not but I’m definitely going to be missing some practices.”&nbsp; “Well you can always sneak out.” Keaton suggested with a grin. “If I were to get caught I’d get in a lot of trouble!” I worried. “You could get a tutor?” Vlad encouraged. “Oh please, tutoring seems so boring…” I tapped my fingers on the lunch table anxiously. The rest of my classes dragged on. Even P.E. wasn’t nearly as fun as it usually is but I tried my best to just let it go. I walked home and started on homework. Today was my day off. I only work a couple hours on the weekends, thankfully. I then proceeded to practice shooting hoops in the backyard for a bit, and went on with my normal day. The next morning started like normal. I ate breakfast and got on the bus It wasn’t until I stepped into Miss Alice’s class that I had a sense of panic again.

He stepped out of the room and called my mom. Ruby sat down next to me, “So you’re gonna stay over for a bit if your mom’s cool with it?”&nbsp; “I guess so.”&nbsp; “Well, I have some card games and we can watch a movie later if you want.” “Ok. Thank you for being so nice.” I smiled at her.

As she smiled at me I had a funny feeling, like butterflies having a party&nbsp;in my stomach. She looked at me straight in the face and I looked back. She looked down blushing and at that moment I realized- “D-do you like me?! Like… like, like me?!” I exclaimed standing up.&nbsp; She turned even more red- “I-I-I… Ikindasortado. I-I-Ithink You're Really Prettyandtoughandcool!” she blurted out and looked back at me in fear.&nbsp; “I-”&nbsp; “Please don't embarrass me tomorrow at school and -say this to anyone.” she said worriedly. &nbsp;“Embarass you? Why would I do that…?”&nbsp;

Taylor was also a pretty old friend of mine, they are like the mom friend who stands up for everyone and makes sense of our arguments. Another bit of info on them is that they’re gender fluid, and THANKFULLY they don’t get offended easily about that kinda thing.&nbsp; Tacita was always kinda quiet.&nbsp; Last year she joined the band.&nbsp; Koi and I met her when he noticed her carrying her flute and struck up a conversation which was completely shocking because they are both pretty quiet.&nbsp; Maybe that’s why they get along so well. Tristan… let me think. Tristan also joined our little ‘band’ last year. Ever heard of a cello? Yeah Tristan’s really good at it. He likes to mess around but the thing is we never know when he’s serious… though he hardly is. He’s pretty full of himself and says ‘I’m pan 'cause I’m just that good lookin and the world would be missing out if I wasn’t’. Yep, that’s Tristan for you… you gotta love him for it though he’s a really good friend and he’s really loyal…

“You do?! You really do?!” she exclaimed. I kissed her hand and giggled. &nbsp;“Yes I really do…”&nbsp; We sorta just sat there for a bit. I broke the silence again. “Would you like to be my girlfriend?” I finally asked. “Ruby?! Ruby Rockwood be my girlfriend?! Oh my gosh I’d love to!” she sat up and gave me a squeeze. &nbsp;“Lay down!” I insisted. “The more you rest, the sooner you get better.”&nbsp;

She went downstairs to get me some tea. After an hour, my temperature had gone down and my phone was buzzing all of a sudden. I answered it. It was Hoops. She sounded like she was running somewhere. &nbsp;“Hazel you gotta come quick, come to our location it’s really important- Stop it!” it sounded like there was shouting.&nbsp; “Hoops?! What’s going on?!” I asked worriedly. &nbsp;“There’s this boy- listen we need you now! I wouldn't come and get you if it wasn't important come no-” she cut off. I started to worry.I got up out of her bed and was putting my shoes on.&nbsp; “Hey Hazel how are you- what are you doing? You might feel better but you might not be 100% better.”&nbsp; “Ruby this is really important I’m sorry I have to go-”&nbsp;

RUBY! &nbsp;No, no, nooooo! I completely forgot she worked here. NO. I could feel the hot rush of blood flooding my cheeks.&nbsp;I was sure everyone could read it on my face. “Err … she alright?” Ruby asked. “She’s fine didn’t have breakfast.” Tristan said casually.&nbsp; “S-scuse me, I-I’ll be right back…” I said awkwardly as looked down and shuffled out of the booth and ran to the bathroom. I felt her eyes looking at my back as I rushed past tables. As I walked in the bathroom, I made sure no one was there. I looked at myself in the mirror. I still looked a little sleepy and my hair was kinda messy. I took a paper towel from the dispenser, got it a little wet and cooled my face down. Fun fact about me: I have a little bit of social anxiety. It means school assemblies are a big no for me, and I can’t speak in front of people and I’m not too keen on small tight spaces. I like school I really do it’s just… I dunno I feel people looking at me and I start to think they’re judging me… and then I can’t focus and I get all anxious… but I’ve been getting better at calming down though. And when I’m on stage playing my violin, the anxiety becomes manageable as I get super focused on what I’m playing. And the music helps. Backstage though, it’s pure torture. My phone vibrated, I checked and everyone was messaging me.

“She looked at me.” I murmured.&nbsp; “Mumbler,” Tristan coughed. “Ruby looked at me.” my face started burning up. “She’s totally into you Hazel! You should go talk to her!” Hoops said with a nudge. “Yeah right like I’d ever let myself get trapped in a room with her…” I scoffed. After lunch we had Spanish, P.E., and then I took the bus home. I took a sigh as I stepped inside my house and tossed my backpack by the couch.&nbsp; “That rough, huh?&nbsp;my little brother asked from the couch as he was playing video games.&nbsp; “No I’m just tired, whatcha playin?” I asked as I sat down next to him. &nbsp;“Splatoon, wanna play with?” My phone buzzed.&nbsp; “Sure hang on.” I opened my phone and I had gotten an e-mail from some user by- “WHAT?!-” I exclaimed. “What what?” Jack repeated.&nbsp; “This cannot be happening!” I panicked. &nbsp;“What's happening?! Tell me!” He demanded.

“I don’t believe it I got a C-,” I groaned as I sat down next to my friends at lunch.&nbsp; “So they ground you. So what?&nbsp; You still have your fancy backyard you can practice in and you can always do what Keaton said,” Chris chimed in.&nbsp; “Hey you guys know the band group, they sit like three tables behind us.”&nbsp; “Yeah? What about them?” I asked.&nbsp;&nbsp; “You know the black haired kid?” he continued. “I think so.” we all agreed. “He was staring at me all through history.” “He’s a little dorky, isn’t he? All he needs is a pair of glasses.” Mark chuckled. “He probably didn’t mean anything by it.” I kicked Mark from behind the table. He had an odd habit of saying remarks like that for some reason. I turned my head and looked over at the table Kayden was referring to, and a brown haired girl looked back at me. It was Hazel. I smiled and waved at her and she just hid her face. I was slightly taken aback. Was she afraid of me?

Tristan&nbsp; (9:15) …. what... H a p p e n e d? Hoops (9;15) Umm idk? Maybe she… idk? Taylor (9:16) What happened? Tristan&nbsp; (9:16) Why you acting all flustered hazy? K🐠i&nbsp; (9:17)&nbsp; Tristan! S-stop it!

(you) Hazel (9:15) I-I’m fine...

(You) Hazel (9:16) I-I’ll explain when I get there…

___________ l&nbsp;*&nbsp;*&nbsp;*&nbsp;*&nbsp;* l ---------------l &nbsp;&nbsp;l&nbsp;/ l/ .

“Hazel, eat something before you go…”&nbsp; My mother insisted. &nbsp;“Ok, ok… ummm I’ll have a parfait&nbsp; I guess!” Then suddenly my brother came bolting through the front door.&nbsp; “Diddddd someone say parfait?”&nbsp; “Back so soon Jack?” Mom gave me a look that I knew oh too well then walked to the back yard with her coffee.&nbsp; “Welllll where is it Hazeyyyyy?”&nbsp; “It’s in the fridge somewhere. Find it and you can keep it all to yourself. I gotta meet up with my friends anyway…” Jack nodded in approval and ran over to the fridge as I grabbed my backpack again and this time I dashed down our block. I started to slow down. I was only about 5 minutes away. Then I pulled out my phone and saw Hoops had texted me.

Ruby and her dad walked into the room. He smiled at me.He had a little bag of, I’m assuming, nurse… trinkets? &nbsp;“Hello I’m Ruby’s dad- one of them anyway. Ruby said you have a temperature. Do you feel alright?” He put his head on my forehead. &nbsp;“Yeah I feel fine. Just warm.&nbsp;And a little tired. But I’m ok to go back home.” Wha?! Why did I say that! I could have stayed at her house for a while with her on a stormy evening.&nbsp;We could have had so much time to get close. Ugh! “Well do you have someone there to watch you?” he asked.&nbsp; “Well my mom is at work right now-”&nbsp; “Oh, that’s right. You’re Melody’s daughter.” he seemed slightly surprised. “Yeah.”&nbsp; “Oh, yeah. Your mom is covering for me late today. Is your dad home?”&nbsp; “Umm no. He’s away on a business trip right now.” “I’ll give her a call and ask if you can stay here just while you get better.” “Oh. Ok. thanks.” I managed to get out.

My hands started shaking. I had her number! I HAD RUBY ROCKWOOD’S NUMBER!&nbsp; I immediately got a message from her-I nervously checked it.

Ruby (4:31) Hello- is this the right number?&nbsp; Is this the tutor?

(You) Hazel (4:38) Yeah ^ ^

Ruby (4:37) Hazel?! Wait are you that&nbsp; girl from school?

(You) Hazel (4:37) U-ummm yeah hello ^ ^

Ruby (4:38)&nbsp; Yeah- you have brown hair and&nbsp; hazel eyes right? Hence your name&nbsp; then I guess right? lol

(you) Hazel (4:38) Ummm yeah, wait&nbsp; you know me?

Ruby (4:39) So we have a meeting tomorrow after &nbsp;school right? My dad sent you the &nbsp;schedule right?

Hazel (4:39) No not yet I don’t think

Ruby (4:40)&nbsp; I gotta go sorry but I look forward to tomorrow&nbsp; ^ ^ bye

Chapter 1 Hazel “Hazel…. Hazel it’s almost nine…”&nbsp; &nbsp;“Nooo.”&nbsp;I tightly clutched my blankets. “Don’t you have a meeting with your club at nine fifteen? Maybe I’ve got my days mixed up.”&nbsp; “Gah! Mom, why didn’t you wake me up earlier?! I gotta go, I gotta GO!” I exclaimed as I jumped out of bed quickly, got dressed and packed all my stuff in my nice big backpack.&nbsp;Today was Sunday and every Sunday at 9:15 we went out to Greyson Park.&nbsp;And by “we” I mean Hoops, Candy, Bex, Tacita, Talor, Koi, Trista and myself. We’re in a band together, come to think about it- Oh there’s no time! I thought to myself as I grabbed my water bottle off the kitchen island and ran out the door. I then stopped myself realizing it was only…&nbsp; “8:45!” I exclaimed as I looked at the old clock that was just above our kitchen island. “Mom, why’d you try to give me a heart attack? I thought I was gonna be late!” I said as I walked back inside and set my backpack down.

“Do you have the good kind?!&nbsp; “Only the best.” I giggled as we walked down the stairs. I got a bag of popcorn out and placed it in the microwave. Then, I proceeded to put some milk into our mini saucer and turned on the stove. After a few minutes, I took the popcorn out, opened the bag and poured it out. The buttery smell filled the kitchen and really set the movie theater vibe. Koi and I mostly just chilled for the rest of the day watching movies. My mom came home at around ten and that's when me and Koi started to get ready for bed. We brushed our teeth, changed into our pjs, and geeked out on the latest episode of our favorite baking show.&nbsp; “You ready to go back to school tomorrow?” I asked. &nbsp;“Yay…” he returned with fake enthusiasm.&nbsp; “You brought the clothes for school tomorrow right? And your P.E clothes?” I asked. &nbsp;“Yes, yes I remembered,” he answered sleepily falling asleep.

“It is, why?” My dad confirmed. &nbsp;“Shoot, shoot, shoot! Oh today’s Vlad’s birthday, I have to go.¨ I was supposed to bring cookies. It starts in 15 minutes noooo!” “Where is it?” Mo asked. &nbsp;“It’s at Chris’s house, I gotta go, I promised them I’d be there!” &nbsp;“Wanna ride?” Dad asked.&nbsp; “Umm… no it’s ok I think if I run I’ll make it… just barely.” I stood up, ran to the door and wrestled my jacket and scarf on. “I’ll be back at around 3. Ok? Ok! Bye!”&nbsp; I booked it to Chris's house hoping I wouldn’t be too late. I was too busy thinking about what I hadn’t done for the party when smack! I ran straight into someone, I fell over backwards but caught myself at the last second.&nbsp; “Shoot I’m sorry I didn’t see you there, I-I’ve gotta be somewhere!” I stood up and saw the same girl from earlier.&nbsp; Wasn't this the same girl I knocked over on my way to work? I started to realize it was the same girl who ran to the bathroom when I served her table at Anchors Up?&nbsp; “Oh… it’s you!” Her purple eyes went big. “Err sorry did I scare you?” I took her hand and helped her stand up. Her hand started to feel boiling hot. “Are you… ok?” &nbsp;“Y-yes I-I-I’m ok.” She stuttered as she pushed some of her brown hair behind her ear. &nbsp;“What’s your name?” I asked. &nbsp;“m-m-me? Umm… My name’s Hazel…”

“Why should I, little girl?” he chuckled.&nbsp; “Cause he’s my friend, and cause it’s not right to hurt people-”&nbsp; “Bad things happen everyday, little girl. That’s just the way the world goes.” “Just cause something’s going on with you doesn't mean you have to take it out on others.” “You don’t even know me!”&nbsp; “Yes I do, I'm Hazel, Ruby’s tutor I’m the one separating you.” he dropped Koi and turned to look at me. It was jake he was much taller than me and much stronger than me. He started charging at me. I was able to doge him and I ran up next to Koi. “Stop her!” Jake snapped.&nbsp; “U-uhhh jake we’ve kinda-” While he was distracted Hoops stepped on his foot and he instantly let go of her and Hoops hugged me.&nbsp; “I knew you’d come girl!”&nbsp; “Koi are you ok? Koi?!” I shook him, he was unconscious.&nbsp;

“What is it?” She seemed a little concerned. “I can’t tell you. I’m sorry.” I sighed looking down in shame. “Oh… umm alright. Bye.” &nbsp;She seemed a little hurt and I felt awful running past her to go outside. I looked to my phone to guide me through the thick musky fog. They were at the school! I better not waste any time- So I booked it there. They were in a dark cold musty and damp alley. I sheepishly walked down it and then I heard shouts and the sound of flesh hitting flesh. I peeked my head around the corner and then I saw it. There was some guy holding Koi against a wall punching him! And his little buddies were holding the rest of my friends back. I recognised these people, they were all members of the basketball team! I may not be athletic but I have very good reflexes and I’m quite limber. I stepped out from the corner. “Put him down!” I shouted at the boy holding Koi.

“Forget about the other ones, just grab the brunette!” he angrily yelled.&nbsp; The other three let go of Candy, Taylor and Tristan and started charging at me. My friends tried to keep them off me but Jake was able to grab me and he shoved me against a wall and I started wheezing. “G-get off me!” I said between breaths.&nbsp; I heard my friends yelling at him to let me go and leave me alone and then I think I blacked out.&nbsp;

“Explain what happened again?”&nbsp; “Well your friend Ja-” started a black haired boy. “Jake is no longer my friend after what he did today. I decided to quit the team after that.” “Oh… Jake just came up to me after school. At first he threatened me about my math homework, then he just started pushing me and punching me…” he sighed. “You don’t listen to anything he says ok, he was just angry that I stopped hanging out with him it’s not your fault its his issue ok.” I assured him.

“You told me to wake you up early so I did.&nbsp; Plus you need to eat.&nbsp; I’m sure all of your friends are eating.”&nbsp; “B-but… I’m not hungry.” I sighed. My mother walked into the living room and sighed as she gave me a tired look. &nbsp;“You had to work late last night again?! I don’t see why.&nbsp; They have other nurses don’t they?!” My mom worked at Grayson hospital only a few blocks away.&nbsp; “Yes but… I’m under someone else’s wing. I'm still in training and I need to be patient. I’m sure I’ll get more workable hours once they officially say I’m ready… and the man I’m studying under is very kind. If I didn’t work last night he would have been there all night. I just helped him move some stuff from room to room.”&nbsp; “... Is Jack still sleeping in?”&nbsp; “No… he's playing with Lily...and the ‘neighbors’.” My mom said the last part intensely. The Garcias were the kind of people who would never stop with the fireworks on the Fourth of July and more than once they woke up the whole block with their loud country music. I was surprised they weren’t blasting their Luke Bryan right now… &nbsp;