What the actual fuck was up with Mike? Who says that to a person for no reason? Yes I was gonna turn him down but not for no reason; I had my own practice tonight. I checked my phone for the time. 6:30. I put my stuff in my bag and hurried to my car to get to the football field.

The reason I turned Mike down was so I could go to Pom practice. What was Pom? Pom was a dance group, kind of like a spirit squad. They danced at football and basketball games with the cheerleaders and even went to completions. I really just auditioned because I wanted the opportunity to dance and they had open auditions. I had no idea they would pick me to be a part of the squad.

I stepped onto the track with five minutes to spare before practice official started. I quickly stretched and stood amongst the group of girls who were chatting about nothing. I felt so awkward. I didn’t know any of these girls and they didn’t know me. To them I was an outsider.

“Okay ladies, listen up!” All the talking stopped and everyone turned their heads up to see our coach standing on the bleachers. “Welcome to the first day of Pom, ladies.” A few girls cheered while the rest of us just smiled. The coach quieted the group down and continued her speech.

“My name is Coach Williams for those who don’t know and I am here to get you girls ready for the greatest year of your lives.” More cheers. “As you know we are a championship group who has made it to finals in Daytona at NDA this last year and this year we’re finally going to get first place. Now, you’ll have to prove to me that I didn’t let slackers on this team. Is everyone stretched?” The girls nodded. “Alright then, get in a straight line on the 50 and I’ll put you into the opening block.”

We did as we were told and waited for further instruction.

“Hey,” the girl behind said. I looked back at her and smiled slightly. “You’re new aren’t you?”

“Yeah. I’m Kaylee.” She smiled.

“I’m Caitlin. This is my third year on the squad.” Wow, three years…

“So do you have any tips for a newbie?” She chuckled.

“Just do what Williams says. Other than that no but if I think of anything I’ll let you know.”

“Thanks.”

***

After two hours of practice Coach Williams finally released us and reminded us that we had practice tomorrow at noon in the gym. I thought about hanging with Caitlin but by the time I got my stuff together she was gone. Oh well, I didn’t know the chick all that well anyway.

I walked to my car and put my bag in the back seat before getting in. I sent a quick text to Brandon to see where he was at. Like a good brother he texted me back quickly.

With PTV at their spot. Come through

I really didn’t want to, not after what happened this afternoon with Mike but I knew Brandon knew I didn’t have anything to do tonight. I sighed and hated my brother for knowing my schedule as I drove to meet up with the guys.

***

As soon as I walked into the garage I could feel eyes on me. I ignored the gaze and walked to the couch where Brandon was sitting, wishing I could disappear from his burning eyes.

“Sup bro?” He hugged me and nudged Kellin. Kellin smiled at me and I returned it.

“How was practice?” Brandon asked as I sat next to him.

“It was good,” I replied. “I think I’m making a friend.” Brandon nudged me.

“Oh shit Kay, making friends and shit. There you go!” I punched his arm playfully and played with the end of my ponytail.

“Quiet you. I’m a social person when I wanna be.” He chuckled but didn’t say another word on the subject. I looked forward at the guys who were setting up for a song. Tony was tuning his guitar while Jaime and Vic worked with the amps. Mike was behind his kit, looking at me. I tried to ignore it but how could I? His eyes burned a hole in my head. Shake it off Kay.

“Alright ladies and germs,” Vic spoke into the mic, “this is a slower song we just came up with a few days ago. Here for the first time is ‘Wonderless’.” Vic started the song and soon slow drums, an un-amped guitar played by Tony, and Vic’s beautiful voice filled the space. I was taken away by how wonderful this song sounded. It wasn’t what I expected from the band but it seemed to fit them perfectly.

I caught myself swaying to the beat and humming along. I had to resist the urge to pull my phone out and wave it in the air. By the time the song ended Vic looked out at Brandon, Kellin, and me with pleading eyes. I guess he wanted to know what we thought. I beamed at the boys and stood up, going to hug each of them.

Vic chuckled after I had made my way around the band. “So I guess you liked it?” He asked. I smiled wider and hugged him again.

“I loved it Vic. It was so…..perfect.” It was now his turn to smile.

“Thanks Kay, that means a lot.” He then turned to Brandon and Kellin who were still on the couch. “Well?”

Brandon smiled. “I don’t think I’ve ever heard a band sound like that. That shit was amazing.” The boys proceeded to hug each other. Apparently hearing two out of three opinions was good enough for them. I looked in Kellin’s direction to see if he had something to say but I doubt he even noticed.

Kellin was staring hardcore at Vic. It would’ve been unnoticeable since he’s a quiet person and kinda fades into the background but if you paid attention you’d notice. I guess he felt that I was looking at him because he started blushing and looked down. I smiled at him reassuringly and made a mental note to try to talk to him later.

The band ran over Currents Convulsive again because apparently the balance wasn’t right the last time they did it. We listened, gave our usual feedback, and then helped them get the garage back in order. It was around 11 when we all finally left the garage and said our goodbyes.

I walked to my car and was about to get in when I heard my name being called behind me. I turned and saw Mike running toward me.

“What’s up?” I asked. He scratched his arm awkwardly and sighed.

“Look, I just wanted to apologize for earlier…..and for yesterday.” I nodded.

“Is that all?” He looked a little taken back by that. Good.

“Well, I thought maybe I could explain myself.” I debated that in my mind. Yes I would love to know why Mike was such a jerk these last couple of days but did I really want him to blow up at me again if I said the wrong thing? Maybe I should take my chances.

“Come to my place in about half an hour; we can talk then.” He nodded and headed to his car without another word.

After a quick shower and change I sat on my couch and waited for Mike. What were his reasons gonna be? Family things? School? Relationship issues? Firm knocks on my door brought me out of my thoughts. I walked over and let Mike in, gesturing him to take a seat on the couch.

“So, what are your reasons?” I asked, getting straight to the point. He sighed then chuckled.

“Shit, you don’t waste any time do you?” I didn’t respond. He sighed again. “Alright, well…” He ran a hand over his face.

“Please just get to it; it’s really late.” He nodded and tried again.

“My outburst this afternoon was uncalled for and I’m really sorry. I thought you were blowing me off because you didn’t wanna be around me.” What?

“No Mike, that wasn’t it. I had Pom practice which was why I was late. I wasn’t trying to blow you off or have some sort of excuse. If it appeared that way then I’m sorry.”

“You have nothing to apologize for Kay. I was a jerk to you and I’m sorry. I hope we can move on from this.” I smiled.

“Of course Mike.” We got up and hugged before I walked him to the door. Something was still bothering me though.

“Mike?”

“Hm?”

“You never told me why you were acting all weird.” He rubbed the back of his neck hesitantly.

“Don’t worry about it,” he said. I gave him a puzzled look but didn’t question him as it was getting really late.

“Uhh, okay then,” I said as I opened the door. “I’ll see you tomorrow morning then.” He nodded and left the apartment without another word

Notes

Another chapter! Please leave comments, votes, ratings, etc. You guys are awesome! Chapter 5 is coming really soon