Chapter 9: School Week

The next day, my body hummed with electric anticipation. I swung my legs over the side of the bed, my feet padding softly against the wooden floor. Today was another chance to see Hazel, and that thought had me grinning like an idiot.

I dressed, my mind wandering to the prospect of more stolen kisses, and made my way to the kitchen, where Mom was already bustling about. She turned with a smile, her eyes bright with curiosity.

“Someone’s in a good mood this morning,” she noted, sliding a plate of pancakes in front of me. “Big plans today?”

I shrugged, drizzling syrup over the stack. “Just the usual. Heading to school.”

“Oh?” She raised an eyebrow. “And a certain red-haired beauty has nothing to do with this cheeriness?”

A flush crept up my neck. “Maybe.” I took a bite, chewed, and swallowed, unable to wipe the goofy smile off my face. “We’re just friends, but ... I like her.”

Mom’s eyes shone with amusement and something softer, like understanding. “Well, your father always said I wasn’t much of a poker player. It’s written all over your face, sweetheart.”

I laughed, shaking my head. “Yeah, I guess it is.”

The bell above the school entrance gently chimed as I strolled through the door, and the familiar scents and sounds of the bustling hallway enveloped me. It wasn’t long before a burst of red caught my eye—Hazel.

“Hey, you!” she exclaimed, closing the distance between us. “Heading to class?”

“Yeah,” I replied, mirroring her smile. “History with Ms. Parker. I guess we can go together.”

“You got it. Walking there alone isn’t quite as exciting when you’re not by my side.” She nudged my arm playfully, and I felt a tingle where she touched me.

We made our way down the hall, shoulders occasionally brushing, and chatted about our plans for the upcoming weekend. Before we knew it, we had reached our classroom. Ms. Parker stood by the door, her eyes brightening at the sight of us.

“Good morning, you two,” she greeted us warmly. “Care to lend a hand with these books?”

Happy to oblige, we both stepped forward, reaching for the stack of textbooks in her arms. Our fingers brushed, and a spark traveled up my arm, sending a jolt through me, leaving me slightly confused. Hazel must’ve felt it too because she smiled, her eyes locking with mine for a moment.

I sat at my desk, Hazel’s presence beside me a comforting warmth. We listened, occasionally exchanging glances, our shoulders brushing as we turned pages in our books.

Ms. Parker’s voice drew me back to the lesson. “Today, we’re delving into the complex dynamics of medieval courtly love.” A smile played on her lips as she met my eyes. “A world of hidden desires and unspoken passions.”

My heart skipped a beat, and I felt Hazel’s elbow nudge my side. “She’s talking about you, Mr. Daydreamer,” she whispered.

Ms. Parker continued, her tone taking on a playful edge. “It was a time when love was often forbidden, secrets were kept, and unspoken desires simmered beneath the surface.”

I caught her gaze, a silent spark passing between us, and felt my face grow warm.

Hazel’s voice teased me. “Ooo, forbidden love. Sounds like someone’s blushing.”

I tried to keep a straight face, my mind scrambling for a comeback. “Hey, I’m just passionate about history, that’s all.”

She laughed, her eyes twinkling. “Sure, that’s why you space out in class, dreaming of the olden days.”

“Hey now,” I protested, pretending to be offended, “a man can dream, can’t he?”

Leaning closer, Hazel teased, “Tell me, am I off the mark, or is your passion for history matched only by your interest in a certain history teacher?” Her tone was light, brimming with playful curiosity.

I felt a flush creep up my neck. “Hazel, you’re the one I can’t get enough of,” I asserted, trying to steer the conversation back to solid ground.

She flashed me a cheeky smile. “That’s good to know,” she said, her voice laced with a hint of devilry. “Just so we’re clear, I’m all for sharing ... as long as I get a piece of the action too.” Her audacity caught me off guard, and I couldn’t help but wonder where this was headed.

Laughter bubbled from Hazel, and Ms. Parker smiled in our direction, shaking her head fondly. The rest of the class remained oblivious to our exchange, absorbed in their own discussions or note-taking.

I walked out of the classroom, feeling lighter than air. Hazel’s suggestion of chatting later had put a bounce in my step.

“So, I’ll text you later?” she said, her eyes sparkling with laughter as we parted ways.

“Definitely,” I replied, risking a quick glance around to make sure no one was listening in. “Maybe around 10 p.m.? When things are a little more ... quiet.”

Her smile widened, crinkling the corners of her bright green eyes. “Perfect. I’ll be waiting.”

With a subtle wink, she turned and walked away, her red hair shining in the hallway sunlight. My heart raced as I watched her go, the realization of what we were about to do hitting me. This was more than just a late-night chat; it was a secret shared between us, a step closer to something more.

I shook my head, grinning to myself. This was Hazel—my friend, my maybe-something-more. Whatever this was, I was all in.

As I made my way to my next class, my steps felt lighter, and my mind buzzed with possibilities. It was a struggle to focus on anything else for the rest of the day. Every time I checked the clock, the hands seemed to move slower, drawing out the hours until 10 p.m. Finally, the last bell rang, signaling the end of the school day.

Scene 2: Late-Night Texting

By evening, I was buzzing with anticipation. The day’s secret smiles from Hazel fueled my excitement. Settling into my room, I waited for my phone to buzz.

Finally, it did.

Hazel: Hey, stranger. How’s it going?

I grinned, replying quickly.

Me: Hey! Good, just wrapping up some homework. How was your day?

After a brief pause, her response appeared.

Hazel: Pretty good! I did the stuff for Ms. Parker - researching ancient love stories. I might hit the library tomorrow for some medieval romance.

I laughed, recalling our earlier banter.

Me: Oh yeah? Any volunteers for your knight in shining armor?

Hazel: Hmm, maybe. I’d need someone brave enough to slay dragons and daring enough to sneak secret love letters...

Me: Dragons? No problem! As for secret love letters ... I can be very discreet. ;)

Hazel: Good to know, Sir Andy. Very good to know... 😉

My heart raced at her winking face. This was flirting, and I loved it.

Me: Any particular stories you’re interested in? I might know a thing or two about medieval romance, thanks to a certain teacher.

Hazel: Oh really? Do tell, milord...

We texted about schoolwork, our friends, and secret desires.

Our conversation flowed effortlessly, and I found myself growing bolder with each message. I couldn’t help but think about the last picture Hazel had sent me, the one that had left me feeling excited and a little breathless.

Me: Hey, speaking of medieval romance, remember that picture you sent me the other day? It was ... inspiring.

I held my breath, waiting for her response. After a few moments, my phone buzzed.

Hazel: Oh, that one? I’m glad you liked it. ;)

Me: Liked it? I haven’t been able to get it out of my mind.

Hazel: Oh, really? That’s quite the praise.

Me: You have no idea. It was ... distracting.

Hazel: Distracting, huh? In a good way, I hope?

Me: Definitely in a good way.

I could practically hear her laugh through the screen.

Hazel: Well, I’m glad I could provide some ... entertainment.

Me: You definitely did. I’ve been wondering ... do you have any more “distractions” to share?

I bit my lip, waiting for her response. After a moment, my phone buzzed again.

Hazel: Maybe ... but only if you promise to keep them to yourself.

Me: Of course. Your secrets are safe with me.

Hazel: Alright then. Here’s something just for you.

I opened the message, my heart racing. The picture that greeted me was even more tantalizing than the last one. Hazel was naked, her hands strategically placed to hide her nipples. Her round breasts were on full display, and her red hair cascaded over her shoulders like a fiery waterfall. It took my breath away.