Forever Changed

“Whatever,” I said, softening the word with my own smile.

I grabbed my pass for third period from the girl at the desk and headed out. I was tempted to skip, but knew I’d have a better chance of finding Maddon at lunch.

Third period dragged as I watched the minute hand tick by. I was so lost in thought about finding Maddon that it took me almost the whole period to realize I was the subject of a

lot of whispering going on in class. Mrs. Lewis had to call the class to attention several times. I heard Sarah and Jessica mention mine and Maddon’s name before Mrs. Lewis threatened to separate them.

Surprisingly, for the first time in my life, I couldn't care less about the negative gossip surrounding me. All I cared about was finding Maddon and apologizing profusely until he forgave me.

Fourth period was no different, and by the time the bell rang for lunch, I was ready to climb the walls.

“Hey, stranger,” Colton said as I threw my books in my locker. “You never called during break. I thought we were going to hang,” he added as I walked briskly through the halls, searching for Maddon.

“Oh no, I’m sorry, it was such a crazy break,” I said, not slowing my pace.

“So I’ve heard,” he said.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” I said, stopping abruptly. He was the last person I expected crap from.

“Whoa, slay another dragon. I was just making a comment. Believe me, I’m the last person to judge someone for who they want.”

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to snap at you. I’ve just been hearing snippets of trash-talk for the last two hours,” I said, resuming my hunt down the hallway.

“Where are you off to in such a hurry?” he asked, keeping pace with me.

“I’m looking for Maddon so I can apologize. Do you have any idea where he might eat lunch?”

“I think he hangs out in Smokeville,” he said, following me as I veered off down the hall that would take me there.

“You don’t have to come,” I said, surprised he was still following me.

“I have nothing better to do,” he said. “I’m not sure you’ve noticed, but I don’t fit in much with our group of friends anymore.”

“You fit with me,” I said, looking sideways at him. “I mean that.”

“Thanks, girl. I hope you find your guy. I’ll catch you tomorrow,” he said, slowing to a stop.

“I won’t be here. Maddon’s dad goes in front of the judge tomorrow,” I said, also slowing my pace.

“Sheesh, I didn’t know it was that close.”

“It seems like forever truthfully.”

“I’m sorry I wasn’t there more during your bad months,” he said, looking remorseful.

“Hey, don’t sweat it. You had your own drama going on.”

“Doesn’t matter, I don’t like being the kind of friend that leaves their friends high and dry.”

“It’s not like I was much better. Hell, you had to spell it out to me that you were gay,” I said quietly so no one could here. “How’s that for being observant?”

“Okay, so we’re even,” he said, holding out his hand for me to shake.

“Even,” I said, giving him a quick hug before we parted ways. “I’ll see you Wednesday,” I promised as I picked up my pace.

Smokeville was empty except for the normal stoners you would expect to find there. With no time for disappointment, I continued my search until the bell rang for fifth period. For the rest of the day, I looked for Maddon in between classes with no luck. I debated heading over to Drake’s when school let out in case he was there, but I didn’t want to apologize in front of an audience in case he didn’t accept my apology.

Disappointed, I steered my car home.