34.  Chaotic Semester? Take 1

September

Days Later

Higher Heights Boarding School

"Take your seats everyone! We're about to begin. This is your last English class of your senior year so no slacking off please."

This is why I said things would be interesting. I already knew the outcome of signing up for this class beforehand but I didn't give a shit because I was doing it to be with Lilah.

The terror and pure agony on Lilah's face is priceless as she reluctantly sits next to me while depositing her book-bag on the floor next to her chair. If anything, I didn't tell her what I already knew solely to see this mortified expression on her face.

"This is not happening. This is...it's...I was sure that they wouldn't be in this class with me."

"It's the last elective class you have to take before graduation right? Any seniors could end up in an elective course with you despite their major. English is universal." I whisper to Lilah, ignoring our professor who's writing up the chapters we'll be covering this term on the blackboard.

"But Justin..." Lilah whispers back in slight panic, her vision drifting past me to a few seating rows over. I follow her line of sight and smile smugly when I notice Ethan and Ryan staring back at us.

"Justin! Justin! What's going on?"

Rolling my eyes, I ignore Vick when I hear him calling out to me at the back in a harsh whisper. I forgot they set up shop in the back of the classroom. It's finally begun huh? This crazy ass semester I was mostly but not completely looking forward to.

I was kind of hoping headmaster Williams would reject this idea since it's obviously going to make his school chaotic, but he was all for it.

Life at ‘Higher Heights' boarding school; who would have thought that someone like me, a professional music artist and actor, would end up having such a drastic life alteration? But I've gotten used to it. I'm happy that I'm back here with my favorite girl. As long as I've got Lilah nothing else about this school really concerns me. That includes the camera crew following us around and Vick's incessant beckoning.

Grunting, I whip my head around to look at him with a harsh scowl on my face.

"What Vick? Shut up; we're in the middle of class." I reply in a whisper.

"Who are they? They keep staring at you and Delilah." Vick states, pointing to Ethan and Ryan. He has a curious look in his eyes and I just know he's probably going to track those jerks down at some point to ask questions.

But are you kidding me? Practically the entire class is staring at us. How can he tell that we know those jerks? Well, that's Vick for you. When he's on the job, it's rare for him to miss anything like a reaction, expression or any subtle hint about the lives he's documenting.  He's dangerous. We need to be very careful when around him. He must have been paying attention to Lilah's mini breakdown and staring contest.

I groan, about to respond but the professor interrupts us.

"Whatever." I mutter, showing Vick my middle finger as a sign to leave me alone, which earns me a few chuckles and giggles from some of the students in the class before everyone quiets down and gets pulled into the lecture.

**

"I couldn't concentrate at all in class today. From finding out Ethan and Ryan was in my class to Vick and his camera crew." Lilah sighs heavily as we walk side by side towards the gymnasium where I have basketball practice right now.

"I know but try not to worry about it and don't make it so obvious that we have a serious issue with them because of you know who..." I whisper to Lilah, referring to Vick as I grip her waist to pull her closer to me. We continue walking briskly, ignoring the chorus of footsteps and murmurs behind us.

I d0n't think I like this setup very much. I even refused to introduce Lilah properly to the camera crew when she asked. I simply stated that she didn't need to know them at all. She didn't fight me on it, but I knew she simply wanted to at least put names to the faces that were so rudely invading her privacy. Maybe I'm being a little too protective? I certainly don't want it to be read the wrong way.

The moment Lilah and I walk through the doors of the gymnasium, the basketball team and cheerleaders come into view.

I hear Sandra and Michelle call out to Lilah from their cheerleading circle and she quickly moves away from me to go over to them and say hi. I smile and give them a quick wave when they shout a greeting my way, my eyes following the camera guy who pulls away from his team to follow Lilah while the rest of the crew stay with me.

Vick takes this opportunity to catch up to me when my steps slow down, my vision still cast towards the cheerleaders, noting Sandra and Michelle's annoyed glares when the camera guy begins circling them, taking shots from different angles.

"Is it really necessary to follow Lilah when she's not with me?" I question, finally breaking my vision to glare at Vick who's scribbling on his clipboard as he walks with me.

"She's your girlfriend right? Even if the two of you have yet to admit it one hundred percent to the public. That makes her a celebrity second in status after you by association. She'll be fine. She's dealing well from what I can see."

My brows crease into a deep frown as I study the side of Vick's face, his auburn and gray streaked sideburns pissing me off for some reason. He's in his forties, he's about my height and he's pretty fit for his age. But, I just don't like the guy. I've had experiences with him in the past to know he will not hesitate to fuck you over and air your entire dirty laundry if he got his hands on it. He's the type who will do what he has to for his job to satisfy the audience. He's that type of person in the industry.

"Vick, tell me the truth. Why did you sign up for this job?  I know my manager Johnny didn't ask you to do it because he knows we don't see eye to eye and this isn't your usual high scale celebrity gig so why?"

Pausing his scribbling, Vick locks eyes with me, his orbs full of wonder and intrigue...shit, that guy.

"It may not be my usual gig. But, if you were keeping up with the media Justin you'd realize you guys are a hot topic right now. From the way you ended up at this strict mysterious boarding school that's damn near impossible to get into even with amazing grades, to the mystery behind you and Lilah and this relationship you all have going. The world is going crazy over this...over you. You're back on top my friend. Or do you not miss your glory days?" Vick questions, giving me a knowing grin.

As if buddy. "So it's all about the now, the hype and the money. Got ya." I summarize and Vick laughs loudly.

"Don't worry Justin. I'm only doing my job." He replies.

That's what I'm afraid of idiot.

He pats me on the shoulder before signaling the camera crew to follow him as they begin to set up around the court to film my basketball practice.

I chance another quick glance in Lilah, Sandra and Michelle's direction before I take off into the locker rooms to quickly get changed and head out on the court since some of the players are already warming up.

Our next upcoming game will have NBA scouts there so we've pretty much been hitting it hard the moment we came back this semester. I'm not complaining though. It's fun and a once in a lifetime experience for me, so I'm taking it with stride.

A few minutes later, I'm fully changed into my basketball gear and stuffing my uniform into my locker when Ethan and two of his friends come traipsing in talking and laughing loud and obnoxiously.

I ignore them for the most part and they do the same with me as I grab my face towel and quickly sit on the bench to tie up my sneakers.

"Dude you're so getting drafted for the NBA after this game we have coming up." One of the guys says.

"Hmm, I wouldn't be so sure yet, but according to my dad it's a sure thing." Ethan replies.

Spare me please. I'd really like to meet Ethan's dad one day. I'm guessing he's probably ten times worse than his son. I'd also like to sucker punch him but I doubt I'd get away with that. I still can't believe what they've put Lilah and her family through. It's sad how evil some people can be.

"Shit man, if your dad says it's a sure thing, then it probably is. Who knows what that guy has up his sleeve?" The same guy says again.

"I agree. Your dad scares me dude. He's dangerous." Their other friend finally voices.

"Ha, ok, chill out. I know my old man is bad but seriously, talking about it only makes things worse." Ethan chuckles nervously, quickly squashing their conversation, no doubt because I'm right in earshot range.

I shake my head, standing up and slamming my locker shut, getting ready to leave.

"Alright, we're heading out." "We'll see you on the court." Ethan's friends state before they exit the locker rooms leaving me and Ethan alone.

Ah, that's my cue.

Turning around on my feet, I proceed to leave but not before Ethan's voice stops me.

"Just so you know, I have no intention of giving you and Delilah shit this semester Timberlake. My mind's focused on bigger matters now with graduation around the corner. I may not like what's going on, but it's not my place to get involved considering Delilah and my history.  I don't know much about what's going on with you guys but I did try to put our past to rest. I did apologize and did everything I could to get my dad off her family's back. So, hopefully, what I did helped even if it will never be enough." Ethan explains, releasing a sigh.

I whip around to face him in that instant, giving him a harsh glare.

"You're right. It's not enough. Nothing you say or do will ever be enough or erase what's already been done. If you're saying you plan to leave Lilah alone from now on, then that's the best course of action." I state.

"Leave her alone from now on?" Ethan voices with an askance look on his face. "Right. Of, of course."

You're not convincing asshole. Just what will it take to get rid of you for good? Homicide is clearly off the list. I won't risk being separated from Lilah. Ok, that's too harsh, but still, I'm hoping once they graduate it will all be over. By then, Ethan should be caught up in his basketball career and have no time left for Lilah or his past with her.

"I really don't like you Ethan." I finally admit.

"You're not my favorite person either Timberlake." He retorts.

"Actually, I really want to beat the shit out of you, but that would cause too much trouble, especially after the last time when coach ripped me a new one." I divulge.

"I can't have any more misdemeanor acts on my record else I won't get drafted." Ethan points out.

"So we're at an agreement. We're to stay away from each other to prevent any trouble. Because the next time, I will not be this calm or be using words to get my point across."

Ethan chuckles wryly in response, clearly pissed off as he yanks his jersey out of his locker with brute force.

"Right. I think we're done here." He tells me and I smirk, about to leave, but not before I notice a few items tumbling out of his locker with his jersey.

Slight shock flashes across Ethan's face as he leans down and quickly picks up the items that fell out of his locker. I frown deeply, studying him as he stuffs them back into his locker quickly before slamming it shut and locking it.

He turns to look at me with a blank expression on his face before letting out a low grunt as he brushes past me and storms out of the locker rooms in record speed.

I remain in place, staring at his locker as a million and one thoughts begin swirling in my mind. I know what I saw and I know the reaction I saw on Ethan's face when he noticed what fell out of his locker. It looked like he was surprised, like he didn't know that stuff was in there...almost like someone put it in there without his knowledge. I could be wrong, but I'm curious...and now, I want to know the contents of that item.  Unfortunately, in order to accomplish that, I'd first have to break into his locker.

There's no time now though. I have get out on the court because I have practice. But afterwards...maybe...possibly...we'll see.

**

Later

"Great practice guys! That's it for today. Be here tomorrow same time."

Coach Lambert dismisses the team and everyone quickly heads into the locker rooms to get changed. I linger behind, making my way over to Lilah, Sandra and Michelle who went to sit in the bleachers after cheerleading practice was over to watch the team.

"Hey Ladies." I greet them with a smile, rooting off my soaked jersey to remain in just my basketball shorts. I grip my towel and quickly wipe the sweat off my face and chest, chuckling to myself when I notice Lilah blush and look away from me. I love how she can get shy like that in front of me still. It never gets old.

"You get better every time we watch you play Justin." Sandra points out.

"Yup you do." Michelle agrees and I smile bashfully.

"You all are just saying that." I reply, laughing.

"It's true." Lilah affirms and I lock eyes with her, studying her expressions. She bows her head, fiddling with her nails and I bust out laughing again.

"Well, thanks."

"Oh, because Lilah agrees you believe us now huh?" Sandra teases and I shrug, grinning brightly.

"Besides that, how can you all deal with this camera thing? Delilah was updating us earlier on what's been going on with you guys. It's crazy." Michelle voices.

I nod in agreement, clearing my throat before I respond. "Actually it was all my label and manager. I didn't have much say in the matter and that hardly ever happens these days. I think they're really peeved over the fact that I'm stuck here not making any music, movies or being active in my career."

"It's always about the money huh?" Sandra points out, shaking her head.

"It's the industry. If you can't handle it, this business will easily destroy you. I don't mind too much since Lilah's ok with it." I explain, keeping my vision on her.

"Well, I hope things work out. You guys' summer wasn't too crazy and this is our last semester so soon it will all be over. Just bare with it." Sandra adds in and I smile, her optimism lifting my spirits.

If only life was that simple huh?

"Alright. I'm gonna quickly change then head back out here. Lilah, you'll wait for me won't you?"

"Sure." She quickly replies.

"We'll keep her company until you come back." Michelle pipes in and I mutter a quick ‘thanks' before taking off to the locker rooms to change when I notice most of the team already heading out.

When I get in there it's practically deserted. Damn, those guys don't waste any time to head out after practice. I hear a few of the showers running on the other side and decide to grab my things out of my locker to change. I'll take a shower back at my place.  I'm feeling lazy. Plus, I haven't seen Ethan leave yet so he's probably one of those in here using the showers. I'm definitely not in the mood to see him again before I leave here.

I pull out a fresh t-shirt and quickly throw it on before gathering the rest of my things and slamming my locker shut. I take a quick glance at my surroundings, pausing when I notice a few of the lockers slightly open...probably of the players using the showers right now. I walk over to them, looking around cautiously as I do so. My orbs scan the names above each locker until they end up on Landing...Ethan's last name.

I shouldn't do this, but after what happened earlier I'm so fucking curious I can't seem to walk away. Vick called it a day after our practice so he's nowhere around now to catch this. Hesitantly, I slowly push Ethan's locker open and look inside, my blues quickly scanning the contents. I move a few things out of the way until I notice the item I'm looking for, the same one that fell out earlier when we were in here.

I grip it in my palm, a wave of dread suddenly washing over me as I study it closely.

When I hear the showers turning off one by one, I step back, moving everything back the way I found it before I quickly grab my things and dart out of the locker rooms, long before anyone comes into view from the shower rooms.

On my way out, I stuff the item into my duffle bag and exit the locker rooms, signaling Lilah, Sandra and Michelle for us to leave. They immediately follow me out of the gymnasium and we all walk together, chatting for a bit until we part ways.

Lilah remains with me as we tell her best friends ‘goodbye' for the rest of the day.

When it's just the two of us, I turn to look at Lilah curiously.

"You've been mostly out of it for the day. What's wrong? Something on your mind?" I ask her, gripping her hand in my free one as she walks me to my ride.

"The question is, what's not on my mind?" She giggles in response.

I can understand where she's coming from. Having to deal for another four months here is not going to be easy at all.

I really hate that she's living in the dorms when I have a house I'm renting all to myself. I'm tempted to ask her to move in with me for this last semester but how would she respond to that?

I look down at where our hands are linked, smiling at the charm bracelet I gave her for her birthday over the summer. "Hey, do you want to know what the gold key on your bracelet stands for now?" I suddenly blurt out, changing topic entirely.

Lilah looks up at me in wonderment, her eyes lighting up immediately.

"You're going to tell me now? What changed your mind?"

"Eh..." is all I reply and she frowns.

"Tell me." She beams and I give her hand a light squeeze in return as we make it out to my ride in the student parking lot.

"That key symbolizes ‘home.'" I simply state, chuckling at the perplexed expression on her face.

"Uh, ok, you're gonna have to give me a little more than that."

"Well, it's simple." I say with a smirk. "My home is your home, your home is my home. We all need a key to get through the front door right? Well, that last charm symbolizes where I'd like us to eventually end up."

I notice how her excited expression slowly fades as she gets more serious.

"So...in other words..." She drifts off, looking away from me as we stop in front of my ride and I release her hand to unlock the doors.

"In other words..." I continue. "I'd like us to one day build a home together with that ‘charm' representing the key to our front door." I divulge.

"Ah. I see." Lilah utters before inhaling and exhaling deeply. "Well um..."

"I'm not asking you to move in with me now or anything. I mean that's a big step. But for you, it's probably a gigantic ‘out of this world' step."

"Hey!" She nudges me playfully and I chuckle.

"I'm kidding. But seriously, keep it as a thought in the back of your mind for now ok?"

I casually move around the ride to toss in my items before coming back over to stand before her. I look down at her, releasing a sigh as I grip under her chin. "And no matter what happens, always remember even if we fight, I'll still love you. I assure you, it won't disappear so easily so don't be afraid of things when it comes to us ok?"

"R-right. I know that." She nods in affirmation before looking up at me. Her smile slowly returns before she pulls me down for a kiss.  I grip her tightly, deepening our kiss until I feel my heartbeat speed up and my groin area start to stir. Reluctantly, I pull away from her, breaking our kiss to catch my breath.

Ah, I need to chill out for a bit. As much as I want to make love to her every time I see her, this is dangerous. If I get pulled in deeper than I already am without being assured that we'll truly be ok outside of these walls, I don't think I'd be able to handle losing her if that ever happened. I'm not saying it will but, it's obvious now that we have some type of comfort zone here at this school even if our lives here are a little twisted.

Maintaining a relationship outside of this school setting when I'm back to my regular life and Lilah is building her career and future...I don't know what that's going to be like. In fact, it's scaring the shit out of me. I think that's why I randomly decided to tell her about the charm, to get the idea rolling in her mind because I've never been in this type of situation before with a woman. While I'm ready to put up a fight and do whatever it takes to hold onto us, she has to want the same things as well or else, we'll slowly fall apart, whether we want that or not.

"Um, Justin? Zone out much?" Lilah waves her hand in front of my face and I grip it, giving her a light kiss inside the palm of her hand before I release her.

"I'm heading out for the day. I'll see you tomorrow? We'll go out to dinner. Be sure to let headmaster Williams know you plan on going out tomorrow morning ok? So, we won't have a problem." I tell her.

"You seem to have a lot on your mind also Justin. You're kind of distant." Lilah points out and I shake my head, giving her a quick peck on the lips as ‘goodbye' before I move around and hop into the driver's seat.

"Head right in ok? Take care. I'll give you a call later tonight." I call out to her, bringing the ride to life and slowly pulling out of my parking spot.

"Ok, uh, safe drive!" She waves goodbye to me, standing on the side as she watches me pull out. "Justin!" She calls out again and I stick my head out of the window.

"Yeah?" I respond, taking in her silhouette and how her arms are folded across her chest protectively.

"I love you." Her face lights up in a warm smile when she says this and I grin back at her.

It's settled. I'm going to do this. I'm going to do this for us and for our future together. I'm going to investigate Ethan and his dad and find a way to help in solving this issue Lilah's family is having with them. I have the strongest feeling that if we can eliminate that obstacle, things will be able to move on smoothly for the most part between us until we leave this place after graduation.

"Love you too! Always!"