Chapter 23: Chapter Twenty-Three

Kyla's POV

He huffs and even looks sideways before responding, making me even more embarrassed. I say stupid things without even thinking. Why will I blurt out something so foolish?

"I just want you to feel comfortable. You've heard a lot about me, so I want a chance, so you'll get to know the real me. That's all Kyla." He explains clearing my doubts. That makes sense. He does have a bad reputation, but now that I'm getting to know him, it seems they were just exaggerating.

"Oh. Ok,” I say shrugging my shoulders. I want to ask further questions, like why does care what I think about him or is there actually a different side to him than what I've perceived? A lot of questions are running through my head, but I decide to be smart about it and let it go, for now. I have a plan to focus on anyway.

"Alright then, let's go back to the table,” he states, keeping a few fingers in his hair trying to ruffle them a bit. Is that a reflect action or does he like his hair messy? It does look really good on him. Unknowingly, I gape at him, his hair but same thing. When it dawns on me, I shook my head a few times and offered a small smile. On today's list, we have; make a total fool out of yourself all day long, just great.

"Ok," I say and walk ahead of him. I have mixed emotions right now. So many mixed emotions. I shrug all away and we're walking back to our table.

I notice the weirdest thing as Joanna takes my seat. She usually seats with them but today her face is glowing, something must be up. Stein is staring at her not really staring but actually gushing. It's looks oddly familiar, that exact look he's giving her, I've seen it before.

Then, it clicks. Memories flashes in my head, memories of Riley and her reaction every time we come across Stein. She has that exact same look, if Stein has it now but directed towards Joanna, It means Stein has a crush on her. If that's not it, he might want her as his next conquest. I strongly believe the answer as the first. I almost puke at the mere thought of him falling for an arrogant and selfish bitch as her although I wonder why she hasn't jumped at the opportunity to be with a popular guy. Joanna will use any opportunity to climb the social ladder, if I'm correct and he likes her, she isn't aware. Once she is, he's toast.

My question is answered the second we make eye contact. She drags her eyes between Richard and me and cringes her nose in distaste. Noticing our closeness, her lips twitch, undoubtedly with anger. She tries her best to hide it by biting on her lips. I notice this movement all too well.

I feel like a fool for not noticing the tiniest details. Joanna didn't make the bet so Riley and I would have issues. She did it all for Richard. Obviously, Stein likes her, and she knows Richard won't go against his best friend for a girl, so she came up with the next best idea.

Get Richard to make Stein fall for another girl. Once he's sure, he can move on with Joanna. She'll have the guy her heart wants, and Richard won't whine about it. Riley and I were just pawns in her chess game.

It's actually smart in a twisted way. If only I didn't become the center of her huge pawn I will actually be impressed. I lost my best friend because of her selfish needs. I clench my fist, crazy desires running through my head. They all end with her bleeding badly. That's all I actually wanted.

I shot a massive glare in her direction. I hate the fact that we are going to seat close. It will not end well at all. I contemplate asking her to leave or finding another seat. It is a big table really.

"Kyla is in that seat."

Richard says surprisingly. She smiles and stands up. It's really funny the way she obeys him, her eyes give me the impression that she can do anything for him, and I think she wants him to know that as well.

I shake my head and take my seat going back to my meal.

****

Lunch break is almost over and so far no snarky comments whatsoever. The only thing I've noticed is that Joanna has been constantly flirting. It's sincerely disgusting to watch. I nearly puke, twice.

"So, Kyla."

A random guy speaks up.

"Yeah..." I trail off, still eating.

"How's the dare going so far?"

The moment the words leave his lips, I remember the impact I'm supposed to be making. Technically, I'm supposed to be convincing everyone I'm in love with Stein. What is wrong with me!

"Great I guess, Stein has been a lovely person to explore."

"So, any kisses yet?"

He asks making me gag. Everyone has been trying to make me puke all day, they might actually succeed soon.

"Aww, come on. Kiss him."

"Wait what?"

I blinked my eyes in disbelief and wipe my lips. They are unbelievable.

"Yeah Kyla, kiss him."

Joanna agrees, and I bet she's smirking, enjoying every moment of my torment. They cannot just let me have one day without problems. I do not want to kiss him, but I need to convince everyone I am falling for him. This is a really tight spot, and I don't know how to get out of it.