English Project (LaydenxJared)

[Miss Murder]

English was alright. Jared wasn't a bookworm, but he did find reading books of his selection enjoyable. He had a particular taste, but was open enough to trying new things. If he didn't like it than he wouldn't try something of the same genre again. The only problem with English was writing. Which, for the most part, was the biggest portion of the class. Not being all that adequate when it came to grammar all the time Jared proceeded to embarrass himself when it came time to be assigned partners. Fortunately, the hadn't had a project in a while, but that time was about to end.

That day, a Tuesday, when Jade managed to crawl through the sprung open door his luck ended. As usual, he sat down in the chair to the far left and second to the back. When he glanced up at the board to find that the day's usual question-of-the-day wasn't up there. Which meant that the teacher wanted to talk to the class straight away. Which lead to the hint of them being assigned a project. Before class began Jared found himself praying the entire time, hoping by some miracle, that there would be no project. Despite is mental efforts the teacher sat down on his usual stool in front and removed his square framed glasses. "Today we will be going into a new project. Yes, you will be assigned a partner," his eyes glancing in Jared's direction. It was only natural since every time he mentioned a project Jared would inquire if they'd be assigned partners. Then, the teacher would answer yes and he'd burst out into a series of mumbles about how independent work was best. "The project will be reading a book that you and your partner will choice and writing an essay on it. It will be due next Monday. Also, you must choice a book form the list I will pass out to you."

"Oh sweet, merciful mother," mumbled Jared as the stack of papers were passed toward him. Taking one, from the bottom, he carelessly handed the backwards. The list was lengthy and most of the book titles he could identify. Well, that was a relief at least. Too impatient to figure out who his partner would be he gazed around the room. Identifying a few old partners he frowned in shame. It was a relief that he wouldn't be stuck with them again, but he felt sick just thinking about possibly being stuck with the smartest kid in the class. Well, maybe he wasn't the smartest, but he was definitely the most confident and bossy. Measuring his odds Jade didn't pay attention to the teacher's further explanation of the project.

"So I will be announcing the partners now," the teacher sniffed and pulled out a piece of paper from the bottom of his stack. Jared's head snapped forth and he crossed his fingers hoping for a kind partner. He listened nervously as the names were called off in pairs. It was near the end of the list that his own was finally called. "Jared, Layden," the teacher groveled in with the rest of the names. Jared looked around for the face named Layden. He hadn't ever talked to the boy, but he seemed alright. Not uptight about anything at least. Jared raised his left hand lowly in recognition to his partner. He half smiled as the teacher finished. "Okay. You may start." Wait, start what?

[likewooh]

English. It was the class Layden would most likely succeed in. He loved reading. He loved writing and most of all the projects were easy for him to complete, but when it came to having partners to complete it Layden didn't agree. For one, the teacher was very aware that he did most of the work, yet he always gave whatever partner he had the same grade, even if he ratted them out and told the teacher they'd done nothing since the project began.

Layden was a observant fellow, so when he noticed the question of the day missing, he nodded his head and a smile formed on his face. Project time and it was only a Tuesday. In Layden's opinion, most of the teachers projects seemed generic and easy. He knew it was English and just about everything about the subject was it's own mystery, but there was still the fact that English should be an exciting subject; challenging even and Layden always found himself finished with the projects within a day or two. I could have to do with the fact that he just told his partners right off the bat that they didn't need to do anything but stare at the ceiling and not bother him that made him a wanted partner in this class. Layden could understand that, and accepted it. It was nice to be wanted, even though he was being used a huge majority of the time.

Picking a book out, and writing an essay was easy. Easy, so easy. Why was he even in this class? It reminded him of eighth grade Honors English. He took a paper from the stack that was being passed around and placed it in the hand of the next person, looking down at the floor as he did so. Leaning forward, he listened as the teacher explained the rest of the project. Maybe he should be teacher for a day, and then maybe they'd give him a job as a English teacher and he'd have a job...in a school he attended. It was funny in his mind, so funny that he laughed. Faces turned toward him with scowls and he turned his face down. He didn't need enemies and smart people tended to get them.

Then it came to getting a partner. Layden sighed, hoping that it wasn't some lazy bastard, even though he told his partners to just chill and he'd get it done. His partner should at least make an effort and then later on be like "well you told me not to do anything. I tried to help, but..." He was fine with that, just not all out laziness. While his thoughts passed him by, he was able to hear who his partner was. Jared. Jared!? His eyes opened wide as he looked ahead of him and the raised hand. He already knew who Jared was, but he probably didn't know he existed, until now. Gulping, he stood, collecting his things and went over to Jared. Dragging a chair, he stood next to him, suddenly antsy. He had opted to put the black war paint underneath his eyes and he suddenly regretted it. "I'm Layden." he began. "Um...you don't have to do anything. Normally, I just..do it alone and you get credit for it." he said nodding his head as he was able to keep his voice stable.

But then when he finished talking, his leg began shaking, like it was having a spaz attack. He clamped his hand down on it, and it seemed to settle down, but his hand was still moving with the slow motions of his leg. Embarrassing. "Just choose a book, I'll read and write about it. Simple? You're welcome." He said smiling nervously. He tended to just talk whenever he was nervous. Talk and talk and not know what he was saying. This was proof of it.

[Miss Murder]

Layden had already begun to collect his books so Jared assumed that he was going to be the one to move. Good, that would leave him the embarrassment of loose papers flying out of his unused binder. The first thing he noticed of his new acquaintance was the war paint under his eyes. He thought it was quite unusual, but then he was someone who believed greatly in one's own style. Wondering how he should break the news to his partner, that he wasn't a great writer, he was surprised when he began first. He listened curiously to what he had to say, and from the corner of eye saw his shaky leg. Was he that excited to get to work? Either way, it didn't really manner to him because he was shaking in his pants earlier in fear of getting a bossy partner.

Being asked not to do anything in particular, but choose a book, was great. Leaning back in his chair Jared outstretched his legs and smirked. Maybe having Layden as a partner would be the best yet. However, he did feel a little guilty not doing anything. Even though Jared normally failed miserably he still always attempted to do part of the work. "Tell you what," he said leaning toward Layden on his chair, "we both choose a book and read it. I'll help you write it, but I'm not guaranteeing anything great."

With that Jared let his chin rest on the palm of his left hand. The best he could do was offer to help, but he also didn't want to drag Layden, and himself, down a grade because he was writing the essay. Sure, this project seemed easy enough, but then he just seemed to struggle with anything writing wise. "What do you say?" he said a bit nervous himself. Remembering the formalities that his partner had pressed before he smiled, "oh thank you for offering." He wondered if Layden's wonderfully polite face would be twisted in cruel laughter at Jared's failures. Of course, Layden didn't seem the type, but then he was a bit paranoid.

He drew his eyes from the boy's face momentarily to glance down at the book list. Nothing popped out at him. He recognized a few titles, but he didn't really see himself writing a whole essay on them. What was there? He quietly turned his attention back to Layden. His smile turning crooked.

((what do you want them to an essay on? It'd be ironic if Pride&Prejudice was on there. Harhar.))

[likewooh]

Layden dug into his outer thighs, and immediately saw the colored veins coming up as he made an effort to stop his leg from shaking. Yes, the other boy had probably seen his leg shaking, misinterpreted it for something else besides nerves and disregard it. Layden dug deeper, his nail not penetrating at all because of the fabric. It would leave a mark, yes, but at least it didn't look like there was any sign of blood coming from his thigh for unexplained reasons to the outside. You see, if blood simply starting to spill from your thigh and there was no evidence of anything happening to you between the time you were bleeding and weren't bleeding people would look at you weird. Not that people didn't already do that to him. "Ah." He'd gone to deep he'd realized, but he was glad he hadn't been loud enough to hear. The "ah" was a whispered cry between ouch and ow. He hadn't manage to say any of those so "ah" was the next best thing.

Weren't thighs filled with muscle and veins? Well, the way he was digging his nails in, it hurt. His cheeks colored as he looked up at his partner nodding his head at the other boys suggestion. This was one time when Layden hadn't been observant at all of the boys movements. "No." Layden said simply. Yes, he knew he nodded, but he didn't exactly agree with everything the boy said. For the most part, picking out a book together was okay with him but it would take a lot longer if, Layden was picky with the books and the boy was or wasn't as well. "I'll write. We can choose a book together though." He said, breezing over those words, in order to avoid the hidden meaning. Of course, there was no hidden meaning, it was just in his mind...what he said meant more and he hoped the boy didn't see that. He wanted to be relaxed today, and Jared was making it hard without even trying.

Finding no use for words, he nodded and flipped through the list. Of course, all the classics were on there like Pride and Prejudice, Jane Eyre, Wuthering Heights, and he hadn't read Wuthering Heights yet. Perhaps that would be a good one to read. "How about Wuthering Heights?" That would mean a challenge for him because he was aware that it was written some time ago, in the 19th century and the language was just as complicated as that in Pride and Prejudice. But then again, he wanted to complete the project properly, meaning he wanted something he would understand within two days. "Or, maybe we can go modern? Katie.com: My Story, What Happened to Lani Garver?, Absolute Brightness." Layden scratched his chin. Some of these books were only between 2 - 10 years old, excluding the classics. Perhaps, they could go modern for this one.

Jared seemed to smile a lot as well, but it seemed to Layden that he thought it was a necessity. Was he trying to make him feel comfortable? Nothing would make him that way. Maybe if the boy went on an extended bathroom break, he could possibly get something done - like begin reading. Blankly, he looked up at Jared, at that smile and swallowed. It was more like a silent gulp, but it caused him to choke.

Layden leaned forward and began coughing harshly. It was one of those coughs that started when you swallowed the wrong way. When the coughs came to a halt, his face was beet red and his eyes had begun to tear up. The run had since become quiet, and everyone seemed to be stil - like they were waiting for him to collapse and die. To bad he didn't. He was sure at this point, he wouldn't be able to look at his partner. He looks like a tomato.

[Miss Murder]

Although most of the kids in the room didn't or wouldn't hear Layden's small, suppressed "ah" it came clear enough to Jared's ears. It seemed, to him, the further he tried to open up the more awkward it got. Wasn't it supposed to be the opposite way? Perhaps a reserved approach was best. "Okay," he said carefully was the boy volunteered to do all the writing. He couldn't lie and say he wasn't happy that he didn't have to write anything.

Jared listened quietly as the boy began to flip and read through the list. As he suggested they go more modern he wrinkled his nose a bit. They sounded a clique like the dramatic stores a girl would read. Some, were alright, but then they didn't capture his attention. "Let's try Wuthering Heights, well if that is okay with you." It was the other boy who had to write the essay - not him.

He waited as Layden glanced up at him and then started to choke. On what? Panicking he stood up grabbed the other boy's shoulder and shook him briefly. He spontaneously and roughly, half smacking, placed his hand against Layden's jawline and lifted his face. What was he supposed to do? The entire room was silent and no one made a move to help or object to the pair. "He's choking! Are you going to fucking sit there?" his voice raising a few octaves as he yelled.

The first thing that came to mind was CPR, but mortally he denied it in so many ways. He placed up objections that were instantly broken down as his partner's condition worsened. What was a guy to do? Leaning in, Jared's hands broke out in cold sweat and slowly he moved his quivering lips toward the half dying kid. It was when he was about to in for the attack that Layden started coughing furiously. He moved back to give him some space and then squatted down so he could look up at his partner's face. The boy turned the shade of a red tomato and no one in the room said anything. Jared, embarrassed from almost making lip contact with the boy, turned his face away once he confirmed his safety. "Hey, Mr. C," he said not looking at anyone or anything in particular, "Layden and I would like to be excused."

Jared automatically assumed that Layden would want to leave when asking the question. It was only natural. The kid had half choked and that was enough to make Jared run heels over head for the door. Standing up, without looking at anyone, he left the room before the teacher could reply. He could feel heat crawling up his face. He had almost performed CPR on Layden! That counted as almost kissing! Leaning against the wall outside the classroom he buried his face in the palms of his hands. Trying to hide the shameful embarrassment he felt. He had acted too quickly.

[likewooh]

Well, the boy hadn't put up a fight that was for sure, so he was happy that he didn't have to write. He did have to read though and that required hours on end, especially with understanding classic books written in the 19th century. "Are you okay with taking notes?" Layden asked, trying to keep his tone even. His nerves were creeping up on him once again and didn't seem to want to leave him alone. At least his knee stopped shaking, but his thoughts; they kept wandering off to places where he shouldn't be. You could say, it was like a fantasy with a lot of graphic pictures. And, the one person that happened to be in that fantasy was his partner. "Inhale, exhale. Inhale, exhale." he said under his breath. Layden could rarely keep his thoughts to himself. Yes, he could control them, but occasionally some of them slipped through. He dared a look at Jared, but quickly looked back, pushing his chair back as the tickle in his throat nestled down waiting for the perfect moment to come back and haunt him.

To be honest, Layden was surprised with Jared's choice. Wuthering Heights was a classic, and sometimes had very complicated words. Big words that you never heard in less you were either over seventy or a graduated history major. All the same, Layden nodded. It would be a challenge and he commended the boy for picking it out - on his own. Grabbing onto his paper a little to hard, the edges wrinkled, he circled the title Wuthering Heights with his pencil. Well, he tried to make a circle and ended up stabbing the paper. He wasn't mad, this was what happened when nerves got to him, but then again it would look as if he'd stabbed a whole simply because he didn't have a hard surface to write on. It made sense, therefore he was in the clear.

He had since coughed, and the tickle was still there, causing a harsh cough to erupt from his mouth unwillingly. What he didn't expect was for his partner, who he barely knew but liked very much to stand up for him. But then again, Jared probably saw it as an obligation. Maybe he had the same situation when nobody had done anything for him, but his partner stood up for him in a time of need. Layden didn't know, and he didn't care to know. He would relish in the fact that, Jared would actually try to save him. He didn't know he would go this far though. "No..I don't.." Layden choked out, as the cough subsided in volume, although the harshness of it to his throat was appalling.

The boy's hand was clenched on his shoulder and he was shaking him, but Layden wasn't registering anything. It was probably because he was being touched by the one person he would wish to be touched by. Not in a...explicit way, no, of course not. Sighing, he remembered the fantasy, the content of it and he knew he was going against his word. What a stupid boy he was. It was only a crush and it would pass, he knew it. But all thoughts of that evaporated as he saw the boy moving closer to him. He couldn't tell if he was imagining this or if it was actually happening. Layden, now unaware of his surroundings leaned in, not being stupid enough to pucker his lips and close his eyes. It just seemed like a weird thing to do anyways. How would you observe if the other person was really into the kiss? There was no other way.

But that was cut short, when his throat decided to tickle him a little to harshly and he coughed up a storm. Layden and I would like to be excused? Was he hearing right and what was this boy getting at? They needed to complete the project, but before he could tell the boy that, he was already out the door. Embarrassed probably, because that was a bold move on his part...it looked as if Jared was about to kiss him. Layden sunk deeper into the ground. Jared was...embarrassed because of him? Why did he always do this with people?

Layden stormed out of the room, the door slamming behind him. He took a step forward and saw Jared's face buried in the palm of his hand. Definitely embarrassed. It was confirmed just by that. Layden gave the boy space, deciding to lean again the other wall on the other side of the hall. "Sorry about that. You..you didn't...really have to do that. I mean, thank you, but..I wasn't worth your embarrassment." he said, that was his apology. Hopefully, the boy would just come back in the room so they could at least finish something with the project. Layden began pacing and pacing. Maybe this was the boys first time being embarrassed, whereas for Layden it had been many times.

[Miss Murder]

Jared flinched as the door slammed shut, but didn't lift his eyes to see who walked out. It was soon made clear who it was though. Layden, who seemed completely normal about the entire situation, gave his apology. A bit pissed off he looked up at his partner and briefly wiped the back of his palm across his face as if it'd get rid of the color that resided there. "Oh? Did you except me to sit there and watch you half choke?" he muttered quietly so Layden wouldn't hear him. He had no reason to be angry with the boy so why was he apologizing? Everything was his doing and he was just being a big drama queen over nothing. Then he just ditched the project for his own moment.

He watched the other boy pace and sighed. How did Layden except him to do all the talking? He, Jared, who couldn't even have a proper conversation with his room mate without panicking. "Stop pacing, will you? It's really annoying," he grumbled with a frown. "Also, will you stop apologizing already? My actions were my own choice. Please forgive me for acting mindlessly." There, he had apologized. Crossing his arms Jared closed his eyes and inhaled deeply for a moments time. Opening his eyes, refreshed, he decided to behave. He'd talk of the project and avoid pressing on Layden further. "Okay, I'm going back in. God help me," he said as he turned for the door again. The worst part would be walking in with everyone's eyes on him. "Oh," pausing as he turned the handle, "and I use sticky notes. I hope that is okay with you."

With that Jared yanked the door open and strolled into the room. Avoiding making eye contact with everyone's eyes that lifted upwards at his arrival.The teacher looked as if he wanted to say something, but Jared ignored him and sat down in his seat again. Lifting his pencil he circle the book title he and Layden were to take on. Soon after he glanced up to see the teacher hovering over his desk. "Mr. Daniels I expect to see you after class." Swallowing nervously he bravely saluted his teacher and nodded.

Looking down, at the messily circled title on his paper he reread it over again. Wuthering Heights. He knew it was going to be a challenge, but some part of him just wouldn't accept doing any other. Jared, having read books of such content, knew the speech and wording was complicated. However, he actually enjoyed reading such novels. The way authors wrote and talked back then was too beautiful. The text flowed easily and it was never just a simple yes or no. Happily distracted with his thoughts Jared didn't notice whether or not Layden had returned or that many eyes were on him. Or the glare that the teacher secretly gave him just overhead a stack of papers he held. Nope, Jared was in his safety zone. A lovely one at that.

[likewooh]

Anyone could tell from a distance that the other boy was in distressed and angry. Layden wouldn't push his luck, he couldn't fight therefore it wouldn't be smart for him to say something he'd normally say when things like this happened to him, which wasn't often. He embarrassed himself on his own, and now it was a person that he'd come into contact with that he'd embarrassed. It was like he was contagious. This was why he did so well on his own, because then he wouldn't have to apologize for every mistake he made, because then he wouldn't be standing out in the hallway trying not to think about the fact that he'd wanted to kiss a guy. Layden, still pacing didn't hear anything but the mumbled words from the boy. "What?" he asked. His pacing quickened, and he knew he'd be sick if he didn't stop, it was just a matter of sending his brain a message to stop.

His brain didn't seem to be listening to him, but it did listen to Jared. He immediately came to a halt mid pace and turned to stare at the boy. Magical powers, Layden figured because how could another person control another persons body just by asking for them to stop. Layden shrugged, his lips forming a frown. Layden wasn't angry, a little embarrassed and disappointed, but not angry as the boy was. Putting his hand deep into his pocket, he took a step toward the boy, looking at him, but not exactly looking at him. He staring past him because it would be a lot easier that way. He was sure Jared knew what he had been about to do, and Layden knew as well. "Sorry, I didn't...I mean. I - well...I'm sorry? I...you didn't do anything mindless." He shrugged, a crooked grin on his face. "You acted too hasty, but not mindlessly. But, I'm sorry you feel that way." Layden said. He'd spoken. He'd spoken to Jared, like any other of the boys would talk to another. He sounded so sure of himself, that it disgusted him to no end. He hated being blunt, but most of all he hated being blunt at the worst possible moments.

Layden nodded his head as the boy returned the room. As soon as the boy reentered the room, Layden began pacing back and forth again, wondering how he could possibly get anything done, when all he could think about was what had happened just five minutes ago. Layden came to a hall, at the water fountain down the hall, and splashed his face with droplets of water. He looked into the distorted features that the steel showed him. His war paint was dripping down his face and drying as quick at the water had splashed onto his face. The part of his hair that flopped over onto his forehead, was dripping onto the floor of the hallway. Layden watched the water drip before realizing he'd been in the hallway to long.

Layden rushed down the hallway, his feet stomping desperately to get there quicker if he walked. With his dry hand on the doorknob, he turned it, and watched the door open before him . His eyes fell on the people around him, as they looked at him and he looked back, his nerves welling inside of him and causing him to hang his head until he found his seat beside Jared. The tickle in his throat had since gone, and he wished it had stayed away. Looking at the teacher, he could see his attention wasn't directed at him, but at Jared. He was glaring. Was a teacher even suppose to glare at a student like that? He was even more surprised when the teacher said nothing of his changes appearance and his delayed return after Jared entered. He was lucky he supposed.

Layden leaned back in his chair, knowing he wouldn't have to do anything until Jared finished, which was the only thing he hated. He had nothing to do, and it wasn't like he was going to read over the boys shoulder. Maybe he could lean in a little, and just make small suggestions about what to write down. But Layden figured, Jared already knew how to take notes. "Why is he glaring at you?" Layden said, looking at the teacher once again. There had to be a reason.

[Miss Murder]

As he began to read the first page of the novel he was distracted by Layden. Glancing up he looked at the teacher, whom pretended to be scanning the room, and shrugged. "He wants to see me after class. It might have something to do with me swearing at the entire class and then running out of the room without permission." Scratching the back of his neck he sighed. He never was a teacher's pet, and actually he knew quite a few teachers that placed much dislike in him (his math teacher included). They didn't hate him, but after quite a few times of lecturing the began to be lead to the conclusion that Jared was a hopeless case. All he was interested in was music. It was his specialty. Otherwise, he didn't put up much of a standard. He did try, and it wasn't his fault that the classes were so boring. The teacher would probably have a one on one with him later. Perhaps put his arm around his shoulder, the whole buddy on buddy act, and tell him how he didn't really want to punish him. Then, he'd get a weeks detention.

Wait, if he got a detention then that would mean he'd be with other boys. Of all grades. Ripping one of sticky notes in the wrong way that he had been handling Jared held his breath. It was most likely that a certain someone would have detention as well. Klint Acker. No way. He wouldn't allow it. Even if he had to beg for a lunch's detention. No way would he allow himself to have the same detention as Klint Acker. The boy was the cause of Jared's own personal hell. He was the one to make him discover mixed feelings. That bastard who had stepped on his most prized position. Setting the useless sticky note aside he comforted himself with the thought that it was possibly that thing didn't have a detention that week as well. Maybe he was actually a great student. Even if his breath smelt like cigarettes and he found pleasure in harassing boys against their will. Yes, maybe he was favored by the teachers. In self disgust that he had actually thought about that thing during class he shivered.

Attempting to brush his thoughts aside he turned to Layden for the first time since they were in the hall. The war paint he had on had dripped down and dried up and part of his hair was still wet. "Ummm," Jared said unsure how to tell the boy, "you might want to," he wiped his own face in the same spot where the problem was on Layden's. Turning away again he looked back down at his book, "there is only one copy of this book here right now, but later we could check the library if you want." Jared didn't want to go to the library because of the crazy librarian. However, he would feel guilty making Layden go there by himself. So, he figured he'd offer.

Now, he had to get to reading. He had to focus. He was the only one with the book at the moment to so the first few chapters depended on him. However, he kept getting distracted by the simplest sounds. Reading the same line over and over he seemed to be making no progress. He wished he had ear plugs.

[likewooh]

Layden looked between Jared and the teacher incredulously. Layden was sure Jared had said very clearly that he would like to be excused. It made no sense that, Jared was the only one to be punished when he'd practically done the same thing, except for the yelling. He was sure the yelling had been necessary, in any case, Layden would have done the same in another life. "That doesn't seem fair. You should have told him that I did the same thing...except for the swearing." Maybe then, the teacher wouldn't be so harsh.. Seriously, this was an all boys school and cussing happened all the time. What made Jared's cussing any different from the many times, other students had cussed in this class? Layden figured, the teacher must really have it out for Jared, if he wanted to see him after class for such a frequent act.

Scrunching up his nose, Layden watched the other boy as he attempted to point out what Layden already knew was there, after all he'd anticipated his war paint dripping and drying on his face and his hair dripping onto his pants and the floor. It wasn't like he was completely oblivious and blind to the fact that water was all over his face. How could he be? "Uh, yeah, I know already. I don't...really care." Layden said, trying to keep his voice steady this time. But then again as he thought, his nerves had gotten him an experience he was sure he'd never have again - not with Jared at least. All hope of ever talking to him outside of this project disappeared and the look he'd had outside in the hall. It was enough to bury Layden knee deep in quick sand, with no possible escape. It was hopeless liking Jared and Layden knew that now, he just...couldn't get over it.

"No...It's fine. I'll n-need - wait what was I saying?" Mid sentence he'd suddenly lost thought, because he realized this was his chance to get to know Jared, outside of class even if momentary. He looked down at his list, ashamed that he was sabotaging everything and holding everything on a little string. He was playing the cards and he hadn't realized until Jared started coming to him for answers to his questions. Well they were partners, right? "Well, if you want to, you can tag along." Layden said, as innocently as possibly, not glancing or looking up at the boy that sat beside him. He couldn't, his eyes would probably betray him and give away his true intent, if he even had one, but regardless, he was doing this for himself. Strange, it was indeed.

Layden crossed his leg, as the boy opened the book, tipping his chair back just slightly to see over his shoulder. He seemed to be reading the same words over and over and Jared hadn't even turned the page. Slow reader. But it did give him time to understand the first page. Something about a new landlord and meeting the resident of the house. Layden tipped back further to see a little bit better, his neck stretching out and starting to hurt very much. It was the last tip that got him. He found his chair tilting back, and he found himself falling, falling and falling until he hit the ground with a harsh snap. The room grew silent once more, and nobody seemed to laugh because they knew Layden, he was always embarrassing himself. He tried to get up, but he felt okay right in this spot, just looking up at the ceiling for a while. "Hm..." he said, stretching a bit, before easing himself and the chair up. When that was finally done, he shrugged once more, looking over the stern look the teacher gave him and sat.

Soon after, he found himself tapping a pencil against the paper. It made this faint flopping sound whenever he did it and it seemed to form a very nice, soothing beat in his head. He closed his eyes and continued.

[Miss Murder]

"Haha, yeah," Jared laughed uncomfortably as his partner looked unwilling to believe his explanation. Jared wasn't lying. Honestly, he wasn't. He had just forgotten to add a minor event that had happened between him and his teacher prior to earlier. Under no circumstances did he feel like divulging what had happened. It was for pride that he could not possibly admit to it. No, no, no way. Never would he mention that morning. "Well, it might have something to do with this morning.." Wait, what was he saying? Was he admitting to it? Was he going to confess to Layden? What was he a priest? If Layden did grow out his hair, and some facial hair, then he could look like Jesus? Did that mean he could walk on water? That would be pretty awesome.

Jared, absorbed in his fantasies, ignored what his partner had said about his appearance. He was totally distracted from reading. "Okay, we can go to the library after I talk to the teacher. If you'll wait. You don't have to though." Actually, he was hoping Layden wouldn't wait. He really didn't want to go to the library. However, he felt the duty to go with him. He wouldn't give up a comrade to that monster librarian.

Turning back to his sad attempt to read he felt that feeling. The feeling of being watched. Why was Layden watching him? No, he probably was just trying to read to. Should he offer to share the book? However, maybe he wasn't reading! Maybe, he was a god and making judgment on Jared! What conclusion had he made? Glancing over his shoulder without turning his head he saw Layden leaning in. So he was watching Jared? He was scolding him? Was he really that bad? He had lied to him earlier. Could he tell he tell Jared was lying? It was very likely.
Glancing back at his book he tried to ignore the menacing two eyes that seemed to sway behind him. Then, with a sudden crash, Layden went down. Jumping in his seat at the sound of the impact he glanced back to see if he the boy was okay. He was and shortly he sat back up again.

And so it was determined that Layden wasn't a god. Turning back to his book he decided he could finally focus. Yes, however then he heard Layden's casual tapping. Why? He had finally set his mind on reading. Returning Layden with a casual hum he looked down at the first page again. Rereading the first line and then on to the second. Well, he had made it through the first sentence.

((Somehow things always manage to turn out like this.. Strange. I guess this is the reality of posting when you are half asleep. I apologize.))

[likewooh]

This morning? So the other boy actually came to class early? So, Layden wasn't that strange now that Jared had proved that he came to class early? Layden was visibly glad that he could knock one more thing from the list of strange antics, and habits. That meant there were at least two dozen other things that people found abnormal. Honestly, he didn't mind being different, it was just the fact that he always seemed to be showing it. Was it his hair? Was it the way he walked? Layden never knew, but he constantly tried to fix himself so that he could be more like the boys he saw walking down the hallway with such confidence that it was almost as if everyone knew it was his ego that got him that confidence. Well, Layden wanted that. He wanted to be normal for once, but he knew that wouldn't happen. People had a certain picture in their head already of what type of person Layden was and if he suddenly changed, they wouldn't see the change; they'd see old Layden trying to be better than he really is.

Still, he had no clue what the boy meant by it might have something to do with what happened this morning. Layden knew nothing of that, but he was curious. He wanted to know at least one thing, he could use to his advantage. "What happened this morning?" he asked, tilting his head, trying to act as nonchalant as possible and unconcerned.

"Okay." Layden said simply, not saying whether he'd wait or not. He probably would wait, just for the sake of hearing what the teacher had to say to Jared. If anything, Layden would probably take half the blow if he heard something that didn't seem fair to punish to one person but to the other person involved. He'd been involved, hadn't he? He'd walked out, so anything the teacher said had to apply to him too. But what he would do, was walk out anyways. He didn't think Jared even wanted him around after what happened, - rather what almost happened today. Layden figured, Jared had regrets about even being partners with him, but didn't want to hurt his feelings. But what hurt him more was the fact that Jared didn't say anything at all. Instead he kept being nice to him, making it harder for Layden to process everything.

After he walked out, he'd wait until everyone left, and just hang around the door for a bit, so he could hear. It wouldn't be hard, all he had to do was open the door a crack, maybe wedge a book between the door and the wall. Or, he'd just leave the door wide open like it was when everyone was filling into the class. That certainly was the easier thing to do. Voices did carry.

When Jared began to hum, Layden stopped dropping and stared at him momentarily, before putting the paper and pencil down. It wasn't that he had any problem with accompaniment when he was felt musically inclined enough to tap on anything, it was just that, he had mixed feelings about Jared. It was hard to figure him out for one and well - Jared didn't like him. Not at all, not even as an acquaintance. Layden thought maybe Jared saw him as a burden and perhaps he was. "Sorry." he mumbled, as his knee began bobbing up and down. No sound, mean Jared would be able to start reading for real. Secretly, Layden knew he'd read, take notes and finish the essay on his own. He'd always had a secondary plan, which is why he always worked independently when given the opportunity. Then he wouldn't have to do anything behind another persons back.

[Miss Murder]

Jared had thought out loud. The habit had thus proven troublesome once more. As he could predict, Layden was inclined to know that details of earlier. The way he had muttered off made it understandable for anyone to question. However, he didn't desire to answer Layden. Instead, he brushed the matter off his shoulder as if he had not heard the question. No, he would not mention it. How, a single prank had turned into a massacre. He had been dared by a couple guys in study hall, and it was one of those dares you couldn't refuse, to perform the task. Basically what ended up happening was a whole lot of confusion and anger. His teacher wanted to talk to him later to clear up this mess, but most of all he'd want to sentence punishment.

In the middle of humming to Layden's beat he was disappointed when he stopped. Music was familiar and relaxing. Without it he'd be lost again without a comfort zone. He stopped with a small sigh. Glaring down at the text on the page he stuck a sticky note at the top of the page. He made to bullets and quickly jotted down the thoughts he had in mind. Jared wasn't ever quite focused, and thoughts easily came and went. In dead silence he managed to finish the first two pages and charged onto the third.

However, his mind began to wander yet again. Layden. Giving the boy a quick glance from over his shoulder he considered his partner. What to think of Layden. What did he think of him? Layden was an alright guy. He seemed a bit odd appearance wise, but so was Jared. He was shy and used to embarrassment. That was where Jared and Layden clashed. Jared would never get used to embarrassment, and the other teen just seemed to accept it. For that he felt anger toward Layden. Or even jealously how he kept his cool so well. He wouldn't be surprised if Layden hated him by now. Giving the boy the cool shoulder because he was just ashamed of himself. All he wanted was not to be a burden, and maybe come to a mutual understanding with the guy.

The first step was to clear up the misunderstanding. Which was easier said than done. "Um," he croaked, surprised by the grogginess of his own voice, "sorry." What was he supposed to say? He didn't know. He silently wished that saying that one word would clear things up. However, he knew no matter how sincerely you may say it, it wouldn't. Turning back to page three he began on yet again. Thoughts of Layden quickly erased, momentarily, to make room for Wuthering Heights.

[likewooh]

In Layden's opinion, Jared was actually a welcome relief. Most of the partners he got placed with, didn't give him the time of day. They simply wandered off and told him to get the project done and make sure they got at least a B-. Jared was actually making an effort to help out and although Layden didn't completely trust the boy to get them anything above a B+, at least he could say the other boy was different from the others. Of course, his lack of confidence in his partner was why most of the time, he just told his partners right off the bat to just forget helping and just let him do the work, and having a partner like Jared didn't change that. It was probably because Layden felt deep down, that Jared wanted nothing to do with him and as soon as this was over he'd be off with his other friends laughing about his work with the loner Layden. It was to be expected, it always was.

He questioned why he was even here, at this school when he could have been any where else. It just seemed strange for him that he'd ended up here of all places - a boarding school. An all boys boarding school, when he would have welcomed a public school instead. People in public schools, although a lot more rebellious, had a sort of artistic expression to them. Well some high schools, and he knew if he was there he'd have a few friends here and there. There were always nerds and loners in public schools - but here, it seemed like anyone who was different just kept their heads down and walked alone. Him. He walked alone and Jared, he didn't particularly know much about, so he didn't know.

Layden didn't know what to think of the other male, at this point. And to this point, he hadn't even been thinking to extensively on the matter. This was his partner for the project and once they were finished, they'd both be out of each others hair. While fiddling with his thumb with his nail, his nail pierced the skin, a small trickle of blood falling from the small wound. Layden look at the blood, unsmiling and swiped it away. The droplet of blood was on his other finger and he quickly swept that finger underneath his eyes. He could feel it drip down his face and slowly come to a stop. Another trickle of blood from the wound, and he did the same with the other eyes. Once again the blood trickled down and when he looked back at the wound, it was bleeding again.

He rose his thumb to his mouth, sucking unconsciously at the wound. When he heard the boy speak a half-hearted empty apology, Layden shrugged again, his thumb still in his mouth. Finally, he took his finger out of his mouth, turning to face the boy directly. "Let's just get this finish. Then we won't have to deal with each other." Layden said, timidly, as he looked back at his paper, drops of blood hitting the books listed on the paper. When was this class over anyways? "Sorry? What the fuck does sorry mean? Sorry...does he take me for a fool? It's all just pity...I swear I'll kill myself." Layden mumbled under his breath. His eyes still on his paper, he stared blankly at it, seeing nothing but blurred words. The wounded thumb had since dried up and he couldn't even remember what his blood had tasted like. The reminisce of it was gone. His hair flopped forward and he rubbed his thumb over his thumb. Stressed.

[Miss Murder]

Layden seemed to have no interest in Jared's apology. Which annoyed him for brooding over the subject in the first place. He gave the boy a look from the corner of his eye again. Was there blood on his face? Deciding not to ask he shrugged the matter off an continued to read on. "Fine," he agreed shallowly, "with me." The rest of the period he silently flipped the book's pages. Feeling a little empty. The period dragged on with the tense atmosphere between him and his partner. The others seemed happily chatting, not making progress, and some how Jared envied them.

When the period bell finally rung he didn't move from his seat. Why bother? He took one last note as the last kid swept out the door. He didn't even have to look up to know his teacher as standing in front of him. He sighed, but Jared just continued to stare at his wrinkled dress pants. "You probably know what I'm here to talk about. What you did is a violation of school rules. I was thinking of letting it go, but after disturbing class in the same day... Well, I'd be too soft not to at least assign you detention."

"Fine," Jared agreed feeling the urge to run away. He only wanted to play Jane at that moment. The notes already strumming through his mind. "Sentence me to detention."

"You understand, right? Leaving dorms after curfew and breaking into a classroom..." the man shook his head. "I've never seen you as the time, but they never really do." Jared bit his lip to hold in a yell of protest. It had been for a good reason, in the beginning, but turned later turned into something much worse. If it wasn't for the passing dare for him to steal quizzes for class earlier that day.

He shifted in his seat under the man's unbreakable gaze. Did staring give you mind reading powers? "Can I go?" he asked and fled as he nodded yes. He yanked the door open and sighed as he stepped into the hall. Had Layden stayed after to go to the library? He wouldn't be surprised if he hadn't. He glanced around for the boy, and decided to head back to his dorm if the boy didn't show.

((ending class. Shall we start a new thread for the library IF Layden goes that is?))