#faking it... kinda

Chapter Ten- Gay With Me And Only Me

Amy’s POV

     Have you ever felt like you didn’t want to argue with anyone because you were so exhausted? Yeah, well today’s one of those days. Karma had convinced me to go with her to breakup with Liam, and I’m now going to tutor Oliver. I felt a tug on my arm. Karma took my hand in hers and took me out of my train of thought. Liam sat at a round table with a bunch of girls around him. Karma and I stood behind him and tapped his shoulder. He turned around and saw Karma. He smiled and asked the other girls to leave. They reluctantly obeyed, giving the two of us the evil eye.

"I’ve got to talk to you," Karma said, nervously. Liam shrugged.

"Then why did you bring your girlfriend?" He asked. He took her hand and looked into her eyes. I clenched my jaw and faked a cough. He turned to me and apologized.

"Sorry. She’s just so beautiful," he said. Karma wasn’t amused, thank God.

"I know I gave you the okay, but the light just turned red," I said, stubbornly. He opened his mouth to speak but Karma beat him to it.

"Don’t even try to convince me otherwise. I love this teasing mother trucker." I smiled and ripped Karma’s hand out of his. "This thing we had? It’s over."

"Wait! We hadn’t even had sex, yet!" I rolled my eyes.

"Don’t keep your hopes up." We marched off and I hugged her.

"I love you too." I planted a kiss on her cheek.

"Thanks for being there." I nodded and played with her hair.

"If you’re gonna be gay, you can be gay with me and only me." She laughed.

"Same rules apply," she said. I kissed her nose and hugged her.

     His house was cozy and warm. His parents were in the kitchen, making us lunch. Good thing I told him I was allergic to peanut butter beforehand. We sat down in the family room and took our books out.

"I hope I don’t waste too much of your time," Oliver said.

"Time is something I have a lot of," I replied. He smiled and opened his planner.

"Lets get started, then," he said, cheerfully.

     ”Oliver! Amy! The food is ready,” his mother called. We got up and went into the kitchen. His parents handed us two plates of apples with caramel and sandwiches. I thanked them and returned to the family room. He plotted himself down on the couch.

"I feel like a ten year old again. Getting snacks while studying." He laughed and nodded.

"A day in the life of Oliver," he said with a smile. This guy. He always seems happy. I dipped an apple into the caramel and took a bite.

"This is so good!" I heard his parents laugh from the other room. They came over, arm in arm.

"We’re going to the mall, now. You kids better not do anything naughty," his mom joked, with a wink. I almost choked on the apple.

"Mom!" I just cleared my throat.

"You don’t have to worry about that." She looked confused. "I’m a lesbian."

"Oh! I’m sorry, my apologies. You don’t look like a lesbian," his mom trailed off. I was a little offended. Stereotypical, much? They just scurried out the door after waving goodbye to Oliver.

"I’m so sorry about my parents. They didn’t mean that," he said. I nodded. After a few more minutes of studying, I sat up.

"Do I not look like a lesbian?" He was about to answer, but I continued. "What does a lesbian look like? Obviously not like me, but how? Maybe I’m not a lesbian." Oliver put a hand on the back of his neck, awkwardly. He remained silent, looking at me. I sighed and put my head in my hands. He nudge my arm. I looked up.

"A lesbian doesn’t have to look a particular way. I’m not an expert on them, but all lesbians are beautiful in their own way, like everyone else in the world. They shouldn’t be looked apon differently," he said. I smiled and hugged him.

"Thanks." He wrapped his arms around me and nodded.

"Just let it out. This isn’t a new shirt," he said.

"I’m not worried about me not being a lesbian," I confessed. He seemed confused. I pulled away from his embrace and put my hands on my lap.

"I’m afraid that Karma isn’t a lesbian." He stayed quiet and just rubbed my back, trying to comfort me. It was kinda working.

"We don’t need to study, anymore. You can go, if you want." As much as I wanted to go back to Karma, I wanted to stay here with someone who understood and accepted me. Not that Karma doesn’t, I just wanted to stay with Oliver for a bit more.

"I’m fine here," I said. He nodded.

"You can sleep in my room tonight, if you’d like." I hesitated. "I won’t do anything." I nodded and put my head on his shoulder.

Karma’s POV

     Where is that girl? I paced my room and looked at the clock. She has been gone with Oliver for four hours, now! Doesn’t she know her girlfriend is worried? Obviously not, because she would have been with me by now! I had Netflix on, waiting for her to get back from tutoring. Today, I was going to watch anything she wanted, too! I clenched my jaw and tapped my foot against the floor. I was getting impatient. I wanted to call her, but I knew she would be annoyed at me. Besides, I already tried ten times. I groaned and faceplanted on my bed. I kicked my legs against the mattress and rolled on my back. I already missed the feel of her fingers on my skin and the warmth she gave me. I just wanted to feel her lips on mine as her hands slid under my shirt. I wasn’t in a shirt because I thought she’d be here by now. I was only in my bra and panties. Maybe we could have gone further than ever today. I bit my lip and started to get red. I shouldn’t think about her like that. At least when she wasn’t with me. On my nightstand, my phone buzzed. I snatched it and there was a new message. It was from Amy.

Hey, babe. Sorry for not answering your calls. I’m staying at Oliver’s tonight. Love you xoxo

I replied almost immediately.

Be careful, and don’t miss me too much ;) love you more xoxoxoxo

"I love her too much," I whispered. After I said that, I shook my head. No, I loved her in the perfect amount. I closed my eyes and pretended Amy was in my arms.

Chapter Seven- Too Easy To Forgive

Amy’s POV

     I went looking for Karma after I exited the bathroom. I checked every room around the gymnasium. 

"Amy! There you are, where’s your girlfriend?"

"I don’t even know." Principal Penelope nodded, holding a pillow.

"Well here is the tiara and crown. Not to make assumptions, but I think you want the crown." I knew Karma would want the tiara so I nodded, grabbing the crown and placing it on my head. I took the tiara, also so I could give it to Karma when I found her. The janitor passed by me and accidentally spilled floor cleaner on me. I gasped at my soaked dress.

"I’m so sorry," he said. I just waved him off. 

"No big deal." He nodded and continued. I needed to dry myself off and was just in the bathroom. That would make me seem like someone with potty problems. I looked around and saw the janitor’s closet. I turned the knob and opened the door. I switched the light on and witnessed an unpleasant sight. I screamed and slammed the door closed. Karma was half naked and so was Liam. He was straddling her while he attacked her soft lips. I clenched my jaw and balled up my fists.

"Karma. Get out here," I practically growled. I heard a nervous laugh.

"One second." She stumbled out of the janitor’s closet and almost fell. I caught her and helped her stand straight. I wished I just let her fall. No, I didn’t.

"I can explain." I kept a hard expression on my face when Liam stumbled out with his shirt unbuttoned. He looked panicked and just bulleted to Shane. Karma gulped and grabbed my wrists. I looked down at our hands and pulled away. My eyes wondered down to her legs. Half her dress had rode up, exposing more skin. I bit my lip. She noticed and smirked. She leaned in to kiss me but I had gotten out of my trance.

"Stop," I said and covered her mouth with my hand. "Explain."

     She had gone into an elaborate explanation of how she and Liam ended up making out.

"If I hadn’t came in and found you guys, would you have done it?" She looked down to her feet and nodded.

"I wanted you to be my first time, but he-you. You left me horny, not letting me finish!" I shut her up with a kiss. She moaned into my mouth and wrapped her arms around my neck.

"Get used to it," I said, pulling back. I placed the tiara on her head. Even though she just technically cheated on me, she was still beautiful. I hate how easy it was to forgive her. Her eyes were mesmerizing.

"Let’s welcome our first ever Hester homecoming queens to the stage," Penelope announced. Karma grabbed my hand and pulled me up to the stage. She smiled at me and the anger I was once feeling faded away. Damnit.

"Thank you for voting for us! We really appreciate it." The crowd erupted in applause.

"Kiss," Shane shouted. I rolled my eyes and was about to step off stage, but then I saw Liam. 

"Kiss, kiss, kiss!" The crowd chanted like they did when Karma and I kissed and I had an allergic reaction to the peanuts she ate. Liam and I made eye contact. I bit the inside of my cheek and stomped back to Karma. I took her hand.

"What are you-" I pulled her towards me and spun her around so Liam could only see the back of her head. I captured her lips. Her body relaxed and leaned against mine. My arms snaked around her waist. I opened one eyes and saw Liam with his arms crossed. I’m such a cockblock I thought proudly. I pulled away to catch my breath. We smiled at each other and walked outside.

     Karma leaned against the brick walls that we kissed on before. I pressed my body against hers, resting my elbows on the wall. She grabbed the top of my cardigan and pulled me closer. I stuck out my tongue as she leaned in. It touched her upper lip. She quickly pulled back.

"Ew!" She vigorously wiped her lips. I laughed and hugged her. She tucked her head in my neck and sighed.

"What? You only like it when my tongue is in your mouth, but not on?" I joked. I felt her body vibrate from laughter. I grabbed her face and moved her away from my neck. I rested my forehead on hers and studied her amazing features. I smirked and slowly dragged her dress up. She didn’t seem to notice because she was too distracted by my lips. I gave her a small peck which turned into eagerness on her part. She grabbed my shoulders, thrusting herself to me. Her back arched off the wall. My hands found nothing under her dress. I pulled away.

"Did Liam take them off already?" I asked.

"Yeah," she breathed. She kissed me again.

"No fun." My voice was muffled. I felt her smile against my lips.

"No fun for you," she corrected. "Much more fun for me." I scoffed and bit her bottom lip hard. She gasped and moved her head back. She touched her lip and pouted.

"That hurt," she whined. I laughed and stroked her cheek with my thumb.

"Good." I started walking to the limo.

"You’re such a fucking tease," she said.

"Patience is a virtue," I said. "Good things come to those who wait." I heard her heels on the pavement as she followed behind me.

I posted this before, but something happened. I didn’t proofread, so forward apology. It’s pretty short.

Chapter Five- WTXS

Amy’s POV

     Karma’s chest rose and fell with each breath she took. I knew this because her head was rested on my lap. I had been awake for a few minutes, but I didn’t want to disturb Karma. I put my arm out and grabbed my phone. The time was six. I leaned forward and tapped Karma’s shoulder. She moved away and mumbled something. I leaned in closer.

"What was that?" I asked. She sighed and slowly sat up. She rubbed the sleep out of her eyes.

"I said, ‘leave me alone’." I rolled my eyes and stood up. I stretched my limps and yawned.

"I’ll be in the bathroom," I told her, walking toward the restroom. She made a whining noise and stomped her feet like a little kid. When I turned to look at her, she had the adorable pout she used whenever she wanted something from me. I’ve never ignored it.

"Morning hug," she said. She had her arms out and I walked into them. She held me tightly and pulled me back onto the couch we fell asleep on. I tried to break free, but decided to give in.

"Okay, now leave." She pointed to the bathroom and smiled at me. I grabbed my clothes on the way.

Karma’s POV

     When Amy entered the bathroom,I got up and walked into the kitchen. I check the refrigerator and found nothing.

"Mom," I shouted, knowing my dad was already out of the house. My mom was probably just meditating.

"Yes, hon?" She called back.

"Is there anything to eat?" I didn’t get a reply, but I heard her footsteps in the hallway.

"I’ll make some tea." That was good enough. She started boiling a pot of water.

"Hey, Karma. Do you have an extra bra I could borr-" Amy entered the kitchen with an open mouth. She composed herself.

"Good morning, Mrs. Ashcroft. Thank you for letting me stay here while I get things sorted." My mom gave her a warm smile.

"Of course. You can stay here as long as you’d like. I love your company. I fully support you with ny daughter." My mom got out her phone and turned on the camera.

"Now a picture for your brother, Zen." Amy wrapped her arm around my waist and we smiled into the camera. She took the picture. The pot started steaming and my mom rushed to pour out the contents into cups filled with herbs. I nudged Amy.

"Bottom drawer," I whispered. She looked confused for a second, then realized what I was talking about. She mouthed her thanks and ran to my room to get the bra. My mom handed me two cups of tea.

"Thanks, mom," I said, kissing her cheek. She left me alone in the kitchen. I set the cups down on the dinner table and waited for Amy to return. She rounded the corner, trying to button up her cardigan. I walked over and helped.

"Your tea is on the table." She grabbed hers and took a sip.

"Thanks," she said.

"Thank my mom, she’s the one who made it." Amy shook her head.

"No, thank you for always being there for me. I really appreciate it. You might not think it’s a big deal, but for me it is." Her eyes brimmed with tears. She wiped them away before they could fall. She made it obvious that she didn’t want me to say anything along the lines of ‘no problem’ so I just nodded.

"I’m gonna get changed," I said. I went into my room and quickly picked out a simple outfit; jeans and a floral blouse. I got changed and came back to find Amy. She was on the couch, on her phone. I sat down loudly to grab her attention. She gave me a little wave. I looked over her shoulder to see what she was doing. She closed her messages and opened Twitter. She barely had social media, but she liked checking her mentions. We went through them together. More than half of them were from people who go to Hester, telling us they ship us as #Karmy. Amy had a small smile on her face whenever we passed one. After finishing the mentions, she locked her phone.

"Who were you texting before Twitter?" I asked.

"Shane," she said.

"Harvey?" She nodded. I checked the time. "Alright. We should get going," I said. Amy got her things and we walked out the door.

     I laced my fingers with Amy’s and swung our arms back and forth.

"The dance is tonight," I said. Amy laughed. It wasn’t her normal, careless laugh. It had changed to a half-hearted chuckle. Liam and Shane joined us as we entered the building. Shane looked at Amy with a curious expression. She just gave him a thumbs up and he did the gesture back.

"Hey, Amy. I was wondering if I could steal you for a moment," Shane asked.

"Course." Shane winked at me and motioned to Liam. He left with Amy while I was left alone with Liam. I hope she didn’t just leave because she thinks I still have a thing with Liam or maybe my comment about us doing ‘it’ put too much pressure on her. No one wants to be a virgin’s first time with such high standards. No, it has to be the Liam situation. I obviously don’t feel anything for him. I scoffed and looked up at him. Nope. Maybe I do still like him I though to myself when I stared at his gorgeous face. He smiled which made my heart melt.

"Amy is completely fine with us together," he said.

"I know." I stood there in the hallway, awkwardly. He took my hand and led me to the art room. He shut the door behind him. I was about to ask him what he was doing, but his lips found mine. I relaxed and put my arms around his neck. He put me on the table in the middle of the room.

"We’ve got," he paused, looking at his watch. "twelve minutes." I pressed my lips against his.

"Then stop talking," I said, cupping his face in my hands. His fingers unlooped my belt and I pushed him back.

"Sorry. Is that too far?" He asked. I didn’t want to tell him it was my first time. The first thing that came out of my mouth was to tell him I’ve only been with girls. He understood, but I told him we could do it. In the art room. Maybe my first time can be special. Even without Amy. He smiled and started to unbutton his shirt and I fumbled with my belt. The door behind him opened and two people walked him. I jumped off the table and pointed at his chest.

"I would definitely have a doctor take a look at that."

"Yeah, cool. Will do," he Sid, buttoning up his shirt. "Um, see you at the dance tonight?"

"I’ll be the one in the tiara," I said with a nervous laugh.

     I walked the hallway and turned only to bump into someone.

"Thank god, it’s you," Amy said. She grabbed my shoulders. I was still unsteady because I was almost caught with Liam instead of Amy.

"What? What’s wrong?" I asked, frantically.

"WTXS," she said. "They’re going to interview us."

"So? My parents don’t care. They already joined P.F.L.A.G!"

"What?"

"Parents and Friends of Lesbians And Gays." Amy bit her lip. Her eyebrows knitted together the way they always do whenever she’s nervous.

"I think my mom’s gonna interview Hester High’s lesbian Homecoming Queens."

"She’s a meteorologist!"

"News reporter now," she said. I don’t know how Amy will act around her mother. Will she reveal the truth about us so she can go back and live with her mom? I tried to form a coherent sentence, but gave up after a few attempts. The only word that I could form was,

Chapter Four- New Gay Friend

Amy’s POV

     My mom rolled the car window down far enough to hear me speak. I saw Karma idling nearby with my peripheral vision.  I motioned for her to go and she nodded. I waited until she was far enough not to hear me to start talking.

"Mom, I can explain," I said. Her jaw looked clenched.

"Explain to me what? That you like girls? That you’re gay?" She shouted. No one I knew was around but I was still uncomfortable with her shouting that out.

"Mom…" I wasn’t upset or mad. I don’t think I felt anything at that moment, until she said,

"I don’t want a lesbian in my house or car. Pick up your stuff after you walk home. Come back when you come to your senses." then I felt crushed, deflated, unwanted. I opened my mouth to speak.

"Be thankful I’m letting you get your stuff," she said, pulling out of the school’s driveway.

     It’s been ten minutes since my mother rejected me. I was still outside Hester High, sitting by the brick wall that I pressed Karma against while kissing her. I don’t regret that. I put my head in my hands and let hot tears run down my cheeks. I gathered myself and got up. I had to get ready for my ten mile walk home. Or what used to be home. I sighed and began walking with only my backpack to keep me company.

     Fifteen minutes into my walk, it started drizzling. Half an hour in, it started pouring. I cursed under my breath and held my bag over my head as a hood. As if the world was challenging me, a car ran through a puddle, splashing me with water.

"Are you kidding me?" I exclaimed. The car that splashed me pulled over into a cafe a block ahead. The driver had an umbrella in their hands and a big jacket on. I couldn’t tell the gender of the person because I couldn’t see through the rain and the jacket hood was up. The person opened his or her umbrella and started walking. I decided to walk faster to give that buttface a piece of my mind. I noticed the person wasn’t going into the cafe and passes the entrance. No. He/she was heading for me. I bit the inside of my cheek and crossed my arms, standing still. I put my bag onto ny back and just waited for the person to apologize. Finally he/she was in front of me, holding their umbrella over my head.

"What? No apology?" I asked. The person put their hood down and said,

"I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to splash you like that. Or anyway in that matter." Shane Harvey’s familiar voice soothed me. Surprised, I didn’t say anything.

"Let me take you inside the cafe." I let him pull me into the warm and welcoming building where we got a table. I tapped my fingers against the table and played with the wet ends of my hair.

"So," he said, breaking the silence. "Tough day." I licked my dry lips and nodded.

"Why were you just leaving school?" He laughed as if I said the funniest thing in the world.

"I got shortened detention," he said as if it were obvious. A waiter comes over and asks us what we want. Shane ordered an iced coffee and blueberry scone.

"I’m fine, thank yo-"

"She”ll get a hot chocolate," he cut in. The guy nodded and left. I raised an eyebrow at him.

"I’ll pay." I scoffed.

"Like I’d let a stranger pay for me," I said.

"I’m no stranger," he said, defensively.

"I don’t even know your favorite color, ergo you’re a stranger." He flashed a smile.

"Green." He put his hand out and I shook it. "So I heard you talking to the woman in the minivan. What was that about?" I frowned.

"I was kissing my… girlfriend and my mom saw. She’s Christian and doesn’t want a gay around. I have to pick up my stuff when I get home. But you kn- I should be getting there! Oh shoot," I said, beginning to ramble. I grabbed my stuff and pushed in my chair.

"Wait." Shane grabbed my wrist. "I’ll drive you later. Just wait until you get the hot chocolate." I opened my mouth to deny, but he stopped me.

"It’ll be faster if I drive you anyway. Even if you start walking now." I sighed and gave in, sitting back down. He had a victorious smile on his noticably fair face.

"You’re lucky I’m a lazy person," I muttered. He laughed and playfully slapped my arm.

"Whatever. You’re lucky I want to be your new G.B.F." I laughed and rolled my eyes.

"Well you don’t have to pretend to be my boyfriend anymore," I said. He grinned.

     The way Shane made me so comfortable around him was weird. A nice weird. I wrapped my hands around the warm cup of hot chocolate and took another sip.

"This is really good, but I’d better get my things before my mom throws them out the window," I said, trying to joke around, but I was afraid my mom and her fiance, Mr. Cooper, would actually do that. Shane nodded and left to pay.

            He put the heat up in his car and I told him my address. I put my backpack at my feet and took out my cellphone. Good thing my mom still has to pay for the phone bill the next two years. I put my passcode in and saw ten unread messages and one missed call. One from my mom, two from Lauren, and seven from Karma. I opened my Karmas’ last. She asked me to call her back, so I called her number.

"Amy! Where are you?" Karma asked, picking up on the second ring.

"I’m in a car, I’m going to pick up my stuff from the house." I heard Karma huff.

"Give your mom a piece of my mind and tell her to shove a stick up her as-"

"I’m not in my mom’s car."

"Why not?"

"I think she kicked me out of the house," I answered. Shane stared straight at the road, not wanting to get in my business.

"Excuse me? Give me a sec, I think I need to clean out my ears." I sighed.

"Yeah, I know."

"So. Whose car are you in, anyway?"

"Shane’s," I said, looking at him. I think I heard Karma hit the ground.

"Please tell me you aren’t being kidnapped." I held my hand over the phone and asked him,

"Are you going to kidnap me?" He laughed and shook his head. I uncovered the phone. "Nope."

"Good, are you almost at your house?" I nodded and forgot she couldn’t see me.

"Yeah, one more minute."

"Alright, I’ll wait out front for you. Bye."

"Bye." I hung up andput my phone into my pocket.

"Was that your girlfriend?"

"Um, yeah. Yeah, that was Karma."

"Is this your house?" Shane asked, stopping in front of my neighbor’s house.

"Close enough," I said, opening the door. "Thanks for the ride." He flashed me his white teeth. He pulled away and left to wherever. I spotted Karma in my front yard, kicking my mom’s car. I laughed, sure I was really upset, but Karma can always put a smile on my face without trying to. She heard me and looked up mid-kick. She dropped her foot and closing the distance between us. I breathed in the smell of her shampoo. "Lets go inside," she said, taking out the key I secretly gave her in fifth grade. We entered the house which was surprisingly quiet. My mom, Mr. Cooper, and Lauren were home. Their cars were parked. We walked upstairs and went into my room.

"I’ll get your suitcases," Karma said, leaving. I pulled open my dresser and took every clothing article out.

"Lets get to work," I said to myself.

Karma’s POV

     I went downstairs to get Amy her suitcases and a few bags to put everything that didn’t fit inside. I opened the basement door and started looking for the cases.

"What are you doing," Madam Squeaky Voice asked. I turned around and saw Lauren on a bed in the corner using her laptop.

"I’m getting Amy suitcases so she can get her things." Lauren sat up from her laying position.

"Why?" I glared at her.

"Her mom is kicking her out of the house for being with me." I saw her things and grabbed them. "See you at school."

"Wait!" I stopped. "Where is she gonna stay?" I rolled my eyes.

"My house, of course."

     When I got back into Amy’s new old bedroom, I saw her crying on her bed. I put everything down by the window and wrapped Amy in an embrace. She tucked her head into my neck. Her tears fell onto my neck and down to my shirt, soaking it.

"Sorry," she sniffles. I hushed her and held her for a few more minutes. She composed herself and wiped her tears away.

"Thanks for being there for me."

"Obviously. You’re my best friend," I said. She bit her lip and stood up.

"Let’s get this over with."

    We had to make three trips from her house to mine, carrying her things. After everything was in my family room, we plopped ourselves on the couch.

"I think I burned a thousand calories," I said.

"That’s all?" Amy asked. "Try a million." I grinned and threw a pillow at her.

"Shut up." I sat up and looked at my best friend. Her eyes were red from crying earlier and all I wanted to do was kiss her. The contact we shared earlier after school had me craving more, but I kept that to myself. I put my hands under her shoulders and pulled her head onto my lap. Her green eyes locked with mine. The little specks of blue that were usually in them weren’t there today. I wanted to bring the lively color back.

"You look really nice today," I blurted out.

"Please, save it. I look and feel like a mess." I scoffed as she sat up. I shook my head and sat criss-cross applecross to face her.

"Trust me, I would tell you if you looked bad," I joked. She didn’t smile.

"You’ve never told me that, so I think you’re lying." I raised an eyebrow.

"I don’t think you’ve ever looked bad," I said softly. The corners of her smile slowly curved up. "There’s that smile." She shyly put her head down, staring at the floor. I put a finger under her chin to tilt her head up.

"The smile only you can put on my face," she said. That little comment made my heart swell. I had mixed feelings about the way she made me feel, but now they were clear. I loved my best friend. The only think that confused me was my attraction to Liam. The thought of being bi-sexual had crossed my mind before, but I had always dismissed it. Maybe. Amy broke my train of thought with her lips. She kissed my forehead then cheek. Her hands were around my neck, pulling me towards her. I knew she was only doing this because she needed something to distract her from reality, but I wanted to be as close as possible. I threw myself over her, knocking her onto her back.

"Remember last year when I told you I wanted my first time to be special?" I asked her, trying to catch my breath.

"Mhm," she muttered.

"I want it to be with you." She paused for a second.

"On your family room couch? That’s really special." My two hands were on either side of her head.

"Anywhere with you is special." She let out a laugh and smiled at me. Real this time. As much as I liked seeing her white teeth, I slammed my lips to hers. ‘Slammed’ sounds kinda harsh but I couldn’t describe it accurately with another word. I was so urgent for her touch. For her everything. My left hand stayed where it was while my other found its way through her golden hair. She put her hands against my stomach and pushed me away. My heart slumped until her mouth touched my neck. I shuddered at the new sensation.

"Your mom can walk in any second," she said, against my neck. I shut my eyes.

"I don’t care," I mumbled. Suddenly, I felt cold. Amy moved away.

"Well I do. I don’t want her to yell at us."

"She doesn’t mind homosexuals," I stated, going for another kiss. Amy turned her head and cleared her throat.

"But did you tell her about us?" The way she said us made me wish we were really together. In a normal relationship.

"I told both of my parents."

"What?" Amy shouted. I put a finger against her mouth.

"They’re totally okay with it. They just want us to send pictures of us together so they can send it to the Peace Core." Amy sighed and shook her head.

"For Zen?" I nodded.

"Being a lesbian totally beats him as our parents’ top priority."

"Too bad you aren’t a real lesbian." I rolled my eyes.

"We can finish this another day," I said, pouting. Amy’s thumb glided across my lips. She gave them one last peck before getting up.

Chapter Three- No Sexual Interact..?

Amy’s POV

     Karma and I decided to let our little fight in the nurse’s office go. We walked out to the quad arm in arm. She wanted to find Liam so I decided to help her. I still didn’t like him, but as long as Karma did, he was fine. After a few minutes, I spotted him at a table with some girls. I nudged Karma and pointed at him. A warm smile made its way to her face. I wished I was the reason for that smile.

"See you in PE?" Karma suggested. I was A little sad because she didn’t ask me to come with her, but I nodded.

"Thanks, babe," she said, loud enough for Liam to hear. He turned to us and flashed Karma his white teeth. She tippy-toed and pressed her lips against my cheek with a wink. My face got hot.

"Don’t forget your blanket for PE," I said, trying to sound casual. She laughed and skipped over to Liam.

     The bell rang and I gave a sigh of relief. Finally, dodgeball was over. The team I was on lost two times out of two. I started for the girls’ locker room and held the door for some people. I spotted Karma on the other side of the gym, talking to Liam. We made eye contact and she put up one finger, telling me to wait. I frowned and slouched against the door. I ended up holding the door for everyone waiting for Karma. She jogged over to me and we went in.

"What’s up?" Karma asked with a grin. I just shrugged and sat on the bench. I wasn’t in the mood to change out of my stinky gym clothes. Her eyebrows knitted together in an adorable way.

"Are you okay?" She quickly got change and sat down with me. She put her arm around my shoulder and looked concerned.

"I’m fine."

"Come on, do you really think I’m that stupid? Just tell me what’s bothering you." I shook my head.

"Pl-" The bell cut her off and I was already out the door. I bolted to my locker and got my stuff. I am so done with you throwing yourself at Liam for him to notice you.

Karma’s POV

     Amy sped out right when the bell rang and was already at her locker. She slung her backpack over her shoulder and headed for the main doors without looking back. I ran to my locker, got packed, and followed. She took out her phone and dialled a number. I watched her mouth move, but I wasn’t close enough to hear. She hung up and sat down at the curb. I started to approach Amy until I saw Liam wave to her. I stopped dead in my tracks and hid behind a car next to them.

"Hey, are you taking the bus?" He asked. She shook her head and pointed to her phone.

"Just called my mom to pick me up." He nodded, but looked confused.

"You aren’t gonna go home with your girlfriend?" She sighed.

"I have to be honest with you, Liam. I don’t like you very much, but you should know something," she started. My stomach churned and I knew what she was doing. She was gonna tell him that we were faking it. That we aren’t lesbians. She drew in a shaky breath and played with her hands. I was about to stop her but she said it.

"Don’t break Karma’s heart." Liam was silent for a few moments.

"Alright and I won’t get in the middle of your relationship, but are you suggesting a threeway relationship?"

"I guess. I don’t really like it, but I think Karma wants to give you a shot. We have an open relationship." Liam smiled.

"Okay then." He leaned in closer to Amy, but she held him back.

"Wait. No. I’m not gonna… Interact with you in a… Sexual way." He laughed and moved away. 

"Sorry," he said. "bye then." 

"Wait. Can you keep this on the down low? Karma is my girlfriend and I don’t want people to question that."

"Of course, but don’t expect me to keep anything from Shane."

"I guess you could tell him," she agreed. He nodded, got up and awkwardly left. Amy stayed down, staring at the pavement. I got up from behind the car. I tapped her shoulder and she jumped to her feet, turning around. Her jaw dropped when she saw me.

"I heard what you just told Liam." She began to stutter, but I stopped her with a smile. "Thank you!" I wrapped my arms around her.

"You’re welcome?"

"You’re the best girlfriend ever," I said, excitedly. I finally have a chance with Liam Booker thanks to Amy!

Amy’s POV

     I nervously hugged Karma back. I was just glad that she was happy. But I’m not sure I was actually happy. She pulled away and tilted her head.

"Now what’s wrong?" She wiped my eyes and her finger was wet. I didn’t know I was crying. Karma moved my head up and made me look into her beautiful eyes. I couldn’t keep eye contact so I looked at her nose, but then I saw her lips. Those soft and pink lips of hers. I stared at them, not paying attention to anything else. I put my hand on her cheek and leaned in. I don’t know why, but I just did. I hesitantly kissed her. She didn’t move for a few seconds which made my heart beat fast. It beated even faster when she nibbledmy bottom lip.

"You might miss the bus," I said. My voice was a little muffled. 

"I don’t care. I’ll have our boyfriend drive me home." I ignored her comment and drew in a shaky breath, walking us to the brick wall behind us. She put her hands on my waist. I held her against the bricks and pulled away. I rested my forehead against hers and the corners of her mouth turned up. She pushed a piece of my hair behind my ear.

"You put up a good show," she whispered. I was confused and looked over to my right. A few guys were staring in awe. I’d forgotten about our classmates, but I didn’t care. I just wanted to kiss her again.

"Well, show’s not over," I said, pressing my lips to hers again. My head was spinning and I felt like I could come apart in Karma’s arms. I know I’m too young for a heart attack, but I think I was coming close to one. Her hands roamed down to my back pockets, sliding them in. I tensed at that, but continued kissing my best friend and fake girlfriend. Just as I was about to pull away again, a car horn honked. We broke apart by the surprising blare. The honk came from a silver minivan. The type mother’s drove. Kind of like my mom’s. Well. It was my mom’s car. I knew by the cross she had hung up, signifying her religion, which was Christianity. Perfect. I pushed myself away from Karma and ran to the car.

Chapter Two- Peanut Bitter to My Jelly

     ”Let’s have lunch outside. Like a picnic, since that’s what couples do. I’ve got a blanket.” Amy laughed and agreed. She took her lunch and followed me outside to the grass. I took out the blanket and smoothed it over the grass.

"Is that a blanket for naps in the locker room?" Amy said. I blushed and nodded.

"You know me too well." I took out my salad and started eating it. I felt Amy’s eyes on me.

"What?" I asked. Her eyebrows furrowed.

"Are those peanuts?" She pointed at my salad that was sprinkled with a handful of chopped peanuts.

"No…" I bit my lip and felt bad for forgetting about her allergy. I even ate peanut butter covered apples this morning and drank peanut tea. I was craving it for some reason. Then I remembered.

"Sorry, Liam gave me half of his PB&J sandwich. It was really good!" Thinking about Liam made me grin. Amy, on the other hand, frowned. As if cued, Liam, Ivy and Shane came over.

"Look at the cute couple," Shane chirped. I looked at Amy. A small crowd started to gather and she looked around. She stood up and pulled Shane to the side. I couldn’t hear then, but Shane nodded. She returned and took my hand. Everyone started chanting ‘kiss’ and a circle was formed around us. Liam was smiling and that automatically encourage me.

"I guess we have to give the crowd what they want," Amy said. She leaned in and captured my lips with her. A million thoughts ran through my mind like, ‘why is she so willing to kiss me’ or ‘why am I enjoying this as much as I enjoy kissing Liam?’. One thought stood out in particular. ‘I just ate peanuts and Amy’s allergic to peanuts.’. I didn’t notice I was kissing her back so I stopped with my lips still attached to hers. I pushed her back and tried to catch my breath.

"Amy, you idiot! I ate peanuts!" Her eyes widened and she bolted up. She took her napkin and started wiping her lips vigorously.

"Oh my God!" The crowd quickly left us alone, going their way. I grabbed her wrist and pulled her into the building, looking for the nurse’s office. I wanted to get her safe before any side effects happened. They usually showed up on her within five minutes.

     We got to the nurses office and I frantically stepped through, still dragging Amy behind me. I knocked on the nurse’s door and saw a note. Out for lunch. Be back at 1:30 :) I looked up at the clock and it was 12:55.

"Karma," Amy breathed. The hives were on her neck and face. Her lips looked a little swollen.

"Don’t talk you idiot!" I put her down on a chair and looked through the nurse’s desk.

I couldn’t find any epinephrine anywhere after a minute. I started panicking and hugged Amy.

"I’m so sorry for eating peanuts and kissing you. Even though you kissed me. But still," I said, flustered.

"Calm down, Karma. I injected myself with epinephrine when we walked in." My mouth fell open.

"And you didn’t tell me?" I yelled.

"You told me not to talk." I managed a weak smile. This girl had me worried! I huffed and sat down with her. I put my arm around her shoulder and already noticed her face coming back to normal.

"I remember when we were like 5 and you gave me half your sandwich that had peanut butter in it. Your reaction was exactly the same." I grinned and sighed.

"Yeah, me too. I told Liam that I went a decade without peanuts because of your allergy." Liam. Maybe he was worried about Amy. I should go find him. I should talk to him. I got up and helped Amy.

"Lets go find him now!" I took her hand but she didn’t move.

"Can’t you just focus on me for once without the thought of Liam distracting you? You barely know him!" Amy looked angry and she backed away from me. I scoffed.

"That’s why I’m gonna get to know him." I said, raising my voice. "Not everything is about you, Amy."

"That’s funny. I was just gonna say that to you," she retorted. I gasped and shoved her against the wall.

"It’s true! I never wanted to fake being a lesbian, but I wanted you to be happy!" I clenched my teeth and stared at her.

"Shut up! You just don’t understand! He’s perfect."

"No ones perfect, Karma. You’re just blinded by his looks. I don’t want you to get hurt."

"If you were a real friend, you would be happy for me," I growled. She froze.

"Karma," she said softly. "Let go of me." I didn’t realize my hands were tightly around her wrists. I immediately loosened my grip. She took her hands back and there was A red mark where I was holding.

"I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to," I said, calming down. I felt guilty. Amy looked at her feet and leaned against the wall.

"I know you didn’t," she whispered, pulling me in for a hug. We stayed there, just holding each other. "I forgive you." We pulled away and she kissed my forehead. The anger I was feeling was flushed out by her affectonate action. I have always appreciated her forgiving personality.

"So. What did you say to Shane earlier?"

"I asked him to pretend to be my date so my mom doesn’t get suspicious."

"Smart," I said.