Nicole's POV:

Well, with almost all of the foundation, concealer and facial powder i owned, the bruises on my face were almost invisible. Almost.

Okay, not at all. They were barely concealed, and you could see them practically a mile away. So school was going to be even more dreadful than usual, and I just knew that Oli was going to use it to his advantage. Well... Maybe Andy would stop him from hurting me too badly.

Andy.

I wonder what's going on between us. He didn't even give me his number, probably on purpose. I still don't know where we stand, I mean, sure we've missed, but he probably was just trying to hurt me even more than possible. He'll probably make fun of my now bruised face; hopefully it heals quickly.

---

I made it successfully through first period, even im not entirely sure how, but I dreaded lunch, it was the time I couldn't escape my bully's clutches and they taunted me until I cracked. My least favourite time. I also didn't want to see Andy, joke or not, I cared what he thought of new. And well, a giant bruise on my face wasn't helping my case.

I trudged slowly through the halls, keeping my eyes trained on the ceramic tiles as I walked. Careful to not intercept anyone as I made my way to my second period class. As I turned a corner I accidentally knocked into a tall figure, sending me back a few steps. I mumbled a quick apology, stepping around them, only to be shoved back sharply, sending a shock of pain through my arm.

I winced and the harsh grip was instantly released. I glanced up to see a concerned looking Alex frowning back at me, his eyes focussed on my newly acquired bruises. He tugged me to the side of the hallway and bent down to my level, inspection the wound.

"What happened Nicole?" He asked quietly.

I shrug, not ready to talk about it, shuffling my feet awkwardly when the final bell goes off. I jerk my head up, looking past Alex's figure, and I mutter something about having to get to class, before darting off to second period.

---

Not even fifteen minutes into the class, a disruption gives me a severe headache.

I was doodling in my notebook, only half paying attention, when the door burst open. Andy stood there, scanning the class before his eyes found mine. A look of relief followed by concern crossed his face but the teacher scolded him before he could act on it. He muttered a quick excuse - something about needing to speak with me in private about my 'tutoring' and he whisked me away.

The second the door shut I was in his arms, my head nuzzled against his chest while he stroked my hair. He murmured words of sweetness and calmness, before leading me to a quieter section of the school. I guess he had a spare (free period) as he didn't have class.

When we were a whiles away, he spun around and bent to my level, running his fingers over my cheek softly, stiffening when I visibly winced. he sighed and pulled me back into s hug, kissing the top of my head affectionately.

"What happened Nikki? Why didn't you calm me?" He asked, playing idly with my hair.

I buried my face in his chest, "I didn't have your number. How'd you find out anyways?"

"Alex told me. Why didn't you tell me?" He asked sadly.

I shrugged, "it's no big deal Andy. You aren't my boyfriend, you don't and shouldn't care for me."

He gaped at me and his hold loosened, before tightening again. "Your parents did this to you, it matters. And I should care, since I happen to love you, remember?"

I shake my head, "that's not true."

"Yes it is God dammit!" He shouts, "nothing is going to change that!"

I blink back my tears but some manage to escape, and Andy instantly notices, bringing my back into his arms.

He he kisses my forehead and I can't help but melt a little. Maybe I should give this a chance. Follow my heart.

"Okay?" He asks.

"okay." I nod.

I lean up on my toes and pull his head down to connect our lips.

Notes

okay so I admit I stole that line from the fault in our stars (beautifully tragic book btw) but I felt that it would work in this chapter
just a adorable filler chapter :)

but guys... This is the fourth day this story has been out and almost 30 votes and over 40 subscribers?!?!
EEK! I'm so happy and flipping out!!! Ilysm <333

thoughts on Alex and Nikki? Andy and Nikki? Hell, Oli and Nikki? Maybe he secretly likes her, but since she's younger, he thought it'd be awkward or weird. Hmm, maybe.
nikki's evil parents? I wonder how she'll escape their 'wrath' hehe

love you all so much :')