"Oh my gosh, is it really you?"

"Oh my gosh, is it really you?" I stared at an equally shocked face, one that I thought I will never see again in a million years.

He has grown so much taller. His hair cropped and neat -- like he just finished military school. His body a lot more broader and muscular, I must say. His muscles flexed in a two-size-too-small shirt. He had abs and was well toned. I noticed he had a piercing on his right ear, absolutely hot. And I noticed a tattoo under his left wrist that said "3STM" -- he still loves that band. But one thing I know, he is nothing like the guy that left me heartbroken five years ago.

I remember that fateful morning, it was our third year anniversary for being together. I had planned the most unforgettable third year anniversary surprise for him. I just knew it was going to be perfect. Little did I know...

I woke up to a beautiful morning, the sunlight was shining on my face through the blinds in my room. I stretched and breathed in a whiff of fresh morning air -- nothing could spoil my mood today. As soon as I finished my breakfast, I drove my way to the florist to pick up the roses I have ordered.

"There you go, two dozen roses. Pink, red, white, and everything you asked for." the florist wrapped it up and passed them to me.

"Thank you!" I paid the money and left.

I knew where he always goes to in the morning so I drove to this little shed where he and his band have their practise. He gave me an extra key for the shed so I could go in whenever I wanted.

I walked in and closed the door behind me. I sighed, there's a lot of work to do.

I had packed lasagna and meatloaf -- his two favourite food -- the night before for our date later. I set a table and placed it on top. A table for two. I had brought a mat where we could lie down after the meal. I prepared an album full of his favourite love songs and played it in a player. I set some roses on the table and mat and then sprinkled the rest on the floor. I closed the curtains to create a romantic ambience and then I slipped into a dress which I bought specially for this occasion. It was bright red, short and skimpy. I put on some bright red lipstick and waited for him to arrive. I was ready to roll.

Ten minutes later, I heard the rumbling of the engine of a truck. I scurried to the other door and waited to surprise him.

The door opened.

"Why hello there, sexy." I said in a deep low voice. I was feeling sexy, alright?

He stared at me for two seconds and said, "Baby, I love you, but we're over." and without any explanation, he just walked out and left me there -- speechless, dumbfounded, numb and confused.

I thought he'll turn back and hug me and squeeze me and say that he was just joking. It didn't take me four seconds to realize he was serious. I looked around at the room I just decorated for him, so much for the perfect day. The second he left my life, I could feel my life slowly slipping away. I knew I wouldn't get over him. Since then, I've never seen him again until...

We stared at each other for at least a whole minute. Neither of us spoke. Should I walk away? Talk to him? Ask him why he left me without any reasons. So many questions I had for him but I never really thought I would have the chance to ask him.

"It's Julia, right?" he finally broke the silence.

I gave him one final cold stare and decided to walk away.

"FYI, it's Julie." showed my talk-to-the-hand sign and left him there -- speechless, dumbfounded, numb and confused -- how he left me five years ago.

Oh yeah. I so totally gotten over him.

JOANNA - Just Can't Get Enough

Piper's a Pisces.

And Pisceans are not that loyal when it comes to love. They have to be always kept interested and when they're not, you're out of their game of love. Yep, they're just that demanding.

Piper had her fair share of crushes and heartbreaks. She's never really been in a real relationship before. But she's been in tons of flings. Those relationships that only last a month or two. Well, what can I say? She's a Pisces.

But currently, she's single and available.

She doesn't like to brag, but she doesn't get why guys are attracted to her. When she sees herself in the mirror, all she sees is a brown-haired girl with freckles on her cheeks. She is only an ordinary girl, nothing extraordinary. Or is it the way she rolls? The way she struts her stuff in skinny jeans? The way she flips her hair when she's sweaty? The way her lips curve to form a smile? If she was a guy, she wouldn't date herself. She doesn't get what guys see in her. But trust me, she loves the attention.

Then there's Zack. A shy guy Piper met in a volunteer program. Shy, at least that's what Piper thought. But mind you, this guy's anything but shy.

After knowing each other for only three weeks, they started texting and chatting with each other. And so Piper thought Zack's a pretty fun guy to be with. He makes her laugh, and he just seem to know what she's thinking. And guess what? He wears skinny jeans too!

Piper knew that sooner or later, she'll fall for him because this guy's just so dang funny.

***

Hey! What's in the house? ;)

Zack sends Piper a text.

Hey back! The house has chairs and a table, an old television set, an antique clock and stairs leading upstairs and windows. =)

After deliberate thought, Piper replies.

Haha... I didn't mean that house. But ok, mine too! =P Anyways, I was thinking, when's your birthday?

Zack replies an hour later.

Ooo... Planning a surprise party for me? =D

Piper smiles and presses 'send'.

Owh man! I was planning to, but you ruined my plans by saying that! *pouts and frowns. So when is it? =D

Zack sits in the corner of the room as he waits for her reply.

Really? Oh man! Fine. It's on the 13th February. So, I'll be waiting for my surprise party next year! =P

Piper cannot believe they're flirting.

It's before Valentine's Day! Sure, you'll get the BEST birthday party ever! And the BEST Valentine's Day too! ;)

Zack's heart skips a beat.

Can't wait then! ;)

Piper replies and goes to bed, beaming from ear to ear, and dreaming about the day when she gets to see him again.

***

She knew it.

Why do funny guys have to attract her so much? She loves it when he makes her giggle; she loves it when he gives her a totally unexpected answer; she loves it that he can still crack a joke when it comes to serious matters; she loves it that he made her fall for him.

Piper shakes her head and mutters, History is SO gonna repeat itself.

Piper logs onto Facebook and posts something.

"History is SO gonna repeat itself, but I'm willing to take the chances. Because boy, I just can't get enough of you. <3"

Five minutes later, Zack Martin, Piper Philips and 21 others like this.

THE END! ;)

JOANNA - "It's A Promise..."

"When I grow up, I want to be an astronaut so that I can ask the moon why it only comes out at night." the little girl of six years tells her best friend. She smiles at the moon, "What about you?"

"I want to be the President, and then I'll hire the best chef to cook the best potato salad ever! I'll be treated like a king." the little boy says as he nods and smiles cheekily.

"Presidents don't do that." she replies.

"Then what do they do?" he asks.

"Sign papers." she guesses.

"That's boring." he shrugs and adds, "Then I want to be a billionaire so that I can buy myself a G6 and fly all over the world."

"And we'll fly to the moon together?" she asks softly.

"It's a promise." he grins.

***

"Hey Chad! Leopard prints or stripes?" Amanda asked, she couldn't decide which one was sexier.

"Why does it even matter? It's just an undergarment. No one is going to see anything, whether it's leopard prints or stripes." the blue-eyed mohawk dude or Chad, replied.

"It matters to me, OK? So come on, which one?" she said, impatiently.

Chad made a disgusted look and said, "The leopard print one." I really need to find some guy friends, he thought to himself.

"Nah, I think I'll get the stripes!" she chirped.

Chad rolled his eyes, "And I wonder why she asked me."

"I needed a guy's opinion." she chortled.

"Hmph! Girls." Chad snorted. "So has anyone asked you out for prom yet?"

"A few." Amanda smirked.

"Wow, didn't know you were that attractive." he teased.

"Well apparently, I am." she said, as a matter-of-factly.

"So, who are you going with?" he asked, half hoping that she hasn't chose anyone yet.

"I don't know." she gazed into his blue eyes. "The right one hasn't asked me yet."

"Oh." he answered curtly. Did she meant me?

"What about you?" she asked.

Chad shook his head.

"You're shaking your head because you're not going or you haven't asked anyone yet?"

"I haven't asked anyone yet." he answered shyly.

"You kiddin' me?" she narrowed her eyes, half hoping that he really hasn't ask anyone yet.

"I'm shy, OK?" he admitted.

"Whoa, seriously? You have a mohawk! You're not supposed to be shy!" she exclaimed. "Come one, I'll teach you. Say this after me. 'Will you go to the prom with me?'"

"Will you go to the prom with me?" he repeated.

"Got it?"

"Got it. I'll ask her now."

"Yeah! You do that!" she said.

"Amanda, will you go to the prom with me?" Chad asked, blushing.

"Now that wasn't so hard, eh?" she sneered.

***

It's already midnight. But the voices of the two best friends chatting on the balcony echoed in the silence. It was a full moon -- beautiful.

"Look at the moon. It's so beautiful." Amanda said in awe.

"Yeah. But not as beautiful as you." Chad said.

Amanda smiled, "Remember when we were six, I said I wanted to be an astronaut to ask the moon why it only comes out at night? It sounds so silly saying it out right now. But I was so serious then."

"And I wanted to be a billionaire!" he said childishly.

"No, you wanted to be a President first, but then you said it was boring signing papers all day, then you changed your mind and wanted to be a billionaire." she corrected.

"To buy a G6." he continued.

"And we'll fly to the moon together." they said at the same time.

They laughed.

"Hey, I wanna show you something." Chad grabbed her hand.

"Show me what?"

"You'll see. Close your eyes."

He knew it wasn't like the G6 he promised 10 years ago. He knew it was impossible to fly to the moon, but it was still a promise.

"OK, you can open your eyes."

"Oh my gosh! That's a Ducati!" Amanda chirped.

Right before her eyes were the coolest thing she ever seen in her entire life. The Ducati was black, and the light reflected on its shiny surface. The seat was made of leather, it was smooth and glossy. And right on top of the seat were two helmets. Of which, one was particularly smaller and feminine than the other.

"I got it for my birthday. 'twas my dad's." he said. "Look, I know it's not the G6 I promised, but I hope you can ride it with me... to wherever we both want to go." he smiled and handed her the smaller helmet.

"It's a promise." she took the helmet and carefully placed it over her head.

"To the moon!"

THE END. =)

JOANNA - This L.O.V.E ~ E - Epilogue

First time reading this story? CLICK HERE FOR PART 1

Honestly, I never thought this day would ever come. The day where I finally fulfilled my mother's wish of bringing a girl home.

"Jeremy, she's the most angelic person I've ever seen!" my mother exclaimed while taking Whitney's hand.

"Mom!" I whined.

"That's okay, Jeremy." Whitney said, "And you, Mrs Thompson, is the sweetest woman I've ever met!"

"Aww! You." my mother pinched Whitney's cheek. "Come, make yourself at home."

"Sure." Whitney said. "Your mom's...interesting." Choosing her words wisely.

"I'm sorry. She still thinks I'm her little boy." I apologized. I took her hand and led her to my room. "Welcome to my sanctuary."

"Wow. It's my first time in a guy's room." she said. "And it's not as bad as I thought it'll be."

"You think all guys' rooms are messy? Wait till you see my sister's. I tell you there are species in there that are still unknown to mankind." I said.

She chuckled. "I have to admit that your sister and I are quite alike."

"Really? Wow Whitney. Remind me not to go to your room the next time I visit your house." I teased.

"You!" she started poking my hip.

I laughed and hugged her as we fell on the floor together.

"Why didn't I like you before?" she tugged my hair behind my ear.

"Because you never noticed my macho-ness." I smirked, putting a bad boy look.

"Oh puh-lease." she continued poking my hip.

"Stop that! That's ticklish!" I exclaimed.

"Right. So much for being macho!" she rolled her eyes.

I giggled. And that's not really what I'll do in front of anybody, let alone my girlfriend.

"I like your laugh." she said, leaning in closer.

"I like the way you lean in closer to me." I leaned closer. Our faces only an inch away.

"I like the way we kiss." half an inch.

"I like everything about you." then, we kissed. The kind of kiss where the hero and the heroine kisses at the end of a movie. The perfect kiss. Just the way I always thought it would be.

Boo-ya!

The End ;)

JOANNA

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JOANNA - This L.O.V.E ~ E - End

First time reading this story? CLICK HERE FOR PART 1

So, I went to college and tried to lead a new life. I met new friends, took up extra courses, started a new hobby but I can't seem to forget the one person I wanted to forget so badly.

I know Whitney is somewhere out there with Jeremy. I should have known. The way she gazed into his eyes that day, I knew that that was a gaze only for him. Because I've never seen that before.

I shouldn't have took things too fast. It's my fault I lost her. It is indeed a great loss. Being with Whitney made me feel so happy. The kind of joy I never had before. When I was down, she knew how to turn my frown into a smile. When she laughed, it's like the whole world's laughing with her too. Everything seemed so natural. She was one of a kind.

But Jeremy deserved her more. He'd loved her eversince third grade. He knew every part of her. Even the tiniest detail which some people might overlook. He knew what to do when something happened to her. He was a much better guy for Whitney than I am. I felt jealous of what she has. Jeremy was like her guardian angel. Maybe someday I'll be someone's guardian angel. And someone else will be jealous of us. For now, I'm happy for them.

"Oops! I'm so sorry! I didn't see you!" a girl apologized.

Deja vu. I thought to myself. "No, no! My fault for not concentrating on the road." And then I helped her pick up her books which were scattered everywhere.

"Thanks." she smiled. "Emily."

"Kevin." I helped her up. "You're new here?"

She nodded. "Law. You?"

"Wow." I said, impressed. "Architecture. Basketball ain't my thing after all."

"Ah, I get it. You're the basketball team captain and everyone's placed high hopes on you. You train and practise all day and night. Thinking that basketball's your thing. But suddenly, you just lose your interest." she shrugged.

"How did you know?" I asked.

"Cause I was the head cheerleader." she answered.

"Wow. Head cheerleader does law. Impressive." I said.

"And the team captain does architecture. Double impressive." she added.

"Say, why not you join me for lunch. And we'll see what else we have in common." I suggested.

"I say yes." she agreed.

Well, let's just say I got lucky...twice.

JOANNA

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JOANNA - This L.O.V.E ~ E - Elimination

First time reading this story? CLICK HERE FOR PART 1

That very moment, I felt like crying. Because crying seemed like the best way out. I didn't want to choose between two amazing guys. They were both different in their own special way!

"Go for Kevin!" some shouted. "Go for Jeremy! He loved you longer!" another group shouted.

I couldn't breathe. This drama was too much it made me hyperventilate. And I haven't even got an attack for years already!

"She's having an asthma attack! Move out, people! Give her some space!" Jeremy started shouting hastily.

"Hey Mr Popular! Don't just stand there! Do something! Don't you know Whitney has asthma?" he shouted to Kevin.

"I didn't." Kevin replied.

By that time, I've been hyperventilating so much till I couldn't stand still. I started to feel dizzy. I had to sit down. And I started to breathe slowly and deeply, the way my doctor used to teach me when I was younger.

"Are you okay?" Kevin touched my forehead.

"She's not having a fever, for goodness sake! She needs this." Jeremy took out an inhaler and placed it in my mouth to slow my breathing. I wonder how he got it since I no longer bring it around with me anymore. My breathing slowed and it became even a short while later. I could finally breathe normally but my head was still dizzy. I decided to shut my eyes. Also, at the same time, listen to whatever the boys have to say.

"She's going to be all right, right?" I heard Kevin asked.

"I hope so. Let's bring her to the nurse's room." Jeremy suggested.

I felt my body was lifted and supported by two pairs of hands. It doesn't feel good at all to have two guys fighting for you. Surprisingly, they helped each other to get me to the nurse's office.

"You know so much about her." thinking I was unconscious, Kevin decided to start a conversation.

Jeremy smiled to himself. "I guess it's because I've loved her so long."

"And I supposed you bring the inhaler with you everyday, because of her." Kevin guessed.

Jeremy's smile widened, "She hasn't got an attack for years, so she doesn't bring her inhaler anymore. But you never know what will happen, right?"

"Like us talking to each other." Kevin replied.

"Yeah." Jeremy answered.

"Oh no! What happened to her? Come on. Quickly settle her on a bed." the nurse -- Mrs Bunnet said with concern.

They laid me down on the bed gently. And Mrs Bunnet began taking my temperature and everything else nurses do to their patients.

"It was nice talking to you. Jeremy." Kevin held his hand out, hoping for a handshake.

Jeremy shook his hand and said, "Yeah. Me too. Kevin."

"Then she's all yours." Kevin surrendered graciously. "Goodbye, friend."

"Thanks. And bye." Jeremy grinned and turned his attention back to me as soon as Kevin left the room. "Is she okay?"

"Yeah. She's fine. She just needs rest." Mrs Bunnet answered.

"Hey." I called out.

"Mrs Bunnet said you're gonna be okay." he said.

"I know. I heard." I admitted.

"Wait, so you heard everything? What I said to Kevin?" he asked.

"Everything." I nodded.

"Really? Then I'm sorry if what I said crept you out. Because I really like you and I didn't want anything to hurt you. So I thought I should --" he mumbled.

I touched his hand, "I'll be your valentine."

And then, we both smiled.

JOANNA

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JOANNA - This L.O.V.E ~ V - Valentine's Day

First time reading this story? CLICK HERE FOR PART 1

It has been exactly 3 months since we kissed. Since then, I had my doubts on whether I should continue seeing Kevin. He's sweet and nice and all but he took things too fast, that's why. Plus, he was going to graduate soon. I wouldn't be able to see him that often. I had no idea why I kissed him then. Now, I'm just...torn.

"Hey, Whitney! Guess who I saw standing by your locker?" Amanda smirked.

"Oh no. Kevin?" I cringed. At this point, I really don't understand my feelings anymore. I liked Kevin and thought he was different but after that kiss, I'm at crossed roads.

She shook her head. "Guess again."

Part of me was thankful it wasn't Kevin but part of me - a totally inexplicable part of me - hoped it is Jeremy. Though it's highly unlikely of Jeremy to be standing near any part of me and my stuff. It's like I have bad breath or something. Nevertheless, I guessed, "Jeremy?"

Amanda's smile widened and she said, "Go look for yourself."

I frowned but obeyed her. As I was on my way to my locker, other students stared at me, some even smiled. Confused and longing to find out the person at my locker, I quickened my pace.

"Whitney." he called.

"Jeremy." I replied. And then he did an out-of-this-world move - he bent down on one knee, pulled out a red rose and smiled. An audience already forming.

"I have waited for a long time to do this. Whitney, I love you. Will you be my valentine?" he held out the rose and looked at me hopefully.

The audience - mostly girls - were sort of on his side, encouraging me to accept until...

"HOLD IT!" a familiar voice shouted from a distance.

"Oh no." I slapped my forehead.

"Whitney." he called.

"Kevin." I said, forcing a smile. The audience was now stunned, they were silent.

"What happened, Whit? We liked each other. And we kissed." he said, emphasizing the last word.

"Kevin, this is not the right time." I replied.

"I love you, Whit. Be my valentine?" and then he knelt down beside Jeremy, who looked like he can rip his head off.

"Whoa. This drama is too much. I gotta go." I felt dizzy, running away from this scene felt like the best thing to do right now.

"No, no, no, no, no..." they both got up.

"You gotta choose between us." Jeremy suddenly said.

"What? Why?" I asked.

"You just gotta do it." he replied and continued in a softer tone, "So that I know where I stand."

I looked at Amanda, she seemed to be enjoying this little drama but gave me an encouraging nod.

Why?!?!

JOANNA

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JOANNA - This L.O.V.E ~ V - Vow

First time reading this story? CLICK HERE FOR PART 1

It was the night of the senior prom. Whitney and Kevin were somewhere in the school auditorium twirling around in fancy clothes. And I was at home, lying on my bed with a temperature of 38 degree celsius. I was sick, lovesick. And there wasn't anything I can do about it.

"Dude! What are you doing?! Your girl is out there with Kevin Gray! And you're here, wasting your time!" Wade just blasted into my room.

"Hi, Wade. Go away, Wade." I said unenthusiastically. I pulled my blanket and sank deeper into my bed.

"Wade." I heard Amanda say. "Hey Jeremy. How are you feeling?"

"I'm asleep. Go away." I fake-snored.

"Fine then." she answered. "But let me tell you this. Whitney will never be yours if all you do is lie here and pretend to be sick! All these years, Wade and I have been coming out with wacky plans for you to talk to her and ask her out. And this is what we get from you? If you really loved Whitney, you would have stopped her from dating Kevin! But you were too scared to face the rejection. Well, you never try you never know, right? And if you really want her to be yours, you wouldn't have given up so easily! Do you really think she's worth giving up so easily? Think about it." and then she stormed off.

"She's right." Wade said and closed the door behind him.

Ouch.

I felt a tear trickled down my face. It landed on my lips. It tasted salty. It hurts. The pain in my chest seemed to be hurting more. I shut my eyes. More tears poured out from my eyes. It stung. The tears kept flowing down till it left a stain on my pillow. They were right.

It has been too long since I've kept this feeling inside me. Too long till I forgotten the reason why I loved her. Loving her was a part of me. And if I let her go, it'll mean I'll be letting go a part of me. It wouldn't be the same anymore.

I had to do something.

My hair? My skin? My looks? My sense of clothing? My grades? My social reputation?

No. If I changed any of that, that wouldn't be me either. I just need to be myself. But being myself would mean making a complete fool of myself in front of her! I can't do it.

But my friends believed that I can do it. They always had my back. Although Amanda was a big fan of Kevin, she still supported me instead of him. Everyone believed that I can do it. Except me.

All I needed was to put a little more faith in myself.

I can do it. I can do it!

I just need a little more time.

And just in case I go back against my word, I, Jeremy Thompson, hereby vow to have Whitney Clinton as my own.

JOANNA

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JOANNA - This L.O.V.E ~ V - Violet

First time reading this story? CLICK HERE FOR PART 1

This year's prom theme was violet. So, the school's auditorium was beautifully decorated with violet streamers, violet balloons and even the flower violet itself.

However, nothing can be more beautiful than Whitney. She was dressed in an elegant violet gown. Her hair was pulled back into a neat ponytail. Her face wore nothing but lip gloss and her cheeks were just slightly blushed pink. When she walked down the stairs, I can't help but feel like I'm the luckiest man on planet Earth.

"You ready?" I winked.

"Nope! Not yet! Just one more picture. Then, she'll be all yours." Mrs Clinton quickly snapped a photo.

"Mom!" she whined.

"Okay, okay! You two have fun!" Mrs Clinton finally allowed us to leave.

"Sorry about that. My mom can get a little too carried away sometimes." she smiled.

"Naw, that's okay. I'm just glad to be with you." I said sheepishly.

She blushed.

"You look really pretty in that gown." I said.

"And you look pretty okay yourself." she teased.

"'Pretty okay'?" I replied. "I'm sure you can do better than that."

She looked at me, head to toe and finally answered, "Yeah, I think I'll stick with pretty okay."

"Okay, as long as you're happy." I grinned.

When we reached the school, we could hear loud music blaring through the radios; seniors running as fast as they can without breaking a sweat to the auditorium; boring teachers whom you always thought had social issues on the dance floor -- everyone was having fun.

"Wow, we're late." I finally said.

"Fashionably late." she corrected.

"I thought I was just 'pretty okay'?" I asked.

"Well yeah, I'm the one who's fashionably late." she winked.

"Anyway," diverting the topic, I added, "You wanna dance?" I held out my hand.

"Yeah, sure. Why not?" she gracefully took my hand.

"Hey, I'm not good at this so forgive me if I did something wrong." I admitted.

"No worries, just follow my lead." she grinned, obviously delighted to be in authority.

She told me to put one hand on her hip and held my other hand. And then we started twirling around in random motion according to the rhythm of the music. She could sense I was nervous but her smile reassured me. I kept glancing down my two left feet for fear I would step her feet, but she kept lifting my chin up and told me to look at her. I did. And everything else blackened out. It was just me and her under the big spotlight. I didn't even care if I danced weird. All that mattered was she was in my arms.

Her sparkling eyes, her irresistable smile...

And right before the music ended, we kissed.

JOANNA

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JOANNA - This L.O.V.E ~ O - Official

First time reading this story? CLICK HERE FOR PART 1

I found her.

My date for the prom.

Whitney Clinton.

Vice President of the Drama Club. Treasurer of the student body council. Spontaneous, funny, outgoing, genuine... you name it. To add a plus point, she's a real beauty too. I wonder why she doesn't have any secret admirers? Well, except for that Thompson guy. Maybe there is, but she just doesn't make it obvious.

"Kevin? You wanted to ask me something?" she looked at me hopefully. Snapping me out of my trance.

"Yeah. Well, er...it's...nah...forget it." I couldn't string a gramatically correct sentence! This girl sure is something. She makes me nervous!

"You sure?" she half-smirked.

"Yeah. I'm sure." I lied, and then turned back to pretend like I'm calling a waitor to prevent her from seeing my flaring nose. That's my weakness. I can't lie without flaring my nose!

"You okay? You seem...nervous." she suspected something.

"Nervous? What?! Why on earth will I be nervous?! I'm fine! Really. You don't have to worry about me. You just worry about yourself. Your beautiful self." I mumbled in one breath. Gosh, that sounds embarassing.

"Okay then, I'll just worry about my beautiful self." she sneered.

"Yup. Correct." I caught back my breath.

Stupid lying and nervous habits...I muttered to myself.

"What did you say?" she lifted an eyebrow.

"Nothing. I said nothing." I replied abruptly. "Waitor! Bill please!"

"Hey Kevin?" she leaned a little closer towards me. "You ARE different. I always thought you were like every jock who only dates dumb blondes. And you wouldn't even care if I existed or not. Guess I shouldn't simply judge a person. But now, I finally saw the other side of you. You're just like every other guy with lying and nervous issues." she smirked.

"What?! Lying and nervous issues?!" I started fidgetting.

"Come on. Spit.It.Out." she emphasized each word.

I stared into her big brown eyes and she was staring back into mine. And then, her lips curved up into a huge grin. Someone once said that a smile is a curve that can set everything straight. They were right. And that was when my courage and confidence came back to me.

"Would you like to be my date to the prom?" I finally spat out the words.

"Now that wasn't so hard, right?" she teased. I really found someone real, thanks to the accident this afternoon. "I would love to."

"Really? Because you don't have to if you don't want to." I said hesitantly.

"Kev, really." she answered confidently. She touched my shoulder gracefully as if to assure me that she wasn't lying.

That splitsecond meant everything to me. That little touch sent me into a frenzy. It was something I've never felt before. I couldn't contain that overwhelming unknown emotion in me. It felt like beautiful butterflies finally free from the coccoons, its wings fluttering so hard as it faces its first encounter with flying.

"Your bill, sir." the waitor snapped me back into reality.

It's official.

I've fallen for Whitney Clinton.

JOANNA

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JOANNA - This L.O.V.E ~ O - Opponent

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Whitney Clinton is the most beautiful girl I've ever met. Eversince third grade, she's just gotten prettier and prettier. When she flashes her drop dead gorgeous smile, I can't help but wonder who's the unlucky one beside me who has to witness me melting. And then get the janitor to wipe me off the floor.

Every part of her screams out 'Beautiful'. Her long brown locks can be used for a shampoo commercial and her perfect teeth can be used for a toothpaste commercial! There's always a sparkle in her eye. She's smart, she's bubbly, spontaneous, she's talented... That's why I fell head over heels for her.

Maybe that's why Kevin Gray is going out with her.

Wade was right, it IS time!

At least it was time. Until the day Kevin Gray decided to spoil the whole picture.

How on earth am I going to compete against Kevin Gray?

That dude is like the star athlete in our school. Every guy, be it younger or older admires him and some even worship him like he's some kind of a Hunk God. I mean, which guy doesn't want to be popular and have all the ladies drool over him? Every guy that exist in this entire universe. Except me. That's what Wade always says. Because I only want Whitney Clinton to drool over me.

But now, she's going out with Kevin Gray.

Kevin Gray versus Jeremy Thompson.

Hmm, I like the sound of that. But why on earth would any girl give up the golden opportunity with Kevin Gray to be with me? I knew this was a battle. Unfortunately, I can't use any weapons, because I have no weapons! I didn't have good looks or that it factor that makes everyone go 'wow'. It was a defeat for me even before the battle. Why would I even bother losing my dignity while I still can save it?

My instincts tell me to just finally let go of her, it's no point loving her anymore. Every second of loving her is only going to result in endless stabs of pain right through my chest. She's just going to be like other girls -- go out, hang out, make out and "BAM!" they're the next it couple. Somehow it always ends up this way, huh?! What happened to the world where mix kids like me finally get the pretty girl? Oh wait, that world never did exist.

To the contrary, my conscience tells me otherwise. My consciece tells me to make that world exist! It's about time someone changed the rules around here! I can't just give up all those years of loving her because of Kevin Gray! If it's a battle Kevin wants, then a battle he shall get!

May the best man win.

JOANNA

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JOANNA - This L.O.V.E ~ O - O.M.G

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"Oh my gosh! Kevin Gray asked you out?" Amanda screamed into the phone.

"For the thousandth time, YES! Kevin Gray asked me out! Is that fact SO hard to digest?" I rolled my eyes. Sure, Amanda is my bestest friend of all time, going through thick and thin with me, backing me up every single time when I'm in need of assistance, but she's still one of those girls who screams at the mention of Kevin Gray.

"What are you going to wear?" she asked, catching her breath.

"Oh please! Amanda Thomas, the fashion sinner, asking me, Whitney Clinton, the fashion diva, what I'm wearing?" I replied.

"Um, yeah?" she answered, a little taken aback. "So what are you gonna wear?"

"Oh, my-- my-- Oh my goodness! I don't know!" I admitted, slightly humiliated. "'Manda, you know I love you! But a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do. I have to go look for the perfect outfit! Sorry, love you but I gotta go!"

"I know. Someday, you'll thank me for being the most awesome friend!" she chirped joyfully.

"Thank you for being the most awesome friend." I said, half-heartedly.

"I know!" she replied, though sensing the half-heartedness in my reply she added, "Love ya too, Whit!"

"Bye!" and we hung up.

"Okay, Whitney Clinton. You're going out with Kevin Gray. You need the most perfect outfit of all time! Something that speaks of casualty because I don't want Kevin to think I'm desperate, but still shows off beauty because I don't want Kevin to think that I don't care." I told myself while looking through my wardrobe.

"You? Kevin Gray? Going out?" the most annoying but most caring elder brother in the whole wide world scoffed.

"Well, as a matter of fact, Brandon, yes. THE Kevin Gray asked me out." I smirked.

"That Kevin Gray has not bad a taste." he sneered.

"Gee, thanks, Brandon. Now, either you help me pick an outfit or you get out of my room, please?" I asked him sternly, then added a courteous 'please'.

"Well, since you asked me so 'politely', I think I'll stay here to find the most perfect outfit of all time. Something that speaks of casualty because I don't Kevin to think I'm desperate, but still shows off beauty because I don't want Kevin to think that I don't care." he replied in a squeaky voice, possibly an attempt to imitate me.

"You know what? Get out!" I pushed him. "Plus, I don't speak like that!"

"Please?" he blinked his eyes three times too much.

"Fine. Stay but shut up." I said sternly, with an air of authority around me.

"Yes, ma'am!" he salluted.

I sighed.

I quickly whispered a prayer because time is really running out for me to find the perfect outfit.

JOANNA

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JOANNA - This L.O.V.E ~ L - Long Talk

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"I'll leave you two alone. But don't talk too long, 'kay?" Amanda smirked.

I rolled my eyes.

"I'm really sorry about the crash." he said while helping me to pick up my books. "I'm --"

"Kevin Gray the Great," I interrupted. "And I'm --"

"Whitney Clinton the Vice President of Drama Club." he smiled.

I creased my brow. "You know me?"

"'Course. You're the girl who acted as Juliet in the school's play last Fall." he answered. "But soft what light through yonder breaks wind. Great stuff, great stuff."

I chuckled. "That's right! I'm the girl! I LOVE that story! William Shakespeare is a genius!"

"Yeah, but it's not my kind of stuff." he shrugged.

"Oh yeah! Basketball, parties, girls..." I said, matter-of-factly.

"Wait, what do you mean?" he asked, slightly confused.

"Not my kind of stuff. I gotta go. Don't wanna be late for class." I forced a smile and started to walk away.

"Hold on there! What's up with the mood?" he asked, shaking his head with confusion.

I turned around. "I don't know. Just trying to make things easier for you, I guess. You're Kevin Gray the Somebody and I'm Whitney Clinton the Nobody."

"Come on, don't say that. You were Juliet in the play!" he said.

"Puh-lease. No one ever shows up for the school play." I sneered. "Look, I don't want to waste my time and yours, so why don't you just stop this stupid charade like you care who I am and just let me go to class peacefully." I smiled with bitter scorn.

"Oh, I get it! You think I'm the kind of guy who ONLY talks to dumb blondes! Just for the record, that is the stupid charade you're talking about! Not this!" he said, his tone five decibels higher. Obviously annoyed with my assumption, he probably get that a lot.

"Really? Prove it, Mr Popular!" I challenged, but with a slightly gentle tone. Then, looking into his mesmerizing blue eyes, I smiled. I could see nothing but pure honesty.

"You know, you've got a pretty smile." he said, flashing his oh-so-hot smile.

"Gee, thanks! How intelligent of you to say something nice about me after a little heated arguement. Now, I have to forgive you." I smiled sarcastically, but dropped the sarcasm when I realized he was actually being honest. "I'm sorry, I'm a jerk."

"Nah, I'm sorry too. For raising my voice." he tucked his mushy brown hair behind his ear.

"Why do we keep apologizing today?" I chuckled.

He laughed sheepishly.

"You're not much like the others, huh? You're actually nice." I admitted.

"Haha, yeah. I guess?" he blushed. Wow! I, Whitney Cliton, made Kevin Gray, blush? "Tell you what? Why don't I pick you up tonight at 7, and we'll have dinner. And you'll find that there's a lot more about me that this world doesn't know about."

"What are you two STILL doing out here? 2 hours of detention after school!" Principal Higgins ordered. "What are you still waiting for? Christmas?! GO BACK TO CLASS!"

"Sorry, ma'am." I quickly made my way to class.

"Wait, is that a yes?" he asked suddenly.

"See you at 7!" I replied, hiding my smile.

Sure, I had detention to serve after class. But after all, it's worth it.

JOANNA

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JOANNA - This L.O.V.E ~ L - Letter

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"Applicants must send in an original essay about 'Biodiversity', closing date is the 25th of November, 2010. Any essays received after the date will not be considered." Colin read out the letter I received from the University of New South Wales, Australia.

"Oh, come on! Easy peasy! Nothing too big for my man, Kevin!" Sean laid his hand around my shoulder while rubbing my head with his other free hand.

"Yeah, yeah!" I shrugged it off.

Will it really be that easy peasy for me - Kevin Gray, to get in? Do I even want to get in? It's ironic that all these years of being so-called 'busy' with basketball, studies and scholarships are finally coming to an end. Graduation is coming soon and my schooling days will be officially over. Suddenly, school counsellors and even Principal Higgins are talking about career choices and different paths that different individuals take. Are they really that concerned with our decisions or are they just hyped up that another badge of students are going to leave the school?

"So, who are you gonna bring to the prom?" Luke suddenly asked.

Right, prom. I rolled my eyes.

Another thing on my list of things to get so-called busy with before graduation. My mom has been fussing over prom eversince the starting of my senior year. She even got my tux ready! But I don't even know if I'm going. It's not like I have someone special to bring with me.

"I have my eyes set on Felicia." Sean said while pointing to a tanned, wavy-haired brunette. She was tall, slim and had a figure that guys drool over. She had a sharp jawline and a pair of adorable dimples. Her eyes were a mesmerizing dark brown. A slender figure plus a breathtaking face makes up one sophisticated Latin beauty. Too sophisticated for the laid-back Sean.

"I've written my speech. Now, I'm working on my intonation. Hopefully, I'll be able to ask her by the end of this week." Sean grinned.

"Well, good luck on that! I'm bringing my girlfriend - Tiffany!" Luke said, with a slight hint of pride.

"Whoa, man! Girlfriend? Since when?" Colin asked.

"Since our first kiss on our first date!" Luke announced, this time, full with pride. Luke can be a snob sometimes. "But enough about me and my date. So Kevin, who's your lucky girl?"

"I don't know. No specifics yet." I answered half-heartedly.

"Yet?" Colin asked, his voice an octave higher, edged with suspicion.

"Nah, I might not even go if I don't find the right one." I said.

"Dude, it's prom! It's your senior year! Any girl would want to go out with you!" Sean exclaimed. "Right, Pamela?" he said while tugging a blonde girl who waved flirtatiously at me.

"Nah, he's joking." I told that Pamela girl before she gets her hopes TOO high. I turned to face them and tried to explain. "I don't just wanna go out with any girl. I want to go out with the girl! Someone who doesn't judge me for my exterior looks and achievements. Someone who sees me for me! A spontaneous, funny, outgoing and genuine girl!"

"I don't know, man! Sounds pretty hard to find someone like that --" Luke shrugged.

"Kev, look out!" Colin yelled suddenly.

Too late. I crashed into someone.

"Oh, I'm so sorry! My fault for standing in the middle of the hallway!" she apologized immediately.

"No, no! My fault for walking backwards!" I apologized too.

And then, for no apparent reason, we both burst out into laughter.

"Someone like her." Colin said.

JOANNA

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JOANNA - This L.O.V.E ~ L - Loyalty

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"Dude, she's at her locker talking to Amanda. Now's our chance to impress both our ladies!" the ever-cheerful Wade chirped while tugging my shirt.

"What?! No!! You remember the last time I tried to talk to her? A fly almost flew into my mouth! That was embarassing!" I shook my head as if to shake off that horrifying thought. Too late, it's already in my brain.

"I can't risk humiliating myself again!" I said.

"Come on, Jeremy! That was last Summer. Besides, you learn from mistakes. So this time, just try to remember to say something after you open your mouth." he patted my shoulder and gave me a light push as if to boost my confidence level.

"Quit pushing me, man! I'm not ready!" I shrugged, trying to make my way to class as hurriedly as possible.

"Then when will you be ready? You've been crushing on that girl since third grade! And we're gonna be seniors next year! It's about time. People are already placing bets on whether you'll still love her next year. You can't afford to be girlfriend-less on your senior year, right? Dude, I know that it's time..." his voice trailed off in a dramatic way and I was left alone.

"Man, I hate it when he's right..." I told myself.

"Wait, what about Amanda?" he must have forgot that it was our chance to impress both our ladies. Besides, I would need a little help trying to get my grammar straight. I turned around but he had already disappeared into the crowd.

"Hey, watch it!" I turned back but collided with someone.

"Oh! It's you, Jeremy! You know, this is the hallway where everyone moves. If not, you might just knock into someone, just like what you did to me!" Amanda babbled.

Time froze.

"I could use an apology here, Jeremy! Hello??" Amanda continued babbling. But her incessant babbling became incoherent murmurings; I could feel my brain not receiving the nerve impulses from the receptors; my senses losing control of what they were created for; my hands stiffened; I held my breath. Everything within a ten-feet radius started to blur out from my sight, everything except for that radiating light around her.

She was in front of me.

"JEREMY!!!" Amanda hollered.

Reality checks back into me.

"We all know that you're in love with my best friend, but do you have to do that dopey look in front of us?!" Amanda whined.

I lifted my shoulders, not once averting my gaze from that beauty.

She smiled.

"There you go again! Come on, let's go! It's no point asking for an apology from a love-sick do-do head!" Amanda stomped her feet and marched off.

She looked at me apologetically, flashed her million-dollar smile and followed behind the angry Amanda, who I think will not talk to me for the rest of the day.

If I die today, I swear I'll die a happy man.

JOANNA

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JOANNA - This L.O.V.E - Introduction

Her name is Whitney. She is a small town girl with BIG dreams. A high-school girl who dreams to be on EVERY silver screen, who aspires to have her OWN fashion line, who hopes to have as MANY best-selling books as possible. She wants to be like her three idols - Jessica Alba, for her stunning looks and outstanding performances she gives every time on set; Victoria Beckham, for launching her own fashion line whilst being the famous footballer's wife; Stephenie Meyer, for her out-of-this-world Twilight Saga which is now a big motion picture. All three of them morphed to make one extraordinary Whitney Clinton! Unfortunately, her friends, and even family, would often discourage her big ambitions because in the small town of Minnesota, dreams like that would often end up shattered and crushed heartlessly. But with sheer determination and perseverance, she believes that ANY ordinary town girl can achieve such a dream! Silently, she fantasizes that her friends will be working for her one day...

His name is Jeremy. He has a VERY complex History of his parental heritage which would sometimes, make him confused too. But at first glance, he looks just like an average black kid. Dark skin, an okay height, curly-haired, brown eyes, broad shoulders... Not the kind of guy every girl would die for, but he's still charming in his own way. His mom, Mrs Thompson who is of Portugese, Chinese and Italian heritage would joke about her husband, of South African and Indian heritage, for being too dark and having stronger genes and therefore Jeremy and his siblings are so dark. And maybe that's why Mrs Thompson assumed is the reason as to why Jeremy NEVER brings back a girl. But in actual fact, the ONLY girl he wants to bring back home is the girl he's been crushing on eversince elementary school. Maybe, just maybe, his mother's wish will come true one day.

Enter the other fella.

His name is Kevin. He is just like every high school jock - Handsome looks, great personality, perfectly toned and muscled body, excelled in both studies and sports, has his little clique of friends... Just like that Troy Bolton in High School Musical. Except that Kevin has two left feet. Now, Kevin Gray IS the kind of guy EVERY girl would die for. What do you expect when you're Mr Popular? Everyone expects the best of everything from you. When you don't, they judge you for your own failures, immediately forgetting all the achievements that you've achieved, and suddenly you're not Mr Popular anymore. Maybe that's why he doesn't really trust his little clique of friends, because some of them are not trustworthy. Sometimes, he just wished that he can stop being the 'It' guy and let someone else be in the limelight. Is he asking for too much?

The world keeps spinning. And so does this love.

JOANNA

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JOANNA - My Best Friend

I love him.

Plucking the petals of the rose he bought me confirmed that I love him. Or is it because I started off with "I Love Him"? But then again, why was I plucking the petals of the rose he gave me? Why did I accept it in the first place?

After I dumped my boyfriend and maybe got rejected once or twice, I told myself not to believe in love again. But he somehow still managed to sweep me of my feet. Or at least that's what they say.

I wasn't head over heels about him, but I definitely cared for him. And I'm sure he cared for me, too. I remember how we called each other names and end up not talking to each other the rest of the day; I remember how he would push me on the swing when I demanded to go higher; I remember how we could find fun in just running around in the porch; I remember how he borrowed his shoulder for me to lean on when I cried; I remember how I would react after he explained the solution to an algebra question. I was dumb; I was mischievous; I was a brat. Yet, he cared for me.

Things were so simple then. We were innocent, vulnerable......naive. But when puberty hit, we both realised that we're not of the same species. Things changed, but we were still close friends.

When I started dating guys, things got even worse. We stopped talking, stopped sitting together during lunch and even stopped acknowledging each other's existence. I don't know why, it just happened. And then I realised it was the cupid's dirty job when I found out he was secretly in love with me. It was because of the innocent four-letter word -- love.

After learning the truth, I decided to completely isolate myself from him. I made sure that I wasn't in the same bus as he is; I made every arrangement I could to make sure he wasn't in the same class as I am; I would avoid the hallway if he was there. I made every effort I could to disappear from his life. He is my best friend. He was my best friend. I couldn't love him that way. I didn't want to love him that way! I never did believe in childhood sweethearts.

Rumours spread that he was dating a freshman when we were sophomores. I was glad. Happy that he found someone who loves him back that way too; happy that I need not break his heart.

Everything was perfectly fine after that. We both somehow moved on to more mature conversations and no-nonsense jokes. Yes, it took me a whole lot of courage to face him and since then, we were buds again. Definitely no more mischievous antics, childish tantrums and pulling pranks on our not-so-favourite teacher. Things were undeniably more careful.

I still borrowed his shoulder once or twice; we still talk on the phone occasionally till late at night until someone dozes off first; he was still the more intellectual one and I was still the more rebellious one. Sometimes I wonder how did I end up being his best friend. We were total opposites, yet, the bestest mates one could ever imagine.

I guess he never did got over me. When I committed myself to my first relationship, he wasn't at all pleased. He didn't like the idea of me having two favourite guys. He wanted to be my one and only favourite guy. It only took me two seconds to realise that he was still in love with me.

God only knows why I broke up with my boyfriend to be with him. I wasn't in love with him at all. I knew I wasn't in love with him at all! But I felt oblige to feel so, we went through so much thick and thin!

The wind blew away the petals that were scattered on the table. I was still holding the stem. I held it to my heart. I let my heartbeat slow. Listening to the rhythm my heart beating, my breathing slowed eventually.

My conscience and I both agreed that he wasn't the one.

I went to my room, picked up the phone and dialled his number.

This is going to be a long night.

-End-

JOANNA