Rumours seem to be spreading

The rest of the afternoon classes blur past in a haze of anxiety. Every time someone laughs in the hallway you flinch thinking its about you. By the final bell youre practically sprinting to your locker to grab your stuff and get the hell out before anything else can go wrong.

Youre twisting the combination when Jess appears out of nowhere leaning against the lockers next to yours. Shes got her backpack slung over one shoulder and that shy little smile she always wears around you. Her cheeks are already pink which makes your guard go up immediately.

Hey Joe she says voice soft like she doesnt want anyone else to hear. Can we talk for a sec? Its kinda private.

Your heart does a weird flip. Part of you wants to bolt but another part the stupid hopeful part wonders if this is finally your shot with someone. You nod and close your locker quieter than necessary.

She glances around making sure the hallway is clearing out then steps a little closer. Look I dont want to make this awkward but in gym today I um I saw something. When you were on the floor. Those shorts rode up and there was this flash of pink? Like really bright pink.

She bites her lip looking equal parts embarrassed and curious. I mean I could be wrong it was super quick but it looked like maybe underwear? Girls underwear? And then Mike was being a dick about it so I figured Id ask you directly instead of letting rumors get weird.

Your mouth goes dry. Shes standing close enough that you can smell her vanilla shampoo and her green eyes are locked on yours waiting for an answer. You could laugh it off say it was a prank or laundry mixup or literally anything but the words stick. Instead you feel heat crawling up your neck.

Its not what you think you mumble forcing a weak chuckle. Just uh borrowed something by accident this morning. Long story. Dont worry about it.

Jess tilts her head studying you. Okay but youre blushing so hard right now its kinda cute. She pauses then adds quieter if you ever want to talk about it for real Im here. No judgment. Promise.

Before you can respond footsteps echo down the hall. Mike and two of his football buddies saunter up slowing when they spot you two. Mikes grin is pure trouble.

Well well he drawls looking between you and Jess. Am I interrupting a little heart to heart? Joe you finally making your move or what? Cause if youre busy confessing your secrets maybe save some for the locker room next time princess.

His friends snicker and one of them elbows Mike. Dude leave him alone hes probably still recovering from that wardrobe malfunction.

Jess frowns stepping half in front of you like shes ready to defend you. Back off Mike. Not everything is your business.

Mike raises his hands mock innocent. Just looking out for my boy here. Dont want him getting too comfortable around the ladies when hes got such delicate tastes in undies. He leans in closer voice dropping. Word spreads fast Joe. By tomorrow half the team is gonna know you showed up to gym in Chantelles panties or whatever the fuck that was. Good luck explaining that one when youre trying to get laid this year.

He laughs and claps you on the shoulder hard enough to sting then walks off with his crew still chuckling. Jess turns back to you eyes wide.

Is that true? she whispers. Was it Chantelles?

You dont answer right away because what the hell do you even say. The hallway feels ten times smaller now and all you can think is how Mike just planted the seed for something way worse to grow.