Part 1: Cooper

Nick and I sat at the back of the class, far away from Jasmine and Sara.

“So,” I asked Nick. “What are you going to ask Peggy?”

“Something.” he replied, pulling I was born for this by Alice Oseman out of his bag.

I smirked, thinking Nick would then go on to tell me what he was going to ask Peggy, but he remained silent.

“Are you going to tell me?”

“No.” Nick’s face was emotionless.

“Come on. I’ll just keep asking.” I pleaded.

Suddenly, an idea struck. I prodded Nick on the arm and asked him to tell me. Then I did it again. And again. And again. And ag-

“Alright! I’ll tell you! Just don’t hit me on the arm again!” he exploded.

I sighed with victory. Works every time.

“It’s about you and Jasmine.” he whispered in my ear.

I leaned away from him and stared, wide-eyed, in shock.

I remained this way until Justin started shaking me at the school gate, screaming:

“Cooper! Are you in there? Hello? HELLO?”

I jumped back into life. “I’m here!” I stammered repeatedly.

Justin sighed: “Good. I thought you were dead and I would’ve had to revive you with Hamilton.”

I shivered. “Do not do that to me. Ever.”

He smiled.

“Where’s Nick?” I asked.

“He’s walking home with Peggy. Like he always does today. Remember?”

I nodded. Nick can wait. I’ll go home and relax.

“What did he say to make you so despondent anyway?” Justin asked.

I glanced at Jasmine, Sara and Bridget from across the street. Jasmine caught me staring and glared at me. I mentally breathed. Good. Nothing’s changed. Jasmine and me, will always be enemies.

I smiled at Justin and gave him an answer:

“Nothing.”

“Okay. Cool” He returned my smile.

“Race you to the bus stop? I challenged him.

He laughed: “But my coat! It can’t handle running.”

“You just don’t like losing.” I replied, sprinting down the street, Justin following; both of us laughing.