Mariah doesn't like me.'

I stop chewing my chicken and coleslaw sandwich and look up at Ted. He looks a lot more broken and depressed than usual.

'Sorry about that. I feel bad for-'

'I mean, she prefers older guys.' Ted interrupts me.

'I don't know what the heck she means by that. Probably Nelson. He's also repeated a year like her. Older more mature Nelson who's also some druggie'

I nudge at him as he quietly winces. 'Oi, stop it! If she doesn't like you, then she doesn't like you. Doesn't mean you go around insulting the guys who happen to be her type.'

Ted sulks. 'Sorry'

'I'm not the person to say sorry to. Anyways, I'm heading off. I wish you luck in the moving-on process. Peace.' I stand up and collect my lunchbox and bag, placing them in my backpack.

'See ya, Brooke.'

***

'So, who is the older guy? Nelson?'

Mariah and I are chilling in the library. It's around the study line and I couldn't be bothered to get some work done today. So, gossip was the next best thing.

Mariah faced me and glared. 'What the hell did Ted say?!'

I gulp out of fear for Ted. 'Quiet down, Ms Phoebe isn't gonna let us off this time'

We crouch closer towards each other before I continued. 'He said that you said that you prefer older guys.'

Mariah sighs before taking a drink of her peach-iced tea. 'He's making it seem like having a preference is illegal. I told him the best I can that I only saw him as a friend, and he took that the wrong way.'

I don't respond but rather nod my head in agreement. If I try to start an argument with her, I know for a fact that the librarian will make sure we never appear here again.

'Is there a guy though?' I ask giving her a little curious smile.

'If it makes you feel better then yes, there is.' Mariah smiles slightly before taking another sip.

'Who is it?'

'None of your business, Brooke. I'm planning on taking this one to the grave. Don't try and convince me, otherwise.'

'Why? You don't take this to the grave unless it's embarrassing or.... illegal.'

Mariah hesitates before awkwardly laughing.' Brooke, I'm not stupid. The guy is fine.'

I smile as she takes another sip of her iced tea. I don't mind whatever relationship Mariah is in as long she is happy.

That last thing I want is for Mariah to be dealing with some douchebag....or a creep.