Gorgeous Geek i

7/28/2019 Gorgeous Geek i

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Gorgeous GeekChapter 1: His Name is Jin

Chapter 1: His Name is Jin

Well?Despite the fact that thin-haired Tiffany Wu had spent the last three years of her life

waking up at around six in the morning and arriving at Wilson High School by six fifteenexact in order to gather data, Tiffany was not satisfied with her collection. Every time theChinese senior glanced at her black binder, she shivered at all the information she mighthave missed out on during winter breaks, spring breaks, and summer vacations. If therewere one thing Tiffany hated more than this ugly school, it was being the last to knowabout the latest gossip or rumor. In other words, Tiffany lived for the latest drama. Shecould not get enough of it.

I have kept watch at the side gates, said Eunice Hong, a Korean junior who had anobsession over ribbons. As a matter of fact, even though she had short hair like a boy, shemanaged to tie them in bright red ribbons somehow. And nothing Tiffy!

Nothing? Tiffany repeated in dismay.

Eunice shivered and shook her head. Not a single hot freshman this year!They are as pitiful as the sophomores then, said Tiffany coldly, tugging onto herlong, straight black hair.

At the moment, Tiffany was sitting on a staircase that had the perfect view of thefront gate. Eunice was standing in front of her, breathless from the running she had donefor the past twenty minutes. This was the area Tiffany and her two friends hung out everymorning because most students entered the school through the front gate. At least, thestudents that mattered to the girls.

Where is Jennifer? asked Tiffany, playing with the cute Winnie the Pooh charm thatconnected to her sparkling pink cell phone.

She should be back any minute now! said Eunice enthusiastically, bouncing on her

feet with her hands behind her back. Any luck on your end Tiffy?None, said Tiffany, rolling her eyes. I hope Jennifer brings us good news.Right when Tiffany mentioned the last of the trio, Jennifer Yang was skipping toward

Tiffany and Eunice. Like always, even though Jennifer had a backpack on her back, shecarried a new reptile-skinned, brown purse at the crook of her arm. Because Jennifer lovedto skip around, she tied her hair back into a high ponytail to keep it from hitting her faceevery few seconds. She owned a silver cross necklace that always hung around her neck.

Hello Tiffy and Eunie! Jennifer greeted, flashing a peace sign with her right hand.Well? asked Tiffany with a repeated question and lifted brows.On my rating scale from one to ten, said Jennifer excitedly, holding up ten fingers.

None of the new freshmen passed a six! Jennifer dropped four fingers with a smile.

Then, said Tiffany angrily, smacking Jennifer on the head with the black binder.Don't sound so happy about it!

I'm sorry Tiffy, said Jennifer with tearful eyes and quivering lips.Poor Jenny, said Eunice softly, rubbing Jennifer on the head in a sisterly way. You

are too in tune with your emotions sometimes.She gave me a false sense of hope, said Tiffany wearily, straightening her precious

binder with her hands. I don't like it one bit.You should be happy Tiffy, said Eunice optimistically, jumping up and down while

Jennifer sat down next to Tiffany. Jennifer was busy wiping her tears with the tissues shecarried in her purse to listen intently. Your love is still the hottest Asian at Wilson High!


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He is not my love, said Tiffany in a deep growl which sent both Eunice and Jennifershivering in fear. However, there was a warm glow to Tiffany's cheeks. I don't want you twoto spread rumors about any of us. Our job is to take information and spread the word toother people. Do both of you know your position?

Yes Tiffy!Besides, said Tiffany softly, placing her head miserably on top of the palm of her

right hand. He doesn't even care about me...Aw Tiffy, said Jennifer, hugging her friend around the shoulders. It's okay.

Eunice went up to her friend and frowned. We're here for you! We love you!Who cares about him anyways? asked Jennifer, looking up and punching a fist into

the air. He is nothing but a-Right then, a Korean boy with straight brown hair in a black t-shirt with the picture

of a Virtual Boy console on it and loose light jeans rambled in from the front gate. He haddark, mesmerizing brown eyes with long eyelashes. Besides that, he had perfect skin- nopimples, acne, or freckles. In the eyes of the three girls, he was a work of art. IfMichelangelo were alive to this day, he would make a sculpture of Jin-Kyong Song.

-a heartthrob, ended Jennifer dreamily.Hi Jin! Eunice cried, jumping up and down like a fangirl.He will always be a 9.5 on my scale, said Jennifer, standing up and waving at Jin.

I love you Jin!How are you Jin? asked Tiffany casually, playing with her hair with shaky hands.Hey girls, said Jin effortlessly, stopping in his tracks in front of them and flashing

them all a soft smile. His eyes were not on them however. What's up?Nothing much, chanted all three girls in unison.How was your summer?Good.Ah, that's good to hear, said Jin quickly, keeping his eyes on the game he was

playing on his black DS lite. He had one hand on the buttons and the other on the stylus.I can't take it anymore! shrieked Jennifer, throwing her arms out. Tiffy likes you!What? No way!Before Tiffany could deny anything, Jin started cursing out loud much to the girls'

surprise. He went up to the nearest wall and started hitting his head against it. Both Euniceand Jennifer ran over to pull their beautiful Jin away from hurting himself.

What's the matter? asked Eunice worriedly, frowning.Did the news really shock you that much? asked Jennifer tearfully, glancing at a

depressed Tiffany back on the staircase.Jin placed his forehead against the wall and closed his eyes. I died again!You died? asked Jennifer, crying loudly now. How? When? Why?Mario died, said Jin, lifting his head from the wall and hugging the DS lite to his

chest. He is such a good man too! He is the reason why I grow to respect plumbers!Who's Mario? asked Eunice to Jennifer, who shrugged. His plumber?I will avenge you, my friend, said Jin, stomping away and leaving the girls behind

with endless questions. We will definitely kill that boss together! We will achieve victorybefore first period!

Jennifer stared after a leaving Jin with a tilted head. Eunice ran back to Tiffany andtold her what happened as if she had not heard it from where she sat. Shaking her head,Tiffany released a deep sigh and placed her head on top of her binder. This happened toooften before to surprise her anymore. Actually, she had probably given up on ever having adecent conversation with Jin. It was simply too hard.

He is always like that, said Tiffany, explaining to the confused Jennifer.


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Mario is probably a video game character, isn't he? asked Jennifer innocently.He is, said Tiffany in response, releasing a second sigh. She played with her Winnie

the Pooh charm again. I swear, if he can marry his Playstation 3, he would.How does that work? asked Jennifer, poking Tiffany in the shoulder.It doesn't, said Tiffany, rolling her eyes at Jennifer and lifting her own head up

high. All he ever cares about are his precious video games, his anime and manga, and hisfantasy novels.

I still love him though, said Eunice, swooning in her seat on Tiffany's other side.

He is exactly my height- 5 feet 9 inches.At least, said Jennifer, ignoring Eunice's usual fangirl remarks and scanning the

front gates with her eyes. Jin is better than Jordan.But I thought Jordan received a perfect ten on your scale, Jenny, said Eunice.I know Jordan is the only boy in school I gave a ten to, said Jennifer, holding up

ten fingers to confirm Eunice's words. But he is definitely worse than Jin.Because he's not Asian? asked Eunice, frowning.That's not the only thing, said Tiffany, standing up now with her black binder

pressed against her chest to observe the area. Jennifer is talking about Jordan'spersonality in general. Speaking of Jordan, what is the latest news on him and Victoria?

They broke up again, said Jennifer, creating a heart with her hands and then

breaking it in half. Jordan and Victoria got into a fight during a beach party I hear.As expected, said Tiffany, opening up her binder and flipping over to the juniors.

They have been on and off since Jordan's freshman year.Then, she took out a glittery pink pen, sat down, and started writing down notes for

Jordan Greene. In her binder, she had a tab for every important person in the school.Jennifer was usually the one who decided who was important enough to be in Tiffany'sbinder by her rating scale. If a boy received a five or higher, he was in the binder. If a girlwere close friends or in a relationship with any of the boys, they were also in the binder. Anorganized person by nature, Tiffany had them all in alphabetical order by first names andlast names too if necessary. She even had the names listed under their respective grades.

For each person, Tiffany and her friends kept important data like birthdays, height,relationships, close friends, family members, and others. If there were any news of abreakup or a new friendship, it would be written down in the binder immediately.Unsurprisingly, Jordan's section was one of the thickest in the entire binder.

In the past, Tiffany used to do this solo. However, by sophomore year, she met twofreshmen who were willing to work with her- Eunice and Jennifer. Ever since then, thethree were inseparable. Eunice and Jennifer were willing to take the same elective classesas Tiffany in order to be in the same classroom as her. The three of them were infamouslyknown as the Asian Gossip Girls.

Question, said Tiffany, finishing the last sentence in her notes about Jordan.Jennifer and Eunice paid full attention to her. Did Jordan find a new girlfriend yet?

I'm not sure, said Jennifer admittedly, holding her hands against her cheeks andshaking her head sadly.

I hate being the last to know, said Tiffany under her breath with a scowl.Look! Eunice pointed in the distance. There is Jordan! We can find out now!Both Tiffany and Jennifer followed Eunice's finger toward a tall Caucasian male with

flowing dirty blonde hair and gray eyes. Jordan Greene was named the hottest male in theirschool by Jennifer for a good reason. Whenever he stood in a crowd, Jordan definitelystood out with his charming smile with dimples and perfect complexion. Other than that,Jordan's skin was of a gorgeous tanned color, which made it obvious to everyone in schoolhow often he surfed.


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Go Eunice, said Tiffany, pushing the short-haired girl lightly. Check up on Jordan.Leave it to me!It did not take Eunice long to make her way to Jordan. Right now, he was chatting to

a couple of Caucasian male seniors before he noticed a girl with long, pure blonde hair in aminiskirt passing by. Jordan glanced at her behind once before he licked his lips and toldthe other guys that he had something he must attend to immediately.

Wendy Wilshire right? asked Jordan to that very girl the minute he caught up.Jordan Greene knows my name? gasped Wendy, straightening her posture

immediately with sparkles in her pale green eyes.Of course I know your name, said Jordan smoothly, combing his hair with his

fingers. You have been to all my basketball games and tennis matches for the past twoyears right? Speechless, Wendy nodded eagerly. I really appreciate it. Fans like youmotivate me to improve on the court.

You're very welcome, said Wendy, blushing and glancing away every few seconds.Well, if you need anything...

Actually, said Jordan, studying her face carefully. I do need something.I'll do it!I need someone to talk to, said Jordan sadly, frowning and dropping his eyes

toward the ground. Victoria and I broke up again-

I'll listen and comfort you!Throwing his arms around Wendy, Jordan said softly, Thank you. I need fans like you

to help me get passed this.Eunice watched as Wendy lost her voice and posture in Jordan's arms. Happily, Eunice

ran back to Tiffany and reported what she saw. At the news, Tiffany directed her eyes atthe two to find them walking off hand-in-hand. Amused, Tiffany uncapped her pen andwrote down the new relationship- Jordan Greene and Wendy Wilshire. Before, Tiffanyneglected to give Wendy a page but now, she added her section under the sophomore tab.

I love Jordan, said Tiffany under her breath, closing her binder after she was done.With a junior like him around, we always have something to look forward to.

Just wait until Victoria hears about this, said Jennifer with a wink and thumbs-up.Right on time, the bell rung to signal ten minutes before the start of first period.

Gasping, all three girls ran to the quad to check up on room numbers. After all, this was thefirst day of school and they had to find out which homeroom they would be stuck with forthe rest of the year.

For Wilson High School, their homeroom was their first period as well. Of course, theAsian Gossip Girls checked Jin's room number before theirs. The lucky one after comparingroom numbers was Jennifer. First period with Jin every day? It was a dream come true forthe emotional girl. Luckily for her, she skipped away before she noticed the deadly glaresher two friends gave her.

**********************************Jin-Kyong Song or Jin was a simple person. Even when the first bell rung, he did not

budge from his seat. He was sitting in the cafeteria with his eyes glued on the screen of hisDS lite. Eventually, Jin sighed and glanced at the usually broken clock on the wall of thecafeteria. The minute hand was already on the number eleven. Was the cafeteria clockfixed yet? Quickly, Jin checked the time on his DS light. Seven fifty.

Oh shit! Jin bolted up from his seat. Five minutes until first period starts!Running now, Jin checked for his name quickly on the list of homerooms. He found

his name and his homeroom number. Thankfully, it was in the closest building to him.Unfortunately, it was upstairs. Jin pocketed his DS lite before he ran in the direction of hishomeroom. In his head, however, he was upset that he did not finish the level before first


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period and that he must do it soon in order to not waste battery. Who knew redoing a wholestage to fight the final boss would take so much time? Jin overestimated his ability tocomplete a level in a short amount of time again.

Jin ran inside the classroom right when the bell rung. Wiping the sweat off his brow,Jin scanned the tables and gaped at an empty classroom. Did he enter the wrong classroom?Did he read the room number correctly? Before Jin could freak out, he felt a hand on hisshoulder and turned to his side to meet a short Japanese girl with round, brown eyes.

Rin-chan, said Jin gratefully, laughing weakly and pocketing his hands. I am in the

right classroom right?Pay more attention to your surroundings will you? asked Rin in an annoyed tone.Right then, Jin observed the classroom more closely. None of the students were

sitting at the various four-people tables, but instead, they were lining up against the wall.His classmates failed at this task miserably though. Most of them were in clusters. Jinrecognized most of his classmates in an instant. This calmed Jin down considerably as heleaned against the wall next to his childhood friend Rin Hamada. Today, Rin was dressed upin a dark green sweater and jeans. She had shoulder-length, back hair with bangs. However,most of the time, Rin pinned them back to keep them away from her eyes.

I miss you Rin-chan, said Jin casually, taking out his DS lite and finishing up thestage. Why did you stop talking to me on messenger over summer break?

I already told you why.Really? asked Jin without a hint of surprise in his voice. He did not remove his eyes

off the screen either. I don't remember you telling me anything.You never listen to anything I say anyway, said Rin sourly, adjusting the watch

around her left hand. She always wore a watch no matter what. Why bother repeating?You know me too well, said Jin with a playful smile on his lips. How's vacation?Don't give me that, said Rin with narrowed eyes. I work my butt off all summer

while you stay at home and play video games.Rin-chan... works? asked Jin in disbelief. This forced him to elevate his eyes up at

her for the first time. Where? Are you a waitress or something?No, said Rin, exasperated. I didn't actually get a job or anything.Laughing now, Jin returned to his game with an amused expression on. He knew that

his friend Rin would never actually march out and find a job. It was so unlike her. The ideaof it would butcher up her character completely. Satisfied with her answer, Jin went onwith his stage. Because he snuck a peek at Rin, he had already wasted precious game time.

Aren't you curious at all why we're not starting class? asked Rin in disbelief.Not at all, said Jin quickly. More time for me to finish up the final boss.That's all you care about, said Rin with a deep sigh.Wait a second, said Jin at last. When you say work, what did you mean by that?Someone is a little on the slow side today.Never mind, Rin-chan. Tell me about it later. Last boss.With that sudden cut off, Rin wrapped her arms in front of her chest and glared at

Jin, who was oblivious to everything around him except his game. She turned away fromhim and stared at the table in the center of the room instead. Before the teacher askedthem to all stand up by the walls of the classroom, Rin was sitting there and waiting for Jin.Rin had known Jin since second grade. Despite her being Japanese and him being Korean,they got along well. Their parents of course hated each other but that was a different storyentirely. Anyways, Jin always preferred to sit in the back of the classroom. Rin was thecomplete opposite. How could she see anything in the back due to her short height? In theend, they compromised. They would always sit in the middle.

Yes! cried Jin excitedly. A couple of his classmates glanced over in his direction. A


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couple of more hits and-At the most crucial moment, the teacher infiltrated the classroom and snatched Jin's

DS lite out of his hands. The teacher was a Hispanic man with an untamed beard and greasybrown hair underneath a brown panama hat. Also, he had dark, beady eyes and deepwinkles on his forehead. One thing was certain- he was not a teacher to be taken lightly.

Let me get to the point, said the teacher, trudging to his podium and standingthere with a deep frown on his face. Jin's DS lite was still in his right hand. I am not yourfriend. You are not my friend either. I am in charge and what I say is law.

We live in America! Go back to Mexico!At that remark, the girls started giggling, including Jennifer who found a spot to Jin's

other side without his notice. Rin did not however. As for Jin, he was glaring at the teacherfor stealing his DS lite from him. He was a few seconds away from defeating the final boss!Did that man not know how hard it was to accomplish this in under fifteen minutes?

First of all, I am from Puerto Rico, said the teacher calmly, picking up the rosters.Second, I can see quite a number of Hispanics in this room, which should come as nosurprise since this is a Spanish 3 class. Are you trying to insult them young man?

The young man who the teacher was speaking to was none other than KristianShiratori from the back. He was surrounded by his usual group of friends- Cory and Gary. Atthe sight of the Japanese male with broad shoulders, Rin grabbed onto Jin's arm and told

him quickly how unfortunate she was to be in the same class as Kristian. However, Jin wastoo upset at the lost of his precious hand held system to care.

Not at the very least, said Kristian with a smug look on his face. He shrugged andfanned himself in a carefree manner. Everyone tells me to go back to communist China allthe time. Who the fuck cares?

Apparently, said the teacher, scanning through the lists of names. Mister KristianShiratori doesn't care about his grades either.

I am protected by the First Amendment, said Kristian fearlessly, not at all shockedthat his Spanish teacher figured out his name so fast. I can say whatever I want and youcan't do anything about it.

Is that so Kristian? asked the Spanish teacher incredulously. He went over to hisdesk and wrote a note down quickly. After he was done, he held it up high in the air. Awelcome-back-to-school gift from me to you.

Without a care in the world, Kristian went up to the teacher and accepted the note.He took one glimpse at it before he smirked back at the teacher. Next, he returned to thecorner and picked up his backpack before he returned to the teacher's side.

Are you telling me this is the best you can do? asked Kristian with wide eyes in amocking manner. A talk with the principal? Surely, you can at least give me detention.

I'll see you tomorrow then Kristian.Since we're friends now, said Kristian quickly. What's your name?Mister Sanchez and you will address me as such for the rest of the year.Nice to make your acquaintance, Mr. S, said Kristian with a friendly pat on the

shoulder for his Spanish teacher. He waved back at the class. See you later guys!On his way out, Kristian stopped in his tracks right in front of the door and turned to

Rin, who was glaring at him. Amused, he dangled the piece of paper Mr. Sanchez gave himin front of Rin's face. This of course forced Rin to bark back at him.

You think you're so funny huh Kristian? asked Rin, annoyed. If Jin did not hold herback, she would have attacked him in one way or another. What kind of example are yousetting for us Japanese-Americans?

I wonder too Rin-chan, said Kristian, copying Jin's form of address for her. Now, Jinhad to use all his strength to hold her in place. I mean what can I do when the only other


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Japanese-American in our grade is such a teacher's pet?You're classic, Kristian, said Jennifer, giggling and clasping her hands in front of her

face in admiration.At least someone has a sense of humor, said Kristian to Jennifer, making fun of Rin.Right when Rin broke away from Jin's hold on her, Kristian had already left the room

with one last wave at the class. Rin would have went after Kristian but she thought betterof it and stayed in place. She was not going to get in trouble for something like this.

Since Kristian left the room, the room died down. Mr. Sanchez announced that he

was placing the students in tables of four in alphabetical order because he did not like theidea of friends sitting next to each other. Everyone started moaning and complaining aboutthis. Even though most of them knew each other, it was normal to not be happy to sit withsomeone other than their usual group of friends. Mr. Sanchez began calling attendance.

Jin, said Rin helplessly, tugging onto his arm. Jin inspected her questioningly. Ihate the people at this school. I don't want to sit with any of them.

It's okay, Rin-chan, said Jin with a forced smile. It can't be that bad right?Oh, yes it can, said Rin in retort. Her eyes were fierce. You have no idea how

much I hate the rest of our grade. Most of the boys are either retarded buffoons or hornybeasts or both. Most of the girls are either gaudy sluts or attention whores or both.

That's kind of harsh, don't you think?

There are exceptions of course but they're so rare anyway. Why bother?Rin-chan is so cynical, said Jin, rubbing her on the head like a child thanks to their

six inches of height in difference.I know it's only the first period of the first day of school but I hate it already, said

Rin, removing Jin's hand on top of her head. She did not like being treated like a childbecause she was shorter than most of her grade. It's people like Kristian that makes mewant to transfer out of this school.

I'll be sad, said Jin quickly. Rin was serious ninety percent of the time after all.I won't, said Rin, holding onto Jin's arm and nodding firmly. I want us to graduate

from the same high school after all.Yeah, and besides, Kristian is not that bad.Not that bad? repeated Rin in disbelief. Are you out of your mind?He's actually pretty cool, said Jin, staring intently at the DS lite in the possession

of Mr. Sanchez. He's a hard opponent to beat in this new fighting game. He defeated metwenty times over summer break I swear!

As long as someone speaks your language, you don't care do you?Jin thought about it. Yeah. That's it.I'm not like you Jin, said Rin harshly, shrugging innocently. I see people as they

are and say it as it is. I have no need to hide what I think of these idiots.Rin-chan, you need to be more flexible with people.I tried, Jin. Believe me when I tell you I have tried so many times.You are the same as always though.Because, said Rin exasperated. Mr. Sanchez had already arrived at the G last

names. After everything I've been through and every chance I have given people, I have nohope to believe people will change for the better. I know it's cynical but it's true. I can'tstand people like- Mr. Sanchez called for Jordan Greene's name as he sat down in a tablewith two people already. Jordan! Oh wait! It's alphabetical order which means-

Rin Hamada, said Mr. Sanchez, surveying the room.Present, said Rin sadly as she tossed Jin one last look. I'm sitting next to the most

egotistical pretty boy in school. Please God, save my pure soul.Bye Rin-chan, said Jin after her defeated form as she dragged her feet over to the


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seat next to Jordan Greene. I am sitting in the back like always.It's okay Jin! cried Jennifer, shaping a heart with her hands to Jin. This was the

first time he noticed she was next to him. I'll be sitting in the back with you!Oh yeah, said Jin slowly. I'm Song and you're Yang.Most likely, I'll be one table behind you!That makes me feel a lot better I guess, said Jin with a shaky smile. Jennifer held

her hands against her cheek at the thought of sitting behind Jin in Spanish class. Already, itappeared to be one long first day of school for him, more so because his DS lite was in Mr.

Sanchez's custody until after school.After Jin and Rin received their schedule for the rest of their classes, they began to

compare it after first period. They were huddled together in front of the door so peoplepushed them away to get through. Annoyed, Rin shouted after those people for being rudebut Jin simply shrugged it off and sighed after he was done with her schedule.

You are such a workaholic, Rin-chan, said Jin, shaking his head and returning herschedule. Why are you taking so many AP's?

Because I'm Asian, said Rin in response. Immediately, Jin had an insulted mien onhis face. I know you're only taking one but you don't really count Jin. No offense. Yourparents are easy on you. It's not the case with mine.

I know that, said Jin grudgingly. He had a lot of Asian pride so he did not take her

words too well for a second there. But you're already in Jazz band and Marching band.Now, you're going as far as taking four AP's?

Five, said Rin in correction. AP Physics C has two tests.You're insane.Why don't you take AP Language with me?Because I'm not crazy okay?We won't be in any class together except for this one then, said Rin in a

disappointed voice. She stared at the ground with sad eyes.Fine then, said Jin after he heard a couple of sobbing noises from Rin's end. She

was probably faking it too. I'll drop my current English period and take AP Language withyou instead. Happy?

AP US History too?You should hurry up to your AP US History class already, said Jin wearily, pushing

Rin away from him. I am not taking an AP in history even if my life depended on it. Youunderstand me well enough, right Rin-chan?

You're just lazy.Hey! Jin cried after her as Rin trudged away with her chin up in the air. You come

back here and say that to my face! Shaking his head, Jin smiled and wandered theopposite direction. Even it's true, you didn't have to say it so bluntly Rin-chan.

You get along well with that Japanese girl don't you?At the sudden question, Jin directed his attention toward the infamous Caucasian

male that shared a table with Rin. Unlike Rin, Jin did not dislike Jordan. They had been onthe same tennis team for the past two years. Actually, they sort of bonded for being thelaziest members on the team. Whereas Jin would sit and play his DS lite or PSP duringtennis period, Jordan would roam and socialize with the girls on the tennis team. Both ofthem would rather do anything but practice tennis every day under this heat.

Hey Jordan, said Jin, accompanying the pretty boy. I do get along well with her.We have known each other since forever.

She hates me as usual, said Jordan, checking his face in a compact mirror. Jinbelieved Jordan was the only male in school who carried around such an item. Do youknow why my buddy Jin?


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You gave her the Miss Nerd nickname freshman year, said Jin casually, making aquick cut around the corner. Of course Rin-chan hates you.

You would think girls get over such trivial matters.Apparently not, said Jin when he came to an abrupt stop. Jin only noticed this

now. This isn't sixth period. Why are you talking to me again Jordan? To learn more aboutRin-chan? That's not like you.

Caught me already? That's no fun.So... what's up?

At Wilson High School, like every other high school, there were different socialgroups. Jin had not learned much from classes but he learned a lot from his peers. Therewere unwritten rules among the people of his grade and other grades. Right now, whileJordan and him were talking and traveling to the next class together, they were breakingone of these rules. Jordan was part of the popular division. Jin was not. Wherever Jordanwent, he was accompanied by a female friend, most likely a senior, or his newest girlfriend.His own group was consisted of him, a male junior, and three female seniors. And Jin? Hewas part of his small circle of friends that refused to socialize with any other group unlessabsolutely necessary for class.

Actually, if it weren't for the fact that Jordan and Jin were on the same tennis team,they probably would have never talked. Jordan and his group hung out by the largest,

shadiest tree in the whole school during nutrient and lunch. Jin and his two friends hungout in his history teacher's classroom during nutrient and lunch. They were all in differentclubs and activities. Even if Jin were in all of Jordan's classes, they would sit at differentends of the classroom and rarely talk. But here he was... with Jordan of all people.

With you, Jin, I guess I can be blunt about this, said Jordan, putting his mirroraway and urging Jin to continue walking. Since there was no reason to disobey, Jincontinued his journey to second period. Join my group.

Your group? asked Jin suspiciously. He was getting an invitation from Jordan to jointhe popular group that used the word 'marvelous' as their motto. Why me?

Maybe I don't enjoy being the lone male in the group?Yeah, it must be hell to have three senior girls fawn on you every second of the

school day.My bud Jin, said Jordan with a glint of amusement on his face. Will you join or

not? I am not offering this membership to anyone you know.By the tone of Jordan's voice, it was obvious that this was a one-in-a-lifetime

opportunity for Jin to rise to the top and be with the populars. There were a couple oftimes in the past two years that Jordan joked to Jin about asking him to join his group butit never occurred. Today, something must have happened and that was why Jordan wasasking Jin to join. Even if Jin got along fine with Jordan, he did not buy this one bit.

I'll think about it, said Jin at last. He had to buy some time after all.Marvelous!For second period, Jin had a normal Physics class. In other words, the class watched

a video on gravity. Unlike Rin who was a perfectionist and overachiever, he chose easyclasses for himself. If she wanted to fill her class schedules with AP's, who was he to stopher? She was studious enough to get A's in all of them last year. As for him, he liked takingthe easy road. Every day, he went to class for the sake of attending school. True, he did notwant to drop out of high school but he was not aiming for a prestigious university after highschool either. With easy classes, he could easily pass them with A's and B's effortlessly.

The only class that he was interested in was sixth period or his mandatory tennisperiod for all team members. The only reason why he liked this class was because most ofthe time, he could sit near the courts and played video games or read mangas without a


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care in the world. Sometimes, Jin wondered how he survived high school without this freshbreath of air before the end of the school day. Surprised at the sight of Rin outside hisclassroom three minutes after the bell, Jin suppressed the shock quickly and tried to actcool by asking her how she located his classroom so quickly. Rin checked her watch oncebefore she peered at him suspiciously.

I memorized your schedule, said Rin, scowling for some reason.I don't even know my schedule yet, said Jin along with a short chuckle.You sure take your time leaving.

Eunice was asking me questions.Those girls, said Rin, rolling her eyes and strolling down the hallway with Jin. I

know everyone calls them the Gossip Asian Girls but I have a better name for those three.Which is?The Jin fan club.You have been reading too many high school mangas over summer break, Rin-chan,

said Jin with a carefree laugh. He enjoyed nutrient very much. Those types of fan clubsdon't exist in real life.

Officially? Heavens no. But unofficially?I must be a very ignorant fool then, said Jin, poking fun at himself.That's a pretty accurate statement.

You're not supposed to back me up on it.You're welcome.At the end of the hallway, Jin and Rin stopped when they caught sight of Jordan

sitting by the window with a blonde girl on his lap. Jin recognized her as Wendy Wilshire, agirl who often watched the Varsity Tennis Boy's matches. As far as he could tell, Wendy wasone of Jordan's strongest supporters. She was also a fan of Boris Bekrov, the best tennisplayer on the team. The two Caucasians were making out right now. The polite thing to doin this case was to sneak by and ignore them.

Right when Jin and Rin passed, Jordan said, Hey Jin. Think about it okay?Sure, said Jin quickly, a bit uneasy at Jordan stopping him.Hey Nerd, said Jordan, smirking at the sight of Rin who was holding onto her heavy

US History book. Did you get a life yet?This comment evoked hysterical laughter from Wendy, who was still sitting on top of

Jordan's lap. Chances were Rin had already judged her a lost cause to woman-kind andignored her deliberately for it, Jin thought.

Did you grow a brain yet? asked Rin daringly in retort with lifted brows.Now, Rin-chan, said Jin, gripping onto her shoulders. We should hurry and-Grow a brain and be more like you? A loser? asked Jordan incredulously in

challenge to Rin's comment. This was not going to end well.If I'm a loser, then you're a-However, at this rate, Jin had already dragged Rin away from Jordan silently. He

forced her out of the hallway in a hurry, much to her dismay. If he allowed her to arguewith Jordan, it would last for hours. Rin and Jordan had fired insults at each other for twoyears already and it never ended well for either of them. Jin did not want to endure thatduring nutrient when he was supposed to relax and enjoy life.

In a matter of minutes, Jin and Rin were inside the main office. While Jin asked for aform to change his class schedule, Rin scowled in the corner and kept her eyes on herwatch. Jin sighed at the sight of her. For as long as he had known Rin, she had been time-orientated. Out of everybody he knew, she had the best time management skills. In oneday, she could stay after school for band practice, finish all her homework, translate tenpages of manga, read over a hundred pages of manga and literary fiction, watch the


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evening news, help her siblings with their vocabulary, visit him and force him to finish hiswork, and sleep by eleven.

Did I mention how much I hate this school and its student population?Multiple times, said Jin, returning to her side with the sheet in his hands.I know I'm being sadistic but I wish cockroaches like Kristian Shiratori, Jordan

Greene, and most of all, Alejandro Medina scatter away or die already.That's not possible, said a familiar voice behind them. Kristian was in the office as

well with another note. How convenient that he came in just now and right behind Rin too.

Even atomic bombs can't kill cockroaches, so I find it your comparison between me andthat noble creature complimentary.

Do you want me to stomp you out of your existence Kristian? asked Rin in adelighted voice, picking a fight with Kristian already.

Not even the pest control can get rid of me, said Kristian thoughtfully, dawdling tothe desk to announce that he had another appointment with the principal. The ladies thereknew Kristian too well so they merely shook their heads. But you know what's amusing Rin-chan? The effect was immediate. Rin started fuming but thankfully Jin was there to calmher down. No one but Jin was allowed to call her that. Even idiots know better than toleave their backs open when talking about someone behind their backs.

Am I supposed to be afraid of you or something? asked Rin in disbelief. She allowed

a short chortle to leave her throat. You must be kidding me!Shouldn't you be afraid of your superiors? Shouldn't you be calling me Kristian-sama

instead?You are not older than me for Christ's sake!That doesn't matter, said Kristian quickly. The principal Mr. Chavez came out and

shook his head at the sight of Kristian again for a second time today. I call myself Kristian-sama all the time.

That's highly egotistical but then again, that's so like you.You're very rude Rin-chan, said Kristian with one last toss at her before he

accompanied Mr. Chavez. I should spank you for that but, a trace of a smirk curved hislips, you'll probably like that so yeah.

Kristian, you come back here and take that back!Hey Mr. Chavez, greeted Kristian with his hand on Mr. Chavez's shoulder like close

friends. Rin glared after Kristian, who ignored her on purpose. How's your day so far? I loveto continue our chat about the amount of rude people at this school. It's a shame really...

The minute Kristian disappeared into Mr. Chavez's office Rin growled and asked Jin tohurry up with his form already. Smiling in amusement at her usual attitude, Jin signed hispaper and handed it back to the old ladies working in the back. Relieved, both of thembolted out the office in a hurry and went to Mrs. Kate's room before the last member oftheir trio got there. However, even though it was only across the hall from the main office,Jin and Rin knew that Bo Sungwoo would get there before them. And like they predicted,Bo was already waiting for them.

Congratulations Bo! Rin greeted, running over and hugging him from the back.You're a senior! Lucky you!

Yeah, said Jin with a smile. He went over and sat on top of a desk next to Bo.You're graduating this year.

Yo, said Bo brightly, grinning. Thanks.The last member of their trio was Bo Sungwoo, a Korean senior who was well known

for gorgeous grin and enormous form. Standing at six feet two inches, Bo had scared a lotof freshmen in the previous of three years of his high school life by peering down on themfrom that height. It did not help much that Bo was well-built too with broad shoulders, long


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legs, and muscled arms. This was to be expected though. Bo was part of the Wilson High'sfootball team as their running back.

That's all? asked Rin, frowning and poking Bo's shoulder playfully. After threeyears of suffering at this rotten school, you should sound more enthusiastic about leaving it.You should be like 'I want to graduate now' in a loud, booming voice.

I want to graduate now, said Bo, repeating after Rin in a confused tone.You can't say it now Bo.Why not?

Because it's a little too late, said Rin, exasperated. Besides, you're not saying it inthe right tone. You're doing it all wrong. Everyone's so stupid today.

What happened to her? asked Bo to Jin instead for an accurate answer. Did shefight with someone again?

Jordan Greene and Kristian Shiratori within ten minutes of each other, answeredJin, taking out his PSP and turning it on.

Hamada-sama is so brave, said Bo in awe with an approving laugh.Stop calling me Hamada-sama! shouted Rin, a bit red in the face.I respect Hamada-sama from the depths of my heart, said Bo in an understanding

tone. Hamada-sama is one of the few girls I know who have a lot of self-respect forwomen. She also spent most of her summer vacation with me.

Rin-chan did? asked Jin, picking up his eyes and gazing at the two of them intently.Rin still had her hands on Bo's shoulders. Is there something going on between you two?

Rin reacted first. No!Are you so surprised at such news? asked Bo calmly, placing a hand on his chin and

facing heavenward.Yes, terribly, said Jin, paling considerably. Because Rin-chan's a not a girl.What do you mean by that? asked Rin fiercely. She went over and hit Jin across the

head. The watch had a hard surface and hurt Jin's head. Are you blind or something Jin? Iam a girl!

You're not a girl, said Jin in a determined voice. He pressed a button to pause hisgame. You're... Rin-chan.

Bo, said Rin to Bo immediately, ignoring Jin's remark. Am I a girl?She's not a girl, Bo, and you know it, said Jin quickly.To be perfectly honest, said Bo slowly, afraid of both of them. You're both right.What?Let me explain, said Bo with his usual grin plastered over his face. Hamada-sama

is right. She is biologically a girl because she lacks- Bo stopped when Rin raised her handup threateningly. Bo grinned, unaffected. But Jin is also right. Because I am not sexuallyattracted to Hamada-sama and respect her, she is not a girl.

What does that make me then? demanded Rin with her hands on her hips.A friend, said Jin and Bo in unison.I can't see why I can't be both.Impossible, said Jin without a single doubt in his voice.I am sorry Hamada-sama, said Bo apologetically, angling his head with a broad

grin. But we both see you as such a close friend that we cease to see you as a pretty girl,which is a shame because you are one.

I hate you Bo, said Rin through gritted teeth. Most of the time, I can't decide if Ishould slap you or hug you.

I prefer the latter, said Bo with the usual grin.Are you sure about that? asked Jin with a quick chuckle.You're horrible Jin, said Rin. Shut up already.


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I don't feel like it, said Jin playfully, placing the PSP on his lap. Anyways, Rin, areyou in a relationship with Bo or not?

I already said no! said Rin, clearly upset.She doesn't like to play along with my joke, said Bo with a shrug and a grin.Then, why did you two meet over summer vacation without me? asked Jin with a

frown on his face. I feel left out. Totally left out.You see, said Rin slowly, glancing away with flushed cheeks.Hamada-sama came over to educate me, said Bo with a wider grin. Then, he took

out five containers filled with Korean food and rice. About curves.Sounds... fun? asked Jin, uncertain.I swear, Bo, said Rin, smacking Bo on the head now. The grin did not falter from his

lips though. You are such a closet pervert.If Hamada-sama says so, it must be so because Hamada-sama is always right, said

Bo, picking up his chopsticks.I love how you never deny anything, said Jin, hopping over to Bo in order to take

the other pair of chopsticks and freeload Bo's food. Jin always took most of Bo's food.Why deny? asked Bo with a lift of his brow. He watched as Jin finished off one of

his containers already. People who are defensive make themselves appear guilty after all.True that, agreed Jin, who moved on to the second container.

Anyways, what Bo really mean by his curve comment is that, said Rin, glancing atBo as if daring him to interrupt her. I am his calculus tutor.

Oh yeah, said Jin, stopping in the middle of his feast. Bo is in calculus now.Aren't you Jin? asked Bo with an tilt of his head.I'm actually taking AP Calculus AB, said Jin. I wish I can drop out of that too.Which period and which teacher?Third period and Mrs. Wang, answered Jin, checking his schedule first.Cool, said Bo, eating his first bite. We're in the same class.I guess I won't drop out anymore, said Jin with a smile. Returning to his spot after

a satisfied meal, Jin picked up his PSP once more. Still, why didn't you two invite me overtoo? I want to learn calculus too.

No, saids Rin coldly at once. You'll get us distracted in no time.How? That's not me is it?Jin, said Bo with a shake of his head. I can't learn calculus with you playing your

PSP in front of me. I'll get distracted too easily. No offense though. I love my PSP.Speaking of PSP, said Jin, running over and showing Bo the screen. Did you get

this game yet? It came out a week ago.I love how Jin's attention span is so short, said Rin with a roll of her eyes.No, I haven't, said Bo sadly. I tried though. I checked five different game stores.That's no good. You can't find it anywhere.How did you find it?For popular games, you have to reserve it ahead of time of time. It's only five

dollars extra! Then, all you need to do is pick the game up.Sighing, Rin left the two males and sat in front of the computer. Since she knew

nothing of video games, she proceeded in reading manga on the computer. After all, shewas in the middle of a manga and wished to finish it by today or tomorrow. In order to notlisten to the video game language exchanged between the other two, she turned on herMP3 player and listened to her favorite Japanese boy bands.

Suddenly, the door opened. It could not possibly be Mrs. Kate since she always madesure to take her daily jog around the tracks every nutrient to stay in shape. That historyteacher was pretty obsessed with her weight but Jin, Rin, and Bo loved her anyway. Mrs.


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Kate was the reason why freshman year was so fun. At least, she was nice and reasonableunlike the rest of the teachers at this school. Though, she was too nice sometimes, and alot of the students took advantage of that, especially Kristian. After all, Mrs. Kate who hadnever given anyone detention before, was forced to give him one.

Anyways, Jin and Bo stared at a boy with straight, neck-length brown hair wanderedin without a real purpose on his face. He wore a black shirt, a dark sweater, and a pair ofblack pants. Eerily, he had extremely pale skin. Surprisingly, neither of them could identifyhim. This was strange since Jin thought he recognized everybody in the junior and senior

class. This male was obviously an upperclassman. He could not possibly be a freshman.Hey, said Jin with a soft smile.Yo, said Bo with a wide grin.Hello Vance, said Rin from her computer, waving in his direction.You know him? asked Jin, surprised.See Vance? asked Rin, ignoring Jin completely. Vance made his way over to Rin.He

doesn't listen or observe anything around him when he holds a game console in his hands.How insulting, said Jin, frowning.How insultingly true, said Bo in response. Jin tossed Bo a look in which his friend

returned it with a wide grin. But please, Hamada-sama, introduce us to your friend.Oh right, said Rin, standing up and placing a hand in front of Vance. If Jin paid

more attention, he would notice that Vance was sitting across from me in Spanish 3.Anyways, thanks to Vance, I was able to live through first period with Jordan by my side.

You've done well Vance, said Bo in a praising manner. As always, he grinned with abright glint in his dark eyes. You have saved our cute dictator Hamada-sama from JordanGreene. And for that, I thank you.

Vance glanced away. Yeah. Okay.Introduce yourself, Vance, said Rin, urging him on.I'm Vance Miles Gray, said Vance in a bored voice. Rin told me that she was part

of this group so I thought I checked on her friends.How thoughtful of you, Vance, said Bo in a friendly manner. Jin thought Vance was

quite rude actually but he kept his thoughts to himself. My name is Bo Sungwoo but mostof my American friends call me Bobby.

Er, I'm Jin-Kyong Song, said Jin awkwardly. Everyone calls me Jin though. I waswondering... are you-

No, said Vance in respond instantly.I didn't even ask my question.I'm not emo, said Vance, sitting down on top of the table. Thirty-eight people

have already asked me the same question.Then why are you-I have naturally pale skin, said Vance, glancing at the turned-off monitor screen at

his reflection. I don't do make-up either. I have natural mascara around my eyes.Is that possible? asked Jin at everybody in general.Some Asians do, answered Rin with a thoughtful look on her face. Like Yvette.It's rare for Whites though, said Bo, staring straight at Vance. Are you a WASP?Yes, said Vance, folding his hands in front of him as he stared at Bo and Jin without

blinking. Though, I rather not be called that.What's a WASP? asked Jin, dumbfounded at a word he was not familiar with.It's an acronym for White Anglo-Saxon Protestant, answered Rin instead of Bo.In other words, rich, religious Whites?That's one way to say it, said Bo with a dashing grin.Are you a transfer student? asked Jin curiously, trying hard to smile at Vance.


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Yes, said Vance, keeping his dark eyes on Jin now. I moved from Georgia.That's difficult then, said Bo, rubbing his chin again with his hand. It's hard to fit

in a group by junior year. Everyone has their own social groups already.Frowning, Rin went over to Vance and placed her hands on Vance's shoulder. There

was a fierce determination on her face. Oh no. Jin knew what was coming already.Vance is one of the few sane ones left in this school, said Rin in a desperate tone.

Don't you think it's best if he joins our group? He will only be corrupted by the others.No way, said Jin immediately.

Why not? asked Rin with a deep frown.It's weird to let a white boy into our Asian group, said Jin with his arms wrapped

firmly in front of his chest. Besides, it will ruin our group name.JinRinBo, said Bo in a sing-sang voice.Exactly, said Jin with a nod of approval. How can we allow our name to be

changed to JinRinBoVance? It doesn't sound cool at all!You are making lame excuses Jin, said Rin, frustrated. I don't see why we can't

change our name around to include Vance in it.You only met him, said Jin, raising his voice slightly. You don't even know him.

What if he's a druggie or a gangster?Vance did not appear to be insulted. It was as if he admitted to the accusations

already by not speaking up for himself. However, Rin was not the same. She seemed furiousthat Jin would even suggest such outrageous ideas.

Bo, you are the only one with reason around here, said Rin, begging and pullingBo's arm. Say something.

It's no use Hamada-sama, said Bo with a reassuring grin. He winked at Jin. We'reno longer JinRinBo. We're simply BoRinJin.

I know! Boring Jin indeed!Hey, said Jin, who felt insulted by that joke. I am only trying to keep our group

together here. I don't want some fourth person to join right off the bat. What if he breaksour friendship? What if he brings drama with him? Who knows?

Ignore Jin please, said Rin with a friendly smile toward Vance. He's kind ofprejudice against most Non-Asians.

It's okay, said Vance at last. He drew all eyes on him. I'll join eventually.Before Jin could say anything, he watched as the boy left without another word. Why

was that boy so confident in himself? Rin proceeded in smacking Jin the minute Vance wasout of sight. The two of them started arguing about how Jin treated Vance a few minutesago. In response to them, Bo sat down and ate the rest of his food with an easygoing grin onhis face the entire time before the bell rung.

It's not fair Bo! cried Rin, tugging onto Bo's arm despite their height difference.You have the next class with Jin. Please talk some sense into him.

Life's not fair Hamada-sama, said Bo, petting her on the head. Jin was so annoyedright now that he wouldn't even peer at Rin. You'll get used to it like Jin and I and go withthe flow. Bo pressed a finger against her head, in which she merely frowned and sighed.Put on a happy face or else you'll get wrinkles early Hamada-sama! You are too cute forthat at this age.

Again, I can't decide whether to slap or hug you.Compromise, said Bo in a suggestive voice. Hug me and then slap my ass.Closet pervert!By spreading his arms out at her, Bo had successfully chased Rin out of both his and

Jin's sight for the time being. Jin laughed at the sight of Rin so red and timid at Bo's attack.This was a side of Rin that only Bo had the honor of discovering. There was a reason why Bo


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and Jin were such close friends besides their similar interest in video games. It was becauseBo and Jin understood Rin well. Even if she made enemies out of everyone at Wilson High,Bo and Jin would stand by her or behind her in Bo's case. The reason? Rin was dear to them.Even though she did not seem like a nice person at first sight, she was a softie on the insideand an overall awesome person to be around. Though, sometimes, they wished she wasn'tso cynical and sadistic.

During calculus, Jin and Bo sat in the back of the room. Without Rin, they wereallowed to sit where they liked best. Jin and Bo were half-paying attention to the stern-

looking Mrs. Wang. The Chinese teacher was of average height and weight. She wore red-brimmed glasses and red heels. Although she was too old for a dress, she wore a long skirtfor kicks. For her hair, she had it up into a tight bun. From what Jin gathered, she had acertain expression on her face that read: I hate kids and I want to be out of here. Bo andJin decided that they would not get along with this teacher so they started playing theirPSP's, which were hidden on their laps. She was already done with attendance and now,proceeded on the rules of her classroom. Halfway through the class, Mrs. Wang stoppedthough and stared straight at the source of all the noise.

What is so funny, Mister Shiratori? asked Mrs. Wang directly at Kristian, who satright next to Bo. This entire time, he kept laughing and hugging his arms to his stomach.

Your last name is Wang, said Kristian, causing the whole class to laugh.

And why is that amusing? asked Mrs. Wang, elevating her thin eyebrow.What are you? A dinosaur? You don't even know what a 'wang' is?The class snickered at Kristian's words. The girl were sitting on the edges of their

seats, giggling and listening to his every word. Bo and Jin smiled in amusement. It wasgreat to have Kristian for any of their classes, especially without Rin around to complainabout how awful he was.

You are out of line, Mister Shiratori, said Mrs. Wang without a single emotion in hervoice. This is high school, not a comedian act show.

So, you really don't know what a 'wang' is? asked Kristian with a playful smirk onhis lips. He had his legs on top of his desk as well.

The Asian girls to the side of the class were giggling so hard that they had to holdonto each other for support. Jin noticed that Mrs. Wang's thin lips moved slightly, as ifdeciding to answer his question or not. This made Kristian very happy of course to silent ateacher in her tracks.

I feel sorry for you, said Kristian with a pitied countenance on his face. Eitheryour parents are paranoid and won't allow you to attend health class in seventh grade oryou're a chicken and won't take it yourself. Oh wait. You're married aren't you? Does thatmean you're a lesbian? Or a virgin at this age?

Here's your chance Shiratori, said a Hispanic senior in the back with a loud snicker.Go and do your virgin-killing.

We love you Kristian! shrieked the group of Asian girls to the side.Enough! Mrs. Wang barked loudly. Everyone quieted down. She had an extremely

red face when she began scribbling on yellow paper and holding it up high. MisterShiratori, I am sending you to Mr. Chavez.

Oh good, said Kristian, standing up with his backpack ready. I rather talk to mybud Mr. Chavez than the likes of you any day. Kristian accepted the slip of yellow paperand danced toward the door. Waving at the class one last time, he said, Support me bycoming to detention guys! We'll party there every day at three-fifteen sharp!

I envy him, said Bo in amusement. My parents will kill me if I get detention.Same, said Jin, amused as well. I guess his parents don't care.Guess not.


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You know the real reason why Hamada-sama hates him so much? asked Bosuddenly, gazing at Jin.

Isn't it because he's a class clown and brings shame to her Japanese heritage?That's only part of the reason, said Bo with a shake of his head. Again, he gave Jin

his special grin. It's because Kristian is a natural genius, unlike Rin-sama.A natural genius, said Jin, a bit puzzled. I've heard that title so many times but

what does it mean exactly?Hamada-sama works hard to get straight A's, said Bo, tapping his pen against the

table now. She is not born a prodigy or a genius like other people. Instead, she studiestwice as hard as anyone else to get where she is.

Then, what is a natural genius?I'm not sure exactly, said Bo admittedly. But I take it to mean that someone is

born a genius. A genius absorbs information and understands them faster than the averageperson. It doesn't take them as much time to learn stuff in other words.

I see what you're getting at, said Jin, returning his attention to his game instead.Kristian always wins Rin-chan whenever they argue. Sometimes, he leaves her speechless.It takes a genius to be able to silent Rin-chan in a heated argument.

It helps that Kristian is on the Speech and Debate team as well, added Bo quickly.I know, but yeah, I get it now, said Jin, thinking of Rin and how she named Kristian

as one of the three people she despised. Rin-chan is not a natural genius and works hardfor her grades. Kristian is but he chooses to mess around in class instead.

Doesn't that sound like someone I know? asked Bo with a playful glint in his eyes.Who? asked Jin, angling his head curiously.I think that person should figure this out for himself, said Bo slowly, lighting a

pleasant grin on his face. Jin did not see this though.I hope he or she does too, said Jin, shrugging. By the way, did you really spend all

summer with Rin-chan to work on calculus?No, Hamada-sama was busy with work.About that, said Jin, frowning at the mental image of Rin working as a waitress

again. What work is she doing anyway?Oh, you don't remember? asked Bo incredulously. Jin lifted a brow at this. She

told us on the phone during that three-way remember?I remember you asking me to borrow a video game, said Jin, thinking back.I can see where your priorities are.I don't always think of video games Bo. You know that.Bo glanced at the ticking clock on the wall. Are you sure Jin?Speaking of which, said Jin, gasping at Bo in complete surprise. That's one of my

favorites! Return it to me already! You'd already borrowed it for two months!Oh my poor and adorable Hamada-sama, said Bo, sighing and leaning back on his

chair. For whatever reason, Jin thought his friend gave the impression as being cheerful athis demand. You would have made better use of this fool's intelligence.

What is that supposed to mean?Jin, did I tell you that you have grown since last year? asked Bo suddenly, curving

his lips into a charming smile instead. Your fan girls must be happy to see that.Despite you being my game buddy, Bo, said Jin, removing his hands from the PSP's

buttons for the first time. You are the only person in this entire school I will beat up andthen buy you a drink later to apologize.

This makes me sad then, said Bo with a feigned sad expression on. You are toonice to beat me up and you are too cheap to buy me a drink, and yet, I forgive you becauseI know at the bottom of your heart, you really mean those words.


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Is there no way for you to be nice when you're supposed to be nice and mean whenyou're supposed to be mean? Do you always have to mix those two emotions up together?

I have not the slightest clue what you mean Jin.Right then, the bell rung for the end of third period. This seemed to brighten Bo's

mood even further. He patted Jin in a friendly manner on the shoulder and said quickly thatthey would meet up later during or after sixth period. Before Jin could ask him, Bo was outof sight. Jin had no clue why he could always forgive Bo for any remarks he made. Oh wait.Did Bo's happy-go-lucky face have something to do with it? That must be it. It was definitely

Bo's special grin, which could masterfully hide both his perverted and evil side. That devil.The rest of the day went by quickly for Jin because of his addicting PSP game. That,

and the fact that after his form go through, he would be in different classes anyway. Forlunch, he spent it at Anime club where they voted on what to do for the rest of the year.Rin was there but she spent most of the time complaining about Kristian, who turned out tobe in three out of four of her classes so far, and convincing Jin to allow Vance, who turnedout be in three out of four of her classes as well, to join their trio.

While Jin pretended to listen, he thought to himself that he only needed to survivethe first day with Rin. After today, she would loosen up and not complain as much. It waslike a ritual every semester. Every time she came back for the first day of school, she wouldnitpick and criticize everything about the school- the students, the books, the teachers, the

environment, and everything else. She would repeat how many times she wished summervacation didn't end so she wouldn't have to meet these idiots. However, after she got thatoff her chest, she would become nicer for the rest of the year until a week before AP tests.Then, she would be stressed and refused to see either Jin or Bo for the sake of last minutestudying. God, Jin thought, he knew Rin way too well.

Finally! shouted Jin out loud, marching toward the tennis courts with his head uphigh. He was one period away from the end of school. My favorite period of the day! Freeperiod to play my PSP! Then, after this, I can pick up my DS lite and go home!

Song!Oh shit, said Jin, recognizing that voice. There was no way he could forget his

tennis coach of two years so far- Coach Marshall. Hey Coach. What's up?Coach Marshall was a giant man with a smooth face and clean-cut brown hair.

Because he was younger than he appeared, he liked to ask new students to guess his age. Itamused him to no end. He always wore a white baseball cap backwards and sunglasses, nomatter how hot or cold. Even though he seemed nice, he was the exact opposite. Out of allthe coaches in this school, Coach Marshall was third toughest, right after Coach Mendozafor the football team and Coach Morrison for the basketball team. Together, those threecoaches were the fiercest men on campus with surnames starting with the letter M.

Where is your tennis racket? Why haven't you changed into your tennis shorts?About that, said Jin nervously scratching his head at the sight of his coach in front

of him. I kind of didn't bring my racket or my tennis shorts.And why not Song?I didn't think I need to, said Jin lamely. Isn't it the girl's season?Have you forgotten how we lost in the semi-finals last year to a team that didn't

even have a real school mascot?No Coach, said Jin, remembering how much the Varsity Tennis Team laughed and

joked about the other team, only to get their asses kicked. But I'm only a substituteplayer. I play mostly JV games that don't count for anything.

Listen to me Song, said Coach Marshall in a deep growl. You have to train as hardas the Varsity members. What if Shin or Fisher were to catch a fever on the day of animportant match? What then?


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You can always ask one of the other JV members...Bullshit, said Coach Marshall, spitting. Why must his coach spit while he talk?

Song, you have the most potential out of all of them. You know that. You're just lazy asfuck though. You and Greene are the laziest tennis players I have ever had on my team!

You must be exaggerating Coach, said Jin, taking a few steps backwards.Song, said Coach Marshall, grabbing a hold of Jin's collar to stop him from running.

Because you are not prepared for class, you are running twenty laps around the footballfield and fifteen minutes on the bleachers. It was no use struggling. Coach Marshall began

dragging Jin to the courts himself. You and Greene can have fun keeping each othercompany for the rest of the period!

Hey there Jin, said Jordan, smiling down at Jin who just landed on the ground nearhim after a rough release from Coach Marshall. Jin stood up quickly and checked on hisprecious PSP. Did you forget to bring your shorts and tennis racket as well?

I didn't forget, said Jin, cleaning his PSP with a cloth. I didn't think we have to.Oh, said Jordan, laughing. He was surrounded by the tennis girls and a couple of

senior girls that especially stayed in school for sixth period to watch Jordan play or talk tohim. Hey Coach, is it all right for me to- Jordan took off his shirt and beamed. -run withmy shirt off?

The response from the girls were a positive one. Many of them were blushing,

giggling, shrieking, or all of the above. Even the Varsity and JV tennis boys did not caremuch. Actually, some of them were cheering Jordan on to do such a daring act. Of course,Coach Marshall pulled Jordan hard by the ear.

Greene, you are the worst, said Coach Marshall in declaration. At least Song isn'ton the Varsity team officially. You, on the other hand, are part of the Varsity Tennis Team.But all you do is find excuses to leave practice early every spring season. Even during sixthperiod, you spend all your time flirting with your female friends or making stupid,perverted jokes with the guys instead of practicing. What the hell is wrong with you?

Coach, said Jordan, rubbing his ear after Coach Marshall released him. After aglare from Coach Marshall, Jordan wore his shirt back on. I can't help it if I have a date! Ican't stay for practice that long four days a week! I won't have a social life then!

Greene, you better start running before I pull that ear off!I'll discuss things later with you Coach!Jin watched as Jordan ran toward the nearby football field and started his lap. He

would have ran off as well if it weren't for a certain Russian male under the name of BorisBekrov coming up to Coach Marshall and asking to tag along with Jin and Jordan. This wasnot surprising for Boris, the number one tennis player on the team, who liked to exerciseand spend seven hours a day practicing tennis. This was exaggerating of course but Jinknew he would purposely forget his classwork for tennis. Now, that was determination.

Fine, Bekrov, run with them if you like, said Coach Marshall, shaking his head. Atthe very least, make sure they don't just sit there and pretend to run twenty laps.

Yes sir, said Boris in his heavy Russian accent.It did not take long for Boris and Jin to catch up to Jordan who was panting already

from running half of the football field. Even though Jordan was a singles player, he hadlittle endurance. He was at his worse right now because of summer vacation. Incomparison, Boris jogged around the laps like it was nothing to him. But that was notshocking either because most likely, Boris spent seven to ten hours a day playing tennisduring summer vacation. Jin was also like Jordan, but not because he had low endurancebut because he felt so lazy after vacation. He literally sat for ten hours a day playing videogames at times. Tomorrow, he was waking up with cramps for sure.

Coach wants me to train and become singles two, said Jordan, starting a


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conversation. Jordan would rather die than not talk. He was either kissing, talking, eating,or sleeping. But I don't want to. I am happy with being singles four.

If Coach wants you to move up to singles two, said Jin, thinking about his toughcoach. That must mean you have a lot of potential Jordan. Why don't you try at least?

That's the thing, said Jordan, sighing and smoothing his flowing hair. It's too muchwork with little to no rewards. I mean no one wants to be singles two or three if they canhelp it.

Why?

Everyone knows Boris will always be singles one, said Jordan, nodding in indicationat Boris. Boris nodded back but he kept his eyes on the track instead. That's why PatrickFisher and David Shin keeps challenging each other for that singles two spot. They bothwant to be recognized as the better player by the other and the rest of the team. I don'twant to join in that fray!

For someone who is called dumb by Rin-chan, said Jin slowly with a smile. You'reactually quite smart at times.

I'm no nerd, said Jordan quickly, fixing his hair again. It was no use however sincethe wind kept messing it up anyways. I'm just lazy and very content with my spot. I amhappy to be singles four where no one questions my position. I don't have to prepare myselffor challenges from either my teammates or my opponents.

The easy road eh?That's it. I don't like being competitive or working too hard.I'm the same, said Jin, staring contently at the bright sky above him. I like being

on the JV team because my matches don't count and I don't feel pressured. I don't know if Ican take it being on the Varsity team.

This is nothing compare to Varsity Basketball though, said Jordan, shaking hishead. Jin lifted a brow. I mean, it's rough being on a five-person team. We have to worktogether all the time and I am not so good with that. I am terrible at that actually. Besides,my endurance for basketball sucks ass.

Oh yeah, said Jin. You're on the Varsity Basketball team too.Yeah...Why though? That's more work for you.Because, said Jordan with a smooth smile as he glossed his eyes over at where the

cheerleaders were practicing at. Athletes get all the girls.So you play both basketball and tennis to get girls?Surfing too, said Jordan with a brief chuckle. It works doesn't it?You have fans at every game you play, said Jin, picking up the speed since Boris

was way ahead of them now. You can date any of them whenever you like.Yeah! It's marvelous.Lucky you I guess.Speaking of which, said Jordan, turning to gaze at Jin for the first time. Why

don't you have a girlfriend?I don't care?How strange, said Jordan, thinking for a few seconds. You'll get one eventually.That's what they all say.Right then, Jin and Jordan froze in their tracks. Much to their amazement, someone

passed them at lightning speed, leaving them to cough in the dust that runner left behind.When Jin recovered, his eyes widened in recognition of the male. That person who wasrunning in black pants was none other than Vance Miles Gray! The pale skin and straightbrown hair was a giveaway. Was that boy on the track team?

It's the emo, said Jordan, noting Vance's speed as well. Jin frowned. He's fast and


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he's not even in shorts.Some people are born with natural skills and intelligence I guess, said Jin.Natural beauty too, said Jordan with a wink. None of this is fake baby.You're talking to the wrong person, said Jin, sending Jordan a pleasant smile.Maybe I should talk to Nerd instead? asked Jordan, indicating at Rin, who was

sitting in the shade with her group with her baritone saxophone in hand.Rin-chan's in a bad mood.Because you told her that you're leaving her for my group? asked Jordan hopefully.

No, said Jin, amused at how happy Jordan seemed for a second there. She has todeal with you first period and Kristian Shiratori all day.

That virgin-killer, said Jordan, chuckling at the memory of Kristian first period. Iwant to be in more classes with that guy. Didn't he get send to the principal's office threetimes and receive two hours of detention already?

You're pretty on top of things. That's exactly it.At least Alejandro Medina isn't back yet, said Jordan, smacking his forehead out of

laughter. I heard that mother fucker got drunk the night before so he couldn't make it forthe first day of school!

Rin-chan was happy she wasn't in any classes with him, said Jin, remembering hertelling him this sometime during Anime club. "But I guess she was celebrating too soon.

I love our Junior class! It's been a marvelous day!Jin saw Bo running along with the other football members with a firm grin on his face

as usual. For the third time, Vance passed them on the tracks. Rin was closing her eyes andplaying the saxophone beautifully. The girls from around the area were busy watchingJordan to do much else. Indeed, despite all the ups and downs of today, it had been aworthy first day of school. Jin couldn't wait to come home and finish that final boss that hetried to kill since this morning.

Dead tired after the bleachers routine, Jordan and Jin collapsed on the ground, onlyto hear the ten-minute bell until the end of school. The tennis girls started heading for thelocker room while the tennis boys simply changed right on spot. After all, they only neededto wear their jeans back on. Some of them didn't even need to change. Jin found itsuspicious that many of the Varsity Tennis girls smiled in his direction. True, they weremostly Asian and they had an interest in him but he never gave them any signs of returningthem. All the time, he questioned how a girl's mind worked.

Song, said Coach Marshall, stopping in front of Jin and glaring down upon him.The tennis girls have voted for you.

For what? asked Jin, rubbing the sweat off his brow.Team manager.You got to be kidding me!I, myself, approve of their decision, said Coach Marshall, laughing hard now at the

miserable air around Jin. As team manager, you have no time to be lazy.Isn't it the team manager's job to carry water and food for the team? asked Jordan,

who took off his shirt and fanned himself with a binder.And a lot of other important manual labor as well, answered Coach Marshall with a

sinister grin on his face. Jin groaned loudly. You must be so proud of yourself, Song, to beadmired and loved by the girls.

I don't want to do it.You have to do it. The vote was unanimous.Dismissing all of Jin's complaints, Coach Marshall forced both Jin and Jordan to pick

up the balls on the courts and returned the baskets of them into the athlete's shred. Whilethe two of them proceeded with this task, Jordan kept glancing at Jin with a grin on his


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face. It seemed like everyone like this idea but Jin.You'll have no problem getting a girlfriend now, Jin, said Jordan, throwing a tennis

ball up and down playfully.I don't want one, said Jin with a heavy sigh. Hate threw the two tennis balls in his

hands into the nearest basket. I don't even know how to treat one.Yvette's pretty, said Jordan, staring at the tennis girls that did not leave for the

gym. Jin shook his head. Whenever he denied wanting a girlfriend, Jordan pushed it further.I mean she is the captain of the girls' team after all and she has an excellent tennis body.

Yvette Kwan? asked Jin in disbelief.She's Korean like you right? That's why I suggested her.The person Jordan was suggesting was Korean senior who had been on the tennis

team for the previous three years. Out of all the girls on the team, Yvette practiced theleast since she was busy figuring out other tennis business like uniforms, budget, and matchdates. She was always the one who came up and forced the rest of the team to go alongwith her funraising ideas.

On the surface, she looked like a sweet and sophisticated lady with her curly blackhair in pigtails. However, Jin knew her too well from the previous years of watching thegirls' practices and games. Because she was a formidable doubles player, she expectedeveryone else in the team to be at the same level. If Yvette rarely double faulted, she

wanted the rest of her team to accomplish the same task, as impossible as that may seem.In other words, Jin thought she pressured her teammates too much to be a perfectionistlike she. Her ideals were too high at times.

No, said Jin at last, removing his eyes off Yvette and her doubles' parter Venus. Idon't want to date and especially not Yvette.

I'll date her, said Jordan with enthusiasm.Go ahead.Not really, said Jordan, changing his mind and shooting a tennis ball right into the

basket like a basketball. I only said that to see your reaction. Most people would have said'I change my mind'.

I'm a geek, Jordan, said Jin in self-acceptance. I'm not interested.Your good looks are going to waste...You might need a social life but I cast away my social life.You think you're so big, my bud Jin, said Jordan, picking up the last tennis ball on

the courts. You'll see how great girls can be one day.We'll see about that, said Jin, stealing the ball out of Jordan hands and tossing it

toward the basket. However, it missed. Jordan had to clap his hand over his mouth to stophimself from laughing. I'm no good at being an athlete or a boyfriend. That's your life, notmine. That's why, Jin went over and placed the ball inside the basket, I have to deny yourinvitation from earlier.

Oh come on now Jin!I thought about it all day, said Jin, smiling at the shirtless Caucasian male. Sure, I

could stop playing video games, watching anime, and reading fantasy novels as well asabandon Rin-chan and Bo to join your group. I'll be at the very top with the populars. Noone will call me names anymore. Everyone will try to be my friend. I can attend parties andlearn of the latest gossips. However...

However? asked Jordan in disbelief.Then, I thought to myself, said Jin, lifting his backpack and heaving it upon his

back. If you took all that away from me, what will I talk to you people about? I don't livein the world of fashion and gossip. I mean, Jin laughed and scratched his head. Youbasically just took my life away from me. What is there left of Jin-Kyong Song?


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You're such a clown, my bud Jin, said Jordan in amusement. Surely, you'reexaggerating. If not, that'll be the lamest piece of shit I heard all day.

Jin grimaced. Better to be a lame Jin than no Jin at all. And that was the last Jinheard about the proposal from Jordan that day. It was better that way, as far as Jin wasconcerned.

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