Challenge 3: Old Hollywood Beauties. This challenge is all about the classical Hollywood era: from silent films to technicolor. Choose a movie starlet and recreate one of her looks.
 
Icon: Rita Hayworth
I've chosen to recreate one of her looks from Gilda because that is by far one of her most iconic roles. And you understand why when you watch it; the way she slowly removes her glove in the second rendition of "Put the Blame on Mame" or the single greatest character introduction in history when she flings her hair and raises her eyebrows and that coy "Me?" when Ballin Mudson asks "Gilda, are you decent?", she's just mesmerizing. Actually these moments are so great that I just have to post links;
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prfwOvj4cOQ
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CUQvITehr34
 
Ok, I'm gonna stop being a fangirl now and get on with writing the story.
 
Collab with @tania-l and @citylimitsxx
 

“Our team is getting ridiculously small,” I said as I looked at the now two vacant beds in our room.
 
“What’s more ridiculous is that they wouldn’t even bother showing up for the shoots,” Amelia said from her own bed, lazily flipping through a comic book.
 
“True, I don’t get why you’d go through the whole audition process if you’re not gonna be serious about it afterwards. And on national TV of all things,” I added, shuddering at the idea of being perceived as a quitter by all of America.
 
Having just been briefed for the next shoot, I briefly considered researching outfits and set ideas when Ketzia’s head popped around the corner of our door.
 
“Hye-Ri’s here for you,” she said with a grin, leaving Amelia and I to stare at each in confusion for a split second before rushing downstairs.
 
I couldn’t help but be a bit shellshocked at seeing her in the loft’s lobby, having been used to only the other model’s being around here for the past two weeks.
 
“Hello girls,” she said as soon as we had made it down, giving each of us a one-armed hug as she held onto several objects in her other hand. “I figured since we were in such small numbers now it was time for a girls’ night, boost the morale a bit,” she explained before holding up the two boxed DVDs she had in her hand, “while still preparing you two for your shoot of course.”
 
“That sounds perfect,” I said with a ridiculous smile on my face, as happy as kid on Christmas morning at the idea of spending the evening watching two classics of old Hollywood with one of the greatest supermodels of our time.
 
“I have a taxi waiting for us. We’re going to my hotel suite and have some mani-pedis as well.
Who said everything had to be hard work?” she asked, winking at us before leading the way to the taxi. Amelia and I shared a look before following her, both not quite believing what was happening.
 
It didn’t take long for us to reach her hotel and as we stepped out I couldn’t help but be surprised by the people that were gathered outside, snapping pictures as soon as we had stepped out of the taxi. I froze for a second, trying to take in the attention that was being paid to us when I felt Hye-Ri grabbing hold of my arm.
 
“Yes, you’re famous. Let’s get inside,” Hye-Ri said, seeming slightly amused by our reactions as we finally made it into the lobby and towards the elevators.
 
“Wow your room is breathtaking” Amelia said as Hye-Ri held the door open, letting us into a room that was roughly the size of my whole house.
 
“Pepa! Tell the massage people we’re here and please order some room service,” Hye-Ri said to what seemed to be her personal assistant as she removed her coat. “Girls, this is Pepa,” she added as the petite assistant greeted us with a hand shake.
 
A few minutes later we had installed ourselves in Hye-Ri’s makeshift living room, an array of food at our disposal as we waited for the massage people to come.
 
“So which film do you want to see first?” she asked, holding up DVDs of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof and Gilda in her hands.
 
“I don’t mind watching the Elizabeth Taylor one first, I haven’t seen it in a while,” I said as Amelia smiled in agreement. I knew that if we watched Gilda first I would simply get lost in the movie and wouldn’t be able to focus on Amelia’s choice so it was probably for the best that her’s went first.
 
"So..for this shoot, how should we try and act? Should we be more like the characters or embody the actress more?" Amelia asked softly halfway through the movie.
 
"Whatever you find more comfortable." Hye-Ri answered, "If you're confident, it'll come through in your performance and ultimately help you embody the Hollywood starlet."
 
"I think I got it,” she said with a weak smile as she slowly nodded her head.
 
"I think you'll do a good job embodying her, Amelia,” I told her with a smile. "Are you nervous?"
 
"Yeah, a little. I mean, I've been distracted this week... I'll bring my A game, though. Promise.”
 
"I know you will, Amelia." Hye-Ri said. "I know you both will. You've both done so well. I'm proud of both of you."
 
"Well, only because we have such a great coach." I say, smiling over at her.
 
"Yeah..you've really been a great coach." Kayla adds, smiling at Hye-Ri as well.
 
"Thanks again for everything, really." I say, looking back at the TV, and we watch the rest of the film intently.
 
"So who is ready for the next film?" Hye-Ri asked once the movie was done.
 
“I think I’m all set,” I said after having grabbed one of the bowls of popcorn room service had brought up, having devoured a first one during the previous movie.
 
“You still have room for that?” Amelia asked amusedly as she eyed my bowl.
 
“You can’t watch movies without popcorn,” I said sheepishly before passing the bowl to her. She laughed before taking a handful and settling in for the next movie.
 
My eyes were glued to the screen from the moment Rita appeared with that famous hair flip. I inadvertently started faintly mimicking certain poses and movements throughout, trying to assimilate as much of her persona and presence on screen as I could. I analysed every aspect of her demeanour, from the way she held her cigarette to her slow grin.
 
“You seem...enthralled to say the least,” Hye-Ri said amusedly.
 
“I just love Rita Hayworth,” I said with a grimace as Amelia laughed at my reaction.
 
“Clearly,” Hye-Ri said. “Just don’t let that take-over too much, make sure that there’s still a bit of you in your pictures. Being able to recreate the essence of Rita would make for a good picture but an amazing one would be a picture where your own personality still shines through.”
 
“I’ll keep that in mind, thanks,” I said as I mulled over what she had said.
 
Hye-Ri lets us take all this in a moment, before finally speaking.
 
"So who is ready for mani-pedis?" she asked, just as a team of professionals came in.
 
Amelia and I exchange excited looks as a manicurist placed herself in front of each of us.
 
"Now, feel free to choose whatever colours and anything else you want. Think of this as a chance to express yourself, give a bit of personality." Hye-Ri adds, smiling as she settled on a classic French manicure.
 
I smiled as I turn towards the choice in front of me, my eyes going straight to a rich Chanel red. Classic but striking. I wasn’t all too surprised when Amelia chose a deep black, matching perfectly the image I had made of her so far.
 
Hye-Ri looked over at us once our mani/pedis were done, giving us a kind of knowing look.
 
"What is it..?" I asked, unsure of what else she seemed to have planned.
 
"Are you guys tired, or are you both up for some more fun?" she asked, getting up.
 
"I'm down for anything.... what would we be doing?" Amelia asked with raised eyebrows but a smile plastered on her face nonetheless.
 
"Well, go and get ready, girls. We're going to go clubbing. Might as well let loose and have some fun after we've pampered ourselves," Hye-Ri said with a smile, motioning for us to go and get ready. "I have some outfits picked out for you both to choose from. Go and have fun," She added motioning towards her guest room. She smiled at us one more time before going to her room to get ready herself.
 
"Wow... this all just seems surreal,” Amelia said, smiling that same amazed same we’d had on our faces since Hye-Ri had first showed up at the loft a few hours ago.
 
"I know... It all feels like a dream," I said, smiling as I looks around Hye-Ri's apartment some more, still somewhat in awe, before turning back towards Amelia. "I keep having to pinch myself."
 
"Yeah, I do too..." she laughed. "But come on, let's go and get ready before we wake up from this dream, yeah?"
 
"But of course. Let's go and keep on living this dream,” I answered with a nod, turning towards the array of designer clothes Hye-Ri had put at out disposal for the night. Whatever else the competition had planned for us, tonight would without a doubt still be one that I wasn’t about to forget.
 
It was confident that I walked onto set a few days later, my head filled with Hye-Ri’s advice and the now indelible images of Rita in my head. I doubt there would ever be a challenge that I was more suited or prepared for.

Monday April 15th - Thursday April 18th: Exam week. Depending on your courses, you might either be in school all week or hardly at all.
 
Gonna try to write a story for the last day of exams, anyone want to be included?

Monday April 15th - Thursday April 18th: Exam week. Depending on your courses, you might either be in school all week or hardly at all.
 
Just a bit of a filler story
 
Included; @peaceloveglitter
 
Monday 15th
 
“Ugh, I hate Econ,” I exclaimed as I pushed my notes away and placed my head against the table, tired after having gone over the same chapter for the 3rd time.
 
“No you don’t,” Lani said simply, never taking her eyes off of her American Gov textbook as she munched on an apple.
 
“You’re right, its just those stupid current and capital accounts,” I muttered. “What are the odds of those even coming up in the exams anyway? I’ll just leave it,” I decided, sitting up once more to happily take a sip of my coffee.
 
“Pretty sure its gonna come up,” Lani said flatly, eyes still glued to her book.
 
I turned around, glaring at her for a few seconds before sighing, knowing she was right.
 
“I don’t like you,” I muttered as I begrudgingly pulled my laptop towards me to cover the one part of my notes that still eluded me. Lani’s only response was a light chuckle as she finally closed her book, seemingly satisfied with her revisions.
 
“Ok seriously, what is up with Coolidge? He keeps looking over here,” she suddenly said, putting all thoughts of those stupid accounts to the back of my mind as I looked up and saw him across the courtyard.
 
“I don’t know,” I said slowly, lowering my head as I felt Lani’s eyes on me.
 
“Riley why are you blushing?” she asked, clearly suspicious.
 
“I’m not,” I answered too quickly with an awkward shrug.
 
“You’re a horrible liar,” she said incredulously. “Now come, tell me what happened.”
 
“Well, we kind of kissed at Hunter’s party,” I finally admitted as her mouth seemed to drop to the floor.
 
“What?” she simply said, waiting for me to explain.
 
“And then things were kind of weird cause I ended up going home with Nathan but we talked it out on Saturday and its all good now,” I quickly said, trying to get the bulk of it out of the way before she had the chance to interject.
 
“You went home with Nathan?!” she said, almost spitting out his name. She hadn’t really been his biggest fan after everything that had happened last year.
 
“Not like that, he was just helping me out. He was kind of nice actually,” I added as Lani rolled her eyes.
 
“Whoop de do, he did one decent thing,” she said sarcastically before adding, “anyway, how did I miss all that?”
 
“Probably because you were off making out with Connor,” I said with a grin.
 
“Seriously, how many times do I have to tell you, we’re not together,” she said with yet another eye roll.
 
“Don’t have to be with someone to make-out with them,” I muttered, ever the smartass.
 
“Says the expert,” Lani said with a fake smile as I mock glared at her. “What are you gonna do about Allen anyway?”
 
“What do you mean?” I asked as I checked the clock on my laptop, realising I didn’t have very long till the Econ paper.
 
“He’s glancing furtively at you across the courtyard, it means something!” she said dramatically as I couldn’t help but laugh.
 
“Ok you’re clearly spending too much time in front of the TV,” I said as I started putting my notes away into my tote.
 
“You can’t just leave him hanging Riley,” she added.
 
“I’m not leaving him hanging, there’s nothing going on!” I exclaimed, slipping on my jacket as I stood up.
 
“Suure,” she said sarcastically as her eyes fell on something behind me. “And here’s exactly what this situation needs; Nathan Andrews.”
 
“Actually it is,” I said, ignoring her sarcasm as I turned towards him. “Nathan would you be an angel and accompany me to class,” I asked before he had the time to say anything.
 
“Sure thing,” he said, extending his arm towards me.
 
“You’re asking for trouble Jackson,” Lani called after me as I handed my laptop to Nathan before grabbing my bag and coffee.
 
“There’s no trouble to have,” I answered as I started walking away.
 
“You’re deluding yourself.”
 
“As are you with Connor,” I said over my shoulder to catch the last eye roll of the day.

Saturday April 13th: Bonfire on the beach tonight. Have a few drinks and amazing memories as we all stay up watching the stars in our bikinis and maybe catching that guy we’ve had our eyes on for a while...?
 
Another long one and the ending is shit, sorry I keep making you guys have to read all these long ass stories :/
 
Included; @rebelfratter @druesaysrelax @peaceloveglitter
 
I woke up with a throbbing headache and a ridiculously dry mouth, trying to muster the energy to get out of bed and into the bathroom where I could at least take care of one of these problems. Blindingly reaching for my phone, I groaned as I realised how late it already was, knowing that if I wasn’t down in the kitchen soon my parents would barge in at any moment.
 
Turning around as I stretched, I stifled a scream as I realised I wasn’t alone in bed. Jumping out as fast as I could, I had to pause as the sudden movement made me dizzy, causing me to bump into my bedside table. The level of noise I’d managed to make while trying to be discrete ended up waking the John Doe in my bed.
 
“Nathan,” I said with a sigh as I recognised his dishevelled mop of hair.
 
“Morning,” he said lazily as he stretched out on my bed, seeming all too at ease for my own comfort.
 
“What are you doing here Nathan?” I whispered through clenched teeth, not wanting my parents to hear me.
 
“I drove you back home after the party, don’t you remember?” he said as he sat up, distracting me slightly as I realised he was shirtless. Oh god what had I done.
 
“I do remember that, what I don’t remember is why you didn’t leave after,” I said, trying my best to keep my voice levelled.
 
“Well once we got here you weren’t really feeling great so I had to help you in and up the stairs. And then you start puking,” he explained with a grimace as I sat back on the bed, hiding my face in a pillow as I listened to him. “So I stayed with you and got you back to bed after. I was gonna leave once you’d fallen asleep but the I kind of got lazy,” he finished sheepishly as, at my annoyance, my anger started to dissipate.
 
“And my skirt?” I asked without really wanting to as I removed the pillow from my face, having noticed that I was now only wearing my Alexander Wang tank from last night.
 
“Had to help you out of it when you almost tripped trying to remove it yourself,” he said with grin.
 
“Not one of my finest moments huh,” I said abashedly as he chuckled.
 
“Its ok babe, nothing I haven’t done before,” he said, standing up and nonchalantly making his way to my bathroom as I realised that he was in his boxers.
 
“Excuse me, could you not prance around my room in your freakin boxers!” I said indignantly as I stood up and followed him.
 
“Again, nothing I haven’t done before,” he said cockily with yet another grin.
 
“Ok enough, time to go now,” I said as I started going around my room and gathering his things, having had my dose of Nathan for the morning. “Out you go,” I said, pushing him towards my balcony as he simply laughed.
 
“I’ll see you at the party later?” he asked as he straddled the edge of the railing while I handed him his things.
 
“Sure,” I sighed, watching as he landed onto my lawn and hoped that my parents were too engrossed in their plates to notice the half-naked 18 year old running across their backyard.
 
Throwing on a pair of shorts, I quickly brushed my teeth and washed my face before finally making it downstairs.
 
“Look who’s finally up,” my mom said with a grin as I took a seat at the kitchen counter, causing my dad to look up from his newspaper. “What do you want to eat honey?”
 
“Just toast,” I mumbled, keeping my head down as I felt my dad’s eyes glued to the back of my head.
 
“How was your night?” he asked as my mom placed a steaming mug of coffee in front of me.
 
“Good I guess,” I answered with a shrug.
 
“Good good,” he mumbled, turning his head back to his newspaper.
 
Taking that as a sign that I was in the clear, I looked up from my mug, smiling at my mom as she handed me the slices of toast.
 
“Next time one of my players is gonna stay over, I’d appreciate it if they’d at least use the front door. I didn’t like it back then and I don’t like it now, ” he said, never looking up from his newspaper as I grimaced.
 
“Sorry,” I said softly, my eyes now glued to my toast.
 
“What time are you gonna go to the hospital?” my dad suddenly asked.
 
“Hospital? Why?” I asked, completely confused by his question.
 
“Coolidge’s sister got admitted into the hospital last night.” “Elise? What happened?” I asked as my toast dropped from my fingers.
 
“She had a bad seizure, her brother found her and they rushed her to the hospital,” my mom explained while I was already on my feet.
 
“I have to go shower,” I mumbled, ignoring my mom’s call to finish my breakfast as I rushed up the stairs to get ready.
 
My hangover was at the back of my mind as I threw on a pair of jeans and a simple button down shirt, tying my hair up hurriedly as I made my way back down, phone in my mouth. My mom handed me my wallet and keys on my way out and before long I was on my way to the hospital, making a quick stop to buy some tulips for Elise.
 
It hadn’t occurred to me that I would have to face Allen until I had already reached the door to her room. With everything going on this morning I hadn’t had time to think back to what had happened last night, much less figure out how I felt about it. Taking a deep breath, I decided to just wing it and knock before someone called security for the weirdo staring at the hospital door with flowers in her hands.
 
Gently turning the door knob, I slowly opened the door, smiling as my eyes fell on Elise.
 
“Elise!” I said as I walked in, nearly squashing the flowers as I engulfed her in a hug.
 
“I’m so glad you came. You’re awesome,” Elise said with a smile, watching me as I placed the tulips on her bedside table.
 
“Of course I came. We’re friends after all,” I said softly, turning back to her as my hand automatically moved to tuck a stray strand of hair behind her ear.
 
Knowing that I couldn’t ignore the figure slouched on a chair at the other side of her bed any longer, I plasted a smile on my face and turned to Allen.
 
“Hi, Allen. How are you?” I asked, trying to test the waters.
 
“Hi, Riley. Fine. And you?” he answered, barely glancing at me before turning his gaze back to the TV.
 
“Fine,” I answered, crossing my arms as I realised how hostile he was going to be.
 
Thankfully I didn’t have to suffer through much more of the tense conversation as Ben walked in a few seconds later, making a beeline for Elise. Smiling a greeting at him, I stepped back and let them have their moment, my eyes instead focused on Allen who still refused to look at me. I wasn’t exactly used to being ignore and wasn’t taking it particularly well as I stood in my corner of the room, lips purse and now ignoring him back.
 
“Here you go, Pumpkin,” Dr Coolidge said, handing Elise a cup of yoghurt as he walked into the room.
 
“Hello, Riley. Glad to see you,” he said, charming as ever as he squeezed my shoulders before turning towards Ben. “Hello, young man. I’m Mr. Coolidge. You are?” he asked as Ben seemed to tense up at his presence.
 
The rest of the visit remained as tense as I made conversation with Elise and Dr Coolidge while Allen continued to actively ignore me and Ben joined in occasionally, not really seeming at ease.
 
“Well Ben we should probably go,” I finally said, decided to put the poor guy out of his misery. “I’m sure they want to be alone,” I added, saying quick goodbyes before finally exiting the room.
 
“So...” I started once we were out of the doors, a slight smile on my face as I walked with him towards the exit. “You and Elise huh?” I asked with a grin as he rolled his eyes.
 
“Shut it Jackson,” he mumbled, only making my grin wider.
 
“Elise, who would have thought,” I continued, ignoring him completely. “You were definitely very couple-y last night, slooow dancing and all googly eyes,” I joked, enjoying being the one able to tease him for once.
 
“I’m surprised you even remember that much, didn’t seem like you could even see straight,” he answered, completely straight-faced.
 
“Fair enough,” I said as we both neared our cars. “But seriously Ben,” I said, pausing at my car and causing him to turn and finally look at me, “be good to her.”
 
I didn’t wait for a response as I got in the car, checking my phone and seeing various messages reminding me of the bonfire tonight.
 
******
 
I made it to the beach a little before sunset, having finally showered, washed my hair and changed. My headache seemed to have started again as I neared the beach, forcing me to leave my Ray-Bans firmly on my face as I stepped out of the car, bag on my shoulder and iced coffee in hand. Lani was thankfully the first person I saw.
 
"Just wanted to put it out there that you and Connor are the cutest couple,” I said, already knowing what her response would be as I took a sip of my drink.
 
"Rj we have had this conversation, we aren't a couple, I would tell you if we were,” she answered with an eye roll as we walked around the beach, trying to get closer to the bonfire.
 
"What we talking about ladies?" I heard Ben ask, seemingly coming out of nowhere as he and Nathan joined us.
 
"How RJ is never getting back together with Nathan,” Lani said with a fakely sweet smile while I automatically elbowed her, not wanting her to pick an argument with him, especially after what had happened that morning.
 
"That sure is a wonderful conversation,” Ben answered with a laugh, cocking his eyebrows amusedly at Nathan.
 
"You know Lana you really are a catch, I see why Connor likes you so much,” Nate said just as Connor joined our little group.
 
"Really I thought it was because she has pretty hair and always throws parties with booze,” Ben said lazily as we all laughed at his comment.
 
It didn’t take long for our group to disperse; Lani heading off with Connor, Ben leaving to find Elise who had just arrived and Nathan having been called by the football team for bonfire duties. Finding myself alone, I boringly sipped on my iced coffee, looking around the beach for someone I wanted to talk to. My eyes of course fell on Allen who was sitting by himself a little further off. Deciding that this was as good a time to try and talk to him, I anxiously started making my way to him, not quite sure of what I would say once there.
 
“Hey,” I said softly, standing over him as he absentmindedly played with the sand around him.
 
“You again,” he said flatly, barely looking at me.
 
“Are you just gonna keep not looking at me?” I asked skeptically.
 
“Planning to,” he said, eyes still glued to the horizon.
 
“Your loss,” I said with a shrug, seating myself right next to him. We sat in silence for a few minutes as I waited for him to say something. Or even just give me a glance.
 
Deciding to take matters into my own hands, I stuck my cup into the sand before removing my tank and lied back down on my elbows, making sure that the girls were being showcased perfectly in my bandeau bikini top. It didn’t take him long to give me a look from the corner of his eyes.
 
“You peeked!” I said with a smile, ridiculously excited by my small victory.
 
“Kind of hard not to,” he admitted begrudgingly before finally looking at me and giving me a half-assed smile.
 
“I’m sorry Allen,” I said, waiting for his response.
 
“For what exactly?” he asked, now seeming more interested in what I had to say.
 
“For leaving like that...” I started, “and for kissing you I guess. I mean, I wasn’t exactly sober and you were being so nice to me and, in a way, I guess I kind of took advantage of that?” I continued, not really sure where I was going with this.
 
“You think you took advantage of me?” he asked as he seemed to be trying to keep down a smile.
 
“In a way!” I exclaimed. “I mean, you were being nice and trying to cheer me up and stop me from drowning and I just forced myself onto you like that!”
 
“Riley you didn’t exactly force yourself onto me and its not like it was unpleasant,” he said, causing me to blush as I looked away from him and instead took yet another sip from my coffee.
 
“My problem was with you leaving,” he continued, “and with Nathan of all people.”
 
“I know, not a smart move,” I answered with a grimace, “I just panicked and needed a ride and, well, Nathan doesn’t really say no to me usually,” I explained sheepishly.
 
“I’m sure,” he said sarcastically as I realised I had stepped in it again.
 
“Look, I just don’t want things to be weird between us anymore,” I said importunely. “I really did mean what I said last night and if it makes you feel better my first choice of a ride was Lani,” I said, trying to lighten the mood.
 
“Fine, no more weirdness,” he said, giving me his hand to shake. “I should go check on Elise.”
 
“Right, probably would be a good idea to join the party anyway,” I said, motioning towards the growing crowd surrounding the bonfire as I stood up and started walking back with him.

Friday April 12th: What a perfect way to end Spirit Week with a football game tonight at our home field! Come grab hotdogs, drinks, popcorn and some West Beverly Tigers gear and have fun watching your school’s football team (or at least try to). Afterwards, Hunter and some of the other football players are having a party at the captain’s house on the beach, if you get invited.
 
Loooong story, I'm sorry but I had a lot of little things to set up for future stories
 
Included; @rebelfratter @druesaysrelax @peaceloveglitter
 
“Are we doing anything after the game?” my sister asked from the depths of her wardrobe as I stood in her bathroom drying my hair.
 
“Don’t think so. There’s a party after the game, everyone’s gonna be there,” I called back as I ran some serum through my curls and started rummaging through Leah’s drawers for the stash of ribbons I’d left there for game nights.
 
Ever since she’d moved out of the house and into her own apartment we’d started a tradition of getting ready for games at her place. Whether she lived at home or not, dad would still kill her if she didn’t attend game nights with all of us.
 
“You suck, I want to go out with my sister,” she said as she walked into the bathroom, giving me a pout in the mirror as I eyed her outfit.
 
“Are you sure you wouldn’t rather go out with someone else?” I asked incredulously as I looked at the black McQueen number she had decided to wear. “You’re gonna wear that to the game?”
 
“I’ll just throw a coat over it,” she answered with a shrug, more focused on her own hair than my question.
 
“You’re gonna get people talking again,” I warned her, already expecting dad’s rant over the scene Leah was no doubt trying to cause tonight.
 
“I’m gonna take over mom’s line soon, I need to represent the company properly,” she said absentmindedly.
 
“Mom doesn’t dress like that,” I countered.
 
“Mom’s 45!” she answered with a laugh.
 
“And you’re going to a football game,” I tried to rationalise, knowing it was futile to really bother. Leah always did whatever she wanted anyway.
 
“See that’s where you’re wrong,” she said as she turned towards me, a glint in her eye. “I’m not going to a football game, I’m simply stopping by one on my way out to drinks with my dear sister who loves me too much to say no.”
 
“Oh soo much better,” I said sarcastically, pushing all my stuff back into her drawer before heading back to her room to put on my white sneakers. “But fine, I’ll go,” I gave in, “You’re dropping me off at the party after though!”
 
“Whatever my baby sister wants,” she said with the smug smile she reserved for whenever she got her way.
 
******
 
The crowd was roaring as we all watched Allen kick the ball through the field goal, leaving the team with a safe enough lead for the rest of the game. My voice was starting to get hoarse as I lead the cheers once more, trying to keep the crowd excited as an opposing player tackled Allen and brought him down as he tried to score a touchdown.
 
“Looks like its Coolidge’s night huh?” one of the sophomore cheerleaders said to me.
 
“Yep, don’t think Nathan’s gonna like that,” I said with a laugh, catching a familiar figure from the corner of my eye. “Elise!” I called after the statuesque blonde who didn’t seem to hear me as I watched her glittered brogues go back up the bleachers.
 
Half-running to her, I grabbed onto her wrist before she had time to climb up too far.
 
“Hi, Elise. It’s been forever since we’ve talked,” I said, smiling brightly at her as she giggled slightly before saying hello.
 
“So how are you?” she asked me softly.
 
“I’m great, just happy to see you,” I answered honestly, not having had a chance to really talk to her outside of school since she’d left the squad for Allstars. “How are you?”
 
“I’ve been good,” she said absentmindedly before trailing off.
 
“Allen’s topnotch tonight huh?” I said, trying to keep the conversation going as I nodded towards the field.
 
“Yeah, my parents are embarrassingly proud,” she said with a small smile as she turned towards the bleachers, her gaze falling on her parents wearing matching t-shirts in support of their son. I couldn’t help but laugh at their enthusiasm as I heard the squad calling for me.
 
“Well I should go but I’ll see you later at the party?” I asked as I started backing away, smiling as she nodded back.
 
The rest of the game was a breeze with the team managing to maintain their lead throughout. I made my way through the crowd to my dad, engulfing him in a hug as soon as I was within reach.
 
“Congratulations dad.”
 
“Riley, hurry up, we gotta go,” Leah said as she neared us before giving our dad a peck on the cheek. “Good game dad.”
 
“What’s that about? Where are you taking her?” my dad asked, ignoring both of our congratulations as he instead turned to scowl as Leah.
 
“Just some sister bonding time,” she answered slyly, hooking her arm onto mine as she started dragging me towards the changing rooms.
 
“You be careful with her!” he called out after us as Leah simply shook her head.
 
“Come on golden girl, go get yourself dolled up,” she said, smacking me on the ass as we reached the locker rooms.
 
“Now you just sound like Nathan,” I joked, looking back at her grimace over my shoulder.
 
“Ew,” was the last word I heard from her way before the door swung shut.
 
******
 
“Oh god, ok, time to go,” I said, trying to ignore the sting of the shot we had just taken as I grabbed my Versace shoulder bag from the bar and took hold of Leah’s arm.
 
“Fine, we’ll go,” she laughed, throwing the lemon rind that she had been sucking on towards the bar as I dragged her towards the exit.
 
“Are you sure you can drive?” I asked as she forced me to pause in front of the door.
 
“Please, I’m fine,” she answered nonchalantly, running her fingers through her hair before fluffing up my own.
 
“What are you doing?” I asked as I couldn’t help but giggle at her efforts while trying to push her hands away.
 
“You’re gonna want to look good,” she said as pushed open the doors.
 
I was blinded by the flashing lights before I even had a chance to step outside. Ignoring everything happening around me, I instead focused on making my way to Leah’s car, glad that I had opted for ballet flats tonight.
 
“Of course you’d pick the place with the most photogs outside,” I said with an eye-roll once she had made it in. “I don’t know if the flashes got me sober or made me dizzier,” I joked as she started the car.
 
“I’m sorry,” she said with a grimace. “Where am I taking you?”
 
“Captain’s beach house,” I mumbled, settling in for a quick nap while waiting to get there.
 
By the time Leah dropped me off I was now decidedly less stable on my legs than at the beginning of the night. A cup of beer was put in my hand as soon as I stepped in and a quick look around the room told me that most of the people here were in more or less the same state as me. Looking for a familiar face, I nearly stumbled into Ben’s outstretched hand to Elise. Looking sheepishly at him, I instead plopped myself on the sofa they had just vacated, deciding to let people come to me instead.
 
I didn’t have to wait long as I felt the unoccupied end of the couch shift under the weight of someone. Turning to greet my new companion, I smiled as I saw Allen sitting next to me, sipping from a little red cup of his own.
 
“Hiii Allen,” I said, smiling brightly at him as he gave me an amused look.
 
“Hi Riley, how are you?” he asked as I detected the hint of a smile he was trying to hide.
 
“I am doing splendid!” I said, over-articulating a little as this time he fully chuckled. “I don’t know if you know Allen,” I said, lowering my voice as I leaned in closer to him, signalling for him to do the same, “but I’m on the cheerleading squad.”
 
“I am indeed aware of the fact,” Allen answered with mock seriousness.
 
“Good,” I said, patting his knee proudly. “But see, I’m also the coach’s daughter and I think that makes me quite an authority on football matters,” I continued, nodding my head solemnly throughout.
 
“Oh I would have to agree Riley,” Allen answered as I couldn’t help but giggle at his seriousness.
 
“Well then you should be very proud when I say that I thought you were amazing in that game, wouldn’t have won it without you,” I said before taking a sip of my cup and remembering it was beer. That wasn’t going to do.
 
“Thank you Riley, I take it to heart,” he laughed, placing a hand on his chest as I stared at his cup. “Do you want some?” he asked uncertainly, noticing where my gaze was going.
 
“Depends, what’s in it?” I asked, eyeing the cup suspiciously.
 
“Beer.”
 
“Meh,” I said before an idea struck. “Oh my god, let’s go for a swim!” I exclaimed, suddenly ridiculously excited as I stood up, taking hold of Allen’s hand as I headed towards the porch.
 
“I don’t think that’s a good idea Riley,” Allen said quickly as he followed me.
 
Taking my flats off, I threw them behind me as my toes finally touched the cold sand.
 
“Come on, it’ll be fun!” I said, taking my bag off my shoulder and leaving it behind too. “Be adventurous Allen, its our senior year!” I said, this time removing my belt as Allen hurried behind me, gathering all of my things along the way.
 
I was about to step into the no doubt freezing water when Allen’s strong arms grabbed me by the waist and lifted me up, carrying me away from the ocean.
 
“How about we have a little sit before going in huh,” he said as he lowered me onto the sand, pilling all of my stuff next to me.
 
“Niaaw, you’re so lovely Allen,” I said sweetly as I hugged all of the stuff he had picked up for me. “You’re like...seriously...like, the nicest person on the team,” I said, now in full on cali cheerleader mode, as I tended to get when I had a bit too much to drink. “And as you know, I’m also an authority on that,” I said bitterly as I lay down on the sand, not caring that I would have to go through hell to wash all of the sand out of my hair the next day.
 
“Thank you Riley,” he said softly, lying down next to me with his head turned my way. “Nathan was an idiot you know.”
 
“I don’t know, she was pretty hot Allen,” I said begrudgingly.
 
“I’m sure she was nothing compared to you,” he said, causing me to turn towards him.
 
“You’re just full of shit Coolidge,” I joked with an awkward laugh.
 
“And you’re a pretty great girl Jackson, even Nathan knows that,” he said softly and before I knew it we were kissing.
 
I was kissing Allen Coolidge.
 
Except that thought didn’t really cross my mind.
 
The only thing that I was thinking of was how nice he was being and how soft his lips were and my god I should probably have had a mint before this.
 
And then it hit me; I was kissing Allen Coolidge.
 
So of course I decided to bolt.
 
“I have to go,” I said as I hurried to my feet, level-headed once more as I gathered my things and started running barefoot back towards the house.
 
I ignored Allen as he called after me, instead trying to find Lani to take me home. Noticing Connor’s jersey at the other end of the room, I started making my way towards her only to notice that she was indeed in the company of the owner of said jersey. Not wanting to ruin their night, I instead starting looking for the next best person on the list, who wasn’t really such a good choice in the first place.
 
“Where am I taking you?” Nathan asked as we sat in his car a few minutes later.
 
“Home,” I said simply, feeling horrible for what I had done. Except I wasn’t sure which part I really regretted; having kissed Allen or gotten in the car with Nathan.

name: Riley Jackson
age: 18
birthday: February 4th
 
likes: football, cheerleading, sports, hanging out with the girls, the beach, sour candy, bright colours, mascara, heels, books, pop music, coloured eyeliners, macaroons, berries, vodka, bubblegum, singing along to the radio, english classes, getting dressed up, feeling pumped up before going out
dislikes: heavy metal, slugs, loud people, goth girls, being bored, absinthe, cold weather, high-low hemlines, chain stores, slobs, cigarettes, badly applied eyeliner, tea with milk, failing grades, naps, cake-y foundation
 
appearance: Cali girl with curves and an athletic body from cheer practice. Riley likes to keep things simple and natural looking; her hair’s been the same colour since she was a kid and she doesn’t sport any tattoos or piercings except for two studs in her ears. On normal days she’ll simply wash her hair and let it air-dry into its natural waves, put on some moisturiser and sunscreen, a generous amount of mascara and a dab of lip balm before being on her way. She’ll have more fun with her look at night, experimenting with makeup and mixing up the hairstyles once in a while. On game nights it’ll be ponytail, bb cream, blush, her ever faithful mascara with a dash of eyeliner and lip stain.
height: 1m73
weight: 55kg
 
music: Feel-good songs. Anything with a good beat that she can rock out to or sing along on the radio. Riley tends to obsess over a particular song and listen to it non-stop for a week; lately its been Icona Pop’s I Love It. Some of her favourite artists include; Maroon 5, Katy Perry, Calvin Harris, Rihanna, All American Rejects, Bruno Mars, Jessie J, Ed Sheeran, Kings of Leon, Train, The Script...
food: Riley is known for her sweet tooth; cookies, sorbets, chocolates, meringue, brownies...you name it, Riley’s snacking on it. For actual meals, you can’t beat Italian food.
style: She likes to be comfortable, wearing shorts or skirts with simple tops. Nothing overly complicated. She’ll occasionally throw on a blazer if the weather requires but the one constant thing in her outfits will always be colours. Riley loves colour and is not one to be seen in all black.
 
personality: Bubbly and good-hearted. Out-going but soft-spoken. RJ’s the cheerleader that’s in it for the love of the game. Far from the bitchy cliché of the head cheerleader, she tries to be nice and get along with everyone, even if some dismiss her as nothing more than an airhead jock groupie. You can always see her with a smile on her face as she’s not one to let others see her when she’s down or let anyone be aware of struggles she might be dealing with.
bio: Growing up with a football coach for a dad, when Riley’s on the sidelines cheering for the team she’s one of the few that can actually follow all the plays being done on the field. The whole family lives and breathes football with RJ and her sister being dragged to every game night since they were kids, cheering from the bleaches with their mom. Being a cheerleader for West Bev seemed like a natural progression for Riley, something which her bubbly personality easily fell into. Riley likes to play at the exemplary student and perfect daughter but she’s none-the-less always up for a good time; she rarely misses out on parties and has been dating exclusively from the football since she turned 13. Riley’s had an easy time in High School with everything seeming to always go her way and wants nothing more than to make the most of her last year before everything changes forever.
 
family:
Daniel Jackson, 46 (Dylan Mcdermott): Riley’s father has been coaching West Beverley Hills High’s football team for years and lead them to several State Championships. Originally from Texas, moving to Beverley Hills wasn’t his first choice but the job was a godsend to his wife who couldn’t wait to get back to her own hometown. Wanting to please his wife paired with an enticing enough paycheck instigated the family’s move when Riley was 10. Daniel’s a tough but understanding coach and tends to try to lead his family in the same way he does his team.
Judith Jackson, 45 (Rose Byrne) - Riley’s mother owns a small, successful boutique on Rodeo Drive where she showcases many of her own designs. She’s rarely in the shop itself though, choosing to leave it to the bevy of sales girls while she micromanages from home. Working on her designs at night, she focuses on her family and duties as the coach’s wife during the day, not minding that she’s spreading herself so thin as long as she can be there for her family at all times.
Leah Jackson, 23 (Leighton Meester) - Riley’s older sister attended the California College of Arts in hopes of taking over their mother’s line and boutique. During this time she built herself quite the reputation as a socialite, attending parties around town, dating a slew of pretty boys and even landing herself a few stints on gossip blogs. Leah and Riley have always been close, which for sisters also means a lot of fighting but they always manage to make up with all being forgotten in a matter of hours.
 
past/current relationships:
- Nathan Andrews (Hunter Parrish) - QB 1 of the football team, the two dated for a year before calling it quits last year after she found out he had cheated on her with a leaving senior. Nathan and Riley are friends now but things can sometimes get awkward when either one of them parades a new fling in front of the other. Its clear that there are still feelings left there but RJ just can’t get past the fact that he cheated on her long enough to really give it a try again.
best friends: anyone?
 
model: Minka Kelly
taken by: |-annelise-|

Wednesday April 10th: Wednesdays are the perfect fundraising days, so the West Beverly student council has teamed up with the entire senior class and we will be having a bake sale in the courtyard. Make sure you are there to either volunteer or support your school! And don’t forget to log in your volunteer hours!
 
Included; @rebelfratter, @peaceloveglitter, @young-grasshopper
 
“Your mother’s going to kill you,” my dad muttered from his seat at the kitchen counter, newspaper in hand as he tried to steal one of the fresh baked brownies I’d been making.
 
“Its not that bad,” I said dismissively as I pulled out the last tray from the oven and tried to find a place to let them cool. This proved harder to do than I thought as I realised that I’d manage to cover every single surface with either brownies or dirty dishes and discarded ingredients. “Maybe I should start cleaning a little.”
 
“I would,” he said, his hand reaching out for another one.
 
“Don’t touch that! You want a brownie, you’re gonna have to pay,” I warned him just as my mother walked in and stopped dead in her tracks.
 
“Riley Elizabeth Jackson, what have you done to my kitchen?!” she shrieked as my dad simply chuckled.
 
“Its not that bad! I’ll clean it up before I go,” I quickly said, finding a spot for the tray before grabbing a random dish and starting to wash it.
 
“You have to be at school in 30 minutes!” she said, taking the bowl out of my hands before starting to push me out of the door. “Just go shower, I’ll deal with all this.”
 
“No I’ll-”
 
“Go!” she shouted, spurring me into action as I hurried up the stairs and into the shower. By the time I was dressed and back downstairs she had already packed up all of the brownies and was busying herself with cleaning the flour off the kitchen counter.
 
“Thank you so much,” I said as I gave her a peck on the cheek before grabbing the bags, trying to put as many as I could fit inside my bag before heading out.
 
Wanting to make the most of my free period, I headed straight to the courtyard after parking my car and helped set up the tables for the bake sale.
 
“The posters look great Muffie,” I told her as I helped her stick the banner to one of the tables we had managed to get from a nearby classroom.
 
“Thanks,” she said softly as she smiled back at me. We didn’t hang out much outside of school but she was always nice to talk to and didn’t mind being hands on and helping out with these things unlike a lot of people at school.
 
Once all the posters had been set up I turned my attention to the pile of baked goods that people were dropping off every five minutes, trying to organise them and set up the prices so that we’d be ready in time for the lunch break.
 
“Need help?” a small voice asked as I looked up from the plate of cookies I was organising and saw Elise smiling shyly at me.
 
“That’d be great, I’m kind of swamped,” I admitted as my eyes fell on my phone, realising how little time I had left before break.
 
“What would you like me to do?” she asked as she put her bag down next to mine, crossing her hands on the table as she bit her lip slightly while waiting for me to answer.
 
“Umm, you could help me with the prices?” I asked her with a smile.
 
“Sure,” she said, tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear before taking the seat besides me. I slid over the markers and papers I had brought with me.
 
“How’s training with the Allstars?” I asked her, realising how long it’d been since we last talked. We hadn’t really seen each other since she’d left the squad, only nodding hellos and passing smiles as we walked by each other in hallways.
 
“Its good, we’re really busy with World’s coming up,” she started telling me, seeming somewhat more at ease as she talked about the gruelling workouts and training sessions. “Its hard work but I like it,” she finally said, nodding to herself as her hand daintily wrote down the price of an oatmeal cookie.
 
“I would say I’m happy for you but I kind of secretly hate it,” I joked as she quickly turned towards me, surprised at my words. “The squad isn’t the same without you,” I said sincerely, smiling at her as she relaxed at my words.
 
“RJ our fathers gossip like teenagers,” Lani announced with an eye-roll as she walked towards our table. I mouthed a thank you to Elise as she took half of the price tags and moved to the other table as people started flooding in once the bell had rung.
 
“I know, its like they’re 15 year old girls,” I answered with a smile, knowing too well how my dad could get involved in the football team’s, and by extension the whole school’s, lives.
 
“Who’s a 15 year old girl?” the man himself asked as he stopped in front of our table. Lani and I simply laughed louder at his raised eyebrow. "Better not goof off ladies, I happen to be a valuable customer.”
 
"What can I get you dad?” I finally ask him.
 
“I’ll have those damn brownies you wouldn’t let me touch this morning,” he grumbled as I started packing up a few of them.
 
“The senior class and student council are very grateful for you support,” I tell him as he hands me the money.
 
“I’m sure they are,” he said sarcastically as he walked off.

Challenge 2: Circus-Themed Editorial. You will get to pose with an animal. Nerves might get a hold of you, but try not to let it show in front of the camera.
 

The atmosphere was somewhat tense as Hye-Ri told us that Jirina had been eliminated. Shanti and Amelia had similarly subdued looks as we anxiously waited for her to let us know our points. Knowing that someone from our team had been eliminated in the first week had the effect of a cold shower and all I could think of was my points and how close I could have been to being eliminated. I had been confident of my pictures from the previous week but you could never really know until elimination.
 
“Kayla,” Hye-Ri finally said, prompting me out of my thoughts as I looked up at her. It struck me once more how stunning she really was, wearing a canary yellow leather jacket but still managing to have the attention go straight to her face.
 
“You received a total of 50 points in the first challenge, congrats,” she said with a small smile. “You seemed a little nervous but once the photographer started snapping pictures, you didn't hesitate and brought your game on,” she continued, sliding the picture that had been picked for elimination towards me as she scribbled something into her notebook. “Confidence and grace are two of your strengths. You should try to get comfortable before the shoot. I have faith that you will be huge in the fashion industry,” she said, my hear fluttering somewhat at her words, before turning her attention to Amelia.
 
I could barely listen as she commented on the other’s performance, my eyes glued to my picture instead. I’d been in photo shoots before this but I couldn’t help but be struck by how professional I looked and feel giddy at having gotten the opportunity to act at being in one of my favourite movies.
 
“Now for your next challenge,” Hye-ri said once she had given her feedback to Shanti, “will be a circus-themed editorial.”
 
Amelia perked up at those words, looking up from her one picture as I couldn’t help but smile at her enthusiasm.
 
“I know, very exciting theme, but you’re gonna have to work with animals and that can be challenging, to say the least,” she warned us as the three of us simply nodded, “Even when tamed they can be unpredictable and that’ll be something else you’ll have to handle in addition to the set and the costumes. But that doesn’t mean that I expect any less from you; I want nothing short of perfection as from now from you guys. I don’t want any of my girls in the bottom anymore,” she finished before letting us go to worry and prepare for the next day.
 
******
 
I was feeling pumped and ready for what was to come as I stepped into makeup that day, anxious to get started.
 
“Are you ready for today, Amelia?” I asked happily as she took a seat next to me.
 
“I would say I’m ready, yeah. I mean, how can you not be ready with a theme like this you know?” she answered with a nod, seeming just as excited as she was the previous day during the meeting as I couldn’t help but laugh.
 
“I totally get what you mean. The circus is always such an exciting thing so how can you not be excited for this shoot?”
 
“My thoughts exaaaactly,” she answered with a smile.
 
“So, I saw you talking to Zhen Li. What was that about?” I asked, having never gotten a chance to talk to her myself.
 
“Oh, she just wanted to make sure I was bringing my A-game today. She wants her girls to have fierce competition,” she answered with a shrug as I nodded in response.
 
“I guess that makes sense. Its like that idea of you wanting to compete against the best, so that way when you win you truly are the best,” I said slowly.
 
“Yeah, exactly. That’s what I thought too,” she said softly as the two of us pondered over that.
 
“Do you know what animal you’re posing with?” I quickly asked. trying to break the silence before I could start getting nervous.
 
“Hye-Ri told me I would be posing with a zebra, so..” she answered with a shrug. “What about you?”
 
“Oh? That should be interesting at least. I mean the stripes will probably make for interesting pictures you know?” I said as I automatically started picturing the shoot and possible poses before reminding myself that she had asked a question. “And I’m posing with a monkey.”
 
“Oh? That will definitely be fun, especially if its a little high energy monkey.”
 
“That’s what I was thinking. I just hope it doesn’t sit on my head and like pick at my hair for bugs or whatever,” I grimaced.
 
“Hey, that’ll make for an interesting picture at least!” she said as we both laughed.
 
“That’s certainly true,” I acquiesced as the makeup artist tapped me on the shoulder, signaling that she was done. “But I think it’s almost my turn to go and I need to get in my outfit! So I’ll see you later. Best of luck, Amelia!” I said as I stood up.
 
“You too, Kayla! Go have some fun with that monkey!” Amelia called out after me as I started making my way to wardrobe.
 
I looked at the outfit they had assigned to me, a world of difference from the one I had worn last week. The high-low hemline, thigh-high boots and lace body created a much sexier look than my previous 30s inspired outfit. Slipping on the outfit, I looked at myself in the mirror and could already picture myself on set, convinced that this shoot was gonna be fun.
 
Top hat in hand, I made my way to the set where the trainer was already waiting for me.
 
“You’re gonna be working with Scout today,” the rather cute trainer told me as the little monkey scampered around his shoulders. “He’s a bit shy so you’re gonna have to be gentle with him. Just extend your hand and let him make the first move,” he said softly as I slowly moved my hand towards the monkey and waited for him to make a move.
 
He seemed to look at my hand uncertainly for a bit before walking down the trainer’s arm, a tiny hand extended towards me as he latched onto one of my fingers.
 
“He seems to like you.”
 
“He’s very cute,” I said as I smiled at Scout.
 
“I’m gonna get him used to the set, I think someone wants to talk to you,” he said as he nodded in the direction of Hye-Ri who was walking towards me.
 
“Feel ready?” she asked as she directed me to the set.
 
“Definitely.”
 
“Good cause I’ve got something planned for you,” she said with smirk that worried me a little.
 
I finally understood it once we reached my set, seeing the circus hoop swinging from the ceiling with Scout already propped onto it.
 
“Its just a question of balance. Do you think you can handle it?” she asked as I nodded as soon as the words were out of mouth. “Great then. Remember, work with the animal but don’t focus too much on him; you’re posing has to be front and center.”
 
She left me with those words as a hairstylist accosted me, helping me put on my top hat without disrupting the flowers they had placed on my hair earlier. With help from the stage managers, I was hoisted onto the hoop and given a few minutes to get used to it before Scout was placed on me. The photographer started taking shots as I tried to move on the edge of the ring without disrupting the monkey and the tiny little hat that had been propped onto his head. As Scout grew more confident, he started climbing the edge of the ring and placed himself above me, giving me more freedom in my movements as I tried more adventurous poses while trying to remain graceful.
 
“Alright, its a wrap Kayla,” the photographer said.
 
Jumping off of the hoop, I was accosted by one of the cameramen as I was removing the top hat from my head and ruffling up my hair.
 
“How do you think it went?” he asked me in a bored voice, having probably asked that question about 10 times today already.
 
“I’ve got this,” I said confidently as I jokingly winked into the camera before heading to the seating areas to watch the rest of the contestants.

Monday April 8th: Spirit week is starting today at West Beverly Hills, and today there will be a pep rally all afternoon, starting at 1, right after lunch. That doesn’t mean you can miss your morning classes, and the teachers will all be there, so be careful!
 

Included; @glittercupcake @druesaysrelax @expiredsunshine
 

“You’re not wearing your uniform?” my dad asked, eyeing my outfit over the edge of his coffee mug.
 
“I’ll change later, don’t want to get it dirty,” I answered absent-mindedly as I tried to finish one more poster for the pep rally later today. “Mom do you think this stands out enough?” I asked, trying to lift up the banner where I had been painstakingly painting tiger stripes onto the letters of the team’s name.
 
“Its perfect sweetie,” she said as she walked by, kissing the top of my head before placing my abandoned plate of eggs into the sink.
 
“Are you sure? I think the R might be a bit crooked,” I pondered, staring at the stupid R I had been trying to make straight all morning.
 
“Staring at it any longer ain’t gonna make it straight darlin’,” my dad said as he put on his cap adorned with the bold typeface of the West Bev Tigers. “Come on, time to go to school.”
 
“Alright,” I sighed, putting the R to the back of my mind as I started packing up all my things. Throwing the few things I would need for school into my handbag, I then put all the paint supplies and posters into the box I was taking to school along with my pom poms as my dad held the front door open for me.
 
“You realise it’d be easier to carry all that if you were wearing flats?” he asked as he watched me scurry across the kitchen in my coloured Louboutin wedges, bag on shoulder and box against my hip as I grabbed an apple.
 
“Its Monday dad, I need pretty heels to get me ready for the week,” I answered, smiling as he rolled his eyes at my statement.
 
“What happened to good ol’ cowboy boots? Now those things are sturdy,” he mumbled as I burst out laughing this time.
 
“We’re not in Texas anymore dad, haven’t been for years,” I said as I started making my way to where he was still waiting for me. “Bye mom!” I called out to whatever room she had disappeared off to, hearing a faint answer coming from what seemed to be her office.
 
“I’ll see you at school dad,” I said, giving him a quick kiss on the cheek as I walked by on my way to my car.
 
“Don’t be late to the rally,” he called after me as he headed towards his own.
 
“Yes coach,” I joked, carefully putting the box in the backseat before finally getting in the car.
 
Surprisingly enough I still managed to make it to school with a bit of time to spare. I would have just enough time to set up the posters in the auditorium before first period English. Grabbing my bag from the passenger seat, I smiled and said a few hellos to the people passing by as I tried to grab the box, apple now discarded to the depths of my bag.
 
“Don’t forget the pep rally!” I called out as I passed by Tinsley and Ace, smiling brightly at them as I tried to get people excited for this afternoon, expecting the eye rolls that probably followed my greetings. It didn’t matter as long as it got them there.
 
I met up with a few of the cheerleaders near my locker and found the rest already waiting in the auditorium, trying to put up the main banner that was spanning the length of the room. With the whole squad working together it didn’t take us long to finish putting everything up and for me to be on my way to English.
 
Now walking at a much faster pace, I smiled at the few face that were still left in the halls, mentioning the pep rally every so often as I tried to reach my classroom before the bell. I made just in time and looked around for a free seat, my heart stopping for a second as I realised who I was gonna have to spend the next hour seated next to.
 
“Looking good Jackson,” Nathan said as he eyed my legs like he always did whenever I’d wear shorts.
 
“Can’t say the same Andrews,” I answered as I made my way to the back of the class where he was lounging with Ben. Ben smiled and gave me a nod as I approached them..
 
“RJ,” he said as greeting.
 
“Benjamin,” I answered with a smirk. “Will you grace us with your honour at the pep rally this afternoon?” I asked, already knowing his answer.
 
“As much as I enjoy listening to your squad’s tantalising cheers, I’m gonna have to pass,” he answered with a lazy smile.
 
“Thought as much, enjoy the parking lot,” I said with a smile, knowing he’d probably spend the rest of the afternoon there up to god know’s what. I actually did like Ben, he reminded me of home and even if he tended to make fun of me sometimes, his southern drawl was somewhat comforting. For however long we’d live in California and however much I made fun of my dad for feeling nostalgic, Texas would always be home.
 
“Well I, for one, will be looking forward to watching you cheer for me,” Nathan said, pulling me out of my thoughts as he grinned cockily at me.
 
“I cheer for the team Nate, not just you.”

“That’s what you say but I know you have eyes only for me,” he said slowly as played with the ends of my hair.
 
“Hands off Andrews,” I said with feigned indifference this time as I pulled my hair away from him. He answered with a chuckle as the class finally started.
 
***************
 
“I can’t believe you stayed home all weekend,” Lani said from her perch on the counter in the changing rooms.
 
“I had to finish those banners,” I said with a shrug as I zipped up the skirt of my uniform. Smoothing out none-existent wrinkles, I grabbed the makeup bag Lani had taken out of my bag for me and started working on my makeup.
 
“Well you missed a hell of a party,” she continued, the sunglasses still on her face giving me an idea of just how much fun she’d had.
 
“I’ll come to the next one,” I said as finished applying my lip stain and moved on to my hair, trying it up into a smooth ponytail.
 
“If you don’t have any other head cheerleader duties to attend to,” she teased before jumping off from the counter, knowing I’d be ready to go soon.
 
“Attending parties is a huge part of those duties,” I joked, giving her a smile from the mirror before checking that my appearance was perfect. Everything had to be just so for the rally, there was a standard to maintain as West Bev cheerleaders.
 
“Right, its your job to be there to entertain the quarterback if he so desires,” she said with a smirk, making me gasp and turn my attention back to her.
 
“Not funny!” I exclaimed while still laughing slightly at her remark as I quickly threw all of my discarded clothes, heels and makeup into my bag. “Anyway, I’ve moved on from quarterbacks now,” I said with fake haughtiness now as I linked arms onto hers.
 
“Right, wide receivers more your thing?” she joked as I shook my head. We made our way to the auditorium, each taking our own direction once there as Lani went to meet up with friends while I joined the squad.
 
Making sure that all of the cheerleaders were in proper form, I gave one last look to the squad before leading them onto the stage, ready to start the routine we’d been working on all week.