I'm updating, so just be happy with that. Thanks to all my reviewers you've been very positive. No um honestly I have been working on this chapter for like a ….month. I had no inspiration what so ever. So I took my time and wrote a little by little. Hopefully the long chapter will score some points! Sorry again, I honestly have tried updating sooner.

Disclaimer: I do not own anything mentioned in this story that obviously isn't mine. Like John Trevolta, Von Dutch, Sum 41 and so on.

Lol, there's a scene in here that describes what Alec is wearing and looks like. I have to admit that the inspiration for his looks was taken off a photo a recently saw of Michael Phelps. I tell ya that guy has the hottest body in the world. So just think of Alec like him, but minus the face. Coz yeah I had already described Alec before I knew anything about Michael.

I thought that maybe if I pretended he wasn't there, then maybe he would take the hint and disappear leaving me the hell alone. I'm an expert and doing these things, not taking past situations into account. But after half an hour of ignoring the poor man I decided to cut him some slack and make myself available for the next round of 'trying-not-to-make-this-event-boring' scenarios. BIG mistake. Another 'whoops' on my behalf. Thinking back on it now, I realize his glare isn't so scary anymore. And his yelling, by god what did that man think he was doing? Ordering a thousand troops into attack mode. I think not. So why yell like I was his great-great-great-grandmother?

Because apparently I wasn't into my job! So he says. I mean how 'into' my job can I get? I'm sorry for not having an all too bright smile on my face every minute of the fricken day! Don't get my wrong I'm enjoying being personal slave for Mr. Gretchen, but the old coot is driving us - me - into over drive! I haven't had one break and it's already been an hour!

Can anyone say, Child Labor!?

Which puts me in my current situation. Because of my spark of kindness I unknowingly threw myself head first into a Kissing Booth! Yes you heard me right, a god damn Kissing Booth! Who the hell would pay two fricken bucks for a fricken kiss anyway?! Especially from ME! How desperate can one get? I am definitely feeling a bit bitter towards this situation. But they could at least charge more, I mean it is my lips they're kissing, they're worth more than two bucks. First thing I do when I get home is wash my mouth out, and scrub my lips. Then bury this down into one of those moments I never want to remember.

"This isn't fair!" I slapped my hand down on the surface of the 'Kissing Booth' stand trying to emphasize my point. A painful tingling feeling shot through my hand and I scrunched my face up.

Mr. Gretchen gave me a menacing look and strode away without a glance back. But he did manage to say one last thing. "When you reach $100 then you can leave, but until then you're staying put."

I began doing the calculation in my head…..hmmm that comes to a grand total of….fifty kisses. WHAT?! Wait a minute let me do that again. Hmm, divide one hundred by two.

Oh hell no! Fifty fricken kisses. You have got to be kidding me!

I gaped at him in disbelief. It was hard trying to keep all my profanities inside, so I settled for a small mumbled 'screw you'. After my shock I looked around and saw a non-existent line. I covered my face in embarrassment. It was humiliating, degrading and very, very mean! I was stuck in some mortifying unfunny sick joke! I didn't want anyone to see my tomato red face so I placed it firmly down on the cold hard surface of the stand. I closed my eyes tightly and waited for the humiliation to end.

"Stupid Melena, couldn't even finish her damned job!" I hissed through the closed space my face was connected with. Melena, a senior in school had volunteered to create and participate in this ridiculous thing, but she disappeared about fifteen minutes ago with some customer from Cambridge and now I'm being forced to now take charge of this stand. I'm beyond peeved. I'm fucked off! Oops, sorry I mean 'fricken'.

Soon after a felt a soft tap on my shoulder and somebody above clearing their throat. I cracked opened one eye, followed by the other rather hesitantly. Then slowly I moved my head, and straightened up. I glanced in front of me, and all around to see about half a dozen guys lined up before me. My eyes widened. The first guy in front had both eyebrows raiser and a small smile. His head was slightly titled. I gave him a funny look. I'd never seen him before and I realized he had the Cambridge uniform on.

I hesitated a bit and looked behind him just as two more guys joined the queue. I shook my head in disbelief then focused my attention back towards the Cambridge guy with bleach blonde hair. Only it was natural.

"Uh…can I help you?" My voice was shaky and I felt myself blush.

Oh god I'm embarrassing myself.

The guy in front chuckled. "Well this is a Kissing Booth.." he paused to look around. "..and you are the only one standing here, so I'm guessing…." his eyes focused fully on me, well my lips. I blushed. "..that you must be the kisser?"

My eyes widened in shock and I was stunned for just a second. I blushed again. "Hurry up mate, we want a kiss sometime tonight!" Someone down the line yelled. I swear every time they mentioned kissing I went ten times redder.

"Yeah, right. That's me but-"

Cambridge guy held up a hand in realization and pulled a two-dollar note out of his pocket. He handed it to me. "Sorry, money first right?"

I stuffed the money in a half full jar on my right and glanced back at the guy not knowing what to do. I shuffled my feet around and preyed for someone to save me. The line was getting longer every second that went by and I was dreading kissing each and every one of them.

Taking deep breaths I moved forward motioning for Cambridge guy to lean forward also. He complied and I pressed my lips to his lightly, then moved back. My face was so red I could feel it burning, especially my ears. I smiled a little and looked around as we stood in an uncomfortable silence.

The Cambridge guy had a dazed look on his face. His eyes glinted and he grinned down at me. "Wow," he breathed.

I recovered from my embarrassment and smirked jokingly. "Was I that good?" I chuckled.

He laughed and scratched the back of his head. "Well yeah, but the other chick only kissed on the cheek."

I did not see that one coming. "But I thought…" My mind wondered off as I stood in silence. I spluttered on my next words.

"Oh crap."

Fifteen kisses -on the cheek, although some did complain because they saw my first kiss, but really, who cares?- and thirty bucks later I was beginning to get the hang of this. My lips were a bit swollen from all the pressing, but hey I was getting closer and closer to that big one hundred.

Only seventy more dollars to go and my customers were still coming on strong. Even surprising myself. The sun was finally hitting the hills and the clock rounded to 6:30 pm. Time was moving steadily and the heat had somewhat lessened. Chatter and music still drifted in the air and I could hear the sounds of little go-carts zooming around behind me. As the guy in front fished in his wallet for change I turned and glanced back just catching Owen running through a trail of little kids and plonking a helmet securely on one helmet-less go-carter. I smiled and waved my hand trying to catch his attention.

I love kissing as much as the next person, but some of these dudes were getting real creepy. Although I couldn't complain about the Cambridge guys. I swear that school just breeds hot people. I came across an ex of mine that came from Cambridge, and I have to say that the school also breeds arrogant, egotistic and highly annoying dimwits! I couldn't believe I even considered let alone actually dated the sad excuse of a gentleman. With his I'm-better-than-you-even-though-you-dumped-me attitude. I had a good mind to charge him four dollars. But he did buy two kisses.

So I guess I forgive him. Anything to get me the hell out of this stupid booth.

Owen turned to my pleading look. He did after all owe me from earlier. I stamped my foot as he just stood staring at me like some idiot trying to play charades, even though I was clearly not playing the stupid game. I huffed as he shrugged and shook his head. Defeated, I gave up and turned back to the young guy in front of me. He smiled and handed me a two-dollar bill.

Kiss, after kiss after kiss I was getting bored and highly irritated. I was fifty dollars away from freedom; I was also very close to just sticking my own money in the jar. But a pair of leather boots made me think otherwise. Josie even came for support, but a lot of good she did. I love the girl but her attitude changed so rapidly over the last few hours I was contemplating dragging her to see the school counselor. She sounded so depressed and bitchy. Bitchy and Josie do not go together. So I knew something was up, but before I could ask she left saying she had to speak to Jonny. A little trouble in paradise I think.

As I focused on my next customer my breath caught in my throat. My stomach did a complete 180 and I was by far baffled into stillness. I didn't expect to see Alec standing in front of me, head tilted and a small devious grin on his lips. My lips formed an 'o' and then my mouth started to move I was hoping to say 'hey' but all that came out was 'e-h'. I had to laugh, and so I did. Which confused myself as well as him.

I cleared my dried throat boosting my confidence a little. Leaning against the booth I peered at him. I checked to see no more customers expect Alec, so taking my time wasn't going to be an issue. Resting my elbow on the booth top I propped my chin on my palm while looking at him in bemusement. He did the same and lent his tall lean frame on the booth also. He surveyed me with one eyebrow slightly raised.

I smiled and shrugged. "What can I do for you Mr. Cooper?" I asked cheekily. I small giggle threatening to escape my rose parted lips.

Alec's tongue darted out of is mouth and licked his dry lips. I groaned in annoyance. What was this guy playing at? I think he's caught onto Josie's contagious disease of four moods in one day!

He straightened up a little and raised his head to look at the booth sign then to the money jar on my right. I gave his composure a quick once over and knew nothing special was going to be happening tonight. Except maybe one kiss on the cheek.

Whoop-de-fricken-doo!

"How much you making in this joint?" He asked, his deep voice always sending me into a melting frenzy. I hadn't noticed before but he was wearing a brown and white Von Dutch trucker hat. It looked casually thrown on shading his eyes giving him that manly mysterious look that always seemed to work for me. I smiled sensing that crushing feeling coming on. He wore a black plain t-shirt with two bold white letters across his chest. KC. What that meant, I dunno. It wasn't a tight t-shirt, but just loose enough for comfort. He wore loose but fitting around the edges designer Diesel jeans from what I could see. A sort of green light blue color with faded scratched areas on the thighs. And to top the look off a pair of white DC's. This guy had more fashion sense than the queen of fashion. cough Mrs. Bonze cough. Hard to admit but she does dress with sense. But it wasn't hard to admit that my dear boy Alec was looking mighty fine tonight, and I suddenly found myself more crazed than usual. I thought it was the way he was looking, but this is Alec, he always looked this hot.

So what was it?

"Two dollars." I stated simply with a small shrug.

Alec moved his hat a bit higher. I could now see his piercing blue eyes. I wished he would move his hat back. He laughed and moved his hand for the jar. He held it up and scanned his eyes across the glass. "I'd say there's at least forty - fifty dollar in here." He placed the jar back down. "Not too bad, although your social skills could be better. You're not very convincing right now, I'm beginning to rethink my decision to buy."

I laughed and shoved his shoulder back. "Is that so Mr. Charming? Well let's give my social skills a try shall we? How about you being the nice gentleman that you are, donate ..hmm…." I paused and pretended to think. "About fifty dollars."

Alec raised an eyebrow and nodded his head. "Nice, nice a bit better, I liked the 'Mr. Charming' thing." He stopped and grinned before shaking his head a little. "Not too convincing though."

I smiled sweetly at him and cleared my throat. "I mean, since you're such a brilliant member of society, and you love the children AND me so much. You'll be doing us both a huge favor by donating a small amount of money." I batted my eyelashes at him while twirling a golden lock of hair around my forefinger. Was I doing a great job or what?

"I could do that. But what do I get out of it?"

I thought for a while. "What I'm here to give." His eyes widened a bit when I said this. I rolled my eyes. "A kiss."

He looked a bit baffled.

Well I got my one hundred dollars and I was more than happy about slamming it down in front of Mr. Gretchen. Melena relieved me if the 'Kissing Booth' with a few extra marks on her neck. That girl has no self control what-so-ever. But never the less I was outta there, and good riddance.

I had this ridiculously huge grin on my face; I knew I looked funny, like those forever smiling clowns. But the difference between them and myself; I had a reason for smiling. Alec Cooper, as in damn fine, mouth watering, Alec Cooper just kissed me. Well my cheek. But hey, a kiss is a kiss.

I was a little paranoid that Owen might have seen it, but when I turned around I saw him helping a little girl on the go-carts. The sight was very cute indeed.

I was by far the happiest woman right now, I don't know about Alec, but I definitely felt something. He walked away before I could see any sort of emotion. He didn't back out of our deal, I got my fifty dollars. I felt a bit guilty and tried to tell him he didn't have to, but I think that's why he walked away. Because he knew I'd try to make him take his money back. Genius that one, not like I was actually going to give him his money back. cough.

The night obviously wasn't gonna get any better. I had about a dozen 'girls' aged between six and eleven lined up before me signing their names for my dance session and two boys, at five dollars apiece. My nerves were jumping around, but I felt a little better seeing that the only audience we had were the parents.

An adorable African American girl with the most gorgeous curly hair came bouncing up to me wearing a baby pink tutu. Glitter sprinkled delicately across her now deep red cheeks and a silver bow atop of her head. She smiled up at me and I saw her two front teeth missing. I smiled back and knelt down in front of her.

"What can I do for you sweetie?"

The girl looked in thought, then she smiled as if remembering. "Can you teach us how to do ballet? I love ballet."

I looked at her in horror. "Sorry, no can do….uh what's your name?"

The girl pouted and frowned at the same time crossing her arms stubbornly across her chest. She 'humph'ed and looked at me crossly. "My name is Candy."

Hmm… such a sweet name for a not so sweet kid.

"Well Candy, I can't do ballet," I pointed to the two little boys dressed in street clothes, baggy pants and little sweat bands on their arms. Large basketball shirts and a tilted sideways hat. Their frowns told me they didn't want to be here as much as I did. "…and I bet those two boys over there wouldn't appreciate me teaching them ballet."

She pouted then nodded before turning away. A few seconds later she came back wearing a pair of pink flannelette track pants with a matching jumper. I laughed and waved her over.

"You definitely came prepared didn't you?"

She smiled up at me. "Yup, I really wanted to do ballet, but this would be cool too." She spun around and posed. "Can we get started now?"

I nodded and called for the group of kids to all come in as we made our way up onto the stage. Ms. Hartley was off to the side controlling the music. She gave me an encouraging wave and then turned away with a stack of CDs in her hands.

I let out a deep breath and told all the girls to get into three rows of four. I then ushered the two boys up front by me. I had no idea what I was going to do so I decided to let the guys do the deciding. There were a handful of people sitting comfortably on the grass in front of the stage, all-cheering on their children. I chose to ignore them while the guys; named Juan and Davis ran over what we should do.

I was about to signal for music when a little six-year-old girl waddled up to me with her yellow sunflower sandals on, and a simple summer outfit, her hair tied up in pigtails. "My name is Willa can I have a hug?" She asked.

Juan and Davis laughed. I bent down and gave her a hug. Children are getting weirder these days.

"Can we go play on the merry-go-round?"

"Sorry sweetie, we're dancing now so go back to your place so we can get this over with." I said quietly.

"Then can we sing a song?"

"Maybe later."

"When?"

Juan and Davis were now laughing their little heads off muttering something about little girls being annoying. I snickered then replied to the little girl.

"When we finish dancing Juan and Davis here would be more then happy to sing a song with you and take you to play on the merry-go-round."

The two boys stopped laughing and glared at me. I stood up straight and clapped twice getting everyone's attention.

"Alright kids lets get started."

"Then we can go play on the merry-go-round!" said Willa excitedly. I rolled my eyes and chuckled.

I motioned for Ms. Hartley to turn up the music. A fast song came on and the boys and I turned to the group. We started off doing twirls and skips. Then the boys and I moved onto more complicated things like sliding then turning. It was quite amusing to see little kids jumping around. I felt quite proud of myself and declared this wasn't so bad. Even Ms. Hartley joined in and so did a few of the parents. The crowd got bigger but I was too engrossed in dancing with the children to take notice. I could hear Josie and Marcus cheering me on and I laughed. I hadn't had this much fun in a while.

We moved onto a sequence of dance moves. Four mothers joined the group and one dad. I'm sure the kids were making more progress than them.

"Ok guys, we're gonna do a sequence of moves and I want you to try." I yelled over the music. Their heads bobbed and they move to the beat. I showed them the sequence, I finished in eight beats. I then held up three fingers and counted them down.

"On three, ONE…TWO…THREE!"

"One…two…three…four…five…six…seven and eight! Now you try."

"Left foot…other left foot! Out, then in, then turn and jump."

"No Candy jump…not hop…no not on him…on the ground! Candy get off him!"

The dance lesson finished with the kids jumping around doing their own thing while Juan and Davis were off in the corner break dancing. Well they were just spinning on the ground more like it. But it was cute. The crowd clapped and my eyes widened when I realized just how many people were watching the whole time. My cheeks burned when I saw Alec standing with a group of mates. I hastily made my way back stage feeling completely embarrassed. The kids cleared the stage and I hung back while Ms. Hartley sorted through the music.

"Thanks for your help Elly, I know it wasn't something you would usually do." Ms. Hartley smiled at me and shook my hand.

"No problem, I surprisingly had a lot of fun. Despite the huge crowd." Ms. Hartley laughed and nodded her head behind me.

"Here comes the majority of the crowd. I'll hopefully see you in class tomorrow." Ms. Hartley left while I spun around and stared at a group of girls from Morris High making their way over to me. Most of them were black but I spotted a few blondes in the group. From what I could see there were six of them. There were two leading the group. One black girl with straightened black hair; her eyes were a soft hazel. She wore a pair of cream girls khaki pants and a red tank top, while the other girl was a blonde with pale skin and plain blue eyes. She wore black crops and a pink little top. I knew right away what these girls were. They were dancers.

I didn't know what to do, or what they wanted so I just stayed put and waited for them to reach me. A few seconds later they were in front of me, I could still see a small group of people hanging around the stage waiting for any more performances.

The black girl cleared her throat and looked me up and down. Before I started dancing I had thrown on a pair of comfortable sketchers.

"Saw you makin' a fool of yourself up 'dere. I thought you'z supposed to be a dancer?" She ridiculed with a smirk.

I snorted and rolled my eyes. These girls didn't scare me. "I'm not a dancer, I was made to do this." I paused and changed posture. "What do you want?" I asked surveying the groups. They all wore clothes made for clubbing. As in 'I'm-going-there-to-dance-not-find-a-guy.'

The blonde chick at the front laughed. "There's only one thing we want darlin'."

I frowned.

"Don't flatter yourself. We only want to dance." The black girl said.

I laughed. "Then go and dance." I said pointing to the vacant stage. They laughed again.

"No darlin', we meant we want to dance, as in-," She smirked and my eyes widened.

"You want to have a face off?" I choked in disbelief. They nodded. "With me?" They nodded again. "But I said I don't dance!" I hissed.

"We've seen you at the Raid, and we think you're a worthy opponent," the blonde girl said.

I laughed. "Oh this is funny. Not only am I out numbered, but I also don't want to. The Raid is different, I dance on impulse."

"What's the difference here?"

"Uh I don't want to." I snapped like it was the most obvious thing in the world. I backed away to the back exit. Bella came running up to me, a huge smile on her face. Behind her I saw a bunch of other girls from our school all looking eager for some reason.

"What's up Bell?"

She smiled and clasped my arms. "Do you know who they are?" She said pointing to the group of Morris girls who hadn't moved. They were still watching me.

I shrugged. "A bunch of chicks from Morris High that want to dance. Why?" I questioned.

Bella hit me lightly on the head. "Duh, those are the Rat Pack Girls."

I thought for a moment. "Say what?" I said confused.

Bella rolled her eyes and let go of my arm. "Those chicks are always dancing at the Raid and Hypnotic."

"I've never seen them before." I admitted.

"The one up the front on the right is called Jordane." She said pointing to the blonde girl. "The other one is Elektra."

"And…"

"Don't you see? This is our chance to get them back. They're always hating on us and we need to fight back."

I laughed. "Bell you're making this sound like a life or death situation. What's wrong with you? Can't you just ignore them and wait till the weekend to dance with them?"

"No!" She cried.

"Why?"

Bella sighed and the girls behind her gazed down. "They've been my enemy since I moved here. They call us snobs and prissy girls and all that shit, and quite frankly I'm sick of it. So now is the time for them to either put up, or shut up!"

Realization dawned on me. "Ohh, those are the Rat Pack Girls from seventh grade?" Bella nodded a smile on her lips. "They pushed you in a pile of rubbish." Bella sniggered.

"Don't remind me." she crossed her arms over her chest and glared behind me.

"But why do you need me?" I asked.

"Because they asked you to dance, not me. So you can say you have girls to back you up and then you won't be out numbered."

I thought for a while. "I really don't want to-"

"Please." Bella interrupted. Her pleading eyes were painful for me. I thought it over while Bella's voice echoed in my head. Her excitement and determination was sickening. I felt obligated to say yes, but my mind just didn't want to. Am I going to make a fool of myself? Will we win? I can't dance. And I don't want to!

Well I've already made a fool of myself up there, why not do it again? And besides, they accused me of being a stuck up snob that didn't like the concept of outdoor education. Basically because it was outdoor and educating. Puh-lease - I love the outdoors, and I don't mind making my brain work once in a while, it's getting it to co-operate and take in the damn math formulas that's the hard part….there's always a down side to my points.

So I agreed. I wasn't exactly as thrilled about this like Bella and the rest of her 'dancing girls' were. But I couldn't deny that I did feel some sort of exhilaration, but right now I think my nerves were taking over a bit. I bet if Ms. Hartley saw me up here she'd have a heart attack.

'The Morris Girls', or 'Rat Pack Girls' weren't all too surprised when I came up to them and said I've reconsidered and would like to challenge them to a dance face off. As nerve wracking as it sounds. A part of me was hoping that my friends, especially Alec would not be seeing this.

So it was Morris High School (public) vs. Westland Grammar (private). You might as well just label it The Privates vs. The Publics. That's certainly how everyone sees it.

"Aight, here are the rules." Jordane spoke over a quiet group of twelve girls. Six on each side. Music was still playing around the school grounds, but not distinct. The sun was finally down and the lights had switched on. The stage lights were also on and it was getting hot and stuffy on stage. People who passed the stage waited and watched us, sensing something was going to happen, and the atmosphere was still pumping with excitement. The crowds had some how gotten bigger and it was mostly teenagers and young adults that were still hanging around. It was past the little kids bedtime.

I could tell Bella was buzzing because she had an evil glint mixed with a huge grin on her face. The rest of the girls all huddled together hoping not to miss anything. The Morris chicks eyed us and stretched their limbs.

"Each girl goes one at a time into the center. At no point will anyone else interfere. The next girl from the opposing school goes next and the we keep rotating until everyone has done their thang."

We all nodded and I began to back out, but my feet stayed firmly on the ground. I didn't think this over enough. I forgot to even consider the fact that I don't have a dance routine made up. This was definitely on impulse. Lets just hope I don't run out of ideas and just sway back and forth until my turn was up.

"Each girl has a minute or less. Then we move onto the good stuff." Her eyes twinkled and she looked at me.

I looked around hoping she wasn't talking to me. "What?" I said attentively hoping I didn't sound to pushy.

Jordane just grinned and looked at Elektra. Elektra then started to speak.. "We dance in groups. No more than four at a time got it?"

We all nodded, and I had a great urge to shake my head and run for it, but that would definitely be making a fool of myself.

"Aiight so everyone's down with dat?" Again we all nodded. "Then lets get 'dis party started!" Elektra shouted and raised her fist in the air. Everyone cheered….well everyone except me.

A fast hip-hop beat flooded my ears and my head was thumping with nervousness. I had never done anything like this before and I was a little frightened. No understatement, I was shit scared. I spotted Josie and Owen standing near the front of the stage and gave them a subdued look. They mouthed something but I couldn't make it out. Their confused stares gave me an answer.

Bella came around and gave me a quick hug. She bent her head up and whispered to me, "Thanks El, I know you'll do great."

I smiled hesitantly and pushed her in the direction of the dance floor. She was up first. Her adrenalin was pumping and it paid off. Bella had her own unique style of dancing. The music was getting louder and it was hard to hear anything. Bella was feeding off the music as she freely danced. Each school was parted to each side leaving the middle completely open for everyone to see. I usually wasn't a shy person and I can handle speaking to a crowd, but dancing…that was something completely different.

It all started when I was eleven and took up folk dancing. It was my Mothers idea, so I did it just to make her happy. Worst decision I ever made. Kids made fun of me because I couldn't dance folk; they shunned me because I couldn't keep on my toes. I vowed never to dance in public again. But as the years went by and I started going to parties and going out night clubbing I got better. As long as the music was loud, as long as there were others dancing I was all good.

Bella moved off of the dance floor and stood huffing beside me. I looked over at her and smiled. She was awesome, and her happiness washed away my own problems. Her face was red but her enthusiasm was still clear. I had my own style, and folk dancing just wasn't it.

I turned back to Jordane who was now in the middle rolling her hips as she flicked her wrist to a beat. She turned and did some weird pivot while slumping her body then straightening up. I had to admit she danced with style, and everyone else agreed because soon it turned into an all out dance fest. No longer were we glaring at each other and turning the other way when someone else did a really good move. We cheered them on.

Another song came on and Elektra nodded her head at me. Her and I were last; so far both schools had been even so it was up to her and I. The atmosphere had lightened up and I wasn't as nervous about getting in there. So naturally a few seconds before I had to step in my heart was thumping hard against my chest. Bella laughed and nudged me towards the center. I sauntered for second and just as the other girl moved off and the music changed to a really fast beat. It was louder and the girls moved around me yelling things I couldn't hear. Before I could move a large group of guys moved onto the stage. I'd seen them before but I couldn't remember where. We all stood and watched as they made their way over to us, breaking into two as they moved to each side. Elektra stood beside me while I didn't know weather to keep going or not.

"Looks like we have some competition. So change of rules, it's all out from here." She then motioned to all the girls and they all nodded and moved to one side, while the guys stayed on the other. The music was turned up to full volume and they all signaled for me to keep going. All eyes were on me and I never was one for center of attention, so I did the only thing I could think of. I spotted the one guy that led the group on stage. He wore loose fitting jeans and a simple beige and white t-shirt with a sideward trucker hat. He had long dyed blonde hair sticking out from under his hat that reached his ear lobes. His skin was dark and his eyes brown. He had a half roguish, half boyish look about him. With standout dimples. A perfect target.

It was now Girls vs. Boys. Let the games begin.

I smiled wickedly and made my way over to my victim, he smirked and allowed me to lead him back into the center. His grip on my hand tightened as I swerved to face him. I caught a look of astonishment on Bella's face as I passed her. I moved in time as I stepped around my new dance partner, his eyes never leaving my body, no not my face, my body. Feeling slightly disgusted I titled his head up with my finger and spun around him while dipping when the beat changed. I rolled back up him, which caused a lot of whistles from the guys and cheers from the girls. I laughed grabbing the guys hand again, moving around in a circle and pushed off him our second time around causing him to stumble backwards back into his group. The girls cheered again while all eyes were on me alone this time.

The music filled my ears and I was ready to go. I danced just like I was in a club blocking out every person around me. The lights blazing down and the crowd cheering me on I felt ecstatic. I sprang back up from the ground and clicked my fingers with a flick to the right while my body moved to the left. I spun around on one foot, my arms out in a circle for balance and stopped suddenly facing the guy's half bent with both arms pointing to the ground and legs slightly apart. I then used my arms as a center point and moved down them making sure the guys caught every one of my swift movements. I moved back up and blew them a kiss before moving back to the girls. Everyone yelled at me encouragingly and Elektra was now in the center dancing away, soon joined by Bella and Jordane. The guys were in there doing their thing; it went on for another twenty minutes. From break dancing to the robot, some dude impersonated John Trevolta and some Saturday Night Fever disco enthusiast. There were bodies moving everywhere all joined into one. The crowd that had gathered grew by the minute.

Bella and I danced in time going over a dance routine we learned a few months ago at Hypnotic. The groups parted for us as we danced, Jordane and Elektra caught on and joined in all knowing the dance moves off by heart. The guys moved around us when we all dipped and turned. We threw one hand in the air, one knee bent and moved forward with our chests moving back and forth in time with our moving arm. We ended with a difficult move, which landed us on our bent knees on the ground. The girls were pulling us to our feet before I could register what the heck I just did. Everything was a blur as I was slapped on the back, hugged, kissed practically thrown around like a rag doll. Voices sounded slurred, music was becoming distant. My head was spinning. Bella's head suddenly popped into my line of vision. I shook my head and grinned back at her.

"That was awesome El!" She cried excitedly. She grabbed me by the arm and hugged me. I laughed.

"I didn't even know I had it in me." I murmured, the concept not quite getting to me.

"You were amazing El! You should have seen that guys face while you were dancing." She said pointing to the guy I had forced to dance with me. "I didn't know you were THAT good! Christ I would've dragged you in sooner!"

"Well let's not think about that right now. I need to go find Josie. Excuse me." I started making my way through the crowd feeling my heart beat faster. I glanced around and spotted an opening leading to the exit. Making my way over I finally threw myself out into the cool breeze. I stumbled into the dark vacant backstage area where I heaved a sigh of relief. The slight breeze was cooling my reacting body off.

I heard voices to my left and they were getting closer. Four figures rounded the corner of a blue tent and stepped into a light. My face reddened when I saw the astonished looks of my friends. Josie ran up to me and threw her arms around my neck.

"Damn girl!" She yelled, muffled by my hair.

I patted her back hesitantly.

Jonny was behind Josie in a few seconds, when she let go of me Jonny took me by the shoulders and stared at me.

"What!" I asked after a few seconds. His arms fell back to his sides. His mouth slightly apart.

Jonny was thrown aside by Owen who looked dumbfounded. "Where the hell did you learn how to dance like that?" He asked.

I rolled my eyes. "Gee I don't know, it couldn't be the night clubs could it?" I stated sarcastically.

Owen scrunched up his face. "I never see you dance at clubs..." he trailed off in thought.

"No, you never see me at clubs."

"Oh…yeah."

"But that was amazing El!"

"Yeah you should really think about doing that more often."

"Where'd you learn it?"

"Have you been taking dance classes?"

"Who were the chicks you were dancing with?"

"Who was that guy?"

"Yeah!"

All these questions were directed at me and I didn't know whom to answer. But a distant voice caught my attention straight away I knew who it was.

I looked at Alec and gave a little reassuring smile. "That guy? I dunno, I've never seen him before."

Bella came bouncing up behind me. "His name is Terrell Jordan, he's goes to a local school. He wants to meet you El" Bella threw an arm around my shoulder.

"He does?" I asked.

"Oh, not such a good pick El."

"No, no he's not mad. He just wants to meet the girl who brushed him off." Bella said waving a hand at Josie's statement.

"Terrell Jordan? The dude that throws those whack parties out at Golden Bay?" Alec said shoving a hand in his pocket while studying Bella.

"Uh, yeah I think so." She replied.

I shook my head. "Look I have to get back to work. Tell Terrell if he wants to see me he can, I'll be around."

As soon as I walked away I began to breathe properly. I didn't know why, but all the questions were giving me a headache. I still couldn't grasp exactly what I had just done, but I had a feeling something is going to happen and I might not like it.

It was only twenty minutes from closing time and I felt exhausted. After my little burst of confidence on stage I was suddenly bombarded by people congratulating me. Mostly teenage guys looking for a bit of 'private dancing'. Some people are pathetic. So I did all I could to avoid everyone. I didn't feel like myself, my mind has been run over too many times today. First the anger I felt towards Alec and Owen, then the flirting back at the kissing booth, my all of a sudden dance expertise (so they say), and now…..I didn't know what to feel. All emotions were running on high and I didn't know what to think.

I'm beginning to feel numb.

Of all people I did not want to see was the traitor Marcus Campese. He came into the staff tent looking frantically for someone. His eyes landed on me sitting alone in a dark corner and a look of relief appeared. He stormed over to me and grabbed my hand making me drop my cup of coffee.

I squealed in surprise as he led me outside the tent while I screamed at him to let go. "For Christs sake Marcus what the fricken' heck do you think you're doing?! Let go!"

"Calm down El! I have someone who wants to meet you." I stopped struggling and let him lead me to where ever it is we were going.

"Where have you been all night anyway? Last time I saw you…you were eating piles of candy floss over by the inflated elephant."

I growled in defense. "I was not eating piles of candy floss you oaf!" Marcus laughed. "I was merely…uh holding it for someone."

"In your mouth? And merely holding it for someone? That doesn't make any sense." Marcus teased. I swung my hand and hit him over the head. "Ow!"

"Behave! I have more where that came from." I hissed in response glaring at the back of his head.

I gave up and ignored his attempts at conversation, just letting him lead me to the other side of the fields.

We arrived at the car park, which was more crowded than a sold out Sum 41 concert. I clung to Marcus's hand as we dove head first into a mass of people heading for their cars. I was pressing up to people and they were slow close. I could smell cigarette smoke, and something I didn't like. The heat was radiation off their body and I felt my head spin. People were starting to leave and all the helpers were just starting on clean up duty. So it was a pretty big crowd.

When we finally found a clearing I let go of Marcus's hand and straightened myself out.

"Never. Do. That. Again." I said breathing heavily.

"Claustrophobic?"

"Try agitated."

"Why?"

"Never mind." I placed a hand on my forehead and relaxed a little. "Can we please go? I don't know if you've realized, but we're supposed to be helping clean up."

"Yeah I know, but this'll only take a sec." Marcus spotted a group of teenagers leaning on the hoods of their cars and pointed to them. "That's them, come on."

I nervously walked behind Marcus as we made our way through a small amount of people. I didn't know what these people wanted, or why they wanted to meet me. Marcus stopped in front of me and I quickly skipped to a halt. I walked around him and my eyes bulged.

There sitting on the hood of a black car were the exact people I danced with. Elektra, Jordane and their girls. Then Terrell and his boys.

I opened my mouth but shut it not knowing what I was going to say. I looked at Marcus who had this triumphant smile on his face, he turned to me.

"Gotta go now El. Phillipa's waiting for me." Marcus waved at me then disappeared into the crowd.

"Traitor!" I mumbled fiercely to myself.

Terrell laughed and got up from off the hood. He walked around me like I was a piece of meat, his eyes flaring, his mouth slightly parted, a small devious smirk. Once again his eyes trained down to my body.

I narrowed my eyes and looked at him in offence. I raised an eyebrow when his eyes travelled back up my body to my eyes.

Jordane rolled her eyes and shook her head. Tell me about it.

"Are you done looking?" I said smartly crossing my arms over my chest.

Terrell laughed, his laugh was deep and pure. "Well I gots' ta check ya out before I invite ya to ma crib."

I looked at him disbelievingly. "Excuse me?"

It was Elektra's turn to laugh. "Hold up 'dere boo that's not what he meant." She moved off the car and stood beside Terrell. "Dis is ma big bro Terrell. I'm Elektra."

"Yeah. I know-wait a minute you're all from the same school?"

Elektra smirked and ignored my question. "Do you know the rest of the gang?" I shook my head. "You won't remember all the names so I'll just introduce ya to ma girl Jordane."

"Hey."

"Yeah hi." I replied looked over at her.

"So what I meant was you should come over to ma crib so we can have us a party dis Friday." Terrell said waiting for me to answer.

"You can invite all ya little friends. But make sure you come too." He winked.

"I'll think about it." I said placing a calm hand on my side.

"You'll think about it?" Terrell laughed. He walked forward and took out a pen. "How about you give me your number so I can call you sometime," I was about to object when he spoke again. "About directions to my house and all." I blushed and nodded.

I gave him my number and left them all standing by their cars. The crowd had gone down quite a lot and I easily slipped my way back in through the gates where I met Marcus and Mr. Gretchen talking.

"Elly! There you are, where have you been?" Mr. Gretchen yelled when he spotted me. I made my way over.

"Uh well-"

"Oh never mind." Mr. Gretchen waved a hand at us. "You two can go, you've done good this evening. Especially you McKenzie, I saw you dancing, you should think about joining the cheerleading squad." Like hell! "But you were still slacking on your job! Now get!"

I thanked Mr. Gretchen and ran to find Josie. She was backstage with Alec, Owen, Jonny, Dawn, Phillipa and Rasmine. Marcus was right behind me. They were all clearing away their instruments and loading them on the back of a truck.

I smiled at Josie and ignored all the other stares. "Well there's my Dancing Queen." My smile disappeared and I glared at Josie.

"Ha. Ha not funny." I said and sat down on a speaker.

"So El what did those guys want?" Marcus asked.

I turned as every pair of eyes landed on me. "What guys?" Josie asked.

"Well I found out that there were only two different schools dancing. Morris and Westland."

"So those guys up their were actually with those chicks that challenged you?"

I nodded at Josie. I hopped off the speaker stood up. "They just wanted to talk to me." I didn't mention the party because I didn't want to make a big fuss about things. "That's all."

"About?" Owen asked.

"That is none of your business." I said while smiling at Owen.

"So where have you been all night El?" Alec asked. I turned to him and felt his gaze penetrating towards me.

I was about to answer when Dawn burst out laughing. Everyone focused their eyes on her and she blushed. "Sorry, I just find this so funny. I mean Elly dancing in front of so many people."

Anger flooded me as I glared at her. Everyone gaped at Dawn. "I mean come on I can tell it's not something you're all use to seeing am I right?"

"Uh well technically you're not." Josie said from behind me for voice raspy like she was about to crack. Am I right in saying that Josie is a little more pissed about that comment than I am? "We go clubbing quite a lot actually."

"Oh, well oops, my bad."

I turned to Josie and she walked up beside me. "What the hell was that?" I asked.

Josie narrowed her eyes at Dawn. "I think little Miss Popularity over there doesn't feel so popular right now." Josie replied.

I laughed. Oh that attention seeking bitch.

"Alec sweetie can we please go. I'm getting tired and my feet hurt."

I turned away in disgust and sat down on the speaker again. Rasmine and Phillipa then started to whine about their feet and hair and what have you. Josie and I rolled our eyes. Something about Josie made me worry. Her eyes looked strained and her posture was stiff. I noticed that Jonny had already left while we were talking and decided to ask Josie about it later.

Owen walked up to me gave me a smile hug. "We're gonna take the girls home now. I'll see ya later ok."

I nodded and watched the tent clear out. Marcus and Phillipa left together and everyone else went with Alec who gave me a reassuring smile as he walked out of the backstage tent.

"How about we go get a hotdog and some candy floss before we head home too?" I asked standing up.

"Have you had any candy floss today?" Josie asked as we walked out the tent and to a food stand that was still up serving the remaining people.

"Not one bite." I lied and looked forward to eating more candy floss.

Josie drove us towards my house her hands were tightened around the steering wheel of her car. Her breathing was really ridged. I was not only worried about her, but my safety also. She was going over the speed limit, passing cars and taking corners at 100 km/ph.

I laughed nervously and looked over at Josie who was staring straight ahead in full concentration.

"Hey Jose. You know I love you and all but I don't wanna die today." I said. Josie seemed to snap out of her trance and glanced at me.

"Are you ok?" I asked letting go of my seat belt. My knuckles were red from holding it so tight.

Josie let out a breath and pulled over to the side of the curb. She dropped her head and let silent tears fall. I gasped and jumped out of my seat unbuckling the seat belt and hugged her.

"Hey what's wrong?" I asked.

Josie was sobbing so badly I could barely make out her words. "Jo-Jonny an-d I bro-ke u-p."

I was beyond shocked. These two had been going out for over a year and now it's over.

"What happened?"

Josie calmed herself down and wiped her smeared make-up. "You know last Thursday when they had the football match against Statford?" I nodded. "Jonny he-" another wave of sobs came over Josie.

"What did he do Jose?"

"He confessed to me earlier today that he nearly hooked up with Ashley White after the game."

Oh the bitch of all bitches.

"Nearly?" I asked. "So he was contemplating it?"

"He said he wanted to. But couldn't."

"Oh."

"He's a bastard! He was going to waste everything we've had just for a one timer! Ashley doesn't stick to one guy! How can he do this to me?" Josie was now angry, her face flushed. She slammed her fist on the steering wheel.

"We had an argument. Things just started getting out of hand." Josie was sobbing hysterically and tears were falling rapidly. "So I told him to get fucked. I was so angry at him I said anything."

"Then what happened?"

"He said he'll talk to me when I've clamed down. But I said don't bother because I don't want to talk to him. Then I said it was over."

"Oh sweetie I'm sure we can work things out with Jonny. Do you want me to talk to him?"

"No. I'll do it." Josie said wiping her eyes. "I didn't mean it El."

"I know."

"Why would he want Ashley White anyway?" Josie choked on another wave of sobs.

"You know Ashley. She's a manipulative bitch." Josie stayed quiet just staring at her hands on her lap.

"Ok how about you stay at my house tonight so your parents don't have to see you like this?"

Josie nodded and moved into the passenger seat while I hopped out of the car and into the drivers seat. I 'safely' drove us home and immediately saw Alec's black mustang in the drive. My heart rate moved up and I was left wondering what he was doing here. Did he finally ditch those barbies?

Josie and I walked towards the stairs but I caught a glimpse of Alec and Owen in the kitchen. I stopped and turned to the kitchen with Josie hesitantly behind me. Owen glanced up and dropped what was in his hand.

"Elly!" He said in alarm getting Alec's attention. He looked up from his magazine and stared at me wide eyed.

"What are you doing here?" He asked looking around nervously. I narrowed my eyes suspiciously.

"I live here Cooper. I thought you knew that?" I teased but stayed firmly put. One hand on my hip. I could hear Josie sniffing behind me out of view from the guys.

"I thought you were staying the night at Josie's?" Owen asked looking at Alec, having some sort of silent conversation between them.

"I said no such thing." I replied my suspicion rising by the second.

My unsaid questions were answer just as Dawn and Rasmine come bouncing in the room from the back yard. Dawn had a huge smile. She had a chocolate bar in one hand while the other cradled her cell phone.

"Phillipa is with Marcus. They're going to the- oh hello Elly."

"Yeah," was my reply to Dawn's greeting. Josie sniggered and slipped out of the room leaving me alone. I turned and saw her walk up the stairs to my room. I then turned and glared more so at Alec and he knew it. So he kept his head down.

So many things were happening that Alec was the least of my worries. Nothing is going my way but today I'm here to make Josie feel better, not myself.

"Oh El this is Rasmine a friend of Dawn's." Owen said smiling at me. I rolled my eyes.

"Hi." I turned to Owen. "When Mom gets back tell her Josie is staying here the night." He nodded.

I don't know why but I too angered at Jonny to even realize that Alec was here with Dawn. That my brother just lied to me about taking the girls home. Well no actually he could have meant 'home' as in our home. But who does that? They know how I feel about her. Shaking my thoughts away I glance once more at a guilty Alec. His eyes met mine n a silent plead of forgiveness. I sighed.

"So uh, we'll just be down here if you need us." Owen said. I rolled my eyes.

"Whatever." I said with a wave of my hand and walked out of the room.

The events of today have been too up and down for my little brain to comprehend. Just as I thought things between Alec and I were getting better, Dawn shows her nasty little face! The game of dodge ball was relaxing. It was a reminder of what Alec and I use to be like. But the moment I saw him with Dawn I knew there was going to be trouble. I am no match for that girl, as heart-breaking as it is to admit. There was still Owen that I had to get around. Things were just too complicated to get into. The highlight of my day. Well that Kissing Booth wasn't so bad. Dancing? Yeah I could live without it. The experience: I'm gonna think twice next time. There was just too much happenings in one day I didn't know what to do and where to start.

I lay on my bed beside a sleeping Josie. I couldn't begin to imagine what she was going through. She loved Jonny so much. And if she was unhappy, then I was unhappy. Jonny is definitely in for a rough time.

I heard Alec's car pulling out of the drive. It was 10:30 pm. He's got a lot of explaining to do in the morning.

You guys have no idea how hard I have been working on this Chapter! So you all have to do m a huge favour and review it. The least reviews I get the less motivation I have for the next chapter. Which by the way is planned out.

So R/R.

Thanks to my reviewers.