Chapter 2 Confidence

The next class was PE, and everyone gathered in the gym. The PE teacher gave some basic instructions and then let everyone do their own activities. Peterson found Fox and invited him to play ball. Originally, Fox just wanted to sit in a corner and study seriously. But Peterson was persistent, and Fox recalled his tragic past life. Hard work had led to a series of injuries. "Exercise has its benefits. Okay, I'll join you," Fox said, joining the game. Football, basketball, and baseball were popular at Liston High. Though a bit rusty, Fox knew how to play basketball. After some running and jumping, he was soon sweating. “Whew, Peterson, I haven’t worked out like this in a while. What do you want to drink? I’ll go get it.” Fox smiled. “Just get me an energy drink.” Peterson waved, content with whatever was available. Fox went to buy drinks. Nearby, the girls were also exercising. Jenny and Rocco were casually moving around. “I’m so thirsty, Jenny. Let’s go get some water,” Rocco fanned herself. “No need. Look over there,” Jenny smiled, pointing at Fox walking back with drinks. “What a good little dog, already fetching water without us asking.” “But he only bought two bottles. I guess I’m out of luck,” Rocco pouted, feeling that Fox wasn’t considerate. “It’s fine. Just make him give you his bottle. Let’s go, I’m dying of thirst,” Jenny said, pulling Rocco towards Fox. Fox wiped his forehead, waved at Peterson in the distance. Jenny and Rocco thought he was waving at them and waved back, thinking they were giving him hope. Then, Fox directly ignored them and handed the water to Peterson. Jenny and Rocco were stunned, the atmosphere suddenly awkward. “He wasn’t buying for us?” Their gestures and expressions were completely wasted. “Fox, what’s the meaning of this?” Rocco said, hands on hips, questioning Fox. Fox and Peterson sat calmly, drinking their water. “What are you talking about?” Fox asked, puzzled. “You were supposed to get water for us!” Rocco stomped her foot, furious. “Why should I get water for you?” Fox asked, as if it were the most natural thing in the world. Peterson was surprised, wondering what had gotten into Fox. Rocco was Jenny’s best friend. Wasn’t Fox trying to win Jenny’s heart? Why was he acting like this? “Forget it, Rocco. He’s probably still mad about earlier.” “Fox, I already explained, it was an accident.” “I was actually happy to see your letter, so it got mixed in with my homework.” “I didn’t mean to, and the teacher overreacted,” Jenny said with a gentle smile. Fox knew Jenny’s tricks too well. Being happy to see the letter didn’t mean she was willing to accept his love. Even if he died, she wouldn’t care. That’s the kind of person she was. “So, will you accept it? Why don’t I read the letter out loud here and now?” “Give me a clear answer,” Fox said, standing up. “Dear Jenny…” Fox began to read theatrically. His rhythmic reading caught everyone’s attention. People wanted him to be a joke, but now Jenny and Rocco were also part of it. “Fox is at it again, he really loves Jenny.” “OMG, if I were Jenny, I’d say yes. But I’m a guy, ha ha.” “Say yes, Jenny, don’t break Fox’s heart!” People started cheering, faces full of mockery. This was Fox’s trick. If they wanted him to be the clown, then they would be the ringmaster and the acrobat. Everyone would join the circus. “Fox, are you crazy?” Rocco stomped her foot, embarrassed. “Fox, exams are coming up. I don’t want to affect my studies.” “So, can you wait a bit for my reply?” Jenny said, flipping her blonde hair. To be honest, it was a very sexy move. But Fox didn’t care anymore. “Okay, I get it. My love isn’t enough.” “I’ll write you a new love letter every day.” “When you come to class, I’ll read it to you with all my heart.” “I hope one day, I’ll touch your heart,” Fox said, raising his water bottle like Gatsby, even winking. Jenny almost broke her composure. She grabbed Rocco and left quickly. “Dude, you’re amazing! You’re our high school’s warrior,” Peterson elbowed Fox. “You’re not really going to read a love letter every day, are you?” he asked, hoping Fox would do it. “Of course not. It’s just a joke. I’d rather spend my time studying,” Fox said casually, finishing his drink and tossing the bottle into the trash. Jenny and Rocco walked away, their expressions changing. “Jenny, are you okay? Fox was too much.” “He’s not cute anymore,” Rocco complained. “He’s just trying to get my attention.” “If I get upset, he wins.”Jenny said, pretending to be calm. “It’s annoying, everyone’s laughing at us.” “It’s fine. This shows he still likes me.” “Let him do what he wants. I’ll stay calm,” Jenny said, though she felt pretty bad, she had to maintain her composure.