Chapter four

Gwen had always been aware of the challenges that lay ahead on her path to weight loss, but the constant bullying at school had become insufferable.

She was determined to make a change, not just for her well-being but also to silence the torment. Before embarking on this significant lifestyle shift, Gwen sought the help from Isabella, who promptly arranged appointments with a reputable nutritionist. This step marked the beginning of Gwen's journey towards a healthier self.

For the subsequent three months, Gwen dedicated herself entirely to her goal. She engaged in rigorous exercise routines for three hours daily, pushing her limits and enduring the physical demands with a steadfast resolve. Her diet underwent a dramatic transformation; she eliminated all traces of processed and unhealthy foods, focusing solely on a nourishing diet of vegetables and grains.

Hydration became a crucial aspect of her regimen, and she was meticulous about drinking ample water throughout the day. Occasionally, she would skip meals, believing that it might expedite her weight loss process. Despite the drastic changes, she remained disciplined, adhering strictly to her new lifestyle without faltering.

Isabella, however, grew increasingly concerned about Gwen's health. Observing Gwen's intense commitment and her occasional meal skipping, Isabella feared that Gwen might be verging on the unhealthy practice of starving herself. She voiced her concerns, urging Gwen to adopt a more balanced approach, but Gwen, fueled by her determination to overcome her challenges, continued unabated.

In an effort to ensure Gwen's safety and well-being, Isabella took on the responsibility of monitoring her health. She accompanied Gwen to regular check-ups, where, fortunately, the doctors confirmed that Gwen was in good health despite the drastic weight loss. This reassurance did little to alleviate Isabella's worries, but it provided a semblance of comfort knowing that Gwen was not harming herself in the process.

After three grueling months, Gwen's efforts bore fruit. She had successfully shed 60 pounds, a testament to her unwavering determination and hard work. The transformation was not just physical; Gwen's confidence soared, and she carried herself with a newfound self-assurance. The bullies at school, once a constant source of misery, could no longer affect her as they once did. Gwen's journey was a challenging one, filled with sacrifices and moments of doubt, but the support of her friend Isabella and her own inner strength propelled her towards achieving her goal.

Isabella, despite her initial reservations, was overjoyed to see Gwen happy and thriving. She realized that Gwen's journey was more than just about losing weight; it was about reclaiming her life and finding joy in her own skin. Together, they celebrated Gwen's achievement, knowing well that the journey had been tough but the outcome was worth every struggle.

"Ryan"Jojo tapped his shoulder

"Uh-huh"he turned to face her

"Mark asked me to call you, he's in the hallway by your locker waiting"Jojo said

"What does he wants ?"Ryan asked

"I don't know "Jojo shrugged

"Tell him to meet me at the basketball court"Ryan stood up and left to wait for Mark there and sure enough Mark walked into the empty court and sees Ryan sitting on the bleachers .

"Hey Ryan"Mark waved smiling

"Cut to the cace"Ryan crossed his legs

"I want to ask for a favor "Mark said

"Talk"Ryan sighed,he was getting impatient Mark's presence irritates him.

"It's about your cousin, Gwen"Mark paused

"Oo...k... What about her"Ryan asked

"I really like her" Mark said and Ryan tried his best not to laugh.

"How's that my business?"He put a hand over his mouth.

"Can you help me tell her"Mark said

"Tell her yourself"Ryan sounded annoyed

"I can't ,wait if she....."

"She'll let you down easy if she doesn't like you , besides she's a sweet heart she can't say no "Ryan cut in feeling frustrated.

"Are you sure?"Mark asked

"Yeah"Ryan noded

"Thanks I owe you one"Mark smiled

"Just don't tell her in public she's shy"Ryan said

"I won't, thanks"

Mark ran out the door and Ryan sighed heavily with a frown on his face . "Uhh, good for nothing loser" Ryan got up and left the basketball court.

After the last bell rang Gwen was gatheri her belongings as everyone left the class. Mark stopped her from leaving and asking her to wait that he wanted to talk to her.

When the class was empty Mark took Gwen's hand avoiding her gaze"There is something I need to tell you"Mark cleared his throat "Gwen I really like you alot"

"Wow am flattered"she blushed "I don't.... know what to..... say... thank you?"Gwen began to stutter

"You don't feel the same?"

Gwen was quite 'What do I say to him? ' She asked herself ."I.. I.. do"

The door flew open and Ryan walked into the class room "Let's go Gwen the driver is here"he said taking a quick look at Mark and he let go of Gwen.

"We'll talk tomorrow "Gwen picked up her back pack"Bye Mark "

"Okay bye"Mark pulled a long face.

Carly was waiting in the with the driver as Ryan and Gwen walked towords the car Carly yells at them to hurry up. Ryan and Gwen got in and the driver drove them home.

Halfway through their journey the got stock in a traffic jam. The cause of the traffic was a burning house and the fire department was trying to put it out. The fire had spread to other houses and fire trucks where all over the place.

" We're gonna be here for a while"the driver told them and they all signed

"Am so tired right now"Ryan said leaning on Gwen's shoulder

"Me too" Carly's stomach growled"And am hungry"

"I have a bar of chocolate in my bag if you want"Gwen said

"No thanks"Carly turned to look at Ryan seeing him leaning on Gwen's shoulder she rolled her eyes and return her gaze to the long line of vehicles.

"You still eat those?"Ryan sighed feeling a little disappointed

"No! Serra gave it to me"Gwen told him

"You don't eat that any more ,you shouldn't have taken it from her"Carly added

"I didn't want to say no she's my friend"

"Dummy"Ryan got off her shoulder and staired outside the window

"What's with the insult?"Carly asked

"Ever since you told Serra you were gonna lose weight she shows up with chocolates and candy she offers to buy you lunch anytime you decide to skip lunch break."

"How do you know all this?"Carly asked and Ryan notice her change tone

"Uhhh... observations"

"How?"Carly asked again

"Am always looking out for her I have a few of her class mates monitor her for me, I also stick around sometimes to make sure she's fine"

"Why exactly?"Carly asked raising an eyebrow

"Stop asking me questions"

"Gwen"

"Yes Carly"

"Don't you think it's creepy Ryan's following you around and have people monitor you?"Carly

"A little "Gwen replied

"Maybe you're jealous you don't have some who cares about you "Ryan snapped

"Dude you are being a creep"

"Am just looking out for her that's all"He folded his arms

"You got Jojo look out for her instead , right Gwen"

"Yeah.. look out for Jojo instead I can take care of myself"Gwen said

The fire was put out and they finally drove home,all three of them were tried and hungry. After taking their bath with they were served lunch after lunch Carly went out with some friends.

After doing her assignments Gwen went to Ryan's room to talk. When she knocked he was on the phone with someone.' probably Jojo' she thought so she waited until he was done then she knocked.

"Come in"

Gwen opened the door seeing it was her he sighed and sat on a single sofa. Gwen walked in and close the door behind her "I'll be quick"she said

"Go on"

"It's Mark ,he says he likes me"

"Why are you telling me?"

"You're a guy you'll understand "

"Come"She walked to where he was seated"take a seat and tell me everything he said"

"He didn't say much "Gwen sat on his bed."he said Gwen I really like you alot"

"That's all "

"Then he asked if I felt the same"

"Do you?"

"A little"

"Did you tell him "

"I would have if you didn't walk in "

"My bad "Ryan scratched his neck he was getting a little uncomfortable.

"It's not your fault"Gwen said "I couldn't even talk properly"she put a hand over her face.

"You can tell him tomorrow "

"What should I say

"Just tell him how you feel "

"Okay , one more thing "

"What?"

Gwen hugged him" I appreciate the fact that you care about me don't mind what I said in the car, I didn't mean it. I think it's very kind of you to look after me "

"You're welcome "Ryan smiled

***** The next day*****

"Gwen"Jojo waved from the distance

'Why is she calling me?'Gwen asked herself closing her locker as Jojo got closer

"You look amazing today"Jojo complimented

"Is there something you want to tell me?"

"Don't be in a hurry "Jojo put a hand on her shoulder and handed her a card ( invitation card ).

"What's this?"Gwen looked confused

"An invitation to a party for every member of the cheerleader club and some cool seniors are going to be there including Carly and Ryan of course so you can tag along ."Jojo explained.

"I didn't sign up to be a cheerleader"Gwen said

"I did for you since you are no longer a fat dummy you can be on of us, thank me later "Jojo replied

"No thank you, I can't be going to parties am not of age"Gwen said

"Don't be a joy kill Serra is going to be there too and she also 15 no big deal "Jojo rolled her eyes

"So the whole school is coming?"Gwen asked

"No silly, she tagging along because she helps me with my assistant nothing much "Jojo chuckled "the party starts by 6:00 PM. Be early "

"Okay, I'll came if Carly is coming"

"Cool, see later "Jojo walked away grinning

She walked into an empty class room where her group were waiting."Good news laddies "Jojo closed the door"she coming to the party "

"Don't you think Carly will get mad , if she finds out what we are planning to do to her cousin"Tonia asked

"I don't care "Jojo said"And no one will know it's us , my plan is fool proof, trust me"Jojo added

"Okay if you say so..."Tonia rolled her eyes

Continue reading in the next chapter...