A Bad Mood

Liam was in a good mood today.

His father had just sent him a generous sum for his monthly allowance, and he was anticipating even more next month since his birthday was approaching.

He was definitely in high spirits today.

"Ugh, I really wish public displays of affection weren't allowed at this school," he remarked as Eric and Chloe strolled over to him.

It was Saturday, which meant their regular morning workout session. Eric and Chloe walked hand in hand, both beaming as they approached him.

"What public display of affection? We're just holding hands," Chloe replied with a grin.

"Sure, for now. But once I turn around, he'll be kissing you," Liam shot back.

"Yeah, he's got a point," Eric chimed in, prompting Liam to roll his eyes.

Their friends soon joined the trio. "You'd think after all these years at this school, I'd be used to waking up early for Saturday workouts," Darla said with a yawn.

"It honestly terrifies me to think I have to endure this for another three years," Bia added, leaning against Darla.

"On the bright side, there's a super attractive trainer today," Mel said, giggling.

And indeed, there was a very attractive trainer present.

"Don't tell me you actually think you stand a chance?" Casper teased, his mock surprise eliciting laughter from the entire group.

"I beg your pardon? Have you seen me?" Mel replied, striking a playful pose.

"I'm looking at you," Casper said, deadpan.

"Lead High is coming today, right?" Jess asked, a glint of mischief in his eyes. This was just the first step in his plans.

Lead High was the nearby boarding school, located not too far away. The two schools took turns working out together twice a month, a chance to socialize since they were the only boarding institutions in the state.

"Oh, here they come," someone remarked as they entered. The group observed the arrival of the students who were renowned for their athletic prowess, both boys and girls. Although most of the students at Collins High wouldn't admit it, there was an undeniable feeling of intimidation whenever they faced off against these athletes in competitions.

"At least something positive is happening today," Natty commented, narrowing her eyes as she glanced to her far right. "Ugh, Rex doesn't even notice the girls here. He's only focused on meeting his cousin."

Everyone turned to see where Natty was looking. Rex was waiting for Ben, who was just making his way onto the field. Once they met, Rex draped his arms around Ben's shoulders as they chatted, and Ben erupted in laughter at whatever joke Rex had shared.

Liam had never seen Ben laugh like that before. Sure, he smiled and chuckled occasionally, but this was a different side of him. It was clear he relished Rex's company.

Liam scowled.

On the opposite side of the field, Ben admired Rex for embodying all the best traits of his cousins. He was handsome, athletic, intelligent, and humorous. Rex had a knack for making him laugh, and Ben always eagerly anticipated the Saturdays when Rex would visit his school.

Without a doubt, Rex was Ben's favorite cousin. They had an effortless connection.

"So, tell me, is there anyone new in your life? You seem happier than the last few days I've seen you."

Rex had always hoped for Ben to find a true friend. Being just a year older, he often listened to Ben's tales about his past friendships. Rex was never a fan of the friend group dynamic at their school; he simply couldn't grasp it and believed that anything beyond three was just too many.

Ben grinned. "Well, I have some new friends now. Uh, three of them?"

"Why do you seem uncertain?" Rex inquired.

"I'm confident that Chloe and Liam are my friends, but I'm not entirely sure about Eric since he's Chloe's boyfriend, though we get along well," Ben clarified. Eric was a genuinely nice guy, and they had a good rapport.

"Really? How did you all meet?" Rex was thrilled that Ben had finally found some close companions, especially since he'd be heading off to college next year, making him relieved that Ben wouldn't feel too lonely.

"It's a bit of a long story, but Chloe wanted to be friends, and we hit it off. She's really fantastic and a lot of fun. As for Liam and I…" Ben said, his cheeks turning a shade of pink.

Rex found this quite entertaining. "So, you have a crush on him?"

Ben wore a bashful smile, a clear indication of his feelings for Liam. Ever since they began their conversations, Liam had occupied Ben's thoughts.

"I'm not sure, maybe?" This was the first time Ben was somewhat openly acknowledging his feelings.

"Maybe? That grin of yours says otherwise," came the teasing response.

"Alright, fine," Ben admitted, his cheeks flushing.

"So, who exactly is this Liam?" Rex inquired as he stretched out.

Ben scanned the area until he spotted Liam with his circle of friends. Their eyes met, and he quickly averted his gaze.

"You know the popular group, right?" Rex nodded. "Look to your left, the tall guy with blonde hair."

Rex turned to see who Ben was referring to. "Why are he and that other guy staring at me like that?"

Ben glanced back and noticed Liam and Casper watching them intently. "Stop staring! Now they know we're talking about them."

"But they were giving me weird looks first," Rex replied, puzzled by the attention.

Let's change the subject. Are you finally dating? You've been single forever."

"No one has really caught my eye… yet," Rex said, his focus still lingering on Casper.

"You're bisexual. You have options on both sides, and yet no one has caught your interest?" Ben thought to himself that if Rex weren't his cousin, he might have developed a crush on him long ago.

"Let's see…" Rex finally turned his gaze away from Casper.

After a brief workout, someone approached them. "Hey Ben, you haven't introduced me to your cousin," Jess remarked with a friendly grin.

Ben felt a wave of confusion wash over him. Ever since their encounter at the Food Hall, they hadn't exchanged a word. What was this sudden friendliness all about?

"Hi, I'm Jess, a friend of Ben's," Jess said, extending his hand for a shake.

Rex accepted the handshake. "Ben never mentioned you were friends."

"That's because we're not—"

Ben tried to interject, but Jess cut him off. "Maybe he just forgot. So, are you single?"

Ben's eyebrows shot up in surprise. He hadn't realized Jess was interested in guys. He glanced over at their friends, who were all watching intently, with Casper and Darla frowning.

Rex smirked. "Well, that depends on who's asking."

"I am," Jess replied confidently.

"Then I'm not," Rex responded flatly.

Jess seemed caught off guard by the rejection, speechless for a moment. Yet, he wasn't ready to back down. "I can change that," he said, causing both Rex and Ben to turn their attention to him.

Ben was taken aback that Rex had lied about being in a relationship, but he was even more astonished by Jess' boldness. What was happening? He felt completely lost.

"Good luck with that," Rex replied skeptically.

"Just try me," Jess said, quickly pecking Rex on the cheek before heading back to their group.

As soon as Jess left, Ben couldn't contain himself. "What just happened?" he blurted out.

"You tell me."

"I had no idea Jess was into guys. Does he like you? And what was that kiss about?" Ben fired off in a rush.

"I have no clue, but let him know that if he tries that again, my fist is going to give his face a little peck," Rex said, jogging in place.

The workout had wrapped up, signaling the end of the day for the students at Leads High. As Ben bid farewell to Rex, he promised to introduce his friends and Liam on his next visit.

Across the field, the group exercised in hushed tones. When Jess returned, he couldn't help but boast about Rex wanting to connect through Ben. He relayed that Rex was eager for them to get acquainted and that the peck on Rex's cheek was just his way of showing agreement.

What were the chances they'd uncover the truth? Jess believed they were non-existent. Given Ben's feelings about the group, there was little hope for an open discussion about what had transpired.

Meanwhile, Casper remained silent, while Darla shot glances at him, her eyes filled with disdain directed at Jess.

Liam, however, was indifferent to the unfolding drama. He wasn't a fan of exercising and found himself observing the cousins as they engaged in their activities. Ben appeared at ease around Rex, a sight that stirred something in Liam.

Not that he felt envious, he reassured himself; he just wished Ben could feel that same level of comfort when they were together. He would admit, he wanted Ben to be more relaxed with him than he was with Rex, but it was purely platonic. Just friendly.

Liam was definitely in a bad mood.