Now I'm 17 and a senior in high school. Second half of the first semester rolled in and I drove to Ian's house. He has been my best friend since we were in preschool. People always think he's gay, but he's not. He's a great artist. He paints and draws the greatest pictures. I pulled into his driveway and honked for him. He walked out in his paint smock and his hair looks messy, but still presentable. I said, "Only you can manage to look disheveled and make it seem intentional."

"And only you know that I don't have to try." he replied, getting in the car.

"So, we don't have much longer here. After this year, we are officially out of this town." I proclaimed.

"We'll both be out of this town. What are you going to do after this year?" Ian asked me.

"Well, I could be a retail clerk." I said.

"Now, Elisa, you know you're too good to be a retail clerk. I believe you need to start singing again." Ian told me.

"Why? You know how Theresa is. I'm not trying to expose myself for her to use me for her reasons." I answered.

"That's why you have me. I can get you in the art school that we both dreamed of and you won't have to worry about that evil witch again." Ian said.

I chuckled. When we arrived at school, I found a parking space next to an unfamiliar car. I asked Ian, "Do you know who owns this car?"

"Have no idea." he answered. Then a guy stepped out. My God, he is so handsome!

He looked at me and said, "Excuse me, do you know who can help me with my schedule? I'm new here."

I snapped out of my trance and said, "Yes, I can show you the way."

He smiled and followed me. I looked back at Ian who was giving me a thumbs up. We made it to the office and I said, "In that office, Mrs. Grossberg will be able to help you with your schedule."

He nodded, "Thank you. I'm Lance Williams, by the way."

I reached my hand out to shake his, "Elisa Hathaway."

He took my hand and kissed the back of it. I was surprised, but I didn't let it show. He smiled and replied, "Thank you, Elisa."

"No problem." I retorted. He walked into Mrs. Grossberg's office. Ian walked behind me.

"Well, that is one picture I would've loved to paint." Ian said behind me.

"Oh, give me a break." I told him.