Chapter 2 The Unexpected Connection

Ella bumped into someone and quickly apologized, only to realize it was Richard.

"I'm sorry," Richard said.

"Okay," she replied, turning to leave.

"Wait, where's your location?" Richard asked.

"A few miles from here. Why?"

"I want my driver to drop you off so you can save your cab fare," Richard offered.

Ella hesitated. "I don't think I can trust you yet. You just joined our school today."

"Fair enough. How about tomorrow?"

"I'll think about it," she said, walking away.

"See you tomorrow," Richard called after her.

*Collins Mansion*

"Good afternoon, Mom," Richard greeted as he stepped inside.

"How was your first day, son?" Mrs. Collins asked.

"It was amazing! Everyone, including the teachers, welcomed me warmly," Richard replied with a grin.

"I'm happy to hear that. Now go freshen up,I made your favorite meal."

Richard beamed. "You're the best, Mom!" he said, running upstairs.

*Spencer Mansion*

Ella walked into the house, following the sweet aroma of baked goods. She found her parents in the kitchen, laughing as they made cupcakes together.

She stood at the doorway, smiling.

"Sweetie, you're home!" Mr. Spencer said, washing his hands before hugging and kissing her forehead.

Mrs. Spencer playfully pouted. "So, you won't greet me first, Ella?"

Ella laughed. "Good evening, Mom."

"Why are you jealous, darling?" Mr. Spencer teased his wife.

"I'm not. I just want my daughter to greet me first," she said, smiling.

"Alright, I'm sorry," he said, pulling her into a loving embrace.

"I love you," he whispered.

"I love you more," Mrs. Spencer replied before they shared a kiss.

"Mum!" Ella groaned, making them laugh.

"Go freshen up, then come eat dinner," Mrs. Spencer said.

"Thanks, Mom." Ella went upstairs.

*Ella's Room,Night*

Lying in bed, Ella reflected on the day.

Why did Richard wink at me? she thought. I hope it's not what I'm thinking... I can't go through that pain again.

*Flashback:*

A year ago, her ex-boyfriend, James, had betrayed her trust. She had gone to his house, expecting a normal visit.

"Baby girl," James greeted, moving closer.

Before she could react, he kissed her forcefully. She struggled, but he was stronger.

"I've been waiting for this," he murmured, tearing her dress.

"Stop it, James!" she cried, tears streaming down her face.

Ignoring her, he pinned her to the wall. But in a desperate move, Ella grabbed a hanger and struck him on the head.

He screamed in pain, and she seized the chance to escape, running out in her torn dress.

*Flashback Ends.*

Ella wiped away a tear. I can't trust any guy ever again.

She changed into her pajamas and fell asleep.

*White High-The Next Morning*

"Good morning, bestie!" Emily greeted, hugging Ella.

"Morning," Ella replied.

As they settled into their seats, Tiana, the class queen bee, made an announcement.

"I'm throwing a party on Friday! Everyone is invited," she declared, sending a wink at Richard.

Eliza and Mia squealed in excitement.

Richard turned to his friend, Rayson. "Who are those girls?"

"Tiana, Eliza, and Mia-they're the TEM squad. They're popular and get whatever they want," Rayson explained.

Richard sighed. "Tiana keeps bothering me. Can I switch seats?"

"If the person agrees," Rayson shrugged.

"Who's your seatmate?"

"Mia," Rayson replied.

"Perfect."

Richard approached Mia. "Hey, can we switch seats? You can sit with Tiana."

"Of course!" Mia agreed instantly.

*****

"Tiana, why did you let Richard switch seats?" Mia asked.

Tiana smirked. "Don't worry. Eliza's party idea is perfect. Richard will have no choice but to notice me."

They laughed in unison.

As Tiana left the class, she bumped into Ella.

"Watch where you're going!" Tiana snapped, slapping her hard.

Ella fell, clutching her cheek.

"I... I'm sorry," she stammered, struggling to stand.

"Sorry won't fix your clumsiness," Tiana sneered, kicking Ella in the stomach.

Ella groaned in pain. "Someone help!" she cried.

Richard and Rayson, hearing the commotion, rushed over.

Richard's eyes widened at the sight of Ella on the floor. Without thinking, he lifted her in his arms.

Tiana's face darkened with rage.

"Why is he carrying her like that?" a girl whispered.

"I wish he'd carry me too," another sighed.

Richard carefully placed Ella in his car.

"Need help?" Rayson asked.

"No, I'll get her home and buy her some medicine," Richard replied.

"Alright, see you tomorrow."

As Richard returned to grab his bag, Tiana was waiting.

"Hey, Richard," she purred, stepping closer.

"What do you want?" he asked coldly.

She hugged him.

"For how long will you keep avoiding me? I love you," she confessed.

Richard sighed. "You're pretty, but I'm not interested."

"Why not? Am I not good enough?"

Richard ignored her, heading to his car.

Waking up, Ella saw Richard arguing with Tiana outside the car. She had had enough.

She stepped out.

Tiana's eyes narrowed. "So, it's you?"

"Yes. Leave Richard alone. He doesn't like you,can't you see that?" Ella said firmly.

Tiana scoffed. "And who do you think he likes?"

Richard placed a hand on Ella's shoulder. "She's right here."

Ella intertwined her fingers with his.

Tiana clenched her fists. "Fine. Can we at least be friends?"

Richard sighed. "Only friends."

Tiana forced a smile as he and Ella got into the car.

But from the look in her eyes, Ella knew,this wasn't over.