Naomi~3

When Tess got home, she went straight to her room, closed the door, and cranked up her music. The events of the day were still buzzing in her mind and It all swirled together in a mess she couldn't untangle. She threw herself onto her bed, staring at the ceiling, her mind racing.

The sound of her mum's boots on the stairs pulled her from her thoughts. Tess groaned . She figured she would be coming to have a go at her for staying out late, but the knock on her door was soft—unusual for her.

"Tess," Anna called gently before pushing the door open. She stepped inside, her face lined with something serious. "Your dad called."

Tess sat up, her stomach twisting. "So? I don't even want to know what he said to you."

Anna sighed and leaned against the doorframe, folding her arms. "He wants to meet up with you and Chelle."

Tess frowned, her jaw tightening. "Well, I don't want to see him."

"I get it, love," Anna said, her voice softer now. "But he seems genuine. I'm not saying you have to go, but maybe think about it? Just to hear him out."

"What's there to hear?" Tess snapped. "An apology he doesn't mean? Excuses about how he's changed? He hasn't cared for years, Mum. Why should I care now?"

Anna exhaled, her expression pinched with sympathy. "I'm not defending him, Tess. But sometimes people surprise you. It's your decision, though. I just wanted you to know."

Tess didn't respond, staring at her hands. After a moment, Anna gave her shoulder a soft squeeze and left the room, closing the door behind her.

A few minutes later, Michelle appeared, bursting into the room with a packet of crisps in hand. She flopped onto the bed next to Tess without a word, stuffing a crisp into her mouth like it was no big deal.

"Did you hear?" Michelle said, crunching loudly. "About dad?"

Tess nodded, picking at a thread on her duvet. "I told her I don't want to see him."

Michelle shrugged, her tone more thoughtful than dismissive. "I mean, I get it. But... maybe we should go. Just to see what he's got to say."

Tess looked at her like she'd grown a second head. "Seriously? Why? He's just gonna let us down again."

"Probably," Michelle admitted, shrugging. "But I just want to talk to him. Look, I'm not saying he deserves anything from us. But don't you kinda want to hear him out? Just to see what he's about? What he wants?"

Tess hesitated, her stomach churning. "I don't know. I don't want him thinking he can just come in and out of our lives whenever he pleases."

Michelle gave her a small, reassuring smile. "It's not about him. It's about you. If you don't go, fine. But if you do... it's not for him. It's for you. So you can say whatever you need to say and move on."

Tess chewed on that thought for a moment, her gaze fixed on the floor. "I'll think about it."

"Good," Michelle said, leaning back and popping another crisp into her mouth. "And I'm going, we can face it together yeah?"

Tess managed a small smile at that. Michelle always made things seem less terrifying, even when they were.

"And," Michelle added with a sly grin, "I'll give him hell if he pisses you off."

------ 

Rain splattered against the car windows as their mum pulled up to the small café tucked away on a quiet corner of town. Tess stared out at the gloomy grey sky, her stomach knotting tighter with each passing second. The cozy glow from the café's windows didn't feel comforting—just glaringly false, like it was mocking her for even being here.

"You two sure about this?" Anna asked, glancing at them through the rearview mirror.

Michelle opened her door first, the rain immediately pattering against her umbrella as she stepped out. "We're fine mum," she said briskly.

Tess lingered in her seat, reluctant.

Michelle leaned back down "Come on Tess, my hairs getting soaked!" she said dramatically "It's just tea!"

Tess swallowed hard, finally sliding out of the car. She stuck close to Michelle's side as they walked toward the café, the rain drumming against the umbrella.

Inside, the air was warm and smelled faintly of coffee and cinnamon. Tess noticed him immediately, seated at a small table by the window. Her dad. He looked different somehow—older, maybe—but there was still something familiar about the way he held himself.

Michelle nudged Tess gently. "You ready?" she asked under her breath.

"Not really," Tess muttered, her voice barely audible.

Without waiting, Michelle looped her arm through Tess's and led her toward the table. Tess clung to her sister like a toddler, feeling uncharacteristically small. Usually, she prided herself on being more mature than her age, but in this moment, all she wanted was to disappear behind Michelle and let her handle everything.

Michelle, of course, walked up with her usual confidence, her head high and her movements sure. As they reached the table, she let go of Tess's arm to extend a polite but guarded smile toward their dad. "Hi," she said.

He stood up, looking almost sheepish. "Michelle. Tess." His gaze lingered on Tess, but she couldn't quite meet it.

Tess hesitated for a moment before finally sinking into the chair next to Michelle, still sticking as close to her sister as she could.

Their dad cleared his throat, fiddling with the edge of the menu. "I... I'm really glad you both came. I wasn't sure if you would."

"We almost didn't," Michelle replied matter-of-factly, shooting Tess a quick glance. "But we're here now."

The silence stretched for a few unbearable seconds before their dad spoke again. "How... how are you both? How's school? Uni?"

Michelle was the first to answer, her voice even. "Busy. I'm in first year at uni now."

He nodded quickly, his expression brightening slightly. "That's great!"

He turned his attention to Tess, his smile faltering as he spoke. "And you? How's school?"

Tess shrugged. "It's fine."

Tess stared down at the table as the awkward conversation dragged on. Finally, she couldn't take it anymore. "So, what about you?" she asked, her voice sharp. "How's your new family?"

Michelle stiffened slightly beside her, but their dad didn't flinch. Instead, he nodded slowly, like he'd been expecting the question. "I remarried a few years ago," he said carefully. "Her name's Louise. She has two kids—Jamie and Holly. They're eleven and eight now."

Tess couldn't help the scoff that escaped her mouth.

"Look I'm sorry I didn't tell you girls-"

 "Do they call you Dad?"

His face fell, and he looked down at the table. "Sometimes...But that doesn't mean I've forgotten about you two."

"Could've fooled me," Tess muttered, her voice dripping with bitterness.

"Tess," Michelle said quietly, a warning in her tone.

Their dad held up a hand, stopping her. "No, it's okay," he said. "I deserve that too." He let out a long breath before continuing. "I know I wasn't there. After everything... I just didn't know how to handle anything. I was a mess. I tried to reach out at first, but when I didn't hear back, I—" He paused, shaking his head. "I gave up. And that was wrong. I see that now."

"Five years," Tess said coldly, her arms still crossed. "You gave up for five years."

"I know," he said, his voice heavy with regret. "And I can't take that time back. I can't undo the damage I've caused. But I want you to know I've always loved you kids. I always thought about you"

Well Tess knew that was a fat lie. 

Michelle sat back in her chair, her expression thoughtful. "Why now?" she asked. "Why after all this time?"

"Well we moved back in the area and..." He hesitated, rubbing the back of his neck. "Because I realised what I'd lost. I've missed so much—birthdays, holidays, milestones. And I don't want to miss any more. I know I can't make up for the past, but I want to be part of your lives again. If you'll let me."

Tess stared at him, her emotions swirling too fast to pin down. Anger, hurt, skepticism—all of it mixed with a tiny flicker of something she didn't want to admit. Hope.

Michelle was the first to speak, her tone measured. "We'll see. But don't expect us to just forget everything."

"I will," he promised, his voice firm. "Thank you. Both of you."

Tess didn't say anything, her eyes fixed on the rain streaking down the window. She wasn't ready to forgive, not yet. But maybe—just maybe—she could give him a chance. If only for Michelle's sake.

----- 

Theo showed up at Tess's door a little past six, looking effortless in a black T-shirt, dark jeans, and a jacket casually slung over his shoulders. He smiled as the door clicked shut behind him.

"Nice place," he said, stepping inside as Tess closed the door behind him. "Your mum home?"

"No, she's out," Tess replied, brushing past him toward the stairs. "Come on."

Her room was a mess of organized chaos—posters plastered the walls, fairy lights looped haphazardly, clothes draped over the chair in the corner, and her desk buried under notebooks, tea cups, and makeup.

Theo let out a low whistle, hands in his pockets, eyes roaming. "Wow. Very... you."

Tess raised an eyebrow, smirking. "What's that supposed to mean?"

"It needs a bit of a tidy," he teased, leaning against the doorframe with a casual ease that somehow made it feel like a challenge.

"Not everyone has a cleaner come in every week," she shot back, ignoring him as she rifled through her wardrobe.

Theo drifted further into the room, fingering the spines of her CDs, picking one up, spinning it in his hands. "Need help picking?"

"Sure, because I trust your fashion sense," Tess said sarcastically, holding up a black top to the mirror.

Theo's grin flickered. "Hey, I've got taste," he said smoothly. His gaze lingered on her reflection. "You should wear that. It's...Tight.

Tess snorted, throwing the top onto her bed. "Subtle. Thanks."

As she tried on another outfit, she watched him in the mirror. "Your friends coming tonight?"

"No," Theo said, leaning against her desk.

"Thank God," Tess breathed.

His grin shifted, a little sharper now. "Oh? What's that supposed to mean?"

"Nothing. Just... they're not exactly my type of people," Tess replied, shrugging as she pulled a jacket over her dress.

He crossed his arms, tilting his head. "Right. So that's why you had to be so rude?"

Tess blinked, caught off guard. "Rude? I wasn't rude. They were the ones acting like pricks."

"They were just messing around," Theo said defensively. "You didn't even try to get along with them. You were pretty standoffish, Tess."

"Why should I?" Tess shot back. "They were talking about me like I wasn't even there, laughing at everything I said. It's not like they tried to get along with me, so why should I?"

Theo's jaw tightened slightly, but his tone softened, almost persuasive. "Or maybe you just don't like being challenged. Don't let it make you bitter."

Tess let out a short laugh, shaking her head. "You sound like a therapist now."

"And you sound like someone who needs one," he countered smoothly, letting his gaze linger long enough to make her squirm.

"Look," she said, her voice softening slightly, "I'm not going to pretend to like them if they're being dicks. But let's just drop it, okay? I don't want to fight."

Theo sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Fine. Let's go."

The car ride was quiet at first, the low hum of music from Theo's speakers filling the silence. Tess stared out the window, her arms crossed, while Theo focused on the road. Eventually, he lent closer, breaking the silence.

"You look good, by the way," he said, his tone less irritated than before.

Tess glanced at him, her lips twitching into a small smile. "Thanks." Although she was smiling she didn't appreciate the gesture.

When they arrived at the party, the scene was already in full swing. It was buzzing with people—a small number actually cared about the election but the rest were just looking for an excuse to drink and socialise.

Theo parked the car and turned to her. "Ready?"

Tess nodded, opening the door. The cool night air hit her as she stepped out.

As they walked up to the party together, Tess couldn't help but feel a flicker of unease. She wasn't sure if it was the party, Theo, or the lingering tension from their argument. She glanced at him, uncertainty flickering across her features, and he smiled that self-assured, infuriating grin that made it impossible to tell what he really meant.

Either way, she pushed it aside and stepped through the door, the thrum of music and chatter immediately swallowing her up.

-------

The party was already loud and chaotic by the time Katie sauntered over to Tess and Theo, heels clicking like a warning shot. Her sharp eyes immediately zeroed in on Theo, a smirk tugging at her lips.

"Well, look who it is," Katie said, scanning him from head to toe with barely concealed disdain. "Didn't know you'd be bringing... this guy."

Theo raised an eyebrow, lips curling into a small, sarcastic smile. "Nice to meet you too," he said dryly. "You must be Katie."

Katie didn't skip a beat. "How'd you guess?"

Theo smirked, effortless, like he already knew how this would play out. "Tess mentioned you were... outspoken."

Katie's grin sharpened. "Yeah, and I don't take bullshit from losers like you. Unlike my friend here."

"Katie," Tess snapped, cheeks burning.

"What?" Katie said innocently. "I'm just saying."

Theo's jaw tightened, and Tess quickly grabbed his arm. "Let's go." She turned back around and hissed,"Katie, seriously, knock it off."

As they walked away, Theo muttered under his breath, loud enough for Tess to hear. "What's her problem? She's a real piece of work"

Tess stopped in her tracks, turning to him sharply. "She's just overprotective."

Theo didn't respond, instead steering her towards the bar. Her head was already buzzing with tension when she noticed Emily and Naomi nearby, their conversation stiff and awkward, though they were trying to hide it.

"What's up with them?" she said to herself, tilting her head

Theo followed her gaze and shrugged. "Dunno. Politics?"

Tess ignored him and walked over to the pair, offering a tentative smile. "Hey, you two."

Naomi nodded in acknowledgment, and Emily gave a small, polite smile, though neither seemed particularly comfortable.

"Didn't know you were coming to this," Tess said casually, trying to ease the awkwardness.

"Figured why not," Emily replied, her tone guarded.

Tess studied them both for a moment. Something felt... off. There was a strange tension in the air between them, but Tess didn't pry. Instead, she shifted the topic.

"You two know Theo?" she asked, gesturing behind her.

Emily shook her head bluntly, but Naomi's eyes flicked to him briefly. "Not really."

Theo stepped up then, handing Tess a drink and nodding at the girls. "Hey."

Emily raised an eyebrow with a small scowl on her face. "Hey."

"You two related or something?" Theo asked, pointing between Emily and Katie, who was across the room.

Emily's polite smile dropped slightly. "We're twins."

Theo laughed, clearly trying to lighten the mood but failing. "Right. Explains the attitude."

Naomi rolled her eyes. Tess shot Theo a sharp glance, frustration simmering.

"Why don't you go get another drink?" Tess suggested, teeth gritted.

Theo frowned but wandered off without another word. Tess turned back to Naomi and Emily, her cheeks flushed.

"Sorry about him," she mumbled.

Naomi shrugged. "Don't worry about me, I'm more worried for you."

Before Tess could respond, she caught sight of Cook across the room. Their eyes met briefly, and there was an unspoken exchange—something Tess couldn't quite place but felt deeply. Cook gave her a glare before disappearing into the crowd.

The night dragged on, and Theo only became more frustrating. He drank more, his jokes turning sharper, meaner, and far less funny. When they finally sat down at a small table near the side door, Tess nursed her drink, trying to ignore the way Theo kept leaning closer, his arm brushing against hers, his voice low in her ear.

"C'mon, don't look so bloody serious," he teased, pressing his lips clumsily against her cheek before aiming for her mouth. Tess turned her head, catching him with just the corner.

"Not now, Theo," she muttered, shifting back.

But he didn't get the hint, fingers trailing along her arm like he was trying to reel her back in. "What? I'm just having a laugh. Don't be like that."

Her stomach twisted. She hated how he said it — like it was her fault for not going along. She was about to tell him off when the side door swung open. Cook stepped out, cutting straight across in front of their table. The timing couldn't have been worse—Theo still whispering something in her ear, fingers tapping expectantly against her hip.

He clocked Theo's hand still resting too close, too insistently, on her thigh. His jaw flexed, but he didn't stop walking. Tess, though, caught the stiff set of his jaw, the faint curl at the corner of his mouth like he'd just bitten back a comment. She felt heat crawl up her neck before she even realised why.

"Hey, Cook, was it?" Theo suddenly called after him, leaning back in his chair like he owned the space.

"Great." Tess muttered.

Cook paused. Took a deep breath before turning. "Yeah."

Theo grinned, too smug, too loud. "Think we got off on the wrong foot last time, mate. Don't think either of us were exactly in our best form, eh? No hard feelings man."

Cook didn't smile. His gaze slid from Theo to Tess, then back again. "Funny way of showing it."

Theo chuckled, but it was hollow. He squeezed Tess's thigh again, this time more deliberately. She shrugged it off instantly, like her body made the decision before her brain did — and Cook caught it. His eyebrows lifted just enough to register it.

"You right, mate?" Cook asked, voice casual but pointed.

Theo's grin faltered for half a beat. "Course I am. Just saying, no point hanging onto old shit."

"Sure," Cook said flatly, eyes lingering on Tess before he turned and walked off into the crowd.

"What a dick." Theo watched him go, then snorted. "Hes got issues, you can tell. Bit icy, wasn't he? Lighten up people."

Tess stood, avoiding his eyes. "I'm gonna get a drink."

"Touched a nerve." Tess heard him mumble as she walked away. She didn't have the energy to say anything though. 

She stepped outside for air, only to find Freddie leaning against the wall, smoke curling from the cigarette in his hand. The night was quieter out here, muffled bass from the party vibrating faintly through the brick.

"Hey," he said, his voice low and calm.

Hey." Tess sank onto the step beside him, tucking her arms around her knees.

"You alright?" Freddie asked, studying her carefully.

"Fine." The word fell flat, brittle.

Freddie let out a dry scoff. "Is it Cook?"

"For once, I wish it was." She gave a humourless laugh, then sighed. "It's Theo. He's just... a lot tonight. I don't know what's up with him."

Freddie frowned. "Sounds like he's not worth the hassle."

"I thought he was but maybe he just seemed like an escape and now all of a sudden, he's this... person I don't even recognise. It's like he flipped a switch, and now everything I do annoys him." Tess admitted, resting her head in her hands.

Freddie looked at her, a sad understanding on his face but their moment was interrupted when Theo stumbled out, clearly drunker than before. His gaze zeroed in on Tess, and his expression darkened.

"There you are," he slurred, staggering closer. "What—you hiding out here with this guy now?"

Tess stood quickly, her pulse spiking. "I wasn't hiding. I just needed a minute."

Theo's eyes cut to Freddie, narrowing. "Bet he loved that, didn't he? Got a thing for her, mate?"

"Shut up, Theo," Tess snapped.

"Why?" Theo barked a laugh, ugly and loud. "You don't give a shit what I think anyway. Too busy acting like you're better than me."

Freddie stepped between them, calm but firm, his voice dropping low. "Hey back off mate."

Theo smirked, swaying. "Oh, what—big hero, yeah? She'll chew you up just the same, mate."

Freddie didn't rise to it. He just held Theo's gaze until the silence stretched, heavy and uncomfortable. Finally, Theo shook his head, scoffing.

"You know what? You're a fucking headache, Tess. Maybe I'll find someone who's actually fun." He turned and staggered back inside, slamming the door behind him.

Tess stayed rooted, her chest tight with fury and humiliation

Freddie lingered a moment, watching the door, then calmly crouched to stub his cigarette out on the step. "Prick," 

--------

The night had been building toward disaster, and Tess knew it, but she couldn't stop herself from spiralling further into the chaos. By the time she saw Theo at the bar laughing with another girl, her patience had worn thin. The sight of him, so unbothered, sent a wave of anger crashing over her. She marched over, her heart pounding in her chest.

"Seriously?" she snapped, her voice cutting through the noise of the party.

Theo turned, glassy-eyed and smirking, his arm still hovering far too close to the girl. "What?" he slurred. "We're just talking. Relax."

"Relax?" Tess shot back. "Your hand was about one inch away from not just talking."

The girl shifted awkwardly, but Theo only laughed and drained the rest of his drink. "Christ, Tess. You really can't help yourself, can you? Always looking for a fight. What is your problem?"

"You," Tess hissed, her hands clenched into fists. "You're the problem. You've been acting like an absolute dick all night."

Theo scoffed, turning back to the girl beside him. "See what I mean?" he said loudly enough for Tess to hear. "Drama, drama, drama."

"Don't you dare," Tess said, her voice shaking but loud enough to catch the attention of a few nearby partygoers. "You've been rude to my friends, making snide comments about everyone, and now you're just... what? Flirting with some random girl like I'm not even here?"

Theo finally turned to face her fully, his smug grin replaced by something colder. "Oh, come on, Tess. Don't act like you weren't exactly to the same to my mates. And you've been cold since we got here. Maybe if you weren't such a stuck-up bitch all the time I wouldn't feel like I have to entertain myself."

Her stomach dropped, but the anger burned hotter. "Are you kidding me? Yesterday your friends were the ones being assholes, and you didn't say a word. You just let it happen. Do you even care how uncomfortable they made me? But if you think thats more entertaining than fine, go right ahead."

"Uncomfortable?" he repeated mockingly. "They were trying to be friendly. You're the one who couldn't bother to make an effort. Sorry if your royal highness can't keep up. God your exhausting."

The words stung more than she wanted to admit, but she pressed on, her voice rising. "I'm exhausting? You've been so possessive lately, Theo. You're always nagging me about where I am, who I'm with, like I owe you something. And tonight, you've been acting like you don't even know me unless it's for a shag or something!"

"Maybe I don't," Theo shot back, his voice dripping with venom. "Maybe I thought you were fun, but you're just another uptight, spoiled princess who can't handle a real guy."

Tess's eyes widened "Me? Spoiled? Are you fucking kidding me? And what do you mean a real guy, your not coming off too good anymore yourself."

Theo leaned in slightly, his smirk returning, sharper this time. "Oh, I bet I'm a thousand times better than that guy." He tilted his head toward Cook

"What do you mean?" Tess asked, her voice icy.

"It means you're too hung up on him to care about me," Theo spat. "But you don't have the guts to admit it, do you? Because underneath all this attitude, you're just scared. Scared and broken."

The words landed like a punch. Her throat closed, her vision blurred, and before she could even think of a comeback, the tears were already threatening. She shoved past him, the crowd swallowing her up as she pushed her way out.

The rest of the night was a blur. Tess grabbed whatever drink was handed to her, the burn of alcohol a welcome distraction from the sting of Theo's words. She stumbled through the party, searching for her friends, but it was like the walls were caving in. The thumping bass felt like it was pounding inside her skull, and the flashing lights made everything spin.

"Katie? Katie!" Tess called out, her voice breaking as she turned in circles, trying to make sense of the chaos around her.

But there was no answer, no familiar face in the sea of strangers. Her head spun faster. She needed to get out. Tess bolted for the doors but outside wasn't much better, the cold air hitting her painfully and before she could even think about getting out of there her knees buckled. She sank to the floor, her vision swimming as the world tilted one last time.

The chaos of the night faded to black.

COOK

Cook stumbled out of the party, the noise still rattling in his skull, booze swirling thick in his bloodstream. He wasn't looking for anyone, not really—but then he saw her.

Tess.

She was slumped on the pavement, half-hidden by the glow of a lamppost, her face pale, body stiff. His chest tightened, and for a split second his gut told him to look away, pretend he hadn't seen her. But he couldn't.

"Jesus Christ," he muttered under his breath, shoving his hands deep into his jacket pockets as he walked over.

He crouched down, taking her in—smeared makeup, hair knotted, breathing shallow and uneven. A mess.

The street was empty. No Katie. No Naomi. No Freddie. Just Tess. Alone.

Cook glanced around again, indecisive. She wasn't his responsibility. She'd never been his responsibility. But the thought of Theo—or any other creep—finding her like this made something burn low in his chest. That prick didn't deserve to be anywhere near her. Not like this.

He swore quietly, sliding his arms beneath her and lifting her.

"Shit," he hissed, adjusting her weight against his chest. She was lighter than he expected, her head lolling into the crook of his shoulder.

He hated Theo. Hated the smug way he looked at her, like she was nothing but a shiny thing to keep in his pocket. But if he was honest, Cook hated himself more—for caring this much. Tess was never supposed to be his problem. She'd made that clear enough a long time ago. And yet here he was, hauling her through the streets.

"This is what you do, Cook," he muttered, his trainers scraping against the pavement. "Let everyone else shit on ya."

Tess stirred faintly, her breath warm and uneven against his neck. The weight of her pressed into him, heavier than it should've been, like he was carrying more than just her.

Finally, her street came into view. Cook hitched her higher in his arms, jaw tight.

"Almost there, princess," he said softly—though he wasn't sure if the words were for her or for himself.

--------

Everything came back in flashes—her head pounding, her stomach churning, her body jerking, as if someone was dragging her through a tunnel. Panic surged when she realised she wasn't alone, not even sure where she was, or who was carrying her.

"Put me down!" she slurred, her voice hoarse, panicked, fighting to break free. "You creep get off me!"

The person holding her stopped, setting her down with a thud that nearly made her knees buckle. Her vision swam as she tried to stand.

"Tess, calm down," came a voice, familiar but distant. "It's me, Cook."

Her breath caught. Her eyes widened as they finally sharpened enough to make out his face. Cook. Of course. Just her fucking luck.

She scoffed bitterly, her voice shaking as she tried to get her bearings. "I bet you're loving this," she snapped, tears threatening to spill. "I'm a fucking disaster, right?" Her words felt like daggers.

Cook didn't soften. His expression didn't shift, though there was something in his eyes that she couldn't quite place. "I'm not, actually."

Tess laughed—a hollow, broken sound. Her knees gave way, and she leaned against the wall for support. "Why the hell are you even helping me?" she muttered, her voice unraveling with everything she'd been bottling up. "You don't care. You should've left me there. And Theo... Theo just—" but instead of words, she puked onto the grass but she didn't care.

She wiped her eyes, smearing mascara across her cheek. "I can walk," she said, though her legs barely held her weight.

"Sure you can," Cook replied, crossing his arms, the cold sarcasm biting in his tone.

Tess pushed off the wall, forcing her legs to move, but it was no use. She stumbled, and before she could stop herself, she was retching into the gutter again. The sick feeling in her stomach surged again, and she felt herself go weak.

Cook didn't say anything at first. He just sighed and bent down, scooping her up again despite her weak protests.

"God, Tess," he muttered under his breath, his grip firm as he carried her toward her house.

COOK

Cook carried her the rest of the way, muttering curses under his breath at how bloody stubborn she was—even half-conscious she'd fought him the whole walk. His arms ached by the time they reached her front door. He shifted her weight against his chest and jabbed the doorbell with his free hand.

The door opened after a few beats. A girl stood there, arms crossed, eyes sharp—looked a lot like Tess, only louder somehow.

"Who the fuck are you, and why is my sister unconscious, you twat?" she snapped.

Cook arched a brow, fighting the urge to bite back. "Nice to meet you too, love. I'm Cook. Your sister had a bit too much to drink. Found her like this, thought I'd bring her home."

The girl's eyes flicked to Tess, slumped against him. "Ohh, so you're Cook." Her tone made it sound like she'd just stepped in dog shit.

"Yeah, that's me," he said, shouldering past into the hall like he owned the place. "Where's her room?"

She trailed after him, still sizing him up. "You're lucky. If Mum was home, she wouldn't care if you saved her or not. She'd have booted you into next week just for being near Tess in this state."

Cook smirked, carrying Tess up the stairs. "Good thing she's not home, then."

Her room looked exactly how he pictured it—messy, loud, a bit chaotic. Clothes tossed about, posters on the walls, desk buried under makeup and half-finished drinks. It felt like her.

He set Tess down gently on the bed. She stirred, mumbling something he couldn't catch. Cook reached to pull a blanket over her, but her sister swooped in and slapped his hand away.

"I can do that," she snapped. She hovered, checking Tess's face. "You sure she's okay?"

Cook straightened, jaw tight. "She'll be alright. She's tougher than she looks."

The girl hesitated, then muttered, "Well... thanks, Cook." She shut the door behind him with a sharp click, like she couldn't get rid of him fast enough.

He headed downstairs, out the door. The night air hit him cool and sharp, sobering. What the fuck was he doing?

---------

Tess woke with a groan, her head pounding in rhythm with her heartbeat. The sunlight streaming through the curtains made her wince, her entire body protesting as she shifted in bed. Her mouth was dry, her stomach uneasy, and the faint taste of vodka lingered on her tongue. She barely remembered anything from the night before.

She forced herself to sit up, clutching her temples.

How did I even get home? 

Her memory felt like a jigsaw puzzle with half the pieces missing. Stumbling to the bathroom, she splashed cold water on her face, avoiding her reflection in the mirror. She felt like shit and probably looked about the same.

Dragging herself downstairs, she found Michelle at the kitchen table, her laptop open and her face scrunched in concentration. A half-empty mug of coffee sat beside her.

Michelle didn't look up as Tess collapsed into a chair. "Morning, sunshine," she said dryly. "How's the head?"

"Like I went ten rounds with a brick wall," Tess mumbled, wincing as she massaged her temples. "How the hell did I even get back here?"

Michelle said casually, typing something as she spoke, "Well I finally met your friend last night."

Tess frowned, squinting at her. "What d'you mean?"

Michelle's eyes flicked up, a smirk playing on her lips. "Cook."

Tess froze. "What?"

Michelle rolled her eyes. "Cook. He brought you home last night. Ringing any bells?"

Tess frowned, her heart sinking as fragmented memories started clawing their way to the surface. "No way," she said, shaking her head. "This is Cook we're talking about. He wouldn't—he's not—"

Michelle arched her brow. "Oh, it was definitely him. He carried your drunk ass through the door, put you to bed. Even tried to tuck you in. Real sweet about it too." She paused for dramatic effect. "Which seemed odd, considering all the shit you've told me about him."

Tess blinked, her brain struggling to process. "You're messing with me."

"I'm really not." Michelle sipped her coffee, looking far too smug.

Tess's stomach flipped as fragments of the night began to slot into place.

The fight with Theo. His sneering face, the venom in his words as he belittled her in front of everyone. She remembered running away, angry tears blurring her vision and just having any drink she could find. Her mind replayed the moment she'd woken up in Cook's arms, the way she'd lashed out at him, and his uncharacteristically calm response.

"Oh, fuck," Tess muttered, rubbing her temples as it all came flooding in. She remembered vomiting in the gutter, Cook scooping her up again despite her protests, the look on his face when she'd broken down about Theo. It was all so painfully clear now.

Tess's cheeks flushed, and she groaned, burying her face in her hands. "Oh my god," she muttered. "I'm such an idiot."

Michelle raised an eyebrow, leaning back in her chair. "Why? Because you got plastered on a Thursday night or because Cook had to save your ass?"

"Both," Tess groaned. Her eyes darted to the clock on the wall, and her heart sank. "Shit. It's nine-forty. I'm late."

Michelle gave her an incredulous look. "Since when do you care about being late?"

"I need to go," Tess said, already stumbling to her feet. "It's election day, Naom's needs me"

Michelle's voice followed her as she left. "Tell Cook I said thanks for saving your sorry arse!"

Tess groaned, both from the headache and the thought of facing the day ahead. Brilliant. Just bloody brilliant.

-------

It didn't add up. Cook wasn't supposed to be sweet. He wasn't supposed to care. And yet, he had- at least enough to bring her home. The realisation sat uneasily in her chest as she walked up to school, a knot of confusion and something else she didn't want to name.

Tess barely made it through the school gates as the bell rang for morning break, her hood pulled over her head in a feeble attempt to block out the world. Her headache still throbbed, and every step felt heavier than the last. She spotted Naomi leaning against the lockers,

Naomi raised an eyebrow as Tess approached. "There she is. Didn't think you'd show up after last night."

Tess laughed "Yeah yeah."

"I left before I could say goodbye. Were you alright?"

Tess hesitated, rubbing the back of her neck. "I was fine."

Naomi wasn't convinced "You know I can tell when your lying to me Tess." 

Tess hesitated, "It's fucking embarrassing but Cook found me passed out and took me home...."

Naomi's expression shifted into one of shock, bewilderment, and, ultimately, amusement. "Cook? Cook of all people took you home? What, did the apocalypse start and no one tell me?"

Tess groaned, burying her face in her hands. "I don't get it either. He wasn't even—he was actually... nice."

"Cook? Nice? Are we talking about the same guy?" Naomi grinned, clearly enjoying this.

Tess let out a laugh "Unfortunately."

"Anyways, how you feeling about today?" Tess asked, pulling herself back to the present.

Naomi shrugged "I'm probably going to lose to Cook. Not really worried about Crispin, though." She made a face. "No one's voting for that stuck-up prat."

Before Tess could reply, she noticed Emily walking down the corridor toward them. Naomi's expression shifted instantly, her jaw tightening, and she muttered something about needing to go before slipping off in the opposite direction.

Tess frowned, confused. "What's going on there?" she asked as Emily reached her.

Emily sighed, glancing down the hallway. "Look, you can't tell anyone,  especially Katie, alright?"

Tess raised an eyebrow. "ok?"

Emily hesitated, lowering her voice. "Me and Naomi hung out earlier this week. Went to the lake, just us. And... well, we—you know—"

Tess's eyes widened, her mouth falling open slightly. "Oh. Oh."

"Yeah." Emily tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, her cheeks pink. "And then, after, she just tried to run off on me again."

Tess folded her arms, frowning. "That sounds very Naomi."

Emily shrugged, a flicker of frustration crossing her face. "I know. But it's... different. She's scared or something. I just wish she'd stop running."

Tess gave her a small, encouraging smile. "She's probably scared because she likes you, Em. Give her time."

-----

At lunch Tess flopped onto the couch in the common room, her head still pounding from the night before. The chatter of students echoed around her, most of them speculating about the election and whether Cook or Naomi would win.

Katie burst into the room, her leopard-print handbag swinging by her side. Her face was a mix of concern and irritation as she marched straight over to Tess.

"Babes, where've you been all day? I've been calling to check on you!"

Tess groaned, rubbing her temples. "Didn't hear my phone. Sorry."

Katie plopped down beside her, crossing her legs with exaggerated flair. "I was worried. And, look, I'm sorry I was rude about Theo last night, but I don't like him, alright?"

Tess let out a dry laugh. "Well, you don't have to worry about him anymore." She paused, looking over at Katie. "We had a fight. Big one. He called me a spoiled, rude bitch. Think it's done."

Katie's face shifted through several emotions. "What? Are you serious? What a knob. I knew it, babes you should've listened to me!."

Tess rolled her eyes, smirking faintly. "Oh, look who's talking now. I warn you about Danny all the time, take your own advice."

Katie sighed, her expression softening into something sadder. "Yeah, well... that's over too."

Tess blinked, taken aback. "Wait. You broke up with Danny?"

Katie nodded, her lips pressed into a thin line. "This morning. That boring dick suck cheated on me" She hesitated, avoiding Tess's gaze. "With Melina fucking Hart"

Tess raised an eyebrow but didn't look surprised. "Honestly? Not shocked. I've never liked him. You deserve better Katie."

Katie leaned into Tess, bumping her shoulder. "Thanks," she muttered. "But I'm over it, he's not worth it.."

"Finally you're realising it." Tess replied with a wry grin.

Katie just shot her a look. "So, what happened with Theo? Tell me everything."

Tess exhaled, fiddling with the cap of her water bottle. "I told you, he called me spoiled and rude. Said some pretty nasty stuff. I said some things too, but... I think he meant it."

Katie's jaw clenched, her anger bubbling back to the surface. "Honestly, good riddance."

Tess nodded, though a part of her still stung from the argument. 

The room was buzzing with anticipation as the Headmistress and Doug entered the common room seats. The low hum of chatter filled the space, peppered with laughter and the occasional chant of "Cook! Cook!"

"Everyone settle down!" The headmistress hissed

candidates stood behind them. Naomi stood there confidently, like she already knew what was going to happen. Crispin stood stiffly, his posture painfully straight, with an expression that screamed superiority. And there, in the centre, was Cook.

Tess's stomach churned as her gaze locked with Cook's for a fleeting second. He was smirking, his hands shoved lazily into his pockets. Tess quickly looked away, her cheeks heating as she remembered the state he'd found her in last night—drunk, half-conscious, and far from her usual self.

Pandora was practically bouncing in her seat, clapping her hands in excitement. "This is so exciting!" she whispered to Tess, her voice cutting through the room.

Doug's voice boomed through the microphone, cutting off the murmurs in the room. "Drum roll, please! Thank you."

The headmistress stepped forward, her expression tight as she held up a slip of paper. Tess straightened slightly, trying to focus despite the noise in her head.

"And the winner is... Naomi!" the headmistress declared, holding her hand out toward Naomi as if ushering her forward.

The crowd stayed silent apart from Tess, Panda and Emilys efforts. Pandora squealed in delight, jumping out of her seat. "Naomi, you did it!" she shrieked, though Naomi hadn't even moved.

Naomi stepped forward slowly, her face betraying nothing but faint amusement. "You should have more confidence," she said, her voice carrying over the murmurs.

The headmistress blinked, confused. "What?"

"I mean," Naomi continued, "your tits are fine. Probably a bit flat, but no need to stuff your bra." As she said this, she reached into the headmistress's blazer and pulled out a stack of crumpled ballots.

Gasps echoed through the hall, followed by laughter and whispers. Tess's eyes widened as Naomi began reading aloud, holding the papers up for everyone to see. "Cook, Cook, Cook, Cook."

"Naomi," the headmistress snapped, her face turning a deep red. "Stop the silliness. Celebrate. You've won."

Naomi shook her head, smirking. "No, Cook won." She turned toward him, "He's our president."

For a moment, the room was silent. Then Cook threw his arms up in the air and shouted, "And my first act as President of this school is to declare this riot open!"

Chaos erupted as if on cue. JJ jumped out of his seat, yelling, "Yeah!" Students began shouting, overturning chairs, and banging on the tables.. Tess barely had time to react before the common room descended into anarchy.

Through the madness, Cook caught her gaze again. This time, his usual cocky grin was replaced by something softer—genuine, almost. Tess hesitated, caught off guard, before managing an awkward smile in return. She wasn't entirely sure what it meant or why it made her stomach flip, but for now, it didn't matter.

Whatever it was, it felt like a start.