Back to You

First day of school

Monse's POV

Its been two weeks since Cesar and I kissed. We werent avoiding each other but definitely ignoring that kiss. Everyone has been pretty busy sorting out jobs and school so I've spent most of the time writing.

I put on my favourite blouse and a skirt hoping this will work. How do teachers even dress? I remember very little of our high teachers' fashion choices. I stare at myself in the mirror. Unsure of this I feel like I should change. Just as I start to unbutton my blouse, my phone vibrates and I know I have no time to change now.

I quickly grab my bag and folder and run through the door. I got in the car waiting for me and looked at the driver smirking.

"Somethings never change," he laughs putting my stuff on the backseat.

"Cesar, it's my first day I'm nervous enough," I sigh tugging at the bottom of my shirt.

"Monse, you're qualified, you mean well and you look beautiful. Stop worrying about what could go wrong and breathe," Cesar assures as he takes my hand and traces circles on it looking right in my eyes. I'm still a mess but for those few seconds it all seems okay.

"Sorry, old habits die hard," he snaps out of it and starts driving.

We drive to school in a comfortable silence. We finally reach the school and it's time for me to face this new challenge.

" Thanks again Cesar, you really didn't have to do this," I say opening the door

"No problem, I'll always make time for you," he grins. That smile always made me weak in the knees. Before I realise what's happening he gets out the car and runs to block my path. Thankfully it's still pretty early and the parking lot is empty.

"What?" I query

He kisses my forehead and pulls me into a hug. "You'll be great ," he whispers into my ear. I'm stuck in my place for a few seconds after he steps back and heads to his car.

"Thanks, I'll see you later," I finally reply ready to take Freeridge High by storm.

As I walk through the halls I'm flooded by memories of my time here as a student.

Cafeteria squad meetings.

Supply closet escapes with Cesar.

Chemistry class with Olivia. Oh Olivia I miss you so much.

Writing with Jasmine

Calculus with Ruby

History with Jamal

All the experiences that made highschool great no matter how long or short-lived they were. I finally reach Mrs. Rodriguez's office and knock.

I hear a faint "come" and push the door.

"Monse sweetie it's been too long," Mrs. Rodriguez says as she tightly hugs me. Mrs Rodriguez taught me English throughout highschool and now she headed the department. I'm so excited to work with her. She was the reason I even applied to NYU. She always believed in me and pushed me to be my best self. I'm where I am today as a writer because of her and I'm forever grateful.

Our meeting is more like a chat with coffee. She tells me what is expected of me but we mostly talk about what happened in the last four years. I missed talking to her, she really went beyond her duty as a teacher also acting as a counselor when needed.

The rest of the day flashes by, it's more training and getting up to speed with the policies. As I hear through the door Mrs Rodriguez stops me.

"Hey Monse, let me give you a ride home," she offers, typical Mrs Rodriguez always trying to help.

"I'm good thanks, my ride should be here any minute. There he is," I point to Cesar who was already waiting on me.

"Are you guys back together?" she quizzes with knowing smile

"No we are not, he's just helping," I say feeling myself blush.

"Alright sweetie, whatever you say. I will see you tomorrow," she smirks before heading to her car.

"Hey, how was your day?" he inquires as soon as I get into the car.

"Pretty great. Yours?" I respond

"Good, worked on a new plan for the firm and I get to chauffeur a beautiful girl to and from her job," he grins

"She must be special to have you smiling like that," I muse

"Honestly, everything she does makes me smile," he looks into my eyes and I feel a flutter in my stomach. How does he still manage to do this years later?

The rest of the ride goes by with him updating me on the happenings in the Ridge. I love being around him like this.

I could get used to this arrangement. Maybe even permanently.

Sorry it's been so long since I've left updated. I've been traveling and time really flew by. Will try to do already one updated every week from now.

Hope you guys enjoyed!