I surrender

Chapter 6

I drive home from school after football practice I can only think about Valerie. Her words telling me being unpopular is way more fun. I wish it was that easy maybe it is and I am just overthinking it. I pull into the garage. "hey sweetie how was school"mom asks "it was good"I say 

"how was football practice"mom says "it was the same as always"I say "you ready for your game on Friday"mom asks "mom can I be honest with you for a second"I say "yes honey"Mom says 

"there's is girl in my math class her name is Valerie and she isn't a cheerleader or a popular girl but I like her and She told me being popular is like being in jail and being a outcast and a loser could be more fun"I say 

"honey are you telling me you want to quit football"Mom says confused  "no I am not quitting football, I just I wish I didn't have to be popular anymore"I say "honey if you like this girl and if you think being popular is stupid then follow your heart just don't get bullied okay"Mom says 

"I'll protect myself don't you worry mom"I say "good"Mom says hugging me I hug her back. 

my phone buzzes. 

Marcus: Dude you want to go a party after the game on Friday 

hayden: no I'll pass 

Marcus: dude you never turn down a party what's up 

Hayden: I just think being popular is getting old and everyone uses you for attention 

Marcus: did Valerie tell you that 

Hayden: so what if she did you told me not to be a douchebag you told me to put my brain to good use 

Marcus: dude calm down I am not pissed okay just little surprised. But, we've been friends forever and if you want to be an outcast and a loser then so be it. I am not stopping you. you're my best friend. But, if anyone hurts you, I swear to god I will punch them. 

Hayden: thanks man 

Marcus: no problem bro 

I set my phone down relieved. I felt like a weight lifted off of my chest. it felt so good to be free Valerie was right being an outcast is so much more fun.