Chapter Text
“Stop Teresa,” Thomas batted her hand away as she tried to ruffle his hair. It was getting too long, he was aware, but she did this every time she saw him. He wasn’t in the mood today.
“Awe come on Tom, what’s up with you?”
“Nothing.” Thomas sighed. “I’m just tired.”
“Okay I know for a fact that’s a lie, something is bugging you.”
He huffed and took a bite of his sandwich. “It’s stupid.”
Teresa turned to him, looking almost slightly angry. “Tom. I’m your best friend. Whatever is bothering you isn’t stupid to me.”
Thomas huffed and pulled out his phone, opening the instagram app. He got the DM two days ago from a completely anonymous account, there was no profile picture and the name was @ITG.A5. He still hadn’t replied.
He tapped on the conversation and slid the phone over to Teresa. He watched her face contort in confusion as she tapped and scrolled. Then, to Thomas’ surprise she started grinning.
“What are you so happy about?”
“This! This is adorable!” Teresa was grinning ear to ear as she clutched the phone. “ ‘hey, I know you don’t know who I am because I’m too nervous to actually talk to you, but you’re the cutest thing I’ve ever seen .’” Teresa slapped his arm. “This is seriously just-ugh!”
Thomas rolled his eyes in amusement at his best friend. “You don’t think it’s creepy? What do you think I should do about it?”
“Not really, But for one you should repl-Tom!” She suddenly gasped. “This was TWO days ago! What the hell are you doing?!”
Thomas shrugged. “I thought it was just someone being stupid.”
“Or it’s actually a really sweet boy who's just nervous to talk to you, like he said he is, and you’re the one being stupid...I'm replying for you,” Teresa stated as she started typing away.
“What are you saying!” Thomas’ eyes widened as he tried to snatch the phone from her.
“Tom relax!” Teresa yelled as she kicked him away. Thomas scowled as her foot connected with his thigh.
“Tell me what you’re saying!”
Teresa handed the phone back to him after a second, a proud look on her face.
Thomas looked down at the screen, his heart rate relaxing back to normal as he realized that what Teresa had said wasn’t really that bad.
“ ‘Thank you :) care to tell me who you are? ’ Really T? I don’t use smiley faces.”
“Shut up, he’ll think it’s cute...I really want to know who it is.”
Thomas pocketed his phone, going back to his sandwich. He really wanted to know who it was too, but he couldn’t act too invested in it, then Teresa would take it too far. “If I find out, I’ll be sure to tell you.”
That seemed to satisfy her because she turned to her own lunch and started to eat, only pausing to wave Gally and Brenda over. Thomas and Gally didn’t get along too well, but he really liked Brenda. He could count the four of them as a pretty tight friend group despite his and Gally’s differences.
The table submerged in chatter that Thomas stopped paying attention to. His thoughts drifted off to the anonymous message sender. He racked his brain, trying to figure out who it could be. Of course, that’s ignoring that possibility that it all really was just a stupid prank. He let his eyes skip around the cafeteria, it really could be anyone, maybe even someone in the school. He never hid his sexuality, he was out to everyone which made him pretty positive that it was a boy. His eyes suddenly stopped on a table, Alby’s table. Alby was the leader of student council, built very muscular and super smart. His dark skin made his brown eyes look soft, he wasn’t bad looking. Thomas didn’t know much about him, or what he was into, but he added him to the list of possibilities he was formulating in his head. He was about to move onto the next table when Teresa slapped his arm, jumping him out of his thoughts.
“Sorry what?”
Teresa just smirked and shook her head. “Don’t worry about it.”
“She wanted to know why you were staring at Al-”
Thomas was literally saved by the bell. The loud sound drown out the rest of Gally’s statement. He got up quickly, slinging his bag over his shoulder and heading out of the cafeteria. He walked alone to Calculus, trying to clear his head. He had to be more careful about investigating this situation.
He sat down at his desk in the back, throwing his bag down on the floor and taking out his phone. He was shocked to see a message back from the anonymous account.
one day I’ll tell ya tommy.
Thomas couldn’t keep the dorky smile off his face as he typed back, Tommy huh?
I should really think before I hit send…lol (is it still cool to say lol?)
Thomas bit his lip to keep from laughing. It was never cool to say lol...but the Tommy thing...it’s fine
good that.
***
Tell me stuff. Thomas flopped onto his bed, holding his phone above his face as he messaged his mystery guy. He had to admit, not knowing who the boy was drove him a little crazy, but it was almost fun in a way. It was like a puzzle and Thomas loved puzzles.
what kind of stuff?
Stuff about you
what kind of stuff about me?
I don’t know...you texted me, Teresa thinks I should try to get to know you
teresa’s your girlfriend?
Gross no, best friend since preschool
good that.
Thomas was about to reply when another text came in. He rolled onto his stomach, getting situated more comfortably on his bed.
I like to read. comic books are cool.
What kind of comic books?
marvel. I love superheroes
Oh yeah? Who’s your favorite?
...that’s like asking me to choose between food and water tommy
Well I like Bruce Banner
you’re into marvel? How come you like Banner?
Yes and no. I’ve never touched a comic, but I’ve seen a few of the movies. And really? What’s not to like about Banner! He’s a genius with a badass alter ego
alright if I had to pick…hm probably captain america
Why?
because he used to be a skinny loser who kept getting rejected...then he ended up saving the world. I dunno, I admire him. he’s everything I aspire to be
Cause he’s a good person?
It wasn’t until an hour later that mystery boy responded. By then, Thomas had already fallen asleep, his face smashed into the pillow, his phone hanging out of his hand. He was snoring softly when his phone lit up with a message.
because he made his life worth something.
***
“Go away you foul demon.” Thomas swatted weakly at Teresa as she zipped his coat up for him.
“Why are you so cranky Tom? Did something happen?”
“Besides failing my calculus test, I’m fine.”
“Awe baby.” Teresa stuck out her bottom lip and squished his cheeks.
Thomas rolled his eyes and pulled her hands away. “Mystery boy thought you were my girlfriend.”
Teresa’s face contorted into disgust. “Ew why?”
He shrugged. “I brought you up.”
“Well then that makes you stupid Tom. Do you not know how to talk to boys?”
“Shut up...he told me he likes superheroes.”
Teresa smiled softly. “That’s cute. I see you’re taking my advice and texting him back.”
Thomas nodded. “Sometimes you can be right. Plus if he really does go to our school that would be awesome.”
“Correction, most of the time I’m right. I bet he does go to our school, he’s probably not out yet tho. Also Tom, people meet on tinder all the time so this isn’t much different.”
Thomas paused for a moment, cocking his head. “What do you know about tinder?”
A smirk crossed Teresa’s lips. “I may have one.”
“You’re so weird Teresa ew.”
“Hey not all of us have mystery boys drooling all over us.”
“Shut up.” Thomas laughed as he shoved her. “Can we leave now? I want food and I swear that one worker has been eyeing you up for days, maybe you can get some free stuff out of it.”
“You’re obnoxious.” Teresa pushed him back, but she was laughing while she did it which made Thomas join in too.
He smiled wide at her as he grabbed the car keys from her coat pocket. “I’m driving and I get to control the radio.”
“I’m not listening to Sam Smith the entire way there Tom!”
***
good morning tommy
Thomas smiled as he saw the message illuminating his phone, ignoring his blaring alarm. As much as he wanted to know who this person was, the game they were playing was kinda endearing. He had a long talk with Teresa about it last night at dinner, she really supported it so he was going to try.
I don’t want to get out of bed. Thomas cringed as he read what he sent, okay maybe he wasn’t the best texter. Nevertheless, he still got a response.
school isn’t so bad
Maybe, it’s the getting up and getting dressed part when I’m still half asleep that sucks
Thomas yawned as he sat up, finally turning the alarm off and rubbing the sleep from his eyes. He stretched, trying to wake up his muscles as he slid to the edge of the bed. He was about to stand up when his phone lit up with another message.
I hate that you made me think about how cute you probably look in the morning.
Thomas got an idea and stood up as he typed. I’ll send you a picture if you answer three questions
fine. but they can’t be too specific.
Alright...1. Do you go to my school 2. Are you a boy 3. are you gay (...and single)
Thomas pulled on clean boxers and pants before heading toward the bathroom. His phone buzzed when he was in the hallway. He immediately pulled it out of his pocket, feeling his stomach fuzz with excitement.
- yes 2. yes again 3. extremely (isn’t that 4 questions tommy? but I wouldn’t have messaged you if I wasn’t)
Thomas stood in front of the bathroom mirror, running his fingers through his hair. He didn’t look his best but he still opened up the camera, sticking out his tongue and throwing up a peace sign. He knew he probably looked ridiculous, he just took a goddamn mirror selfie for fucks sake, but he hoped his lack of a shirt would make up for all that. He sent it before he could change his mind. He pocketed his phone as he went through his morning routine, eating a granola bar, brushing his teeth, his hair, and finally putting on a shirt.
He slung his backpack over his shoulder and grabbed his car keys. He was about to head out the door when his phone buzzed again.
...fuck
Thomas couldn’t stop smiling the whole drive to school.
***
“How’s your mysterious admirer?” Teresa asked as she slid into the seat next to him in their English classroom.
Thomas silently debated in his head if he should tell her the new information he acquired. After a few silent moments he decided he did sort of want more of her help, Teresa was very smart.
“Well he’s definitely a boy and he goes to this school...and gay too. He’s also single so I’m starting to really believe this isn’t a prank.”
“We kinda already assumed that though. I noticed you staring down Alby yesterday. You think it’s him?”
“He wouldn’t tell me anything too specific, but hey at least now we know for sure.” Thomas paused again, pulling the shortened pencil he found on the gym floor out of his backpack. “But about the Alby thing, I doubt it’s him, but I’m not crossing him off completely. Alby doesn’t really peg me as a marvel nerd, he’s probably into like West Wing or something.”
Teresa was smiling again. “You know Tom, you could probably take him to prom, if you ever find out who he is.”
“What if it’s like…Gally or something.”
Teresa snorted. “Tom we both know Gally kinda hates you. I bet he’s some shy little cutie who you’ve never noticed before.”
Thomas was about to respond but the teacher walked in, cutting him off. They could talk about this another time.
Thomas busied himself by staring at the back of the person’s head who sat in front of him. It was a boy named Aris. He was quiet and mostly only hung around girls, but he was a kind of geeky cute that was somehow also endearing. It could be him. Thomas had barely ever spoken to him before, but Teresa used to meet up with him in the library for help cause Aris is “really smart“. He stared at the light brown hair on the boy’s head. Aris seemed more likely to be the mystery boy than Alby. Maybe he’d ask Teresa about it later. He mentally added him to the list. Two, now he had two possible candidates. Alby and Aris.
***
I’m building a list of people you could possibly be as we speak...well text
Thomas looked around him and turned down his phone brightness. He didn’t want anyone snooping over his shoulder, this mystery was his, he didn’t want the whole school finding out. He was afraid that would scare the boy away.
I can assure you Tommy, you’ll never be able to guess it
Why are you so scared to tell me who you are?
cause you’re you and I’m me
What’s that supposed to mean?
The boy didn’t respond after that which made Thomas feel a mix of sad and guilty. He was dying to know, but the boy must have his reasons for wanting to stay anonymous.
He sent one last message, a double text to be more specific, before putting his phone in his bag.
I don’t mind the anonymous thing. I’m just curious
When he got out of class the first thing he did was check his phone.
I promise I’ll tell ya one day
Thomas felt content with that.
***
“What do you know about Aris?” Thomas asked as Teresa sat down next to him.
She shrugged. “He’s smart, kinda quiet, I don’t know Tom. Why?”
“It could be him.”
“You really think so? He’s kinda all over Sonya, like all the time.”
“No. I don’t know, I’m just trying to think.”
“I think you’re obsessing over this a little.” Teresa grinned as she pinched his cheek which earned her a sharp slap from Thomas.
“Don’t touch my cheeks.”
“But you’re just so adorable.” She went to do it again but Thomas scowled and slid down the bench, putting space between them.
He was about to make a rude remark, but Brenda walked over, giving him another idea. He pulled her down to sit between him and Teresa, grinning when she shook her head.
“I win.”
Teresa flipped him off before falling into a conversation with Brenda that Thomas didn’t bother to listen to. He picked up his phone, feeling warm inside when he saw another text from ITG.A5.
all I can think about is that stupid picture you sent. I can’t decide if I’m mad at you for being so distracting or thankful that that image is burned in my brain
Thomas felt his stomach flutter and he ducked his head to hide his smile.
I choose the one where you’re not mad at me
“What are you all smiley about?” Gally asked as he dropped his tray on the table in front of Thomas.
Thomas snapped his head up quickly, feeling his cheeks heat up. “Nothing.”
Gally raised one of his eyebrows in disbelief but just shook his head and shoved his fork into his corn. The school lunches were pretty nasty, but Gally still chose to eat them everyday, there was really something not right about him.
When Thomas deemed it safe, he looked back down at his phone.
sorry if this is too weird...but you look nice today
Thomas looked down at the red plain long sleeve he was wearing tucked under his favorite flannel. In all honesty, he didn’t think he looked above average, but if mystery boy said so...suddenly a thought dawned on him and he couldn’t hide the weird feeling he got in his throat.
you saw me today?
course I did tommy, I see you everyday we have school. I go here too remember?
in class?
The boy just responded with a shrugging emoji which made Thomas inwardly frown. He was about to reply when Teresa reached around Brenda to smack his shoulder.
“Yo lover boy.”
Thomas glared at her instantly. “Do you ever know when to shut up?!”
She grinned and slid a paper over to him.
Thomas scrunched his face in confusion as he read the words. Suddenly it made sense and his face broke out in a grin that matched Teresa. “Are we actually doing this?”
“That’s a stupid question,” Teresa said as she got up and walked to the other side of the table, sitting next to Gally.
Gally rolled his eyes as Teresa plopped down and rested her elbow on his shoulder. “You guys are such nerds, you’re seriously entering in the WICKED science fair?”
“Yes!” Teresa practically shrieked in his ear making him cringe.
“I think it’s a great idea.” Brenda pointed out as she balled up her empty brown paper lunch bag. She squinted in the direction of the garbage and tossed it, cheering when she made it in.
“No, you guys don’t get it. Me and T have been planning to do this since middle school,” Thomas explained as Teresa took the flyer back.
“Plus, winner gets a paid for limo to take to prom and if you assholes come to the show, we might let you ride in it.”
“Prom is stupid.” Gally shot quickly. His face softened and a small smile formed on his lips. “But of course I’ll come.”
“How come you guys didn’t enter last year? Isn’t it for juniors and seniors?”
Teresa pursed her lips and drummed her fingers on the table. “Why didn’t we enter last year Tom? Care to share with the group.”
Thomas held his middle finger in front of her face which made Gally laugh. “Now I gotta hear this.”
“We couldn’t enter because Thomas was too busy drooling all over Minho and helping him and Ben with their project. Ours never got finished in time so we had to withdraw.”
“Did they win?” Brenda snickered as Thomas covered his face with his hands.
“Of course they did.”
“It was the biceps guys, I swear they’re hypnotic.” Thomas muttered as Brenda broke off in laughter again.
“He does have really nice arms.” Teresa agreed as Gally cringed.
“There’s nothing in the world that I care less about than Minho’s arm muscles.”
“It took her weeks to forgive me after that.” Thomas admitted as he flicked a blueberry at his best friends’ head. “This year I will not be distracted by a hot boy who looks like god himself sculpted his biceps.”
Teresa thought for a moment. “Hey maybe Minho is the-”
“Teresa!”
“What?”
Thomas tried to shake his head discreetly, but Gally caught on. “I think Thomas is hiding something...or someone.”
“No!” Thomas spluttered.
“He totally is!” Brenda’s mouth opened as she feigned a look of utter shock.
Thomas was staring daggers at Teresa. “This is your fault.”
She mouthed the word “sorry”, but Thomas could tell she was enjoying this.
“It’s nothing guys...please drop it.”
Gally opened his mouth to say something, but before he could the bell rang saving Thomas once again. Thomas was up and running out the cafeteria before anyone even could even notice the period was over.
Thomas was halfway to his class when something Teresa said popped back up into his mind, making him stop in the middle of the hallway.
Maybe Minho was his mystery boy. Everyone knew Minho was bi. After he won WICKED last year, Minho kissed Ben hard in front of everyone on the stage. Thomas probably would have cried if it wasn’t so fucking hot. He wasn’t sure if they ever dated, but he could definitely see Minho being into marvel. That sort of action seemed like it could definitely be his thing, it was just the reading part that made him slightly skeptical. Minho didn’t seem like the kid of guy who would sit down and read a book although he was very intelligent. They also got along really well while working on the WICKED project last year. Thomas hadn’t spoke to him sense then, but it was a possibility. He shook his head slightly, realizing he was still standing in the middle of the hall. His mind was still reeling as he walked to rest of the way to his classroom. Now he had three possibilities; Alby, Aris and Minho.
***
what did you do today?
Thomas was on his bed, sprawled across it with his phone clutched in his hands. He kept refreshing his DM’s, he was bored and the only thing on his mind was this boy.
went to school, came home...I’m trying to do homework
Homework is boring, talk to me
...sounds like a good plan. what did you do today tommy?
I entered the science fair with Teresa
oh yeah? I didn’t know you were into science
We have an awesome idea...we’re totally winning
I bet you will...what’s your plan?
You’ll have to come and see :)
you want me to come?
Well yeah, I want everyone to come, but I think you’d like it
then I’ll be there.
Thomas stomach did flips and he found himself grinning at his phone screen again. The science fair four was months away, but the fact that this random boy was going to come made his chest tighten. Not many students came to WICKED, Thomas hoped he could pick him out from the masses of teachers and parents.
Thomas opened the camera and smiled big at the screen, even closing his eyes so he could smile wider. He laughed at it after he took it but sent it anyways. The response was immediate.
you’re adorable tommy
I’m happy you’re coming to WICKED, it’ll be fun I promise
of course it'll be fun...i'll talk to you tomorrow...goodnight
goodnighttt
Thomas took a deep breath and called Teresa. She picked up on the fourth ring. She barely had time to say hello before Thomas was screaming into the speaker.
“THE MYSTERY BOY IS COMING TO WICKED SO WE NEED TO FUCKING WIN TERESA OKAY? NO MERCY FOR THE WEAK.” Then he hit the end button and took a deep breath.
Four months. He had four months to figure out who this boy was.