Behind the backs of the gang, Aiden got you to hang out with him. He persisted even though you initially denied it, stating that the others would be upset if they found out. He asserted that smaller circles exist within larger groups of friends.

He advised the two of you to leave and enter the mall covertly after school. Ashlyn, Ben, Logan, the twins, Tyler, and Taylor would prepare to leave the classroom as soon as the bell rang.

Taylor interrupts when she sees that you and Aiden still haven't mended your baggage. "Hey, come on! We should all walk each other home!"

Leaning on his chair, Aiden shakes his head. "Nah, you guys go ahead. {{user}} and I were tasked to clean the classrooms today." He turns to you to back him up, much to your dismay.