I take a deep breath and walk to my door. I’m not ready to face my mother and her potential questions. One, I’ve never gone to a party since fifth grade. Two, I’ve never texted to stay the night at my friend’s house while at a party. Three, what if she can smell what Luke did to me in Caden’s basement?
Sure, I found a mint to suck on, but honestly, I don’t know how I look or smell. And even if she doesn’t smell or suspect anything, I’m not sure my mom won’t get the truth out of me. It’s practically bursting to get out.
Opening the door to the house, I walk inside and look around. It’s all quiet.
I check my phone for messages and don’t see any. The schedule up on the refrigerator says she’s off today, but sometimes she gets called in. As I walk farther into the house, I hear the TV and follow the sound to the family room.
Mom is asleep on the sofa. I breathe a sigh of relief.
Hurrying upstairs to my room, I take another shower. What Luke made me do didn’t make me feel dirty, but I still can’t help thinking Mom will be able to tell. I don’t bother washing my hair again. I change into one of my t-shirts and a fresh pair of jeans before putting on some light makeup. Mostly makeup to cover the hickeys, plus some ChapStick.
Who knew kissing five guys would make your lips chap? I blush at my reflection. Five. Fuck, four was already a lot. Myreputation at school will be trashed, but at least I’ll have a reputation now.
On my way downstairs, I hear some movement in the kitchen. I take a breath and head in to face my executioner.
“I thought I heard you.” Mom lifts her gaze from the coffee machine. She takes in my freshly washed and clothed self. “What are you up to?”
“Getting breakfast with Kenz.” I almost say to catch up, but I was supposed to stay at Kenz’s house last night. “She didn’t have anything at her house, and we wanted to be fresh in case we run into anyone.”
Mom’s eyebrow rises. “Like the boys?”
I shake my head and smile. “Nope. No boys. They all have football practice.”
It’s not like Mom doesn’t know about the four guys in my life. I went to a party with Kenz last night. She has to know they were there.
“Nico Lee is back in town,” I say, trying to distract her from asking about the party. I wouldn’t be able to tell her much. I’d been too worried what the guys would do to Nico. Turns out nothing he wouldn’t like.
Mom is busy with the coffee machine. I also want to keep her from commenting on the football players in my life. She didn’t like Eli one-on-one, just like I thought she wouldn’t. His charm offensive didn’t impress my mom.
After she pours her cup of coffee, she smiles at me. “I always liked Nico. He called to see where you were.”
“Yup, I ran into him at the game, and he came to the party with me and Kenz.” All true statements. “We didn’t get to catch up much, so I might try to hang out with him later. He went to practice to see about joining the team.”
“Sorry, all I can picture is the scrawny little kid who used to tear into my kitchen with you looking for snacks.” Mom’s smile softens. “I can’t imagine what he looks like now. You’ll have to bring him by sometime.”
“Of course.” I edge toward the door. “He’s one of my best friends.”
I don’t mention he’s hot as hell and fantastic with his tongue. But I’m sure my face has turned red.
Mom’s eyes narrow. “Do your footballers have some competition?”
My mind flashes with images of Eli and Nico in the shower. I swallow and try to remain normal. “He’s friends with the guys too. Like I said, I’m not really looking to seriously date someone my senior year. It gets weird with everyone leaving for college.”
Mom watches me closely as she sips her coffee. Her silence is a trick she found always makes me confess. Unfortunately for me, it usually works. And I have so much inside I need to unpack.
Before I can blurt anything out, a knock sounds on the door. Relief spills through me. I turn and open it. Kenz smiles at both of us.
“Morning. You ready, H?”
I glance at Mom. “I’m heading out. I’ll probably see you this afternoon?”
“Go. Have fun with your friend. We’ll see each other when we see each other.” Mom waves her hand at me. “Harper, I’m happy you’re getting out more. Really.”
“Me too.” I give my mom a smile and follow Kenz to the door.
I almost get out the door when Mom says, “Next week is third shifts. You could stay with Kenz if you want to.”
I pause. “I’ll think about it, but I’ve got a pretty heavy course load next week. We have tests in two of my classes, so it might be better if I stay home.”
