“No problem. Let’s go.”
We traipse alongside each other up the long cobblestone driveway already lined with dozens of cars towards the brick dwelling. The drum of music becomes louder as we draw closer.
“We’re going to be the baddest bitches at the party,” she says confidently, opening the unlocked door.
I’m floored by the sight before me. A disc jockey is stationed at the back wall, and a strobe light affixed on the arched ceiling washes the room in bright colors. This puts me in the mind of the clubs I’ve seen depicted in numerous movies. It’s really crowded. There must be a hundred people in here, possibly more.
“Pepper.” Camden appears at my side. “Welcome to my humble abode.”
“This party is epic,” Trish says.
“This is your house?” I ask incredulously.
“Nah, my parents’, but they’re in Paris for the summer.”
“Wait a minute. Do you two know each other?” I ask.
“Nope, it’s a small world,” he answers. “And anyway, I don’t recognize half the people here.”
“Let’s dance.” Trish takes my hand and ushers me through the throng of gyrating bodies.
“I don’t know how to.”
“That’s cool, just follow my lead.”
She twirls around to face me and begins to provocatively sway her hips. I try to mimic her movements, but I’m too awkward and uncoordinated to be successful. Someone clasps my waist from behind and grinds against my bottom. I glance over my shoulder and see Camden.
“What are you doing?”
“Relax and enjoy yourself.” His hands skate up my rib cage and graze the underside of my breasts.
I jam my elbow into his stomach and muster all my strength to break free, but I’m sandwiched in between Trish and him. He becomes bolder and kneads my nipples.
“Let go!” I reach behind me and grab two fistfuls of his hair and yank forward.
“Goddamn it!” he yelps, relinquishing his grip on me.
I whirl on him. “How dare you?”
“Don’t be such a prude,” Trish says.
“He touched my breasts.”
“Oh, for Christ’s sake, it’s just dancing,” she chides, exasperated. “You’re too uptight, honey. Chill and have a great time.”
“Yeah. What’s the big deal?” Camden asks.
“I’m leaving.” I sprint into the horde of people and rush towards the exit.
“What is your problem?” Trish takes ahold of my arm.
“I don’t like him.”
“He seems cool.”
“Stay and have fun. I’ll catch an Uber home.”
“Are you serious? The party is just getting started.”
