“I love you!” He calls back before turning to the book.
“I know!” I say as I’m closing the door.
See, I did that because I know he’s coming after me. AndI knowI’m an attention seeker… Sue me for wanting the hottest boy in town coming after me, demanding a kiss.
Seconds later, I hear footsteps behind me, just as I slow down and take tiny steps. He hugs me from behind, stopping me from going home.
“You think you’re clever, huh?” He says, burying his head on my shoulder while I bite my lip.
“Takes one to know one.”
“Say it back.”
“Hmm…” I hum out loud. I let the back of my head rest against him.
“Tell me you love me right now.” He demands, and I beam.
“Love you too.” I spin within his embrace and kiss his nose, then run away while he stares at me, looking like he was just struck by lightning. I’m turning onto our street when I hear his voice in the distance.
“Don’t be late!” I grab the wall that separates both streets to look at him and shrug.
When I get to the house, I take the quickest shower in my life. I’ve never dressed up as quickly as I am doing right now. Allison mocks me, already ready.
“I never thought I’d live to see the day you hurried up for something.” She lets out, leaning against the door as I put on Chapstick. I put it down and grab the Lightning McQueen paper bag. It’s his favorite movie ever, even though he tells people it’sRevenge Of The Sith. I go down the stairs, each step faster than the previous one, as if I’m a kid again, proud of my present and kinda nervous too.
I annoy everyone out of the house, and soon enough, we’re opening their gate — my dad has a spare key — and stepping into a lit garden with tiny lamps floating above in the trees and between them. Their dining table is standing with too many chairs and too many dishes. Emily greets us, stepping out with food platters. Hello and Hi all over the place as I see Jake’s other grandparents and English family standing around and chatting. Even Patrick and Linda are here, with their little newborn Rosie.
Suddenly, I’m very embarrassed while carrying my cartoon paper bag.
I try to hide it and discreetly place it in the present pile.
I go and get snacks.
“Is the Cars paper bag yours?” Whom I recognize as Jake’s older cousin, Kate, asks.
“Uh, yes…” I say kind of flustered.
“Please never stop humbling him, I beg.” She smiles kindly, and I laugh.
“Oh, I’m the person for that, for sure.”
“Yes, she is.” Graham joins us, followed by the group.
“And how Jake is related toyouis nature’s biggest mystery. Aaron.” He introduces himself, trying to flirt, and Kate is trying not to roll her eyes, I’m sure.
“Kate. Happily taken.” She smiles back, almost smirking at his weak attempt.
“She’s dating Jack Gray, dipshit.” Graham corrects, almost ashamed to be related to Aaron. The latter only counters with a shrug, and Graham sighs. “Soccer player? Led England to win the Eurocup? Epic game by the way.”
“How am I supposed to know? I don’t watch soccer!” He takes out a cigarette from his pocket and lights it. “Why on Earth would I watch soccer…”
“Yes, and he’d have an episode hearing you call it soccer.” She adds, and Graham nods as if he doesn’t blame him. “I suppose you’re Jake’s friends?”
“The moron pack, as she likes to call us.” Aaron blows out the smoke, and I freeze. “Don’t worry, I get it. It’s difficult to think otherwise when you have the Graham and Jake combo.”
“Happy birthday!” Paige yells as she hugs Jake’s waist, and we all turn to look at him.
His whole face lights up, and he hugs back. She steps away, and he takes her hands.
