I’m feeling goose bumps every damn time he touches me.
“Damn—did you all know it was his birthday?” I turn to the girls in mock surprise.
Becca shakes her head. “No way! I just came to pick up guys.”
“I only came because Lane loves me so much, he can’t bear the thought of a whole evening without me.” Lois shrugs.
“I’m here because I didn’t have a choice.”
The group whips around to Amelia.
“Who forced you to come?”
“Carrie.”
Snitch!
Lois frowns. “How come, Carrie?”
“I was scared there’d be a lot of no-shows. I was trying to get a crowd together.”
“So thoughtful of you,” Don whispers in my ear.
“So unhinged,” Amelia corrects.
“Whoisthis charming young lady?” Lewis booms, pushing his way through the group.
Shit! I was hoping to ease her into it with Adam before hitting her with Lewis!
He offers a hand to Amelia, who pauses before taking it.
“Lewis Conley.”
“Amelia Wolinski,” she deadpans.
“Wolinski?” Lewis freezes, still clasping her hand in his. “You’re kidding, right? Another one? I should warn you—Carrie got there first! You’re gonna need to pick a different Campus Driver!”
“This is my little sister, you dumbass!” Don elbows Lewis in the side. “AndIshould warnyou—you better show her some respect.”
“This is Coach’s daughter?” Lewis’s eyes widen. He bows low in Amelia’s direction. “You never saw me here.”
As I watch him weave his way back through the crowds, I can’t help but smile. Lewis needs help. Professional help. I glance at Amelia.
“Let me guess—that’s one of Donovan’s ‘super nice’ friends?”
“That’s Donovan’s weirdest friend,” I correct. “The others will seem exceptional by comparison.”
Lane has popped up beside Lois. “Totally agree.”
“Everyone knows Adam’s the best, though.” She glances at Lane. “Sorry, honey—but you come straight after Lewis on the crazies list.”
“Oh, God,” Don groans. “Not you, too, Lois. Don’t tell me you think he’s ‘charming’…”
“I mean, heis…”
“Adam!” Don yells out. “Get your ass over here!”
Adam wanders over from the couch obligingly.
