My house has always been the hangout spot for my friends. I’ve been ignoring them lately, choosing to spend as much time as I can with Zara. Alone.
Three hours. That’s how long I’ve been sitting in the games room with the guys. I’ve had drinks and snacks spread out for them. Spencer and Dan are playing a game of pool, while James and I are sitting down taking bets on who is going to win.
“You excited for your girlfriend’s party?”
“How do you know about Zara’s party?” I ask.
“Got an invite.” James smirks. “Guess she likes me.”
“Fuck off.” I shove his shoulder. “She’s just being polite. It’s how she’s been raised.”
“Whatever. We all got invites.”
“Her father hates me enough without associating me with you degenerates,” I groan.
“Promise to be on my best behaviour. Think she’ll have hot, rich girlfriends from that preppy school she came from there?”
“No idea. I haven’t requested the attendee list.” I roll my eyes.
“One can hope,” James mutters.
“You seriously done with Cynthia?” I ask him.
“Done and dusted, mate.”
My phone beeps and I see Zara’s name pop up with a message.
Zara:
You free?
Me:
For you, always.
“I’ve got something to do. I’ll catch you all at school tomorrow,” I tell all three of my friends, who smirk back at me.
“You know you jump whenever she says so,” Dan says.
“And that’s a problem for youbecause…?” I press him.
“It’s not. I’ve just never seen you so hung up on a chick.”
“She’s different,” I tell him before walking out of the room. Zaraisdifferent. I’ve never loved anyone the way I love this girl.
My steps freeze. Holy shit. I love her. I’m in love with Zara McKinley. It makes sense. I guess I have been for a while, but now that thought is stuck in my head.
When her name flashes on my screen again, this time with a video call request, I answer it. “Hey.”
“I need help.”
“What’s wrong?” I look for my keys, ready to go to her.
“I have three dresses to wear to this party. I need you to tell me which one looks the best,” she says.
“Dresses? You need help choosing a dress?” I drop my keys and rake a hand through my hair. “You’re okay then?”
“No, I’m not okay, Ares. This is serious. I’ll be in photos, so many photos. I need the best dress.”
