Page 70 of Drama Queens Don't Fall For Charming Boys

“Sweetie, that’s not enough,” Mom says. “Your father and I are worried you don’t have anyone your age you can confide in.”

Dad chuckles. “We know you’re not going to confide in us, which is okay. You’re a teenager after all. But it would ease our minds to know you have people who are close to you.”

I continue driving. “I’m okay, Mom and Dad. Really. Please don’t worry about me. I’m going to a party and I’m going to get so drunk I won’t even know my name.”

They gasp.

“That was a joke,” I tell them. “You know I don’t drink. Please lighten up.”

“You’re our baby,” Mom says. “Of course we’re going to worry about you.”

I groan. “Mom, please. I’m almost seventeen.”

She sighs. “You’re right, you’re right. But you’re having a good time with the play, aren’t you? Because if you’re not, you don’t have to stay. Please don’t feel obligated to Tori. She’s a sweet girl, of course, but if you’re unhappy, you need to tell us.”

I smile. “The play is the best part of my life right now. I feel like I’m home, you know? You guys are going to come see it, won’t you?”

“Of course!” Dad says. “We wouldn’t miss it for the world. Even if there’s an earthquake, we’ll be there.”

I laugh. “Let’s hope there won’t be any earthquakes.”

We chat a bit more until I reach Jarel’s house. After ending the call, I get out of the car, make sure my new cap is down on my eyes so no one around can identify me, then I make my way to the front door.

“Declan!” a voice calls.

Turning around, I find Tiffany heading toward me, a wide smile on her face. Some other cheerleaders and jocks are getting out of the car that she must have climbed out of.

Sliding off my cap and shaking out my hair, I smile and wave. “Hey, how’s it going?”

She scans me from top to bottom. “You look so sexy today.”

“Thanks. I try.”

Her smile widens even more as she wraps her fingers around my bicep. “And you’re so strong.”

“Thanks.”

She steps closer to me, so close that there are barely any inches between us. “Do I look pretty?”

She’s wearing a short skirt that exposes her long legs. I wonder if she’s cold in this weather. “Sure.” I smile.

She giggles. “You’re so shy, Declan. You can say it, you know. I am the hottest girl at school.”

Maybe that’s true—I don’t know. But I like to see the inside of a person as well as the outside. But I don’t say anything because she’s my fan and I need to make her happy.

“Everyone at school is pretty,” I tell her. “And such nice people. They’ve all been so welcoming to me. Thanks.”

She laughs as she playfully slaps my chest. “You’re so cute. Oh my gosh. I love shy and humble guys.”

Laughing lightly, I push my fingers through my hair.

She smiles as she takes my hand. “Let’s go inside.”

We, along with the group, enter the house. It’s a pretty big house and it’s crowded with people. Most are talking and laughing while some are dancing. I catch a few couples making out.

“This is probably so lame compared to Hollywood parties,” Tiffany says. “I’m so jealous you get to go to those. Maybe you can take me one day.” She smiles widely again.

I return a pleasant one. “Want a drink?” I offer.

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