Page 55 of We're At It Again

“No need to apologize. I’m over it.”

An awkward silence settled between us as I took in his rugged appearance. He’d left his flannel shirt unbuttoned with only a thin, sleeveless top underneath. A blush crept up my cheeks as I realized I was staring. He smirked, catching me in the act.

“Like what you see?”

I rolled my eyes, trying to hide my embarrassment.

“Our birthdays are coming up. What do you want to do?” I asked, attempting to change the conversation.

“I plan on sleeping.”

“No, you’re not,” I said, with a determined glint in my eye. “I’m hosting a joint party for us.”

He sighed but couldn’t hide the hint of amusement in his eyes. It had been years since we had a joint party.

“Fine. I’ll be there.”

“Perfect!” I said, my face lighting up with excitement. “I’m going to plan.”

He shook his head with a small smile.

“Looking forward to it, Snow.”

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33

HUDSON

THE NIGHT WAS CRISP, and the stars twinkled like diamonds in the dark sky as I approached Luna’s house. Laughter and music drifted into the night, contrasting my brooding mood. I hesitated at the crowd’s edge, feeling out of place with unfamiliar faces.

My eyes scanned the sea of people, searching for someone I knew, but it was unlikely. Relief washed over me as I spotted Eli near the snack table. I made a beeline for him.

“Hey.” He greeted me with a grin. “I’ve been trying to convince you to have a party for years, and all it took was one ask from Luna.”

I rolled my eyes, unable to hide the smile tugging at my lips.

“I guess you weren’t pretty enough.”

He chuckled at my teasing before handing me a drink. We chatted for a bit, making me feel more at ease with my friend at my side. Luna and Maya appeared; their faces lit up with joy. Luna threw her arms around me in a warm hug.

“Happy birthday!”

“Happy birthday to you.” I said, with a genuine smile on my face. “Mine isn’t until tomorrow.”

She laughed, her eyes sparkling.

“This is a countdown to your day.”

We all stood together, chatting and laughing until a group of friends called her and Maya over. She excused herself, leaving me alone with Eli again. I watched her leave. A sense of contentment washed over me until I noticed Cynthia and Jockstrap enter.

My mood darkened. Anger surged through me as I noticed the arrogant grin plastered on his face. I strode over, my fists clenched at my sides.

“What are you doing here?” I asked, my voice low and dangerous.

Jockstrap smirked, crossing his arms.

“I’ve never missed Luna’s birthday, and I don’t plan to start now.”

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