Page 15 of Freshman

“You’d say no to the perfect guy if he was shorter than you?”

She nodded. “I’d have to. If it’s a choice between my killer shoe collection and the man of my dream, I’ll have to pick shoes.”

“Wow.”

“Speaking of shoes…” Tia threw herself towards the table. The plate on top rattled. “My birthday…”

“Your birthday?”

“It’s coming up.”

“In four months time, and what’s that got to do with shoes.”

“I’ve already picked a pair.” She nodded. “Promise me you’ll come out on the town with us.”

Alfie widened his eyes. “Us?”

“Yes, us, my besties. Maybe I’ll even invite Chris.”

“Chris? The guy who scribbled his name on a cup? The one you’ve already decided you’re too tall for?”

“Did I mention he’s cute?” Her smile grew. “He might be into guys too…”

“You’re trying to match me up with a guy you’ve not formally rejected yet?”

Tia shrugged. “Is that so bad?”

“Yes. And he’s not even my type.”

“I know someone who is…”

“Tia…”

“Max is coming, and who knows, on my birthday he might end up coming too.” She winked at him.

“You’re not subtle.”

“Maybe you two can come together…again.”

“We kissed, once.”

“But he’s your type, right?”

Alfie looked away. He tried not to think of Nate, but he popped into his head and Alfie shivered.

“I don’t know.”

She sighed. “Promise me you’ll come out for my birthday.”

“It’s four months away.”

“On a Saturday.” She pressed her hands together in a prayer pose. “I’m asking you now, well in advance. Please, Alfie.”

“Okay…”

“Yes!” She punched the air. “We’ll have fun, I promise.”

“Tia?”

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