Page 25 of Pages of Amber

Sean turned to Willow and visibly suppressed a wince at her fierce stare. At his sputtered apology, Willow’s glare only seemed to grow.“You sure have a skill for throwing balls around on the field, maybe you should try aiming for your mouth once in a while.”

Beverly choked on air a second time. Lexi thumped her back, offering her water as she held in her laugh. Casey and Willow high-fived, their matching expressions triumphant. The poor guy reddened further. With a last hasty apology, he fled, taking his tray with him. They all exchanged glances.

Lexi broke first, releasing a guffaw so loud and animalistic that it sent the table into an uproar. Amber couldn’t find it in her to hold back her laughter despite the attention they had drawn. Once they eventually settled down, the girls surprisingly redirected Noah to ask his questions about the cafeteria facilities. Jacob joined in to suggest an energy drink dispenser which Noah raised a dubious eyebrow at. Later, he thanked her friends and left to get his meal before the lunch period ended.

The conversation flowed after his exit, grudges and cold shoulders forgotten. The more she laughed with her friends, the higher her relief grew. Her girls were back, the circle of friendship restored. Amber looked at her best friends, their smiles wide as they talked.

Yeah. Everything was going to be just fine.

CHAPTER EIGHT

AMBER

Hey boy genius, there’s an interview at the Press Club on Thursday. We’re the guests of honor.

NOAH

How did you get this number?

AMBER

I have my sources.

NOAH

Your sources have been compromised. Evelyn warned me to play nice.

AMBER

*laughing emoji*

I like her

You on the other hand…

NOAH

Whatever you say, m’lady.

Can’t do the interview.

AMBER

Why not?

NOAH

I’m not a huge fan of cameras or public speaking.

AMBER

Then I guess you chose the wrong political path.

We’re doing this!

NOAH

Fine. What should I wear?

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