Page 56 of The Fake Out Flex

And it's based on a common trait we share—we're all virgins.

We are not a cult. I repeat, we are not a cult.

We're just four—well, now five—girls who have made a choice that feels right for us.

It's not a judgment on anyone else, but we all have our reasons, and it's great to have a close group of friends to support you in this. It can be tough sometimes, navigating dating and other people's perceptions. I'm glad I'm not alone, that I can always count on my girls.

Oh, and if you're wondering about the name The Vinaigrettes? That's a great story…for another time.

"I know there's nothing wrong with waiting, but…" I blow out a breath. "All three of my relationships have ended at the twelve-month mark. Maybe there's something in that? What sort of guy wants to wait more than a year before getting physically intimate with his girlfriend?"

Hannah: "The right guy."

Summer: "Exactly. And you were up-front with Bryce?—"

Beth: "You were up-front with all three guys."

Summer: "Exactly. They knew the deal, and they signed up. They're all adults and capable of standing by the commitment they made."

Me: "But three relationships? All ending after a year? Come on. At some point, don't I have to at least consider that it might not be them? That it's this. Either that or I'm cursed. Not sure which option is worse."

Hannah: "Is it something you still believe in?"

Me: "Of course. I want to wait until my wedding night. It's really important to me."

Hannah: "Well, then, that's your answer. Keep waiting, and the right guy will show up."

Me: "You're right." I blow out a breath. "This is exactly what I needed to hear. Thanks, you guys."

Hannah: "Anytime, babe."

Summer: "That's right. We're all in this together."

Beth: "Amiel, welcome to the circus."

Before Amiel can say anything, Mrs. Kagney calls out from the other side of the street. "Oh, hi, Evelyn. You look great in the photos!" She gives a wave before slipping into the produce store.

I turn to my friends, only to be met with blank expressions. "What was she talking about?"

"No idea."

We continue walking past the gazebo in the town square and…why is everyone looking at us?

Hannah: "Have we all got something on our faces?"

Summer: "Beth and I are wearing the exact same pair of Nike Joyrides. I knew I shouldn't have told you about the mark-down. And why did you have to get them in bright pink like me? People are noticing."

Beth: "I hardly think the townsfolk of Comfort Bay are concerned with our choice of footwear."

Hannah: "I agree. I'm sure there's a more logical explanation."

Me: "Such as?"

Beth: "Maybe the world ended while we were up at Cuddle Cove Cliff, and everyone's been turned into zombies, and they're all sensing we're the only non-zombified humans left?"

We all swivel our heads in her direction.

Beth: "Sorry. I've been branching out and getting into sci-fi lit lately."

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