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“We haven’t met him yet. First, he needs to go through our trials,” Mary says.

“You’ve been crushing on him for a while now.” I reach over to squeeze Gemma’s hand. “Just be careful, okay?”

She sighs, her eyes flicking to the movie playing in the background. “I really want this to work out. He’s the first guy in a long time that I feel good around.”

“That’s… you deserve a good guy, Gem. I’m happy for you.” Mary snuggles closer to us, clinking her glass with ours before taking a sip.

“What about you, Mar?” Gemma asks. “Any new prospects?”

Mary leans back against the pillows, swirling her margarita. “Well, there is this one guy I can’t stop thinking about lately…”

Gemma and I exchange a glance. “Connor?” we say in unison.

“He’s so hot.”

Gemma giggles. “Sounds like someone has a huge crush.”

“Shut up! I do not.” Mary throws a pillow at her. “Ugh. It’s probably just a fantasy. And it’s stupid to get attached to someone I can’t really have.”

I know all too well what it’s like to pine after someone who is out of reach.

“Why?” I ask gently.

Mary sighs, picking at a loose thread on the blanket. “ I mean, I’ve tried to catch his eye a few times, but he always looks away. It’s like he’s deliberately avoiding me. Like he can’t wait to be farther away from me. Very far.”

“That doesn’t mean he hates you, Mar. Maybe he’s shy,” I say.

“He’s an idiot who doesn’t realize what an amazing catch you are,” Gemma adds.

“I don’t know. It’s just a stupid girl crush.” Mary takes a long sip of her margarita, her shoulders slumping. “I mean, if he was interested, wouldn’t he at least try to talk to me? Wouldn’t he want to get to know me better?”

“Hey, don’t beat yourself up over this,” I say. “If he can’t see how incredible you are, that’s his loss.”

Gemma nods. “Totally. You’re a fucking catch, Mar. Any guy would be lucky to have you.”

Am I being a hypocrite? After all, don’t I constantly question Sebastian’s feelings, analyzing every interaction for hidden meanings?

I take a large gulp of my margarita.

“Thanks, guys,” Mary says softly. “I really thought there was something there, you know? But maybe I’m fooling myself.”

The night goes on in a blur of laughter, girl talk, and margaritas. We’re on our second rom-com now, some cheesy flick about a woman who falls for her best friend’s brother. The irony isn’t lost on me.

The credits roll, and I glance at my phone. Still no texts from Sebastian. I know he’s busy, but still, I can’t ignore the little twinge of disappointment.

“We should probably head home soon.” Gemma yawns, stretching her arms over her head. “I’m about ready to pass out.”

Mary nods, stifling a yawn. “Same. This was fun, though.”

I gather the empty popcorn bowls and margarita glasses. “Definitely. Thanks, Mar.”

We say our goodbyes, hugging Mary tightly before heading back to Gemma’s place. By the time we make it, Gemma and I stumble our way inside, giggling like schoolgirls as we try to keep quiet. I thought I didn’t drink that much, but it’s kicking in.

“Shh!” she stage-whispers. “We have to be quiet, or we’ll wake everyone.”

I nod, attempting to suppress my laughter as we tiptoe through the darkened hallway.

When we reach my room, she wraps her arms around me in a tight hug. “Thanks for joining us this weekend.”

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