Page 46 of Drew
“But why would he be interested inmethat way?”
There. I’ve finally voiced my biggest fear aloud.
I close my eyes for a moment as the next words tumble out of my mouth. “I mean, he can have anyone he wants. Why me?”
“Why not you?” As I finally open my eyes, I see Sydney shaking her head. “You’re smart, funny, beautiful…”
Chloe cuts her off, “Trust me. I’ve seen the way he looks at you; it’s not in a friend-zone way, Abs. I’d be willing to bet he’d like something more.”
“He says he never dates during the season,” I quickly spew out. “And he’s made this weird comment more than once about being glad he’s chosen me for a lab partner.” Suddenly, I gasp at the realization. Shit. “You don’t think he’s going to turn out like the douche canoe, do you?”
“I’m pretty sure no one is like douche canoe.” Sydney shakes her head in laughter. “Drew pulls his weight in class, right?”
Rolling my eyes at the effort he’s gone to do his share, I know without a doubt he’s nothing like my ex. “Yes. Drew does. In fact, I’ve never had a better lab partner. So… he’s definitely not like him.”
“Thank God!” Chloe shouts out to the room and flops back on the couch.
“No kidding.” Sydney laughs at Chloe’s theatrics.
“Seriously, Abs. You just need to relax and let whatever’s supposed to happen between the two of you, happen. And for God’s sake, just tell the guy you like him.”
I shake my head dismissively as I contemplate their points.
Before I can say anything further, Sydney interrupts my thoughts.
“Well…” Sydney draws out. “Since he’s on a road trip and won’t be home until late tomorrow, let’s go out tomorrow night to get your mind off things. It’s my first Saturday off since your birthday, and I want to dance. What do you say?” Sydney looks to both of us before continuing. “Wanna go?”
There’s something about the way Sydney invites us that makes me think there’s more going on. Usually, she’s the last person who’d be at a bar on her night off. Maybe she’s had a stressful week and just wants to let off steam. I keep my opinions to myself, knowing Sydney will reveal what’s bothering her in her own due time.
Chloe never being one to turn down a night out with the girls, shouts, “I know just the place.”
Even though theplace is crowded for a Saturday night, Chloe, Sydney, and I don’t have to wait long. Chloe marches us to the front of the line, and we’re let in within minutes. Chloe and I spot a table against the wall, while Syd makes a beeline to the bar. She returns with shots for all of us. Apparently, Syd’s not messing around when it comes to letting loose. Chloe and I each look at each other, eyebrows raised before looking back at the shots. Hopefully, the alcohol will loosen Sydney’s lips, and she’ll reveal what’s bothering her. Because this is unusual, even for her.
On the outside, Sydney looks as if she’s having the time of her life. “These are B-52s. Let’s drink up, ladies.” She hands us each a shot glass, then lifts hers to the air. Chloe and I quickly join her for a toast. “Here’s to taking what we want and never settling for less.” The look of determination in Sydney’s eyes tells a different story but for now, she throws back her drink like a pro, and Chloe and I do the same.
Having never taken a shot before, I’m surprised I’m able to drink it all at once. It tastes better than expected as the alcohol flows down my throat. I might just have to try another one before the night’s through.
Before either Chloe or I set our glasses on the table, Sydney heads back to the bar for more drinks. I give Chloe an apprehensive look, but when Sydney returns with a smile on her face and says, “I couldn’t carry both the drinks and the shots. Here… I got us all White Russians. Be sure you stick with Kahlua tonight, or you’ll regret it in the morning.”
“Everything all right?” I ask Sydney as I watch for her tells. She and I can’t hide much from each other, and if something is bothering her, I’ll know.
“I just need to unwind. It’s been a long week, and I want to shake my ass on the dance floor. Drink up, so we can get out there.”
We each reach for our drinks from Sydney, and I do as I’m told. It goes down easy. Maybe too easy, and I realize… I need to pace myself it we’re staying out all night.
Just as we’re finishing our drinks, my phone buzzes in my pocket. I pull it out to check my notifications. I can’t help the smile that spreads across my face when I see Drew’s name flash across the screen. Is he back in town?
Of course, my two best friends notice and laugh at me.
“Guuurrrlll,” Chloe drags out. “You have it so bad.” I hear as I rush to unlock my phone.
Drew: Just got back, you busy?
“It’s Drew. He wants to know what I’m doing!” I yell above the music to Chloe and Syd, in hopes that they won’t mind my answering his text.
Before I can type a reply, Chloe grabs my phone and quickly types something into it. She waits for a reply then types something again. Just as I reach to get it back, she shoves my phone down her bra, pivots, and leaves for the dance floor.
Not knowing what she has said, I panic. She could’ve told him to get lost, or worse, that I like him. Total honesty, both options are equally horrifying at this moment.
