Page 28 of Just Friends

My shoulders slump as I watch her pull out of the parking lot. I’ve never felt so fucking defeated, and I don’t know why I’mthisbothered. She’s gone on a few dates before, but something doesn’t seem right with this one.

It’s all fun and games, dating around in college … until it’s your best friend doing it.

My phone beeps with a text message from the chick I was talking with at the party. After Carolina left, I went back in for five minutes before bailing. Clarissa stopped me before I did, and we exchanged numbers.

Clarissa: Hey, want to get together? I’m still salty about you leaving the party early.

Me: Nah, not today. Rain check?

Clarissa: Rain check. Let me know if you change your mind.

I need to be available in case Carolina A.) calls me, needing a ride or to be saved or for me to beat up the dude, or B.) makes it back to her dorm, safe and sound.

When I get back to my dorm, I order a pizza, turn on the TV, flip through channels, and decide on20/20.It’s Friday night, and I don’t give two shits about being at a party. I give all the shits about wanting to be with Carolina. I can’t stop myself from texting her.

Me: On a scale of 1–10, how lame is your date?

No answer. I wait fifteen minutes and text again.

Me: You must’ve fallen asleep because he’s lame AF. I’ll call you in 10 to wake you up.

She texts back a minute later.

The Smartest and Coolest Girl in the World: I can’t text. It’s rude!

Me: Sure you can. I do it all the time.

The pizza I ordered arrives, and I walk down to the lobby to grab it. I text her a picture of it as soon as I’m back in my room. Chicken and pepperoni—her favorite.

Me: You’re really turning down this? Yum, yum. I won’t save you any.

No response.

I eat my pizza, watch a few shows, and text her an hour later.

Me: The streetlights are about to come on. I expect you to be home, or you’re grounded.

The Smartest and Coolest Girl in the World: You’re going to ruin my date!

Me: That’s my mission.

The Smartest and Coolest Girl in the World: Officially signing off.

Me: Officially waiting for you to realize the date is a bust.

Two hours later.

The Smartest and Coolest Girl in the World: Home, Daddy.

Swear to God, my heartbeat lowers a good twelve beats.Thank God.

Me: I might have to change my stance on that word. I like it from you.

The Smartest and Coolest Girl in the World: You’re nuts.

Me: Get some rest. You’re mine tomorrow.

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