“So, there’s a party tonight if you want to come,” Grayson said. He looked at me pointedly. “You can come, too.”

“Gee, thanks. That sounds swell,” I said. I couldn’t hide my sarcasm, nor did I want to. After spending ten minutes with the superstars of the Hawkeye football team, I was done. I needed a change. “I’m going to grab some coffee. Do you want to come with?” I asked Parker.

“What? You can’t do it by yourself?” Grayson pointed to a Starbucks across the food court. “It’s right there.”

“I thought my friend would like some fresh air since you seem hell-bent on breathing in her space.” I stood and waited for Parker to decide.

“Sure. I could use a pick-me-up,” Parker said. We crossed the food court. “I’m sorry. I don’t know why everyone is acting like that,” she said.

I could tell she wanted to touch me, but all eyes were on us. I could feel my anger ramping up. I hoped Parker would come to terms with her sexuality soon. Her parents were homophobic. Her church was homophobic. I felt like I was fighting a losing battle some days. Today was one of those days.

“I know it’s hard for you and I’m really trying, but your friends are different than what I’m used to,” I said.

“I know.” Her shoulders slumped.

I wanted to hug her, but I knew the rules. “I’m sure you will find your people, but I just don’t think they are them. And what’s up with Grayson hitting on you?”

We stepped up to the counter and Parker didn’t answer my question.

“Can I take your order? Oh, hey. Parker, right?” The barista was friendly. There was a rainbow bracelet on her left wrist.

Parker smiled. “Hi, Brianna. Yeah, Parker. This is my friend Sutton from Oak Grove.”

“Hi, Sutton. Welcome to suburban hell. Can I get you something?”

“One coffee with two cane sugars and two creams, and one coffee with hazelnut syrup,” I said.

“Coming right up,” Brianna said.

Parker and I moved to the side. “She’s nice. Why can’t you pick somebody like that to be friends with?”

Parker folded her arms. When she did that, I knew an argument was coming. “I’m trying to fit in. This is my third high school. Third. I have no long-term friends because my dad keeps getting relocated. If I don’t stay friends with those cheerleaders, they can get me kicked off the team. Staying on their good side is the easiest way to get through senior year.”

I couldn’t help myself. I put my hands on her shoulders. I was careful to keep my hands loose so it looked like I was consoling her. “I get it. I’m just saying that it’s hard for me, too.”