Practically the entire school is up here in the stands. It shouldn’t surprise me when I catch a glimpse of Jessica a few rows in front of me, but it does. Remembering my drunken ridiculousness makes me ashamed. I owe her an apology. Before I have a chance to chicken out, I hop out of my seat and make my way to her.

“Ahhh, hi,” is my awkward introduction.

“Hey,” is her cool reply.

“I’m Elizabeth. I’m not sure if you remember me. We met at a party about two weeks ago. At the football house.” I’m fidgeting, dragging my hands through the strings of the pom-pom, trying to avoid eye contact.

“Oh, I remember you.”

Yep, she’s not a fan.

“Okay. Yeah, so I wanted to come over and say sorry.” I chance a look up at her to see surprise flash across her face. “I was really drunk and super obnoxious. I didn’t mean to be rude. With the whole Barbie thing.”

She cocks her head at me quizzically. Since I don’t know when to leave well enough alone, I let the word-vomit spew out, unhindered by good sense.

“It’s just that you’re so pretty. You know, tall. Blonde. Beautiful. You reminded me of a Barbie.” Her eyes narrow on me.

Shut up, Elizabeth. Quit while you’re behind.

“Not in a bad way. You’re not stupid or anything. I’m sure you’re super smart. Beautiful and smart. The whole package.”

Great, now she thinks you’re hitting on her.

“Okay, well. Anyway, sorry.” I turn to walk away, but only get a few steps before I find myself turning back to clarify, “Just so you know, I’m not hitting on you. I’m not gay.” Now people around us are staring.

Walk away, Elizabeth. Just walk away.

“Not that there’s anything wrong with being gay, I’m just not. I just think you’re pretty. And smart. And—”

“Elizabeth,” she cuts me off, holding up her hand. “You really don’t know when to quit, do you?” she asks with a smile. I nod, shrugging my shoulders in acknowledgment of my awkwardness. “Apology accepted.”

“Thanks, Jessie.” I give her a wide smile in return, genuinely relieved.

I finally listen to my brain and turn to walk away. I get a few more steps before she calls out to me one more time.

“Hey, nice shirt,” she adds with a nod.

“Thanks,” I reply, my cheeks burning.

I saunter back to my seat.

“Who’s that?” Devin asks as I sit back down, nodding to Jessie, who’s watching us with a smile.

Who’s a curious little cat now?

I can’t hide my surprise, knowing there’s only one reason he’d be asking. Not that I would blame him, Jessie’s stunning.

Yep, definitely have a girl crush.