I pick up the piece of paper and unfold it to see all the information laid out for a pool party this weekend on it. Then in ink is a phone number. I fold it back up and shove it down into the front pocket of my bag before I pack up the rest of my stuff to head to my next class.

The rest of the day speeds by. A weird sense of dread hangs over me. I keep thinking back to my mom and our conversation this morning about Asher. I wonder how long he’ll be hanging around and if it’s going to make not only me, but my mom feel out of place. I know I have to just get through it. I can always go and hide in my room.

When classes are released for the day, I head toward the main front entrance of the school to catch my ride. Once again, I hear West calling my name. He jogs over to me. I’m not sure what his deal is, but something is off.

“You didn’t text me.”

“Was I supposed to?”

“I gave you my number.” He stares down at me as if I’m the strange one here. We’ve gone to school all year together and haven’t spoken. Now he decides to give me his number and expects me to reach out immediately. I shouldn’t be surprised by this. “Give me yours.” He pulls out his cell phone and waits. Feeling put on the spot and pretty sure people are watching, I quickly spout it off. Even though it’s the absolute last thing I want to do.

“I’ve gotta go. My ride is here.” I point at the vehicle waiting for me.

“I’ll text you.” He gives me another wink before turning to stroll off.

“Is he bothering you?” Grant asks when I slip into the passenger seat. I’d asked him to stop getting out and opening the door for me. It makes me feel more awkward than I already do. I hate the attention it draws to me. Or the perceived attention. Because most of the people at this school either have drivers or own fancy cars. So, it’s not out of the ordinary, but still, I don’t like it.

“I have no idea what that was,” I tell him honestly.

“You want to practice today?” he asks when we pull out of the parking lot.

“I need to study for one of my finals. It’s tomorrow.”

He nods. “Asher is home,” he says when the car grows quiet.

“I heard he’s home for his father’s party on Saturday.” My phone dings. I dig through my bag for it.

“He is. I think Tomas is trying to get him to stay longer.” Grant glances at my phone. “You got a boyfriend now?”