Crystal's Heart

XXIV. Its because I like you

Crystal's POV:

It's not like I like Ricardo that way.

I mean, he's cute, and there's a high probability he'll grow up to be a very attractive man.

But it's not like I like him that way.

I mean, I can tolerate being with him, hanging out with him, and kissing him.

But that doesn't mean I like him.

I straighten out the dress and exhale softly. Carefully, I move the hair away from my face and make sure I don't mess up what the hairstylist did earlier. I got a haircut, and it looks cute. It's not from my typical hair stylist, but it's not like I can fly to New York and back in time for our date.

Yes, I agreed on a date with Ricardo.

Why not?

I'd date me.

My phone buzzes, and I look down.

Spaghetti: I'm out back.

My face scrunches.

This date is already horrible.

He's supposed to be here with flowers and all that, but instead, he's standing next to the dump with no flowers.

I rolled on my thigh-high leggings and pulled on the boots, "You better not take me back to the hood," I grumbled before putting on the coat.

When I was perfect and ready, I made my way out. Down the hall, I spot Samuel.

"Hey-"

"No!" Samuel suddenly screamed, his back pinned against the door. "I mean, "Hey."

I stepped forward when I noticed a bruise on his cheek. "What happened to your face?" I asked.

"I fell on a door knob."

I crossed my arms, "Seriously?"

"Okay, you got me. Your boyfriend punched me for almost killing you."

I scoffed, "He's not my boyfriend."

Samuel nodded, "Sure he isn't." He opened his room door, "Anyways-" He closed the door.

I don't blame him for being a bit grumpy towards me. That bruise looks like it hurts.

I walked towards the elevator, and down I went. The lower the numbers got, the more anxious I got. I don't know why I'm anxious, though. I mean, Ricardo and I went out plenty of times before. This is another one of those times.

My fingernails went into my mouth. "No!" I screamed. I had my nails done not too long ago; there's no way I'm ruining them.

The elevator doors opened, and I came face to face with Ahmend and Josh.

Shit.

Josh's smile disappeared, "Where are you heading?"

I walked out of the elevator and into the lobby. "Out."

Ahmend smiles wildly while wiggling his eyebrows.

"Out where?"

"Outside," I responded. "Well, toodaloo!"

When Ahmend put his hands over his neck and humped the air, I gave him the middle finger. Josh turned around, and he immediately stopped. I'm not sure why he hasn't told Josh, but I'd like to keep it that way.

Inside the car, I spotted Ricardo with a cigarette between his lips.

That would explain why his mouth tastes smokey sometimes.