At the Right Time

Chapter Seven

Rylie ~ Six years ago

I've been living with the Rossi's for two months now. Christmas has come and gone, and New Year's Eve is here.

The plan to move out after last semester has been ditched, and now I think Rachel's mom is excited at the idea of me staying until I graduate.

I'm content here, despite the awkward run-ins with Maxwell.

We haven't spoken any more than necessary since I saw his bruises. I have the urge to check on him, especially when he's gone all weekend and comes back in a bad mood. But I refrain. He made it clear it's not something he wants to discuss.

Tonight, Mr. and Mrs. Rossi have left town for the holiday, trusting us three to not get into any trouble while they're gone.

We're going to a party.

Our entire high school has been buzzing with the details of this huge New Years party for the last month. It's rare to have a party during the week, but since we're all on break, it's about the only thing we've had to talk about on social media.

I'm ready to let loose a little, maybe even have a couple drinks. I'm not ready to third wheel Rachel and her boyfriend Jerrod.

Hopefully, there will be other girls that I'm aquatinted with also going.

We're getting ready now. Rachel has painted her face beautifully, finishing the look with bold, red lipstick.

She's in a sequined dress that hugs her tightly, making my ripped jeans and lacy long sleeve top look underdressed.

I did my makeup, nothing too bold, and I even twisted my hair into waves. That's enough. It isn't like I have anyone to kiss when midnight comes anyway.

"Jerrod is here!" Rachel practically squeals. "Let's go."

I grab my stuff and follow her down, noticing Maxwell's car isn't in the drive.

I idly wonder if he'll be there tonight, but it's an obvious answer. He's the most popular guy in our school, minus maybe the quarter back of the football team. He will be there, and I don't know why that makes my pulse flutter.

We arrive to the party and the lawn is overflowing with cars. Leslie Adams, a senior, is the one hosting. Her parents are out of town, or something, and all week long she's been bragging on Twitter.

Usually, the parties are for only upperclassmen, but tonight, the whole school was invited.

I see why.

The house is a mansion. It looks like a freaking castle.

Lights shine through most of the windows and I can hear the thumping music even out in the lawn.

People are spilling in and out, chattering and laughing loudly.

"Let's get drinks!" Rachel directs us all as we maneuver our way through a few rooms before we find the kitchen.

Red, green and blue lights dance across the kitchen and living room, seemingly dancing with the beat of the songs.

On the counter are various beers, bottles of every alcohol imaginable and several juices to mix with.

Hudson raised me to never accept an open drink, because, and I quote, "People are crazy, Rylie. If you're going to drink, make sure you're the only one who makes it and never leave it unattended."

Fair enough, I guess. So, I opt for the beer and pop the top myself, taking comfort in knowing there isn't anything in here that shouldn't be.

After grabbing our drinks, we find a little couch in the corner of the living room to sit while we get our buzz.