Tethered

Chapter Ten

1

Sarah sat on the couch next to Cynthia, watching. Everyone was engrossed in conversations, gathered in small groups of threes or fours, but every now and then, boys could leer at her—seemingly measuring her up and down, eying her every curve and line. She felt soaked.

But she was interested in the teenagers' conversations. They spoke with such surety, such energy, such enthusiasm and she envied that. If only she could find the courage to do that—to talk freely, to express herself.

The laughs they produced were rich and warm. She wondered if it was because of the classic party that everyone wanted to be at their best behaviors or try to look classy, too. Nevertheless, she loved the vibe, except for the eyes that frequently landed on her, making her feel exposed.

Cynthia looked mostly happy—laughing and giggling. She was talking in a hushed tone, her face inches away from John. They seemed to be enjoying each other's company.

Gary was leaning against the glass counter where booze, and other drinks were placed. He had a glass in his hand, sipping and staring at people like an owl through his glasses. His eyes met Sarah's and Sarah immediately looked away.

Did she really belong here? She wondered. She didn't feel like she did. Everyone looked happy, energized, and enjoying the moment. Someone brought her a drink, pushing it to her face. She drew back and looked up. A young man in a blue suit smiled down at her. She tried to smile, then touched Cynthia.

"Enjoy this moment, Sarah", Cynthia whispered in her ear. "You've gone through a lot and this is your moment. Just do it. Drink." Then, she kissed Sarah on the cheek.

Odd. Sarah wasn't expecting that. With a huge sigh, she took the glass.

"You're very beautiful", the guy in the blue suit said, smiling. "I'm Alex."

Sarah's heart jumped. Is this how a conversation start? She was nervous.

"S-Sarah", she said, then cleared her throat and sipped from the drink. Bitter. She recoiled at the taste.

"That's a lovely name", he said. "I wonder if..."

"Dude", Gary interrupted, his hands stuffed in his pockets. "Step back."

Alex frowned, his lips wanting to stretch into a smile at the same time. "What's your problem, man?"

"She's with me", Gary cautioned, adjusting his glasses, then putting his hand back in his pocket. In one gulp, Sarah emptied the glass. A burning sensation rose at the back of her throat, making her flinch.

"Listen, man, I..."

"What?" Gary snapped, taking his hands out again. Sarah stared at him, somehow...amused. "Just walk away, dude. She's with me."

"Sarah", Alex said, wanting to take Sarah's hand. Gary shoved his hand away.

"You can't lure her into your trap with your fancy suit and charming face", Gary spat. "Beat it, and leave her alone."

"Gary", Cynthia joined in. "Please, just leave Sarah alone for now. She's okay. Alex's not a predator."

"You aren't my bodyguard, Gary", Sarah said. She was starting to feel really good. Whatever it was she'd drunk made her feel sane. She snatched Cynthia's glass, and emptied it.

"Stop it, Sarah", Gary said. "It's not..."

"Gary." Cynthia eyed him, furiously. Gary sighed, looking both hurt and rejected. He walked away, and leaned at the counter again.