Wild Heart | Jiara

Chapter 4

It's Thursday, the day before the party, and Pope has managed to convince me that I shouldn't go shopping. Part of me is convinced he's so against it because I would make him try on some things as well. I only let him talk me out of it because I found something in my closet two days prior that would work. We're in his room hanging out because I don't feel like going anywhere right now. I'm laying on his bed, scrolling through Instagram while he's looking at something on his computer. Ever since my conversation with JJ at the beach, he's been more active on his Instagram page. He's been watching my stories and commented on the picture I posted yesterday. I smile as I go and look at the comment he left again. It's just two heart eye emojis but, it's cute. I decide to snap a few selfies and post the best looking one on my Instagram story.

"Are you sure you still want to go to that party tomorrow?" Pope turns and asks me.

"Yes," I smile at him, "I'm really excited about it honestly."

"Does this have anything to do with JJ?"

"No, I was looking forward to it before I even found out he was coming."

"Why don't I believe you?"

"Pope, stop. You should be excited too. Maybe you'll meet someone at the party."

"I'm not interested in some summer fling. I already have my eyes on someone."

I instantly perk up. "Who? Tell me."

He turns back to his computer. "I'll tell you in time."

"Whatever. Can I come over before the party tomorrow and help you choose an outfit?"

"You don't think I'm capable of dressing myself?"

"Of course, you are. I just want to make sure you look nice, maybe even hot?"

He turns around and smirks at me. "So, you think I'm hot huh?"

I laugh. "I've always thought you were good looking Pope. It just wouldn't hurt to look extra snazzy for the party."

"Well, if you insist, I'll let you pick out my outfit."

"Perfect. It's going to be such a great night." I get up and pull a chair next to Pope. "Let's take some selfies." I take some pictures of us and post some on my story. I tell him I'm going downstairs for snacks and a notification pops up when I make it to the fridge. I see that JJ has replied to one of my stories. I click on the notification and see that it's one of the selfies I took earlier. He responded with a heart eye emoji, and I send back a kissy face emoji. I get two water bottles out of the fridge and grab two granola bars from the cabinet. I head back upstairs to Pope's room. "I come bearing gifts." I hand Pope his snack and then sit down back on his bed to eat mine. "What are you looking at on your computer?"

"I'm looking for some new workout routines. You want to join one of my workouts sometime?"

"A chance to get all sweaty with you... count me in." He looks at me and I laugh.

"You're weirdly cheerful today."

"Would you prefer if I was upset?" I inquire with raised brows.

"No, I like it. I'm just curious as to the cause."

"It doesn't matter. Just be happy with me."

"I'm always happy when I'm around you."

"Aww Pope. You're so sweet, why hasn't someone snatched you up yet?"