BEST SERVED COLD

16

Doing my makeup always takes the most time when I'm running late for something relatively important. Sitting in front of my mirror, I redo my eyeliner for the third time because I can't get my wings to match on both sides. Now, after almost half an hour, I'm finally satisfied with the result. I smile at my own reflection before I start putting on my fake lashes.

The thing is I don't know why I'm trying so hard anyway. Meeting with that Milo guy is mostly a burden that mama bestowed upon me. Does it really matter if I show up looking a little crazy? I ask myself these questions but It doesn't stop me from putting on a full face of makeup...I try to comfort myself by thinking that I'm dressing up for me and not to impress a guy.

After brushing my hair for the last time, I slip in my favorite pair of heels. The overall result is pretty satisfying. I like the new flowery dress I'm wearing. I spray some perfume on, grab a purse and finally decide to head out. I've already checked on Abel this morning and I'll certainly be back before long. He won't be needing me.

Milo already has a car but I'm going to pick him up. It was my idea to drive him around town and show him the few good places I know. He lives not too far away from my parents' neighborhood, the place where I lived all those years ago during middle school.

Driving through it brings back unwanted memories. I'm frustrated to see that nothing has changed here. It's like walking right through the past and it doesn't feel good. When I drive down the road right in front of the school, I try everything in my power to keep my eyes staring ahead. I'm going to sick if I have to look at that place again.

A few minutes later, I park under the apartment building where Milo lives. I don't text him immediately. I first take a few drags off of my vape to calm my nerves. Unfortunately, it seems like I will never get over my social anxiety. The thought of meeting someone new is terrifying.

I text him and wait. It doesn't take him long to pass through the automatic door of the building and walk to my car. I watch him approach, noting that he looks exactly the way I imagined him to be. He looks intelligent thanks to his frameless glasses and he's also wearing a polo shirt. He's rather good-looking too but I don't think he's very much my type.

I unlock the door to the passenger seat for him and he gets in, his mouth stretching into a toothy grin.

"Carla, is it?"

I nod before checking the hand he presents to me.

"It's a pleasure to meet you."

"Pleasure to meet you too...Sorry I'm a bit late by the way. I kind of lost track of time."

"Oh, that's fine. I'm just glad that you agreed to this."

"Of course."

I start to drive again, eager to get away from this neighborhood as soon as possible. The car radio transmits the voice of a news reporter. I vaguely listen to it.

"I hope you didn't have to cancel something else for this." Milo tells me with an apologetic look in his eyes. "I told my mom that she didn't need to bother anyone but she didn't listen."

"She must have a lot in common with my mom, then." I laugh. "No wonder they're friends...But they, it's no trouble at all. I think this is actually good for me. I rarely go out of my home so I guess this is the perfect opportunity to get some fresh air. Oh and I need to apologize too because I don't really know a lot of places. I don't make a great guide."

"I'm sure that whatever you show me today will be exceptional."

I glance at him quickly with a little smile tugging at the corner of my lips. I find that he's already watching me. He has kind eyes...They instantly make me feel more comfortable around him.