The Decuplets

Oh, Zach! Awkward!

Ella

As the sun beamed through the window, my head pounded harshly. Last night was fucking insane.

I turned to see Scarlett still passed out and slowly crept out of bed. Tip-toeing in hopes of not waking her up, being I was pretty positive she was exhausted, I slowly turned the doorknob and walked out the room.

I walked downstairs in my shorts and tank top, the cool breeze piercing my skin.

I rubbed my eyes as I entered the kitchen, heading straight to the fridge for a bottle of water.

"You probably want on of these," a voice spoke, a pill bottle rattling as they shook it.

"Oh," I blushed, "thanks."

It was Zach. This scene was familiar. 

I popped the Advil in my mouth, swishing it down with water.

"Ella, can we talk?" He asked, which I knew was coming sooner or later.

I remembered last night perfectly despite the state I was in. I remember feeling sad, embarrassed, annoyed, and hopeful upon many other things.

Nodding, I sat down in an island chair. He fixed his hair as I got comfortable. 

"About last night, I know you-," he began, but I stopped him right there, taking a deep breath.

"Let's just forget about it, okay," I sighed, preparing to elaborate, "I shouldn't have came on that strongly."

I mumbled the last part. "I'm so embarrassed."

"Oh, no, yeah," he cleared his throat, "that's what I, uh, that's what I was going to say."

He smiled, but it looked forced. He looked hurt.

I returned his smile nonetheless, hiding the fact that I too was upset.

I wanted to kiss him and know that I wouldn't have regretted it. I guess, on the bright side, now he knows. And it's not like he turned me down for any reason other than me being drunk. I should be grateful he's respectful, I reminded myself.

My heart still felt heavy, though. It felt like little ten year old me got so close to her dream just to have the carpet ripped out from under her feet. I hoped a moment would come like that again, but when I was sober. Drunk me may be more confident, but Zach doesn't drink.

I feel more secure knowing he didn't reject me, which I should know being many people have told me he likes me, but it's just nerve wracking. I have scored my crush of six years. It's almost unbelievable to say aloud.

"I'm going to go hop in the shower," Zach dismissed himself, placing his hand on my shoulder as he exited. His touch felt warm, calming.

I lowered my head into my arms as I sat at the island. I wish we had kissed so badly, but I know we made the right choice.