Chapter Seven: The Debut (Part 1)

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POV: Maya 


I've been friendzoned by my boyfriend.

Also, his mom is a complete psycho.

I mean, come on, "Love has nothing to do with marriage," sounds like something an evil villain would say. Not the mother of my love interest slash fake fiance.

What's worse, he didn't even seem surprised when she said it.

I can't imagine growing up with someone like that. Someone so cold and uncaring. What would it have been like? My mother left when I was young, and though my father is sometimes lacking when it comes to the 'emotional support' gene, I know that he cares.

Henry's mom, on the other hand, seems to be completely unconcerned with what her son wants. That can't be good for one's mental development.

"Wait."

Henry's voice stops me in my tracks, halfway to the guest room where I spent last night alone.

"Let me do something nice for you."

I turn to face him in surprise. He looks so handsome it's difficult for me not to agree right then and there.

His auburn hair is standing up wildly from where he ran his fingers through it, and he's staring intensely back at me. He's still wearing his glasses, and I can't help but think he looks sort of like a sexy librarian at the moment.

What does he have in store for me now?

Somehow I doubt it's another round on the couch.

My cheeks burn at the memory.

"What do you mean?"

He smiles gently.

"If we're going to the Ironside Club next Friday, we'll need to get you something to wear. Might as well make a day of it. I can show you the city."

My smile grows into a full fledged grin.

"Are you paying?" I tease.

"Of course."

"But what about all the clothes in the closet? Can't I wear this?"

I gesture to the blue blouse I picked out this morning. It's loose fitting and comfortable, but still looks classy in my opinion. I've paired it with white dress pants.

"The dress code is black tie, and it's strictly enforced."

"Oh."

I'm too embarrassed to admit I don't even know what black tie means.

"Meaning you'll need a gown."

"Right. What are you wearing?"

He grins. "A tux, of course."

Is he teasing me?

"Sorry," I stammer, "I've never been to something like this before."

"Don't be sorry. It's cute."

Cute.

There he goes again, saying things to make my heart flutter out of control when we're meant to be friends.

If he knew I was interested in him I suspect he'd call the whole thing off. As far as I can tell, he believed me when I said last night was a casual fling, no emotions involved.

Does heart-fluttering count as an emotion?

Unfortunately, I'm thinking yes.

"There's a popular tourist spot a few blocks from here. They serve french toast and pancakes, if you'd like to start there. I know you like them."

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