Miss Americana

Seven

Even though I really didn't want to look like a fan, I decided to go to the basketball game with my friends. I deserved to have a little fun and enjoy these last moments of senior year.

As I finished my makeup at my vanity, Natalia—my sister who had taken on a mom-like role—perched on the edge of the tub, watching me with a mix of curiosity and concern.

"What time are you going to be home?" she asked.

I shrugged, applying the final touches to my eyeliner. "Can I stay over at BK's? We're planning to go to a Pilates class tomorrow morning before school."

Natalia nodded, her eyes thoughtful. "How was Georgia?"

I glanced at her through the mirror. "I really liked it. I think it might be a good fit for me."

"I think so too," she said, standing up. "It'll give you a chance to grow into your own person. I can totally see you in those cute SEC game-day outfits, maybe joining a sorority, and thriving as a D1 athlete."

I didn't want to admit just how much I liked Georgia. It felt a bit overwhelming to accept it.

"Just think it through seriously, Tay," Natalia said as she headed out. "I'll be downstairs with Saf."

I kept my outfit simple—natural makeup, my curly hair down, a black sweatshirt, Lululemon leggings, and platform Uggs. Not exactly dressing to impress a high school gym crowd, but enough to blend in.

We gathered at Sydney's house before heading to Sweetgreen for a quick bite and some gossip.

"I'm throwing a kickback at my place after the game," BK announced, her excitement was clear.

Sydney perked up. "I love a good Bailey house kickback. Will your parents be around?"

BK shrugged. "They'll be there, but they're pretty chill."

Rylee twirled a strand of her perfectly highlighted blonde hair. "I need a drink after the fight I had with my mom about colleges. She wants me to follow in her footsteps so bad. I've already won the pageants, and now she wants me at Vanderbilt or Auburn."

Rylee was modest as always—national title winner, teen equivalent of Miss USA.

"Are you gonna cheer?" I asked her.

"Yeah, and probably rush too. You know my family," she replied with a wink.

"Might need your help if I go the Georgia route," I mentioned.

Rylee squealed. "You'd be the cutest SEC student-athlete, T! Just think about it!"

"I'm thinking," I said with a smile.

"Well, you guys can always come party with Mari and me at UMiami," BK offered.

"And I'll be in D.C. at Howard," Sydney added.

Senior year was bittersweet with everyone heading in different directions. After a quick drive to our school, we arrived at the gym. As I watched Kyler play, I wished he wasn't so good at basketball—it'd make it easier to hate on him.

"I'm inviting Kyler to the kickback," BK said, leaning in close.

I raised an eyebrow. "That's being pretty messy."

BK shrugged. "It's senior year. Let's go out with a bang. Just don't bring him into my room."

I pushed the thought of Kyler aside and headed for the concession stand.

"Tay!" someone called out.

I turned to see Miles, and my smile widened.

"Hi," I greeted, feeling a flutter in my chest.