𝐬𝐚𝐲 𝐝𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐠𝐨, 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐞𝐫

𝟏𝟎: 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞

"You told him you loved him?!"

Elizabeth had gathered her friends in the school library during study hall to share what had happened the previous night. After Cole brought Elizabeth to his house for the party, they barely spoke to each other. Lately, communication had been lacking between them, creating a tense atmosphere that neither of them seemed to know how to resolve.

"Well, it was true. I did love him," Elizabeth admitted. "Do you still?" Jackie asked.

Elizabeth sighed, her thoughts conflicted. "No...yes...I don't know," she groaned, resting her head on the table. Grace offered a comforting pat on her back.

"Things are just complicated with him," Elizabeth continued. "Have you spoken to him since?" Skylar asked. Elizabeth shook her head.

"So, what happened after you confessed your feelings?" Jackie asked.

Elizabeth lifted her head and sighed. "I just walked back to the truck without saying a word. He didn't say anything either, no reaction at all," she explained.

"You didn't react when he confessed either," Skylar noted. "That doesn't count; he was drunk," Elizabeth replied.

"Oh my god, I can't stand you and Cole," Grace exclaimed. "You're obviously in love with each other, but too scared to do anything about it."

"I just need a distraction," Elizabeth said.

"How about we go to Mountain View after school?" Grace suggested. "Sounds good to me," Skylar agreed.

"What's Mountain View?" Jackie asked.

"Seriously? How long have you lived here and you still don't know what Mountain View is?" Grace exclaimed. "The Walters need to up their hosting game."

Elizabeth chuckled. "It's an arcade with bowling, food, games, and laser tag. The best place in Silver Falls! I'm surprised the boys never mentioned it."

"It's super fun," Skylar added.

"Then count me in," Jackie said.

"Now, back to Cole," Grace turned to Elizabeth.

Elizabeth groaned. "I don't want to hear the name Cole Walter today. I just want to relax and enjoy the arcade with my friends. Boy drama gives me headaches."

"Alright, no more talking about Cole or boys," Grace said. "Thank you," Elizabeth replied.

Elizabeth was determined to make today a relaxing day, focusing on spending time with her best friends. She hoped to clear her mind of Cole and the events of the previous night, but his confession lingered in her thoughts. She had found closure but now wasn't sure what to do with it.

__

Elizabeth and Jackie walked through the hallway after the school day ended. They had just put their books away and were heading to meet Grace and Skylar at Elizabeth's car.

"Hey, you know what would be fun?" Jackie said, turning to Elizabeth. "What?" Elizabeth asked, a smile playing on her lips.

"Kathrine is getting an award for being the best veterinarian in the area, and there's a ceremony on Saturday. You should come," Jackie suggested.

"Really? Do you think Kathrine would be okay with that?" Elizabeth asked.

"I can ask her, but I don't see why not," Jackie replied.

Elizabeth wanted to attend, but there was one problem: Cole. He would be there. Was she ready to face him? She wasn't sure.

"If you're worried about Cole, don't be. It'll be fine, I promise," Jackie reassured her, almost as if she could read Elizabeth's mind.