Bubble Tea

plot twist pt. 3

Song for the chapter: Blinding Lights by The Weeknd

Issa's POV :

As we approached the party, I felt a mixture of excitement and dread. I wore a pretty black skirt and a blue corset top, my straight hair falling perfectly around my shoulders. Nicoli looked me up and down, a satisfied smile spreading across his face.

"You look incredibly sexy babygirl," he said, his voice low and seductive. "You're exactly the girlfriend I've always wanted."

I blushed at his compliment, trying to ignore the underlying tension of the night's plan. We stepped inside, greeted by the pulsating music and the vibrant energy of the party. The room was filled with many unfamiliar faces but a few familiar ones of Andres, Audrey, Gia, Jade, Katy, Jeremiah, Edvin, Maddy, Stacy, Neo, Harley, and Gunnar too.

Before I could head over to Maddy, who was waving enthusiastically at me, Nicoli pulled me close, his lips brushing against my ear. "Don't forget the plan for tonight," he whispered, his tone reminding me of the burden I carried.

I nodded, feeling a lump form in my throat, then pulled away and hurried over to Maddy. She enveloped me in a warm hug, her happiness infectious.

"Issa babydoll! You look amazing!" Maddy exclaimed, stepping back to take in my outfit. "I love your top. Isn't it from MiuMiu?"

I laughed, feeling a bit lighter. "Thanks, Maddy! Yea it is, you have such a keen eye for fashion. You look gorgeous too, as always. And your dress-stunning!"

Stacy joined us, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Issa, you always know how to make an entrance. And Maddy, you're glowing tonight! What's your secret?"

Maddy laughed, glancing over at Jeremiah."It might have something to do with that guy over there. I've been thinking about this night with him all day!"

Me and Stacy both smiled at her, I commented, "ahh so are you guys doing "IT" tonight?" She laughed and her laughter said it all. "And how about you, Stacy? Anyone special catching your eye tonight?"

Stacy shrugged with a playful smile. "Just enjoying the night with my girls. Speaking of which, can we take a moment to appreciate how good you and Nicoli look together? You're definitely the "IT" couple of the night."

I smiled, but the compliment felt heavy with the knowledge of what I was supposed to do. We clinked our glasses together, cheering and drinking, trying to push the dark thoughts away.

As the night progressed, we danced and laughed, the alcohol loosening our inhibitions.

"Remember that time in math class when Mr. Anderson tripped over the projector cord?" Maddy said, giggling. "He tried to play it off, but we all saw."

"Oh my God, yes!" Stacy added, laughing. "And he blamed it on the custodian for 'improperly securing the equipment.'"

We all burst out laughing, the memory vivid in our minds. The conversations flowed easily, a testament to our deep friendship. Despite the cloud hanging over me, I felt grateful for these moments of genuine connection.

"Issa, how are things with Nicoli?" Maddy asked, her tone curious. "You two seem really close lately."

I hesitated, forcing a smile. "Yeah, we're good. He's been really sweet to me."

Stacy raised an eyebrow. "He better be. You deserve the best, Issa."

I nodded, the weight of their support and expectations adding to my internal conflict. As we continued to enjoy the night, I kept glancing at Nicoli, wondering how I would get through the rest of the evening.