Fake Dating The Enemy

15

Elizabeth

We finally get off the ferris wheel, and I start walking quickly. I need to stay a good distance away from Thomas. Being close to him makes me feel things I shouldn't be feeling.

"Hey, I'm so glad you guys made it down." Conrad says, engulfing me in a hug. I crash my lips to his, trying to distract myself from the moment I had with Thomas.

I bury my face in his chest, and he rubs his hand over my back. I can't believe I let myself get in that situation with Thomas. How could I be so stupid?

"So, who's hungry? I'm dying for some cheese fries." Thomas says, trying to change the subject.

"Yeah, I could eat." Conrad says, lifting my chin to look at him. "How about you, beautiful? You hungry?"

"Yeah, I guess I could eat too." Conrad slips his hand in mine.

I take a glance back at Thomas, his eyes meeting mine. I quickly look away, clinging to Conrad. He lets go of my hand, wrapping his arm around my waist, instead. He's such a great guy. So, why is my head focused elsewhere?

*

We're getting ready to leave when Conrad turns towards me.

"I'll go get the car." He kisses me softly and walks off.

"I'm sorry." Thomas says. I look at him. "For earlier. On the ferris wheel. I shouldn't have been so nosy."

"Thomas-"

"No, you don't have to say anything. I know I crossed a line, and I'm sorry. I guess I just can't help myself around you." He steps forward, taking my hand and kissing it softly. "Conrad is a great guy. I'm happy for you." With that, he walks away.

My heart is pounding, and I'm convinced it's going to jump out of my chest. It's not fair. Why does he have this effect on me? And why does Conrad not?

Conrad pulls up, and I walk over to get in. I look at him and lean over to kiss him. His hand reaches up to cup my face, and he smiles against my lips.

"Someone's extra affectionate today." He says, pecking my lips once more. "Not that I'm complaining." I smile at him before sitting back in my seat. "You alright? I'm sure that being stuck on the ferris wheel with him must've been terrifying."

"What part? Being up there or being stuck with him?" I ask, sarcastically.

"You know I didn't mean it like that." He says, giving me a look.

"Yeah, sure."

"What's going on with you?"

"Nothing. Forget it." He sighs, heavily. "You still staying the night?" I ask.

"I think it's better if I just go home." Oh.

"Right. Yeah, that's fine." We get back to my house, and I get out without saying anything.

"Elizabeth." He calls, getting out of the car. "I don't want to fight with you."

"This isn't a fight."

"Could've fooled me." He says, and I rake my hand through my hair.

"See, this is the problem. You always do this."