The Time Weaver

Part 9 - Party! As in Party?

The week had been a whirlwind since Eric and I started working together on our assignment. Despite my reservations, there was an undeniable connection between us that I couldn't ignore. As Friday afternoon rolled around, I found myself in the campus cafeteria with Rebecca and Sarah, chatting and laughing over our lunch.

Across the room, I noticed Eric sitting with his friends, engrossed in what seemed like an animated discussion. My heart skipped a beat as our eyes met briefly before I quickly looked away, trying to steady my nerves.

"So, are you all coming to Edward's party tomorrow?" Eric's voice carried over to our table, drawing my attention back to him and his friends. They were making plans, excitement evident in their gestures and laughter.

"Yeah, definitely," Jack replied enthusiastically. "It's going to be epic. You in, Eric?"

Eric hesitated for a moment, and then I saw him stand up, his gaze fixed on me as he made his way over to where we were sitting. My pulse quickened, uncertainty swirling within me.

"Hazel," Eric said, his voice a mix of nervousness and determination. "I was wondering if you'd like to come to Edward's party with me tomorrow?"

His question caught me off guard, and I hesitated, searching for the right words. "Eric, I appreciate the invitation, but I'm not sure if..."

Before I could finish, Eric's eagerness cut through my uncertainty. "Come on, Hazel. It'll be fun. Just think of it as a chance to hang out outside of class."

I bit my lip, torn between wanting to say yes and the fear of repeating past mistakes. "I... I don't know, Eric. Maybe it's not such a good idea..."

Just as Eric was about to insist, Rebecca suddenly appeared beside him, her presence both surprising and unwelcome. She glanced between Eric and me with a knowing smile.

"Hey, Eric," Rebecca said casually. "Are you asking Hazel to the party?"

Eric looked at Rebecca, then back at me, his expression hopeful yet unsure. "Yeah, I thought it would be nice if she came."

Rebecca's smile widened as she turned to Eric. "Well, I was actually hoping you'd go with me, Eric. You know, as friends."

Eric's hesitation was palpable, and I watched with a sinking feeling as he glanced back at me. Rebecca was known for her charm and flirtatious nature, and a pang of jealousy shot through me despite my efforts to stay composed.

"I..." Eric began, clearly torn between Rebecca's sudden proposition and our earlier conversation.

Rebecca leaned in closer to Eric, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "It'll be fun, Eric. Just us, enjoying the party together."

I felt a knot form in my stomach as I waited for Eric's response. His gaze flickered between Rebecca and me, uncertainty clouding his features.

Then, unexpectedly, I found myself blurting out, "Yes, Eric. I'll go with you."

Surprised by my own words, I met Eric's eyes, trying to gauge his reaction. His expression softened with relief and gratitude, but I couldn't shake the unease gnawing at me.

"Great," Eric said finally, his voice tinged with relief. "I'll pick you up tomorrow at 7, Hazel."

I nodded numbly, feeling a mix of conflicting emotions. As Rebecca flashed me a triumphant smile before walking away with Eric, I couldn't help but wonder if I had made the right choice. Was this jealousy speaking, or was there something deeper at play between Eric and me?

Turning back to Jess, who was watching the scene unfold with concern, I forced a smile. "I guess I'm going to the party after all."

Jess squeezed my hand gently. "Hazel, are you sure about this?"

I nodded, though uncertainty gnawed at me. "I think so. I just need to figure things out."