𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟐 | 𝙿𝚊𝚛𝚝𝚢 𝙿𝚘𝚘𝚙𝚎𝚛

"I can't believe you made me wait an hour for this dress," Nessa complained, her voice barely audibles over the loud music and chatters of students. "I thought we were going to be late."

It was a far cry from the usual baggy jeans and t-shirts I favored, but for tonight, I wanted to be a vision, a vision that would catch Ethan's eye. We contemplated about going to this party, but I thought that this is a big opportunity to get closer with Ethan. So, I convinced Nessa to go with me, and she thought it wouldn't be such a bad idea.

"It's perfect, isn't it?" I asked, my voice tinged with a hint of self-doubt. "I mean, it's not exactly my usual style, but I thought..." The dress, a shimmering emerald green, clung to my curves like a second skin, the delicate lace bodice wrapping my waist and the short skirt showing my flawless legs.

"It's perfect, Melody," Nessa reassured me with a genuine smile. "You look amazing. Ethan's going to be smitten."

I blushed, my heart fluttering at the thought. "I hope so."

The room was a riot of color and sound already packed with students swaying to the blasting beat of the DJ's music. The air buzzed with a contagious energy, a mix of anticipation and excitement that sent a thrill through my veins.

She led me through the crowd of students. "Here," Nessa said, stopping in front of a table laden with snacks and drinks.

A familiar voice cut through the din. "Hey, ladies! You guys made it!" Erick, walked towards us, his energy practically showing off.

"You look stunning, Melody," he said, tapping his chin with his finger as if he was thinking of something. "Aha!" he pointed at me, "You almost look like disgust from inside out!"

Nessa let out a chuckle as I squinted my eyes in confusion. He gives compliments in the weirdest way, but it's not like I'm not used to it. "Thanks," I mumbled, my eyes darting to Nessa, who was shaking her head at Erick's comment.

"So, what's the plan?" Erick asked, loud enough to outstand the blasting music. "Are you two going to play it cool or are you going to go all out?"

Nessa sighed. "We're going to play it cool, Erick. Actually, we have a plan, and it involves you." I picked up a glass of punch, its sweet, fruity aroma filling my senses.

"Me? What am I supposed to do?" Erick asked, his brow furrowed in confusion.

"You're going to help Melody get Ethan's attention," Nessa explained. "You know him better than anyone, so you're going to be our inside man."

Erick's eyes widened. "You want me to play matchmaker? You know I'm terrible at that."

"We know," Nessa said, her voice laced with a hint of amusement. "But you're the only one who can get Ethan to listen."

"Plus, you're practically my cousin too, only nonbiologically. So?" I interrupted, looking at Erick with a slight plea.

"Fine," Erick said, throwing his hands up in mock surrender. "I'm in. But don't blame me if it backfires. I'm not responsible for broken hearts."

"We wouldn't dream of it," Nessa said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Now, go find Ethan. We'll catch up with you later."

As Erick disappeared into the crowd, Nessa turned to me, her eyes filled with concern. "Are you sure about this, Melody? This whole matchmaking thing is a bit..."

"It's a chance," I interrupted, my voice firm.

"Alright, alright. But be careful. Don't get your hopes up too high."

"I won't," I promised, my eyes sparkling with determination. "I'm just going to focus on having a good time."

"Grab a drink. I'll be back in a minute." She turned to walk away after I nodded in agreement.