Under My Body

chapter three

    The next few days passed in a blur of routine. I tried to keep myself busy, spending time with Xavier and Penny. But even as she went about her day-to-day activities, thoughts of Asher continued to creep in, unbidden and persistent.

Xavier had a habit of springing plans on me at the last minute, and tonight was no different. He knocked on my door, casually leaning against the frame as he announced that we were going to a small gathering hosted by Dellana. Just five of us, hanging out, chilling, and probably drinking way too much alcohol.

"Get ready," he said like it was no big deal.

I sighed, rolling my eyes as I closed the door. He always did this—gave me no time to prepare, then expected me to be ready in record time. But I knew better by now. I grabbed my favourite flare jeans, the medium-washed ones that hugged my curves just right and flared out around my ankles. They were comfortable but still looked good enough to pass for an effort.

I paired them with a long-sleeved backless top, the fabric tight against my skin, accentuating the dip in my back. It was simple but sexy, something I could wear and still feel like myself. After putting on medium hoop earrings, I went for a light makeup look, just a bit of mascara, some soft red lipstick, and a touch of highlighter. My curly hair was already straightened, so all I had to do was brush it out, letting it fall over my shoulders in a sleek curtain.

As I looked in the mirror, I took a deep breath. "You look good," I told myself, offering a small smile. "Calm down. It's just a casual thing. Nothing to stress over. Just breathe."

But as I stepped out of my room, a knot tightened in my stomach. It wasn't the gathering itself that made me anxious—it was the idea of seeing Asher. I hadn't seen much of him since arriving for the vacation, and I wasn't sure what to expect tonight.

When we arrived at Dellana's place, the vibe was laid-back, just like Xavier had said. The others were already there, lounging around with drinks in hand. I stayed quiet, sipping on my drink as the conversation flowed around me. Everyone was talking and laughing, but my mind kept drifting back to Asher. He hadn't shown up yet, and neither had Brie-Ann. I couldn't help but wonder if they were together. The thought gnawed at me, making my drink taste a little less enjoyable.

An hour passed, and I was starting to think that maybe they weren't coming after all when the door finally opened. My heart skipped a beat as I looked up and saw Asher walk in. He was wearing sweatpants and a tight black shirt that clung to his broad shoulders and revealed a slight tummy. It wasn't the chiselled abs you'd see on a magazine cover, but it suited him. It made him look real, grounded. My heart fluttered at the sight of him, and I hated how easily he could make me feel like that with just his presence. I need to get a grip.

But then I saw Brie-Ann walk in behind him. She was stunning, as always—tall, skinny, with vibrant hair that framed her sharp features perfectly. She wore a tight, strapless green dress, her hair curled in waves, and bright red lipstick. She had that effortless beauty that made people like me feel like they were trying too hard. My heart sank a little, but I pushed the feeling aside, plastering a neutral expression on my face. Don't be like this, Vili.

Everyone greeted them, the room filling with energy as they joined the group. Brie-Ann's eyes flicked over to me, and she gave me a smirk that was anything but friendly. It was subtle, but I could feel the sting of it. I smiled back, forcing it to reach my eyes even though all I wanted to do was look away.

Dellana, ever the instigator, suddenly suggested we play a game of truth or dare. My heart started pounding immediately, a wave of anxiety crashing over me. "Fuck me," I muttered under my breath, hoping no one noticed.