𝐑𝐄𝐏𝐔𝐓𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍, benj nielsen x reader

4 | interrupted intentions

Y/N

-

A week and three days had elapsed since I first began covertly collaborating with Benj. In that time, our relationship had evolved from mere acquaintance to something more akin to friendship—or at least a semblance of it. Guilt had been my constant companion, a shadow lurking behind my indifference to his presence in the hallways and classrooms.

Yet, today, my preoccupation with Benj was eclipsed by the prospect of Katrina's party. Renowned for hosting the most spectacular social gatherings, Katrina's soiree promised to be a spectacle, and I was finally on the guest list.

My friend Alexia was perched on the edge of my bed, absorbed in her phone as I meticulously applied my makeup. My eyeliner was expertly drawn, black eyeshadow tracing the waterline of my eyes, followed by a delicate touch of blush and a generous coat of mascara. Once adorned in my chosen dress, I turned to Alexia, seeking her judgment.

"How do I look?" I inquired, my tone laced with a blend of anticipation and apprehension.

She glanced up, her gaze sweeping over my outfit with an air of critical appraisal. "Like you're destined for a lifetime of virginity," she remarked, her voice dripping with disdain. My smile faltered, replaced by a string of muttered expletives as I discarded the dress and scoured my closet for a more suitable alternative.

"When was the last time you updated your wardrobe, [Y/N]?" Alexia interrogated with a touch of exasperation. "If you're aiming to catch Michael's eye tonight, you need to elevate your game."

"I'm trying," I retorted, scrolling through the chaos of my closet. Eventually, I emerged with a dark red spaghetti strap dress. Simple, yet far from disastrous. Donning it, I turned back to Alexia, a flicker of confidence in my eyes. "How's this?"

Her resolve to criticize melted away. "It looks nice, I suppose," she conceded, her tone begrudgingly admiring. With the party already underway for thirty minutes, we hurriedly Ubered over to Katrina's mansion.

The house sprawled before us like a glittering palace, its expansive backyard bathed in a kaleidoscope of flashing lights. I was awestruck. As we entered, the scene unfolded in a whirlwind of activity: people engaged in games, drinking, socializing, capturing moments in photos, and creating memories in videos.

Amidst the vibrant chaos, my gaze honed in on Michael. With a deep breath, I took a sip of beer for courage. "I'm going in," I announced, my voice betraying a mixture of trepidation and resolve.

"Go get your man," Alexia encouraged, a conspiratorial wink accompanying her words. I flashed her a nervous smile, an anxious flutter in my stomach as I made my way toward Michael. He was engrossed in his phone, oblivious to my approach. I stood there, momentarily unnoticed.

Clearing my throat, I sought to capture his attention. Michael looked up, an apologetic expression crossing his face. "Hey, what's up?" he asked, a smile lighting up his features as he tucked his phone away.

Michael and I had a shared history. Back in seventh grade, when he was in eighth, we had mutual friends and spent time together after school. However, when that friend group dissolved, so did our connection.

I moistened my lips, striving for laid-back. "Hey," I replied, attempting to sound casual. "I didn't realize you'd be at this party."

Oh trust me, I knew.

His chuckle was disarmingly charming, his smile captivating enough to draw me into an almost hypnotic trance. "Yeah, same goes for you. How have you been? It's been a while. You still look great."

"Thank you," I managed, feeling a bit unsteady. "I've been well. I actually heard about this movie that's coming out and—"

"Hey, [Y/N], did you see the new game in the living room?" The interruption was jarring. I turned to see Benj, his face adorned with an infuriatingly cheerful smile. What on earth was he doing at a party like this? I understood that Connor was friends with Katrina, but had he really invited Benj? And why on earth was Benj choosing now to engage with me, especially when I was speaking to Michael?