Our Love Story

Before That Night

As we all sat around the pool, the energy was still buzzing from the game. Everyone was laughing, passing around drinks, and enjoying the sunny day. I was trying to push the awkwardness of my last conversation with Asher out of my mind when my phone buzzed in my pocket.

I pulled it out and saw Marvin's name flash across the screen. I glanced around at everyone and then answered the call. "Hey, Marvin! What's up?"

"Hey, Naomi," he said, his voice cheerful. "I was wondering if you wanted to go out today. Maybe grab a drink or something?"

I glanced over at Asher, who was deep in conversation with Cole. The last thing I wanted to do was make things more complicated than they already were, so I quickly decided to keep things casual. "Actually, I'm with everyone at Asher's place. We're hanging out by the pool. Why don't you come over and join us?"

There was a pause on the other end, then Marvin responded, "That sounds like a plan! I'll be there in a bit."

"Great! See you soon," I said, hanging up the phone.

I turned to the group, flashing a smile to mask the tension I still felt inside. "Hey, guys, Marvin's going to come by and join us."

There was a general murmur of approval and some cheers as everyone continued with their conversations. I tried to focus on the positive vibes, hoping that Marvin's arrival would lighten the mood and distract me from the unresolved feelings lingering between Asher and me.

Marvin arrived a little while later, strolling into the backyard with a casual confidence that drew everyone's attention. Naomi greeted him with a warm smile and led him over to where the rest of us were lounging around. He gave a friendly nod and a quick "Hey, everyone!" as he joined the group. There was a general murmur of greetings, and before long, Marvin was comfortably integrated into the circle, chatting easily with our friends.

As the afternoon wore on, someone suggested watching a movie, and the idea quickly gained traction. We all made our way into the living room, which had been set up for a cozy viewing experience with snacks and blankets. I spotted a spot next to Naomi on the couch and was about to sit down when Marvin casually slid into the space, his proximity to her just a little too close for my liking. I couldn't help but notice the way he seemed more interested in her than just as a friend.

Trying to keep my emotions in check, I took a seat a little further away, but the disappointment gnawed at me. Cassy, always perceptive, caught the look on my face and subtly motioned for me to follow her into the kitchen.

Once we were alone, she turned to me with a concerned expression. "Okay, spill it. What's going on between you and Naomi?"

I sighed, running a hand through my hair as I leaned against the counter. "We... well, things got kind of intense earlier. We ended up in my room, and we... you know... but after, I told her I loved her, and she just brushed it off like it was nothing. It's like I can't figure out where we stand."

Cassy frowned, clearly feeling my frustration. "That's tough. I've seen the way she looks at you, though. I think she's just confused or maybe scared of messing things up between you two."

"I don't know," I said, shaking my head. "And now Marvin's here, and he seems really into her. I just don't want to make things worse by pushing too hard."

"Listen, just give it some time. Maybe talk to her later, when it's just the two of you. But don't jump to conclusions just because Marvin's around. It's possible she doesn't see him that way."

Before I could respond, we heard laughter erupting from the living room. Cassy gave me a reassuring pat on the arm, and we headed back to join the others.