Broken - A pretty face doesn't cover an ugly heart

43

(Anna's POV)

I wake up feeling fabulous. It's official, I'm now 22 and I look better than ever. I love the number 2; it's like my lucky number. And now that I carry it twice on my age, there's no doubt it will be my year.

I'll be doing a small party, in fact it can't even be nominated as a real party, there will be what, 20 people?, at Evan's place tonight. Last night I sent an invitation to Ryan, although I wasn't sure that it was a great idea, but he didn't reply yet. Nor James. Argh, now that we were getting friends again, he's all sensitive because of me dating Evan. I feel bad for him, but what can I do?
I get up of my bed, and I look at myself on the mirror with a bright smile on my face. Today everything will be great. 

- Good morning! Happy birthday!

Harold had said to me when I show up in the kitchen. I hug him and he kisses my forehead. I don't know if he's upset with me or what, but he definitely has been acting weird lately. Distant. I think there's something to do with Barbra. She's a little needy sometimes.
I eat breakfast really quickly and then I take a shower and pick some cute outfit. I need to get going to Evan's because Haley will meet me there to help me with the decoration and stuff.

When I'm on the bus station, I heard a horn and when I look at the car that was making a noise, it was James.

- Do you want a ride?

- Sure.

I got in and he wishes me a happy birthday. I thank him and he ask if I'm going to Evan's place, I said yes, so now I'm explaining him how to get there. He seems very cool about it.

- Will you show up later?

- I don't think it's appropriate.

- Why's that? I invited you!

- I know Anna, but you're a little insensible sometimes. I don't think your guy will be happy with me being there.

Well, he had a point, but what should I say now?

- I don't know what to say...

- It's ok. I'm used to cause this kind of impact over people.

He winks at me, giving me a charming smile. I can't help smile back. I completely adore this guy! Argh, I hope Evan starts to like him soon.

- Thanks for the ride!

- Anytime.

I say goodbye and then I walk to Evan's place. The doorman let me in, and in a second I'm on the elevator. I get on his floor, and wait for him to answer the door.

- Hi!

He kisses me. I still can't get away from the anxiety that takes me every time that he does that. Is such a nice feeling.

- You got here fast!

- Yes! I got lucky, Jim was around and he gave me a ride.

At the moment that I mentioned that, he pulled a poker face. I knew he hadn't liked it, but I wouldn't lie.

- Come on Evan, stop being such a kid.

He rolled his eyes.

- How would you feel if I was driving Vanessa around town?

That was different.

- It's not fair.

He rolled his eyes, but he let go the subject. I think he only did it because it's my birthday. But it's cool; I don't want to fight with him - or anyone - today.

***

The day passed so fast that I barely noticed when it was party time. Luckily, Haley is way more organized than me, so everything was ready just in time.

There were only the guys from Evan's band, Daniel, Haley and some people from college here. When the doorbell rang, I was shocked to see Ryan. I wasn't expecting him.

- Happy Birthday.

- Thanks!

Awkward silence.

- So... How's everything?

- Just fine... And you?

- Yeah, fine as well.

It's weird to think that the last birthday that Ryan and I were together it was that big mess. I think he's thinking about the same thing when he sees Dan.

We smile to each other and luckily Evan appeared, and he and Ryan started a conversation about how the Ferrari team was getting back on track on formula 1. They loved to follow the races. I honestly think that it makes no sense. Unless you're the one driving, what's the fun?

Anyway. The party goes on and I'm controlling myself not to laugh when I saw Caleb hitting on Haley.

- But how's my fault that I didn't born a girl? What should I do with all these feelings I have for you?

- Honey, you could be the prettiest girl here, you're still annoying me. How many different ways there's to say the word no? Besides, I'm not looking if you're a guy or a girl, I just need to be interested, WHICH IS NOT THE CASE.

- People never give up when they find their true love!

Halley seems about to slap him, and before she does, she walk away to talk with a girl from our class, leaving Caleb alone. I want to laugh of his face, but that would be mean, so I stop paying attention and Daniel it's coming to talk to me.

- Look at him.

He says, pointing to Ryan.

- What?

- I was around there to get a drink, and I accidentally heard him talking. Guess who's it?

- Oh.

He seemed a little irritated when he finished the call. I see him waving to Evan, who was talking with Dylan, before he walks to the door.

- I'll be right back.

I say to Daniel.

- Ok.

- Hey, are you leaving already?

- Yeah... I'm sorry, it's great here, but I need to rest... Had a tough day at work...

- It's ok Ryan; you don't need to explain it. Was she mad?

He breathes a little tired.

- A little.

- Argh, why does she have to be such a buzz killer? What does she think? That I'll remember the old times with you in front of everybody?
I said sarcastic.

- Don't talk about her like that Anna, please. You don't need to act this way.

Argh. Such a sentimentalist. I roll my eyes.

- Whatever, I'll do the way you want it. Wasn't it always?

It sounded cynical, but it wasn't my intention. Oh great, he's giving me that look! Here comes the preach.

- You're growing older Anna, isn't about time you start to act like it? I'm tired to have this same old fight with you.

- I'll note it. Thanks for coming.

I say, closing the door. Not really mature, I admit. Well, what was I expecting? It was Ryan, after all. He can't spend a day without giving away his wisdom to those in need. What a beautiful soul.

I forget about it, and I get back to my party. It's still my day, and the only thing I want to do is dance.

_____

Next: Wednesday