The Other Girl (#Wattys2016)

Chapter Twenty-Two

HARTEL’S POV

I arrived at Shannon’s place earlier than expected. I was growing impatient at home and the dance is about to start in 30 minutes anyways. So I really think I could wait here because I’m sure Shannon wouldn’t bother. I texted Julius to tell him that I’m about to pick up her girlfriend though, so he’ll know.

I know what you’re thinking; it’s his girl so it’s supposed to be him who’s picking her up. But the dude asked for my help since he’s needed at school earlier than all of us so he has no choice but to follow orders. Shannon didn’t wanna tire him that much so she just asked for him not to pick her up. The good boyfriend that he is, he felt bad so he asked me to do it. While she gets to ride with Saab. I know, not fair. But Julius’s my best friend for as far as I can remember, so I’ll do anything to help that lad. That’s why I’m standing right in front of Shannon’s place; my fingers just finished pressing the doorbell.

The door’s knob twisted and it opened, showing a male teen that I’ve never seen before. His face fell when he saw me. “Uhh... hi?” It wasn’t a greeting, it was a question.

I eyed him murderously. “Hi. Where’s Shannon?” I asked with my voice supreme and angry.

He shifted his weight as he answered nervously, “Inside.” I looked directly at him; taking him in. he’s a handsome lad, no doubt. But he’s not dressed formal and I know that I haven’t seen him in school so there’s nowhere in hell that he’s another date of Shannon. Besides, the girl’s head over heels for Julius, no shit she’ll be cheating on that dude. He’s pretty around our age though so my suspicions really aren’t that easy to fade away.

I crossed my arms over my chest and raised my eyebrow, “So, aren’t you going to invite me in?”

“Yeah, sure.” He smiled awkwardly and opened the door wide enough for me to get in. I stepped inside and walked towards the living room. Shannon’s house was built and designed by her parents. Her dad’s an engineer and her mom’s an architect. She wants to be an interior designer in the future so I really think their family’s perfect for each other. All about houses, how great. I bet if she has a brother or another sibling, he’ll be the one to build the house itself. Unfortunately, she’s an only child.

Shannon was sitting at the living room with her mother and another woman. When she saw me, she looked pretty shocked. Can’t blame her though, she has no idea I’ll be picking her up.

“Hartel?” Shannon said, standing up. “What are you doing here?”

I smirked at her. “Now, now, Shans. Is that a good way to treat your boyfriend’s best friend who happens to be your ride for tonight?”

Shannon smiled the blush on her cheeks undeniable. “You’re… you’re my ride?”

I nodded. “Julius texted me and asked me a favor. And this is the favor,” I gestured at her, and then smiled. “So, ready?”

She looked behind her and I saw the puzzled look on the people in the living room. And the disapproving looks on her mother’s face… uh-oh.

I cleared my throat before facing them all, smiling the brightest smile I can summon. “Hello, sorry for the rudeness. I’m Hartel Williams, Julius’s bestfriend. I’m here to pick up Shannon,” I said formally, looking at them but purposely ignoring the guy’s eyes. I looked at Mrs. Cyrus. “Ms. Deana, good evening.”

Deana smiled. “Good evening, Hartel. Where’s Julius?” She asked, standing up and pulling me in a slight hug.

“He’s at school already. President of the Student Government and one of the MCs,” I answered.