Code Name

XIX

The whole day was just serial. Nobody seemed to be prepared or confident. Hell, I think I saw Becca giving the whole thing one or two more thoughts. Anyway, I picked up Tracy and headed to Becca's place.

"So, Trent decided to stay home?" I ask to keep the awkward silence at bay. It seemed to me that this has happened ever since our little exchange at the Apex Lounge.

"Yeah. He said he didn't want anything to do with it in case either Wess or Mike got really pissy. But he still wishes us the best of luck." She pauses as we both think of a new way to keep the conversation rolling. "How are you and Becca doing?"

"We're doing great. We worked out all the kinks that we had and things seem to be better than ever."

It feels strange to talk to her about how our relationship is going. I don't want to sound boastful but I also don't want to water it down too much. She only responds with "Nice." I'm actually very grateful that we're just about at Becca's. When we drive up, I see a Silverado parked in front of the apartment. Tracy and I walk up and see Becca, Josh, and Nate all in the living room.

"What's up, everyone," Tracy asks.

Josh stands up from the couch. "Just chatting before the big sha-bang. Are you guys sure you're okay with just sitting in the back seat while we're in there partying."

"I'm sure we'll be alright. You guys just be sure you're paying attention to Wess and Mike."

"I know. I will. Oh, before I forget, Nate, I need your phone number." Nate gives it to him as Josh types it in. "Sweet. I'll put you, Bec, and I in a group chat. That way we can talk to you guys in the car and we can talk to each other if we ever get separated."

Nate just nods. "Sounds good to me."

"Do you really think it'll be that easy to sneak into Harley's if everyone is so close together in there."

"Shouldn't be too rough. Her house is pretty big but there shouldn't be any big security. It's more of a matter of you guys getting in without being seen and getting out without someone eliminating you."

"Oh," she says with a weak chuckle. "Fun."

"You aren't nervous, are you, Bec?" Nate questions.

"Hell no. I'm just cautious. There's a difference. You think you'll be able to keep yourself in check?" Once again, Nate simply nods. "Good. Now, the party should be starting soon. Let's get going."

With that, we all headed out the door and into the cars. Everyone rode with me as Josh went alone. We figured people wouldn't care much about Nate and his car but they might get riled up if they hear three people in the bed of Josh Delent's truck. I quickly drove to get us all some burgers so we'd be able to have something to eat in case this takes longer than expected. Once we get close, Nate takes the wheel and parks across the street from the house.

The place does seem pretty big. It's nothing too impressive but still nice enough to make somebody take a second glance. Behind the two story home is another building in the yard that seems to be a guest house. You can hear the music from where we are and even feel the vibrations of the bass. We see Josh walk by the car and into the house with a faint cheer for his arrival.

I see Nate is pretty concerned about how the night will play out. "You okay?" I ask him as he takes in a breath.

"I think so." takes the keys out of the ignition.

Tracy puts her hand on his shoulder from the back "You'll do great, Nathan. We'll be right here for you."

"Thanks. Wish me luck and keep your heads low until Josh and I find a way in." He steps out and leaves us in the dim, gold lighting of the streetlights. We see him head in and, to none of our surprise, he's not met with the same reaction as Josh.

It's hard to see inside the car but I reach down to my feet and pick up the bag of hamburgers and place it in my lap.

"Anyone want one?" I ask. Both of the girls in the back say they do as I pass them each one and some fries. "So, how have you guys been?"

Tracy speaks up. "Pretty good. I've been applying for a few colleges and I'm just waiting to hear back." It seems strange to think that we're still seniors. We've been caught up with either playing the game or just hanging out while the thought of us needing to worry of our future. "How about you guys?"

Becca then speaks. "I haven't done much. I've just been chilling out at home more than anything." After she says this, A thick scent and a cloud of vapor.

"Are you--are you vaping while eating?" I ask.

"Yeah. I don't see the big deal in it. You still can't knock it if you haven't tried it."

Tracy coughs a bit. "Doesn't it ruin the taste of the burger at all?"

"Just a little. Other than that, it's still pretty good." As she speaks, Tracy and I inch down the windows to let the vapor crawl up into the open air.