Alex and Jared

Alex

"What other sports do you play? Softball? Soccer? Volleyball?" I interrogate Olivia.

"Softball and soccer," she laughs, "But I'm awful at volleyball!" I see why Jared likes her. She's perfect, she can make fun of herself, and she's the only person I've ever met sweeter than Syd.

Right then, I chose the the most imbecilic questions ever asked by mankind. "So... How long have you and Jared known each other?"

Her face steadily goes a shade of vermillion, but I know it doesn't hold a candle to my tomato red face. "Well, we met in preschool, and have been really close ever since."

"Uh... Cool," I inwardly sigh. I met Jay today. She's known him for like... forever.

"Hey, how long are you in California for? Maybe we could get together sometime." Her topic transition was perfect; one that even I am jealous for, so kudos to her for not humiliating me by calling out my stupid question.

•••

I relax my cheek muscles for the first time all of today. My shoulders slouch back, and I sigh loudly.

"Room for one more?" My head spins around, and my eyes are met by Jared's sparkling blue ones.

"What about Olivia?" I mutter against my better judgement.

"Sorry?"

"Nothing. Absolutely nothing at all."
Okay, I know I'm acting like an imp. But still! Jared ditched me for Olivia. That little brat is so perfect it disgusts me. Spotless olive skin, scintillating green eyes, and honey-colored hair. That pristine smile, melodious voice and silvery laugh. Gosh, I hate her.

More like, I wish I could hate her. But I can't- she's just... just... too perfect!

Jared slumps into Sydney's apartment couch- her place has pretty much been a hangout for everyone- and lets out a sigh much, much louder than mine. He looks at me, those deep blue eyes piercing my soul, and a shiver runs through my back. Gosh, he's perfect.

"Listen..." we both start in unison.

"Go 'head," I whisper, my lips dry. So here's where he tells me he likes Olivia. I knew it was coming.

"I-I- I'm sorry!" he gasps.

I sure didn't see that one coming.

Not.

At.

All.