Finding Arizona

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter 23

Arizona

"Can you get us another round of chicken wings? Thanks." Aaron had his arm wrapped around Melody. He kissed her cheek and smiled at Minka, who was telling us a story about how she reacted when this guy totally ignored her on her first date with him.

Dante was quiet the whole time. He just sat back, would crack a smile or two when something funny was being said. Luke was texting on his phone, totally not engaged with the conversation and instead texting his girlfriend whom he was in a long distance relationship with. It was another Friday night and after work, we decided to tag along with more friends and hit up a restaurant nearby that happens to also have a stage for performances and a bar.

I think it competes with Flux and Flow, not really sure. We didn't really consider how it made us look, being employees there and coming over to its rival hang-out.

Scotty was bringing up a story after another round of laughter and drinks were being exchanged. I think he and Minka are actually pretty good people and are extremely outgoing and funny. This week at work Scotty has been flirting with me like crazy and I would just smile and walk away because I was so awkward like that. 

He's pretty good looking. Blonde hair, dark gray eyes, and cute dimples. He looked young to be twenty-six, actually. You would think he would be married with a child somewhere, but he's not the 'marrying' type, or so he claims.

He randomly put his arm around me and I tried not to think too much about it, instead listening to the singing in the background and moving my head a little.

Dante stared at me with a blank expression, his arms crossed. He was acting all chill tonight. But I had a feeling something was bothering him. It could have been that conversation we had a few days ago, about how I willingly permitted him to, you know, screw me if he wanted. He hated the idea, yelled at me, and left. I embarrassed myself for even suggesting it, that's why we haven't really been talking lately except for when we needed to decided on the menu this week for breakfast and dinner at the condo.

I watched him, taking a sip of my drink.

Scotty actually admitted that he would sleep with me. I just wanted to let everyone know I'm not helpless and I can actually make decisions for myself. Maybe I should just let him. But it wouldn't feel right. If it's not Dante, I don't think I want to allow anyone else to.

Dante randomly smirked at what Aaron was saying again. When the tray of food came, everyone dug in. It was quiet for a moment as everyone ate and listened to the music in the background. When the singer was finished, Minka clapped her hands and a big smile sprouted on her face.

"Oh! Oh! When they ask for any volunteers, Arizona should totally get up there," She jerked her thumb at the stage behind her.

I choked on my chicken before Scotty generously patted me on the back. My eyes watered.

"Did I say something wrong?" Minka questioned, a frown on her face.

"I don't sing." I tell her.

"But you sound so good! Come on, I don't sing either but that doesn't stop my boyfriend from having to listen to me in the shower all the time! It's all for fun, Arizona. Won't you do it? For me? Your new friend that you love?" She batted her eyes at me, pouting out her bottom lip.

"I think you should. Go for it." Melody encouraged, wiping her mouth with a napkin.

"No."

"Arizona!" All of them whined at me, except for Dante, who just sat back and watched.