This Isn't The Way I Envisioned Love

Chapter 9

“Sure is.” Caspian said unenthusiastically.

“Are you guys…friends?” I said unsure of the word to use.

“We’re not exactly—“

“Array! Caspian!” Preston yelled pushing through people to get to us.

“Friendly.” Caspian finished.

“Ray baybay.” Preston was obviously drunk.

“Preston. What are you doing here?” He threw his arm around me as I asked.

“I was so bored and I just didn’t know what to do.” He started humming.

“What-what are you humming?” I pushed myself to ask.

“Take a Chance on Me. You know that old song…Why don’t youuuu,” he stretched out the word, “take a chance on meeeee!” He looked down at me and I looked away quickly.

“You are pretty drunk.” I stated.

“Caspian, isn’t this your girlfriends party?” Preston accentuated the word girlfriend.

“Don’t have a girl bro.” Caspian shrugged and put his beer to his lips.

I held in my smile. So he’s not completely committed to Zoe.

“Zoe told me that you were planning on playing my little Array here.” Preston pulled me closer to him and I glanced at them back and forth.

“What?” I finally asked and Preston shrugged.

“Tell her then.”

“Tell her what? You’re making up drunken lies? Zoe and I are dating…or were, I don’t know, but I would never hurt Array. She and I may have kissed, but I’m not trying to be with her. I’m not trying to hurt her and I’m definitely not going to try and date her while I’m dating Zoe.” Caspian shook his head and my heart broke a little.

I’m not trying to be with her.

Well, I knew that. I just didn’t want to hear it. He seemed so…friendly, too friendly. I shook Preston off and smiled politely at the guys.

“See problem solved. Zoe just wanted you to start problems and it’s not going to work. Caspian and I don’t want to be together. He’s a friend and an employer. That is all.” I swallowed and faced Caspian. “I have to go.” I gave him a quick hug before rushing towards the door but it was blocked so I made my way to the back.

Why were my hopes so high? Why did I think that Caspian would like me? I’m just his…babysitter. I walked around the enormous backyard. I inhaled deeply and then sat down on a bench. I’m surprised it’s not filled with a couple making out or worse.

“Crazy party.” Some voice stated and I glanced around, it was Clay.

“I guess. It’s sort of typical.” I think it would be crazy if the party was contained.

“True. What’s up Ray?” I shrugged in response.

“Nothing much, you?” I replied kicking the floor.

“Just wanted to get drunk, maybe hook up, but these girls are all stuck up. You have to be all…nice to get in their pants.” I laughed at him.

“No you don’t. I bet I could get in their pants.” Clay smiled widely.

“I would not mind seeing that.” I smacked his arm.

“Pervert. So what’s up? Why no banging in some crowded closet or shady bathroom?” I asked and he shrugged.