Fishing Trip//Max Joseph//Catfish: The TV Show//Catfish

*Chapter Four*

     Ellie walked over to a few wooden picnic tables next to a small playground. Nev and Max stood to greet her as she neared them. "Hey!" She said, as she reached in for a hug. "It's nice to finally meet you guys!"

     Max and Nev sat across from Ellie. "So," Max said, curious. "Where are you from?" Ellie but her lip. This was always an awkward and difficult conversation for her. "I was born in Florida, but I moved to Washington, D.C.  when I turned 18." They continued, and all was well until they asked about family. Ellie stuttered awkwardly. "I um... never met my dad, and I haven't seen my mom in years."

     "I'm sorry, I didn't know," Max gasped. "Yeah, that sucks. I'm so sorry," Nev said, reaching for Ellie's arm. "Nah, it's fine. I guess you didn't see that video," she laughed. "No, but but I'll watch it tonight," Max promised, pointing to his phone that had been laying in the bench next to him. Ellie laughed and continued. "It doesn't really bother me anymore. I mean, it's weird when strangers ask, but I've gotten used to it."

     The topic lightened, and they began talking about Ellie's first month of travel. "So," Nev started, "Keep in mind, we'll pay for everything. So you don't need to worry about money." Ellie raised a hand to decline. "No way. No way are you guys paying for my flight and stuff. I got that." Max joined them, "Ellie really, we'll pay. We got it. You're our guest." Ellie sighed and ran her fingers through her hair. "Are you sure?" She asked. "I really don't want you guys to do that. I got it, really!" The three stood and began to walk back to the parking lot.

     "I'll give you the tickets next time we meet," Max said, smiling because he had won the argument. Ellie rolled her eyes and shoved him playfully. Nev handed Ellie her phone. "Okay, my number's in there." Ellie slid her phone in her back pocket. "Thanks." Max chimed in. "So we'll pick you up around 4:30 next Wednesday." Ellie stopped in her tracks.

     "Four-thirty... in the MORNING?" Ellie exclaimed. Max turned around to look at her. He laughed before confirming Ellie's question. "Yep. We gotta get there before 10:00 to meet up with whoever emails us. You sure you're ready for this?" Ellie jogged to catch up with them. "Yep. I'm sure," she said casually, with fake confidence. Nev laughed, "Ok. I'll text you before we get to your place." Ellie neared her car. "Ok, sounds good. And guys, thank you. This is amazing." Max pulled her in close for a hug. "No problem," he said winking. "See you soon." Ellie bit her lip and smiled. "Bye, Max."

     Ellie got into her car and started the engine. On the way home, she finished her vlog and planned to post it later that night. "Okay, guys! I just met Max and Nev in person for the first time! We got to know each other, and we just hung out for a while. They're gonna pick me up next week on Wednesday morning. And do you guys know how early I have to get up?? Four-freaking-thirty. In the morning," Ellie explained with a tired look on her face. "And... Nev and Max, I know you're gonna watch this. I am totally ready!" She reassured, adding emphasis to the word totally. "I got this, guys. Really."

     "Anyway, like, subscribe, and comment! And don't forget to follow Max and Nev and tell them I sent you. Be really annoying. I'm talking long comments, tons of follows, and really creepy DM's. Love you guys. Bye!"

     Yay!! This book is actually getting somewhere! Next chapter is gonna be awesomeeeee!!! Make sure you guys vote by pressing that little yellow star below! Comment and follow! I'll respond to your comment and give you a follow, too! Make sure to share this story with your friends and tag me on Instagram. My social media accounts are listed two chapters ago.

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