Stand by Me

Seventeen

Vanessa's POV

I let out a heavy breath of relief as I make my way back stage. Had my sight been deceived or was it true? What in the world was Jay Rollins doing here? Especially with my friends! That's what confuses me the most.

After the brief encounter at the cafeteria, I doubted every instinct that he decided to proceed with. I need to define my boundaries about the redamancy of my friends. The words he said about Cody still resonates to remain an orphic thought in my brain.

"That was amazing!! Girl, you can sing!". I definitely recognize the voice.

"Cody!"

To be honest, I was so glad to see him. I returned his warm embrace.

"Honestly, I enjoyed the first song so freaking much. ", Edith chiseled in.

"I have a feeling that the whole song selection was dedicated to me.", Chris spoke, as he made his way.

"In your dreams!", I rolled my eyes. Seriously?

He chuckled."Just kidding. Anyway, beautifully sung."

"Thanks", I smile.

"Edith. Umm.. Can we talk for a minute?", I ask.

I get a feeling that she already knows what I'm about to ask. She approves my question with a quick nod and we ensure that there's a decent distance between the boys and us.

"Okay. Was that Jay? What is he doing here?"

"I don't know. But he definitely couldn't take his eyes off you.", she smirks. Now's not the time, Edith!

"Why was he with you guys?"

"He's a friend of Max's apparently.", I note her skeptic tone.

"Edith, there's something I need to tell you. Really important. And it's about Cody. But, it's not safe here. Text me when you reach home. I'll call you.", I try to end our little furtive conversation as my eyes comprehend a wannabe eavesdropping Cody.

Oh, Cody? When will you ever grow up?

"What's all this? A secret and not sharing with me? Why do I sense that you two-"

"Okay! I'm gonna stop you right there before you come up with some sorta melodramatic crap!", Edith cut him off.

Oh. My. The look on Cody's face was worth an everlasting boomerang! Oh, poor poor little Cody was offended. His cheeks flushed with anger similar to that of a little child, the minute he heard me giggle.

"I'm sorry, Cody. But she's right. We were just talking about..umm..uh-"

I suck at lying!

"Burritos!", Edith screamed.

Seriously, Edith? You honestly could have done much better.

"Oh! So, you're telling me that you two came to this secret corner to chitchat about burritos? Do you ever believe I'll buy that ?", Cody crossed his arms.