third time's a charm

"look at our boys down there"

chapter twenty-one: look at our boys down there

it's here. the big game. it's the game chapter.

Wednesday, December 20. 11:05 am.

"I am making my way out of school right now," I told Jamie as I pulled my phone up to my ear; he had called me moments before and I guessed he was wondering where I was.

"Did you happen to tell Will or Rowan about this?" Jamie asked, speaking quietly which confused me.

"No," I told him, shaking my head.

"Well, I got here early to order for us so that we'd have ample time... and Vales and Rowan just walked in." My eyes widened as Jamie spoke, but my heart dropped. All I wanted was to casually go out with Jamie.

"Has Rowan seen you yet?"

"Not yet," Jamie said, still whispering. "She's looking around right now... and she just saw me."

"What's she doing now?" I asked, wanting him to continue to update me.

"Well, considering I'm sitting alone with two bagels and two drinks... she either just made the connection, or thinks I'm cheating on you." I couldn't help but laugh at Jamie's words. I unlocked Will's car and climbed in.

"Let me call her really quick, okay? I'll see if I can't think of a plan."

"Okay... see you soon." I ended the call and immediately dialed Rowan's number.

"I had no idea. I am so sorry!" Rowan was also whispering.

"Is there any chance you're getting bagels to go?"

"We weren't going to... but I can make that happen. We don't have a ton of time before we're going to school, so that'll be easier anyways."

"I'm sorry to change your plans, that's not fair of me—"

"Ellie, it's definitely fair," Rowan was talking even quieter than before. "I'm excited that you guys are going into public, honestly. I'll tell him now."

"Thank you so much, Ro. I owe you one."

"Don't mention it. Love you, Elle." We ended the call and I started the car, wasting no time as I drove out of the parking lot. The drive to the bagel place was less than five minutes, so I got there in no time.

I had gotten there before Vales and Rowan had left, however, and they saw me as I was getting out of the car.

"Ellie!" Vales shouted as he saw me and I sent him a wide smile. "I didn't know you were getting bagels!"

"Just making a quick stop before going home," I lied as I walked up to the two of them. "You guys going into school?"

"Yeah—"

"We could stay and eat with you, though," Vales suggested, but I shook my head.

"Like I said, I'm just making a quick stop. I am in need of a nap. You guys go ahead." I smiled at them both and I could tell Rowan was feeling anxious.

"Okay... well, we'll see you later?" Vales asked and I nodded. "I think I'm gonna spend the night tonight. I haven't had a chance to see Elliot."

"He's been dying to spend some time with you."

"How have things been with him?" Vales asked, seeming genuinely curious. "I haven't asked... and I'm sorry."

"Vales, don't be sorry." I shook my head at him. "Things are good, honestly. He sorta stays in the background, so things haven't been bad. Once I'm at home all day everyday, it might get interesting... but I'm content with him for right now. It'll be nice to have you over, and your mom, too."