Colorful (H.S) | ✔️

48

As the night grew near, so did my anxiety. Today, I had to tell Drew that I found my soulmate and that I wouldn't get back together with him.

My heart's racing.

I distract myself by getting ready, barely knowing what to wear. I haven't gone to a party like this in a while. With Harry, it's been all fancy and posh parties. Except for that one time at the penthouse...

I push the cringe memory to the back of my head. I need to focus on tonight.

I decide to wear shorts and a crop top. Since it's Florida, it's not really cold for a February. Before I finish changing, Audrey knocks on my bedroom door.

"Come in," I yell, putting my mascara on. She comes in and groans when she realizes I'm not done yet.

"El," she whines, "Hurry! We're going to be late!" She's obviously very excited to see her soulmate tonight. A little impatient too. 

I nod, speeding up. She's giving me a ride to the party, but Harry's giving me a ride home. That way, I don't have to depend on her and she can do her own thing. 

I'm finally ready to go. I grab my phone and stuff it in my back pocket. My best friend wolf-whistles when I come out of my room. I flick her off resulting in her having a giggle fit.

The party itself is at a frat from the local college. I don't really like frats, but they do know how to party. 

We pull up into the Greek house to see it's already in full swing. Many people are scattered around the front lawn, carrying red Solo cups. 

Once we're inside, the strong smell of beer fills my nose. Before I can say anything, Audrey pulls me to the kitchen. I grab a red cup and fill it halfway. 

Better to go slow this time.

I look around for Harry, but can't find him. He blends in with the crowd. Sometimes I wonder how he'd be if he actually went to college. He seems to be the frat type. 

We spot Drew and near him. I finish my cup, knowing every ounce of alcohol helps. 

She nudges me toward him. I accidentally stumble into him, which catches his attention.

"Ellie! Hey!" He yells over the music.

"Can we talk?" I yell back, hoping he can hear me. 

He nods and grabs my arm, guiding me through the crowd. Once we're in the backyard, he stops. It isn't quiet or isolated, but it's better than the crowded house.

"What's up?" He asks, his eyes sparkling.

I keep a blank face, trying not to show any positive emotion. "Yeah, so..."

He waits for me to continue, but I hesitate. How am I going to tell him? I don't want to ruin our friendship. 

Before I know it, his face comes close to mine, pulling me into a kiss. I stay still, with shock. Once I realize what's going on, I pull away. "Drew..."

"C'mon Ellie, you felt that," he remarks, reaching for my hands. It's almost like he's pleading for me to feel the same way, but I don't. I don't feel anything with him. I take a step back, shocked at his sudden gesture.

"Stop," I order. He sobers up, staring at me blankly. "Drew, I came to tell you that I found my soulmate." His dumb actions forced me to be blunt, but I'm a little grateful. Without him kissing me, I'd probably take ten years to confess. 

"W-what?" He stares at me in utter disbelief.

I let him process my words for a few seconds before continuing. "Yeah... I need you to back off."