Are We Normal Yet?

~Chapter 22~

Obviously, avoiding someone can be a real challenge if they are in the same friendship group as you. So what do you do?

Well, avoid eye contact, and don't end up alone with them. Thankfully, when you've got a best friend like Noah, it's way easier.

I don't think the others have even noticed, and I'm very glad. If Finn has picked up on the distance I'm giving him - he hasn't said anything. Maybe he wants to, but he hasn't had the chance to mention it as I make sure Noah is always near.

*Caleb's pov*

I open the front door, letting Hayden in.

Caleb: Hey man, how's it going?

Hayden: Same old same old.

I lead him into the living room, where Finn and Gaten are sat already. I notice how Finn looks up when we enter - a bit of hope in his eyes, until he realises Hayden has came alone. Again.

Caleb: Would you like a drink?

Hayden: Nah, I'm good. Thanks though.

He sits down next to Gaten - they fist bump each other.

Caleb: No Emma again?

Hayden: Afraid not. She's out with Jaeden.

Finn makes a scoffing noise. I shoot him a look.

Gaten: Say, are they together or something? She's always with him nowadays.

Hayden: Truthfully? I don't actually know, she hasn't said anything.

Gaten: Probs keeping it a secret.

Hayden: Fuck knows. I don't pester her. If she is, she'll tell me when she feels comfortable.

Time to change the subject before Finn starts ripping my sofa up.

Caleb: (claps hands together) Right my guys, I've found something that you're all gonna like.

All three pair of eyes land on me. Good.

Finn: What you found?

Gaten: We're all ears.

Caleb: Turns out that Tanya... Is not her real name. She also changed her appearance by the looks of things.

Hayden: What's her real name?

Gaten: How did you find this out?

Caleb: Tracked down one of the dealers she got involved with. Anonymously obviously. He told me that 'Tanya' came to him, under the name 'Annie'.

Gaten: Oooh Annie.

Hayden and Finn grin.

Finn: But what if Annie is a fake name?

Caleb: That's what we are gonna be finding out Finn.

Hayden: Ooh this is going to be fun.

Gaten: Definitely.

Caleb: Then let's crack on my guys.

*Friday - the day before the House Party*

*Back to my pov*

Grace: I can't go.

We all look up at her.

James: Why?

Grace: I just can't.

Noah: (raises an eyebrow) You can't or won't..?

Grace: (narrows eyes) Can't. I find it insulting that my own mates doubt me.