Cookie

3

I have both math and physics with Liam, apparently. If in math class Mrs. Caro placed us next to each other, in physics, Liam simply told the girl sitting next to me to disappear. And guess what? She did.

He didn’t say a word to me after math class, but thankfully, in physics, Mr. Anderson didn’t give us any exercises—because I was sure Liam would want my help again.

When the second class ended and I was gathering my things, Tiffany appeared next to my desk. I instinctively took a step back, ready to run like a frightened rat. But instead of focusing on me, she turned toward Liam, placing her hands on his chest and rising on her toes to kiss his lips.

My eyes widened in shock. An uncomfortable feeling twisted in my stomach, something I couldn’t quite place. What was that? Why did I feel this way? Was I... sick?

"Liam, love, why are you sitting with this loser now?" she asked in that high-pitched voice of hers, pointing directly at me.

I clenched my jaw, gathering my things quickly and heading toward the door, determined to ignore her. But then I heard Liam’s response.

"I am not your love, Tiffany. I told you—it was a one-time thing, okay? Now, please, mind your own fucking business and leave me alone."

I nearly stumbled over my own feet at his bluntness. I walked faster, hoping he wouldn’t follow me. But instead of coming after me, Liam simply walked past like I was invisible, like he didn’t even know me.

Which, to be fair, was kind of true.

And why the hell would I think he would follow me?

Come on, Nat, what’s wrong with you today? He’s into girls like Tiffany. Besides, you don’t know him, and he kind of terrifies you…

I shook my head, trying to push the thoughts away as I entered the cafeteria.

"Hey!" I greeted, dropping into my usual seat next to Mary. "Where’s your new boyfriend, huh?" I teased.

She looked at me with big, pleading puppy eyes, and a huge smile stretched across her face.

I knew that look. That look meant she was about to ask me for a kidney.

"What do you want?" I sighed, rolling my eyes.

"Okay, I know you hate parties—and this is not a party, definitely not a party—but Logan has this… thing at his house on Saturday. Just a small get-together. A couple of his friends from Briwarm, some drinks, a barbeque… Please, please, please come with me? I need my friend there!"

"Briwarm? That’s where he used to live?"

She nodded eagerly.

"Please say yes, Nat. I just really want you there for moral support. I’m meeting Logan’s friends, and I really like him… Plus, you need to get out of your house and have some fun."

I sighed, remembering my promise to my parents. That I would try to start living again. Making friends. Doing normal things.

"Fine, I’ll come," I said, forcing a small smile.

Mary squealed, taking my hands and grinning at me with teary eyes.

"Thanks!" she said, blowing me a kiss before looking past me, her smile widening.

I turned to see Logan and his brother approaching our table, trays piled high with food, coffee, and Coke. God, guys really do eat a lot.

"Hey, Nat! Hey, beautiful!" Logan greeted, sliding onto the bench next to Mary and kissing her—right on the lips.