Cassie (Book #1 of the "Cassie" Series)

Chapter #17: Paint the Town Red

10:02 pm

"So, I have a question." I said once we were alone. Chad drove us over to this secluded area that overlooks the town, just me and him so we could talk alone. We sat together on the hood of his BWM, the moonlight shined on my satin dress as the cold October night air blew through my hair. Chad noticed I was cold and took off his suit jacket, draping it across my shoulders.

"Go on." he said as he adjusted the jacket over my back.

"What did you mean when you said "I don't do that anymore"? Like... you don't hook up at all anymore? Do you have a girlfriend? Did you just get bored?"

"Ah, so my sex life is your business, is it?" Chad said, looking offended.

"Oh n-no I didn't mean." I stuttered. Chad's serious face turned to a smile and he started laughing.

"I'm totally kidding. Nah, I just don't really care anymore. Hookups are overrated." he said with a shrug. I was a little taken aback, he cleaned himself up really nicely tonight and then told me that he was OVER random hookups? Who is this man and what has he done with Chad?!

"Well, that's very... not you. But I support that."

"So, you and Park are official now then?" Chad asked. I sighed.

"Yes, we are. Please don't say anything rude, this is what's happening and I'm just gonna need you to accept it or shut up about it-"

"Actually I was gonna say I'm really happy for you." he interrupted me. Ah, here was shock #3 of the night.

"Huh?!"

"Yeah. Listen, I don't like the guy and I can't pretend that I do. But I know that you deserve all the happiness in the world, and I haven't seen you this happy in a long time. Your happiness is very important to me." Chad said with a smile. That was oddly sweet and genuine. I clasped my hands together and grinned.

"Thank you, so so much." I wrapped my arms around him and squeezed him tightly. After a second, he hugged me back, holding me close to him. I didn't really want to let go, it was such a cold night, and being all cuddled up to Chad honestly felt nice and warm, comforting even.

"Although, please tell Ryan that if he fucks this up in any way I'm not responsible for my actions." he said. I giggled and smacked him on the back.

"I'll be sure to deliver that message, but I think he's already figured that out." I nuzzled my head against Chad's chest, taking in all the warmth and trying to ignore the cold, harsh air.

"Hey, Chad?"

"Mhm?"

"I'm getting really cold, do you think we could go back to your place and hang?"

"NO." he suddenly went all stiff, I could feel his body going tense. I let go of him and looked him in the eye.

"Why not?" I asked. Chad relaxed a little and exhaled.

"My Mom said she wanted some quiet time this evening, so we shouldn't be coming home until the dance is over." he said. I shrugged, I mean it was fair enough, I knew how hard Mrs. Hills-Deal worked every day.

"Is there anywhere else we can go?" I asked. Chad contemplated for a moment.

"I know somewhere."

10:34 pm

I watched as Chad put the bag of Cheetos on the counter, and took out a fake I.D. to pay for them. After hanging out at the looking point, he drove us to some convenience store in town for some snacks.