As I was about to walk home, Randy came from behind and startled me. He took me by surprise, making my heart pound in my chest but not like before. Before, it was because I looked at him with awe and wonder. I saw him as a man amongst men, someone who could sweep me off my feet. Now I just saw a monster who tormented others and hid his fangs under a smile.
“Hey, Lena, you’re not still upset about last night are you?” he asked innocently. “It was all in good fun, ya know. You weren’t hurt were you?”
“No, I’m fine. I’m not upset, I just need to get home.”
“If you’re not upset, why don’t you come hang with us again? It’ll be fun, and I promise no truth or dare this time.”
“No, I-I’m good. I just want to go home.” My voice shook with every syllable. I just hoped he would think it was because I was nervous around him and not because I knew his secret.
“Oh, come on, I still owe you a date, don’t I? Why not come with us?”
“I don’t really deserve that date. I ran out before I got anything from the house, and besides, I don’t think your friends really like me all that much.”
“What?” Sarah joined. “That’s not true, you were a hoot last night. The way your face lit up when I asked about your crush was so cute. Come on, just come with us you’ll have fun.”
“No,” I replied sternly, “I just want to go home.” I pushed passed the both of them and began to head home. My friend Mabel soon caught up with me.