Page 94 of Pick Me Up On Tuesdays

As the sun dipped lower, we finally pulled into a small roadside motel.

The kind of place where the neon sign flickered uncertainly, and the receptionist looked like she had seen some things.

Mr. Dax stood at the front of the bus, clearing his throat. “Alright, listen up! We’re staying here for the night before continuing in the morning. Everyone, grab your bags and—”

I barely heard the rest—probably the usual “don't sneak out” or “make sure you sleep with your lights off” kinds of instructions—because as I stood up, stretching out my stiff limbs, I glanced at Ethan.

And for just a split second—before he noticed me watching—I saw it.

That same faraway look. That same shadow in his expression.

Whatever was on his mind, it was still there.

Still lingering.

And I had a feeling it wasn’t going away anytime soon.

Just after slinging my bag over my shoulder, I felt a tap on my back.

Max.

I didn’t even have to turn around to know what this was about. The guy had been practically vibrating with excitement all day, barely able to contain whatever scheme he and the others had cooked up. I sighed internally, already bracing myself.

He leaned in, lowering his voice to a whisper like we were spies exchanging classified information. “Sneak him out to the beach at midnight.”

I glanced at him, unimpressed. “Why?”

Max wiggled his eyebrows like that was supposed to be an answer.

I blinked at him. He sighed, like I was the dense one here, then finally elaborated, “That's where we are throwing Ethan a surprise party.”

Instantly, I was caught off guard by the realization that I hadn't decided what to get him. I had been so absorbed by his behavior all day that I completely forgot to get him something.

Not like I knew him enough to know what to get him, or if he loved gifts.

Would it be weird if I got him something?

Would it be weird if I didn’t?

I stole a glance at him.

He was laughing at something one of the jocks said, effortlessly blending into the conversation like he always did. There was no sign that today meant anything special. No hints, no smugness, no self-congratulatory remarks.

I frowned.

Had he really not told anyone?

“Does he even know you guys planned this?” I asked, keeping my voice just as quiet.

Max snorted. “Of course not. That’s the whole point of a surprise party, genius.” He smirked. “But knowing Ethan, he probably suspects something by now. Guy has a sixth sense for this stuff.”

I hesitated.

It wasn’t like I had a reason not to go. I had already been roped into this whole trip, and if everyone was sneaking out anyway, it wasn’t like I could stop them. Besides, if I didn’t go, Max would probably drag me there himself.

“Wouldn't it be obvious if I ask him to sneak out with me?” I quizzed.

“Only if you suck at it.”

---