Page 10 of Undeniably

“Oh really? Why is that, Keat?” she probes gently.

“That was at the end of freshman year. I honestly forgot about her.”

Sage gives me a “sure you did” look. She sees more inside me than anyone else. She knows there is a story to me but has left it alone. I hope she continues to do so now.

“Well, maybe one day you will tell me all about her, Keat. Until then, you”—she points at Tinsley—“be nice to your brother, and you”—she points at Finley—“keep them out of trouble.”

“Yes, ma’am,” Finley responds as Tinsley pouts.

Sage leans over and kisses my cheek before whispering in my ear, “I’m here. Anytime, Keat. Love you.”

I stare at the table as she leaves, not wanting to show the emotions raging inside.

???

Chapter 2

Morgan

The first week of school flies by. Thankfully, Keaton has avoided me for most of it, deciding to act like I don’t exist.

That’s fine with me. I much prefer it this way.

Too bad Tinsley is hell-bent on us being friends. She’s invited me over to her house or to go shopping or even out to eat every night this week. Each day, I kindly turn her down, telling her I’m still settling. That girl does not understand the word no.

Friday morning comes, and I feel relieved because I’ll have two days to decompress after this week. As I almost make my escape, Tinsley catches me.

“Morgan! Wait up.”

Sighing, I stop to wait for her.

When she catches up, she links her arm with mine. “Enough excuses, you’re coming out with me tonight.”

“I don’t know….” I trail off.

“I do. You’re coming out with me. Come on. We haven’t hung out in forever. We have to catch up.”

“I don’t think it’s a great idea.”

She rolls her eyes, stopping next to my Tesla. “Keaton hasn’t even mentioned you since you got here. He won’t care. Besides, I have no one else. Victoria’s in her own little world right now, while Reed and Sage are basically married. That leaves me with Keaton and Finley, both man whores, mind you. I need a girlfriend. Please?”

I ignore the pang in my chest from her declaration that Keaton hasn’t even mentioned me, instead focusing on her pouting face. It’s obvious that she’s needing some attention that she isn’t getting. Biting my lip, I mull it over. After a moment, I reluctantly nod. “Fine. What’s the plan?”

“Dinner at Momma’s House. Maybe a party?”

At her innocent face, I soften. I really did miss having a social life. Being a dancer, I couldn’t trust anyone enough to be social. The girl being nice to your face is likely to put a thumbtack in your pointe shoes the next morning.

“All right, I’m in, but I’m driving and we leave when I want to leave. Agreed?”

“Yes,” she says seriously. Then she squeals, “This is going to be fun. Pick me up at six?”

“I’ll be there.”

As I make my way home, I realize a weight has lifted off my shoulders. I feel much lighter than I have since I left this place three years ago. I make my way to the kitchen to greet my mom.

“Hey, honey, school good?” she asks as I kiss the side of her head.

“What makes you think that?” I ask as I grab a banana.

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