Page 96 of The Friend Scheme
I don’t hate that thought.
Oh wow.
That’s terrifying. I can’t date Jason, I know that. But still, now I’m picturing it. Us, in sweats, cuddling as we watch TV and eat junk food. Showering together. Kissing, like, all the time. Him calling me his boyfriend when we meet someone new.
The truth is, I love all of it.
“I’m Scott, by the way,” says the third dude.
“Hi. Matt, obviously.”
I shake his hand and start blushing. It dawns on me that I love feeling like one of the group. I smile and notice Jason is looking at me in, like, the softest way. I’m blushing, and he doesn’t seem to care.
“Hey,” he says, tilting his head up. “Having fun?”
“Yeah! Like, so much! Dude, you’re amazing at this.”
“Shucks. I’m glad you think so. I feel like I’ve been playing better than normal today. I think it might be because of you.”
He looks at me, then glances away, hiding his expression.
“Guys, we better go before Coach notices,” says Scott. “And thanks for coming, Naomi. Um. I’m glad you could make it, I know you’re really busy and stuff.”
Seriously.
They’re both such awkward cinnamon rolls.
I already ship them so hard.
“Sure thing!” says Naomi. “I love watching people prove their masculinity via hitting tiny balls.”
“Me too!” says Bri.
“You guys are the worst,” says Scott with a smile. “Even you, new guy.”
With that, the three turn and jog down the steps.
Jason turns back and waves, just at me.
My stomach plummets.
CHAPTER EIGHTEEN
It’s time.
I need to talk to Dad.
I’ve been trying to muster up the courage ever since I got home from the game. I need to tell him what Cassidy told me. Now that the moment is here I’m reconsidering. I’ve always been low-key afraid of him, and avoid him as much as possible, but lately it’s gotten a lot worse.
I guess I have more to lose now.
Plus, this is the first time I’ve ever gone brazenly against his wishes. I’ve always done what he wanted, with a sort of reserved acknowledgment that it’s just the way things need to be.
I did “forget” my mask that one time.
But that’s nothing compared to being friends with a Donovan.
I’ve seen him mad before, but if he found out, I’m sure it’d be next-level.
