Page 14 of Next Time We'll Fall

“So, you still like him?”

“No.”

“It’s okay. He’s cute. I mean, he looks grumpy and annoying, but he’s cute. And maybe it’s kind of cool that he’s protective over you. He’ll beat up anyone who tries to get to you.”

“That’s not cute. It’s annoying.”

“So, then tease him and show him he’s not the boss of you.”

“What do you mean?”

“I mean, do as much as you’re willing to do and then run off the stage. He’ll see you up here, dancing, having fun, and every single guy will be watching you, and he’ll be so jealous.”

“I mean, I guess it wouldn’t hurt to make him see what he’s missing.” I stare at her with a smile.

“Exactly. Flaunt your stuff. You’re gorgeous. And if I do say so myself, you’ve got a nice rack.”

“Thank you. You too.”

“You don’t have to say that. I’m kind of flat-chested, but I work with what I got. It’s nice because I don’t have to wear a bra half the time.”

“Come on, girls. Over here!” John shouts, and we realize we’re still standing there while all the other girls have grabbed their T-shirts.

“Oops,” we say as we hurry over to the side of the stage.

“I guess we’re doing this then,” I look over at her.

“I guess we are.” She grimaces. “I’m Amelia. What’s your name?”

“Juniper.”

“Nice to meet you, Juniper.”

“You too.”

“So, we’ll just have fun.”

“And stay at the back of the stage.” I laugh as we grab our shirts and attempt to hide behind a sea of giggling girls who seem far more eager to show off their goods.

I look back out at Rafe, and he has a thunderous expression on his face. He can’t believe I’m going through with it. Neither can I.

“You go, girl!” Rosie shouts out to me, as Sage jumps up and down. They are calling far too much attention to all of us, but I’m not about to respond to them and somehow garner more attention.

I can see Rafe glaring at them, and all I can do is laugh. I guess I’m doing this. For real. I groan loudly, and Amelia wrinkles her nose as we stand there. Never in my life did I ever think I’d enter a wet T-shirt competition, but here we go.

“We meant to just change right here?” I ask her, feeling lightheaded.

“I think so,” Amelia says with a nod. “I mean, I don’t think they really care about our modesty when half of us are going to be bouncing our tits up and down.”

“You’re right. I have not had enough to drink to do this.”

“Okay, folks! Who’s ready for a fun night here at Cocktails & Chaos?” John grabs the microphone, and a bunch of guys holler excitedly, ready for the show to begin.

I watch as Rosie and Sage excitedly come running to the front of the crowd.

“You go! That’s my cousin!” Rosie screams.

I offer a small wave. I want to die.