Page 1 of Wild Mistake
PROLOGUE
SARAH
“Sarah,why don’t you clock out early?”
“You sure?”
“We’re closing soon, and I know all about the parties happening this weekend, first weekend of summer and all. I’m sure you must be dying to join your friends. Or maybe aspecial someone?”
I’m certain the entire town knows I’m head over heels in love with Aiden Wilder, but my cheeks heat anyway at her insinuation. “I don’t want to leave you with all the closing tasks.”
“Child, I’ve been running this diner since before you were born. I can do the work in my sleep. Go on, now. You’ve earned it.”
“Thank you, Marnie.” I untie my apron and rush into the back to grab my bag and clock out. The night air is crisp, the cold of spring holding on a little too long, and goose bumps prickle my bare arms. I could use a sweatshirt but I didn’t pack one. No matter; my body will warm up on the walk to the creek. If I’m lucky, everyone will be there and I can catch a ride home with Aiden.My boyfriend. My boyfriend, Aiden Wilder! A smile spreads across my face as I pick up my pace.
I don’t think I’ll ever get over the fact Aiden Wilder is mine.
I’ve crushed on him since grade school, though it wasn’t love at first sight for him. He barely paid me any attention until my sophomore year, after the summer I went to visit my aunt and uncle in Seattle. Being away from my family for the first time, I developed a sense of style, confidence, and, well, boobs. It was my chest that garnered the attention of my classmates upon my return for the first day of school. But I didn’t care about anyone other than Aiden.
For the first time, he was looking at me. He wanted me, and I wasn’t going to waste my chance at the boy I’d been secretly in love with for years.
Now, almost two years later, we were together and in love, planning a future for when I graduate next year. He was only six months older, but because of our birthdays he was a year ahead in school. It was annoying because next year I wouldn’t get to see Aiden every day. He’d be working for his family on their ranch, saving up, while I finished high school and worked nights at the diner. But a year from now it’d be worth it.
The sounds of voices and laughter carry with the wind as I turn down the path toward the creek. The breeze grazes my exposed skin and a shiver runs up my spine. Thankfully, the moon is full, lighting up the path ahead.
It’s only another ten minutes before I reach the clearing. Aiden’s truck is backed up next to his friends, the vehicles forming a semi-circle around a small campfire with the tailgates down for ample seating. His entire graduating class— all of three dozen seniors—and several other familiar faces from town gather around, drinking, laughing, and dancing. My eyes immediately scan the crowd for Aiden. When I don’t spot him, my pulse races, and not in a good way.
“Looking for someone?” Hands settle around my waist.
I jump, despite the familiar voice.
Aiden’s good-natured chuckle whispers against my ear.
I spin to face him, my eyes wide with surprise. “You scared me!”
“You were looking for me, weren’t you?” His lips curve with his smile.
I roll my eyes and bite back my own smile. “Who else would I hike through the woods at night to meet?”
His brow furrows. “I don’t like you doing that. I would have come to pick you up.”
“Marnie let me go early.”
“Next time wait for me.”
“Okay.” I shrug, looping my arms around his neck. I push onto my toes for a kiss.
He pulls back. “I’m serious. It’s not safe. Promise me.”
“Fine.” I pout. “Now, are you going to kiss me?”
His expression relaxes into an easy smile. “Always, baby.”
Butterflies take up residence in my belly as his lips seal against mine and he pulls me closer. People cheer and laugh around us. Someone yells, “Get a room!” My body warms with embarrassment and I pull away.
“Come on.” Aiden takes my hand and tugs me away from the crowd. “There’s something I want to show you.”
“Yeah, he does.” One of Aiden’s classmates slaps him on the shoulder, then gestures rudely with his hips.
