“Yes, I’ll be there. Hey I need to get going to class, see you guys later,” I say and leave Deena and Jason sitting at the table.
“Deena, is she still seeing the mystery guy?” Jason asks.
“As far as I know. I think she went away for the weekend with him.” Deena replies.
“Have you ever met him?”
“No, she’s so damn secretive about it. I’ve been tempted to follow her the next time she goes to meet him.”
“Hey, that’s and idea. Let me know what you discover,” Jason replies, heading off to class.
*****
Jason and I are studying together in the library tonight, and I can feel him staring at me so I look up from my laptop.
“What is it Jason?” I ask. feeling a little uncomfortable from his scrutiny.
“Are you still seeing that other guy? I never see you on campus with him.” Little does Jason know he sees me every day in the same room with him, our English classroom.
“Yes, I am,” I say, averting my eyes, afraid they will give something away. What exactly that is I don’t know, maybe I’m afraid Jason will see that I have feelings for him.
“He’s one lucky guy to have you so devoted to him. I wish I was in his shoes,” Jason presses.
“Look Jason, the only reason you think you want me is because I’m not dying to fall into bed with you,” I say boldly.
“That’s not true,” Jason denies.
“Yeah, keep telling yourself that. It’s better for both of us if we keep this at friends, you make a great friend. Besides, I refuse to be another notch in your bedpost,” I say.
“Hmm, so the thought has crossed your mind?” he teases.
“Jason you’re a tease. Please don’t press me for more than friends. I don’t want to lose you as a friend by sleeping together, okay?” He pauses for a long time just staring at me, as if he is trying to read me. I’m sure with his looks, body and family name he usually gets whatever and whomever he wants. The funny thing is the money part means nothing to me. Sure I like nice things, but in my short lifetime, I have already learned that money doesn’t buy happiness or the things that really matter in life. It doesn’t buy you love, friendship, oh and I can’t forget passion. I’ve learned of passion recently with my Professor. He’s another reason I must keep it at friends with Jason. For now at least.
“I suppose you may be right, Clarissa,” is all Jason replies, to my surprise. Well this is an awkward conversation. I try to resume studying for my Bio test to no avail. Then Jason starts talking about my ‘First Love’ English paper and makes a comment about the Professor and I know I need to get out of here. I pack up and he insists on riding me home.
When I get up into my bedroom and crawl in bed, that torn feeling is creeping into my mind. I’m just about to fall asleep when I hear Deena stumble into our dark room and she’s not alone! She has some guy with her. Oh God, Deena please don’t do this, I think squeezing my eyes closed tightly willing them to leave the room.
Then I hear them whisper and giggle softly as they fall onto her bed. This is making me sick, having to listen to her and whoever this lucky guy is. It lasts about thirty minutes and he gets dressed and leaves. I’m pissed at Deena, but I will confront her in the morning. I need my beauty sleep now.
EIGHT
JASON
I can’t figure out this thing I have with Clarissa. I want her in my bed. Yes, I admit that. Since the first day I saw her in class, I couldn’t help but notice that she has one incredible body, hey I’m a typical hot-blooded guy filled with testosterone. She’s pretty in a sophisticated way and she carries herself with class. Then once I started talking to her I noticed how really nice, cool and smart she is. I knew I wanted to get to know her better in more ways than one, but she would have none of it. She’s only willing to give me her friendship. I have to say, that’s got to be a first for me.