Private (Private 1)

“No,” I replied, feeling a smile form on my face.

popped that day, she’s either psychotic or passed out and dead to

“I am. In fact, I think we should eat lunch together alone from the world. Plus she hates me.”

now on,” he said. “Just you and me.”

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My stomach twisted slightly. “But what about—”

Thomas smiled in return. “I should go get this cleaned up,” he

“The Billings Girls?” he said. “Could someone please tell me

said, raising his hand.

what’s so great about the freakin’ Billings Girls?”

“Want me to go to the infirmary with you?” I asked.

I raised my eyebrows.

“Can’t go there. The nurse will have to inform the parents about

“I’m just trying to make friends here,” I said quietly.

something like this, and that’s the last thing I need,” he said,

“So be friends with me,” he said, moving closer. He kissed me

standing. “You go inside. Go back to your precious ‘friends,’” he quickly on the lips and my whole body tingled. “Why do you need said, air-quoting with one hand.

them when you’ve got me?”

I laughed and shook my head. But inside I was starting to feel

Because they have everything I have ever wanted. Because they uneasy. Could I date Thomas when the Billings Girls clearly dis-can teach me to be like them. Because if I’m with them I will have a approved of him? Could I hang out with the Billings Girls when

future.

Thomas clearly thought they were no good? Why did the two most

“A girl needs girlfriends,” I said simply.

important parts of my life here at Easton have to be at odds?

He pulled back. “And you think they are your friends,” he said I looked up at Thomas. All I wanted to do was hug him and pro-incredulously.

tect him and, of course, kiss him. A lot. Whenever humanly pos-

I squirmed. “They’ve always been nice to me.”