Chapter NINE

"So, thanks for being so nice to Aidan," Parker said into the phone, later that night.

   I was home, tucked into my bed after I'd showered, and Parker had just called me. Even though we had spent time together that evening, I was happy to see his name on my caller ID.

   "He's so sweet. And smart," I replied, turning onto my side.

   "He's... yeah, he likes you."

   "I like him, too."

   "Becca." He said my name, but it wasn't a question.

   "Yeah?" I asked anyway.

   Parker was too quiet, for a bit too long. I was impatient. My heart was racing.

   "My mom did say that I can go to the dance, because you're sweet, and kind. She's okay with me working, too."

   "Oh, wow. That's really awesome, Parker," I answered, relieved to hear that.

   "So, my mom and my brother like you,"

   "Good to know," I laughed. "I think my dad likes you. He said he can tell you respect the job."

   "Really?"

   "Uh huh."

   Parker sighed. "I knew you would be good... for me. Somehow, when I see you, I just feel better."

   I didn't know what to say to this, so I flipped back over to my back and said, "See you tomorrow? My mom is going to take us to the school, at 7."

   "What should I wear? Your dress is like a ball gown..." He sounded nervous again.

   "Not quite," I laughed. "And you shouldn't even have seen it yet."

   "Either way.. I don't have a suit."

   "You don't need a suit. Seriously, no dress code," I told him.

   "But... okay. I'll find something," he said, then sighed again.

   "Have a good day cleaning pools," I teased him, then yawned.

    "Have a good last day of school," he finished.

   Mostly, it was a good last day. There was so much anticipation and not much actual class time. The teachers were already in summer mode. In English, we talked about our summer plans. In last period, Mr. Cane basically sat at his desk and let us do whatever we wanted. The buzz and chatter was all about the dance.

   I was excited, but also nervous. I wanted to not care what anyone thought about me bringing Parker, but I knew everyone would be whispering. They didn't know him. I just wanted him to get to experience something normal.

   Right after Teah, Maddie and I finalized plans to meet at Teah's at 630P.M. - she lived around the corner from the school - I said goodbye to them and started my walk home. I had a couple of hours to shower, do my hair and get dressed. I knew Parker wouldn't be home until at least 5P.M.

   My mind was wandering when someone grabbed my arm.

   "Hey, Becca," Conner said, not letting go.

   I pulled my hand away. "Hey."

   "Can I drive you home?" he asked.

   "No, uh, I have to be somewhere," I said, without thinking. I didn't want to get back into his car.

   He looked confused. "Okay, well, I wanted to invite you to a party, after the dance."

   I stepped back a bit. My first reaction was to run, which was a bit surprising. This was a hot, popular, senior guy. It was pretty crazy that I was completely uninterested. 

   "Oh, um, I don't think I'm allowed." The words came out without much effort.

   Connor smiled. "Can you ask? It'll be really fun."

   "Okay, maybe." I just stood there awkwardly for another few seconds before I spoke again. "I have to go."

   "Yeah, see you tonight!" he called after me.

   It was almost 6 P.M. before Parker texted that he was home, and getting ready. I'd only eaten half a banana and some grapes - I was nervous. My stomach turned. Waiting another twenty minutes before he knocked on the door was torture.

   "Mom, we're ready!" I called through the house, after I let Parker in.

   She had agreed to drive us to Teah's, even though it was only a few blocks. I was wearing heels. I'd already gotten the lecture about no drinking, drugs or parties. I had to be home by 11:30P.M.

   When she appeared, her eyes were wide. I saw her blink a few times before smiling, like a delayed reaction. Finally she nodded and grabbed her keys.

   "Let me take a photo," she said, pulling out her phone. "You both look great."

   I felt good. The dress fit me perfectly and my hair had co-operated after I washed it. I had on more make-up than usual and I'd seen how Parker looked at me when I opened the door. He looked good, too. He wore black dress pants a dark blue dress shirt, tucked in. He smelled good, too. 

   My mom took a few pictures before we went back outside, where Parker's mom and Aidan were now on their porch, waiting.

   "Ah! Look at you two together!" Mrs. Allen called over, gushing. "Be good! Have fun!"

   I waved over and Parker nodded, embarrassed.

   No one spoke in the car and I was glad it was only a three minute drive. Parked on the road by Teah's house, my mom turned around from the front seat. She looked right at me, then at Parker. When she glanced back to me, she smiled.

   "Call if you need a ride. Home by 11:30P.M. Have fun."

   I nodded. "Yeah. Thanks, Mom."

   "Thanks Mrs. Wallace," Parker agreed, before opened the car door to get out.

   At Teah's door, I knocked, as Parker stood just behind me. My heart was beating too fast and as the door opened, I took in a breath, hoping for the best.