The Crush

It's Not a Date

I still can not believe I agreed to this. Jordan better not ever question my loyalty or friendship with her. I can not believe I have agreed to go on a double date with Alex so she can go out on a date with her crush, Marcus Brown. I hope Alex doesn’t believe this is an actual date. We are simply babysitting.

Jordan wanted to go bowling for her first date with Marcus. This outing should be fun because I am great at bowling. I have also been accused of being super competitive. Which is an unfounded rumor. Sure, a few bowling matches have turned into shouting matches. It’s a passion. I am passionate about bowling. Yes, this outing should be fun, even with Alexander Tyler.

*Phone ring*

“Hello, Jordan,” I answered with annoyance.

“Yay, you didn’t run away from home to avoid this date.”

I sighed, “This isn’t a date. I am babysitting you and Marcus. I am receiving free food. I get to beat everyone at bowling. This is an outing.”

“I never agreed to buy your food.”

“Well, I hope you have fun on your date,” I said, smirking through the phone, knowing I had already won this argument before it started.

“Fine," Jordan shouted on the other end. "Food is on me. Are you ready?”

I had decided not to wear a dress or skirt of any kind during this outing. I picked clothes that made it clear I was chaperoning. I wanted an outfit that had nothing to do with romance. Jeans and a tee shirt would do. A plain white tee shirt says I am attempting to stay clean all night, so don’t bother me. My only makeup will be lip gloss. This is not a date. I will dress up for Alex.

“I’ll pick you up in about 15 minutes,” I said, pulling out the most random shirt I could find.

“For what?” Jordan asked.

Jordan has never declined a ride anywhere in her life. I am sure she asked for a ride out of the womb when she was born. She is one of those people that would drive to the corner store instead of walking the five minutes. And now, all of a sudden, Jordan doesn’t need a ride.

“What do you mean, 'for what'? I am the one with the car.” I said, confused.

Jordan giggled through the phone, “Marcus has a car.”

I knew it. Jordan never walks anywhere.

“You do need to pick up Alex, though," Jordan said quickly.

Wait, what? I knew this favor would end up biting me. Jordan can never just ask for a favor. She needs me to submit to her insanity fully. I could feel myself getting angry.

“Why would I do that? He has a car," I said.

“Yeah, but I want us all to arrive around the same time, and if Alex drives himself, then he will not arrive when we do.” Jordan is still talking fast. This means she is up to something, but I am unsure of what it is yet.

“Jordy, that makes no sense.”

Jordan huffed on the phone. I don’t want him arriving alone, so please pick up Alex. Yes, he could drive himself there, but I rather he didn’t.”

I could hear the strain in Jordan’s pleading voice. Now I know what it means to outstay your welcome.

“Alright,” I huffed back on the phone. I promised Jordan a favor, and I can’t back down now.

As I hung up with Jordan, I lay in my bed after she ironed out every detail of this outing. I thought about Lathan. He would be so upset knowing I had accepted a date with Alex. I can’t wait until he and I are a real couple, holding hands and walking the hall. I imagine the cloud of girls that follow him will be disappointed he didn’t pick them.

I had decided not to tell Lathan for that very reason. I don’t want him to feel threatened by someone that isn’t a thing. Because Alex isn’t a thing. We aren’t even really friends. He’s an associate at best. Someone that is always around because Jordan wills it so. I wish she could have taken on another for her friendship project. It’s clear as day she is doing him some kind of favor. My only question is, why?

***

It is almost 7:00 pm. I’m running late. How does my not caring how I look turn into an hour date routine? I don’t even know why I cared about ironing my clothes. Curse the fact I care so much about appearances. I blame my mom. She always said, “You never know who you may bump into.” And so far, she has been right every time.

I bump into someone every time I go out, not caring how I look. The look on their faces screams of seeing some kind of monster. I could see the discomfort on their faces as they figured out a way to avoid me or cut the conversation short. Yeah, no matter how it may be perceived, I have to look my best for this outing.

However, I did stay somewhat true to what I planned on wearing. I am wearing jeans, but instead of a plain tee shirt, I am wearing a pink top. And I am wearing lip gloss. I just added a little eyeshadow to it.

[Jordan]: Are you almost done getting dressed?

[Winter]: Yes. I’m leaving now.

[Jordan]; Are you wearing a dress or skirt?

[Winter]: Jeans! This is not a date, Jordan.

[Jordan]: Lol. Ok, relax. I was just asking a question.

I grabbed my car keys and headed for Alex.

As I drove up to Alex’s house, there were very few lights on. The first floor was bright as day, but the second story was dark as night. I beeped the horn, but no one came out of the house. Crap! I never got his number.

[Winter]: What is Alex’s number?

[Jordan]: I don’t have it. Why?

Jordan is lying. She has everyone’s phone number. She even has a few of the teachers’ phone numbers.

[Winter]: I’m in front of his house, and he isn’t out.

[Jordan]: Ring his doorbell.

This outing is starting to rub me the wrong way. To be honest, Jordan is rubbing me the wrong way. Why is she pushing this friendship on me? Jordan should accept that I don’t want to be Alex’s friend. Instead, she is doing everything to ensure he is in my space. I have never pushed anyone on her. I have never forced her to do anything in the name of friendship. And to be honest, I am questioning our friendship.

Jordan and I have been friends for what seems like forever; however, we don’t have anything in common anymore. The thought of us not being friends has kept us being friends, but there is no natural bond. We are not in the same classes; we don’t take part in the same extra-curriculum activities and do not have much time to hang out anymore. Is this her last hope for building a bond? Is Alex our mutual friend?

When I think about everything wrong with Jordan and my relationship, I think about the good times. No one makes me laugh like she does. No one stays on the phone all night when I’m anxious about a quiz. No one cheers me the loudest. No one encourages me the most. Yes, we don’t share all the same interests, but she loves me, and I love her. We are best friends.

*Doorbell*

If he doesn’t answer the door in one minute, I could say I tried and left. The door flings open. A lady with a huge hat with different feathers is standing at the door. “You must be Winter,” she smiled a warm smile. “Come in. Alex is pretending to be getting ready.”

“Pretending?” I said, bewildered.

“Yes. Alex has been waiting for you for about an hour now.” I looked at my phone and saw I was only 15 minutes late; however, I still apologized for my tardiness.

“It’s okay. I can see why he is nervous,” the woman said, winking.

I am confused. Does he think this is an actual date?

The woman sat in what I believe is the living room. I’m unsure because there are crazy paintings everywhere, yoga mats, and pictures of Alex and her all on the walls.

“Would you like something to drink?” She asked.

I smiled. The woman walked out towards the kitchen. She then handed me a cup of water with fruit in it. “The fruit makes the water sweet. We try to stay away from sugar.”

I smile again, unsure of what to say.

“Winter is such a beautiful name. I wish I had named Alex something unique. However, his father wanted a more traditional name, so he picked Alex. I wanted to name him Wolf.”

I slightly giggle at the thought of Alex’s name being Wolf.

“Your name fits you. You look like a Winter. Very soft, beautiful, and magical,” the woman smiled.

I smiled shyly.

She placed a hand over mine and said, “Don’t be shy. You are a beautiful girl.”

“I don’t know about magic.”

The woman moved closer to me as if she would whisper in my ear, “You are magical.”

“Whatever my mother told you is a lie,” Alex walked into the room.

I turned to a well-dressed Alex. He wasn’t wearing anything particularly dressy. He just looked cleaner than he usually looks. His hair was combed, his jeans were tailored for him, and he wore a shirt that matched his sneakers. I could tell he put great effort into his appearance. He smiled that cool smile that he always gave. As if he could read everyone’s thoughts.

His mother smiled and said, “I would never tell a lie, my wolf.” He walked up to his mother, kissing her cheek.

“Hi, Winter,” Alex said.

He called me by my name.

“Wolf, you told me she was pretty, but you never told me she was magical.” Alex looked me up and down, “I apologize. I thought it would be better to surprise you with it.” His mother grabbed both ends of Alex’s face and kissed both cheeks. “I want you two to have fun.” Alex made faces with each kiss and then turned to Winter.

“Let’s go. We’re already late.” Alex held a hand for me to take, and I did without thinking. What was wrong with me? It was like I was under a spell.

“Have fun on your date, you two,” Alex’s mother smiled as he led me out of the house. I attempted to tell her we were not on a date, but Alex beat me to it. “This isn’t a date. We’re making sure our friend enjoys herself during her date.”

I looked at Alex. What did he mean it wasn’t a date? I mean, it’s not, but he didn’t have to act as if it was a problem dating me. He should be lucky to say he is on a date with me.

“Sorry about my mom. She can be very intense.” Alex said, opening up the passenger side of the car. “I know this is your car, but if it’s alright, I would like to drive.”

I was shocked. First, Alex insults me in front of his mother, and now he wants to drive my car. Well, the joke is on him. I love being driven around. I threw him the keys.

As Alex drove, he kept his eyes on the road the whole time. At moments, I couldn’t help but look up at him. I could tell he had something on his mind.

I spoke to break the silence. “Your mom is very nice. She has this cool hippie chic thing going on. I like it.”

Alex chuckled, “Hippie chic. I have to tell her you said that. She’ll love it.”

I thought that would open up the conversation, but he focused only on the road. This guy who talks forever and a day is now as silent as a rock. What is wrong with him? We drove the whole way to the bowling alley in silence.

I could see Jordan dancing her cheerful dance as we walked to the front of the bowling alley from the parking lot. She ran to me and gave me a tight hug. “Finally! I thought you two ran away together.” Jordan said, hugging Alex next. Alex and Marcus shook each other's hands, and we all walked in.

Now I don’t like to brag, but bowling is my game. I have bowled a perfect score a few times. And today, I planned on showing off. I will make the most of it if I have to be here.

“Oh-oh, I believe Winter has left the building,” Jordan said, smirking.

Marcus smiled, “What do you mean?”

“This is Winter’s game. You don’t see the look in her eyes? She is about to destroy us.”

I grinned at the thought of this being my new reputation with Marcus and Alex. They were about to see the master of bowling in person. “I am not that good, just like bowling,” I said, clearly lying. I looked over at Alex, who was just focused on putting on his shoes.

I would be lying if I said the lack of attention I was getting from Alex wasn’t bothering me. He is the one that was so determined for us to be friends, and the one opportunity to prove it, he would rather be to himself. I am annoyed. Jordan elbows me to talk to him. Even Jordan looked a little worried. I sighed at the thought of me having to solve his bad mood, but I took on the task of making everyone happy and comfortable today.

“Hey, Alex,” I said, clearly upset.

He looked up at me, grinning, “Hey.”

“What are you doing?” I said, crossing my arms.

Alex’s eyebrows creased in confusion, “Tying my shoes.”

“No, I get that. I mean, what are you doing? You haven’t talked much, and it’s freaking me out.”

Alex straightens his body and looks at me. “So, I bother you when I talk, and I bother you when I don’t? Got it. Note taken.”

I wanted to scream at him, but I knew it wouldn’t work. “You don’t bother me, Alex,” I lied.

Alex’s eyebrows raised, “Yeah? Not even a little?” His smirk widened.

“No,” I lied again.

“Not even when I call you Winnie?”

I swallowed every once of annoyance I felt when he said my nickname. Alex watched me and chuckled. “You’re a jerk.” I pushed Alex’s arm. He made a face as if I hurt him. “Fine, be moody. Mr. Moody Pants.” I said, walking away.

I walked over to Jordan with my arms still crossed. “The boy is horrible,” Jordan smirked at my sore response toward Alex.

“Alex has a way of getting under your skin. Now you’re both cranky,” Jordan said, grinning.

I froze at the thought of Alex making me match his mood. I don’t want to mirror Alex. We are not connected in any way. I jumped up, shadowboxed, and got ready for the game. Also, pretending Alex didn’t get to me. “Let’s play!”

Alex grabbed a bowling ball and walked past me. He positioned himself and rolled, “STRIKE!” Crap, he can bowl.

We were down to our last roll. Jordan, pretending she didn’t know anything about bowling, had Marcus cuddling right on her. They giggled as their bodies pressed up to each other. Marcus whispered in her ear. Jordan playfully patted him on the arm.

Alex and I were tied. Both are on their way to a perfect score. I need him to be distracted for one second, and the game is mine. Alex bowled, “Strike, strike, and … strike.” I sighed; I guess I had to hope for a tie all the way around. I can’t believe he’s that good. Marcus gives Alex a high five, already congratulating him on a job well done. Jordan is clapping and cheering. Alex sits and gets back on his phone.

It was my turn. I took a deep breath and bowled. Strike. Jordan cheered as if she were watching a championship. I bowled again. Strike. “Go, Winnie!” Jordan says, still cheering. My last roll. Everyone in the bowling alley at this point was watching. I think they have never seen a competition so intense. I looked up to signal for everyone to be quiet. Then my phone pinged.

[Fortmann]: Are you always this beautiful while bowling?

I looked up, but I didn’t see Lathan. Where is he? And what is he doing here?

I took a deep breath and rolled. The ball was going slow. Slower than I have ever seen a ball roll. I knew I messed up. I looked at Alex, but he was still on his phone. Jordan was grabbing Marcus’s shirt in anticipation of seeing two perfect scores. But I knew by the way my ball was rolling there would only be one ideal score tonight. I got distracted. I got lost in my thoughts. Why did Lathan have to write to me now? I was trying to win. Maybe it was his way of letting me know he was watching. Watching from wherever he was.

The ball finally hit the pins, and all but one fell. I can’t believe it. I lost by one pin. I could hear the collective sigh of disappointment. I was so hurt. I rolled the ball again and hit the last pin. Everyone clapped, but I knew it was sympathy, not a congratulatory clap. Jordan ran over to me and hugged me, telling me I did good and how exciting the game was. I was disappointed and couldn’t hear her words. Marcus patted me on the back, telling me I did a good job as well. I looked up at Alex. He smiled. The first genuine smile he gave all night was due to my loss. What a jerk.

I looked around to find Lathan, but he was nowhere to be found. How did he know how I looked bowling if he wasn’t here? Does that mean Lathan isn’t Fortmann? And if he isn’t, who is? I felt a pit in my stomach at the thought I was talking to a stranger this whole time. I’ve told him things. Things I have never told anyone. I shared my deepest thoughts with Fortmann. I’ve wished for us to be together, and I have no idea who he is.

After the game, we ate pizza. I really couldn’t eat due to the thoughts of Fortmann. I was relieved when Alex said he was ready to go home. I wanted this night to end. Between Mr. Cranky Pants losing out on having a perfect score and Fortmann being some random stranger, I couldn’t handle it anymore. Jordan wrapped her arm in mine, and we walked out together. “Thank you, Winnie, for coming.” She hugged me. I wanted to be mad, but the hug wiped away my anger.

I noticed my shoes were untied as we continued to walk to the cars. I decided to tie them quickly. I don’t want my night to end with my face planted on the cement. That’s all I need. I mean, what else could happen?

“Hi.” I looked up from my shoes to see a very tall and handsome figure. I stood up to dust myself up.

“Hi,” I said, fixing my shirt.

“I never saw a girl bowl the way you did tonight. Girls usually pretend they can’t play to get us guys to hold them.”

I giggled as I looked at Jordan walking to Marcus’s car. “I guess,” as if I didn't know what he was talking about.

Lathan rubbed the back of his neck, “My bowling game is super weak. I am good at every sport, but bowling, can you believe it? Maybe I overthink it.” We both laughed.

“Maybe I can help you with that,” I tried my best at flirting.

He smiles, “Maybe.”

Jordan calls out to me, and I realize they are waiting for me to join them. “Your friends seem to be waiting for you.”

I looked back at them and then at him, “Yeah, they are. I’m sorry, I have to go.”

He gave a perfect smile, “No problem. Have a good night, Winter.”

“Good night Lathan.” He was there.