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We’re both laughing and panting when we reach the tables of pumpkins.
The guy in charge looks at us like we’re aliens. “It’s five bucks a person to join.”
I slap a ten on the table, and we find seats.
Maia hands me a five from her small purse, and I hand it right back.
“Don’t worry about it. Thanks for leaving the party with me.”
“Aw, thanks, Rhett. If I knew you were such a great friend, I would’ve hung out with you more often.” Her voice drips with sarcasm.
I chuckle. This girl gets my humor. “Ditto. Now get ready to be dominated.”
We get our pumpkins, and the carving begins.
* * *
Obviously, Maia totally blew me out of the water, which I had a feeling would happen. I knew I would suck at it, but I wanted to stretch the night out longer. Spend more time with her.
“Pay up, big talker.” Maia holds her hand out, palm face up.
I slap her hand with mine. “I owe you.”
She narrows her eyes and purses her lips. Since when did she become so damn adorable? Or maybe I never noticed or paid much attention. But I am now.
“No owing allowed. You pay or get played.”
A laugh bursts from my mouth. I can’t help it; she’s too cute for her own good. “Get played, huh? Tell me what getting played involves. I might want to consider the option.”
Maia scowls but proudly holds up her jack-o’-lantern. “You sound like a jealous loser.” She bites her lip, and I watch as she tries to unsuccessfully hide her grin.
“Nah, I can accept a loss. All great winners do.”
“Psshhh,” Maia says. “Winners don’t have to.”
“All winners lose eventually. Still doesn’t take away the desire to compete.” We walk away from the tables and move farther into the party. There are more games, food, drinks, and a costume contest.
“Ah, you’ve got a secret competitive side?”
“Can’t help it. Must be the Leo in me.”
Her mouth drops slightly. “You know your zodiac sign?”
“Yes, why is that such a surprise?”
“Most guys don’t. But I think it’s cool. I love astrology.”
“I find it interesting. Don’t hold out on me, though. What’s your sign? Wait.” I hold up my hand. “Let me guess.”
Maia grins. “This shall be good.”
I study her like it’ll give me the answer. I have no clue, but I’m leaning toward maybe a strong earth or fire sign.
I’m decent at reading other people's personalities, probably because my entire family is full of different ones. I’ve learned to read expressions, to listen for what’s not being said, and to avoid conflict. I hate conflict and do my best to squash it. Flyin’ low is my motto. But this isn’t about me.
It’s about this pretty friend of mine who I’ve often overlooked and now wonder why I ever did.
My mind runs through all of the different memories of our friend group, like a movie trailer on speed. She’s friendly, sociable, and gets along with everyone. Since Alex, she’s been around less, but that doesn’t mean I haven’t heard the girls talk about how her smile is a lot dimmer.
