Chapter 1

Im sorry, Nori, but Princeton just wont work out. Theres not enough time to get your grades up, considering that applications are due next month. My heart fell. Im not going to Princeton. I never once thought that those five words would cross my mind. I slowly stood up and slung my backpack over my shoulder. Turning my back on Mrs. Brigsteen, I slumped out of her office. Wait! Nori! We can discuss your other options! She shouted after me. Other options? There were no other options. It was all or nothing. And in this case it was nothing. The smudged figures that passed by me paid no attention. They looked so happy and carefree. They are probably going to the college of their choice. A voice inside my head added. I reached my locker and pressed my back to it, sliding down to the ground. Cambell! There you are! Come on! Were all going to dinner to celebrate and according to my watch, you wont have enough time to get ready. Nori? Ethans voice grew quieter as he took in my expression and he sat on the ground beside me. Nori, whats wrong? My blonde curls fell in my face as I tried to hide my tears. Ethan pulled into his arms and I sobbed. I never cried. Which was probably why Ethan seemed so alarmed. I tucked my head into his chest and he stroked my hair. Shhh Nori, Shhh. Its okay. Now tell me whats wrong. He pushed my chin up with his fingers, so I was staring straight into his deep blue eyes. I caught my breath and made sure I wasnt going to cry before I spoke. Im not going to Princeton. I whispered. He wiped below my eyes with his thumb and I saw mascara on his fingers. I laughed quietly and shook my head. I probably look hideous right now. Youre too beautiful to ever look anything other than it. Ethan whispered. Thank youtoo bad that wont get me into Princeton. I laid my head on his chest and I listened to his steady heartbeat. His soft breaths filled my ears and I sighed. Nori, I know Princeton was your first choice, but there are other options He said carefully. No. No, there arent. There are no other options! I whined softly. We have another seven months before we graduate, so another day shouldnt put us off track. Come to dinner, have a good time, then discuss this with your parents.

Ethan, you dont understand. Theres nothing to discuss. If I were to go to college, I would go to Princeton. And since Im not going to Princeton, Im not going to college. Always so stubborn. He chuckled to himself. I turned my head to look up at him and smiled. I love you. He whispered, his breath caressing my face. I closed my eyes and nodded. His lips hit mine and I weakly responded. He pulled away and took my face between his hands. Were going to forget about this until later and have a good time tonight, okay? I slowly nodded and Ethan helped me off the ground. You need a ride home? He asked, taking my hand in his. Yes. I slid my huge coat on and grabbed my things before leaving. My fingers wrapped around Ethans knuckles and I marveled at his smooth, warm hands with my fingers. The gorgeous, thick snowflakes fell heavily from the sky, landing on my eyelashes and tangling in my hair. I scampered to the heated car and hopped in, breathing a sigh of relief. Ethan reached the car a couple seconds after me and started the engine. I turned the heat notch all the way up and laid my head back, shutting my eyes. Snow suits you. Ethan said, running his finger along my eyelashes. I laughed and basked in the wonderful warmth. Ill pick you up around six okay? That gives you two hours to get ready. Is that enough? Ethan asked, backing out of the school parking lot. I punched his hard arm and rolled my eyes. I think I can handle basic math and yes, thats plenty of time. Who else is coming? I watched the snowfall, taking in all of its beauty. My grandma always said, The best things in life are free. So dont let pass them by. Stop and admire their beauty. She told me that before she died and Ive taken every small thing to heart since then. Sasha and Greg and Mandy and John. He kept his eyes focused on the icy road, going at a slow speed. Oh, so were doing a triple date? I waggled my eyebrows and turned on the radio quietly. Yeah, I guess so, but we could always go back to my place after He suggested. I laughed and sang along to the song. He pulled up to my large house. I unbuckled myself and slumped in the seat. Going into that storm was the last thing I wanted to do, even if the front door was only a few yards away. Ethan leaned across the seat and lightly kissed my lips. I didnt even see my response coming. I dove at him, causing us both to end up laying in the drivers seat, me on top of him, with our feet pressed against the passenger window. He chuckled and wound his fingers through my hair, forcing our lips to meet. I slipped my tongue between his lips and I felt both his

hands slip under my shirt, resting on my lower back. He began kissing my neck and then there was a rap of the window. I turned around and blushed beat red, seeing my mom looking through her cupped hands, into the window. I climbed back into the passenger seat and opened the door. I snatched my backpack and climbed out into the deep snow. Bye, Ethan. I said quickly and quietly, before shutting the door. He sped away, obviously trying to avoid an awkward conversion with my mom that has already happened one-too-many times. Ethan and I have been dating since we were freshmen. My mom walked in on our first kiss in my basement and she gave us the entire sex talk. Ethan and I didnt speak until a week after. I laughed under my breath at the memory and walked passed my purple-faced mother. You think this is funny? She shouted from behind me. I rolled my eyes and turned around. I dreaded the fights between my mom and me. They only last for a few minutes, an hour at most, but it always ends in one of us storming off, because she cant accept that Im right. If were going to fight, can we at least do it inside? Its freezing out here. Oh, sure honey. She wrapped her arms around me and led me through the front door. The doorway was like a line between spring and winter. My house was floral and warm and smelled like a field of flowers. I glared at the snow and turned to my mom. Were you crying? She outlined the puffiness below my right eye with her index finger. No I said. She could tell I was lying. Oh, baby, Im sorry. I didnt meant to make you cry. Its no big deal. Teenagers kiss and Ill accept that, but only kiss, okay? I dont want you to get pregnant. I blushed as she placed her hand on my flat stomach. She wrapped her arms around me, holding me. I dont want to get pregnant. Dont worry mom, if I do have it, I promise Ill be safe. I hate it when we fight. I added extra emotion to the last sentence, beginning to feel awkward. Me too, sweetheart, me too. She released me and smiled with her thin lips. For forty-one, she was still so beautiful. Her almost icy blue eyes were sparkling with youth and her shoulder-length, straight blonde hair shined. The way she walked, you could tell that she flaunted her thin figure, but my mom was never one to be selfish or irresponsible. She was a so much like my grandma. I smiled back admirably. I hope you dont mind, but Im going out to dinner with Ethan and a few other people tonight. Not at all, darling. Have a good time. She rubbed my shoulder and turned away, walking back to the kitchen. I could hear reruns of Oprah from our kitchen TV all the way from the main hall. I laughed

and shook my head. Slinging my backpack over my shoulder, I kicked off my boots and trudged up the stairs. My bedroom door creaked, as it swung open. I slammed it shut, tossed my backpack onto my beanbag chair, and plopped on my bed. Peeking at the time forced me to gasp. Five oclock? How did it get so late? Locking my bedroom door, I shed my clothes and hopped in the shower. The battle that occurred between myself on whether or not to stay in the shower, lasted for a good ten minutes. That just gave me another ten minutes to stay under the warm water, so I decided to get out. I wrapped a towel around myself and slid the glass shower door shut. The black dress and little, white, button-up sweater I chose looked dazzling, if I do say so myself. To speed up the drying process, I took a blow dryer to my hair, allowing the natural curls and crimps to form. I slid in a black headband and stepped into white peep-toe heels. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw the white fluff falling from the sky out my window. I groaned and stuffed the heels in my purse along with my wallet and lip-gloss. I applied some mascara and silver eye shadow before checking the time again. Five fifty-three. I padded down the carpeted stairs and slipped on my soft boots. I shrugged into my long, grey jacket and put on matching gloves and a hat for extra warmth, that, by the looks of the weather, I wasnt going to get. I heard a car honk outside and I slung my bag on my elbow, exiting the house. The snow was like a slap in the face. I closed my eyes for a second, to collect myself, then walked to the passenger side. I pulled on the handle and hopped in. Slamming the door as quickly as possible, I let my body sink in the warmth. You look happy. Ethan chuckled. Thanks to your wonderful, wonderful car. Keeping my eyes closed, I blindly buckled myself. We arrived at The Cheesecake Factory and, God bless his heart, Ethan dropped me off at the front entrance. The beautiful chandelier, hanging above the waiting area of the restaurant, gave the entire restaurant a warm, homey feeling. Nori! Over here! I heard Sasha call. I turned around and smiled at the two couples sitting at a table. I waved and walked to the table. Sashas dark skin was smooth and almost golden from the chandelier lighting. She was with Greg, the quarterback of the football team and her boyfriend. He smiled, his pearly white teeth standing out from his caramel skin. Mandys flowing brown hair was a bit messy. I pointed to my hair, trying to let her know, but she just pointed to John. John smiled sheepishly and shrugged. He ran his hand through his blonde hair, winking at me.

Making out in the bathroom again? I asked, taking a seat next to Mandy. She smiled innocently and licked her lips. I shivered and turned away to make a gagging noise. Oh please, Nori. We were caught making out in my car earlier today by her mom. Ethan said, coming up from behind me. The whole group laughed and I look away, blushing. Ethan kissed one my hot cheeks and took a seat across from me. So, did your mom slit your throat, or what? John asked. Surprisingly, she just told me to be responsible and then she went back to watching Oprah. I answered, taking a piece of bread in my hands. See Greg? I told you, Oprah Winfrey is the solution to all problems! Nori and Sashas lecture was interrupted when Greg stuck a piece of bread between her lips. We all clapped when he did that and Sasha continued eating the bread. So howd the college meeting go Nori? Are you going to Princeton? Mandy asked. Luckily, the waiter came and took our drink orders. Like I was saying, are you going to Princeton? Mandy twirled a strand of her dark hair around her finger, nibbling on a piece of bread. I took a deep breath and half smiled. No. My voice cracked. OhNori, Im so sorry. Mandy hugged me and frowned in sympathy. I shrugged trying to swallow the lump in my throat. Let it out. Greg said. I took a deep breath and nodded. Princeton was my only chance at a future. Both my parents went threr and thats where they fell for each other. Do you have any idea how disappointed theyll be when they hear that I didnt make it in? All because my grades are too low! Now Im not going to go to the college of my dreams. Theres no more hope left inside of me. I had walked over to sit on Ethans lap during my speech. What if Greg began. Yes? I asked, looking up at him. Never mind, it was a dumb idea. Greg, your flattening my already-crushed dreams. Tell me. Nathaniel Baker. He said simply. And he is? The name didnt sound familiar. The deans son. Okay, what does he have to do with anything? Convince him to talk to his dad about letting you in. Youre expecting me to flirt my way into Princeton? I was shocked, considering that Greg was always the do-gooder. Not flirt. Seduce. The word rolled off his tongue and I felt a smile forming on my lips.

Chapter 2
No. Ethan said shaking his head. No? Youre not going to use a guy to get into Princeton. I was still on Ethans lap as he brushed my hair behind my ear. Thanks for your concern dad, but I think Im going to do whatever I want. I said acidly. He was beginning to make me mad. Ethan has never been very possessive. Is Ethan jealous? Mandy asked, smiling widely. No Im not. I justdont think its the right way to get into college. You spend years in school for a reason. Ethan defended himself, winding his arms around my waist. The waiter brought out our food and I walked back to my seat, waiting for Ethan to accept loss. Oh please Ethan, dont be so possessive. You guys love each other and you have to have faith in your relationship. Sasha said, stabbing a noodle and tossing it into her mouth. We all stared at her, mouths gaping. What? Oprah finally taught me something. Sasha said matterof-factly and lightly slapped Greg on the cheek. He rolled his eyes and took a bit of his burger. Ethan, you gotta trust me. Im pursuing my dream. I wouldve wanted you to follow your dream if the roles were switched and if that meant flirting with another girl, then so be it. Dont you want me to follow my dream? My bottom lip jutted out and I began to pout. Ethan reached across the table and stroked my cheek. Of course I want you to follow your dream. Youre right. I trust you and I trust us. I smiled at him and leaned over to peck him on the lips. Woah you guys! Not on the table! John practically shouted. His face fell flat and his eyes began to look dazed. I saw that one of Mandys shoes was under her chair. Considering that they were sitting across from each other, I didnt even want to think about what Mandy was doing with her bare foot to make John look like that. Check please. Greg said to the waiter. Mandy and John excused themselves and I groaned in disgust. I feel bad for the people who are in that bathroom. Sasha said, shaking her head. It doesnt look like they made it to the bathroom. Greg added, looking past me. I turned around and saw Mandy, her legs wrapped around Johns waist, kissing his neck as he carried her into a closet.

Hormonal maniacs. Greg said, making a gagging noise. We laughed and the waiter came back with the check. We all paid our part and Sasha paid for John and Mandy. I think we should just leave. Ethan slipped on his jacket and helped me put mine on. Yeah. Sasha and Greg said slowly, nodding. Ethan and Greg went to pull up their cars while Sasha and I sat on the waiting benches. Theyre usually faster then this. Sasha looked at her phone and her eyebrows rose. I laughed and shrugged. Maybe I began, but the thought seemed impossible. Maybe what? What if their relationship isnt just based on it anymore? You think they love each other? Neither of them knows the definition of love! Thats why theyre so perfect for each other. Dont be stupid Nori. Sasha was wiping the hysterical tears below her eyes. I guess your right. Theyre here. Lets go. We braced ourselves for the snow that was still falling. Do you two want to come back to my house? I asked, hugging Sasha goodbye. Ill talk to Greg and call you. Bye! I jumped into the car with Ethan and buckled myself. Sasha and Greg might be coming to my house; can you stay for a while? Yeah, sounds good. It was a nice, quiet ride home thanks to the hot air that put me in my own little world. Gregs car was sitting in the driveway when Ethan parked. I tucked my boots and purse under my arm, deciding to wear my heels to the door. The ankle-deep snow caused my to whimper each time I took a step. Ethan eventually picked me up, cradling me, and walked me the rest of the five feet. He set me down inside and I kicked off my heels, running to the nearest heater. My frozen toes curled in pain and Ethan laughed, rubbing my bare shoulders. Lets go upstairs; I think I heard Greg in your room. He took my hand and led my up there. When I walked in, Greg was on my laptop and Sasha was going through my closet. Sure, you go right ahead and make yourselves at home. I said, throwing my purse on my desk. They both turned to me and smiled. I scoffed and rolled my eyes. Ethan laid on my bed and opened his arms to me. I threw myself in them and shut my eyes, relaxing. No way! Nathaniel Baker just started school at NYU. We could drive up there next weekend if we really wanted to. Greg said, staring at the computer screen. NYU? So hesa freshman in college? How do you know who he is anyway? I asked. I could feel Ethan tense. Yes, hes in college. We went to camp together when we were twelve and we kept contact for a while, but I havent talking to him in a

year. So how do we get you two to meet? Gregs eyes glazed over in thought. Facebook him. Sasha said, pushing aside hangers. Yeah, but how are going to be positive that hell want to approach Nori? Ethan asked. We have to make her irresistible. And youre not coming Ethan. Sasha said holding an old shirt up to her. What? Ethan snapped. Youre jealousy will get in the way of Noris acting. If Nathaniel Baker even touches her, youll get all wide-eyed and possessive. Which will ruin the whole plan. Sasha shrugged and began ruffling through my drawers. Nori? Ethan looked to me for support. II agree with Sasha. I love you, but Im never going to get into Princeton with you around Ethans arms dropped away from me and I turned over so that I was on top of him, looking directly into his eyes. Dont be like that Ethan. Youve got to trust me on this. I pressed my forehead to his. He snaked his arms around my waist and pulled my lips to his. I didnt object, tangling my fingers in his hair. I heard Greg and Sasha groan, but I didnt stop. When I felt Ethans hands reaching for the zipper on my dress, I pulled away. There are other people here. I quietly scolded him. He chuckled and brushed back my falling hair. Hes going to Rockefeller Plaza to skate tomorrow. Greg said. How do you know? Ethan propped himself up on his elbows. I heard him mumble something that sounded like gay. I punched Ethans shoulder and he rolled onto his back once again. His status says. Hes going around three. Perfect. Then you, Sasha, and I will leave around one-thirty tomorrow. I said, playing with Ethans long, tan fingers. Sounds good. Well be here by one. Greg stood up and straightened his jacket, leaving my computer open, but facing away from Ethan and I. Bye you guys. Dress warm! As soon as the door shut, I was under Ethan. He kissed up my neck, nipping in some areas, and his hands seemed almost aggressive as they held my face. I sat up and pushed Ethan off me. What is wrong with you? I barked at him. His eyebrows scrunched. Why are you doing this? He shouted. Doing what? Im not as important as your dreams? Do you know how much that hurts? Ethan questioned, acidly. I was beginning to get angry. Are you kidding me?! Ethan, your dream has always been to go to Yale and become a lawyer! What if I was the one who was in the way of that dream? Which would you choose?

II dont know. But I didnt have to go after someone else to get into college! Yeah, well sorry were not all as smart as you Ethan! If this is what I have to do to get into Princeton then Ill do it! Even if that means the end of us? Ethans question took me off guard. My eyes softened and a lump rose in my throat. Ethan wrapped his arms around me and shook his head. I overreacted. Im sorry. Do what you have to do to get into Princeton. He lightly kissed my lips and got off the bed. I think Im going to go. Good luck tomorrow. He smiled and took my hand in both of his. Ethan kissed my hand then my forehead. I love you. I whispered. I love you too. He softly shut the door behind him. I slipped on sweatpants and an old swim team t-shirt, putting my hair in a messy bun. After wiping off my makeup, I felt fresh. I shut off my lights, but noticed that my laptop was still open on the beanbag chair. Curiosity got the best of me and I looked at the screen. It was open to Nathaniel Bakers profile. The first thing I noticed was that he was exactly a year older then me. Which was pretty cool. Second thing was that he wasabsolutely gorgeous. He was so good looking. I smiled at his profile picture and shut my laptop, placing it on my desk. Tomorrow would be fun and I was excited. I barely got any sleep, because I was so fidgety and nervous. I woke up at ten and plotted to the bathroom. I gasped at the sight of my reflection. Pulling on my eyes and splashing my face with water did no good for the bags that were practically caves on my face. I took a quick shower and put on a pair of comfortable jeans and a sweater. The sweater was one that my grandma had given me for my birthday two years ago. My makeup helped with the bags a bit, but I still wasnt the prettiest sight. I straightened my hair and clipped it back on one side. The smell of fast food drew me to the kitchen before I was done ready, though. Momwhat? You never get fast food. I stared at the McDonalds bag, my mouth watering. I know, but I thought maybe we could have a fun motherdaughter day and cheat Youre going out arent you? Watching her face fall made me feel horrible. Umyes. Well, thats alright. Maybe tomorrow? Where are you going? Rockefeller Plaza with Greg and Sasha to skate. Ethans not going? Nope. Well, have fun sweetheart. You can still have the food. Her lips parted for a small smile and she turned on her heel, walking towards

her workout room. I shook my head and put a French fry in my mouth. I guiltily grabbed the whole bag and went back up to my room. I sat on my bed for a while with my laptop until I heard a knock on my bedroom door. Come in! Greg and Sasha came in lookingpuffy. I laughed at their appearance and closed my laptop, putting it to the side. Shut up, Nori! We wanted to be warm! Sasha shouted. Your jackets are huge! I was laughing so hard it hurt. I eventually got control of myself and grabbed my huge jacket and slipped it around me. Looks like your joining the club, you hypocrite. Greg said, chuckling. I smiled and grabbed my scarf and gloves. I dove into the back of Gregs SUV and bathed in the heat that was blowing towards me. The drive was no more then a half hour, but the walk from out parking space to the rink added about forty-five minutes. When we arrived, we each paid for our skates and tied them on. After about five minutes I was done. My cheeks were scarlet from the chill and my joints were frozen. But no, I had to find Nathaniel Baker before we left. What Sasha says, goes. I rubbed my gloves against my cheeks and watched my feet as I skated around. Ooof! My skates caught on someone elses and I fell, landing on top of them. I am so sorry. I looked down into the deep aqua eyes of Nathaniel Baker and my heart almost melted. He shrugged and smiled revealing a perfect set of white teeth. His grin had an adorable slant to it too. No worries, Im fine. He said. I nodded, not moving. Sodo you skate a lot? He asked, searching my eyes. Umuhhyes! I used to take lessons when I was younger. My mind trailed off and I lay on top of him in silence once again. He tilted his head up a bit, so his mouth was by my ear. People are staring. His breath on my neck sent chills down my back. I smiled, and then realized what he said. Oh! Yeah. I laughed and got off him. I craved the warmth of his body as soon as I stood up. I offered my hand and pulled him up. Thanks He said, patting down his chestnut hair that reached his ears and fell over his forehead. Yeah, sorry about that. I blushed deeply and looked down at my feet. His gloved hand was under my chin, pulling it back up to meet his eyes. I dont think you should look a your feet while your skating anymore. Plus, why hide those beautiful eyes? He asked, chuckling. I bit my lip and half smiled. Im Nate. Its nice to meet you. I placed my hand in his extended hand and held on.

Im Nori. Its nice to meet you too. He kept hold of my hand as he stared into my eyes. Umdo you want to grab hot chocolate after this? He asked, cocking his head. I smiled and nodded. We slowly began circling the rink, side by side. Did you come here with someone? He asked, rubbing his hands together. Yeah, my two friends. Theyre actually right over there. I pointed. Sasha was on the ground and Greg was in the process of falling. Did you come with anyone? I asked, circling him. Nope. I just came to enjoy the view. I nodded, looking around me. It really was a spectacular sight. Although it was freezing, it was worth it. I love it here. I did a little spin, spreading my arms, to gesture to everything. Me too. He grabbed one of my arms and stopped me, mid-spin. I almost fell again, but he caught me. I think youre trying a little too hard. He laughed and helped me get flat on my feet again. That time was your fault! I defended my clumsiness and giggled. He shook his head and focused my pink cheeks. You look cold He mentioned. Just a little. I said sarcastically. Are you ready to go then? Sure, just come with me so I can tell them Im leaving. I skated to one corner of the rink where Greg and Sasha were laughing. This is Sasha and this is Nate interrupted me. Greg. We went to camp a couple years ago. I thought I recognized him. Nate said. Hey man! They hugged each other quickly and Sashas eyes widened, while looking at Nate. Nate and I are going to get hot chocolate. Do you want to meet somewhere? I can call you when were done. I said, running my fingers through my hair. Well, its getting kind of late and Greg and I wanted to go out to dinner so Sasha trailed off, but Nate finished her sentence. I can take Nori out to dinner if she wants and we can meet after that? He looked at me quickly and I nodded. Sounds good. Well call you. Greg and Sasha skated off, waving. You ready? Nate asked. Sure.

Chapter 3
What do you say to Panera? I asked, skipping out in the freezing New York air. What do they serve there? Nate chuckled and tucked his fists in his pockets. Youve never been? Let me think about that, bread, bread, and more bread. I looked back and smiled. The tip of his nose was the brightest of reds, which caused me to laugh under my breath. Do I look that ridiculous? Bread sounds great. His strides became longer as he tried to catch up with me. You have the longest legs of any girl Ive ever met. He finally matched his steps with mine and we were walking side by side. I laughed at his comment and shrugged. Thanks? Its right around the corner. I looked up at the pink sky and stopped. Are you okay? Nate asked, turning to look back at me. The first flakes hit my eyelashes and stuck there. Which brought my mind back to Ethan. I shivered at the guilt that filled me. Yes. Im fine. Come on, its cold. I wrapped my slim fingers around Nates wrist and pulled him inside. We ordered and took our foot to a small booth in the corner of the restaurant. So tell me about yourself. I said, putting a spoonful of chicken soup in my mouth. Im a freshman at NYU. Um, Im born and raised in New York My dads the dean at Princeton University I cant imagine hes too pleased with your decision of colleges? I guessed. Not really, but its not like it was his choice. What college do you go to? My cheeks flamed when he asked this question. Im hoping Princeton. I said quietly, not wanting the fact that Im younger to get in the way of our connection. Oh His voice caught in his throat. Youre a, uh, senior? In high school? I nodded unsurely, my blonde curls bouncing around my face. Well, thats cool. So youre hoping to get into Princeton? Did you already turn in your application? I felt my eyes begin to moisten and I rubbed them with my palms. No... I said quietly, messing with my hair nervously. Oh.hey, dont worry about it. Theres still time. He said, setting his hand over mine. I smiled, wiping away my senseless tears.

Thanks. So, uh, why NYU instead of Princeton? I slid my hand from his, pushing my hair behind my ear. This Ethan thing was beginning to take over my mind. Good question, He shrugged and took a long sip of his coffee. Ever felt like you just know when somethings right? Of course. I used to use that tactic all the time during tests. He let out a short chuckle. Well thats just how it felt. I love NYU, couldnt imagine being anywhere else. I admire that. Although everyone expects you to go to Princeton, you do what you want. You do what you feel. I slumped back in the booth, messing with my grey knit mittens. Theyre the kind with the removable top, so they can be mittens or fingerless gloves. Where are you from in New York? He took a leisurely gulp of his steaming chicken noodle soup. Oyster Bay, I smiled at the thought of my home. You? Manhattan. How does that work with your dad working in New Jersey? I stay with my mom and we see him when we can. He gathered our trash and went to put the dishes on the counter. My phone did the Kim Possible jingle and it was a text from Sasha saying she and Greg were ready to go if I was. Youre leaving? Nate guessed as we walked out into the bitter cold. Yeah, but thank you for dinner and the skating tips and stuff. I laughed a turned toward. Any time. Do you..want to exchange numbers? Maybe we could do this again next time youre in the city. Id love to. His sigh almost sounded like relief and he passed his phone over to me. I quickly typed in my number and handed him his phone back. I purposely didnt give him my number. I didnt want to want to be with him. I was with Ethan. I shouldnt like this guy. We awkwardly stood face to face, unsure of how to say goodbye. He took a stiff step forward and planted a light kiss on my lips. And that was it. I lost it. The whole fireworks, boom bang, the big explosion. It happened. I took a step backward that probably looked more like a stumble. Ill call you, He said coolly, walking off into the crowds. I brushed my pink fingers over my lips. It almost stung, putting the cold on my heated lips. This isnt good. I practically floated back to the rink, only thinking of that kiss. My kisses with Ethan were nothing like that. Nori? Sasha grabbed by arm as I almost walked past her. Huh? Are you okay? Sasha slightly shook me, raising her perfect eyebrows. Greg, we didnt send her to dinner with a creep did we?

Last I checked, no. But I havent talked to the guy in a year. Greg rubbed his large hands up and down my arms. I burst out laughing, which startles both of them. What? They both ask in unison. Guys, hes not a creep. He just kissed me. Lets get to the car. Im freezing. I tucked my curls inside my beanie and almost jogged to the car. By the time we were in the car, Sasha and Greg bombarded me with questions. Whyd you kiss him? Do you like him? Did you kiss him back? I let out a slight shriek which managed to shut them up. He kissed me and I kissed him back. I have to play the part. My voice trailed off towards the end. Sasha and Greg gave each other a slight glance and began the drive back home. I sighed deeply when I spotted Ethans car in my driveway. Good luck, Sasha said with a short laugh. I shut the car door and trudged inside, not wanting to deal with Ethans jealousy. I barely got in the door when Ethan popped up in front of me. He planted a kiss on me and then jerked back. You kissed him. His tone was as if he was talking to a murderer. He kissed me, I said with a shrug. I slipped out of my marshmallow jacket and tossed it in the coat closet. I rubbed my eyes in exhaustion and walked to the living room, flopping down in one of our oversized couches. Nori! Ethan whined/shouted. Ethan, its okay, No, no its not okay. You kissed this guy. Im your boy friend. This is definitely not okay. Ethan, quit being insecure! The kiss didnt mean anything! I wondered if what I had just said was true. Whatever, Nori, He grumbled and dramatically left the house. Jesus! I shouted. I couldnt deal with Ethans crap right now. I scrambled up to my room, turning off the lights and falling into a deep sleep. Those warm lips were the last thing in my mind before I drifted off.