A/N: Thanks for the reviews and alerts! In the beginning of the fourth chapter, Kelsi had spent a lot of time on the phone talking to all of her friends about everything that happened with Ryan. In the chapter that was posted, you see the beginning of her conversation with Chad. The first scene in this is the complete conversation, the way it was originally written. The second scene is when the girls get back to the Evans house after going to the spa. It's a really short scene between Kelsi and Gabriella and a little bit with Troy. This next update is going to be really fast - as in, it'll be up right after this is posted. Let me know what you think!
Talking to Chad
Kelsi looked over as her phone rang for the fifth time, surprised to see Chad's name flashing on the screen.
"Chad?" she asked, picking up the phone in disbelief. The two of them were friends and all, but it was pretty unusual to for him to call. Especially in the morning hours.
"Hey Small Person," was the oddly cheerful response. "So what's this about you and Evans?"
"Don't tell me you want details too," she replied.
"No," Chad laughed. "Taylor seems to think you two are an item now and I just wanted clarification."
"Nothing's official..." she started, though now he had her wondering herself. "But...I guess things are moving in that direction...kind of...I think..." Chad chuckled again. "If you don't mind my asking, why do you care?"
"Aw come on Kelsi, you're like a little sister to me. Evan's become a good friend and all, but even so, if he hurts you in any way I'm going to have to hurt him," Chad said matter-of-factly.
"I appreciate the sentiment," Kelsi giggled slightly. "But I don't think that will be a problem."
"Me either," Chad agreed. "Like I said, Evan's a good friend and I think he's probably good for you. But even so. Anything happens and I'm on your side."
"What if I hurt him?" she challenged, though she was kidding.
"Ooh tough one. I couldn't exactly hurt you like I could go after him," he chuckled. "I guess I'd be forced to call Sharpay and let her handle it. He is her brother after all."
Kelsi gasped dramatically. "You'd send Sharpay after me? That's harsh."
"Yeah well, I have to stick up for my boy," Chad paused. "Unless we go back to original scenario in which case, I'd have to beat him up."
"I'm sure he'd be thrilled to hear that," Kelsi laughed again.
"In all seriousness," he paused and the tone in his voice changed to something softer. "I hope things do work out for you guys."
"Thanks Chad," she said softly.
"Well I better let you go get ready for the day," he said.
"Okay. Merry Christmas Eve Chad." A pause followed that statement.
"Who says Merry Christmas Eve? It's always just Merry Christmas," was his response and Kelsi bit back a giggle.
"Well it is Christmas Eve isn't it?" she challenged.
"Yeah, I guess so. In any event, I'll see you later."
Talking with Gabriella after getting back from the spa
When the limo pulled up to the Evans residence, the driver once more came and opened the door for them. Once again, each of the girls thanked him and they headed towards the house. Kelsi slowed her steps as they got closer and Gabriella hung back a little while the other three went inside.
"You okay, Kelsi?" Gabriella asked.
"Yeah...I'm just a little nervous," Kelsi confessed. "About seeing Ryan. I know that's silly."
"No, I think it's sweet," Gabriella smiled and then looped her arm around Kelsi's. "Don't worry about it, it'll be fine." Kelsi nodded, but as they stepped into the house, they were met by Troy. He grinned at them.
"Hello ladies," he said, leaning to give Gabriella a quick kiss. "I have been instructed to tell you to head on upstairs."
"For what?" Gabriella asked.
"The next part of your surprise, of course," he answered. "Go on."
"Where are the other guys?" Gabriella pressed.
"Around," Troy bit back a smile. "We still have things to do and you aren't allowed down here for a little while. And besides, I think you'll enjoy what's planned. Now go on."
