Chapter One
Hazel smiled with relief. She had just told the entire class that she was a Muslim. "Very good," said Mr. Simpson. Hazel took her seat as school began. I need to talk to you! Paige im-ed her. Hazel nodded and turned her attention to what Mr. Simpson was saying.
"So are you going to wear that scarf- thing now that everyone knows you're a Muslim?" Paige asked. "Not until I'm really old," replied Hazel. "I'm way too young for it. I'll start when I'm ready. But you're not mad at me, are you?" "Well," said Paige, "I'm a bit upset that you didn't trust me with the truth." "So how can I make it up to you?"
"Just invite me to your house!" "Done," said Hazel.
THE NEXT YEAR, START OF SCHOOL
"I can't believe Ash did that to Jimmy," said Paige. "Even if she was on Ecstasy." "I know!" Hazel agreed. "It was so totally unfair."
She and Paige were gossiping before classes started. "But that means that he's a hotty free for the taking," said Paige, with a meaningful look at her best friend.
"I'll see you in class," said Hazel, getting the hint. She walked over to Jimmy's locker, which he was filling with books. "Hey," said Hazel coyly. "Wanna catch a movie Friday at the mall? If you're free, that is," she added. Jimmy looked her over. She was wearing a denim miniskirt and a belly-flashing tank, as it was still warm out. "Sure. I'll pick you up at six." Jimmy walked off to class.
Hazel ran to catch up with Paige, who was waiting expectantly at the end of the hall. "So?! What happened?!" Paige squealed. "I've got a date Friday!" Hazel said excitedly as they walked to class, arm in arm.
A few months later, Hazel and Jimmy were an official couple. "You two and Spin and me should double date sometime. We'd have such fun!" "Yeah," said Hazel. She was obviously preoccupied, and her lack of enthusiasm worried Paige. "What's the matter?" she asked. "Jimmy wants to do it with me," she sighed. "So? That's great!" "Paige, I don't know if I want to! I mean, I love him and all, but am I ready?"
"Look, hon, if I could do it with Spin after what Dean did to me- and still have fun, you can sooo do it!"
"I guess," said Hazel. She didn't sound at all convinced.