This one I think will satisfy a lot of you! But don't get too comfortable, because there's a storm coming. ;) Enjoy chapter 11!

Lunch time. Just like it's been since tenth grade, Riley and her mutual friends are all sitting on the far end of the bleachers chilling out in the sun, it's a decent sized cluster that's been established and grown the past few years. Carl is scrolling through his phone as he grabs the attention of everyone sitting about, "So I'm gonna' throw a Halloween bash at my house on the 31st. What's everyone dressing up as?"

Jordan doesn't hesitate for a minute, "I'm going as The Meme Lord."

Jensen is shaking her head at her boyfriend. And lord only knows why he hasn't broken up with her yet, "My god I hate you."

But Carl will attempt to diffuse the negative comment. While most people would merely have been joking, Jensen wasn't- it was clear in her facial expression, "Marry me, Jordan."

"Bro I already told you're my honey bear."

Riley is cracking up with Amanda, she'll put her water bottle down, "You're both so gay, it's making me look straight."

"That's because Jordan and I are the cutest homo's out there. You know what you want to dress as Riley?"

"Not yet, but I'm thinking of doing a mermaid inspired outfit."

"Shell bra and a mermaid style skirt? That's so cliche." Jensen is rolling her eyes.

But in Riley's mind, this friendship is over. Even if she never made it clear in her words, "Nah, I want it to be a inspired by proper mermaids." She begins, "I wouldn't wear a skirt to look like a tail. I'd have scales painted on parts of my legs and face, and I'd have fangs. Fake gills on my ribs. Because real mermaids?" Forgive her for leaning in close to Jensen's face, "Don't take shit. When you betray them? They'll lure you into the sea. They'll sing with their beautiful voices, or...mimic the voice of someone you love but can't have." A pause, "And then? They kill you."

Though Jensen is doing her best not to look intimidated, she is. It's becoming very clear now. Riley isn't all too concerned about her anymore. That's not good for her, is it?

"...I'm about it." Adds Carl with a smirk, because he absolutely loves that Riley essentially just low-key called Jensen out for her bullshit, "You should definitely do it."

"Eh, it's in baby phase. Knowing me I'll change my mind in two weeks when Halloween rolls around." As if nothing even happened.

'Good girl, Riley! You're finally not taking Jensen's crap!'

'Show her you're not afraid of her! Even if I am!'

"...Room for one more?"

The attention is drawn away from Riley. There stands a nervous looking Carissa. Since the school year began, she had been too afraid to sit with the usual group of kids. Today, she's braving it. Riley will grin, "That depends, are you disgusted or honored that Jordan just said he's dressing as The Meme Lord for Halloween?" She's going to make sure Carissa feels welcome. That it's okay to not only sit with them, but allow everything to go back to normal, "Carl's gonna' throw a party for us all."

The smile is so wide, she is so relieved, "I swear to god if you fuckers play Sandstorm on repeat I'm not going."

"Well, bye." Jordan is waving her off with a small laugh, "Good to see you, what have you been up to?"

"Band stuff, we've been makin' mad money at local joints. I've been spending it mostly on concert tickets." She'll climb right up the bleachers to sit right next to Riley. It's enough to make Jensen bite the inside of her cheek. She's boiling with jealousy.

'She's sitting next to us! I'm gonna' die.'

'She smells so good, ugh, I've missed the smell of her old spice spray.'

'I'm melting!'

Riley merely looks down at her lap, trying to hide her obvious blush. The one time she'll regret cutting her hair because it's no longer there to hide red cheeks.

The group of teens have already broken away from their focus in favor of discussing costumes and who's bringing what while Jensen pretends not to see what she would consider to be a disgusting display between Carissa and Riley. Carissa reaches over, stroking Riley's cheek, "Last time I saw these cheeks you told me you loved me too for the first time."

Oh god, that giggle. That school girl crush giggle. So embarrassing! But she'll try to brush past the insecurity of it, "Just missed you, I guess."

"I missed you too. Wrote a song for the band recently."

"Oh yeah? What's it called?"

"Thirsty."

"So pitch me a line, what's it about? Or do you have it written somewhere I can see it?"

The bell rings, and Carissa comes to stand. She lean down to kiss Riley's cheek lightly, "Check your phone."

And Riley will watch as Carissa is stepping away with Carl who puts an arm around her with a loud SCIENCE CLASS LET'S GET TURNT! She reaches into her pocket, a Facebook message from Carissa.

Thirsty, Lyrics by: Carissa, to be sung by Claire, John is still working on bass- next album? TBD.

When you left I was crushed under the weight of disappointment.
When you left I was angry over the lack of communication.
But, fuck, when I see you I'm so fucking thirsty.
I'm insatiable around you.
We've spoken now, we've made it clear- oh, one day it'll be okay again.
But, fuck, oh fuck, baby I'm so thirsty. I'm starving.
I want you under me, I want you in my sheets, writhing, trembling.
Get off with me? I want you to get off with me again.
Fuck, I'm so so thirsty, I want you again.
I want you to get off with me again.
Does it sound pornographic when I talk about you?
Maybe to a stranger, yeah, but you know me.
You know me better than anyone. You know that I'm sexual.
I know that you are too- I could only talk this way about you.
I only want this with you, because you are the lighter that
ignites my cigarettes.
You are the cold beer that cools my hands, the shelter
that protects me from the inevitable trouble I'll get myself into.
You are the scars on my back from the scratches you've left
When you tell me you want it harder, oh baby just a little harder.
But, fuck, oh fuck, baby I'm so thirsty. I'm starving.
I'm fucking starving for you. I'm starving for you because
I want you under me, in my sheets again. Because I miss you.
Because I love you. Does it sound pornographic? I don't care
that it sounds that way to everyone else. I know that when you
hear this, you'll know it's because you're my fucking everything.
I can only be this dirty to the girl I love.
No one else is deserving of such intimate details I dare describe, no shame involved.
I'm thirsty, baby.
Come back to bed. I promise not to be so
defensive anymore. Come back to bed with me. Just let me
hold you a little longer. Come back to bed, please come back
to bed with me.
I'm thirsty. I'm in love.

"She...she wrote Riley a song. A whole song, just for Riley!" Joy stands from her seat only to take a step back and twirl in the center of headquarters, "I'm swooning! I'm absolutely swooning! It's a song just for us!"

"And it's really dirty." Sadness will sigh, "It's hardly romantic."

"Well I disagree! I think it's very romantic because she's basically saying she still cares about us and doesn't want to anyone else sharing her bed!"

Disgust will smirk, flipping her hair, "And to be honest? I think the song is a total turn on. Oh, you just wait until the make up sex, Carissa."

"I mean, at least it's a step forward. I was beginning to worry that we wouldn't make any progress in patching things up." Fear is always on the lookout to be certain that things are improving, "Because I know both girls agreed to take things slow...but I'm just a little bit impatient. But I know it's for the best."

Anger nods at the comment, "I actually agree with Fear, for once. I'm really ready to get the ball rolling, but I know we need to play our cards right too."

Joy comes to a halt in mid twirl, contemplating for the rest of the group, "Maybe...we can start thinking about asking her out?"

"No- no,no,no, I don't think we should go that far." Fear rises from his seat and joins Joy in the center of the room, "Just hear me out, guys." Because he's certain there will be a rebuttal, "This is a game changer, it has been from the moment we left the police precinct. We made the first move, we kissed Carissa. We made the indication that we were ready to talk about what the future holds. The cards may be in our hands, but we can't just go all in. I don't think we should ask her out because we need to let Carissa do it."

"Why should we wait for Carissa?" Of course Anger is going to be skeptical, "You said it yourself, Riley holds the cards, so if we know what we want, then lets take it!"

"Because if we make too many of the moves then Carissa might get soft, she might think that we can just dive right back into things and we need to make sure she's aware that not just us, but she also has to take some time for personal growth. Riley's working on fixing her trust issues and to stand up for herself, I mean- did you see how great it was the way she told Jensen off at lunch? That was so amazing! And she wouldn't have done that if things were back to being solid with Carissa because she would have been too busy being lovesick over Carissa. She's learning to hold her own."

Anger will sigh, "I guess you're right...and it would be nice for Carissa to learn to keep her defensive side in check. So...you're right."

"So it's settled." Because Joy absolutely agrees with Fear, "We'll let Carissa make the next move...but how about asking her if she's definitely going to the Halloween bash? This way, she knows we're thinking about her but that we're still taking it slow?"

Fear will shrug, "Couldn't hurt, I suppose."

"Well come on, guys, we're burning daylight over here!" Disgust can hear the final bell ringing, "Let's go meet her at her locker!"

Her long strapped purse is slung onto her shoulder, her binder loosely held against her thigh with her hand. The hallway is loud, filled with chatter and the sounds of locker doors opening and closing- along with the occasional ringtone going off. Down the hall, and to her left, there's Carissa who's putting her books away. She's looking just as handsome as always. She never fails to make Riley melt to this day, "How'd you and Carl do on your science presentation?"

"Gotta' B, so not too bad." She turns, smiling at her, "...Can I drive you home?"

'What do we do?! Do we accept?!'

'Absolutely.'

'A-Are you sure?!'

'I'm positive! It's a move forward without being too rushed!'

She'll nod look at her feet with a smile, "Sure, okay."

"Sounds good, dork." Carissa will reach over to playfully take that beanie right off of Riley's head.

With a laugh she attempts to snatch it back, "Hey! Give that back."

A coy little side smile, it's dropped in Riley's hand.

"...So, uh, you gonna' go to Carl's Halloween party?"

"Are you?" She'll lean in just a little. Carissa loves playing this way with Riley, taking it slow. Somehow, it makes the healing process feel...special. That they both care about each other enough to not grow impatient or rush into things. They're willing to wait for each other to improve themselves and feel confident enough in both themselves and each other to close the deal again for real.

"Yeah, yeah I'm gonna' go."

"I'll be there too." The grin hasn't left her face, "Carl wants us to do a best friends costume idea. He wants to be Rick Grimes, so I'm going as Daryl Dixon."

"Dude, that's gonna' be sick. I approve."

"Well, let's get to my car and you can tell me all about your idea for Halloween." She's shy, only for a moment, before she's reaching to put her arm around Riley, but before she can.

"Babe!" Amanda is trotting towards them, hair in a messy bun. Clad in a pair of black leggings, flip flops and a floral dress.

'Oh god, please don't come over here just to blur the lines and make it weird.'

Riley takes this opportunity to put her beanie back on, "Hey, what's up, Amanda?"

"You busy?"

'What kind of question is that? We're about to go home. The school day is OVER.'

"I mean, Carissa is driving me home so I'll be free when I get home."

"Crap, I was gonna' ask if you could give me a ride. I forgot you don't have your car today. My mom forgot to put food out for the cats so I'm panicking, they're probably at home starving."

There's a silence between the three girls. Carissa and Riley will eye each other before they give a mutual nod, "If you want I'll take you home, you're not too far from Riley anyway."

"That would be amazing, thank you so much! Let me just quickly drop this permission slip off to the main office, I'll meet you guys in the parking lot!" But the calm atmosphere doesn't last, when Amanda reaches for Riley's hand, gives it a squeeze before stepping away, letting go of that hand as she walks, allowing the gesture to linger.

Carissa doesn't say a word, but her face makes it very clear that she's not okay with that.

'I can't believe she just did that in front of Carissa- what the hell?!'

'Guys, I can't do this.'

'It's okay, Fear, we'll explain-'

'N-No- no I can't-h. I can't do this-!'

'Fear!'

Riley's face nearly mirror's Carissa's. But that's just it, suddenly (and seemingly out of nowhere) There are tears in her eyes. But they're happening so fast, she can't even fully process them.

Carissa in a panic. However, this triggers protection mode, so she grabs Riley's wrist gently as she eyes the hallway and pulls her into an abandoned classroom, quickly shutting the door. She'll nearly force Riley to sit atop one of the desks. She knows this girl well enough to know that 1. She hates crying in front of others and 2. If she's suddenly crying out of nowhere and so abruptly? That it's not just crying, "Okay- okay, look at me-"

Riley is shaking, taking very short breaths. She's crying so hard and internally panicking so harshly, she can't even breathe properly!

Carissa continues coaching her as best she can, "Look at me, Riley, come on." Both hands are pressed to Riley's cheeks, "Look at me- it's okay, it's okay, just look at me."

It's not just a fit of hysterics. Oh no. This is a full on anxiety attack.

'It's okay, Fear! Come on! Remember your ritual, point things out! Talk your way out! We're all here for need to breathe!'

This is something Carissa is very good at handling with Riley, it's happened in the past. Thumbs gently caress Riley's cheeks, pushing the tears away, "Just look at me, Riley. Just keep on looking at me. You're okay, I'm right here. And it's a gorgeous as fuck day outside. Seventy two degrees and sunny, your favorite kinda' weather, babe."

Babe.

Babe. That's what snaps her out of it. She called me babe! Riley's missed that. Finally, a long, deep breath. Those pale, lovesick eyes focus on Carissa. Ugh, she so badly wants to kiss her. Taking quick, shaken little breaths, but she's coming out of her episode.

"See?" Carissa will smile, continuing to wipe those tears with her thumbs, her hands still against Riley's cheeks, "You're okay...everything's okay."

And she's so taken with how well Carissa handled it when it's been years since she's had an attack of any kind, that she can only nod, with the most innocent of gazes.

"...You wanna' tell me what brought this on?" She's careful to only look at Riley with a soft expression, "It happened after Amanda...took your hand like that."

Riley will cover her face with both hands, "Ugh." But they're pulled back right away, so she can suck in a heavy breath to keep the watery eyes in check, "...I think she's into me."

"...For real?"

"Yeah." She'll wipe her eyes with her tank top, "Carl thinks so too. And I didn't wanna' believe it. I tried to convince myself that I was...overthinking all of these weird mixed signals she's been sending me. But..." Lord forgive her, she's starting to cry again. And she only does it because, "I just want my best friend back-h-"

"Hey- hey, hey, hey!" She's speaking in a hushed tone, drawing Riley into a hug. Allowing her to cry onto her shoulder, successfully dampening the sleeve of her t-shirt, "It's okay, Riley."

"I need my best friend-h and she's treating me like a boyfriend and then not being honest with me about it-h like she's not-h doing-g anything like that-h- I don't want to walk on eggshells with her not knowing what to expect- because I feel like I have to do that now because if I don't she might take something completely normal that I always do with her as me trying to hint that I like her."

"You know how girls are." She attempts to reassure her, "Especially girls who are sexually confused or...just like the attention they get from it. In Amanda's case, I'll guess she's sexually confused. Probably a closeted bisexual."

"I shouldn't have fucked her- I shouldn't have fucked her!" The crying is never going to stop at this rate.

"Shh, shh, shh! Stop that, Riley. Please don't beat yourself up over this. You were so shitfaced you didn't know what you were doing. Y'think you're the first person to make the mistake of bangin' somebody and regretting it once you sober up?"

"I-I barely even remember it-h and she remembers everything and now she's making it weird and I need her. I need my best friend back. I can't play this game with her. I won't do it."

"I know, Riley, I know." Carissa rubs her back slowly, sighing against her ear, "She is your best friend, though. Which means that you can talk to her. It might not be easy, but you have to talk to her. You don't...have to do it now. You can do it when you're ready, but until then. Just keep doing your best to act like your normally do with her. Because walking on eggshells around her, might make her think you like her too. I speak from experience on this one."

"I swear I don't like her that way, I swear I was really drunk and I don't want to date her, I don't have any interest in screwing her again I need you to believ-"

Carissa will pull Riley back lightly with a hand pressed to each of her arms before she's placing them back against her cheeks with a laugh "Riley, I'm gonna' punch you." She'll shake her head, "I know. You don't have to explain, okay? I completely get it and believe me when I say I've been in your shoes before. So, it's okay. Just make sure when you finally talk to her...you're honest. She's your best friend, so even if it hurts for her to hear how you feel, she'll understand and get over it in time."

'...I am so in love with this girl.'

It's enough for Riley to nearly throw herself back into Carissa's arms and hold on for dear life, "Thank you, Carissa."

"I always have your back, dork."

"Are you alright, Fear?" Sadness is rubbing his back. She's always been the best at helping her co-emotion out of his attacks.

"Yeah- y-yeah I'm fine." And finally breathing normally, "It just got to me. I started having this...imagery of Carissa exploding on us because Amanda did that and ruining our chances with her."

"You were just over-thinking, is all. It happens when you get anxious. You're okay, though."

Joy offers to call for Motivation as she's careful to spectate the car ride. Thankfully, it's going well. Riley is in the front passenger seat, and Amanda is in the back. It's a safe distance and everything seems to be going smoothly.

"No, I'm okay. Really, I'm not anxious anymore. I don't think we need to call for him." But he will say this, "Guys, we need to figure out how to handle this. It's getting out of hand. I mean, I just assumed that once she realized Riley's trying to get back into it with Carissa she would just...back off, but she hasn't. It's frustrating."

Disgust is nearly eyeing the screen with daggers, "Do you see the way she keeps looking at Carissa? It's not that you're mine kinda' Jensen stare. It's a stop flirting with my best friend kinda' stare and that's not okay! Every time we turn around and look at her. This is getting serious and it needs to be handled."

Anger is the first to come up with an idea, "Carl's dated her before. Let's shoot him a text. He may be an immature little shit at times, but when things are serious he usually knows how to give good advice. And he probably knows Amanda's romantic side better than anyone."

"Good idea-" Joy is already preparing to plant the idea into the desk, "Let's see what Carl has to say."

"So, Amanda, how's cheer leading stuff going? I heard you guys are going to that competition down in LA?" Carissa is going to do her best to keep Amanda distracted. She see's the way that girl is looking at her. Anything she can do to calm the waters.

"Yup." Arms folded, "I'm actually pretty excited! This is the first time in three years that we've been invited- and if we win? We get a huge trophy for the school and could be eligible to fly out to the competition in Disney World."

"Hey, that's fucking impressive! But, I mean, you have this in the bag. With you as their captain? You guys can't lose." Why not try to butter her up a little?

But that's a very...salty smile Amanda is sporting, "I hope so!" But in her defense, she's actually trying not to be so salty at all, "It's going to take a lot of hard work, but I'm ready for it."

The conversation continues. Amanda and Carissa swap cheer and band stories while Riley whips out her phone.

[text: Riley]: Hey listen I REALLY have to talk to you rn

[text: Carl]: I just got home what's up are you okay? I can call [text: Riley]: No texting is fine 3 but Carissa offered to drive me and Amanda home

[text: Riley]: But after the offer was made like right in front of Carissa Amanda just straight up grabbed my hand, SQUEEZED it and then she slowly let go of it as she was walking away [text: Riley]: Right the fuck in front of Carissa and I know it was on purpose so I ended up having an anxiety attack

[text: Carl]: Holy shit are you okay? I can come to your house when you get home it's no problem I was gonna smoke a blunt with Jordan before dinner but I can cancel no problem

[text: Riley]: No no it's fine I promise I'm fine

[text: Riley]: Carissa talked me down and everything but dude I need your help because wtf am I supposed to do about this? She keeps blurring the lines and making shit weird and we're in the car right now and you should SEE the way she's looking at Carissa like she wants to stab her you've dated her I know you've seen this side of her please help me out I'm so desperate

[text: Carl]: Well first of all, she's never gonna tell you that she likes you at least not for a looooong ass time

[text: Carl]: I know this girl well- when she was jealous over something I did that upset her? she'd tell you so what's going to eventually happen is when she needs to tell someone? she's going to tell me probably and that hasn't happened yet

[text: Carl]: This ones difficult she always has been

[text: Carl]: You're going to have to let this run its course until she tells me and when she does I'm gonna cue you in so you can tell her I told you because tbh idc if she gets mad I 'told you' as if it wasn't obvious to you already that she's into you and then from there you can talk to her

[text: Riley]: What do I do until then? [text: Carl]: You ignore every blurred gesture and every attempt at flirting.

[text: Carl]: Treat it as if it's not happening.

[text: Carl]: Oh my god Riley you look so cute today! Say nothing. Only acknowledge the clearly platonic shit. because THAT'S what will make her explode and tell somebody. most likely me.

[text: Carl]: And I can't promise you that you guys won't end up having a bitchy non physical cat fight she tends to do that when she's caught in something she doesn't wanna be caught in...you know like...being into girls

[text: Riley]: Okay I'll give that a shot in the dark...thanks Carl I'll text you when shit happens I guess

[text: Carl]: Are you SURE you're okay? I can get in my car right now.

[text: Riley]: I'm fine I promise :) thank you

[text: Carl]: No problem girl I got you

"Yours is the one with the pots on the stoop right, Amanda?" Carissa is slowly parking the car.

"Yeah! That's me-" She unbuckles and reaches for her purse, "Thank you so much!" She'll pat her shoulder.

"Oh, no problem, any time you need a ride, just let me know."

"Of course." She'll reach over to Riley, kiss her cheek, "Bye, babydoll. Text me!" And she's out of the car and up her front steps.

Riley is already trying out Carl's method. She didn't look up from her phone for a second. She didn't acknowledge the kiss to her cheek. And once Amanda's left the car, she turns to Carissa with a grin, "Mom's home...wanna' come say hi?"

And Carissa is so impressed at how well Riley handled that awkward situation without an ounce of panic that she's grinning from ear to ear, "Sure, I miss her her. I hope she doesn't hate me after the breakup situation."

"No way, I'm pretty sure my mom loves you more than me." She jokes.

"She probably does, I'm so dashing and wonderful!"

"Cocky little shit." God I want to kiss you so much.

"I'm so impressed with Riley's Halloween costume, Disgust!" Joy never imagined a makeshift costume could actually look so legit. Besides, she's a;ready in a great mood because the past two weeks were very quiet. It gave Riley plenty of time to get her head back on straight.

"Thanks! Let me give you the costume tour." Just as Riley is standing in front of the full length mirror behind her door to take a selfie, "So we used fishnets and opalescent eye shadow to make it look like her legs, hips, stomach, arms and face have subtle mermaid scales, then sprayed it all with setting spray! We bought the fake gills prosthetic's on her rib cage from the party store and blended them with a little makeup- the holographic bathing suit top is from Hot Topic, the jean shorts are the ones we haven't worn since tenth grade because they're a little too big, but I think they work, honestly. As for shoes? I figured she could just wear her vans because if she gets drunk, she shouldn't be in heels. And for tonight I figured we could leave the beanie at home. I just added a bit of glitter to her hair, very subtle, though."

"And the eye makeup is so dramatic! I love it, and the fishnets to make the eye shadow look like scales on her cheekbones? Brilliant!"

"It's a shame we couldn't get the fangs to stay in her mouth." Sadness will sigh, "That would have been really cool."

"I still think it looks pretty great, though. And Carissa is even picking us up! So we have a lot to look forward to!" And speak of the devil.

The emotions put their focus on the main screen to find Riley climbing into Carissa's jeep.

'How's it going, Daryl? I was so sorry to hear about Beth.'

'Beth who, I'm so over her, there's a gorgeous mermaid right in front of me. I'll let you eat me if you really want to.'

'You're disgusting! Just drive, asshole.' But the two girls are laughing 'Besides, if you're offering that, I'm actually gonna' eat you, as in, murder you.'

'I think that's better than a zombie apocalypse, Riley.'

"So does anybody else think we should possibly end tonight with a kiss?" Anger is so ready to start taking things further.

"...I think we could maybe give it a try. Like, when she drives us home?" Fear nods, "Yeah, let's give it a try guys!"

As if there would be any doubt. Everyone is in agreement here.

Everyone's costumes are completely on point tonight, in fact. Carl, dressed as Rick Grimes, Amanda is wearing a french maid's uniform. Jordan? Well, just as promised, he did in fact, dress up as The Meme Lord. Enough to make everyone stop him for pictures. The night starts off pretty great, actually. The house is packed and everyone is enjoying themselves. But it won't last. About an hour and a half into it, Jensen and Austin walk in, arms around one another. Jensen is dressed as a...sexy version of the devil. How fitting. Austin, on the other hand, is dressed up as a pimp.

What's all the more disappointing is the way Jordan's mood completely deflates upon seeing this. Both Carissa and Riley pull him aside. Immediately he opens up to them, "...I think I'm gonna' break up with her tonight. This isn't worth it."

"Dude, you can't let her do this to you." Riley argues, "She literally walked in with another guy and you deserve so much better than that."

"...It just hurts because I'm kinda' in love with her."

"Listen, kid." Carissa pats his shoulder, "Grab yourself a beer, stay away from that bitch and have yourself a good time. Everyone loves your costume and we all love you. Don't let her ruin it. But, yeah, definitely break up with her."

"...Thanks, guys, I'm outta weed so I can't even-"

On command, Carissa pulls a baggie out of her pocket, "At your service, bro."

"God, you're the best. Riley, wanna' go out back with us?"

"Eh, I'm good, you guys go on ahead. I might bake later, but I'll stick with my beer."

Carissa will squeeze her arm, "We'll be back in a few, then."

It's an opportunity, in Riley's mind. She's going to catch up with her best friend and maybe attempt to further show just how much she isn't interested in her romantically. This friendship needs to get back on track. But before she can catch up to Amanda, who's making a B-Line towards the front door to let some of her friends into the house, her arm is grabbed, "Well, this is definitely the hottest costume here."

'Is he fucking kidding me?'

'Ugh, get him off her! Disgusting!'

To her disbelief, it's Austin. Who's currently sporting to most perverted stare she's ever seen. She'll break out of his grip, "What do you want, Austin."

"I thought we were gonna' be civil? I just wanted to say hey and that I like your costume."

A sigh, "...Thanks. Yours is cool too. But to be honest, I don't feel like talking to you. You know Jensen's seeing someone right?"

"She told me it wasn't serious."

"Well it was to Jordan." She'll fold her arms.

"...Okay, I didn't know that, but let's change the subject." He's inching closer. Placing his hands right against her hips. It's middle school all over again, "You seriously look incredible, Andersen. And I dig the short hair."

"Dude, get the fuck off me." She's wiggling away from his grip.

But he only tightens it, "Come on, it's just a compliment, let's just talk."

"Then let go of me." He underestimates that she's not powerless. Fairly strong arms shove him right off of her.

"Jesus Christ, relax, Riley! I wasn't trying to be a dick."

"And I clearly said don't touch me. So don't fucking touch me!"

"What's goin' on here?" Now standing right next to the pair is Carissa.

Austin will roll his eyes, "I was telling her I liked her costume. That's it."

"Pretty sure I heard the phrase don't fucking touch me just now, or am I hearing shit?"

"Y'must be."

"Don't you dare start this shit with me, Austin. Do not. I heard her and if I remember correctly considering your history, this isn't outta' character for you."

Riley stands in silence, but she's looking to Austin with utter distaste. She's pissed.

'Good girl, let him know you're not afraid of him either! They both lost!'

But Carissa wants the last word, "So why don't you make this easy and walk the fuck away. She's still not interested in you."

He hesitates before taking a step back, "Bitch."

"Ahahaha, original, shithead." A shake of her head before her face softens, "You okay, Riley?"

She nods, finishing off her beer, "I'm fine, he doesn't scare me." But she's smiling now, "You smell dank." She'll tease. Nearly melting when her little gutter punk starts to laugh at the comment, "Don't drink tonight, you gotta' drive me home." But she's feeling brave as her hand reaches to the back of Carissa's neck to play with the short hairs upon it. She remembers all to well, that this little gesture drives her crazy, "So be good, yeah?"

She has to bite her lip, "You're lookin' for trouble, aren't you?" A sharp breath, "I might end up making a huge mistake in the car with you if you keep that up."

"But would it be a mistake?" Maybe she wants this.

The night is...well, as good as it can manage to be. Because Jensen mostly spends the evening crowding around with their group of friends and not taking her eyes off of Carissa, she's not even trying to cover it up. It's uncomfortable for everyone, but at least Amanda is too distracted to hang around Riley and make things weird again. So most of this is easily brushed past. Eventually, Carissa excuses herself for a cigarette. But Jensen follows her strangely enough with a, "Yeah, me too."

Carissa will raise an eyebrow, "Since when do you smoke?"

"It's been about a month, no biggie."

So then it must be time to play, "Okay well, Riley, come with us, I wanted to talk to you."

"She doesn't smoke." Jensen will argue.

"You're right, she doesn't. But I literally just said I wanted to talk to her so."

'Oh, you couldn't tear me away now, bitch. Don't even try to fuck with us, Jensen.'

Riley follows after the two girls who light up as soon as they're away from the noise of the party. But for Carissa? Jensen being here only makes this even sweeter, "So...I've been thinking." Her free hand reaches for Riley's waist, pulls her right against her, arm kept wrapped around that svelte waist.

"...Yeah?" Once nervous lips curl into a smirk, she loves that this is happening right in front of Jensen, who's eyes are widening with jealousy.

"I know we're taking this slow...but that started in August. We're in October now, technically November, in about forty five minutes." She'll draw the cigarette to her lips to take a deep inhale before she pulls it away again. She's careful in turning her head away from Riley to avoid blowing smoke in her face, "...So, um." And she'll face her again, "...Can I take you out sometime soon?"

'Oh my god I'm swooning again.'

'She is so classy! I'm gonna' die!'

Riley is thankful that it's dark out, she's certain that she's blushing, "...Absolutely- yeah, yeah- I'd like that."

"Because, well, if you remember I mentioned I've been blowing my earnings on concert tickets. And I somehow managed to snag two tickets for..." Another drag is taken from her cigarette and slyly she speaks, allowing the smoke be exhaled with every word uttered, "Tegan and Sara."

'Holy shit is she serious?!'

'We've never seen them live before! I'm so excited!'

'Oh my god I can't deal with this, her first gay fantasy ever involved Tegan and Sara where Sara-'

'Not now, Disgust! You're ruining the focus on this adorable moment!'

"What." Riley's jaw drops, "A-Are you serious?!"

"First row, center seats. It cost an arm and a leg, but we should see our fantasy wives before we die, right?"

"Holy shit! Holy shit, no fuckin' way!" She's nearly punching Carissa in the chest out of excitement.

She can only laugh hysterically, "So, then is it a date, dork?"

"Hell yeah, it's a date! When's the show?!"

"Next week."

"Next week?!"

"Next week!"

"Ohmygod!"

This is something Jensen considers to be a horrible and very over dramatic display, "'Kay, Riley. You're laying it on a little thick there, relax." Jensen will be blatantly ignored and it's enough for her to angrily toss that cigarette to the ground and storm off. As if she has any right to be upset with what she's just witnessed. But Riley won't let anyone spoil this. Not only has Carissa asked her out, but she's going to see one of her favorite musical artists of all time! The two don't stay at the party much longer. they say their goodbyes to everyone, and Carissa keeps the promise of dropping Riley off at home. She'll put the car in park upon arriving at her house, "So I get Tegan, you get Sara?" She's teasing, of course. After all, who doesn't have a fantasy celebrity girlfriend? Everyone's guilty of it at one point or another.

But Riley laughs, "I'm pretty sure that was the agreement we made two years ago last time we tried to get tickets to their show." With a smile she sighs, "Thanks for giving me a ride. And I can't wait for our date."

"So you can lose your shit in the front row if they play I Hear Noises?"

'Come on, let that confidence show, Riley!'

'Time to flirt, you've got this, girl.'

"...No." She begins, trying to keep her skin from jumping everywhere at once, "So I get to hold your hand and dance with you."

It's enough for Carissa to have to turn away from her, "You're so gay!" She can mess with Riley all she wants. It's very obvious that the comment is turning the teen into a puddle in the drivers seat. She turns to face her once again, "...I'll wait til you get inside to pull away. And I'll pick you up for the show next week around 6:30?"

"6:30." God, she's nervous, but she can't back down.

'Come on, Riley. Kiss her!'

'COME ON, RILEY, JUST DO IT!'

She unbuckles just before she slowly leans over, hand pressed to Carissa's cheek as she presses their lips together for a soft kiss.

Carissa doesn't hesitate to lean in, pressing her own hand to the back of Riley's neck. She's left breathless when the other pulls away, "...Damn."

"...G'night, Carissa."

'...Night, Riley."

"We did it! We kissed her!" And Joy couldn't be happier, "Look at all of the fireworks! They're so beautiful!"

"I've gotta' hand it to you, Joy, I was convinced that after the crap Jensen pulled and what Austin did? That this night was going to be a flop, but I was wrong." And for that reason, Fear will admit defeat, "But it turned out great. I don't think anything could spoil her mood tonight!"

"And you know what?" Disgust is on cloud nine, "I think she's going to sleep great."

At least someone should sleep great.

Jensen, however, will lay sitting wide awake in Austin's bed. And he is in fact so beyond the point of drunk, that he's passed out hours ago. Nothing in the world will wake him up until tomorrow. She will merely stare straight ahead. Her body is numb, her eyes lack emotion. All she can think about is Riley. The way Carissa kisses Riley. The way Carissa grabs Riley by the waist...the way she flirt's with her...teases her...touches her hair...whispers into her ear all of the things she wants to hear. It's everything she wants- everything she believes that she deserves.

And don't fucking call me baby. I'm not your fucking baby

I'm never gonna' want you, Jensen.

I'm never gonna' want you, Jensen.

I'm never gonna' want you, Jensen.

I'm never gonna' want you, Jensen.

And don't fucking call me baby.

And don't fucking call me baby.

And don't fucking call me baby.

I'm not your fucking baby

I'm not your fucking baby

I'm not your fucking baby

I'm never gonna' want you, Jensen.

I'm never gonna' want you, Jensen.

NEVER GONNA' WANT YOU, JENSEN.

It's abrupt in action. Her arms raise, fists smashing on the bed. And she screams. Bone chilling and loud. This is war.