"You didn't tell us about being the varsity baseball manager!" Jessica shrills at the table.
"I thought I did." I know I didn't. My secret is guarded the less they know.
She scoffs. Angela smiles. "I'm so jealous. You have to hook me up with Newton."
"Just because I'm hanging out at the field doesn't mean I talk to them." I glance at Edward stalking the cafeteria. An exception to my statement.
"But you can casually bring me up in conversation."
"No I can't. I don't talk to him. I talk to Ed...Mr. Cullen more than anyone."
"Well, I'm not picky. "
"He's married, Jess." Angela turns her lips up.
Those who sparkle are off limits. I drink my Mountain Dew quietly. I make no claim to the throne I sit upon. It's not mine to boast. I keep my secret whole and golden. That's my difference.
"He's still hot."
I cringe. Peek up at him. He's looking at me, eyes falling on one particular table. Mine. He smiles. A crooked grin. Sly and easy. Friendly. That two-fingered wave shoots me. I'm hit. My breath steals. Jessica follows my eyes.
"Mr. Cullen is waving at you?" I look away as he starts to move toward us. "Mr. Cullen is coming over here." Thank you for the play by play.
He smiles over our table. "Hello girls. Bella."
"Hi," they say.
I nod. What is he doing?
"We have an away game next Friday. You're coming?"
I know our schedule. Why is he asking? He's going to ruin everything. "Yes. Absolutely." Another chance to sit with him. I soar.
He talks briefly about practice today then tells me he'll see me later.
When he leaves from the too-brief moment I'm on fire.
Jess peeks behind her, mouth open, watching as he goes. "Someone has a crush."
My eyes are wide. Horrified. My secret shrivels. I must defend it. "No I don't!"
"Not you! Him."
We watch as he walks away, khakis and all.