Emily can't catch a hint.
Alison wasn't used to feeling nervous, but here she was, fidgeting with the strap of her bag as she stood next to Emily at her locker. She had planned this. She was going to be subtle—casual, even—but the end goal was clear: she wanted to ask Emily out.
"So, Em," Alison started, leaning lightly against the lockers. "Are you doing anything tomorrow night?"
Emily turned to her, closing her locker. "Uh, not really. Just probably catching up on some readings. Why?"
Alison smiled, tilting her head. "Well, I was thinking of going to that new café on Main Street. You know, the one with the little rooftop patio and the string lights?"
Emily nodded. "Oh yeah, I've heard it's cute."
Alison took a small step closer. "Right? And I thought, maybe, it would be nice to check it out… with someone. You know, just the two of us."
Emily's face lit up. "That's a great idea! You should totally ask Hanna. She's been dying to go."
Alison blinked. "Hanna?"
"Yeah! Or even Aria," Emily continued, clearly not picking up on the hint. "She loves little aesthetic places like that."
Alison stared at her for a moment, debating whether Emily was being intentionally difficult or just truly oblivious. She decided it was the latter.
"Right," Alison said, exhaling slightly. "Or maybe you could come with me?"
Emily's brows furrowed for a second before she nodded enthusiastically. "Oh, sure! We could even invite Spencer if she's free—make it a little group thing."
Alison closed her eyes for a brief moment, willing herself to be patient. Subtlety clearly isn't working.
She sighed and waved a hand dismissively. "You know what? Never mind. I'll figure something else out."
Emily looked confused. "Wait, did you change your mind?"
Alison just gave her a tight smile, shaking her head as she walked off. "Yeah, Em. I totally did."