New Beginnings (Marie) by Mel Steele novel Chapter 13

Friday came faster than I had expected. After work, I got ready for the football game. I really wanted to eat my weight in ice cream but this was for Evan and Issac. Today was my 20th birthday and not a single person knew. I usually spent my birthday with Chantelle until Luca came along. After their betrayal, I had no want to share my birthday with anybody for a long time. I gave myself a once over. I smiled back at my reflection. I felt good and I looked good. I had a tight t-shirt and skinny jeans with my favorite converse shoes. I grabbed a hoodie as I walked out the door. Saralynn was waiting for me in her car. “Dang girl, you look HOT!” “Awe thanks.” As we pulled into the high school parking lot, I realized what a huge event this was for the town. The parking lot was full and some people even had to park across the street. The bleachers were full and almost everybody was wearing blue. “I see why you told me to wear blue now.” “Yeah, I didn’t want you to feel left out.” We found seats and shortly after sitting down I saw Colton and Hunter. Following right behind them, of course, were Abby and Becca. Abby looked like she was dressed more to go to a club and not a high school football game. As they walked past, I focused my eyes on the field. I could feel Colton’s eyes on me but I just couldn’t bring myself to look at him. I was glad that they kept going so I wouldn’t have to see them during the game. “So how was your date with Jackson?” “It was really nice. We are going out again tomorrow. I asked him to the game but he said he didn’t think he could get back in time.” “Why?” “Some business dinner.” I said, shrugging. Before Saralynn could say anything, a loud deep voice yelled, “Is that my Sara? Couldn’t be my Sara, she would have told me she was coming to the game.” We looked over to see a tall, handsome man. He had big brown eyes and a sharp nose that fit him perfectly. I could tell by how tight the shirt was that he was very, very muscular. His dark brown hair fixed perfectly and a smile to die for plastered on his face. Saralynn jumped up and into his arms. “When did you get back?” “About an hour ago.” “You didn’t call me.” “Ahh but I did….. you should check your phone.” She pulled out her phone and her cheeks turned a light shade of pink. “Sorry Jay, I must have had the radio up too loud on the way here.” He kissed her cheek. “You know I could never be mad at you. “Who is this beauty?” “Jason, this is Marie. Marie, this is Jason, my boyfriend. Well, my only friend till you came along.” “Nice to meet you.” I said, putting my hand out. He pulled me up by my hand and wrapped me in a hug. “Nah, I hug the hot girls.” I couldn’t help but giggle. Saralynn scooted over and Jason sat between us and leaned over and whispered something in her ear. She giggled and nodded and he placed a small kiss on her lips. My eyes left like they were going to pop out of my head. She never once said anything about a boyfriend or any guy she was romantic with and I felt a little hurt. “Tell me how did you meet my Sara?” He said as he put his arm around her waist and pulled her closer. “We work together at the bakery. I don’t think I would have made it in this town without her.” “Well, I am glad she found somebody to occupy her time.” He said, kissing her cheek. “Jason tell me about yourself.” “Ah, so right before you came to town I left for a three-month walkabout to document what it is like for Australian Aboriginals to go through.” “Oh Wow.” “I am extremely happy to be home.” “I bet. Can’t those last longer?” “Yeah, but 3 months was enough for me. What are we doing after the game?” “We could go to Momma’s dinner.” Saralynn said, shrugging. “That place will be packed. Man, Sara, you need to get your own place.” Jason said, laughing. “We can go back to mine.” “You have your own place.” He asked, a bit excited. “Yep, above the Bakery.” “ Perfect, it’s settled.” The game was intense. Issac and Even really were the stars of the team. At half time, Jason went and got us nacho’s and soda. Close to the end of the fourth quarter, Jason leaned over and whispered, “What is going on with you and the Allen boys?” I looked at him confused. “What do you mean?”” “I mean every time I look over, the two of them are staring at you.” “I don’t know why.” Our team won the game by two touchdowns. I made my way to congratulate the boys. “Great game guys.” Issac picked me up and spun me around. “You made it.” “I promised I would. You guys are amazing.” Evan blushed as Issac loved the comment. “Are you coming to Momma’s?” Evan asked. “Nah. I have some double chocolate chunk ice cream waiting for me at home. I have a feeling Momma’s is going to be crazy.” “If you change your mind, message me.” Once back at my place, Jason laid down on the couch and Saralynn sat down, allowing him to place his head on her lap. “So you are probably wondering why I didn’t tell you why I never mentioned Jason.” I plopped down on the chair. “Yeah I sure do.” She looked down at him and he nodded. “Jason is gay and I am his pretend girlfriend.” “Why hide who you are?” Jason snickered. “We live in a small town that isn’t so……open. I’m not worried about myself, but I have a younger brother and sister and I don’t want people to take it out on them.” “I’m sorry you have to hide.” “It’s not so bad with this sexy kitten as my girl.” He said, smiling up at Saralynn. “So next year we are moving to Dallas together for college. We will be roommates but everybody back home will think we are living together as a couple.” “Thank you for trusting me enough to share.” He smiled at me. “I think we will be the best of friends.”