The Best Thing for Me

by Lauren Jackson

  I beamed at her. "That sounds great, Mel."

  "Have you got something special planned?" she asked, wiggling her eyebrows suggestively at me.

  I scratched the back of my neck nervously. I did have a few ideas...

  "Oh my God!" she squealed. "Okay, I'll get Emma all ready and make sure she's prepared!"

  "Do you think she'd ready?" I asked hesitantly, feeling slightly awkward talking about this type of thing with Melanie Stewart. She wasn't exactly a close 'buddy' of mine. She seemed totally at ease though, so that made me feel a little more comfortable.

  "Definitely! Oh my God! I'm so excited."

  "I noticed."

  She grinned, slapping my back. "I can't wait to tell her!"

  Emma Ross

  "I'm your National Anthem!"

  "Can you not?"

  "God, you're so handsome!"

  "Ugh."

  "Take me to the Hamptons!"

  "Shut up, Chase!" I cried out, smacking him on the arm. "I said you could sit here, not rein act Lana Del Ray to me."

  "But Lana Del Ray is so good!" he protested, feinting hurt. He placed a hand over his heart, being completely over-dramatic. "You're being so hurtful!"

  "You seem to bring that side out of me," I muttered. "Look, I'm actually trying to do my work, so if could just be quiet-"

  "Have I ever told you your hair shines like the light from the sun?" he declared loudly, cutting me off and gaining the attention from others. A few people in the front row turned to stare and I sunk down lower into my chair. He began battering his eyelashes at me and I gave him a flat stare.

  "And now you're quoting Lizzy Maguire."

  This had been going on for the past thirty five minutes. I was ready to blow my brains out. He was the most infuriating person I'd ever met! Also, Jason had gone home at lunch with some lame excuse of 'I have a headache'. He had been acting strange all lunch before asking me if I'd had the "talk" with Mel. I didn't even know what that meant.

  So, while being bodyguard-less at school, Chase had offered to be my noble knight and had been frustrating the Hell out of me. He was so annoying.

  Poke.

  Poke.

  Poke.

  "Are you serious?" I grumbled, slapping his hand away again. "Please stay in your own personal bubble."

  "But yours is so tempting."

  "Chase, Emma, if you guys keep disturbing the class, I'm going to have to split you up," the teacher threatened, giving us a pointed stare.

  "Please do," I muttered, earning a broad grin from Chase.

  "So, where is your stud?"

  "My what?" I asked, confused.

  "Jase the case."

  "Where do you even come up with stuff like that?" I exclaimed in exasperation. "And home, I think?"

  "No he's not," Jamie, one of the 'It' girl members sneered, turning to snicker at me. "I saw him get into Melanie Stewart's car at lunchtime."

  My heart plummeted. I blinked at her a few times before I came up with the genius response:

  "What?"

  "Are you both stupid and deaf?" she began as if she was talking to a baby, which only anger me further, "Jason - got - in - the - car - with - Melanie - Stewart."

  They were both skipping school to hang out with each other?

  "Cool - story - bro," Chase chided, rolling his eyes. "Now face the front, your face is hurting my eyes."

  Her eyes widened as she took the verbal slap in the face. With a huff, she faced the front, arms folded. I turned and gave Chase a small smile.

  "Thank you."

  "You're most certainly welcome Emma," he replied back formally, his familiar American accent lacing his words. "And don't worry. Don't jump to any conclusions until you speak with them. I'm sure they have a reason, if it is even true."

  "Yeah, you're right." I agreed. "Thanks Chase."

  In attempt to be subtle, I quickly texted Mel, with my phone in my pencil case. I got an instant reply, like usual.

  ' It's a surprise! Don't worry, you're going to love it. Come around to mine after school. Love you xox '

  I smiled down at the text. I definitely didn't have anything to worry about. I shouldn't ever listen to any of the 'It' girls anyway. I should know better by now. Sighing, I rested my chin on my palm. I felt myself get drowsy as the lesson dragged on at a painfully slow rate.

  All I wanted to do was hang with Mel. I wonder what they were up to?

  "P-pardon?"

  "You heard me!" Mel squealed, clapping her hands together enthusiastically. "You're going to lose your V-Plates!"

  "Um Mel..." I trailed off. "I almost had a heart attack just seeing him naked."

  "So? You'll be under blankets."

  My cheeks were absolutely burning now. I slapped my hands to them, hoping the coldness from my fingers would help cool them. I did not want to be talking about this. I know she was my best friend, but still.

  "You can't be serious."

  "Deadly." she said, nodding. "So when we come back from Dream world, we'll pamper you all up so you look extra sexy. I'm so excited for you!"

  "Do you think this is a good idea?" I mumbled, chewing at my bottom lip and playing nervously with the bottom of my top. "I mean... what if I'm not ready?"

  "Come on, Emma. It's been months. Also, you love him, right?"

  "Right," I confirmed.

  Even though I haven't exactly told him...

  "Well then, what are you waiting for?"

  "Uhm..."

  "Exactly. Stop being a baby."

  I pouted. "Don't call me that."

  "Then grow up and be a woman!"

  "Just stop," I groaned. "I do not want to speak of it anymore."

  She winked. "Just think about it then. Honestly, don’t do it if you don’t want to, but don’t be scared. It’s Jason; he won’t do anything you don’t want to."

  "Ugh," I complained.

  "I can give you some tips if you'd like? From when I'm with Luke-"

  "Please stop!" I begged, slapping my palms to my ears. "I've heard enough!"

  She giggled. "You're so cute."

  "And you're so annoying."

  "No I'm not," she rolled her eyes. "Anyway, let's go. I was meant to have left to meet Luke like ten minutes ago."

  "Ah, right."

  I grabbed my stuff and followed her out. I planted myself in the car and rested my head back. It was then I got myself thinking...

  Was I really ready to commit something like this?

  If I go there, I'll never get it back.

  I sighed. I guess only time will tell.

  43

  I slapped my hand onto my chest and thumped it hard several times. My eyes were watering and my mouth burning. Luke smacked my back and I hacked up my piece of meat, which disgustingly flew out of my mouth, landing on my plate. Rachel, well I mean mum, wrinkled her nose at me.

  "Lovely, Emma." she chuckled.

  "Are you okay?"

  "Y-yep!" I choked, downing my water, trying to clear my airways. I ignored people's curious stares and just focused on recovering.

  "Only you," Luke muttered, shaking his hand, amusement clear in his eyes.

  Currently, Mum, Luke, myself and even Dad were spending a lovely dinner out for my birthday eve, about three towns over. Mum had a scarf and other garments on to try and disguise herself in case anyone recognised her from years ago. Dad wasn't completely okay with everything, you know, he had been really upset, but I think he was getting used to the idea of having her around again. I could tell he still loved her.

  "It was really chewy, okay?" I frowned, attempting to defend myself.

  "Sure." they all chided.

  I ignored them and finished the rest of my steak off in silence. After we all had eaten, we began babbling away again. I was loving how easy and smooth everything was. Not long after, Mum disappeared, muttering something about needing the bathroom, but coming back bearing gifts.

  "You didn't need to get me anything," I scolded, a smile evident on
my face though. I can't tell you how much I had wanted my mother here on my birthday and now here she was. It was literally as if one of my dreams had come true.

  "Don't be silly!" she scoffed. I opened the bright, sparkly card and smiled when I saw her familiar, cursive writing. I opened the large bag and was suddenly bombarded with piles of clothes, compacted in there.

  There were jeans, jewelry, shirts, a jacket, a couple of dresses and even a pair of funky boots located at the bottom.

  "Wow, mum. I don't know what to say! Thank you so much."

  She beamed at me. "You're welcome, I'm just glad you liked them."

  I moved around to her side of the table and wrapped her in my embrace. After a rib-breaking hug and my eyes beginning to sting with the sensation of tears, I broke contact with her and returned to my seat.

  I couldn't have asked for a better night.

  "Never. Again," I cried shakily, gripping the handrails and slowly maneuvering myself down them. I had just experienced the ride called the 'Giant Drop'.

  "Oh come on!" Mel gushed, her cheeks red and her eyes wide in exhilaration. "That was awesome!"

  "It was the scariest thing in my life!" I exclaimed. "I can't believe you talked me into it."

  She rolled her eyes at me. "Dude, you knew what you were getting into."

  "If I knew, I wouldn't have gone on it." I spat, forcing my jellified legs to carry me towards the bench placed a few meters up. I collapsed onto it, and began slowly inhaling and exhaling, trying to slow down my frantic, beating heart.

  Mel snorted and sat beside me. "Well, let's go grab some lunch then."

  We were about halfway to the canteen before I heard my name be boomed across the area in an American accent. I slowly turned around just as Chase propelled himself onto me, causing me to stagger numerous steps backwards. The wind rushed out of me and he squeezed me hard, causing me to squeak.

  "HAPPY BIRTHDAY EMMA!" He bellowed, causing me to wince.

  "I'm just here you know," I joked. "But thank you. What are you doing here?"

  "I'm out with the fam bam." he said with a shrug. "Want to go on the Giant Drop?"

  "N-no!" I cried. "I am never going on that thing again."

  Mel just stood beside me, rolling her eyes. "Since Emma is too rude to introduce me, I'm Mel."

  "Chase," he smiled politely, shaking her hand.

  "Is it true, you were the one who was working for Mark?" she asked casually, folding her arms across her chest and looking him up and down with a sweep of her eyes.

  "Ah... at first. Before I knew the entire story." he admitted, scratching the back of his neck awkwardly.

  "Yeah, right." she replied sarcastically. "Well, we're going now. She may be fine with it, but I'm not. Let's go."

  She clutched onto my hand and began dragging me away. I did an awkward over-the-shoulder wave to him as I tripped to keep up with her.

  "I do not like him." she muttered.

  "He's annoying and persistent, but he's not that bad."

  "Too bad though," she continued as though I hadn't interrupted. "He is awfully attractive. Gives Jason a run for his money, eh?"

  "Mel!"

  "Just kidding. Anyway, what next?"

  And so the day dragged on and on until my feet were sore and my lower back was aching. I shuffled out to the car park and crawled slowly into the backseat and sprawled out.

  "Did you guys have a good day?" Mel's mother asked with a warm smile. "You look exhausted."

  "It was awesome," I replied with a grin. "Except that darn Giant Drop."

  "It was great." Mel grinned. "Definitely need to do that again soon."

  I curled up in a fetal position and let myself doze off. I needed my energy since I was going out with Jason tonight. Or staying in... I wasn't exactly sure what the plan was. Too soon, we arrived home and I stretched, yawning.

  "Come on," Mel said, slapping her hand onto mine and tugged me after her. "Let's get you all sexy-fied."

  "Is that even a word?" I asked, quirking an eyebrow at her.

  She shrugged in response. "Kesha had it in her song lyrics."

  I had been avoiding thinking about you know what all day, because I knew I'd get myself all nervous and worked up. She propped me up on a stool in her bathroom.

  "Strip."

  "Do I have to?" I complained. "I don't want it to be awkward."

  "Emma, I'm your best friend. I think we both have the same parts."

  "Still..."

  "Ugh, leave something on then. I just need to work on you."

  "Fine," I gave in.

  We shaved my legs until they were smooth. I had this moisturiser on to make my skin all nice and soft as well. It smelt pretty delicious. She put a few more highlights in my hair and washed it in this extra blonde highlighter shampoo. After that, we blow dried it and straightened it, so it rested down near my elbows. I then put on a nice, electric blue dress of Mel's and sprayed myself with perfume. I must say, I was stunned when I glimpsed myself in the mirror.

  "You look amazing," Mel fist-pumped. "I could so be a beautician."

  "Thanks," I smiled, hugging her. "I better go or I'll be late."

  "I'll drive you," she offered. "Come on."

  With linked arms, we skirted towards the car and piled in. It was pretty silent on our way towards his house. When we pulled up, she beamed at me, hugging me once more. "Good luck!"

  "T-thank you..."

  "You'll be fine." she assured me, patting my arm.

  "Mm."

  "Bye!"

  "Yeah, see ya'." I mumbled, stepping out of the car. It took me about four steps before he was out the door and jogging over to me. Without a word, he swept me off my feet in bridal style and kissed me passionately.

  "Happy Birthday babe," he whispered on my lips, before kissing me again. Soon, my head was rushing and my heart was racing so much, I had to pull back.

  "Thanks."

  He grinned from ear to ear and gently placed me down. "I thought I'd cook you dinner. It's all ready."

  "Aw! You cooked?"

  "Hell yeah I did. And it's awesome." he boasted, smiling smugly.

  "You're so conceited."

  "You like me like that."

  "Don't get too cocky now," I teased, rolling my eyes.

  He slapped my butt playfully and my cheeks turned hot. I always felt so awkward when he did stuff like that. Especially when my friends were around, but thankfully, that wasn't today. After plopping down onto the table, I rested my lower arms there and twiddled my thumbs. Miranda emerged from her study, her glasses askew with bags were clear under her eyes.

  "Happy Birthday, dear."

  "Thanks Miranda." I smiled.

  With a little wave, she disappeared back into the room and closed the door. Jason rounded the corner, bearing a tray. The plates were already set up with cups and the drinks filled.

  "Look's great!"

  "Thanks bro." he replied. "Dig in."

  I did. The chicken was extremely delicious. I was finished and licking my fingers in a matter of seconds.

  He raised his eyebrows. "How was it?"

  "Great." I said, hooking two thumbs up. "I just need to go wash my hands."

  I excused myself and padded towards the bathroom, rinsing my hands quickly. When I came out, he was sitting in the exact same position, but with two small velvet boxes in front of him. My stomach did a little dip but I slowly walked towards the table. I cleared my throat, looking at them with wide eyes.

  "Open it." he grinned excitedly.

  Slowly, I brought my hands up and undid the clasp. A gasp left my lips when I saw a gold bracelet, with ruby jewels embedded in it. I just sat there, staring at it in awe for several moments. He pushed the other box towards me, and with stiff fingers, I opened it.

  It was a golden ring with also a ruby stone attached on the top. Tears welled up in my eyes and a sniffled.

  "What's wrong?" he asked, concern written on his face. "You don't like it, do you?"

 
"Oh my goodness, Jason," I hiccupped, furiously wiping at my cheeks. "They're amazing. I can't believe you'd spend so much on me!"

  "Why not?" he asked. "You're worth it. So, you really like it?"

  "I love it!" I wrapped my arms around his neck and squeezed. "Thank you so much!"

  "You're welcome." He smiled. He kissed the tip of my nose. "I have a tent set out back. Dessert is out there."

  "Okay!" I slid both the bracelet and ring onto my wrist and finger. They seemed to dazzle like a million lights were hitting them. They contrasted with my skin super well. I couldn't help the Cheshire grin that formed on my face. I was filled with such an overwhelming feeling of happiness, I thought I'd explode.

  He entwined his fingers through mine and I slowly followed him out. "Oh, and did I tell you, you look stunning?"

  “I don't think so, but thank you."

  He paused at the entrance of the tent, causing me to bump into him. I furrowed my eyebrows as I took a step back, placing a little distance between us.

  "What did you stop for?"

  He turned to me, cupping my face in his hands. Slowly and gently, his lips moved against mine.

  "Enter, when you're ready."

  With that, he went through the entrance flap and left me alone. It then dawned on me that the 'dessert' wasn't exactly what I'd been thinking. Secretly, I'd been wishing for a sticky date. Without even realising it, my heart began to increase in speed. My hands began trembling.

  Was I really ready to do this?

  I hadn't been thinking about it, hoping I'd know when the time came. I didn't know though! I let out a few deep breaths, closed my eyes and counted to ten. I could do this. It was time. With another deep inhale, I stepped into the tent. It was dimly lit by candles, with covers over them so they wouldn't tip. A mattress was planted in the middle, drowning under half a dozen blankets.

  Jason, sat there, legs folded. He seemed completely at ease. I swallowed and crawled in. He smiled weakly at me.

  "Hey."

  "Hi."

  "Are you okay?" he asked gently, his eyes searching mine. "We don't have to..."