by Anne Eliot
“What?” Curtis was frowning and possibly trying to see down the front of her towel! “Hell yes, you like me—especially over this dumbass. And good that you’re finally saying it out loud!”
Charlie still had his hand fisted as though he’d like to hit Dustin again. “I just wanted us all to be clear. That’s all.”
Curtis finally seemed to be ramping in, and moved his gaze from Vere to Dustin. “Vere, if this dork made a play for you and right under my own nose, I’ll be the one taking the next punch outta him, thank you very much.”
“Good man, Curtis.” Charlie smiled at his friend. “I think it’s settled now.”
“You two loser, Neanderthals! Dustin’s my friend. Like he said. That’s all! We were swimming. If you two can’t handle us being friends, then you can just both kiss off. Nothing’s going on besides that.”
Vere couldn’t make eye contact with Dustin.
Nothing’s going on besides I just kissed his wrists like a freak. God. Why did you do that, Vere?
“Good. Because if there were something, our friend Dustin would be so finished. You know what I mean. Don’t you, buddy?” Charlie and Dustin had not once broken each other’s gaze.
“Eat shit, buddy,” Dustin muttered.
Vere finally realized Charlie was blatantly threatening to blow Dustin’s cover right in front of Curtis. And for what? He was acting as though he’d caught them totally making out or something. And so? If they had been making out, so what! It was her choice whom she made out with. Charlie was not the kiss police!
She almost had to laugh at the direction of her thoughts. This whole thing was making all of them crazy. That had to be it.
“Charlie. You just better apologize right now, or I’m telling mom.”
“Maybe I want you to tell mom, Vere. What the HELL?”
“No. YOU, Charlie. WHAT THE HELL? YOU? Apologize.”
Charlie softened his tone and spoke to Dustin with his teeth clenched and his voice dripping with sarcastic venom. “I’m sorry I punched you, dude. I thought I saw something that apparently I didn’t see. You don’t blame me, do you, friend? I bet you get, that if positions were reversed, you’d have done the same.”
Vere was too shocked to speak. Charlie had never acted like this, at least not in front of her before. Why did he sound so mean? She knew she’d somehow crossed over into guy-land. And she sure didn’t speak the language here.
What Dustin said next shocked her more. “No. I don’t blame you. Let’s hope this is really the last time we have to bring this up.” Dustin rubbed away the drop of blood that had formed on his lip, and dropped his hand.
His voice didn’t hold any anger, and for some reason, she got the impression Dustin was sort of resigned about something all of a sudden.
She glanced at Curtis who’d turned into some sort of Charlie-copying, stuttering robot. “Sorry Curtis, I’m too annoyed with my brother to hang out. I’ll see you back at the cabin.” Vere shoved hard at Charlie’s chest and he stepped back.
He wouldn’t meet her gaze. Good.
Hopefully he was good and embarrassed for acting like such a freak. Vere bumped Dustin with her shoulder.
Thankfully, he seemed to understand. As if he’d awakened from some strange trance, he hopped off the dock and walked ahead of her along the trail leading back to the cabin.
She followed in silence. There was nothing to say.
32: love, hate, heaven and hell
Dustin
Dustin couldn’t believe how quickly his heaven had turned into absolute hell.
He’d survived the afternoon ‘lounge around’ time, pretending to nap in the sun on the porch with everyone else.
And pretending nothing had changed or was wrong.
But everything had changed! Everything was now beyond twisted and wrong!
He’d made it through the lie they’d told Mrs. Roth about his glasses breaking on a rock. Luckily, Charlie’s fist had connected with his jaw, so there wasn’t much of a bruise from the punch. He even suffered through Jenna helping him secure the cracked center of his glasses with a fat mass of white duct tape while everyone (except Vere) laughed at the ridiculous nerdier, nerd-effect.
Dustin had survived the trip to Mr. Roth’s workshop along with Charlie and Curtis. Helped clean it out. Helped put up the deck chairs, canoe, oars, and barbecue for the winter without another fight. But now, with the sun completely down, Mr. Roth stoking up the last fire in the moss-rock fireplace, and the damn duct tape itching the bridge of his nose, Dustin was falling apart.
They’d gathered back in the living room. Some sprawled on the soft couches, some on the braided rug, to digest the most delicious dinner he’d ever eaten. They were all now waiting for Mrs. Roth’s ‘famous red-velvet’ cake to cool.
He’d replayed Vere’s soft lips on his wrists so many times, and he still couldn’t stop picturing it. He’d also re-analyzed every single second of her while he and Charlie had fought on the dock. Her expressions had fallen off her face like petals ripped from a flower.
There was her initial shock from the punch Charlie had planted on him. Then that adorable flash of true concern when she’d handed him back his broken glasses. She’d had so much anger at Charlie, followed by her obvious frustration with the whole scene.
But what had anguished him the most as he went over things, was the flash of her expression right after he’d claimed—yet again—she was not his type.
For a moment her eyes had told him, without a doubt, she’d believed and accepted what he’d said as a rule. If he could only be free to tell her the damn truth. She deserved to know and to believe, she was the most beautiful girl in the whole world. Inside and out.
He wanted to throw his book across the room in frustration. His arms tingled with the memory of holding Vere in the water. He only wanted to hold her again now.
Hell. What had made the girl kiss my wrists like that? Could she possibly have feelings for me too?
If she admitted that she did, would I tell her the truth?
Tell her I’m in love with her?
What would be the point? I could only offer her a fling until I leave. Unacceptable. And inappropriate. I’d never ask that of her. Never. And she doesn’t want me, anyhow.
He sighed in pure torment and flicked a glare at Charlie.
The kid returned it without hiding his anger one bit.
How long had the guy been glaring at him like that?
Resigned, he stared back down at his book. Any attempts at a deeper connection with Vere would break the rules he’d accepted as part of this game. One of those rules was to not hurt or mess with Vere’s heart or soul. Any attempts to approach her on the level his heart craved would harm her eventually.
Curtis Wishford, his hair still damp from the shower he’d taken before dinner, had scooted up next to Vere who rested with her back to the fire.
Dustin glared at Curtis through his cracked lens.
With the red and gold firelight reflecting on the guy’s hair, Dustin couldn’t help but visualize two, black devil horns growing out of the top of his giant head. All the slimy jerk needed was a pitchfork and tail to complete his look.
Does one else notice the similarity?
As if to prove his thoughts were dead on, Curtis grabbed Vere’s hand in a possessive gesture, and shot Dustin a smirk that of course, no one else spotted.
Dustin looked away from them.
Whatever.
If this is hell, then of course the girl I love is dating the devil.
BECAUSE IT’S HELL.
Mr. Roth. The Devil is holding your daughter’s hand. Now would be a great time to step up and whack the kid with your fire poker.
When nothing happened, Dustin just slouched lower into his book.
Curtis’s voice sliced through the room. “What do you say, sweet Vere. Are you up for a moonlight walk by the lake?” He was obviously trying to be all suave and whispery, but to Dustin he sounded like a megaphone. The guy ha
d no finesse.
Dustin just had to look up again.
Damn. Vere’s cheeks had turned that cute shade of pink he liked so much.
“Sure, Curtis. Sounds awesome,” she answered.
Dustin slammed his book shut, drawing another huge glare from Charlie.
Bring it dumbass. Go ahead and punch me right here, but I am SO going on a night hike right now. Hell yes I am.
“Can I come? I’ve never seen the lake at night,” Dustin said quickly.
“Oh. I want to go too,” Jenna piped in. “I could use a walk. I’m dying of Chicken Alfredo overload.” She seemed to melt out of the couch as she stood, and patted her stomach. “Mrs. Roth, this weekend has made me a bit—chubby.”
Mrs. Roth smiled.
Dustin grinned double-wide at Jenna.
Go Jenna. I love you right now.
He locked gazes with Charlie, knowing what the kid wanted. He expected him to convince Jenna to stay away from Curtis and Vere. But after what happened on the dock, Charlie should know better.
All favors are off, dumbass. Do your own dirty work.
He fingered the sore spot along his jaw, wondering briefly if he and Charlie were even friends anymore.
Were we ever?
The whole thing felt too weird. If Curtis needed to make a move on Vere, he would have to up his game all by himself.
Dustin’s thoughts rocketed him to his feet. “Charlie, you coming?” he taunted.
A direct challenge smoldered from Charlie’s gaze. “Not a chance. You two couples should go. I’d feel like a fifth wheel.”
Jenna gave Dustin a strange, almost apologetic look. “Uh...Dustin....I—”
Dustin grimaced.
Touché Charlie.
Dustin spoke up fast to interrupt Jenna, “If we’re talking about couples, then I should be the one to stay.” He paused, returning Charlie’s challenge with a small smile.
“What? Why?” Jenna asked.
“Jenna, Charlie’s got a crush on you. He told me all about it. I don’t want to get on his bad side for stepping out on a walk with a girl he considers his territory.”
“WHAT?” Charlie jumped up.
Dustin went on, “You two should go. With Curtis and Vere.”
Charlie fisted his hands and took one step toward Dustin. Dustin fisted his hands back.
Bring it. Just bring it. I am so ready to pound someone right now.
Mr. Roth put down his iPad. “Well, wow. If this isn’t news!” He smiled at all of them.
“Charlie, if you even start up anything,” Vere shouted, staring at her brother’s fists.
“Well. Now you’ve done it,” Jenna said.
“Done what?” Vere asked.
Dustin smirked at Charlie, but it wasn’t from the heart.
This whole thing was out of control. Why couldn’t he just step back and not care? Vere wants to be with Curtis. He should just let it happen. And now poor Jenna might get hurt because he couldn’t stop making up fake stories about fake lives!
Mrs. Roth saved everything when she interrupted, “Charlie, no need to be embarrassed. How sweet. Dad and I always suspected it. Have you asked Jenna to homecoming?”
Vere’s mouth had dropped wide open. “Charlie—Jenna, is this even true?”
It was so like Vere to believe stuff like this. Girl was too gullible.
He searched the back of his mind for a way to play it off and fix what he’d started without any of this impacting Jenna’s feelings.
Jenna didn’t give him a chance. She spoke up again, “Whoa. Okay now...just hold up.” She held up her hand and pointed at Charlie. “You can just sit back down and uncurl those fists Mr. Testosterone. First. Dustin and I are just friends.” She smiled at Dustin, and went on, “Mr. and Mrs. Roth, I’m sure you’re happy about this finally coming out in the open, but Charlie and I are NOT going to happen. It’s no secret Charlie holds a candle for me. He always has, but there is no way I would go to homecoming with him. Even if he begged.”
“What the...gah?” Charlie stammered.
Dustin’s chin hit the floor.
“As for trekking around the lake as a couple? I’m just not sure.” She flipped her ever present, long blonde braids back behind her and regarded Charlie solemnly.
“Oh? Why?” Mrs. Roth asked, glancing at her husband.
“What?” Vere and Dustin asked at the same time.
“Yeah. What are you talking about, Jenna?” Charlie managed to strangle out.
Jenna held up her hand again and turned her attention to the adult Roths. “Mrs. Roth, no disrespect meant to your son, but I mean to marry Charlie Roth some day. If he takes me to homecoming, I think it’s just too soon. It would mess up my plans. I don’t have him on my dating calendar until after college.”
Charlie dropped back onto the couch. His expression had gone wild as though he wanted to run out of the room. His wide open mouth mirrored Dustin’s, only more so.
It had fallen open so wide bats could fly into it.
“Jenna, seriously. You are the most messed up person I’ve ever met—and—and—I—what the hell—” Charlie choked. It was a desperate attempt to play this off, and it had failed. The guy was trying very hard to act cool, but he’d blown that about two gaping minutes ago.
Dustin noted with cheer that Charlie was acting exactly like Vere. His stuttering was hilarious, and the kid’s face had turned a show-stopping beet red.
Well who knew?
Dustin murmured just loud enough for everyone to hear. “People say there’s a fine line between love and hate. Hmmm. Interesting.” He laughed.
Mrs. Roth seemed to be holding back her own laughs. “Well, Jenna, I suppose it’s good to wait. If you think it’s best.”
Charlie sputtered and flailed his arms from across the room. “You have got to be kidding. Mom. I’ve got no crush on Jenna. And, she’s the last person on this entire earth I’d ever choose to marry, let alone take to HOMECOMING. GOD, SAVE ME!”
Jenna sighed as though she could care less what Charlie had to say about it, and continued, “Charlie, it isn’t the guy that does the choosing. And I’ve chosen you.”
“Mom. Vere. Make her stop,” Charlie moaned. His face had turned even redder.
“Dude. You’re looking like spicy-red-hot candy.” Curtis laughed too. “I bet you do like her!”
Dustin tossed a glace at Vere, wondering if she’d known about this, but she appeared as surprised as everyone else.
“Statistically Charlie,” Jenna announced, with absolute calm, “the guy usually does the ASKING—with the ring. Eventually, you will have to step up. So, yeah." She shrugged. "Even though you asked, I’m not going to homecoming with you. I hope that doesn’t hurt your feelings.”
“I didn’t ask you to ANY dance! What the hell?”
“Maybe prom, but let’s see how it goes.” She blinked.
Vere giggled and locked eyes with Dustin who was having his own difficulties keeping more laughter in check.
Curtis laughed louder.
“Call the cops. Dad, give me your car keys. I’m driving out of here,” Charlie cried.
“You’re so funny,” Jenna laughed. “It’s one of the reasons I do like him,” she added, turning to Mr. Roth. “A sense of humor is so important.” She smiled.
“How did you come up with this ‘girls choose’ idea?” Mr. Roth asked.
“One of last year’s social experiments. I’ve surveyed about two hundred parents. Their marriages ended in The Big D if the man was the one who chose the girl. It’s practically a scientific fact that the guys don’t know how to select a quality, lasting mate. All you have to do is compare back seasons of The Bachelor against The Bachelorette. Every time the guy chooses, the couple bombs!”
Mr. and Mrs. Roth burst out laughing along with Vere, Curtis, and Dustin.
Mr. Roth nodded at Charlie. “She’s right, son. Your mom picked me, and I did the asking. There could be something to this. You might as well fold. Beg
her to reconsider the homecoming thing.”
“God. Don’t encourage her!” Charlie shouted.
“I suppose I could walk by the lake with you, Charlie, as long as you don’t mistake it for a date or do anything untoward.” Jenna tilted her head to the side and blinked at him.
“Anything untoward? Untoward? Crap. I don’t even know what that means!”
“This is why I am not dating you until after college. Your vocabulary is years behind mine. The sense of humor is good, but your temper is just too...loose cannon. I’m sort of waiting for you to catch up, here.” Jenna tapped her forehead and gained another round of laughter from everyone in the room.
Charlie pushed his hair back with both hands. “Vere, call her off, or I swear I’m going to—”
“Don’t be all insulted,” Jenna continued, “I’d like the inside to match the outside.” She blushed slightly then. “If you must know, I find you so beautiful on the outside, Charlie. No one’s cuter.”
“Bahfah-what?” Charlie stuttered. “Restraining order. I need a restraining ORDER! Does no one see that she’s scary?”
Jenna laughed, not offended. “Okay. I’ll walk by the lake with you. Just don’t try to hold my hand.”
Dustin almost felt sorry for the dude. He’d now turned even redder than Vere’s reddest! “I think thisssth istth ssstthoo sweet,” Dustin added, unable to resist rubbing some salt into this one. “Lettths’s go!”
Mr. Roth put the grate over the fireplace and came to his son’s rescue. “You youngsters have just inspired us both to chaperone you. Let’s all take a walk by the lake, shall we? Charlie, you look as though you need some air.”
Bonus!
“Good idea, Dad.” Vere seemed to breathe a sigh of relief, probably assuming if her parents were along, he and Charlie couldn’t beat the shit out of each other again.
Dustin hoped the same thing.
Curtis did not look exactly pleased with the situation, but seemed to be following along, two steps behind the conversation. With no fight, or personality, as usual.