First Date. Part 2

“Ace I’m really sorry but I've got to go, my friend needs me,” I said turning to him.
“Is everything okay?” he asked concerned. I shook my head quickly tears forming in my eyes. “Did you get a taxi here?” he then I asked, I nodded. “Come on, I’m coming with you.” I was going to refuse but I knew if something was wrong I might need him.

When we arrived I ran up the stairs to his apartment as soon as I could. The door was open and I walked straight in. Suddenly I froze and gasped. “Whoa!” Ace exclaimed as he walked in behind me. The place was a mess. There were shattered wine glasses, lamp shades on the floor, draws had been opened with the content scattered all over the floor, his books had been thrown all over his apartment and his TV had taken a serious battering. Just then I noticed Billie on the other side of the room holding the phone up to her ear. I looked over at Ace, he didn't say anything.
“Scarlett, he won’t answer his phone… I don’t know what to do!” Billie began sobbing. I started walking towards her when I felt Ace grab my hand and pull me back.
“Look out,” he said looking down at the floor which were covered in shards of glass. I quickly stepped around the glass and threw my arms around her.
“Do you think he’s been burgled?” I asked.
“I don’t know anymore, I just want to know where he is!”
“Erm guys?” I heard Ace call. We turned around and there standing at the door was a rough looking, stubble-faced James.
“James!” I exclaimed, “oh my god what’s happened here? Where have you been?” I ran towards him but then I froze. There was a guy standing behind him.
“You've got to leave,” he then said, his voice rough.
“No, are you serious, we need to call the police, you've been burgled!” Billie shouted.
“I haven’t been fucking burgled now leave me alone!” he suddenly shouted. This wasn't the James we knew.
“Dude,” Ace said, “were just trying to help you out” Ace went to put his hand on James shoulder and then the guy behind him stepped forward and blocked him.
“Get your hands off him,” he groaned. Ace stepped back and held up his hands.
“Fine, fine, Scarlett come on, were getting out of here.” He looked at me and then I looked back at James. I shook my head.
“I’m not leaving James alone here with this guy,” I said. I turned to James. “Please, please come back to my apartment, you look a mess.” I stared at him my eyes wide with desperation.
“He doesn't want to come with you, you stupid bitch, he’s my boyfriend he’s staying with me now can you all just fuck off!”
“Who the fuck even are you?! He’s never mentioned you before if you were his boyfriend we would know!” Billie suddenly screamed, “James is our best friend!”
“Fine, James, who do you want to be with? Me, who loves you? Or them, who just want to use you as their gay best friend like some kind of accessory?”
“What!” I burst; we've never treated James that way! Have we James?”  There was silence.
“Guys I’m sorry,” James suddenly broke down, “just leave, I don’t want you here.” I felt the pain in his voice but I realised there was nothing more we could do. I grabbed Billies hand and pulled her out of the apartment. I felt a suddenly chill as the door slammed behind us.

We contemplated calling the police but what could we say? Our friend wanted to be alone in his apartment but we weren't happy with it? It just wasn't right, why was James acting like this, he’s normally so strong and would always stick up for us, whoever that guy was had seriously messed with James and I desperately wanted the old James back. I knew Billie was thinking the same. I asked if she wanted to stay at mine but she said she would rather be alone. In all honestly I wanted her to say yes, I was scared to be alone after what had just happened. What if that guy comes after me? I know it sounds far-fetched but he was super creepy and I could imagine we ruined his night by being at James’s apartment. Once the taxi had dropped Billie of I turned to Ace.
“I know you hardly know me and I’d never usually invite a guy back to my apartment on the first date but, considering what’s just happened I really don’t want to be alone.” I looked down, I couldn't believe what I was doing.
“You want me to stay over?” He asked, a little confused.
“Yeah, you don’t have to though...”
“Sure, I mean my roommates away this weekend and I’m pretty freaked out too!” we both laughed. It was sweet of him to try to make me feel better.

When we arrived at my apartment I showed him around quickly and then went to change. When I came out he was sitting watching TV. I brought him in some blankets and a pillow.
“You wanna watch a movie or something?” he asked as I sat down beside him. I shook my head.
“This programme kinda sucks though” he laughed, grabbing the remote control.
“I hope he’s okay,” I said softly, biting my bottom lip. I felt Ace put his arm around me and pull me close.
“Just don’t think about it,” He said softly, “when he’s ready he will come back to you I’m sure of it.”
“I hope so, I really do…”

First Date. Part 1

Ace and I decided to go to a Chinese restaurant in Chinatown tonight. We were meeting at 6pm and I decided to hit the shops before the date. I met Billie and instantly asked her if she had heard from James.
“Nope,” she sighed. I bit my bottom lip, something was defiantly up. “I’m going round there tonight though, he’s got some serious explaining to do,” I nodded. Hopefully he was just busy or his phone broke or whatever.
“Well please call me if anything is wrong,” I smiled.
“No, I wouldn't ruin your date!” she replied shaking her head.
“Billie seriously, James is waay more important than this date, please don’t hesitate to call me if you need me.” She reluctantly nodded.

After trying on a selection of dresses I decided on a long-sleeved velvet bodycon dress however I wasn't sure on the colour. At first I was sure on black but after trying on the dress in the wine red colour I wasn't sure. I showed Billie them both and she thought the wine red looked better so that’s the one I bought. After we went back to my apartment and she helped me get ready. As she helped curl the back of my hair I got a wave of nerves.
“I haven’t been on a date in almost 4 months , what if I don’t know what to say…” I began chewing on my bottom lip; it was a habit of mine which occurred when I was nervous. I had been concentrating on studying for my my veterinary
“Scarlett, don’t be silly, you've been on plenty of dates!” she laughed.
“But not since,”
“Babe, when we were in college you were out almost every night, no calling you a slut or anything…” I gasped and she laughed, “Just pleaaase don’t tell me your now freaking out because of one jerk.” She was referring the Gary, my ex.
“It’s not that,” I sighed, “it’s horrible when someone cheats on you, when you know you just weren't good enough, what if he sees that in me too, what if we start dating and then he realises to than I’m too boring or too clinging or whatever I don’t even know why he cheated on me!” I was getting angry now thinking of Gary.
“Hey, hey!” she said placing the curler down and kneeling down in front of me, “listen, your perfect, Gary cheated on you because he’s a greedy dick and you were too good for him, all he wanted was a slut to mess around with a you wasn't low enough to be that girl.” Billie looked into my eyes and smiled. “Your only young, you've got soo much time to find somebody better, don’t be hard on yourself because of Gary, he’s seriously not worth it.” Billie was actually a year older than me, even though we were in the same year at school she was held back a year due to her language barrier. “Come on,” she smiled, grabbing my hand and dragging me off the chair, “look at you, your hot!” she laughed, I smiled. I did look good I had to admit, and it certainly was an improvement from last time I’d seen him. Just as she was picking me out some shoes I heard my phone buzz. It was Ace.

hey, I’ll be there in 15, looking forward to it – A x 

With butterflies in my tummy I quickly put on my shoes and coat followed by a cream scarf. I kissed Billie good bye.
“Good luck, she smiled.
“Remember what I said!” I called after her.

As I walked towards the restaurant I noticed Ace standing outside. The closer I got the more handsome he looked. He was wearing a smart shirt with a long, brown dark leather coat. His hair wasn't as straight as before and I liked it, it had some volume to it. I almost giggled to myself thinking of him doing his hair. Once I reached him I felt his hand slip around my waist as he pulled me in and kissed me on the cheek. “Hey, I smiled."
“Wow, you look amazing,” he laughed. I blushed slightly.
“Thanks, I thought I’d make an effort this time,” I laughed.
“You don’t need to, I thought you looked fine before,” he added. I smiled, even if he didn't mean it, it was sweet of him to say so.

Once we had ordered our food I noticed Ace smiling at me, that mysterious rough smile he had which was handsome, waay too handsome.
“What?” I blushed, “do I have something on my face?”
“No, no,” he laughed, “I’m just thinking.” I was about to ask what he was thinking about when the waitress came over with the food. We thanked her and then begun eating. We were silent for a bit as we ate. “This stuffs really good,” he nodded approvingly, “Here,” he said lifting the piece of chicken up with his chopstick and putting it onto my plate for me, “try some.” I bit into the chicken and he was right, it was really good. He then smiled again.
“What?!” I burst laughing.
“Nothing, nothing you just look really cute when you’re eating,” he laughed.
“Whatever…” I smiled. There was a silence again. “Tell me about yourself.” I smiled looking up from my food.
“Well, I’m twenty five, I've lived in the United Kingdom for the past five years, I like playing the guitar, I love animals-“
“Do you have any pets?” I smiled. He shook his head.
“Same with me, ive been thinking about getting one though.” He nodded.
“Cat, dog, hamster?” I smiled.
“A cat.”
“Because of where you live and your job?” he asked.
“Yup, I mean dogs are more loyal and fun but, I work all day which means it would have to be on its own, cats can deal with that more than dogs” I smiled. We carried on eating until he stopped and looked up at me.
“You wanna get out of here?” He asked. My eyes suddenly widened, was he suggesting sex?
“Don’t look like that!” he laughed, “I wanna walk around at bit, it’s a bit kinda, fancy in here,” he shrugged.
“Oh,” I smiled relieved he didn't think I was the kind of girl to get off with him on the first date; I’d certainly made that mistake before…

As we walked around Chinatown I realised just how much I liked the place. My mum used to take me there when I was a little girl as she could buy certain Asian ingredients from the supermarkets here which she couldn't find in the local Sainsbury's. Just as I was lost in thought I felt Ace’s hand grip onto mine and I smiled.
“What you thinking?” he asked casually.
“Just about my mum, we always used to come here.” He nodded.
“It reminds me of home I guess,” he then said. He stopped and turned to face me. He was about to say something then I heard my phone buzzing in my pocket. I laughed and excused myself before answering it.
“Scarlett you know I didn't want to do this but something’s up… you need to get down here.” Billie said down the phone. Suddenly I began to panic.
 “Oh my god Billie, is it James is he okay?” I looked over to Ace he looked concerned.
“He’s gone,” she breathed, “he’s gone.”

New Neighbors.

“sooo, was he a good kisser? I asked Billie as we ate our breakfast the following morning. I had noticed at the end of the night before we left they had a little make out session.

“He was okay,” she smiled, munching on her cereal.

“aaaand, you’re going to see him again?” James asked.

“I don’t know guys! It was just a flirt and a kiss!”

James and I looked at each other and laughed.  “I did give him my number…” she smiled.

“It’s about time one of us got a man,” James sighed, suddenly looking sad and distant. I nodded in agreement. In all honestly I did want a boyfriend, I hated to admit it but I’m very not very independent and the thought of having someone there for me felt very comforting, and also I missed the sex. But who knows, I still have my date with Ace and maybe one with Jake (guy I’d met on the train) so things weren't looking too bad.  We were all going home today and luckily the winds aren't’ as bad today so they train shouldn't be delayed.
After backing up our stuff and saying good bye to my family, which was pretty sad (I miss them already) we were on our way home.

As soon as I walked into my cold and empty apartment I knew I needed to clean. The place stunk like a fast food restaurant. The rest of the afternoon was spent cleaning my whole apartment out and re arranging a few pieces of furniture. The theme of my apartment was pink and white. I had white furniture with pink pillows, fairy lights, rugs, lamp shades, it was extremely girly, and the only guy who would want to move in with me would be James.  Just as I was lighting a candle, which was watermelon flavor and smelt delicious I heard a knock on the door. I wasn't expecting anyone over and usually they would buzz from downstairs. I opened the door and standing there was a cute man probably in his late twenties. “Hey, I just moved in next door, I just wanted to come introduce myself,” he went to shake my hand which was kinda awkward, however I smiled warmly. He was defiantly more my type than the guy id met on the train, his hair was dark brown and slicked back and I could tell by his worn, fitted jeans and rolled up shirt sleeves he had a nice style.
“Oh hey, I didn't realise the place had sold already!” I laughed, slipping my lose hair behind my ear.
“Yup, just moved in today, my fiancé is just sorting out the boxes, you should pop over sometime for a drink if you’re not too busy.” I smiled, he seemed nice, sucked about the fiance though I thought meanly.

“Sure yeah!”

“Do you live here alone?” he asked, looking behind me. I nodded.

“Yup…” I smiled.

“Cool, anyway I should be getting back to help Jane out, nice to meet you, I’m Matt.”

When I got back into my apparent I put my feet up and watched some TV. I then realised how bored I was. I began to really miss my family, my apartment was so empty and dull, I missed the noise and the action. I then jumped up and blew out my candle, I had an idea.

“Hey, I’m so sorry to be so intrusive but I wanted to ask if you needed any help unpacking?” I was standing outside the door of my new neighbours.

“Erm, sure hold on,” Matt replied, “Jane!” he called. After a moment or so a pretty, tall blonde girl appeared. “This is…”

“Scarlett,” I smiled.

“This is Scarlett, she lives opposite us, she came to ask if you needed any help unpacking?” Suddenly her face lit up.

“Oh my god, for real?” she smiled. I nodded.

“Yes! Thank you, you have no idea!” she laughed walking back into her apartment, I followed her, “I’m such a perfectionist aren't I Matt?” She laughed.Matt agreed sitting down at his desk. “And I can’t rest until everything is put away and you see Matt is extremely busy with an article he’s writing; ugh I wish somebody had told me moving was this stressful!” I laughed, she seemed bubbly, I liked her and felt kinda bad I was checking out her boyfriend… he was cute though.

Jane and I chatted for ages while I helped her unpack all her china and glasses. She told me all about her old apartment being tiny and they had too much stuff to fit in it, that’s why they had moved. She also told me about her career as a model which I found soo cool. She modeled women’s fashion in catalogs and magazines and she and Matt had met when he interviewed her for an article he was working on for his magazine. Apparently it was love at first sight and they had got engaged almost a month later. Maybe that was a little too fast, but they seemed happy.
“We actually have a cat,” Jane smiled, placing a set of cutlery in the draws, “he’s staying with my mum while we get the place sorted.”

“Oh really? I’m actually a veterinary nurse,” I smiled.

“Oh wow! I know who to go to now if my little baby gets poorly!” she laughed.

“Yeah, I love animals,” I smiled.

“Do you have any?” she asked. I shook my head.

“You should totally get one! Oh my god they could be friends, how cute is that!” she was giggling and I couldn't help but smile.

“I've been thinking about it, it’s just I see animals every day, but then my apartment is pretty lonely, that’s one of the reasons I came over actually, I've just been visiting my parents where there’s loads of company and now it’s just me, feels kinda sad,” I sighed.

“Oh, well you’re always welcome and I’m extremely grateful for the help!” she said. I smiled.

After we were done we exchanged numbers and I invited her round for a drink sometime. I was glad I had new neighbors who seemed really nice and I could see myself becoming good friends with Jane, she seemed like good fun. Just when I was getting ready for bed I heard my phone buzzing, it was Billie.

“Have you seen James today?” she then asked without even saying hello. I thought about it and then I realised I hadn't.

“No, I haven’t actually, have you?”

“No, I’m kinda worried, we normally meet on Friday nights but he hasn't replied to my texts all day.”

“Oh, I’ll try calling him.” I was worried now, James never usually went AWOL.

“He won’t reply, I've tried.”

“Maybe we should go over there,” I suggested.

“No, he’s a grown man he can look after himself I guess, perhaps he’s just busy.” I said.

Blast from the past!

The next morning I woke up to a disappointing text.

Sorry Scarlett, might not make it, the stations a nightmare, were trying though!

                                                                                                                                  – Billie x

“Great” I moaned, I really needed my friends here to cheer me up. I threw my head back onto the pillow and slept for another hour.

“Wakey, wakey!” I heard my mum calling as she walked into my room and threw back the curtains. I felt like I was a kid again.

“Ugh, is Mel back?” I asked sitting up.

“I don’t wanna talk about her.” She smiled, I was confused.

“Hu? Why?”

“She brought somebody back last night, I told em both to get out, I don’t really care anymore,” I knew she was angry but she kept her cool really well, I wish I could do that.

“When are Billie and James getting here?” she asked.  I sighed heavily.

“Well I’m not sure to be honest; I got a text from Billie saying their train might be cancelled…”

“Oh, that’s sad, I've been preparing my famous Risotto all morning.” I checked my phone again and since there were no more texts I decided I’d give Billie a call.

“Hey, what’s happening with you guys?” I asked.
“Well I think were in luck, there’s a train but it’s been delayed for the last hour, were just having coffee,” she laughed.

“Oh,” I smiled “I really hope you guys can make it, my sisters here…”

“Oh,” Billie replied, she knew my sister well enough to know already that it wasn't a good thing.

I got myself ready and decided to go take the dog out for a walk as I need to burn off all the chocolate and food I’d eaten last night. I walked through the fields and chased around after Lacy (the family dog) she was a border collie and super adorable. I was throwing her a stick when I heard my phone buzz.

Hey, hope you had a great Christmas! Lots of love, Ace x

I smiled as I read the text, he was defiantly cute.

When I got back home I was freezing. I got another text from Billie saying they were almost here and I got really excited again. I rushed upstairs and re did my make-up and hair (it was totally windswept after that walk) Id decided to curl it loosely and pin it back so it was some up and some down. I also got changed into a glittery red dress. Id decided I was taking them out for drinks after dinner. Once I was done I heard the doorbell ring.

“I’ll get it!” I called running down the stairs. I opened the door and there standing in my door step was Freddy Parker.

“Wow, flash back!” he laughed, I just stood there awkwardly. Freddy was at my high school and he was probably the creepiest guy I’d known. At school he had a crush on pretty much every single girl, but it didn't stop there though, he also decided to ask them all out, one by one and each one he confessed his love to, it was weird. However I felt pretty sorry for him and unlike the other girls didn't bully him and for that reason he wouldn't leave me alone.

“Hey Freddy,” I smiled, trying to sound polite.

“I didn't know you’d be here, I wanted to give this to your parents,” he reached into his pocket and pulled out a card, “come back for Christmas then?” He asked. I nodded and was just about to make an excuse to leave when my mum came up behind me.

“Freddy!” she exclaimed, “How good to see you, how’s your mum? It’s been so long.”

“She’s fine, I know, she’s always wanting to come over,” he smiled. I looked at him and realised he looked so different now, he looked better to be honest, less geeky and more manly.

“She’s always welcome,” mum then looked at me.

“Where you going all dressed up?" She asked.
“I thought I’d take Billie and James out for drinks after dinner, it sounded like they had a pretty rough day.

“Hey! You could take Freddy with you I’m sure you have lots of catching up to do!” I wanted to kill her.

“Oh no Mrs May, its fine-“

“No, no!” mum interrupted, “it’s Christmas! The more the merrier, right scarley” I didn't want to sound even more rude so I just nodded and smiled, and WHY was she using my stupid nick-name, it was like she was trying to embarrass me.

“Cool, where you planning on going then?” he asked. I told him where and when and then mum finally shut the door.


“Are you crazy!” I burst as soon as it shut. She ignored me completely.

“Isn't he a handsome boy now, and he was so nice to you, always buying you stuff-“

“He’s a creepy!” I exclaimed.

“Oh don’t be horrible like your sister,” she laughed.

“But mum!” Just then the doorbell rang again. If that was another creepy blast from the past I’m seriously going to scream. Luckily when mum answered it Billie and James were standing there. They walked in and told us all about the nightmare at the station.

“Some people couldn't even get home for Christmas! I felt soo bad for them, it must be awful!”

“I thought you’d have had a rough time that’s why I’m taking you out for drinks down the pub after dinner.” I smiled.

“Yes!” James laughed, “I've always wanted to go into one of them old country pubs.” We all laughed.

“James, it’s not like the movies you know,” I smiled. He looked disappointed.

“What no crazy grannies with shot guns and pistols? You’re kidding me!” he laughed referring to the movie Hot fuzz.

After dinner Billie and James got dressed up and we headed out.
“So what’s the deal with your sis?” James asked as soon as we were out of the house.

“Ugh, she’s just so horrible, apparently mum forced her to come here, she even pretty much said a one night stand would be better than seeing us.”

“Oh, where is she now then? Was she at the house?” Billie asked.

“Nope, mum kicked her out,” I shrugged.

“Shit, why?” James laughed.

“She brought back a guy last night apparently, mum just told her to leave.” We reached the bar and then I stopped.

“Oh by the way Billie, Freddy Parkers meeting us here.” Billie froze and the look on her face was comical.

“Your, your joking right?” she asked. I laughed.

“Unfortunately not.”

“What, why, how did that even happen?!” she burst as we walked into the pub looking for a table. Just then Freddy came over.
“Hey guys!” he smiled, “Billie!” he exclaimed, “wow your looking great! Let me get you a drink,” Freddy was seriously checking her out, why didn't I get that reaction?

“Oh, thanks, red wine please,” she smiled. Freddy then walked away to get the drinks.

“What about me?!” I laughed.
“Wow, he’s gotten, I mean I never thought I’d say this but… he’s HOT!” Billie said. James shrugged.

“He’s okay I guess but the colour pink reaaly doesn't suit him, maybe a darker pink but that rose colour is waay to harsh for his skin ton-“

“but he’s hot right? I’m not going crazy here?!” Billie burst.

“I guess he’s better than he was before…” I shrugged.

“He’s my type though, look at his bum!” she giggled. James looked over and nodded in approval.

“That sure is a great bum.” We all laughed. Just then he came over and sat beside Billie.

“Don’t worry babe,” James whispered, ill get you a drink, come on,” James smiled. I was reluctant to leave Billie but she seemed pre occupied with Freddy, was this really happening?

James and I sat down at the bar and he ordered himself a beer and me a white wine. “Right now tell me what’s the deal with this Freddy bloke because my teeny brains a bit confused.” He said, taking a sip of beer (it reaaly didn't suit him but he wanted to go for the country pub look) I sighed heavily.

“He’s just this dude from high school who was desperate to get a girlfriend and asked everyone out, he wasn't bad or anything, he just wasn't cool and I guess in highs school being un-cool was a serious no-no dating wise,” I kinda felt guilty, “it’s just weird seeing Billie with him, and him looking so, well, cool.” James laughed.

“Hunnie sometimes you just got to see it on the bright side, they look as though they are getting on, and if he’s nice then what does it matter?”

“I know, I know, it’s just weird, something’s just weird,” I sighed. 

Christmas Arguing,

The next morning I woke up to the sound of the shower running. I got up and fixed my messy hair before running into Max’s room. “Race you!” I shouted with a laugh. It was a tradition that we always raced down to the tree on Christmas morning. This time I won. “Ha!” I laughed.

“Whatever!” he moaned with a smile. We sat down by the tree and waited in anticipation until mum and dad came down stairs. I did feel kinda silly at my age getting excited by Christmas presents but I hardly got to see my brother anymore and I didn't want to seem all grown up and boring to him.

“Right, right you can open them now,” mum laughed entering the room, followed by dad with the tea. I grabbed one of my presents from my parents and unwrapped it.

“Aw, thank you!” I exclaimed, they had brought me a new set of make-up brushes which I’d asked for. I also got a few CD’s, a Chris Hemsworth calendar (soo freaking hot!) and I pretty Swarovski crystal necklace in my birthstone colour, Amethyst (purple.) My brother got some new clothes, a new shaver, a football magazine subscription and some computer games.  Id bought my mum a silver necklace with a watering can on it (she had recently gotten into gardening) and my dad a fancy new calculator. Just as we were opening cards for relatives my sister walked into the door.

“Hey guys,” she smiled, dumping her bag on the floor and slouching down on the sofa.

“Here,” I smiled handing some of her presents.

“You got me stuff?” she asked confused.

“Yeah, got you something little and mum and dad got you stuff.” I smiled.

“Oh, I didn't think we would still do that?” she laughed, ripping open the present. I took it she didn't get us anything.

“Oh great… erm thanks sis,” she smiled dumping it on the side and getting out her phone. She was twenty four and still acted like a teenager. We carried on opening the cards and calling family members back in the Philippines wishing them all a happy Christmas while mum made us all some breakfast. 

After breakfast Mel and I helped wash up. “So how’s America?” I asked, almost envious.

“Its waaay better than here,” she smiled, “I mean everything bigger and better and the people are so much nicer and the guys, oh my god,” she laughed, drying a bowel. I smiled.

“Aren't you glad to be home though?” I asked.

“Well, the truth is mum hassled me for days and days and pretty much guilt tripped me into this whole visit, I was quite happy you know going to one of the pubs and hooking up on Christmas eve,” she laughed. I was silent, why was she so selfish? “I mean wouldn't you? I've done this while present, family, eating thing for twenty four years now, it’s just boring but I guess “Christmas wouldn't be the same without me” would it?” she grinned almost smugly.

“Mel, you don’t have to be so mean, you live in America, they hardly see you, it’s not like you visit them, all they want to do is spend time with their daughter and its Christmas, who wants cheap meaningless sex on Christmas?”
“I do!” jeez when are you gonna grow up and live a little?” I put the plate I was drying down.
“You know what? You’re the childish one, you’re bratty and selfish, you can’t even be happy to see your own family, I wish you’d never even bothered coming here!” I shouted.
“Scarlett why are you being all psycho?! You’re not ten anymore!” she shouted back.
“I just don’t get you! One day, that’s all it was, one day you just had to smile and be nice and at least pretend to be happy to see us!”
“Oh my god calm down!”
“No!” I shouted, “and you know what thanks, thanks for the presents for the Christmas card for the calls telling me how you were, the sisterly chats we NEVER have!” I was almost screaming now.
“Go away Scarlett, your just annoyed I’m not here with a boyfriend for you to steal…”
“What the fuck?! Is that what this is about?” When we were in our late teens, before she had moved out, Mel had a boyfriend who fancied me, I know I was in the wrong and if it had happened now I promise it wouldn't have turned out the same way but basically we saw each other behind her back and eventually she found out.
“You always get anything you want, I bet mum and dad brought you everything you wanted for Christmas and pay for your stupid apartment and car so you can drive to your stupid job, what do you do again? Oh yeah cut open little animals, how glamorous” she mocked. I shook my head in disbelief. “Anyway you stay here and play happy families, I’m going out.”
“Next time stay in fucking America!” I shouted before she slammed the door. 

After she had gone Max let me play with him on his new Xbox game. Who knew shooting pixel people could relief so much stress?
“Don’t worry about Mel,” he said, “She’s just jealous because everyone likes you more and you’re much cooler.” We both laughed. After a few more rounds of his game I got up.
“Come on, let’s go help mum with dinner.
“Your my favourite sister anyway,” he said turning off his game. It was sweet of him to say that, I don’t think he meant much saying it but it meant a lot to me. I loved my family I couldn’t see why my sister had become so selfish and mean. Anyway it didn’t matter anymore; I wasn’t going to let her ruin my Christmas.

The rest of the day was great. A few family members came over and we watched some TV and played games. Even though I was angry at my sister I did kinda miss her. Maybe tomorrow we could try to fix things…

Home sweet home.

The next morning I woke up and hit the gym for a couple of hours before returning home, showering and getting myself ready to go to the station. I was getting the train there and I knew the station would be extra busy since everyone was traveling just before Christmas. I was just packing the last of my things when I heard my phone buzz.
“Hey hunnie!”
“Hey mum!” I laughed, pleased to hear her voice.
“I was just calling to check you were still coming over.”
“Of course,” I laughed, “I’ve been looking forward to coming home for ages!”
“Your sister is coming too!”
“Wait, Really?” My sister is three years older than me and now lived in America, I was seriously surprised she was coming home for Christmas.
“Yes, she called this morning and said she was catching a flight over here tonight, she will be here tomorrow, If the weathers not too bad..”
“That’s great I can’t wait to see her!” I genuinely was pleased to hear she was coming, even though we weren't always the best of friends. 

Waterloo station was heaving. As I scanned the board for the next train to Haselmere I got knocked by about three times by scurrying business men with no manners. I found the platform number and dragged my suit case onto the train as fast as I could; I needed to get a seat. The train was about an hour and a half and for the majority of the trip I sat and stared out of the window watching as the tall grey buildings faded and pretty country scenes appeared along with rows and rows of trees which didn't see much of in the big city and defiantly missed. Even though the vet surgery was just outside of the center of London and therefore easy for me to drive to I still didn't get that open space id been craving for a while now. I was lucky my train wasn't delayed, I’d heard on the news the weather had cause lots of delays and cancellations. I lifted my eyes away from the window and noticed a smart looking business man, probably in his early thirties watching me. I quickly looked away but when I looked back over he was coming towards me.
“Hey, I’m sorry; I never normally do this but, would you like my number? I mean I’d love to take you out somewhere when you’re not busy.” I looked at him blankly. I wasn't expecting to be asked out on a date.
  
“Oh,” I smiled, “sure, I’m just heading to my parents for Christmas, maybe we could go out after?” I told him. He smiled, he had a handsome smile. He had short brown hair and was quite athletic looking, especially for a business man. However he was quite plain and ordinary looking.
“I’m Jake by the way,” he smiled, flashing his white teeth. I smiled back. Maybe he was more Billie's type…

When I arrived at my parents I was greeted by hugs and kisses and I felt warm inside.

“Look at the tree!” explained my mum, dragging me into the living room. She was a short Filipino woman (a little shorter than me, I’m 5.1) with cropped black hair.

“It’s great mum,” I laughed. Just then dad walked into the room and I ran to give him a big hug.

“How’s work?” he smiled, it was typical that dads first words to me after not seeing me for months were about work.

“Fine as always,” I smiled rolling my eyes.

“Good girl, now let’s eat!” he laughed.

“Whens Mel getting here?” I asked, helping to set up the table for mum. Melanie was my older sisters name.

“Not till tomorrow, I’ll save her some,” she smiled. For dinner we had Sinigang which is a Filipino stew dish made with pork and flavored with tomato, string beans and taro, it’s also eaten with rice. It was super yummy and after all the pizza take-away I'd eaten over the last couple of months I really appreciated some good home cooked food, especially made by my mummy.

 

After dinner we sat in the lounge and mum chatted on and on about family members and plans for Christmas. I told her about Billie and James coming over on boxing day and she got really excited saying what she was going to cook and prepare for us (she loves having guests over) and I felt relaxed and happy. Dad asked me some more questions about work and how my training was going. I told him I was pleased and even if I’m working and I veterinary nurse till next year (which is probably likely) I’d still be happy as I was enjoying my time working there and learning from Michael. He seemed pleased which was great. I grabbed the presents I’d packed for my family and placed them under the tree along with the others. Just when I was getting a snack from the fridge I heard the front door open.
“Hey,” I heard a familiar voice call out.
“Max!” I shouted, “I’m in here!” Max was my little brother, he was sixteen now and I couldn't believe how tall he had gotten.

“Wow dude!” I laughed, giving him a massive hug, “how’s things?” I smiled ruffling his hair up. 

“Oi!” he laughed, “things are okay.” He shrugged.
“Good, how’s school, how’s your friends how’s Suzy?” I giggled, Suzy was his girlfriend.
“Fine, fine, fine.” He groaned getting left overs out of the fridge. In a funny way I’d missed his teenage-ness. I wanted to say more to him but he was obviously tired, he’d just got back from football training so I went upstairs.

Upstairs I unpacked my stuff and placed it into my old room. It felt strange being in there again now I was older; it was like I didn't fit. I had a long bath and washed my hair. I found my old diaries from when I was younger and sat up reading them and giggling to myself until I drifted off to sleep. 

Hello again.

“Oh my god was he really that cute or are you exaggerating?” Billie smiled as she bit into her pizza. We often had very different tastes in men. She preferred the tall, strong blonde guys where as I preferred dark haired guys who were different.

“No!” I exclaimed, “He was perfect I mean, his face was at least...”

“What about his personality, you didn't just stare at him did you?” she laughed.

“No, no, I talked to him, he offered to take me to the cafe over the road-“

“Cafe?!” she laughed. I looked puzzled. “Well it’s hardly the classiest of places is it?”

“I don’t think it was about class, I think it was just convenient.” I shrugged.

“Well, I guess it could have been worse, are you gonna call him?”

“Do you think I should?” I asked, nibbling on my pizza.

“Well, you should give it a chance, even if it is just for the sex,” we both laughed.

“I just don’t know if he would be interested in me still… I mean what if he’s forgotten who I was, that would be awkward,” I smiled.

“He wouldn't have, he must have liked you, and you said you were drenched when he approached you, next time you meet him you’ll look great and he will be shocked… the good type of shocked!” we both laughed. I grabbed another slice of pizza. “I’d leave it a few days though, you don’t wanna seem desperate.” I nodded, she did have a point but then Billie always did. The thing with Billie was she cared too much about what other people thought of her, she followed all these dating rules which apparently would guide you to your prince charming but then she was single so she had no proof it really worked. The main rule was the keeping busy rule. According to her you should never accept a guy’s first offer, if he says Wednesday night, you’re busy. Even if your plans consist of nothing but stuffing pizza in your mouth and watching endless trashy reality TV, you’re still busy. It had always sounded silly to me but I never bothered arguing my point, she was the queen of arguing back.

After Billie left I realised I was lacking in essentials for my fridge so I threw on my coat and drove to the nearest convenient store. It was Christmas Eve tomorrow and I was visiting my parents but I still needed food for tonight and the morning. I was whizzing around the store when I turned around and knocked into someone’s basket.
“Whoa, I’m sorry!”

“It’s fi-“our eyes met and I realised who it was and suddenly I felt my cheeks begin to burn up.

“Hey again!” he smiled. It was the guy from the surgery.

“Hey,” I smiled back, turning to my ugly self away from him. I was wearing my pajama bottoms and my hair was thrown up in a messy bun, also to top it all of I was make-up less.

“Fancy seeing you here,” he reached down and held up a pint of milk, “emergency,” he laughed. I nodded relating to him. “Any way I was thinking I never did catch your name…”

“Scarlett, and I’m sorry I haven’t called I was meaning I-“

“Shh its fine, anyway its Christmas I'd expect you to be busy” he laughed. I blushed.

“I just wanted to take you out to dinner some time, maybe after Christmas if you’re up for it, don’t feel pressured now you've bumped into me again.” He was so damn handsome.

“No, I want to,” I smiled.

“Sure, sounds good, you decided when and where and text me okay? I'm Ace by the way” I smiled and nodded. Ace was a hot name...

“I defiantly will this time,” I added as he walked away.

As soon as I got home I was on the phone going over the whole situation with Bille.

“I sounded waay to desperate didn't I,” I gushed, “It’s only been one day!”

“Yeah, you’re lucky if he even remembers you after Christmas…”

“What?! Oh my god I blew it didn't i?” I threated.

“I’m joking,” she laughed.

“It’s not funny, I really like him.”

“Listen, it’s okay, chill, if he likes you after seeing you soaking wet with frizzy hair and in your pajamas with no make-up on then you can safely say he’s the one,” she laughed.

“I guess he doesn't like me for my looks…” I smiled.

“You still going to your parents from Christmas?” She asked.

“Yeah, I’m soo glad today was the last day at work, I still haven't gotten round to talking with Michael, I guess it will have to wait till after Christmas, I’m just relieved to get of work for a few days.”

“Me too, James and I are meeting up, we were gonna invite you but your away…”

“Hey, why don’t you guys come to my parents on boxing day? There always saying I should bring friends over.”

“In Hampshire? Jeez I haven’t been out of the city in ages, yeah sure, I’ll talk with James.”

“Great!” I smiled.

I was pleased my friends were coming over for Christmas, I loved my parents to death but sometimes they got a little too much.

Beautiful stranger.

That night I woke up to my phone buzzing. I glanced at the alarm clock. “4am?!” I groaned, reaching for my phone. I had 4 missed called from Michael. I sat up and cleared my throat before calling him back.

“Hey, what’s up, I’m not on call am I?” I groaned.

“Scarlett it’s a nightmare, the roofs leaking, there’s water everywhere, I don’t know what we’re going to do!” I suddenly woke up.

“What, Where?” I asked.

“At the surgery, the wind was crazy last night.”

“Shit… do you want me to come down?”

“No, no” he replied, “I was just warning you not to bother coming into work tomorrow, but you might be needed elsewhere.” It was common that when surgeries were closed for whatever reason vets and nurses could be used at another surgery near by if they were low on staff.

“Are you sure you don’t want me to come down? I’m awake now,” I asked, realising how worried he must be.
“No its okay, I’m sorry I woke you, I just didn't know what to do, but the fire brigade here now, also I thought you’d like to know ASAP.”

“Its fine,” I smiled, I was glad he thought so highly of me. We ended the phone call and even though I was worried I found myself fast asleep again.

When I woke up It felt strange not going into work, I even called Michael again just to double check I wasn't dreaming. I took an extra-long shower and straightened my hair. I also decided I’d put more make up on than just the usual mascara as I found myself with more time to spare. I was just surfing the net when I got a phone call. It was Michael.

“Hey, it’s me; would you come down to the Bridge road surgery? We’re moving the animals over there, the place is completely flooded and damp.”

“Sure, I’m on my way.” I jumped up and grabbed my bag. Being stuck at home really was boring.

When I reached the surgery I realised just how bad it was. Apparently what happened was a tree had fallen down and hit the side of the building and then the rain collected onto the damaged roof until it had eventually caved in.
“Are they all okay?!” I asked when I saw Michael walking towards me holding a portable cat carrier.

“Luckily they are all fine, just a bit distressed, the carriers are in the back of the van.” He nodded towards to van and I hurried over there. The rain was still pouring and it took a while getting all the animals to cooperate but after an hour or so they were all done.

After placing the last animal in I drove myself to the other surgery. Luckily there was enough space for them all and after making them all comfy in their temporary homes I was offered some coffee the break room. Just as I was texting Amy I heard a unfamiliar voice.
“Hey, you must be exhausted, would you like something to eat?” I looked up and there standing above me was the most beautiful man I’d ever seen. He was tall and had jet black hair which was just long enough for him to tie back into a slick ponytail. I opened my mouth but felt the words disappear. I watched him smile and it was a sort of side smile which was so knowing yet so mysterious at the same time. I then realised how awful I must have looked. My straight hair was now a bush of frizz and my make-up must have smudged in the rain.

“yes, yeah,” I nodded, “I’m starving,” I laughed, trying to brush of the embarrassment.

“Good, I would take you to the cafe over the road but, it seems pretty busy here so we should probably stick around.” I smiled, he seemed nice. We ended up sharing a sandwich he had made himself for lunch and ate while he told me a bit about his work. It turned out he was a veterinary technician (like me but more skilled in operations) and this was the second surgery he had worked at since moving over here from the Philippines where he was born and had studied. We had already discovered one thing in common, I was also half Filipino and we joked and laughed until we were both allocated to certain tasks. Just before we separated he took me to one side and gave me a folded piece of paper. I frowned.

“What’s this?” I asked taking the paper.

“My number he grinned, “Keep it a secret.” He then walked off. I stood still for a moment, taking in what just happened. Had I seriously just met an extremely good looking guy who was interested in me? Things were starting to look up…

Decisions, Decisions...

I spent the morning cleaning out the cages of the animals staying here and feeding them all. It was also grooming day which I enjoyed as animals were much better company than most people these days and also it got me out of the stressful theatre room. I had always loved animals, I’d been brought up with cats, dogs, and rabbits by whole life however since moving into my apartment and getting a job in a veterinary surgery I decided I’d have little time to care for one properly. Also caring for the animals here satisfied me enough. Just then I heard Michael enter the room. I smiled at him, continuing to brush down the Labrador.
“Hey, can I talk to you about something?” I stopped and looked up.

“Sure…”

“I’m thinking of starting a relationship with someone, I just wanted to see what you thought.” I sighed, was it really this serious?

“Oh,” I replied, not knowing what I should say.

“I know I'm still getting over the whole divorce thing, but I think it’s good to move on, put myself out there again, what do you think?” I smiled; I wanted to be pleased for him but Lucy? Really?

“Mike, just don’t rush things, I want you to be happy but I don’t want to see you getting hurt again.” He smiled.

“This time I won’t, I’m sure of it.” My heart sunk, I couldn't bring myself to tell him not to, he seemed too happy. 

After I left the surgery I called Billie and James asking them if they wanted to go out to dinner tonight. We decided to meet at the Indian restaurant which was our all time favorite and after a quick shower and change of clothes I was outside waiting for them. Once we sat down I sighed heavily.

“What’s bothering you?” Billie smiled.

“Ugh, its nothing, I’m just getting too involved in other people’s lives like I always do.”

“What do you mean?” James asked intrigued.

“Well, there’s this new receptionist at work, Lucy and she and Michael have been seeing each other, now I would be cool with this but the problem is she’s about 18 and Mikes coming up to 43 this year, I just don’t see it working, he asked me what I thought but I couldn't tell him what I honestly thought could I? He was so happy, I just don’t want him getting hurt again.” They both thought for a while.

“Well, id understand why you’d be concerned but if he feels ready to move on then how you feel is irrelevant,” Billie shrugged, taking a sip of wine.

“Tell him,” James said, “tell him the kids old enough to be his daughter and he should back off before she uses him for all his money and buggers off,” James smiled bluntly.

“James!” Billie burst, “he’s a 40 year old man, he’s a vet, he’s not stupid, I don’t think he would be that naive.” I nodded slowly, she was right, Michael wasn't a stupid man.

“Babe it’s obviously bothering you, just put it gently then, say you think he should be with somebody older, or maybe you could talk to her instead?” I looked up. “Just say you think he’s a bit too old for her and you don’t see it working.”

“Maybe I will, I mean Michael is the best boss I could have asked for, hes also a really great vet to learn from, I don’t want to risk losing my job by getting too involved with his personal life but I remember how down he got when things ended badly with his wife, he wasn't’t fun to work with then.”

Once the night ended I went to bed having decided tomorrow ill defiantly say something tomorrow…

Surgery Gossip.

I spent the morning in the office filing some papers for my boss. I was just getting done when I heard Amy pop her head around the door. Amy was a receptionist who had been working at the vet surgery a few more years than I had.

“Morning,” I smiled up at her.

“Morning Scarlett” she replied, “you’re in early,” she laughed, she was normally here before me.

“Yeah, I knew I had all this to do so I thought I’d come in early and get it done.” I told her.

“Wanna grab some coffee when you’re done? You wouldn't believe the gossip.” I laughed and rolled my eyes. Amy was the gossip queen, if anything was going on in the surgery she would be the first to know about it.

“Sure, I’m done now actually,” I said whilst placing the last folder back into the cupboard. We both got up and walked into the surgery break room. We poured ourselves some coffee and sat down.

“Well, don’t take my word for this but…” she started, “I think Michael and Lucy have been dating!” Michael was my boss and Lucy the new receptionist they had only recently hired. She was a young blonde girl only recently out of college.

“Michael wouldn't!” I gasped, “he’s only just split from his wife that’s crazy!” said thinking back to how broken hearted Michael had been after his marriage had broken down.

“Well…” she sighed, “She’s a pretty girl...”

“Yeah but Michael is more professional than that, he’s always warning me never to date within the company; I’m not even allowed to get customers numbers…” I trailed off, “where did you hear this anyway?” I asked.

“I didn't, I saw them leave together last night, I was working late and she was hanging around, and then when I went into the break room I heard a male voice which I’m sure was Michael and then when I came out they were gone.” She looked pleased with herself.

“Maybe she just wanted to ask him something then left?”

“That what I thought but then I remembered she had already left earlier today and when she came back she was all dressed up…” we both sat and thought. Just then Michael walked into the room.

“Hey ladies!” he beamed, grabbing a coffee cup. We both smiled and nodded. “We have a busy day today, Scarlett have you sorted out the files?” He asked. I nodded. “Great, we have Mr Burgess coming to collect today so I need you to give smudge a final check-up.” I did a mental note of the name and then I nodded.

Once I'd checked Smudge over and given him a good bye hug I ticked of his check list and placed it on the office desk. Just as I was placing it down my hand brushed against the computer mouse and the screen lit up. Lucy’s emails were on the screen and after looking around to see if anyone was there I quickly scanned the screen for any signs of what Amy had told me. I noticed almost half of her emails were from Michael and my heart sunk. I couldn't believe he would be interested in her, she wasn't even his type. Just then the surgery doors burst open and a little girl flew in.
“Excuse me!” she cried, “I found a cat on the road!” she suddenly stopped and burst into tears. I quickly ran out of the office and flew my arms around her. She was sobbing and shaking. After calming her down a bit I asked her to show me where the cat was.

We reached the road side and she was right. There on the pavement lay a little black cat curled up in a ball drenched in blood. I gently picked it up and took it back into the surgery.
“Mike!” I called. He came rushing out and after noticing what had happened quickly took the cat off me so I could prep the theatre table. After sterilizing the equipment for Michael I decided to give him some space while he prepared for the operation. I also wanted to see if the little girl was okay. When I walked back into the waiting room she was sitting looking white as a ghost with Amy holding her hand.

“It’s okay,” I smiled kneeling down in front of her, trying to sound reassuring. “The vets looking after the cat now, he’s going to do the best he can.” She nodded slowly. “Now I need to ask you some questions, is the cat yours?” I asked. She shook her head. “Do you know who the cat belongs to?” she shook her head again then burst into tears. Amy cuddled her just as a woman flew through the surgery doors.

“Where have you been!” she exclaimed. The little girl jumped up and ran into her arms.

 I explained the situation to the little girls mum and went back into the theatre room with Michael. After we had fixed the cat up we placed him into his own little cage and checked the records for any missing cats in the area which matched his description. We also made up some posters to place around to find its owner. The little girls mum asked us to call her if an owner for the cat wasn't found as she would be happy to adopt it. I felt relieved once the little girl was smiling again and I reassured her once more that we would do our best so she could take him home (the cat turned out to be a boy) and care for him. I didn't want to get her hopes up too much unless he didn't make it through the night but I couldn't hurt her feelings anymore.

Not you again.

The next morning I felt much, much better. I decided to get up early and take a well needed trip to the gym. I had only recently gotten into this whole work out thing, before I wouldn't even run a mile but now I’d been setting myself personal goals and I felt really good having something to focus on which also improved my health. I still ate a lot though; nothing was ever going to stop that but now I was feeling much more confident with my body and waay sexier. I sent Billie a quick text asking if she was free this afternoon and wanted to meet for lunch and then I hit the treadmill.

I was taking a quick break and taking a gulp of water when I heard a familiar voice from the other side of the gym. I glanced over and it was exactly who I thought it was, Gary.

“Dude, I've been waiting to go on that thing ages now!” I heard someone moan, “It would be nice if you actually took notice of others!”

“Five mins,” Gary panted in response.

“Fuck off!” the guy suddenly bust, coming at the Gary.

“You fuck off!” he shouted back, stopping the machine, “can’t I work out in peace without twats like you watching me, what the hell’s wrong with you?!”

“Is everything okay sir?” I saw a member of staff walk over to them.

“No, everything’s not o-fucking-kay! I pay a fortune to be able to use this equipment but when I try to do a serious work out I get people like this guy on my back, I’m cancelling my subscription here, you can all go to hell!” he shouted. I felt myself get embarrassed for him; he always knew how to make an idiot of himself. Gary was my ex-boyfriend, and he was an ex for a reason.  Suddenly I heard him shout out my name.
“Oh god…” I muttered under my breath.

“What you doing here!” he exclaimed grabbing me and pulling me in for an awkward hug.

“Isn't that obvious?” I laughed.

“God, you look great now!” My mouth dropped open and he got the hint, “not that you didn't look great before of course!” I rolled my eyes.

“Listen I've been wanting to call you, I wanted to ask you out, you know, on a date,” he was grinning and his eyes were drifting all over my body.

“No Gary,” I sighed, “I’m busy,” I said turning away.

“Busy?! I haven’t even set a date yet…”

“And you’re not going to, I’m not interested.”

“Your so stuck up you know that? All I wanted was a date, jeez, you think you’re so special don’t you?” I shook my head and raised my eye brow, was he being serious?

“Good bye Gary,” I sighed reaching for my stuff and heading for the changing rooms. I was so glad I was no longer with that obnoxious idiot.

I met Billie in a little Italian restaurant in town. When I walked in she stood up and gave me a hug.
We ordered drinks as she told me all about her day.

“It was a nightmare! Everything was a mess, never again am I taking on a work experience girl!”

“I’m sure she wasn't that bad,” I laughed.

“Bad? No, no, she was awful; she always comes in late, wears completely inappropriate clothing and has that I’m-waay-better-than-this attitude.” We both laughed. 

“Well you never guess who I bumped into today,” I signed, tucking into my carbonara.

“Who?” she asked stopping and looking up at me.

“Gary.”

“Oh my god, where?” she exclaimed.

“In the gym, he was hogging the equipment and he turned completely incredible hulk when someone confronted him.” She laughed.

“Did he talk to you?” She asked.

“Unfortunately, just the usual “I was gonna call you but it took seeing you in your gym clothes to jog my memory” type thing.” I replied rolling my eyes.

“He’s such a dick!” She exclaimed. We both laughed, knowing how right she was. When we were dating he cheated on me. I wasn't completely devastating; I was going to dump him anyway but it did hurt thinking I wasn't good enough for him.

After we finished of our food we decided to hit the shops for some Christmas shopping. We both got James a present. I got him the Sex in the City box set and a CD he’s been going on about for weeks. Billie got him some hot cuff links and a box of his favorite chocolates. I also treated myself to some cute new boots which I’d needed for a while now. 

Never Again

I woke up that morning with a pounding headache. I rubbed the sleep from my eyes and reluctantly sat up. “I drunk waay too much last night,” I groaned, closing my eyes and running my fingers through my black tangled hair. I slowly got up and walked into my kitchen where I was greeted by empty glasses, paper plates and a huge red stain in my carpet. “Shit,” I mumbled, moving in to look closer. I threw my head into my hands, “that’s gonna be a nightmare to get out.” I walked back into my bedroom to grab my phone, I needed Goggle's advice on this one, I had heard salt could help but that sounded way too easy. However before I even reached my bedroom I caught a glimpse of myself in the hallway mirror. I looked terrible. Black make up streamed down from my eyes and there were smudges of red lipstick all over my cheek. I knew I’d gotten drunk when I hadn't even bothered to take my make up off before crashing out. I took a deep breath a decided the first thing I had to do was get myself into that shower.

After showering, washing up what felt like a million glasses and throwing away a dustbin bag amount of rubbish I finally felt hungry. Just as I was getting my coat on I heard my phone buzz from the other room.
“Hey, how you feeling?” I heard Billie smile down the phone.

“Pretty rough,” I groaned, I thought about it for a bit and then I slowly asked, “what happened last night?” I heard Billie laugh and I knew it was going be bad.

“Well apart from confessing you love to almost every guy in the room, running around in your bra and trying to make out with James, nothing really,” she giggled.

“Oh Billie!” I sighed, “I can’t believe I’m so stupid! This is exactly why I can’t drink” I huffed.

“Oh, don’t stress Scarlett, it was fine, pretty much everyone was drunk so they didn't pay any-“

“But you wasn't,” I butted in.

“Well someone’s gotta keep an eye on the light weight,” she laughed.

“Shut up!” I laughed, “anyway, I’m heading out right now, gotta get some food in, I’ll catch you latter okay?” We said our goodbyes and I put down the phone.

I then realised I needed to call James, I felt so embarrassed but I knew he would understand as I was quite obviously drunk and I knew 100% that he was gay, he also knew I was never normally like that.
“Hey...”

“Hey babe, you feeling alright after last night?” He asked.

“No, not really, Billie told me what I did, I’m so sorry, I didn't mean it I-“

“Babe, chill, it’s cool,” he laughed.

“Are you sure? I mean it must have been awkward for you, you know I don’t fancy you in that way, I love you, just not like that!” we both laughed realising how stupid I was.

“I think all that wine got to your head,” he laughed, “trust me it’s fine, I’d rather you tried to make out with me than some straight guy anyway, he might have taken advantage of your drunk ass,” we both laughed.

“When you put it like that….”

“Listen you get yourself back into bed, don’t worry about last night, it wasn't your finest hour but you had fun and it was a great night.” I smiled down the phone, no matter how bad I felt, James was always there to cheer me up. I was grateful for my friends, I truly was.

 Billie and I had been friends since we were in high school, she was new to the school from Holland when I met her and I remember her not knowing a word of English which my thirteen year old self found very funny. The teacher paired us together and we had never separated since. James I had met later on in college. He was the eccentric joker who made me giggle throughout the never ending literature lessons - which is another thing I am grateful for. He always made it clear he was gay, I admired him for that, and he never hid away his sexuality or denied it which made me feel comfortable around him, as he was comfortable around himself.

After saying good bye to James I realised I needed to do some serious Christmas shopping, 6 days? Seriously?! However feeling hugely hangover and my head still aching, I decided I'd just get my groceries and go back to sleep.