AllFreeNovel
Share Us
He’s a star athlete. The class clown that everyone loves.
I’m a nerd who literally trips over her own feet on a regular basis. There isn’t much we have in common.
Especially since my plan is to become a doctor in a big city, and he’s on track to take over his father’s ranch.
That last path is typical around here. Kids grow up and carry on their parents’ legacy as sure as the rain falls. But while I’ll become a doctor like my mom, over my dead body will I become stuck in this small town. I’m meant for bigger and greater things.
I try to focus on the conversation with Owen and Riley, but my eyes keep straying back to Josh. I wonder what it would be like to be with him, to feel his strong arms wrapped around me, to have him kiss me.
But that’s just a silly fantasy. I’m not the kind of girl that guys like Josh go for.
And, besides, I’m not dating anyone in this town. What would be the point of that?
“Hey, you okay?” Riley nudges me with her elbow.
I shake my head. “Yeah, sorry. Just zoning out.”
“Well, we should get going,” she says, glancing at her watch. “I have to finish packing for New York.”
“Right, I should get home too,” I say, starting to walk away.
“See you guys around.” Owen raises his hand in a goodbye.
But as I pass Josh’s tree, he hops down from the branch. “Hey, Erin. Hey, Riley.”
My heart races as Josh falls into step with us. “Hey, Josh,” I say, trying to sound nonchalant.
“I was wondering if you guys were going to the party tonight?” he says, his bright blue eyes and blond hair sparkling in the sunlight.
Honestly, it should be a crime to be this cute. Not only does he have perfect teeth and a chiseled jawline, but he’s tall and nothing but muscle.
No wonder we’ve never hung out. I’m built like a coat hanger.
“What party?” Riley asks.
“At Fletcher’s Pond,” Josh says, and I feel a tug of hesitation.
Fletcher’s Pond is some historic, undeveloped land owned by the town. Technically, it’s closed after dark and no one should be there. The thought of sneaking around on town property in the dark doesn’t sound like my idea of a good time. Neither does potentially being caught.
But before I can answer, Riley says, “We’re in. What time should we show up?”
Josh grins, his gaze flitting over to me. “It starts at eight.”
I try to protest, but my voice catches in my throat. And Josh’s bright blue eyes are practically begging me to say yes. And when he flashes that dimpled smile, I’m sold.
“Sure, we’ll be there,” I say, and the satisfaction on his face is palpable.
“Sweet. See you guys there.”
As he walks away, my heart is pounding so hard it feels like it might burst out of my chest.
Riley and I head for the parking lot, and I feel excitement coursing through my veins. Maybe this is my chance to break out of my shell and have some fun. Maybe it’s time to let loose and take a risk.
“Oh my God,” Riley hisses as we get into her car.
“What?” I’m trying to play it cool, but there’s no point in front of my best friend.
“What do you meanwhat?” She grabs my shoulders and playfully shakes me until I’m laughing. “We’re going to a party with Josh! This is it, Erin. This is your chance.”
