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I glare at Austin. He continues to look at Mom, though I can see his mouth twitching. He’s gonna pay for that.
“I’m not sure an Academic Decathlon team is really what she needs,” Mom says, hesitantly.
I smirk. For once in my life, I’m glad Mom is not on board with something academic.
“Oh, but it would help her tons. It would teach her how to speak in front of a crowd and how to be quick with her words. Both of which are great stepping stones to helping her come out of her shell.”
I can tell Mom is mulling it over. Why does Austin have to be so smart?
“It would also help give her access to a whole new squad of friends. I mean, she can’t earn votes without people, right?”
“You know what, Austin, you might be right. She could get to know some more kids at school. And it would give Emma a good chance to practice being in front of other people. And an Academic Decathlon team definitely plays to her strengths.”
Wow, that was almost a compliment.
Austin is beaming. I kick his shin under the table and he doesn’t even flinch. He just continues to smile.
“What does she have to do to be on the team?” Mom asks.
“She does have to try out,” Austin says. But I’m sure she would make the team. Emma is one of the smartest girls in our senior class.”
“And when are try-outs?”
“Tomorrow, actually,” Austin says. “Mr. Graves wants to fill the spot as soon as possible. We have a competition next Friday.”
“Oh, how exciting,” Mom says, lifting her shoulders and rubbing her hands together. Competition is something my parents get. “Can you help Emma prepare for the try-outs then?” she asks.
“I would be happy to,” Austin says, grinning. “I will stay here, by her side, and help her all night if I have to.”
Mom reaches across the table and pats Austin on the arm. “You’re great, Austin, thank you.”
As soon as Mom leaves the room, I kick Austin harder. “What did you do that for?”
“Ouch,” he says, laughing. “I know you’ll be amazing on the team,” he says. “We really need a brain like yours. And I knew you’d never say yes unless your mom made you do it.”
“You used my own mother against me,” I say, folding my arms over my chest.
“I know I didn’t go about it the best way,” he says. “But at least I get to spend more time with you.”
“I did not need one more thing to stress about right now.” I turn my chair around so my back is facing Austin.
He just laughs again.
Chapter Nine
Walking into school Monday morning feels different. Several people say hi to me when I walk past. Tessa stops me in the hall and gives me a hug, which is just plain weird.
“Do you want to go shopping for Prom dresses after school?” she asks. “I’m going with a bunch of the girls from swim team, but it will be loads of fun.”
“Umm…” I say, glancing at Stephanie, who is staring at Tessa as though she’s some sort of alien species. “I’m not sure yet, but thanks for the invite.”
“Okay, well just text me if you change your mind,” she says.
As soon as she’s out of earshot, Stephanie grabs my arm. “I’m sorry, but you have Tessa’s number in your phone?” She asks. “Since when?”
“Since the party Friday night,” I say. “Tessa is actually really nice. She’s not nasty like the other Prom girls.
“Hey silky,” Jackson says, walking past with a couple of his friends.
