Page 35

Bonus Epilogue

Nathan

I’m leaning against the wall of the school cafeteria, watching Julia and Graham sway to the fast song playing, right in the middle of the dance floor. They’ve been slow dancing all night, no matter what song. It makes a lot of people look at them, and I’m sure that’s at least partially by design. It is on The List after all. They are so into each other, it’s like no one else is there.

My eyes wander to the other couples, stopping on Paige and Greg. They’ve been together for years, and I want to be happy for them. And I am, I guess, but also, I’m jealous. Did he get shot down before it worked out? Probably not, since they’ve been together since middle school.

Chloe is dancing with a group of people from student council. The song changes to a slow song, and I scan the crowd for Josie. I wanted to ask her to dance, but this is the fifth slow song, and I haven’t worked up the courage. I spot her by the drink table, and I start heading her way. I am almost there when a senior pops up and beats me to it. She flutters her eyelashes at him, grabs his hand, and pulls him to the middle of the dance floor.

“I guess he’s her type,” I grumble. I try to shake it off, but it really sucks. I’m a nice guy, not super outgoing, but I’m not a jerk, except maybe to Chloe. I’m good looking, if how often girls look at me and smile is any indication. Plus, my mom is always talking about how attractive her kids are, and we all know moms never lie.

I run my hand through my hair, forcing a breath out. I look around, trying to find an empty wall to lean against. My eyes pass over a group of girls, looking at me, obviously hoping that I’ll ask one of them to dance. I know I should, but I head toward a wall anyways. I see Chloe talking to one of the chaperones. She looks up and catches my eye, giving me a quick smile. I smile back, mostly as a reflex. I don’t hate Chloe, but she’s also not super high on my list of people I want to spend time with. Out of the corner of my eye, I see Travis Cooper heading toward her. Now, Travis is someone I don’t like. He’s a jerk to everyone, thinks he’s the best thing since sliced bread, and expects all the girls to fall at his feet. He’s on the football team, as if that makes him special. I mean, he’s pretty good, will most likely go to college on a scholarship, but still, he’s a jerk so all the rest of that fades in importance. On impulse, I head toward Chloe.

I stick my hand out, interrupting her conversation. “Dance with me?” Chloe gives me a surprised look before saying bye to the chaperone. She follows me to the dance floor before putting her arms on my shoulders. It doesn’t escape my notice that she didn’t take my hand, and I laugh to myself.

“What’s so funny?” Chloe asks.

“Nothing, really. I do want you to know that I saved you from Travis Cooper. He was definitely going to ask you to dance.”

“Ugh, yikes. Thanks for that.” We dance in silence for a few seconds before she starts talking again. “So, having fun?”

“Not really.”

“Yeah, I noticed you haven't danced with anyone. Even when Graham and J tried to get you into their group, you wouldn’t go. Why not?”

I grit my teeth, not sure I want to get into this with anyone, let alone Chloe. “Josie,” I grind out.

“No, I’m Chloe.” She smirks, knowing it will rile me up.

“No, I meant Josie is why I wouldn't dance. I asked her to the dance but she said no, that I’m not her type.”

“Ooh, the boy next door, Mr. All-American, not appealing to everyone? That must hurt.” I look away, trying to hide just how much it hurts. “Wait, you really are upset about this, aren’t you?”

“Well, yeah, It doesn’t feel good to hear that you aren't someone's type, and then see her flirting with every other guy at school.”

Chloe stares at me for a minute before nodding her head, clearly making a decision. “I’ll help.”

“Help with what?” I ask.

“I’ll help you get the girl. Josie is one of my besties. I can help you get the girl, become her type. We won’t totally change your personality, just emphasize the things she likes.” Chloe nods again, as if the decision has been made.

“What if I don’t want your help?” I ask, raising an eyebrow at her.

“Pfft. Please. I’ve watched you scowl at everyone for weeks. You want my help.” She waves her hand at me, blowing off my question. I stare at her for another few seconds and let my arms drop from her waist when the song ends. She stares back at me, a grin on her lips, daring me to agree. I hold out my hand for her to shake.

“Okay. I’m in. Help me get the girl.”