Pretty Dark Nothing Read Free Page B

still sore from the piercing. “Yeah, I heard you.” He slammed his locker. “So she’s a little stressed. Haven’t you ever been late to class before? And who doesn’t talk to themselves once in a while? Maybe she was using one of those Bluetooth things, talking to someone on the phone.”
    “Hey, man, I didn’t mean anything by it.” Marcus raised his hands in surrender. “It’s just unusual for Quinn Perfect to be late, that’s all. You know I’d never dis your girl.”
    “She’s not my girl. And nobody’s perfect.”
    “Yeah, right. Not perfect? Look at her, man! The hair, the butt, the legs leading right up into that short little cheerleading skirt.” Marcus grinned. “Don’t tell me you don’t think about the short little cheerleading skirt.”
    “The skirt’s an added perk,” Aaron admitted. “And her smile.”
    “Yeah, her face ain’t bad either.”
    “And smart.” Aaron slipped his guitar plectrum from his pocket and twirled it between his fingers, wondering how many steps stood between them.
    “And still hung up on her ex. Seriously damaged goods, bro. Look, but don’t touch, that’s my advice. We’re seniors, man. You can have any girl you want. Have you seen the fresh meat walking the halls? Let’s line up for the all you can eat buffet.”
    “I’m full, thanks.” Aaron breathed deeply, ready to take the plunge. He’d do it this time. Talk to her, ask her out.
    “Why waste another day on Quinn with so many hotties running around? Jenna’s crushin’ on you. She’s hotness personified, and you two have a lot in common: music, the band, and those raging hormones.”
    “Jenna’s just a friend.”
    Fifteen steps at the most.
    “What about Marie? Oh, oh, Marie, now there’s a fine one. She’d give you a little something.” Marcus cleared his throat and put on his best Marie impression. “Oh, Aaron, he’s so mysterious and good looking.” He clasped Aaron’s shoulder, regaining his usual deep tone. “She called you man-candy. Can you believe it? You’re not as sweet as me, of course. I mean, I’m Godiva chocolate, and you, well, you’re more like a Goober.”
    Ten long strides, twenty short ones.
    “How come you never ask any of them out? I know a few who are a sure thing,” Marcus said.
    “Sure, Mr. Virgin. All talk and no action.” Aaron punched Marcus on the shoulder.
    “Hey, not so loud. You’ll ruin my image.” Marcus looked around like he was paranoid someone had overheard, and then winked at Aaron. “Dude, you could have a different girl every week, and you choose to be single. What’s wrong with you?”
    “I don’t have time for a girlfriend.”
    “Yeah, unless it’s Quinn. Besides, who said anything about a girlfriend? I’m talking about seven minutes in Heaven, man, not commitment.”
    “I have other things to think about. Like family, grades, college.” Aaron looked at his watch. Come on feet, move.
    “Yeah, and I’ve got a leprechaun living in my locker. You suck at lying. I will admit, she is seriously F I N E, fine.” Marcus paused and studied Aaron. “Wait. You’re serious? Were you actually about to ask her out? Is that why your shirt’s tucked in?” Marcus sniffed Aaron’s neck. “Dude, how much cologne did you put on this morning?”
    “Shut up.” Aaron untucked his shirt and mussed his hair. Looking like a poser was the last thing he wanted.
    “Man, I didn’t know you were serious. Forget what I said about her being damaged. If you really want her, I’ve got your back. Quinn is sure to need a little comforting. If you know what I mean.” Marcus puckered up and made kissing noises.
    “I was planning my move when your big mouth interrupted me.” Aaron slumped against the locker. “Anyway, it’s too late now.” Aaron gestured down the hall where Quinn had been joined by a group of friends.
    “You gonna let them stop you? You say Quinn’s not perfect, but you act like she’s the only girl in the world. Grow some