8. You’re just new friends.

“I…”

“We’re just being friends, Joey, chill out.” Annette releases you but not without giving your butt one last squeeze.

“I didn’t know you two were friends…” He looks like he might not fully believe you.

“We… we’ve just discovered some shared interests.” You glance at Annette and see her suppress a giggle. You hope Joey didn’t see that.

“Right.” He seems to take it well. “Were we still on for hanging out for free period?”

You’d completely forgotten. Annette pipes up: “I gotta run to class, see you after school?”

“Sure, totally.” You’re caught a little off guard by her invitation, but you have to play along with your newfound friendship.

Annette gives you a little waive as she makes her way down the hall. You turn to Joey. “So, want to go get some coffee?”