He tells you about Justin joining the trip

As you leave the bathroom after finishing your morning routine, you return to your bed and sit across from Jamal, who is still lounging on his own.

“Hey, you’re already done getting ready for today’s trip?” you ask casually, your eyes drifting toward the wall of posters behind him. Some of the symbols still confuse you, but maybe you’ll ask about them at the next BSA meeting, or even this Friday, since there’s going to be a party at Sarah’s house. You don’t really know what to expect, but you’re excited; it will be your first party in America. Since people under 21 can’t drink here, you’re curious about how it will go.

“Yeah, I finished before you even woke up,” Jamal replies with a grin. “I’m a morning person. Otherwise, I wouldn’t be able to fit everything I need to do into one day.”

You’re impressed, every new thing you learn about him makes him seem even more motivated. Waking up early every morning like that would be impossible for you.

“That’s crazy. Aren’t you tired getting up so early?” you ask. “I at least need my eight hours of beauty sleep just to survive the day.” The joke makes Jamal chuckle.

“Well, I’d say the beauty sleep is paying off, judging by how your skin is glowing.”

The compliment catches you off guard, and for a moment your heart skips a beat. Quickly, you laugh nervously. “Yeah, thanks. I do my best to keep my skin fresh. I hate how so many macho guys don’t take care of themselves because they think it’s ‘too girly.’"

“Definitely,” Jamal agrees, giving you a reassuring smile. “If I didn’t use cream every few days, my skin would start looking ashy.” He flexes casually, showing off his thick biceps with a bright, toothy grin. “I just want to keep my dark skin glowing like this.”

He’s right, you can see how the sunlight enriches the deep tone of his skin, making it seem almost golden. You steal a few more appreciative glances before asking, “So, what’s the plan for today? Is there a good clothing store nearby?”

“Not really,” Jamal answers with one of his easy smiles, “but we’ll head to the mall. It’s a bit of a drive, but it’s huge and has plenty of shops. We’ll definitely find stuff for you there.”

Your eyes light up. “We’re going to a mall? I’ve only seen those on TV or online. Are they really that big?”

“Oh, definitely. The first time you go, the size can be overwhelming. But I’m sure you’ll get used to it.” He smirks. “I know you can handle big things.” He laughs at his own innuendo before you can respond. “Also, I hope it’s cool with you, but Justin’s going to meet us there. He lives nearby, and since you two have a similar build, he can help us pick out pants for you.”

You’re surprised. Justin didn’t seem very social when you met him at the BSA meetup yesterday, but it makes sense, he really does have a similar frame.

“Oh, that’s thoughtful of him. Yesterday he didn’t seem super active in the group, but it’ll be nice to meet him in a smaller setting,” you say with a smile.

“Yeah, he’s a bit shy and reserved, but he’s a great guy. I really like that little dude.” Jamal’s smile turns warm. “Crazy thing is, he even offered to pay for everything as a welcome gift to you.”

You nearly ****. “What??” You stare at Jamal, wide-eyed. “That’s insane. He doesn’t need to do that, I have my own money.”

“Don’t worry about it. His family’s loaded. It’s nothing for him to support his BSA mates. And honestly,” Jamal adds, “with how outrageous tuition is here, if he wants to pay, let him.”

It still feels strange. You’ve only known Justin for about 45 minutes, and you barely spoke to him. But Jamal’s right—things here are expensive, and while your family has money, your budget for this semester is tight. A little help wouldn’t hurt.

“Yeah… I guess you’re right. I’ll just have to thank him, like, a thousand times,” you joke, making Jamal laugh.

“Maybe, but trust me, he enjoys it. Half the stuff Trent owns was paid for by Justin.”

“Oh, really? That’s very kind of him. Trent is lucky to have such a good friend,” you reply, confusion flickering across your face.

“Yes, definitely. The three of them are very close, and a lot of the time they spend their evenings together,” Jamal explains. “Trent likes hanging out with them, and Sarah is more than happy to have him around.”

Of course, Jamal knows that isn’t quite the full truth. Revealing the real nature of their relationship could seriously interfere with his plans. For now, you’ll just have to piece the situation together bit by bit. Since you’re still so oblivious to what’s really going on with Jamal and the BSA, he’s confident you’ll see things exactly the way he intends.

The dynamic between Justin, Sarah, and Trent still feels strange to you, but it isn’t your place to judge. Maybe you’ll learn more from Justin later, or at Friday’s party. You glance at Jamal, debating whether to ask him about the upcoming party now or wait for a better moment, especially since the two of you will have to leave soon anyway.