Chapter 77

It was now nighttime, and Alessa’s plan was in motion. She knocked on the door softly this time and Aspen’s face appeared.

“Ugh, not you again.” She groaned. “Kyle is not here.”

“I am looking for James, not Kyle,” Alessa said.

“James?” She slowly asked.

“He is here, isn’t he?”

“James,” Aspen called behind herself. A few seconds later, James and his crooked smile came into view. “She needs you.” She meekly added.

“Hey, what’s up?”

“Do you remember the grilled cheese you made for me on our date?”

“Um—yeah.”

“I am trying to make it but I keep burning the damn bread, can you help?”

“Sure.” James gave her a pensive look.

“Now? If you can come to the room with me?”

James looked at Aspen, whose face was contorted as if someone had farted. “Okay.” He stepped away from Aspen’s room.

“You are the best. I am dying for it.” Alessa cheered. They both began to walk down.

As they got further from Aspen, James asked, “What are you planning?”

“She is jealous. She likes you.” Alessa explained.

“No