My books clutched against my chest, my cheeks flushed as I managed a sideways smile. Tim Flanagan stood right in front of me, complimenting my hair, my clothes, and whatever else popped into his head. I felt a flutter in my stomach as I watched Tim adjust his hair and wink at me. With unexpected delicacy, the Flanagan boy took my hand to say goodbye, saying we should pick up the conversation tomorrow or maybe "in dreams." A quick kiss on my hand, and he was gone.

The giggles from my friends, Rhonda and Elaine, started up again, though they had never really stopped. I smiled, feeling radiant, and turned toward the Pattycakes. Rhonda raised an eyebrow playfully while chewing her gum.

—So, Tim Flanagan, huh? —Elaine let out another giggle.

I shook my head, amused, and sought Patty's eye contact. She simply rolled her eyes and started walking. The other girls and I followed her. I arched an eyebrow at her behavior; just a few minutes ago, before my chat with Tim, her mood was excellent. I decided to ignore the strangeness and try to lighten the atmosphere.

—And what do you say, Pat Pat? —I smiled, speeding up to match her pace. I used the nickname that only I was allowed to use, hoping it would bring her back to a good mood. —Should I go out with Flanagan?

The leader of the Pattycakes stopped dead and shot me a sharp look.

—Please, don't be so naive. He's probably just looking to have some fun —she snapped. She paused. —He doesn't even like you...

My smile instantly dropped. I felt the hit, I have to admit it, but the pain quickly mixed with anger. It was the first time a boy had ever been interested in me. Rhonda and Elaine didn't make a sound. I gave Patricia one last look and walked away in the opposite direction.

...

Unfortunately, we had plans for the afternoon. The four of us were supposed to meet at my house to paint our nails, look at magazines, and gossip. And so we did, though I made sure not to address Patricia the entire afternoon.

Much later, when Elaine and Rhonda said goodbye, I walked them to the door. I expected Patricia to leave, too. But she closed the door immediately after my other two friends had gone. She crossed her arms and frowned at me. I ignored her, turned around, and walked back to my room. I heard her slow footsteps behind me. When I reached my spacious room, I grabbed a book from the shelf and intended to ignore her until she gave up.

—Seriously? —she said, with a tone of annoyance. I didn't look up.

—You’re not going to stay mad over that —she continued.

—God! Why are you so affected by one stupid comment— —she kept going, her voice rising.

I was fed up. I turned and quickly walked toward her, cornering her against the nearest wall.

—What? Why? It might be a stupid comment! But why does it bother you? —I shouted, feeling the rage climb into my throat. —Just once, Patricia, just ONCE! You’re not the one guys want. They try to flirt with me, and you say it's because they're bored. Does it bother you so much that Tim noticed me? Or what? Do you like him? Say it! If he knows, he’ll leave me and be your boyfriend. I’ll tell him if you want!—

I was about to continue shouting, tears of frustration beginning to form, but Patricia cut me off. Instead of backing away from my yell, she moved even closer, invading my personal space with an intensity that chilled my blood. Our noses were barely inches apart.

—He doesn't deserve you... —she whispered angrily. Her eyes locked onto mine, and for the first time, I noticed she looked desperate. —He’s an idiot, and I don't want you to date him! I don't want you to date anyone!