The Road to L.A. by Gina Buchanan Page B

popular cheerleader clique. That definitely wouldn't be happening now.  In her mind, Susan was her enemy.
    Carly slowed when she had reached the wooded area and slumped down on a large rock.  She buried her face in her hands and tried to steady herself.  She was in the process of calming her emotions when she heard the pounding footsteps approaching hastily.
                  “Carly!”
    She recognized the voice and at first decided not to respond.  But when the voice called out for her again, she spoke up.
    “I’m here, Jake.” 
    He followed the sound of her voice, and in mere seconds he was standing before her in the moonlight. 
                  “What do you want?” she asked in a small voice, hoping her eyes weren’t red and puffy. 
                  “I saw you take off.  You looked upset.  So I followed you.”
                  “I’m fine, Jake,” was all Carly said in that same small voice. 
    Carly was surprised when Jake chuckled and said, “You’re full of shit.  I know when something is wrong with you.”
    Carly didn’t immediately respond.  
                  “What’s wrong?  You can tell me,” Jake prompted.
    She sighed and looked up at her tall, handsome friend.
    “Why did I ever think that you would never end up dating some horrible, self-centered bitch.  I must’ve been crazy.” 
                  “Is this about Susan?” Jake asked. 
    Carly’s silence confirmed Jake’s suspicion. 
    “Are you jealous?” he teased, his blue eyes sparkling even in the enveloping darkness.
    Carly groaned and stood up.  Her temper was beginning to displace the sadness.
                  “Jake Harmon, I am not jealous.  And I don’t think this is funny at all.  I don’t know why you find this all so humorous.” 
    Carly turned and stomped off, walking further into the maze of trees.  Naturally, Jake was able to keep up with her, and he continued his banter.
    “I like it when you’re angry, Carly.  It’s really sexy.” 
                  “Yeah, screw you,” Carly spat.  “No wait, why don’t you go screw that skinny bitch.  It’s obviously what you want.”
                  “Now you’re starting to sound like Amanda, insulting people.  Who would’ve thought,” Jake said. 
                  “Yeah, well maybe Amanda and I know what we’re talking about.”
                  “Oh, come on.  This can’t seriously be about Susan.” 
                  “Yes,” Carly replied firmly.  She halted and turned to face him. 
    Jake emitted a huge groan to indicate his frustration.   
                  “I just can’t believe you fell for her superficial ploy.  And on top of that, we're all going to lose you.  She's going to snatch you away from us."
    Prompted by Jake's disbelieving expression Carly added, "Yeah, Jake.  She told me that herself.  She said she doesn't think it's appropriate that Amanda and I hang out with you anymore." 
    Carly turned and continued her trek through the cluster of trees.  Jake outpaced her.  He stepped in front of her and forced her to face him.  He held her delicate shoulders with his strong hands, forcing her to acknowledge him. 
                  “I’m not jealous, Jake.  That’s not what this is about.  It’s about the group, our group, and the friendship.”
    Jake tightened his grip on Carly’s shoulders. 
                  “I would never let anyone break up our friendship.  I care too much about you.” 
    Carly relaxed a little at Jake’s comforting words, and Jake smiled warmly at her.
                  “Alright?”
    Carly nodded meekly. 
    “Just make me a promise, Jake.  A pinky promise.” 
    Jake rolled his eyes.
                  “Come on.”  
                  “Fine,” he said, somewhat