Six
Buyinga box of condoms wasn’t the end of the world. We even went through the self-checkout lanes, so I didn’t have to speak to the person scanning and bagging the most embarrassing purchase of my life.
I shouldn't have been so self-conscious. It wasn’t like I was going to go home and use them all. It was just in case.
The girls were right. It was smart to have my own. No law said only guys could buy them, and making sure I had them meant I would be prepared if and when I was ready. I was giving myself options. That was all.
When we got to Gwyn’s house, and I’d hid my bag under the passenger seat, I looked around in awe. The four-story brownstone was exactly like what you’d see in the movies. Such a quintessential city home, complete with a small, gated courtyard and a beautiful park across the street. We were only two blocks away from Lake Michigan.
I remembered her sounding like she was bragging about living in the Gold Coast neighborhood when we first met, and now I understood why.
My house might be larger and more spread out, but as I stepped inside and took in the impressive interior, I gasped. It looked like much of the original flooring and woodwork on the door frames and walls had been preserved. The decorating was a perfect blend of chic modern and appreciation for the history of the house.
“This is beautiful,” I said as we walked down the hall to the bright kitchen with floor-to-ceiling windows framing the small, but lush, yard out back.
“My parents are at some event, so we have the house to ourselves.” Gwyn went to the fridge and pulled out a wine bottle.
CeeCee went to a cabinet and brought back three glasses without having to be asked. Gwyn started to pour the second when I spoke up.
“I don’t want any.” I expected either of them to make this a big deal, like our previous conversation, but Gwyn shrugged and went back to the fridge to switch out the bottle.
“This is sparkling cider, and it’s delicious.” She poured a bit into the first two glasses, then filled the third with the yellow, bubbling liquid.
“Thanks.” I took a sip and smiled. It tasted like the cider Dad got for me and Spencer growing up to celebrate the holidays but much better.
We took our glasses and headed upstairs to Gwyn’s room on the third floor. It was at the front of the house and overlooked the park across the street. “That’s quite the view.”
She crossed her legs with her back against the headboard of her bed. “Yeah, it’s always been my favorite part of the room.”
Even at night, it was spectacular with the streetlights only showing bits and pieces. I couldn't wait to see it in the morning. I sat on the cushioned window seat so I could take it in along with the street while also facing the girls on the bed.
“I feel like you guys know too much about me when I know next to nothing about you. It’s your turns.” I took a sip and waited.
CeeCee went first. “You know I’m bi, and I’ve only recently come out. I’ve only had one relationship with a girl—well, if you can call two dates and a few hookups a relationship. I’ve had a dry spell since then.”
“It’s been a long three months for her.” Gwyn patted CeeCee’s knee. “I was dating a guy, outside of the Society, of course, off and on for a while, but we finally ended things.”
“How do you know it’s for sure this time?” I asked, genuinely curious.
“Because we deleted each other’s numbers and wished the other a happy life.” She shrugged.
“Don’t let her fool you. She was pretty upset for a few days, but they’re both better alone than together. He was too much drama,” CeeCee explained.
“He was trouble,” Gwyn agreed. “I’m trying to convince my dad to bring up some sort of activity or conference for the Society kids to the council. There are plenty of guys and girls out there, but we never get to see. If they did a training camp or something in the summer, it would be a good way for us to meet each other.”
“That sounds like a good idea. What did he say?” I asked.
“The council still thinks we’re at risk, so he doesn't think getting us all together in one place is the best idea. Maybe next year.”
“Have you heard anything else about that? I just checked with the guys, and no one’s heard anything. Luca thinks his dad’s avoiding him on purpose.”
CeeCee dropped her eyes, and Gwyn was suddenly interested in her drink. I sat straighter.
“What is it?”
CeeCee nudged Gwyn. “Tell her.”
“I heard my dad telling my mom about a school.”