Misunderstanding (Nov 18)

“What are you, a ninja?” Bianca asked as her face turned red. George watched intently as the scarlet began at the collar of her pink sweater and climbed her neck then settled on her cheeks.

She was beautiful. He understood exactly why Steven told him to stay away from her. She was like a siren, and he had no hope of escaping.

Then again, it sounded like Steven was saying it more to protect his cousin. Not that George blamed him. Bianca was someone he wanted to protect too. More than he cared to admit.

George snickered at her obvious discomfort, wishing he could see her skin flush for other reasons. But at that moment, he was content with what he could see.

“I didn’t mean to sneak up on you. I was asked to get you guys back inside. Something about claiming seats?”

Steven and Bianca exchanged a look then dashed toward the door. George watched them run, Bianca’s long, thin legs easily keeping up with Steven, despite the six inches or so he had on her. George followed them, unsure what the rush was all about.

Inside, everyone was clamoring for a seat at one of the two tables. Bianca and Steven’s grandmother had a large dining room, an even larger kitchen, and overflow seating in the living room. It was obvious the kitchen table was mostly for the kids because of the tile floor, which was easier to clean up. The dining room appeared to be intended for the older crowd, and the living room geared toward everyone who wanted to watch the football game.

Except the living room was the smallest table. And it was clear that was the favorite table. Which meant someone would be stuck at another table.

Steven slid into a chair in the living room with Bianca next to him. George got into the room just as two others close to their age took two more chairs. He headed for the table just as the fifth chair was filled, which left only one seat.

Next to Bianca.

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