Dear No One,
I'm at a complete loss for words. Who would've thought Hurricane Orion would come barreling into my life with even fiercer winds and a whole lot more chaos? If you handed me a go-back button, I'd press it faster than you can say "carnage" and travel back in time to have my lunch at the cafeteria instead. Seriously, I'd happily endure mystery meatloaf over this rollercoaster.
Going crazy,
Saff
***
The party was set to start at 2 in the afternoon, but that didn't stop Bree from barging into my apartment at 8 in the morning, armed with a baguette and two cups of coffee.
"Rise and shine, my darling!" she announced, her voice filled with far too much energy for the early hour.
I groaned, squinting at her through half-closed eyes. I tried to pull my blanket over my head but she pulled it first.
"Bree, it's 8 a.m. The party's not for another six hours."
Bree stood there, arms akimbo, with a mischievous grin. "Exactly! That's six hours to transform you from Sleeping Beauty into the belle of the ball.
I sighed, knowing there was no escaping Bree's plans once she set her mind to them. "Fine, but only if I get to eat first."
Bree grinned, handing me a cup of coffee. "Deal. Now, let's get you caffeinated and fabulous."
As I took a sip of the coffee, I couldn't help but smile. Bree's enthusiasm was contagious, and despite my initial reluctance, I was looking forward to spending the day with my best friend.
"So," Bree began, settling herself on my couch with an air of purpose, "let's start with the basics. What are you planning to wear?"
I shrugged, glancing at my closet. "I'm not so sure if it's the best choice but maybe that beige dress by the closet?" She turned to see the dress and tilted her head sideways, the universal sign that she was in deep examination mode.
"Hmm," Bree mused, tapping her chin theatrically. "It's cute, but it says 'I'm here to blend in.' We want something that says 'I'm here to turn heads.'"
I raised an eyebrow. "Isn't that a bit dramatic for a daytime party?"
Bree rolled her eyes with a playful huff. "Saff, life is too short for boring clothes. Besides, you never know who might be there. Maybe even a certain Orion Montague." She playfully wiggled her eyebrows, and I immediately grimaced and shook my head.
"I want to wear something nice for myself, thank you," I responded with a stern voice.
"That's the spirit, girly!" She paused midway, then added, "Wait, are you dropping the whole Orion thing just because he's my ex?" She plopped down beside me, eyes wide with curiosity.
I took a big bite of my baguette and pointed at my mouth, indicating I couldn't talk. Bree watched me, unimpressed.
Finally swallowing, I sighed. "It's not that, Bree. It just feels weird. I mean, he's your ex. Isn't there some kind of girl code about that?"
She waved her hand dismissively. "Pfft, we dated for like two months in the summer of freshman year. Ancient history. Besides, if you like him, you should go for it."
I hesitated, unsure. "I just don't want things to get awkward."
Bree shook her head, determination in her eyes. "Saff, life's too short for regrets. If you like him, see where it goes. And in the meantime, let's focus on making you and I look absolutely fabulous for this party."
I smiled, appreciating her encouragement. "Alright, alright. But if I end up in some awkward love triangle, it's on you."
She laughed, giving me a playful shove. "Deal. Now, let's find you something that screams 'Saffron is here to slay.'"
With Bree's relentless enthusiasm, we spent the next hour transforming my look. By the time we were done, I barely recognized myself in the mirror. The red dress fit perfectly, my hair was styled in soft waves, and the bold lip Bree had chosen pulled the whole look together.
"Wow," I said, turning to Bree. "You really outdid yourself."
She grinned, clearly pleased with her handiwork. "I told you. Now, let's go and show them what they've been missing."
As we headed out to the party, a flutter of anticipation mixed with excitement. Bree was right—life was too short for boring clothes and unspoken feelings. And with her by my side, I felt ready for whatever—or whoever—came my way.
Well, I spoke too soon. Turns out, Orion happens to be Bree's brother's best friend, and here I am, thinking I'm ready for whatever comes my way.
As we arrived at the party, Bree nudged me with a mischievous grin. "Surprise!"
My jaw dropped. "You knew?"
Bree shrugged nonchalantly. "Maybe." She winked. "But hey, this just got more interesting, right?"
I groaned, suddenly feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. "Great. Now I've got the best friend's brother's best friend to worry about."
Bree laughed. "Relax, Saff. It's not like you're crashing a family reunion. Besides, I think it's kinda cute."
I shot her a mock glare. "Cute for you, maybe. For me, it's a potential minefield of awkward encounters." She just laughed at me before lightly patting my back. "On the brighter side, you now have an excuse to talk to him or something," she said with a wink.
I rolled my eyes, trying to hide the flutter of nerves that her words had stirred. "Great, now I'll just casually stroll up to him and say, 'Hey, I didn't realize you were Bree's brother's best friend. Fancy meeting you here.'"
Bree chuckled. "That's exactly what you should do. Confidence is key, Saff. Own it."
"No, thank you," I laughed, teasing Bree before leaving her there. I made my way over to Bree's parents to greet them, but before I could speak up, Bea, Bree's mom, rushed over to me and enveloped me in a warm hug.
"It's been so long since I last saw you, mija!" she exclaimed, squeezing me tightly.
I hugged her back just as tightly and kissed her cheek. "It's not that long, Bea," I kidded, recalling that we had seen each other at Christmas last year, only six months ago.
"Oh, dear, six months is long to me," she chuckled softly, her warm smile showing her genuine delight at seeing me.
I chuckled along with Bea, appreciating her warmth and sincerity. It was always comforting to be around Bree's family—they treated me like one of their own.
"Well, I'm glad to see you again," I replied, genuinely touched by her affection. "How have you been?" Bea's eyes sparkled with maternal warmth as she stepped back to look at me. "Oh, you know how it is, mija. Busy with work and trying to keep up with these two troublemakers," she said, nodding towards where Bree and her dad were deep in conversation.
"They keep me on my toes," Bea said with a smile, glancing over at Bree, who was animatedly gesturing as she spoke. I chuckled knowingly. "That they do," I commented, nodding in agreement.
"Enough about us. How are you, dear? How's school, and work, and everything?" Bea asked warmly, her eyes full of maternal concern.
I smiled gratefully at her genuine interest. "School's been busy, but good. I quit my job at the Cafe. And everything else is... well, everything else," I replied with a light chuckle, trying to summarize the whirlwind of life in a few sentences.
Bea nodded understandingly. "I'm glad to hear it, mija. You're doing so well," she said, her voice filled with pride. "Just remember to take care of yourself, too. It sounds like you've got a lot on your plate."
Her words touched me deeply. It was comforting to know that someone cared about my well-being beyond just the surface level. "Thank you, Bea. I appreciate that," I replied sincerely, feeling a warmth in my heart.
As we continued to chat, Bea's genuine concern and warmth reminded me of the importance of family—both biological and chosen. In Bree's family, I had found a second home, a place where I was always welcomed with open arms and genuine care. And as I stood there, surrounded by their love and support, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the bonds we had formed over the years.
"Here's my other unofficial daughter!" Felix, Bree's father, exclaimed with his arms wide open for a hug. I walked towards him and gladly embraced him. "Hi, Felix," I chuckled as he playfully messed up my hair.
"Look at you, all grown up," Felix said with a grin, ruffling my hair affectionately. "You've become quite the young lady."
I laughed, trying to smooth down my now tousled hair. "Thank you, Felix. It's good to see you."
He smiled warmly, his eyes reflecting paternal pride. "Likewise, my dear. Have you met my son, Finnian yet?"
Just as Felix mentioned his son, a man who stood tall as a tower approached us, hands nonchalantly in his pockets. He had a rugged charm about him, with his top buttons undone and a wild mane of hair that somehow managed to look effortlessly stylish.
"Here you are!" Bea exclaimed excitedly upon seeing him.
"What did I miss?" he asked casually, his deep voice resonating in the lively atmosphere of the party.
"Not much, but this is Saffron, Bree's best friend," Bea introduced me with a warm smile.
He looked at me curiously before extending his hand. "I know," he said with a mischievous smile. "Finnian," he introduced himself.
I shook his hand, feeling slightly taken aback by his confident demeanor. "Nice to officially meet you, Finnian," I replied, matching his smile with a hint of amusement.
Finnian's presence was as striking as his height, and his easygoing manner seemed to instantly blend with the party's energy. As we exchanged pleasantries, I couldn't help but notice a glint of something familiar in his eyes—a sense of mischief that echoed Bree's playful spirit.
"Well, Saffron," Finnian said with a playful grin, "Bree wouldn't shut up about you, so I feel like I also know you so well."
Bea plastered a cheeky smile and clasped her hands excitedly, nudging Felix with her elbow. "I told you they would look good together!"
I could tell Bea was trying to lower her voice, but it was still loud enough for me to hear, though Finnian seemed oblivious to her comment.
I could feel my face flush with heat as Finnian's words sunk in. Bree had obviously shared more than I anticipated, and I wasn't sure whether to be flattered or mortified.
"Oh, Bree," I muttered under my breath, trying to regain my composure as everyone chuckled around me. Finnian's grin widened, clearly enjoying the moment. "Don't worry, Saffron. Bree only has good things to say about you," he reassured me, his tone teasing yet kind.
I nodded, grateful for his easygoing demeanor. "Well, I hope they were mostly true," I replied with a playful smirk, attempting to regain my footing in the conversation.
Bea and Felix exchanged amused glances, clearly amused by the interaction. As the party continued around us, I found myself easing into the rhythm of Finnian's presence, his playful banter adding a new layer of excitement to the evening.
"Why don't I show you my favorite wine? Is that fine, parents?" Finnian asked with a wink which made me blush instantly.
Felix chuckled, waving us off. "Go ahead, Finnian. Just don't finish the bottle before we get a chance to taste it."
Bea laughed and nudged Felix. "Let them have their fun. You two enjoy yourselves!"
I followed Finnian, curious about where this would lead. "Lead the way, Finnian. I'm all for a good wine."
He grinned and guided me towards the kitchen, where an impressive wine rack stood. "You ready to be wowed?" he asked, selecting a bottle with a flourish.
I couldn't help but smile. "Show me what you've got."
I lied. I don't drink much and definitely not a wine connoisseur. I just thought it was wise to leave Felix and Bea before they started planning our wedding.
Finnian raised an eyebrow as he poured a glass. "You know, if you're not into wine, we don't have to do this. There's always soda or water."
I laughed, feeling a bit more at ease. "No, no, it's fine. Just don't expect me to identify any fancy notes or whatever."
He handed me a glass, his grin widening. "Noted. Let's just pretend we're sophisticated for a bit."
As we clinked glasses, I couldn't help but think that maybe this party wouldn't be so bad after all.
"So, tell me, Saffron. How did my sister manage to befriend someone so calm?" he asked, bringing the wine glass closer to his mouth. I couldn't help but follow his movements with my eyes.
I shrugged, trying to act nonchalant. "I guess opposites really do attract. Bree's the hurricane, and I'm the eye of the storm."
Finnian chuckled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Sounds about right. Bree does have a way of drawing in interesting people."
I took a sip of the wine, surprised by how much I actually liked it. "She definitely keeps life interesting. So, what's your story? How does the wild and mysterious Finnian fit into all of this?"
He leaned against the counter, looking thoughtful. "Well, I suppose I'm the rogue element, the one who shows up unexpectedly and shakes things up a bit."
I raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "A rogue element, huh? Sounds like there's a story there."
He smiled, a hint of mischief in his eyes. "Maybe. But you'll have to stick around to find out."
I raised my glass in mock seriousness. "To uncovering the mysteries of the mysterious Finnian."
He clinked his glass against mine, eyes still twinkling. "And to keeping life interesting."
As we both took another sip, I found myself relaxing more. "So, what's the real story behind you and Bree's dynamic? She talks about you like you're some sort of legend."
Finnian laughed, setting his glass down. "Legend, huh? That's a first. We just have a lot of history, I guess. Being the older brother, I've always felt like I had to look out for her, even if she's perfectly capable of taking care of herself."
I nodded, understanding the protective sibling bond even though I don't exactly know how that feels. "Sounds like a good brother to me."
"Well," he said, grinning, "I try. But enough about me. What about you, Saffron? What's your story?"
I hesitated, not sure where to begin. "Oh, nothing as exciting as being a rogue element. Just a regular student, trying to make it through university without too many mishaps."
Finnian raised an eyebrow. "I find that hard to believe. Everyone has a story. What about Rio?"
I felt my cheeks heat up. "Orion? Oh, it's complicated."
"Complicated how?" he pressed, genuinely curious.
I sighed, realizing I might as well share. "Well, he's Bree's ex, for one. And despite that, I keep running into him. It's like the universe is playing some sort of cosmic joke on me."
Finnian leaned in, clearly intrigued. "And how do you feel about that?"
I took another sip of wine, trying to gather my thoughts. "Honestly? Confused. He seems great, but I don't want to mess things up with Bree. She's my best friend."
He nodded thoughtfully. "I get that. Loyalty is important. But sometimes, the universe pushes us in certain directions for a reason."
"Maybe," I admitted, glancing around the room. "But I'm not sure I'm ready to figure out what that reason is."
Finnian smiled warmly. "Take your time. Life has a way of sorting itself out, one way or another."
As I pondered his words, Bree stumbled into the kitchen, looking slightly more composed but still tipsy. "There you are! I've been looking everywhere for you two."
Finnian and I exchanged amused glances. "Just having a deep, philosophical conversation," I said, standing up.
"Sounds intense," Bree said, laughing. "Come on, the party's in full swing, and you're missing it!"
Finnian winked at me. "Guess the rogue element needs to get back to shaking things up."
I followed them back to the party, feeling a strange sense of anticipation. Maybe Finnian was right. Maybe the universe did have a plan, and I just needed to go along for the ride.
"So, have you spoken to Orion yet?" Bree asked as she find herself leaning into me for support.
"No, and not planning to," I casually replied, taking a sip of my soda.
"Why not?" Bree asked, clearly having had a bit too much to drink. I gently reached for the wine glass in her hand and carefully placed it on the nearest table.
"Because I don't want to," I replied firmly, helping her to sit down.
Bree pouted slightly, her words slightly slurred. "But he's right over there. You should at least say hi."
I sighed, knowing Bree meant well but also feeling a twinge of frustration. "Bree, just because you think it's a good idea doesn't mean I have to," I said, trying to keep my voice calm.
Bree looked at me with a mix of concern and mischief. "Come on, Saff. You're always so cautious. Sometimes you just have to let loose and take a chance."
I smiled softly at her words, appreciating her encouragement despite my reservations. "Maybe," I conceded, "but tonight, I'm just going to enjoy the party."
Bree nodded understandingly, her expression softening. "Okay, fair enough," she said, leaning back in her chair. "But if you change your mind..."
"You'll be the first to know," I promised, grateful for her understanding.
As the music and chatter of the party surrounded us, I couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. Orion's presence loomed in the background, a reminder of the unexpected twists and turns that life often took. But for now, I was content to simply be in the moment, surrounded by friends who cared and a future that held endless possibilities.
"There you are..." a familiar voice said. I turned to see Orion towering over us. He took a seat beside me and handed me a glass of champagne. "So, Bree's knocked down," he said matter-of-factly.
I chuckled softly, taking the glass from him. "Looks like it," I replied, glancing over at Bree, who was now rocking back and forth, trying to fight sleep.
Orion leaned back in his chair, looking relaxed despite the lively atmosphere around us. "She's always the life of the party," he remarked, his gaze thoughtful.
"Yeah, that's Bree for you," I agreed.
There was a comfortable silence between us for a moment, the music and laughter of the party filling the air. I found myself studying Orion discreetly, noticing the easy confidence in his demeanor and the way he seemed at ease in any situation.
"So," Orion began, breaking the silence, "how's your night going, Saffron?"
I smiled, grateful for his attempt to engage me in conversation. "It's good," I replied honestly. "Busy, but good. How about you?"
Orion shrugged casually. "Can't complain. It's nice to unwind a bit."
I just nodded and let the silence take over. "Well, it's nice to see you outside the campus, Saffron."
I pursed my lips and gave him a tight-lipped smile. "You too."
He stood up, and just before leaving, he paused, his expression thoughtful.
"Take care of Brianna for me."
With that cryptic statement hanging in the air, he turned and walked away, leaving me to ponder its meaning long after he disappeared into the crowd.