Night was falling as Max approached Miguel's house. He had just picked up Devon, who was now accompanying him.
"Are you sure your dad wasn't upset?" Max asked for the third time after having a conversation with Devon's father.
Devon smirked playfully and said, "The funniest part is, he thinks you're my boyfriend. He didn't buy the story that you're just my friend and that we're heading to a night party."
This didn't particularly bother Max, but he didn't want to leave a bad impression on his friend's dad.
Not like this, and certainly not with so little time to prepare.
"Alright, wait here while I go get Miguel." Max felt like a guy juggling too many girlfriends. The worst part was that he couldn't give Miguel the party's location because there was a chance he wouldn't be let in.
Tonight, he was driving a customized yellow Ford, built entirely for racing. It wasn't exactly a car for everyday use, but at a gathering of rich kids, Max knew he had to make an impression.
"Miguel, it's me." Max knocked on the door of Miguel's house, and within seconds, Carmen answered with a welcoming smile.
"He's in the bathroom; he'll be out in a few minutes," Carmen said, happy to see her son making good friends.
Miguel's grandmother chimed in, "He's so nervous."
"He's never been invited to a night party before. I think it'll do him good—maybe even help him find a girlfriend," Carmen whispered, ensuring Miguel wouldn't overhear.
Max chuckled nervously and said, "I don't think this is the best place to look for a girlfriend, but the experience will be worth it."
"Just don't forget to use protection."
"Mom, we're leaving!" Miguel suddenly emerged from his room, cutting Carmen off before she could embarrass him further.
Max smiled slightly and said, "Ma'am, I'm not sure how long the party will last, but I promise your son will be with me the entire time."
"I'm trusting you with him."
"I'm not a kid," Miguel protested as he said goodbye to his mom.
Once outside, Miguel was stunned by the car. Seeing his reaction, Max asked, "Wanna drive?"
"Me?" Miguel asked, as though he hadn't heard correctly.
Max nodded and said, "Yeah, you can."
"No, I don't know how to drive."
"Well, you'll need to learn."
Miguel got into the car, greeted Devon, and together they set off for Ryan's party—a night that promised to be more than just surprising.