Montana and the 12 Horrible Kisses

Best friends, Montana and Cammie, are now seniors in high school and they decide to do something spontaneous to steer up the year.

They both choose one bet for each other to accomplish.

Throughout Montana’s bet, she faces an abundance of challenges.

With a couple of guys left to kiss, she’s stuck with a burdensome decision.

Prologue

“Come on Cammie, you have to do the bet. All you gotta do is go on a date with the next 3 guys to walk through those doors”, I demanded.

We were two months in our senior year at Little Creek High. Cammie and I decided to start it off with two crazy bets. Cammie has been my best friend since 5th grade. We've done almost everything together, down to giving each other baths! When we first met, I knew we would always be friends. Since then, our friendship has grown.

“Montana, this is so unfair, why can't I just pick who I want to go out with?” She looked at me then pouted, poking her bottom lip out. She knew that was my weakness. I always caved into that puppy dog look.

“That’s not going to work on me this time, so stop it. Plus it’s a bet, your not suppose to like it”, I smile and nudged her. We watched the doors at Perez’s Pizzeria for Cammie’s lucky three dates.

Chapter 1 (4 months later)

It’s February, and California couldn't be hotter. I wait for Cammie to come over to my house so we can walk to school together. I throw on a long-sleeved, loose knit pink sweater, and a short black circle skirt, with a pair of black platform pumps. I let my long brunette hair down and apply some mascara and lip gloss to finish my look.

Dad calls me from downstairs, “ Montana, Cammie is here, hurry up or you'll be late to school.” My dad was a single parent trying to raise his only child. Mom passed away when I was twelve, she had a very defective heart. My father stood by me as I grieved for her. Although I knew he was hurting, he always stayed strong for me. He hasn't dated anyone or even flirted since then.

I run downstairs to greet Cammie. She was wearing a long sleeve crop top, that had “Los Angeles”, writing across it and a printed pattern skirt.

“You look cute Cam, who are you trying to impress?”. She doesn't answer, she just stands there with a smirk. Something was up and I knew eventually she would tell me. I kiss my father on the cheek and head out for school.

“So are you going to tell me what’s on your mind, you're never this quiet”, I say as we walk to the bus stop. Cammie bites her lip then blurts out, “Fine, I was going to tell you when we got to school, but you know I can’t hold water.” Her eyes vast and she starts to smile ear to ear.

“I've finally figured out what your bet is going to be. After the three horrible dates I had to endure, your going to suffer worse”. She giggles excitedly.

“Come on Cam, the first two dates wasn't that bad. The one to Red Lobster with John, he was a total hottie.” She stops me from walking and angrily stares at me.

“Yea, he was hot but his breath was hotter, it smelled like dirty hotdog water, like he didn't brush his teeth in months.”

“What about Walter, he was 22 in the police academy.” We get on the bus and head to the back.

“Montana, I didn't tell you this because it was totally embarrassing but he had like three dogs, who he called his sons. He'd even make them sit at the table with him for dinner. Such a loser.”

We both start to laugh, it was kind of weird. I didn't even mention her last date. It was with a middle schooler.

“So what’s my bet Cam.” I was eager to know. Hopefully it wasn't something I had to eat. I hate trying foods that was smashed together on a plate or meals with names I couldn't pronounce.

“Your bet is to kiss every guy who flirts with you, and you must fill this journal with the name of the guy, how long the kiss lasted, where it happened and a rate 1–10 on how good it was. And any other side notes you want to add.”

She handed me a little green notebook.

I was appalled at her decision, I mean really?? Kiss total strangers, that’s just so unhealthy but kind of witty. What if it was a guy who was too needy. I avoided overly emotional guys, who just doubts himself and always needs constant reassurance about his relationships, work and friendships. Also dudes who were arrogant. Huge ego maniacs were Cam’s ideal guy.

“Cam, why does it have to be every guy. I'll be kissing till I’m hundred.” She laughs.

“Fine, the first 13 guys that flirt with you. This is going to be so exciting.”

“Yea, for you”, I mumbled.

9:00am

We get to home room for English. Our teacher, Ms.Baker cruised around the class and handed out books she assigned us to read for our final assignment before spring break. She also passed around a ten sheet packet, with questions we had to answer about what we read.

Cammie turned to me. “Montana, our bet starts now by the way”, she whispered.

Ms.Baker cleared her throat and began talking. “Okay, so I just handed out your final assignment which is due before spring break. That’s three weeks from today so you have a lot of time. I’ll pair you guys up so you can begin reading.”

Me and Cammie sit close to each other so she'd pair us. But unfortunately since we always got paired together, Ms. Baker decided to split us up. Cammie was paired up with Lola Sparks, the head captain of the cheerleading squad. As luck would have it, I ended up with Joey Randall, who was always flirting with me every chance he’d get. He was so annoying and goofy. When we'd have a substitute teacher, he would crumble up paper and throw it at other students, along with his best friend Mark Daniels.

“Hey there good-looking”, Joey said as he moved his chair next to mine. He sat down and put his arms around my shoulders. Cammie looked at me and winked. I gave her my, ‘you're dead’ look.

“Joey we're supposed to be reading and I'd really like to be done with the first chapter before the period ends.” I removed his arm from around my neck and opened the book to the first chapter.

“You're a feisty one I can tell, how about we take a walk around Malibu tonight.” I looked at him like he was crazy. Never in a million years would I go out with Joey. He was such a goofball, but I had to think about my bet with Cammie. Ugh, this is the worst day of my life.

“You know what the hell, I would love to.” His jaw dropped open. “Really Montana? After all the times you shot me down, I finally get a date.”

“Yes, now shut up before I change my mind and let’s read this book.”

Chapter 2

It’s Saturday, maybe two in the afternoon. I didn't bother to check the time, I was still in bed trying to recover from last night at Leo Amernelli’s house party. Sunglasses & Advil was so needed for today.

I manage to drag my intoxicated 102 lbs body into my bathroom. I peed, took a quick shower, brushed my teeth, rinsed with mouth wash and headed towards my closet. Rambling through my clothes for about 15 mins, I put on a pair of black shorts, my white Beatles t-shirt and black low top boots. I powdered my cheeks and under my eyelids with a little bit of foundation and went downstairs.

Dad was sitting on the couch reading the sports section in today’s newspaper. I went into the kitchen, poured me some orange juice and flopped on the couch next to him.

“Montana, what’s wrong with you?” My dad asked as he placed the newspaper on the coffee table. My dad had this weird way of knowing when something was wrong with a person. They'd just walk in a room, he'll look at their face and know something was up within 3 seconds.

“Nothing is wrong dad, I just have a major headache.”

He glared at me and squinted his eyes. He opened his mouth, but before he can speak I interrupted. “Please don't try to read me, I'm fine!”

He raised his bushy eyebrows at me. “You've been drinking, and now you're hung over. Do you need me to get you something?”.

He knows I drank, but he also knew I would only have two cups, then follow it down with water for the rest of the night. That’s what we agreed on. The only time I would get drunk, if I was thinking about mom, and that only happened twice, this being the third time.

“No thanks, I'm fine. I'm about to go meet up with Cammie and get some lunch.” I gulped down my orange juice and checked my phone. I had a few texts.

Cammie: Montana wake up !! I know you're hung over that doesn't mean sleep your life away .

Me: sorry, just seeing your text meet you at Maraca‘s Smoothie bar at 3.

Cammie: fine!!!!!

Then there’s a text from Joey.

Joey: you stood me up, that’s not cool, I heard you went to a party last night, could have invited me. Anyways, got any plans for today?

Me: tonight for sure, I promise!

Joey: GREAT! can’t wait ;-)

I got up off the couch and carried myself towards the door. “I'll see you tonight daddy”. “Ok sweetie”, he replied.

3:26pm

I went up the steps at Maraca’s. Cammie was sitting at booth 3.

“Why do we both look terrible today”, Cammie asked as she waved the waitress over. She ordered a mango swirl smoothie and an egg on wheat bread. I asked for the same.

I gazed down at my outfit and back at Cammie.

“So you didn’t hang with Joey yesterday, and I know you didn't kiss him. I hope you're not chickening out, because that would be messed up. “

“Relax, we're hanging out tonight. You'll get your kiss.” The waitress comes back with our food and smoothies. Cammie takes a bite of her sandwich and continues speaking with her mouth full.

“You have to sprinkle promise me you won't end the bet until it’s completed”, Cammie holds out her pinky for me to shake.

A sprinkle promise was something we came up with in 6th grade, while we were eating vanilla ice cream with sprinkles on top. That was the day I found out that Cammie’s mom told her she was moving to New Jersey. I made her promise that she wouldn't leave me.

“Fine, I sprinkle promise you”, I said as we shook pinkies. We quaffed down what was left of our egg sandwich and smoothies and left the bar.

“So what’s on the agenda for today Montana?” Cammie said as she played with her golden blond hair.

“I don't know, I rescheduled my date with Joey, I guess we can hang at your house till then.”

7:30pm

I got a text from Joey telling me to meet him at Malibu’s Pier. I didn't even change my clothes, I really could careless about this date.

Joey was standing there with a bundle of roses. He was wearing a dark blue Polo shirt, a pair of khaki pants and running sneakers. His hair was neatly combed back. He looked kind of hot.

“Montana, these are for you.” He handed me the roses. They smelled beautifully.

“So what do you have planned for tonight?”, I eagerly asked.

“I was thinking we can take a walk on the pier, look at the ocean.” I just nodded.

We hanged over the edge of the pier and watched the bow of ships slice through the waves. The waves broke and spread their waters swiftly over the shore. One after another they massed themselves and fell. Birds fluttered over the cerulean sea. It was an amazing view.

“You know I've had the longest crush on you Montana.” Joey blushingly put his head down.

“Really? I mean you did constantly flirt with me, but I'd always thought you were joking. You can be such a clown sometimes.” He looked blankly at me.

“Is that what you think of me? Just a clown”, I could tell he was becoming agitated.

“Of course, you're always throwing things around the classroom, making jokes that aren't at all amusing.”

“I only do those things to get your attention. My intentions are always commendable.” My phone vibrates and I look away from Joey.

Cammie: how’s your date going? :-)))

Me: he actually seems good-hearted

Cammie: that’s excellent , I threw a Mac lipgloss into your purse, just incase. You can thank me later!

Joey grabbed my phone and ran off the Pier towards an alley. I wasn't bit annoyed, it was kind of funny. I ran after him and jumped on his back. He fell to the floor, taking me with him. The roses were squashed in between our chest.

“Damn Montana, your aggressive”, he coos and gives a cheeky grin. He gets up and pulls me to my feet. We end up looking into each other’s eyes. I never notice how beautifully they were. Emerald green , and they sparkled perfectly under the moon. Joey put his arms around my waist and slowly leaned into me for a kiss.

His kisses were beastly. His teeth scraped onto mine. He darted his tongue in and out of my mouth. I pushed away and fabricated a fake smile.

“Uhh… Joey, I have to get going, I forgot my father wanted me home early.” I sped off to the bus stop, without ever turning back around.

“I guess I’ll text you tomorrow then”, he yelled out.

—————————————————————-
Name: Joey Randall

Lasted: 8 seconds

Location: Malibu’s Pier

Rate: 1

Notes: Code name (The Reptile) he must learn how to use his tongue more sensually.

Chapter 3

8:30am

“Stop over exaggerating Montana, I'm sure it wasn't that bad”, Cammie says as she giggles.

“Yea laugh all you want to, and yes it was horrible.” I slouch into Cammie’s bean bag. It’s been 2 weeks since I last kissed Joey, and I received a bunch of texts from him, but never replied back. I’ve tried to avoid him in home room. When he'd ask why I have haven't talked to him, I'll lie and tell him my phone broke.

“Okay, how do I look?”. Cammie twirls around, for me to view her outfit. She had on a blue patterned dress with ruffles at the bottom and a pair of Doc Martins. “You look adorable, now let’s go before we miss the bus.”

1:20pm

The bell rang for 7th period. I had gym. Ms.Rhodes made us run around the track 5 times to warm up. As we ran, I can see some of the girls stopping to catch their breaths after 1 lap. Good thing I was in shape. My dad and I worked out every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday at 4pm. Once in a while Cammie would come along just to flirt with guys at the gym.

After running 4 laps, I stopped and took a drink of water. Carter Raines, headed towards my direction. He was a tall, slim rocker boy, who had perfectly white teeth. His shaggy hair covered his forehead and his sad grey eyes watched me.

“Montana can you pass me one too”. Reaching his large hands out, I passed him a bottle.

“Thanks. I saw you run the four laps without stopping. That’s pretty good. You should join the track team.”

“No, I’m not into that at all. I just rather listen to a Fall Out Boy album and read a fashion magazine.” He gives me a wanton look, then takes a gulp of his water.

Class ends, and I go into the locker room to change. When I come out, Carter is there, standing waiting for me.

“Is there something wrong Carter?.”

“I have Fall Out Boy’s New album, wanna come to my house and check it out.” Inside my head I’m screaming. I've begged my dad a hundred times to get me that album. But I try to stay calm around Carter. He’s kind of a cool, laid back guy, popular and good looking.

“That sounds great. I just have to go home first.”

“Cool, I’ll pick you up at 4.” He flipped his bangs, something like Justin Bieber, then walks away.

3:45pm

I text Cammie my plans, and told my dad I'll be home for dinner. Carter is early picking me up. He sweetly opens my door to his BMW, and I slide in. My phone vibrates.

Cammie: good luck on your second kiss

Me: he hasn't even flirted with me yet and we're just going to his house to hang and listen to music

Cammie: well , you're crazy if you don’t kiss him, he’s hot !!

15 minutes pass and Carter pulls up in front of his house. It’s a small little cabin house with multiple flowers planted in the front yard.

“Wow, your mom must be a gardener?”

He pulls the key out the ignition.

“Yea she is. That’s how she met my father. He’s a landscaper. Cater smiles and gets out the car. He jogs to my side and opens it.

When we go into his room, there are a bunch of records stacked on a shelf and several CD’s laid out on his bed.

“Here it is”, he holds up the new Fall Out Boy album.

“Sweet, I've been eager to get this CD.” Carter pops it into his computer.

“What’s your favorite song?”, he asked.

“It’s between America’s Suitehearts & Just One Yesterday”, I say as I bop my head to the music.

Carter starts to fidget with something in his draw. He pulls out a joint and lights it. He takes two pulls. “You smoke Montana?”

I smoked before, but it’s been a while, since like the beginning of junior year. I take the joint out his hand, take a few pulls, then hand it back. I immediately felt a huge rush off my shoulders. I forgot how this stuff relieves stress.

An hour passes, and Carter and I have had two joints and a couple of beers.

“Those girls got nothing on you Montana, I mean, they way they were out of breath, looked like they were about to pass out”, we both laugh out loud. I mean it wasn't that funny, but we were intoxicated.

He takes a pull of the joint, “Come here Montana, I want to show you something”. He puts his grey beanie hat on me. “You should start wearing these, it looks hot on you. Why don't you start hanging with me more, we could have a lot of fun together.”

OMG, was he flirting with me, or just being friendly? If he was flirting, It had to because we were high as a kite. I get to kiss Carter Raines. I hope he was a good kisser.

“That would be fun, we can probably listen to more bands”, I say nervously. He smiles. His eyes are low, and his pink lips are dry, so he licks them. Carter walks close to me, “Open your mouth”. I do as he says. He then takes a last hit on the joint and puts it out. He blows the smoke into my mouth, and I feel his lips touch mine.

It was a slow, perfect, fireworks-in-my-mouth kind of kiss. No open mouths, no scraping of the teeth , no tongues; just a little teeny kiss.

Oh shit. I'm in love with him.

Wait!! No. Not in love, just living in the moment.

The kiss stopped, but I’m stupidly still standing here with my eyes closed, waiting for him to kiss me again.

“Shit, Montana, that was rad”, Carter says then taps my lips again. I open my eyes and his grey ones are locked with mine.

———————————————————————

Name: Carter Raines

Lasted: 5 seconds

Location: Carter’s Room

Rate: 9

Notes: Kissing God . Lost for words.

Chapter 4

11:45am

“Ehhhhhhhh”, Cammie squealed out. We were in the lunchroom and I just told her about my kiss with Carter yesterday. “I knew you would kiss him, I mean, you would of been stupid not to.” I gulped down my iced tea while I tried to listen to Cammie ramble on. My kiss with Carter was amazing, but I felt something when we kissed, that I never felt before with anyone. What did this mean? I had to find out.

“Hey Cam, I’m skipping Chemistry, I have to go to the library and do some research.”

“Research for what?”, she looked at me confused. I usually tell Cammie everything, but I didn't want to announce my feelings I thought I had with Carter. She'll just encourage me to ask him out.

“History project for second period, Ms. Walker can be a pain for sources you know.” I glanced at her hoping she would buy my story.

“Ok, I'll just tell Mr.Donocuff you're in the nurse, btw I got so many compliments on my outfit, even Darren Peters said I looked hot.” She flipped her hair and looked down at herself. Cammie was wearing a short, wide-cut black top with a metal chain at the neckline and a short flared black skirt, with black over the knee socks and ankle boots. I had on a plain white buttoned up long-sleeved shirt tucked in a burgundy lace short skirt and a pair of pumps.

We were pretty much fashionista’s. We were always up to date with the latest trends. Me being the only child, I pretty much got whatever I wanted.

We finished our lunch and parted ways when the bell ranged.

I sit down to one of the computers in the library.

I google, ‘magical kiss’, and a whole bunch of wizard magic and what not pops up, so I decided to dig deeper. ‘When you kiss and feel sparks’. It goes into details about sexual attraction and hormones, which makes pretty much a lot of sense. I did feel attracted to Carter’s looks, but I knew zilch about him. It wasn't nothing personal, just a regular teenage hormones out of control.

A huge relief lifted off my shoulders. I grabbed my bag and headed out the library, towards the girl’s bathroom. I can see my Chemistry teacher standing down the hall next to my destination. He was talking to a student. I tried to turn back around so he wouldn't spot me, but it was to late.

“Ms.Moore”, he called out. I slowly did a 360 turn and walked over to him. “Why aren't you in my class?”, Mr.Donocuff said as he folded his arms. I was trying to think of an excuse, but I had nothing. I was always good at thinking on my feet, but today wasn't my day.

“I . . I was.”, then Carter comes up behind me. “Montana this isn't the way to the nurse, I've told you a million times to go up the stairs, towards the guidance counselor's room.” I looked up at Carter who was looking at me, then turns to Mr.Donocuff, who was looking at him.

“You were escorting her to the nurse Mr.Raines?”

“Yes sir, she was complaining about stomach pains, I was happy to help.” Carter turned to me and smiled. His left dimple flashed, while parts of his white teeth almost blinded me.

“Ok, well hope you feel better Montana and bring me a note at the end of the day, so I can log it for your attendance” Mr.Donocuff continued his conversation with the other student, me and Carter fled off.

“Thanks for helping me out there, you saved my life.”

“No, problem it’s the least I can do, anyways whats the real reason you weren't in his class?”. Carter asked as he stuck a piece of gum in his mouth.

“Uhh, I went to the library to research something, then I was going to the bathroom before he stopped me.”

We went into the nurses office and told the nurse I was having “stomach pains”. She asked me a bunch of questions, some of which were to uncomfortable for Carter to hear, so he waited in the waiting area. After I was done and got the note we, went onto the football field until the period was over.

2:10pm

Cammie and I are already seated at a table for art class. Carter walks in, throws out his gum from earlier and breezes towards our table. He flashes me a grin so sexy it ought to be trademarked. He puts his face close to mine, like he’s going to kiss me. But instead of a kiss on my lips he pecks my cheek.

“Gee guys, what did I miss ?”, Cammie smiles bitingly. Carter sits down and takes his hat off. He shakes his hair from it being flattened.

“Your totally blushing Montana”, Cammie says softly.

“No I'm not”.

She gently pushes my hair behind my ear and studies my cheek. “Your cheeks are red, you like him? Don't lie to me.” I look at her anxiously. “Ok look, I didn't tell you this but, when me and Carter kissed, I felt something, like sparks between us. I researched it earlier, but it’s nothing but hormones.” She shakes her head, and turns to face the front of the room.

“If you have feelings for somebody Montana, don't try to cover it with an excuse, go after what you want or you'll just regret it. I’m your best friend, I'm not going to push you to do anything you don't want to do, just don't make any stupid decisions.”

Wow! This is the most good advice Cammie had ever given to me. Maybe I was wrong to doubt her opinion.

“Just don’t forget our bet, if you guys start dating”, she chuckles.

Forty minutes passes, and we just got finished making string art, which requires you to take a string and tie it to a pencil. Then mix a little water with any color of paint and dip the string in, then drag it across the paper.

“My shit looks to rad, like a spider dog, right Cam?”, a guy sitting behind us ask Cammie. She turns around and laughs. “Shaquan, where the hell do you see a spider or even a dog? It looks like your face.”

He looks at the paper, and back at Cam, “And what does my face look like”, he says giving Cammie a flirtatious smile.

She gets up, “A whole lot of crap”, then the bell rings.

Carter runs up to us. “Hey girlies, Darren is having a party tonight at his house and you're invited.” Cammie’s eyes widen. “Really? he invited us?”

“Yup, so are y'all coming”. Carter looks at me specifically.

“Yes! will be there”. Cammie says pulling me away.

4:45pm

I’m sitting on my bed finishing the last bit of homework I had. My dad comes and knocks on my door. “Hey kiddo, how was school”, he sits on the edge of my bed.

“It was cool, hey dad, can I go to this party tonight, a bunch of students from school are going.” He usually lets me do whatever I want, I just have to let him know before hand.

“You do know it’s a school night, right Montana?”

“Yea, i'll be home at one, I promise”, I smile really big.

He kisses my forehead, gets up and walks toward my door. “Ok, sweetie, but friday night don’t make any plans we're going out”. Ugh“ going out “ only meant one thing. Dinner at a restaurant or burger place and games we can play together like we used to do when I was younger. I wanted to tell him I was getting too old for it, I’m 17 for goodness sake. He should start treating me like an adult.

I put my books up and go towards the bathroom to start getting ready for Darren’s house party.

Chapter 5 (Part One)

8:15pm

I look in the mirror at the finishing touches of my outfit. I’m wearing a really cute short fitted skirt with a wrapped over front section, sequin-embroidered mesh shirt and a pair of burgundy high top platform boots. I let my hair down from a bun and spray my favorite Vanilla scented perfume on, from head to toe.

“Montana! Cammie is at the door”, my father yells. “I’ll be right down.” I grab my phone and run downstairs.

“Montana, I love your skirt , and your ass looks great.” She turns to my father, “Sorry for cussing Mr.Moore it’s a habit.” My father shakes his head and looks down at my outfit.

“Do you really have to show that much skin? I know where in California but your 17. Do all the girls around here dress this way?” He puts his hand on his forehead.

I give him a big bear hug. “I love you daddy, but I’m about to be 18 soon. I’m not your little girl anymore.” He lifts my chin with his finger, “Idc if your 50, you’ll always be my little girl”.

“Ok, enough with the gooey daddy’s little girl hug, let’s go party”, Cammie say’s as she separated us. “Cam, your too much for me”, my dad says nudging her. “Have fun girls, Montana be home by curfew.”

We take the bus to Darren’s Mansion. It’s not one of those big luxury mansions but it’s big enough. Both his parents were big time lawyers in California.

“Omg, this place is amazing! Come on let’s go”, Cammie drags me inside. I survey the living/dining room littered with a whole bunch of popular kids from school, some even college looking guys and girls. The captain of the cheerleading squad, Lola Sparks, drunk and high, was making out with Joey. Which was weird because Lola hated him. But was great for me, I never have to taste his lips again.

Tonight there was about a hundred people here. “Montana! Cammie! Nice of you ladies to come”, we turn around and see Darren standing there with his Burberry shirt unbutton at the top, Alexander Wang dark blue washed Jeans and a pair of Burberry Loafers. Cammie starts to blush. “Wow, you look hot Darren.”

He stares at Cammie and runs his hand through his black silky hair. “Thanks Cam, come on let’s get some drinks”. They leave me standing by the door. I make my way out to the back porch. A guy runs up towards me.

“You look hot Tana” , he says as he plants a kiss on my lips and runs away. He totally caught me off gaurd. He left a stink drunk smell on my lips. I wipe my mouth and apply more lipgloss. I laugh it off and head towards the mini bar.

I look around the porch. There’s kids dancing by the hot tub and even couples making out in it. I didn’t see Carter anywhere.

“Who you looking for?”, a deep voice says from behind me. I turn around and there stands a 6'5ft, little muscle toned guy. He had a soft cut beard and mustache and spiky wavy hair. He was smoking a cigarette, but then put it out.

“Who are you? I haven’t seen you around in school”, I asked suspiciously.

“That’s because I’m not in high school. I go to CU.”

That probably made the most sense. “You still haven’t answered my question, who are you looking for?”, the mysterious guy scolds at me while his bushy eyebrows lift up.

“I don’t think it’s any of your business, so just go on your way.” I pour me a shot of tequila at the mini bar and down it, then another.

“Your a big girl ain’t cha? Can I at least know your name?”, he pours himself a shot.

“Montana”

“Nice to meet you Montana, I’m Briggs.” He smiles big.

9:20pm

Briggs and I talked for about an hour. Sharing each other’s past, talking about our likes and dislikes. We had alot in common. He told me he visted New York for a week and attended a museum show. I loved going to museums. My mom always took me when I was younger. I miss her so much. I sometimes have dreams of her making my dad and I a big breakfast. She would cut the pancakes into little animals and dress them with smiles using whipped cream.

“We should go upstairs, into one of the bedrooms. It’s more reserved”, Briggs suggested.

I agree and follow him into the guest room of the house. I couldn’t wait for Carter much longer.

“I’ll be right back, ganna go get us a drink, any request?”, Briggs ask while he heads out the door.

“Surprise me”, I smile. He leaves me alone. I look around the room, it was remarkable. There was a French-door entry; a tray ceiling; a spacious retreat; and a splendid master bath with a sunken tub, an oversized shower with a seat, two vanities, a private toilet area, and an enormous walk-in closet. This was my dream room. Me and Cammie would always map out how we would want our houses to be. Darren was a lucky guy.

I feel my phone vibrate. Its Carter.

Carter: I’m omw to the party, I was getting my ass chewed by my pops, can’t wait to see you :-)

Me: Hurry !

Briggs walked back into the room with two cups in his hand. He handed me my cup and sat on the bed. I took a sip. It was a diet coke laced with some rum. It was pretty good.

“What do you have?”, I asked. He takes a big gulp and scrunches his face. “Its white hennessy, and man this stuff is strong.” I gulp down my drink and head over to the closet.

“I’ve dreamt for this closet, I have so many clothes I pratically begged my father to furnish mines.”

“So why hasn’t he?”, Briggs asked while he walks behind me. “He say’s money is tight, and plus he’s been putting money up for my college fund.”

I start to feel woozy, and the room starts spinning. “I think I need to sit down, I don’t feel well.”

“Sure, come on”, he grabs my hand and walks me over to the bed.

“I have a surprise for you Montana”, Briggs said with a smile as he pushed my hair behind my ear.

“A surprise? For what?”

“Well, if I told you, it wouldn’t be a surprise now, would it?” He gets up and locks the door to the bedroom. He walks over towards me and lifts me up from the bed and slipped his arms around my waist.

“What are you doing Briggs, and I can’t even stand, why do I feel so light headed?” He ignored my question and stared at me sneeringly. He held me tightly for a few seconds before laying me down and climbing on top of me.

“What are you doing?”

“I’ve been watching you since you got here Montana, you are so beautiful you know that. When we talked I knew you weren’t an easy one. So I decided to speed things up a bit.”

He paused for a moment, glancing over my face before his mouth cescended toward mine. I tried to shove him away. “Stop Briggs, your crazy, get off me, did you put something in my drink?.”

His expression turned to something hard and determined, and suddenly I was scared. My vision suddenly tipped and swam, and I had to blink several times to see him clearly. Agitation welled up inside me, and my mouth went dry. My strength seeped farther from me. Tears leaked from my eyes as I tried to keep focused. He brushed a kiss near my ear, making his way down my neck.

“I’ll be genlte”, he crooned. “I promise It’ll be so good.”

“Get off of me!” I struggled trying to get him off, with the little burst of energy I had left, I manage to knee him hard in his stomach. He groaned in agony and rolled off me to his side. I climbed to my feet leaning against the wall for support. I stumbled toward the door before Briggs tackled me again, hitting my head on the floor. It was over. I’d lost. I was too drugged to attempt another escape now.

“Please don’t, Briggs”. I was crying uncontrollably, desperate to reach him somehow. He ignored me and smiled. “I love when you beg, its attractive.” His mouth descended to mine, and I turn my head sideways trying to avoid him. I was pinned beneath his body. His hand slid down my thigh, bunching my skirt as he pulled it up between us.

“Stop!” I begged, tasting my own tears as I tried to push him away again. “Stop!” He squeezed my leg before sitting up to undo the buckle on his belt. I tried to use this chance as an advantage to get away.

“Oh no you dont!” He pinned me back down under him. I tried screaming, but because of the loud music nobody heard my faints for help. All I can think about was my mom, her smile that grew on her face when she looked at me. Her dark brown hair that smelled like cinnamon in the morning.

“Please don’t do this”, I repeated over and over trying to block out the sensation as his hand slid up my leg to my underwear.