Through My Window

Chapter Five - The Best Friend

The walk back isn't as uncomfortable as I expected, but I'm nervous and my hands are shaking. Part of me still can't believe I'm walking next to Ares. I stay a step behind him so I don't have to be opposite that cute face of his. However, my curious eyes travel down his defined arms and legs. Playing soccer suits him. He has an athletic body that makes him look strong. I continue to gawk at him until he catches me, and I look away.

Ares glances over his shoulder at me with a mischievous, knowing grin that takes my breath away. Why does he have to be so fucking attractive?

Grumbling, I focus on the street to one side of us. Ares plays on his phone the rest of the way. As we reach my front door, the atmosphere gets a little awkward. He stops next to me and runs his hand through his hair. "You've arrived at your cave, Witch."

"Stop calling me that."

"Comb your hair more often, and I will."

Low blow.

I immediately run my fingers through my tangled hair, trying to unknot it. "It's the weather's fault."

Ares just smiles. "Whatever you say." He pauses. "Witch."

"Very funny."

Ares checks his phone, as if checking the time. "Get in before your mom comes out and drags you in."

"My mom wouldn't do that, she knows what kind of daughter she raised," I say arrogantly. "She trusts me."

And as if hearing me, my mother's voice calls from inside the house. "Raquel? Is that you?"

"Shit!" I panic. "Oh . . . that was fun, good night, bye." I turn around to walk to the door.

"Didn't you just say that your mother knows who she raised?"

"Raquel?" my mother calls again.

I turn to him again.

"Shhhh!" I gesture with both hands for him to leave. "Go away! Shoo!"

Ares laughs showing those perfect teeth. He has a beautiful smile, I could stare at him all night, but my mother is about to come out and make a fuss. Ares gives me the "Okay" sign with his fingers.

"All right, I'm off, Stalker Witch."

"Wow, a special nickname now?" Sarcasm drips from my tone.

He shrugs. "I'm very creative, I know."

"So am I, Greek God." As soon as my so-called nickname for him leaves my lips, I regret it. Greek God? Are you serious, Raquel?

"I like that nickname."

Of course, you like it, arrogant—

"Raquel!" My mom's voice is louder now.

I turn my back to him again and this time he says nothing. I hear his footsteps fading further into the distance as I open my front door. I walk in and put my back against the door as a stupid grin comes over my face. I had a good time with Ares. I still can't believe it.

"Raquel Margarita Mendoza Álvarez!"

You know you're in trouble when your mom uses your full name.

"Hi, my beautiful mom," I say with the cutest look I can conjure up.

My mother, Rosa Maria Álvarez, is a hard-working, dedicated woman. She's a respected nurse at the local hospital. She's the best person I know, but as a mother she can be strict. Although she doesn't spend much time at home because of her job, when she is at home, she likes to take control and maintain order.