I Will Never Be Her

Chapter 05

January 9, 2017: 356 days to complete resolution

Olivia entered the front doors of the apartment complex, teeth chattering wildly before the heat began to spread through her body. As she headed for the steps up to the next floor, she pulled out her phone and quickly called Katrina.

"Hey, Liv! How was the interview?"

Olivia's cheeks warmed up and she smiled just thinking about it. "I'll tell you all about it later. What are you doing?"

"Girl, it's Monday. It's movie night! I just put my pajamas on and I was about to order pizza."

"Um, slight change of plans."

Katrina snickered. "Do you have a date with Josh?"

Liv rolled her eyes. "No. Actually, I have a date with Melanie. In fact, we both do."

"Oh hell no. Liv, I don't want to," Katrina whined.

"We're going shopping for-"

"Never mind, I'm down. I'll change. Where are you?"

Liv reached the second floor, and turned to head to the third floor, where the apartment was. "I'm on the second floor, I'll be there in just a second."

"Okay, see you in just a second. Love youuuuu!"

"Love you too!"

She quickly entered the apartment and began getting ready, both Katrina and Liv just finishing up as the clock struck 7, and Melanie called, making the duo aware that she was waiting just in front of the door.

As they walked down the stairs, Liv got 2 text messages, one coming in right after the other, one from Josh and one from an unknown number.

Josh- hey liv! i hope your interview went well! call me when you get some results i love you so muchh 

She smiled and quickly answered. 

Olivia- I have a feeling it went very well! I'll definitely let you know when I find out! Love you too!!

After answering Josh, she opened the unknown number.

Unknown- Hey Liv, it's Samuel. I was just texting to let you know my number so you wouldn't be surprised when I called you. Have a great night!

Liv quickly saved his number and shot back a response.

Olivia- Thanks so much! I hope you have a great night as well!

Katrina and Liv quickly greeted Melanie and entered the car, Katrina all but shoving Liv into the passenger seat so she didn't have to sit there.

"Okay guys, I was thinking we could head to the mall, and then find some classy but low-key restaurant in the same area, if that works. I'll cover dinner, of course."

"Melanie, you don't have to do that."

"No, no, no." She kept one hand on the steering wheel and held the other up to wave away any arguments. "This outing was my idea; it's the least I can do."

Liv looked back at Kat who simply shrugged, so she caved. "If you insist. Thanks so much." 

Melanie smiled brightly and simply nodded, reaching for the radio.

As they drove, Liv couldn't help but acknowledge what a nice, cute, and overall pleasant person Melanie was. She was actively engaging in conversation, yet not in a way that felt forced, singing along to the radio in an endearing and not at all annoying way, and kept a close check on both of her passengers to make sure they were completely comfortable. If they'd been in any other situation, Liv is certain that she'd adore Melanie. Yet, she couldn't help but feel resentment towards her for capturing Josh's heart.