Reconstructing Amelia (unedited)

Chapter 28

November 15th 2019

"I'm thinking we make cupcakes," Janie announced as we stepped inside her flat. Her parents had stayed back at the cafe for the closing shift and would be back later.

"We could've just brought some with us from work," I reminded her with a smile.

"Yeah, but that's not as fun," Janie smirked, heading towards the kitchen. "C'mon, it'll be fun. We can play some music and talk all about that boy you like," My cheeks went pink.

"I do not like Neo," I protested, but my smile gave me away.

"Oh yeah?" Janie teased. "Your face is giving you away," I swatted at her playfully.

"I don't like him like that, I swear!"

"Well he sure has a thing for you," Janie insisted. "I mean seriously. Amusement parks, froyo walks, motorcycle rides. I don't know, Mia, it sure sounds like he likes you," she said in a sing-songy voice. I sat down on one of the stools.

"This is ridiculous. There's no way he likes me," I reasoned. Janie put her hands on her hips, giving me a reprimanding look.

"Oh girl, please," she chastised. "You are literally an angel. You're too perfect not to have him fall in love with you," I held my hands up in defence.

"Okay, liking someone and being in love with them are two completely different things!" Janie just shrugged, beginning to gather ingredients.

"And you need to figure out the difference and tell him how you feel," she insisted.

"I don't like him," I protested.

"Saying something over and over doesn't make it true. I can spot your crush from a mile away. Quit denying it and tell the boy you like him," Janie told me, her eyes shining. "You know I'm right, Mia," I sighed, grinning.

"Fine, maybe I like him a little," I admitted.

"See?!" Janie's face lit up in excitement. "This is only the first step of my plan. Consider me your personal wing-woman from now on," She gave me a wink. I rolled my eyes playfully.

"Just don't go all crazy on me," I warned with a smile. She laughed.

"Crazy? Oh Mia darling, I'm already planning the wedding!" And that's how we ended up chasing each other around the kitchen flinging flour everywhere, a giggling happy mess.

***

Several hours later, we were cuddled up in blankets on her couch, eating our cupcakes and watching cheesy romance films, all the while laughing and chatting up a frenzy. Her parents had come home earlier with some pop and snacks from the grocery store.

As the movie droned on softly, we both began to fall asleep on the couch, not even bothering to turn the television off. It provided a decent white noise anyway.

"Mia?" Janie whispered through the darkness.

"Yes?"

"I'm glad I have you as my best friend," My heart filled with warmth, equally loving her words.

"Me too, Janie," She laced her hand through mine before we both drifted off into a peaceful sleep.