Bridge to a Distant Star - Carolyn Williford [102]
Elegantly flipping her hair over her shoulder, Tiffany graced Michal with a smile that resembled a sneer. “Allistair and I met at tryouts for singing ensembles. We were the only two freshmen to make the top McMaster’s ministry team.”
Tiffany stared at Michal, one eyebrow raised, silent, waiting for the compliment. Instead, Allistair spoke. “Really? I don’t remember that.” He handed Michal her drink and a large-sized chocolate candy bar. “Well, good to see you, Tiff. Enjoy the game.” Abruptly turning his back on Tiffany, he sat down facing Michal.
But Tiffany wasn’t about to be dismissed. Resting her hand on Allistair’s shoulder, she added, “If I don’t see you tomorrow in class, I’ll see you on the bus.” She met Michal’s eyes, eyebrow lifted again. “Allistair and I will be road mates for the next week. Spending each and every day together, cooped up in that ratty ole bus. Giving concert after concert. At least we’re going to the beach, too.”
Allistair focused his attention on unwrapping his candy bar.
“Well, enjoy the game. I need to go pack.” She patted Allistair’s shoulder familiarly. Michal took it in, wide-eyed. “Good to meet you, Melissa.”
“Michal,” Allistair corrected, before Michal could utter anything. And then he looked up at Michal, eyes crossed. She stifled a laugh by coughing into her napkin.
“Oh, so sorry. Guess I’m not used to calling a girl by a boy’s name. See you Saturday, Allistair.” Tiffany turned on her heel and wove her way through the tables. Several guys turned their heads to follow her progress, but Allistair was not among them.
He leaned closer to Michal, whispering through clenched teeth, “She drives me insane. Honestly, I wish I hadn’t made that first team. Haven’t been able to get rid of her since.”
“But she’s—”
“Obnoxious. Stuck-up. And by the way, I took a chance you’d like a candy bar.” He grinned, noting it was already devoured, that she had some chocolate on her bottom lip and one finger in her mouth. “I take it you do? Did?”
Conscious that she was caught licking her fingers like a child, Michal blushed. “Oh, yeah. Thank you, that was really thoughtful. Actually, I love any kind of chocolate.”
“Never would’ve guessed,” he teased. “Any kind? No preferences at all?”
“None. We so rarely had chocolate in Ethiopia that … well, let’s just say it’s the ultimate treat.”
“Yeah? I’ll remember that. Might need to bribe you sometime.” He stood up, stretching. “Ready for the second half?”
Michal glanced enviously at the crowd milling toward the gym. “Allistair, I hope you don’t mind. But I think I’d better go review again for my exam.” A hint of disappointment glinted in his eyes and his smile began to disappear, so she rushed on before her resolve waned, “But I’ve had a wonderful time. It was a great break from studying. And I don’t want you to miss any of the game. I’ll walk back to the dorm by myself.”
“Oh, I couldn’t—”
“Please. I’d feel awful if you missed out on the best part of the game.” Allistair was still shaking his head doubtfully when Michal insisted, “Please, Allistair. I’ll be fine.” She held out her hand to shake his, which he took, giving her a somewhat puzzled look. “And the candy bar was super. Thank you so much. That was a special treat.”
Letting go of Michal’s hand, Allistair pushed his hands into his pockets, peered down at her. “Okay, newbie freshman.” She grinned. “Go study. I’ve heard rumors you’re a great student, a serious one. And I respect that. I sincerely do.”
Shy again, Michal looked away, muttered, “Well, thanks. My parents are sacrificing a lot for me to be here. I just have to … you know?”
“I do.”
“Well, um. Root for me too, okay? If we lose, I’ll hold you personally responsible.”
Allistair flashed that huge smile at her again. “Not the team? Just