capeandcowl | 14 ☼ VIDEO

[Jessica is at Hudson River Park, sitting on the grass facing the Hudson and New Jersey. Beside her is Laura's still-to-be-named puppy, pouncing on a leaf blowing across the lawn.]

Brrr! It's gotten so cold all of a sudden. I can't believe it's autumn already! Before you know it, it'll be Halloween! And then Thanksgiving!

[She pats the ground and the puppy comes bounding back to her.]

Anyway, who all is going to the charity ball this weekend? I'm planning a shopping trip tomorrow after school if anyone wants to join me!

[This next part is purposely not filtered at all.]

Oh yeah! Hey, Text Guy! Hey!

[A pause.]

Jason. Yoohoo!

[She gives her most charming grin.]

Like, I know you think you're being super stealthy and stuff, but I've seen you creeping around the school. I saw you yesterday and I saw you again today, so don't try to deny it. What's the big idea? Why're you acting like such a weirdo? I know you're trying to be all scary and stuff, but sneaking around in broad daylight is not the way to do it. People are just gonna think you're a crazy stalker or something.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

He only got his shots yesterday so don't let him get too close to other dogs either.

[Laura stops herself, realizing what she's doing, and looks almost puzzled for a moment before she shakes it away.]

...Another dance?

He's totally safe with me. Don't you worry.

You have to have heard about the ball, Laura! It's this weekend! It's for charity!

A charity dance.

People pay to go and the money is donated to charity?

Uh-huh! I have just enough money saved up to get a ticket and get a new dress, so long as I don't have to buy new shoes to go with it!

[She's budgeting herself, Laura. Be proud!]