Lovefool (complete 1st part of Lovefool trilogy)
Page 30
#29 THE WINNER TAKES IT ALL
He hadn't seen his best friend since she stepped back into his life. They have been talking on the phone from time to time, but their conversations were quite short. During the last call, Julian reminded Sebastian of the birthday party. Julian didn't want to go to such a party, he was busy with his things, but he was afraid of forgetting something important. Sebastian was his best friend and if you already promised to celebrate together, you should stick to your word.
Sebastian didn't notice any insecurity in Julian’s question and asked “Oh, party?” Somehow, he was sure there would be a party and in the back of his mind, this thought was already present. He wanted to present Anna to other people and he was already happy about this idea. His only doubt was to introduce her to Julian. It could go wrong for Sebastian if Julian would make a great impression on her and if she would like him much. But in the end he wasn't worried, because he was in love with her and his butterflies gave him such a dose of optimism that doubts had no chance to surface.
Everything was prepared: guests have been invited and confirmed their presence, food and drinks were already ordered. It should be a party like the one they were having before they started to study: no commerce, just a friendly sit-in at his house. Sebastian was convinced everything would be OK until Anna called and said she won’t go running this week. His party was planned for Saturday and she called him a week before to tell him she wasn't going. He was shocked. Without her, this party hadn't much sense. He didn't want to meet his friends, but to have her there. They were already going running for over three weeks and they saw each other almost every second day.
Now she was saying: no running, no party. In the moment, she spoke the words his world started to fall apart and he had to try to rescue everything he was able to save.
He said, she already promised and it would be very important for him to have her there. She answered she is not a party girl, so he wouldn't miss her much.
If her intention was to limit their relationship, she just succeeded. They just ran together, he was her employer, and she didn't want to mix these things together. These were facts. However, Sebastian didn't care about facts. He saw a wall rising between them and he knew that he would lose her again if he wouldn't insist on her coming to the party.
-Running or party. –He said and then he added quickly – decide when you have time for me.
Sebastian didn't know where this assertiveness came from, but he was pleased about it. Sometimes you have powers inside of you, which let you mange a situation even if you don't believe in it. Finally, she promised to get there. Strike!
Sebastian felt like a winner.
After this conversation, Julian called. His best friend wanted to cancel as well. He said, he was ill and didn’t feel well.
This case wasn't as urgent and important as the first one. Sebastian had celebrated his birthday with Julian a couple of times and it would be even better if Julian and Anna didn't meet. Just in case. On the other hand, Julian was his best friend, it was necessary to talk with him and find out how he felt. Additionally Julian would get to know Anna somehow anyway, so it didn't really matter: it was a good opportunity to introduce them to each other and to see their reactions.
-What is wrong with you?
-Nothing special, I am just tired.
- It’s OK, when you’re ill. But what’s wrong? How ill are you? Any help needed?
-As I said, I am just too worn-out. You know the girl I was talking about? I am looking for her, I was out and about during the last days and I guess I have to relax and slow down a little.
-You are right, but it is just an excuse. You can rest anytime.
-It’s a childish argument, even for me, right? – Julian noticed ironically.
-My girl will be there.
-Your girl? – Julian didn't even show any interest.
His voice stayed calm.
–Whatever. I will just step in and congratulate if you don't mind, I will go back home then.