*** Ariana's POV***
I got into the truck, but I had not closed the door yet when I heard someone calling me. I looked up from my phone, feeling perplexed, and saw Patty making taunting gestures at me. Did she see me? What could she possibly see me? They must not get as deep into kissing as Alex and I used to.
I poked my head out the door and started to face Patty. Carol looked over at me with an expression that seemed to say, "what is the matter with that girl?"
In response, I just sort of shrugged like I had no idea and started to walk towards Patty. I felt like I had a slight swagger to my step. For the first time in a long time, I did not feel intimidated by her. I felt only confidence and certainty about myself as I walked towards her and Alex.
I did not walk all the way up to t
