Date I

Michael was hesitant initially, but teasing Alice was quite fun.

She responded better to his teasing than expected. He hadn't had a good talk with Alice for a while now. The date would change that.

Maria's complexion distorted drastically upon hearing Michael. She nibbled her lower lip and stared at him, yet Michael didn't notice anything. He was too busy having fun with Alice. 

Complicated feelings surfaced from the depth of her very being. 

Kaleb, the densest guy in the group, noticed a change in Maria's stance. She stood there as if frozen in time and continued staring at Michael. Kaleb was happy for his sister, but seeing Maria like this hurt. 

'She really likes Michael.' 

A burst of guilt swept through Kaleb. He couldn't help but approach Maria to distract her a little bit. It was partially his fault that Alice and Michae got closer.

"Hey Maria…"

**