truth or dare - game on series #1

Stella

The crisp air bit at my cheeks as Bree and I strolled off campus, our boots crunching against the frosty ground. Winter had fully settled in.

"I swear," Bree said, blowing into her gloved hands, "if I don't get some hot chocolate soon, I'm going to freeze solid and they'll have to thaw me out in the spring."

I laughed, tucking my hands deeper into my pockets. "You're so dramatic. But fine. There's that new café a couple of blocks away. I think it's called The Cozy Bean or something equally cheesy."

"Perfect," Bree looped her arm through mine as we walked. "So, have you thought about Cameron lately?" she asked, a teasing lilt in her voice.

I groaned. "Do we have to talk about him?"

"Yes, we absolutely do," Bree replied, grinning. "He likes you, Stell. It's so obvious."

I shook my head. "You're imagining things. He's just nice. And besides, he's way out of my league."

"Please, you're absolutely amazing, so let's not do the whole 'out of my league' thing," Bree said, squeezing my arm.

I smiled despite myself. Bree had a way of making me feel better even when I didn't want to. "Well, even if he does like me, I'm not sure it matters. You know how things get when people find out about my... situation."

Bree's face darkened slightly, but before she could respond, a familiar voice called out from behind us.

"Star!"

I turned to see Cameron jogging toward us, his breath visible in the cold air. Beside him were two other guys: Luke, who I'd met briefly before, and Liam, who was grinning like he owned the world. Bree straightened slightly, her expression sharpening.

"Hey, Cameron," I said, feeling my cheeks heat up despite the cold.

"What are you two up to?" he asked, his gaze flicking between me and Bree.

"Hot chocolate," Bree said. "It's freezing, and we need something warm."

"Good call," Cameron said, smiling. He gestured to his friends. "This is Luke, and this is Liam."

Luke gave a polite nod, while Liam immediately stepped forward, his grin widening. "Ladies, it's a pleasure. Especially you," he said, his eyes on Bree.

Bree raised an eyebrow, her expression unimpressed. "Charming," she said dryly, crossing her arms.

"I try," Liam replied with a wink. "So, what are the chances I can convince you to hang out with me later?"

"Slim to none," Bree said, not missing a beat. "I'm not a fan of guys who think they can get any girl with a wink and a smile."

"Ouch." Liam's grin faltered for a moment before he recovered. "I like a challenge, though."

"Anyway," Cameron said, cutting through the banter, "what about the essay?"

"We probably need to figure out another time to work on it. It's due soon."

"How about tomorrow?" he suggested. "We've got a game tonight, so I can't."

"A game?" Bree asked, her interest piqued. "Is it here?"

"Yeah," Cameron said. "You should come. Both of you. It'll be fun."

I hesitated, glancing at Bree. "I don't know..."

"We'll be there," Bree said firmly, answering for both of us.

Cameron's eyes met mine, and he smiled. "Great. I'll see you there, Star."