{"id":729,"date":"2009-02-02T11:18:00","date_gmt":"2009-02-02T11:18:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/ceceliadowdy.com\/blog\/2009\/02\/lost-in-las-vegas-by-melody-carlson.html"},"modified":"2009-02-02T11:18:00","modified_gmt":"2009-02-02T11:18:00","slug":"lost-in-las-vegas-by-melody-carlson","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/ceceliadowdy.com\/blog\/2009\/02\/lost-in-las-vegas-by-melody-carlson\/","title":{"rendered":"Lost In Las Vegas by Melody Carlson"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"<\/a><\/a>It is time for a FIRST Wild Card Tour<\/a><\/span><\/strong> book review! If you wish to join the FIRST blog alliance, just click the button. We are a group of reviewers who tour Christian books. A Wild Card post includes a brief bio of the author and a full chapter from each book toured. The reason it is called a FIRST Wild Card Tour is that you never know if the book will be fiction, non~fiction, for young, or for old…or for somewhere in between! Enjoy your free peek into the book!<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

You never know when I might play a wild card on you!<\/em><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Today’s Wild Card author is: <\/strong><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

Melody Carlson<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

and the book:<\/span> <\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Lost in Las Vegas (Carter House Girls Series)<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

Zondervan (February 1, 2009) <\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:<\/span> <\/span><\/strong><\/div>\n

\"\"id=\"BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297305295456040322\"<\/a>Melody Carlson has written more than 200 books for teens, women, and children. Before publishing, Melody traveled around the world, volunteered in teen ministry, taught preschool, raised two sons, and worked briefly in interior design and later in international adoption. “I think real-life experiences inspire the best friction,” she says. Her wide variety of books seems to prove this theory.<\/p>\n

Visit the author’s website<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Product Details:<\/p>\n

List Price: $9.99
Reading level: Young Adult
Paperback: 208 pages
Publisher: Zondervan (February 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0310714923
ISBN-13: 978-0310714927 <\/p>\n

AND NOW…THE FIRST CHAPTER:<\/span> <\/strong>
<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"id=\"BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297303451842174274\"<\/a><\/p>\n

\u201cRemind me to never, ever star in another high school musical again.\u201d Eliza sighed dramatically as she poured her coffee. It was the Sunday morning after the final performance of South Pacific and DJ suspected that Eliza was just fishing for compliments. Not that she hadn\u2019t already gotten plenty. And last night, she\u2019d been presented with a huge bouquet of roses. DJ knew they were from Eliza\u2019s parents, but Eliza received them like an Oscar.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut what if Mr. Harper really does High School Musical in the spring?\u201d asked Kriti with wide dark eyes. DJ could tell by the way Kriti said this that she was hoping he would. Eliza probably was too.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat is so last week,\u201d said Taylor.<\/p>\n

\u201cMeaning you wouldn\u2019t participate in it?\u201d Eliza pushed a long strand of blond hair over her shoulder and sat up straighter, looking directly at Taylor like this was a personal challenge.<\/p>\n

Taylor rolled her eyes then reached for the fruit platter. \u201cMeaning I don\u2019t really want to think about it right now. Sheesh, Eliza, didn\u2019t you just ask us to remind you never to be another musical?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cEliza is probably just trying to secure her next starring role,\u201d said Rhiannon. Then she frowned like she hadn\u2019t really meant it to sound like that. \u201cAnd why shouldn\u2019t she?\u201d she added quickly. \u201cEliza was absolutely fantastic as Nurse Nellie. Everyone said so.\u201d <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd it\u2019s obvious that Eliza will never want us to forget that she was a star,\u201d teased Casey.<\/p>\n

\u201cWas.\u201d Taylor chuckled. \u201cAs in she\u2019s a has-been now.\u201d<\/p>\n

Some of the girls snickered, but Eliza just glared at Taylor.<\/p>\n

Then as if she\u2019d just started listening, Grandmother cleared her throat, closing the open date book that she\u2019d been studying, she looked at the girls. \u201cI see there are only two weeks remaining until winter break, ladies.\u201d She shook her head sadly. \u201cI just can\u2019t believe that it\u2019s already December. It seems like only yesterday that you girls arrived at Carter House. My, my, how time flies.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd the Winter Ball is next Saturday,\u201d Eliza reminded them. As if anyone could\u2019ve forgotten with all posters plastered all over the school. But DJ was still unsure. Conner had asked her to go, but she hadn\u2019t agreed. Even though Haley hadn\u2019t returned to school yet, it still made DJ uncomfortable to be seen as more than \u201cjust friends\u201d with Conner. And DJ knew that Haley\u2019s swim team buddies were probably reporting to her. <\/p>\n

\u201cMy mother and I are shopping for gowns today,\u201d continued Eliza. She glanced at her roommate. \u201cAnd Kriti too, or course.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI already have my dress,\u201d said Taylor. \u201cA little something my mother sent over from Milan while she was performing there last month.\u201d <\/p>\n

DJ could tell this little dig was aimed directly at Eliza. The two girls had been going at it steadily for the last couple of weeks. It had started when Eliza\u2019s boyfriend Harry had made what Eliza interpreted as a flirtatious move toward Taylor during a rehearsal for the musical. Actually, DJ had seen it herself and, although she hadn\u2019t told anyone, she felt certain that Harry had been flirting too. But he\u2019d been unaware that Eliza had been watching at the time. Yet, in a way, DJ was glad Eliza and Taylor were at odds again. They had all experienced those two \u201cpower forces\u201d united during last month\u2019s ski trip\u2014and it had been rather frightening experience. Sort of like it might be if Russia and China ever got together.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy mother offered to shop a gown for me in Paris,\u201d said Eliza, her attempt at one-upping Taylor. \u201cBut I told her to wait. I wouldn\u2019t want to risk having a dress that fit poorly.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s why God invented alterations, Eliza,\u201d said Taylor. \u201cOr perhaps you don\u2019t have such conveniences down south.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t see why girls think they need to go out and spend a bunch of money on something new for a silly dance,\u201d said Casey. She glanced at Rhiannon and DJ suspected that Casey was trying to make her feel better. \u201cI mean you\u2019ll wear that dress like one time. What a waste!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo what do you intend to wear?\u201d asked Eliza with a bored sort of interest. \u201cYour Doc Martins and something with spikes?\u201d<\/p>\n

Casey made a face. \u201cActually, I might go eighties retro. Like Madonna or Blondie.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRight.\u201d Eliza turned up her nose. \u201cAnd the Winter Ball theme is White Christmas and we\u2019re supposed to dress in a fifties style of Hollywood elegance.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou take those posters literally?\u201d asked Casey.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey suggested dresses in Christmas colors of red, green or white.\u201d Eliza continued like she was reading it from a brochure. <\/p>\n

\u201cI think it\u2019ll be pretty,\u201d said Kriti. <\/p>\n

\u201cI intend to look for something sparkly in white to show off my tan,\u201d said Eliza.<\/p>\n

\u201cFake tan.\u201d Taylor pushed a curly dark strand of hair away from her face and laughed. \u201cMy dress is black.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt figures.\u201d Eliza snickered.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going to wear green,\u201d said Rhiannon quickly, like she was trying to keep this from escalating.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean it figures?\u201d demanded Taylor.<\/p>\n

\u201cEveryone else will look Christmassy in red, green or white and the vamp will show up wearing black.\u201d Eliza laughed.<\/p>\n

\u201cSpeaking of Winter Break,\u201d said Grandmother loudly. \u201cWhat exactly are your plans, ladies?\u201d She opened her date book and picked up her silver pen. \u201cI\u2019d like to make note of it now, if you don\u2019t mind.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be in France for Christmas,\u201d Eliza announced proudly. <\/p>\n

\u201cSo you\u2019ll be flying directly to France from Connecticut?\u201d inquired Grandmother.<\/p>\n

\u201cActually, I\u2019ll spend the first week or so in Kentucky,\u201d admitted Eliza. \u201cVisiting with friends and family. Then my older siblings and I will travel together just before Christmas. My mother said the rooms aren\u2019t completely renovated yet. Her designer, a well-known Parisian, promises to have it completed before Christmas Eve.\u201d <\/p>\n

\u201cLa\u2014tee\u2014da,\u201d said Casey.<\/p>\n

Grandmother frowned at Casey. \u201cSo, how about you, Miss Atwood? When will you be departing for California?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe same day that school is out.\u201d<\/p>\n

Grandmother made note of this. <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I\u2019ll be leaving the day after school it out,\u201d said Rhiannon.<\/p>\n

Grandmother\u2019s brows lifted with curiosity. \u201cTo go where, dear?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTo an aunt who lives in Maine.\u201d<\/p>\n

Grandmother smiled. \u201cThat\u2019s nice. I didn\u2019t know you had an aunt, Rhiannon.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t either. She\u2019s actually a great aunt and\u2026\u201d Rhiannon paused as if unsure. \u201cMy mother may be joining me up there.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cReally?\u201d Grandmother looked a bit skeptical, and everyone else got quiet. They all knew that Rhiannon\u2019s mother was in drug rehab\u2014the lockdown kind. <\/p>\n

\u201cYes. If my aunt signs something, they\u2019ll release her for the holidays.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cVery interesting.\u201d Grandmother looked at Kriti now. \u201cI assume you\u2019ll be in New York?\u201d<\/p>\n

Kriti nodded happily. \u201cYes. We have some relatives coming from India to visit. My mother is very excited.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019m sure you\u2019ll have a delightful Christmas.\u201d Grandmother frowned with realization. \u201cI suppose you don\u2019t call it Christmas, do you, Kriti?\u201d<\/p>\n

Kriti looked slightly embarrassed. \u201cIt\u2019s a different sort of holiday, Mrs. Carter. We celebrate things like love, affection, sharing, and the renewing of family bonds.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat sounds lovely.\u201d Grandmother looked at Taylor now. \u201cAnd what will you be doing during the holidays, dear?\u201d<\/p>\n

Taylor sighed. \u201cMy mother has invited me to tour with her.\u201d<\/p>\n

Grandmother\u2019s eyes lit up. She was a huge fan of Eva Perez. \u201cWhere will she be touring? Europe still?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI wish. No, she\u2019ll be in the southwest by then. And it looks like we\u2019ll be spending Christmas in Las Vegas.\u201d<\/p>\n

Eliza snickered. \u201cCharming.\u201d<\/p>\n

Taylor tossed her a warning glance. \u201cHey, Las Vegas has its perks.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMost importantly, is that you\u2019re with family, Taylor.\u201d Grandmother smiled. \u201cIsn\u2019t that what Christmas is all about?\u201d<\/p>\n

Taylor shrugged. \u201cI guess.\u201d<\/p>\n

Now Grandmother looked at DJ. \u201cNow, you\u2019re still certain you don\u2019t want to join your father and his family for Christmas, Desiree?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Grandmother.\u201d DJ tried not to show frustration. But she and Grandmother had already been over this. The last place DJ wanted to be during Christmas break was with her father\u2019s happy little step family. It was bad enough that this would be her first Christmas without her mother. But to be stuck playing the live-in babysitter to the toddler twins was unimaginable.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019m sure that we\u2019ll have a delightful time right here at home.\u201d Grandmother smiled at DJ. \u201cPerhaps we\u2019ll have the general over.\u201d<\/p>\n

DJ got sympathetic glances from Rhiannon and Casey and maybe even Kriti. Not that she wanted their pity. But Eliza just smiled smugly. And Taylor, well, she was a hard one to read. <\/p>\n

But later that day, after DJ and Rhiannon got back from church, Taylor asked DJ if she was happy about her \u201choliday plans.\u201d<\/p>\n

DJ groaned as she flopped onto her bed. \u201cHoliday plans? Like I planned any of this?\u201d<\/p>\n

Taylor laughed. \u201cYeah, I guess not.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be fine,\u201d DJ assured her. \u201cI\u2019ll catch up on sleep and reading.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe Conner will be around to keep you entertained,\u201d Taylor said in a sexy sounding teasing tone.<\/p>\n

\u201cConner is going with his family to Montana for two weeks.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBummer.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTell me about it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know!\u201d Taylor exclaimed. \u201cYou\u2019ll come out to Las Vegas and visit me for Christmas.\u201d<\/p>\n

DJ just laughed. \u201cOh, yeah, like that\u2019s going to happen.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not?\u201d Taylor looked slightly hurt.<\/p>\n

\u201cSeriously, Christmas in Las Vegas?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, besides the fact that it sounds totally crazy. I know that my grandmother would never\u2014in a million years\u2014agree to something like that.\u201d And the truth was that DJ was secretly relieved for this excuse. Because, really, the only thing she could imagine being worse than spending Christmas with Grandmother in Connecticut, or even her father\u2019s step family in California, would be to spend Christmas in Las Vegas with Taylor Mitchell. <\/p>\n

Chapter 2<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you just go to the dance with Conner?\u201d demanded Casey as DJ drove them home from school on Tuesday. <\/p>\n

\u201cI agree with Casey,\u201d said Taylor. \u201cWhy don\u2019t you just get it over with and say you\u2019ll go?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI agree too,\u201d chimed in Rhiannon. \u201cJust go, DJ.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know you want to,\u201d urged Casey.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I\u2019ve admitted that,\u201d said DJ. \u201cBut I just don\u2019t want to risk hurting Haley again. She\u2019s been through so much already.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat wasn\u2019t your fault,\u201d pointed out Rhiannon.<\/p>\n

And, sure, DJ knew that she hadn\u2019t been the one to push Haley into her \u201cfake\u201d suicide attempt\u2014an attempt that nearly killed her. But DJ cared about Haley. She didn\u2019t want to take any chances.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut you said that when Haley was in the hospital, she told you that she was fine with you and Conner getting back\u2014\u201c<\/p>\n

\u201cSure, she said that. But who knows how she really feels? Or even how she feels now?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere exactly is she now?\u201d ventured Taylor.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not supposed to say.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe know it\u2019s some kind of loony bin,\u201d said Taylor. \u201cWhy not just be honest and tell us?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not a loony bin.\u201d DJ scowled at Taylor as she stopped for the light. \u201cIf you must know, it\u2019s a therapeutic clinic in New Jersey.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTomatoes, to-MAH-toes. Same thing, Deej.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhatever. The point is I don\u2019t want to hurt her.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know what you\u2019re worried about\u2026\u201d Taylor was using that sly tone she sometimes put on to get DJ going. \u201cYou think Haley\u2019s thugs are going to beat you up again, don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI do not.\u201d Okay, the truth was, that was a little worrisome. DJ had done what she could to befriend Bethany and Amy while Haley was still in the hospital. And while Amy showed some signs of understanding, Bethany (a very large and athletic girl) was another story. Bethany was fiercely loyal to Haley. So much so that DJ sometimes secretly wondered if Bethany had feelings beyond just friendship for Haley. Okay, that was dumb. But Bethany was scary. <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you just call Haley?\u201d suggested Casey. \u201cAsk her how she feels about it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat seems a little harsh,\u201d pointed out DJ. \u201cI mean she\u2019s being treated for suicide and I\u2019m calling up to see if it\u2019s okay if I go to the Winter Ball with the guy she almost OD\u2019d for? Maybe I should ask her about my dress too and if I go for a white gown is it okay to wear white shoes after Labor Day?\u201d
\u201cYeah, that does seem a little harsh,\u201d agreed Rhiannon.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, really, you guys can give it up okay,\u201d said DJ. \u201cI think Conner already has.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI just feel sad that you\u2019re the only one in Carter House who\u2019s not going,\u201d said Rhiannon. <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, don\u2019t.\u201d DJ turned onto their street, eager to end this conversation. The truth was DJ felt a little sad about the whole thing herself. In fact, it seemed a little unfair. But it also seemed like the mature thing to do. As far as Crescent Cove High and the world at large were concerned, she and Conner were still just friends. And that\u2019s how she planned to keep it until she knew that Haley could handle it. <\/p>\n

\u201cSo, do you think Rhiannon and I could borrow your car?\u201d asked Casey. \u201cWe still have a few things to pick up for the dance.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure\u2026\u201d DJ pulled into the driveway, suddenly feeling even more out of it. \u201cYou mean this afternoon?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you don\u2019t mind\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019d ask you to come along too,\u201d said Rhiannon in an apologetic, \u201cbut that might seem crass\u2026considering you\u2019re not going to the dance\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHey, why don\u2019t we all go,\u201d suggested Taylor suddenly. \u201cYou two can hit your retro stores and DJ can help me pick out some really hot shoes.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay,\u201d said DJ, actually feeling eager. \u201cAnd I\u2019ll just pretend like I\u2019m going to the dance too.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWho knows,\u201d said Casey, \u201cmaybe we\u2019ll change your mind.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOr maybe just talk you into a new pair of shoes,\u201d teased Taylor.<\/p>\n

So off they headed to the mall. And for a while DJ even pretended that she, like them, was getting ready to go to the dance. She even held up some dresses and imagined she was going. <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, DJ,\u201d said Taylor as DJ held up a garnet red sequined number. \u201cThat is really hot.\u201d She shook her head. \u201cAnd most people say blondes can\u2019t wear red.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019m just a dishwater blond,\u201d DJ reminded her. <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you just go?\u201d demanded Taylor. \u201cIf it makes you feel better, send Haley a note to explain it. Sheesh, she\u2019s in therapy anyway\u2026might give her something to talk about during one of her group sessions.\u201d<\/p>\n

DJ couldn\u2019t help but laugh. Still, it seemed mean.<\/p>\n

\u201cSeriously, DJ. You might be doing her a favor to go. Kind of a reality check. I mean it\u2019s about time Haley figured out that, even though she tries to kill herself, she can\u2019t control other people. If a guy doesn\u2019t like you, he just doesn\u2019t like you. Get over it already.\u201d<\/p>\n

DJ considered this. As harsh as it sounded, it was probably true. \u201cI don\u2019t know\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLook, DJ,\u201d said Taylor. \u201cI know you\u2019re trying to be nice\u2014the goody-good girl. But have you considered the possibility that you\u2019re just being codependent?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHuh?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou actually have some codependent traits.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, your desire to keep everyone happy and\u2014\u201c<\/p>\n

\u201cI do NOT try to keep everyone happy.\u201d<\/p>\n

Taylor laughed. \u201cThat\u2019s right. You usually try to make me miserable.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI do not.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSee,\u201d said Taylor, like that proved her point. <\/p>\n

DJ felt confused.<\/p>\n

\u201cAll I\u2019m saying is that you and Conner go tiptoeing around, pretending you\u2019re not dating so that you can protect Haley\u2019s delicate feelings while she\u2019s in the loony bin and you think you\u2019re helping her? What happens when she\u2019s back in the real world and you and Conner, say, want to go to the prom, do you blame yourselves if Haley gets hurt and goes and jumps off a bridge? Will you forever be responsible for Haley and the choices she makes?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat does sound a little creepy\u2026when you put it like that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt sounds unhealthy and codependent to me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, stop it!\u201d
DJ pulled out her phone now and hit Conner\u2019s speed dial. \u201cConner,\u201d she said in a firm voice, \u201cdo you still want to take me to the Winter Ball?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course.\u201d<\/p>\n

So she quickly replayed what Taylor had just said and Conner actually laughed. \u201cWell, I can\u2019t believe that the roommate from hell could just tell you what I\u2019ve been saying to you for weeks, but you would listen to her and not to me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry,\u201d said DJ. \u201cSometimes God works in mysterious ways.\u201d<\/p>\n

Taylor frowned at her with arms folded across her chest and toe tapping.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnyway, if you\u2019re okay, I\u2019m okay,\u201d said DJ. \u201cBut I plan to write Haley a little note to let her know what\u2019s up. I think it\u2019ll just be kind of like an I\u2019m-thinking-of-you sort of email, and then I\u2019ll casually mention that we\u2019re going to the dance next weekend. Does that sound okay?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think you even need to do that much, DJ.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI just want to.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah\u2026that\u2019s just one of the things I like about you.\u201d<\/p>\n

She smiled. \u201cOkay, then\u2026sounds like it\u2019s a date.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou bet!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBy the way, the dress is red.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRight\u2026does that mean I need a red tux?\u201d<\/p>\n

DJ laughed and whispered to Taylor, \u201cConner just asked me if he needs to get a red tux.\u201d<\/p>\n

Taylor snatched the phone. \u201cNot red, you idiot.\u201d Then she told him specifically what he needed and where to get it before she handed the phone back to DJ.<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry about that,\u201d said DJ.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, it\u2019s actually helpful. But I probably should\u2019ve been taking notes.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure Taylor can write it down for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGuess I can tell the guys to put me down for the stretch limo now. Harry\u2019s already ordered a Hummer.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSounds fun.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m looking forward to it,\u201d said Conner. \u201cThis will be our first real date in a long time.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDate?\u201d DJ echoed as the meaning of the word sank in.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it is, isn\u2019t it?\u201d
\u201cYeah\u2026\u201d she nodded slowly. \u201cI guess so.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you\u2019re okay with that?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah\u2026I\u2019m just getting used to the idea.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHave fun shopping.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks.\u201d DJ hung up and looked at Taylor. \u201cI guess we\u2019re going.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, you\u2019re going.\u201d Taylor shoved the red dress at her. \u201cNow, try this on. I think it\u2019s you\u2019re size, but I\u2019ll grab a couple of others just in case.\u201d<\/p>\n

After several tries, DJ found the perfect fit and when she came out to show Taylor, a couple other shoppers paused to look. Everyone agreed that it was perfect. DJ spun around. \u201cIt feels so good to be in a dress like this without a big old cast on my foot.\u201d<\/p>\n

Taylor laughed and explained to the bystanders that DJ had recently recovered from a broken leg. <\/p>\n

\u201cYou look stunning,\u201d said the sales woman. \u201cDo you want me to start writing it up for you?\u201d
DJ paused. \u201cOh, I didn\u2019t even look at the price.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJust put it on granny\u2019s account,\u201d ordered Taylor.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut I\u2014\u201c<\/p>\n

\u201cTrust me,\u201d said Taylor. \u201cIf necessary, I\u2019ll do the explaining. But I know that you\u2019re grandmother would want you to have this dress, Desiree!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Desiree,\u201d said the sales woman, \u201cI\u2019m sure she would.\u201d<\/p>\n

But while Taylor was taking the dress up to the counter, DJ called her grandmother and quickly explained. \u201cAnd Taylor insists it\u2019s the perfect dress,\u201d she said finally, \u201cbut I think it\u2019s a bit ex\u2014\u201c<\/p>\n

\u201cIf Taylor says it\u2019s perfect, it\u2019s perfect,\u201d proclaimed Grandmother. \u201cAnd I\u2019m so pleased to hear you\u2019re going to the Winter Ball, Desiree. I didn\u2019t want to say anything, or to make you feel badly, but I was terribly disappointed when I heard you hadn\u2019t been invited.\u201d<\/p>\n

DJ almost pointed out that she HAD been invited but that she\u2019d declined, but then she realized it would make no difference. Grandmother, as usual, would draw her own conclusions. Why bother? \u201cThanks, Grandmother,\u201d she said brightly. \u201cAnd now I\u2019ll need shoes and\u2014\u201c<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, you will. Ask Taylor to help you with those too. Her taste is as impeccable as her looks.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay\u2026.\u201d What Grandmother didn\u2019t know never failed to astonish DJ. Still, everyone knew that Taylor was Grandmother\u2019s prize pony. <\/p>\n

\u201cThe second-hand shoppers just called,\u201d said Taylor after the saleswoman put the dress on her grandmother\u2019s account and handed over the sleek garment bag. \u201cI told them the good news and that it\u2019ll take us at least an hour to snag the other things you\u2019ll need.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThey were okay with that?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure, Rhiannon said they\u2019d just grab the metro back to town.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThey didn\u2019t mind using public transportation?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know those two.\u201d Taylor shook her head. \u201cThe grittier it gets the happier they are.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDid they find what they\u2019re looking for?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSounded like it.\u201d Taylor hurried DJ along. \u201cAnd I just remembered a great pair of shoes that I noticed several shops back. I think they\u2019ll be perfect with that dress.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGrandmother knew you would.\u201d<\/p>\n

Taylor looked curiously at DJ then laughed. \u201cWell, of course!\u201d<\/p>\n

By the time they finished, DJ was starving. \u201cLet\u2019s get something at the food court,\u201d she urged Taylor. \u201cI\u2019m craving real food.\u201d
Taylor looked like she was going to turn up her nose, but then she noticed the new Japanese place. \u201cI could go for sushi.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d said DJ, pulling Taylor by the arm. \u201cI mean real food. You\u2019ve been bossing me around the fashion arena, I\u2019m going to boss you around the cuisine arena. We\u2019re having pasta.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPasta?\u201d Taylor\u2019s eyes lit up.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah. And, trust me, we\u2019ve done enough walking and shopping that you don\u2019t need to worry about the calories.\u201d<\/p>\n

And so they didn\u2019t. And as they sat there slurping up linguini with pesto, DJ thought there might be hope for them yet. After all, hadn\u2019t this been a fairly normal shopping trip? Just two friends out getting ready for the Winter Ball? And yet DJ knew Taylor well enough to know that Taylor could pull the rug out from under her at any given moment. And while that was kind of exciting\u2014in an adrenaline rush sort of way\u2014it was also a little frightening. <\/p>\n

Chapter 3<\/p>\n

\u201cShow and tell,\u201d said Eliza as soon as DJ and Taylor came into the house with their arms loaded up with bags.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Taylor frowned at Eliza.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome on,\u201d urged Eliza in her southern singsong voice. \u201cShow and tell.\u201d
Taylor rolled her eyes. \u201cIn your dreams.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut I showed you girls my dress on Sunday night,\u201d she protested.<\/p>\n

\u201cShowed off, don\u2019t you mean?\u201d Taylor just kept walking up the stairs.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, DJ,\u201d urged Eliza. \u201cDon\u2019t you want to show us your dress? We already know that you\u2019re going to the dance.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWho told you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYour grandmother,\u201d Kriti informed. \u201cAt dinner.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo you\u2019ve decided that Haley can just go take a flying leap?\u201d teased Eliza.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. I realized that I was doing her no favors by sparing her from the truth.\u201d DJ looked up the stairs. Taylor was already in their room. \u201cMy roommate helped me to see the light.\u201d<\/p>\n

Eliza laughed loudly. <\/p>\n

Now Rhiannon and Casey looked down the stairs. \u201cDid you find a dress?\u201d called down Rhiannon.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, but Taylor and DJ won\u2019t let us see their dresses,\u201d Eliza called back up.<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t say that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, can we see?\u201d asked Eliza hopefully.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll think about it,\u201d said DJ. Then she ran up the stairs. <\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re watching a chick flick down here,\u201d said Kriti. \u201cIf you\u2019re interested.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks,\u201d said DJ. \u201cBut I have homework.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd we\u2019re designing,\u201d called Rhiannon.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo we\u2019ve heard,\u201d Eliza called back. \u201cNot that we\u2019re interested. Are we, Kriti. Who cares what everyone else in the house is wearing. We know that we\u2019ll look great.\u201d<\/p>\n

DJ couldn\u2019t help but laugh as she went up the stairs. Why was it so vital for Eliza to know what everyone else was wearing? Of course, DJ knew the answer to this. It\u2019s like everything was a competition with that girl. A competition where Eliza Wilton had to come out on top. And DJ had seen Eliza\u2019s beautiful white dress. To be honest, it could\u2019ve passed for a wedding dress. A comment that Taylor made, but not in such a flattering way. But there was no denying that it was beautiful\u2014in a confectionary sort of way. All sparkly white and fitted, and Eliza did look like a princess in it. Fitting since Eliza probably did consider herself to be royalty. At least in Carter House. <\/p>\n

And Kriti had looked like a nice little lady in waiting to Princess Eliza in her red velvet gown. Although DJ had thought it hadn\u2019t done much for Kriti\u2019s shape. Not that Kriti had a bad shape. But the velvet seemed heavy and awkward and probably added pounds, which didn\u2019t help since Kriti was much shorter than the other girls, and not as slender. Anyway, it seemed that the dress overwhelmed her. But Eliza had proclaimed it perfect. And for a handmaid, it probably was. Poor Kriti. Still, she seemed happy with her lot in life\u2014catering to Eliza. <\/p>\n

\u201cWant a sneak peek?\u201d whispered Rhiannon once DJ was at the second floor landing.<\/p>\n

\u201cOf you guys?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, but we\u2019d like to see your dress too.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure.\u201d DJ slipped into their room, unzipping her bag to reveal the scrumptious gown.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s gorgeous,\u201d said Rhiannon with an affirming nod. \u201cReally, really beautiful.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSwanky,\u201d teased Casey.<\/p>\n

DJ frowned. <\/p>\n

\u201cBut pretty,\u201d Casey said quickly.<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks. Now, show me what you guys put together.\u201d DJ looked around the messy room. Rhiannon\u2019s sewing machine was still out and there were pieces of dresses and scarves and fabric strewn all about. \u201cIt\u2019s certainly interesting in here.\u201d<\/p>\n

Rhiannon went over to her sewing machine and lifted up what appeared to be a pile of varying shades of green fabric. But when she held it up it turned into what looked like an incredible creation. \u201cWhat do you think?\u201d she asked hopefully.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think it\u2019s fantastic, Rhiannon.\u201d DJ went closer to examine it. Constructed of all different types of green fabrics, scarves, ribbons, beads and trims and yet it didn\u2019t look goofy or homemade. \u201cIt\u2019s amazing.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIsn\u2019t it?\u201d said Casey with pride. \u201cI can\u2019t believe she made this from scrap.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFrom recycled dresses and blouses and whatever I could find that worked,\u201d said Rhiannon.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou could sell clothes like this,\u201d said DJ. <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you don\u2019t need to worry about anyone wearing the same dress,\u201d added Casey.<\/p>\n

Rhiannon laughed. \u201cFor sure.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHold it up,\u201d urged DJ.<\/p>\n

Rhiannon held it in front of her, and those rich green tones against her pale skin and vibrant red hair looked absolutely stunning. <\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t imagine anything more beautiful,\u201d said DJ. \u201cIt\u2019s perfect.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI told her she looks like a Celtic goddess,\u201d said Casey.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s certainly magical. It reminds me of Ireland\u2026or fairies.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks so much, you guys!\u201d Rhiannon was beaming now. \u201cIt\u2019s kind of hard, you know, not having money like some people and trying to keep up with\u2026well, everyone.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s no need to keep up with me,\u201d said Casey. <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you wearing, Case?\u201d DJ turned to look at her.<\/p>\n

\u201cJust like I said.\u201d Casey opened her closet and pulled out something that looked like a cross between a string corset and a multi-ruffled petticoat. \u201cAnd I\u2019ll wear my black motorcycle jacket and fishnets and boots. You know, the rocking retro thing.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cEliza\u2019s going to love this,\u201d teased DJ.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think that\u2019s why she\u2019s doing it.\u201d Rhiannon got a slight frown. \u201cJust to get Eliza\u2019s goat.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd to express my individuality,\u201d proclaimed Casey.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll both be one of a kind,\u201d said DJ. And a part of her wished that she\u2019d used more ingenuity for her own gown. But, to be fair, creativity was not her strong suit. And she\u2019d always been fashion-challenged.<\/p>\n

As DJ zipped her gown back into the bag, Casey chuckled. \u201cWith you in that dress, Princess Eliza will probably be pea green with envy.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI doubt that,\u201d said DJ. \u201cBut it\u2019s fun making her wait.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPrincess Eliza needs to learn that she doesn\u2019t rule Carter House,\u201d proclaimed Casey defiantly. <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d agreed DJ, \u201cThis isn\u2019t Eliza-lot.\u201d<\/p>\n

Rhiannon laughed. <\/p>\n

\u201cThanks for showing me your dresses.\u201d DJ headed for the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you promise you won\u2019t show Eliza?\u201d Casey peered at her.<\/p>\n

DJ shrugged. \u201cDon\u2019t know why I should.\u201d<\/p>\n

Casey gave her a thumb\u2019s up.<\/p>\n

Of course, DJ felt slightly guilty now. It\u2019s not like she specifically wanted to mean or to exclude Eliza. But sometimes Eliza was so pushy. Oh, she\u2019d do it in that sweet southern style. But it felt pushy all the same. And, knowing that Eliza\u2019s parents were from one of the wealthiest families in the country didn\u2019t make it any easier to be nice. And, really, this wasn\u2019t Eliza-lot!<\/p>\n

\u201cDid you see Rhiannon and Casey\u2019s dresses?\u201d Taylor asked with mild interest, not even looking up from her fashion rag. <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah.\u201d DJ hung her dress in the closet. \u201cRhiannon\u2019s is spectacular.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cReally?\u201d Taylor set the magazine aside.<\/p>\n

\u201cLike it could be in a movie spectacular.\u201d<\/p>\n

Taylor\u2019s brow creased slightly. \u201cMaybe we should pay the girl to start designing for us.\u201d<\/p>\n

DJ picked up her laptop then sat on her bed. \u201cYou know\u2026that\u2019s not a bad idea, Taylor.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019d have our own designer originals and Rhiannon could make money for college.\u201d<\/p>\n

DJ stared at Taylor in wonder. \u201cSometimes you blow my mind, Taylor.\u201d<\/p>\n

Taylor looked surprised now. \u201cHuh?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can be\u2026kind of mean sometimes\u2026and then surprisingly nice.\u201d<\/p>\n

Taylor just shrugged then returned to her magazine. \u201cWe all have our faults.\u201d<\/p>\n

DJ laughed and opened her laptop. \u201cI guess\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

But before DJ even started her homework, she decided to write Haley the promised note. She and Haley had emailed a few times (not daily) since Haley had gone to Oak View for treatment. Finally, DJ felt like the note had just the right tone to it. Light and encouraging, but honest and to the point. She read through it one more time.<\/p>\n

Hey Haley. I hope you\u2019re doing well. Life around here is pretty much the same. School is boring. Finals are impending. And everyone is counting down the days to Christmas break. Everyone but me that is since all I get to do is stick around Carter House with my grandmother. Big thrill. I just wanted you to know (from me and not someone else) that I\u2019m going to the Winter Ball with Conner next Saturday. The main reason I decided to go was because he felt left out since all his friends were going. And I suppose I felt left out too. I wish you were around so you could go to. I know there are dozens of guys who would jump at the chance to take you! And I hope it\u2019s not upsetting for you to hear that Conner and I are going to this dance together. I know you said that it\u2019s over between you two. But I don\u2019t want to make you feel sad. Catch ya later. Love, DJ.<\/p>\n

DJ said a quick prayer for Haley then hit send. Really, she told herself as she switched gears to homework, Taylor was right. This might be one more step in Haley getting over it. And if it wasn\u2019t, well, wouldn\u2019t it be better for Haley to be where she had professional help anyway? Still, DJ decide this would be even more motivation to keep praying for Haley. She really did want her to get well\u2014and soon. Hopefully Haley would be back to normal and back school after winter break. <\/p>\n

The next three days at school seemed focused on two things\u2014and really, DJ thought, it seemed crazy\u2014but everyone was either talking about the upcoming dance or complaining about finals. Kind of a dichotomy. But by the end of the week, DJ realized that a lot of the talk and excitement weren\u2019t only about the dance, but about what was happening \u201cafter the dance.\u201d <\/p>\n

It turned out\u2014big surprise here\u2014that some of the guys had rented some hotel suites in the same place where the Winter Ball was being held. And there was no mystery as to why they\u2019d done this. Oh, sure, DJ had overhead guys saying things like, \u201cWe just want to keep the party going,\u201d or \u201cwe need a place to just relax and hang.\u201d But DJ was pretty sure she knew what it was all about. And she mentioned this to Conner as they were going into the cafeteria for lunch on Friday.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m assuming that you had the good sense not to rent a room?\u201d<\/p>\n

He looked shocked then chuckled. \u201cWell, I\u2019m not a saint, DJ. But, no way! You know I would never do something like that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBesides being a waste of money, you\u2019d end up dancing by yourself at the Winter Ball.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTrust me, I know that.\u201d<\/p>\n

She laughed. \u201cWell, actually, I\u2019m sure there are plenty of girls who\u2019d want to dance with you, Conner. But I wouldn\u2019t be among them.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks.\u201d He grinned. \u201cI got that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo what\u2019s up with these guys?\u201d she said quietly since they were getting into the lunch line now. \u201cI mean like I even heard that Harry talked Josh Trundle into going in with them.\u201d I glanced to see if Kriti was around. \u201cAnd I just can\u2019t imagine that Kriti would go for that.\u201d
\u201cUnless Eliza talks her into it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood point.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I\u2019m sure you\u2019re aware that your roommate is on the guest list.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot that she\u2019s told me, but I assumed.\u201d DJ rolled her eyes as she picked up a tray. <\/p>\n

\u201cI heard that Garrison is in on it too. He and Seth reserved an adjoined suite.\u201d<\/p>\n

Now this surprised her. \u201cDoes Casey know?\u201d<\/p>\n

Conner shrugged as he reached for a burger. <\/p>\n

DJ sighed. \u201cI wish our friends would just act like normal teenagers.\u201d<\/p>\n

Conner laughed. \u201cWhat\u2019s that supposed to mean?\u201d<\/p>\n

DJ had to laugh too. \u201cI don\u2019t know\u2026I guess I just wish everyone wasn\u2019t so into playing grownups. Won\u2019t we get there soon enough?\u201d<\/p>\n

Unfortunately Madison Dormont overheard this. And she laughed so loudly that she snorted. Then she took off and DJ could only assume she ran to tell her friends. Not that DJ cared. Sometimes DJ wanted to shout her opinions from the rooftops. \u201cEverybody just chill!\u201d she would scream at the top of her lungs. \u201cYou don\u2019t have to drink alcohol or do drugs or have sex or break the rules to have fun in high school. News flash\u2014it usually turns out to be exactly the opposite!\u201d But DJ figured most kids wouldn\u2019t listen. Or if they were listening they\u2019d probably pretend like they weren\u2019t.<\/p>\n

Just the same, she decided to bring it up at Carter House. But not while her grandmother was listening. They were just finishing up dinner. Grandmother had excused herself\u2014she and the general were meeting for dessert, which was probably in the form of an after-dinner drink. DJ thought it was somewhat unusual that all six girls were still sitting around the table on a Friday night. But there hadn\u2019t been a basketball game, or anything else it seemed, to tempt anyone besides Grandmother out on a cold blustery evening in East Connecticut. And DJ supposed, because of the big night planned for tomorrow, everyone was taking it easy tonight.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo I hear some of the guys are planning an all-night party tomorrow,\u201d DJ mentioned casually.<\/p>\n

\u201cAre you coming?\u201d asked Eliza.<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, but no thanks.\u201d<\/p>\n

Eliza laughed. \u201cI didn\u2019t think so.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m curious as to how you explained this to my grandmother.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s that supposed to mean?\u201d she asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cNothing\u2026just that I\u2019m curious.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re not planning ratting on us, are you?\u201d<\/p>\n

DJ innocently held up her hands. <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not completely sure that I\u2019m going yet,\u201d said Kriti quickly.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood for you.\u201d DJ smiled at her.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d agreed Rhiannon. \u201cThat\u2019s the wise choice.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot that she\u2019s made up her mind,\u201d said Eliza with a cool smile.<\/p>\n

DJ turned to Casey now. \u201cSo how about you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re joining in the all night party?\u201d<\/p>\n

Casey shrugged. \u201cI told Garrison we could go up there for a while.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFor a while?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah\u2026what\u2019s wrong with that?\u201d
\u201cWhat do you think is wrong with that?\u201d<\/p>\n

She shrugged again. \u201cNothing. We\u2019ll just hang and party a while. Then I\u2019ll come home. No big deal.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd do you honestly think that\u2019s why the guys are shelling out the big bucks to rent these expensive suites?\u201d DJ asked her. \u201cJust to put your feet up and have a few laughs?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t think they expect anything in return?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, DJ, lighten up,\u201d said Eliza. \u201cMaybe we do just want to hang and have a few laughs. What is wrong with that?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong is that you know that\u2019s not what this is about, Eliza.\u201d<\/p>\n

Taylor, who had been silently watching had a very sly grin on her face, but she still didn\u2019t say anything. So DJ turned to her. \u201cTell them, Taylor. Why do you think the guys are renting hotel suites tomorrow night?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not?\u201d
\u201cSee,\u201d said Eliza. \u201cEven Taylor gets that it\u2019s no big deal. I don\u2019t see why you and Conner don\u2019t pop up to check on us if you don\u2019t believe it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, right.\u201d DJ glanced at Rhiannon for backup now.<\/p>\n

\u201cI have to side with DJ on this,\u201d she said firmly.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat a surprise,\u201d said Eliza. \u201cBut, really girls, if you\u2019re so sure that we\u2019ll be up there having some big orgy, why don\u2019t ya\u2019ll pay us a little visit?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe we will,\u201d DJ said hotly.<\/p>\n

Taylor laughed. \u201cYou will not.\u201d<\/p>\n

DJ sighed in resignation. \u201cProbably not.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf it makes you feel any better,\u201d began Casey, \u201cI\u2019ll lay my cards on the table with Garrison.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMeaning what?\u201d DJ challenged her.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll tell him that if he\u2019s asking me up there to have sex, then he\u2019s out of luck.\u201d<\/p>\n

DJ nodded. \u201cI can actually imagine you saying that,\u201d DJ told her. \u201cBut I wonder if Garrison will take you seriously?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s a good point,\u201d said Rhiannon. \u201cIt\u2019s like saying one thing and doing another.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLike you tell a guy no and then you follow him up to his hotel room,\u201d DJ added. \u201cWhat\u2019s that really saying?\u201d<\/p>\n

Casey seemed to consider this.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think Josh would understand,\u201d said Kriti quietly.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll admit that Josh seems like a mature kind of guy,\u201d DJ told her. \u201cBut he\u2019s a guy.\u201d
\u201cThat\u2019s right,\u201d said Rhiannon. \u201cI thought Bradford was more mature too\u2026\u201d She glanced at Taylor, as did everyone else. \u201cBut I\u2019ve been disappointed.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAll I\u2019m saying,\u201d DJ said to everyone except Rhiannon. \u201cIs that if you go up to the suite with your boyfriends, no matter what they say, they will want things to go further.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd, really,\u201d said Eliza in an exasperated tone, \u201cis that any of your business, DJ?\u201d She stood like she was leaving and Kriti stood, too, just like her puppet or puppy dog or lady in waiting.<\/p>\n

\u201cBecause we live under the same roof and because some of you are my friends\u2026yeah, I think it is.\u201d<\/p>\n

Taylor narrowed her eyes at DJ. \u201cSo what are you saying, DJ? Are you threatening to tell your grandmother? Because, if that\u2019s the case, I will have my alibi ready.\u201d <\/p>\n

\u201cSo will we,\u201d said Eliza. She was obviously speaking for Kriti too.<\/p>\n

Casey said nothing.<\/p>\n

\u201cAll I\u2019m saying is that I hope you all use good sense tomorrow night.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYour good sense?\u201d asked Taylor. \u201cOr our own?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhatever.\u201d DJ rolled her eyes, wondering why she\u2019d even bothered.<\/p>\n

\u201cNice try,\u201d said Rhiannon after the other four had left.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s the point?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think that\u2019s how God feels when he sends warnings to us?\u201d<\/p>\n

DJ sighed. \u201cI don\u2019t know\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, people have the right to make their own choices,\u201d Rhiannon reminded her, \u201cand their own mistakes.\u201d<\/p>\n

And, although DJ knew Rhiannon was right, she still wished there was something she could do. But sometimes the only thing to do was to pray. And maybe that wasn\u2019t such a small thing.<\/p><\/div>\n

My thoughts? I haven’t read this book yet BUT, I will soon and post a review. HOWEVER<\/strong><\/em> I can definitely speak about Melody Carlson as an author because I’ve read several of her books over the years! She’s wonderful! I’ve read her YA books and they were great! I can see a lot of young ladies really relating to the main characters in her stories…
Stay tuned for my review, also, be sure to look for this book in the future as a giveaway after I’ve officially reviewed it!<\/p>\n

~Cecelia Dowdy~<\/strong><\/em><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

It is time for a FIRST Wild Card Tour book review! If you wish to join the FIRST blog alliance, just click the button. We are a group of reviewers who tour Christian books. A Wild Card post includes a brief bio of the author and a full chapter from each book toured. The reason […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[48,16],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-729","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-ya-title","category-zondervan"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/paovYP-bL","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/ceceliadowdy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/729","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/ceceliadowdy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/ceceliadowdy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/ceceliadowdy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/ceceliadowdy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=729"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"http:\/\/ceceliadowdy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/729\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/ceceliadowdy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=729"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/ceceliadowdy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=729"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/ceceliadowdy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=729"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}