Her

Xavier

"Son, look who it is!" Mother excitedly pulls me to her side.

Oh, for goodness sake!

"Riley." I internally roll my eyes.

"Whats this? Aren't you two excited to see each other?" Auntie Jasmine asks.

We both just stare at each other, not saying a word.

"Riley, come on!" Auntie Jasmine tries to persuade her daughter.

"Ma, you know we're too old for hugs." She complains while looking at her Dad to help her out.

"She's right, honey. I'm sure the two of them are very happy to see each other again after what..." Uncle Vincent chimes in.

"5 whole years!" Mother chirps in.

Has it already been that long?

"Anyways, I see you're doing good for yourself...." Riley clears her throat as she tries getting her words together. "Congratulations. You're really impressive, Xavi."

"Thank you." I reciprocate her tight-lipped smile.

"I wonder why they're so awkward." Mother whispers to Auntie Jasmine as the both of them leave to catch up with their other friends. Our Dad's also leave.

Riley and I are left to just stare uncomfortably into each other's eyes. It's very evident that she's not enjoying my company just as much as I am.

Riley takes a glass of champagne from the waiter passing around and takes a sip.

I scoff.

She rolls her eyes.

Fortunately for me, Auntie Jasmine comes and takes Riley away.

"Riley, come. I need to introduce you to someone."

I could care less. I'm just glad I don't have to look at her. I join Sean and the others as they talk about anything and everything. I can finally breathe.

In my efforts to look around the party, my eyes chose to specifically land on her. Just great.

I know Riley, and she doesn't seem to be doing too well. I guess it's time to go home.