Getting Ready for the Fireworks

"Uhm, I'll be right back," I said, trying to sound casual despite my growing unease, before quickly walking back inside the house. I felt a wave of embarrassment wash over me as I made my way back to my bedroom. I didn't want to go out there looking like a mess, especially not in front of Adrian. I quickly got ready, putting on some light blue jean shorts and a red tank top with a blue lace bra, the perfect 4th of July colors. I blow-dried my hair, trying to tame the tangles, and did some natural makeup, just a swipe of mascara and some lip balm. As I looked in the mirror, I couldn't help but feel insecure about my body. I wasn't skinny, but I wasn't big either. I was mid-size, with an hourglass figure, thick thighs, a big butt, and a small chest. I had always been self-conscious about my curves, but I was trying to learn to love them. I took a deep breath and let my shoulders relax, trying to shake off the doubts. I walked back outside, feeling a bit more confident, and made my way to the porch. Adrian and Carter were still sitting on the steps, but now they were joined by my other cousin Jake and his girlfriend Alaina. They were rolling a blunt, and the smell of weed wafted through the air. A thing about me was that even though I was turning eighteen and looked innocent, I wasn't the type to do anything wild, but I did smoke weed. It was a guilty pleasure I shared with my cousins, and I had to admit, I enjoyed it. As I approached the table, Jake looked up and grinned. "Hey, cuz! Looking fire today," he said, giving me a nod of approval. Alaina smiled and waved, and I returned the gesture. Adrian's eyes met mine, and I felt a flutter in my chest. I tried to play it cool, but I could feel my cheeks warming up. Carter stood up, the blunt still in Jake's hands. "We're just getting started," he said, offering me a seat. I sat down next to Adrian, trying not to touch him, but my arm brushed against his. He didn't move away, and I felt a spark of electricity run through my body. The conversation flowed easily, with Jake and Alaina chatting about their plans for the summer. Adrian was quiet, but his eyes kept meeting mine, and I could sense a connection between us. I was trying to play it cool, but I couldn't help but feel drawn to him. As we sat there, I couldn't help but notice the way Adrian's eyes crinkled at the corners when he smiled, or the way his hair curled slightly at the nape of his neck. I felt a pang of attraction, and I knew I had to be careful. I was still getting to know him, and I didn't want to get hurt. But for now, I just wanted to enjoy the moment, and the company of my cousins. The sun was shining, the music was playing, and the smell of burgers and hot dogs wafted through the air. It was going to be a great day, and I was excited to see what it had in store.