18

“Barbie,” Mel tried to walk up to me but ungraciously fell back on her seat. Her olive cheeks are painted with a crimson shade, evincing the effect of alcohol in her system. “Your turn to drink…” she motioned to the set of various drinks in shot glasses above the table.

“Oh no. I’m not getting wasted like you,” I shake my head vigorously, seeing stars and comets above my head.

“Don’t be such a pooper, Barbie,” Mel slurred, fumbling over each syllable she muttered. That resulted in rumbling laughter and I shook my head at my friend’s tipsiness, taking my seat beside Jake. my boyfriend’s protective arms wrapped around me instantly.

“Fine,” I said, and Jack was ready to set the timer while Matt was ready to record everything on camera. “This is going to suck,” I muttered before chugging one drink at a time. Wincing with each burn of the alcohol down my throat. I s