Was that what this was about She wanted to find me a boyfriend so Dylan would leave me alone “I don’t date.”

Ava’s mouth dropped open. “Really”

“Really.”

“Why not”

I shrugged and glanced at James, who seemed to be determined not to look at Ava as he built an elaborate teepee made of fries. He wasn’t going to be any help.

“Listen,” said Ava, dropping her fake act. “It’s just a party. Once everyone meets you, they’ll stop staring at you. It’s no big deal. Just an hour or whatever, and then you won’t have to do it again. I’ll even help you with hair and makeup and stuff—you can borrow one of my dresses, if they’re not too small.”

Did she even realize she’d just insulted me I tried to refuse, but she kept going.

“Please,” she said, her voice cracking with sincerity. “Don’t make me beg. I know it’s probably not what you’re used to in New York, but it’ll be fun, I promise.”

I eyed her as she gave me a helpless, pleading look.