Cali Boys by Kelli London Page A

Jacobi, you look different today,” Shooby complimented, or at least she thought he did. But she couldn’t be sure he liked her look. She’d never seen him with a girlfriend, so she had nothing to compare herself to.
    â€œTrying something new,” she said, unsure of how to answer. She’d let Alissa paint her face and curl her hair, and it made her feel so good about herself inside, her feelings radiated out. Now, from her bright, new perspective, everything seemed perfect. She only hoped he liked her, too. “About the text I sent you ...” she began, then bit her lip, thinking how to proceed and trying to keep still. “I think it’d be a good idea to document what we’re doing.”
    â€œUh-huh. Stay still,” he said. “I don’t want to pull your hair out.”
    Jacobi froze, remembering why she was standing between his legs. Something was stuck in her hair, and he was getting it out.
    â€œGot it,” he said, pulling the object out along with some of her hair. “It’s a piece of candy. Looks like a piece of a lollipop.”
    Alissa . “Ow, that hurt.” Jacobi turned, looking him in the eye. She stood less than a foot from him, and didn’t want to move.
    â€œSo, what were you saying? You want to film me?” He laughed coolly. Flirtatiously.
    Jacobi nodded. “And I want to bring someone into the crew. My new friend, Alissa. She can help me if you don’t want her to be a part of the new mob. I tried to call Katydid to see if she’d mind, but she didn’t answer her phone. So I guess it’s up to you, right?”
    Before she knew it, Shooby’s lips were pressed against her forehead. She closed her eyes, giving in to the moment. He’d never before kissed her or shown the slightest interest—not like this. And though it wasn’t a real bona-fide kiss like a boyfriend would give a girlfriend, she’d take whatever affection he offered. A smile stretched her lips wide, and she relaxed her neck, leaning into him, hoping he’d wrap his arms around her. But no-go. Just like that, it was over. His mouth disconnected from her face.
    â€œI knew you were good for me. Look at you, Jacobi ... bringing someone in. It’s cool. Both ideas: filming me and a new flash mobber. As a matter of fact, I was sorta thinking the same thing, just with a different twist.”
    Her head tilted in curiosity.
    â€œThat’s what I wanted to talk to you about. I want to do a thing sorta like they did on MTV back in the day. You know, the confession booth. I wanted to do that either before or after the flash mobs. I’m putting it together to help our community— our people. You know, us versus the Man?”
    Jacobi just nodded. She really had no idea what man he was talking about, but she’d listen. She’d do whatever it took to get his attention, and she’d act interested as long as it meant one-on-one time for them.
    â€œYou know, Shooby. There is this other thing I wanted to ask you about, but it wouldn’t involve the flash-mob crew ... just you. Well, you and me.”
    He nodded. “I’m listening, baby.”
    â€œWell, I’ve been invited up the coast to a party. A beach-house party for grown-ups. I was thinking of filming the get-together and having some fun, too. And I’ve already cleared it with my parents, who won’t be there, by the way. Think you’d be interested?” She crossed her arms, waiting for disappointment.
    Shooby stared into her eyes and licked his lips. A faint smile spread on his face as he looked her up and down like she was the best thing he’d seen in a long time. Suddenly, his palms were on her cheeks, holding her still. “You’re wonderful, Jacobi. I’m glad you’re on my team. So glad,” he said, then pulled her face to his and gently kissed her.
    â€œ ’Ey, Shooby-dooby-doo,” one of the flash-mob crew