Chapter 20

"I'm going to a classmate's birthday party, so it might not be convenient," Vanessa answered truthfully. "OK. No drinking. I'll come get you later," Leander said like he was giving orders instead of making a suggestion. Vanessa rolled her eyes but didn't argue. She showed up late on purpose. The private room was already packed. Just like Xander said, the people Samantha hung out with were all decked out in heavy makeup and weird styles-clearly up to no good. So when Vanessa walked in wearing a princess-style dress with no makeup, looking fresh and graceful, she instantly became the center of attention. A few guys even let out low whistles, their eyes filled with amazement and not-so-subtle desire. Samantha was hanging on the arm of a pretty boy, giggling, but the moment she spotted Vanessa, she jumped up and dragged her over to sit down. Xander, with his usual edgy look, didn't seem out of place here at all. The room was filled with thick cigarette smoke. The guys were cracking open bo