The angry words followed him into the hallway and he almost burst out laughing.<br/><br/><i>Oh, oh, that was rich. That was a good one,</i>he thought, snickering to himself. As far as Adriel was concerned, they were roommates now. They split the rent and bills. He had every right to throw a party if he wanted. The owner of the flat had said she didn't care, so long as they paid on time, didn't trash the place or get noise complaints.<br/><br/>He ended up inviting all the tenants on their floor, just over twenty in total, though he only expected half that to show up.<br/><br/>Finding his way to the grocery store, Adri stocked up on party food like chips and dip, soda drinks, plates and bowls, cups and napkins, and of course, booze.<br/><br/>Ah, the wonders of Google. How to throw a good party and where to buy food.<br/><br/>By the time he was back, it was almost 7:30. He set about readying the place, turning on the stereo to some low-key music, food in bowls and punch, doctored up with a generous sprinkle of alcohol.<br/><br/>His target, Skyler, had been both home and happy to be invited to the party, and a thrill of excitement crawled up Adri's spine.<br/><br/>As the clock inched forward, he wondered if Ezekiel was home, calling his name out. "Hey, Zee, you around?"