The Volkswagen Beetle pulled into Sara's driveway.

Erin and Pam jumped out of the car.

"Charlie's here!" Erin sang, jogging up to them. She wore a stretchy green sweater and black leggings.

"Ugh, it's AARON with two A's," Charles said, taking a verbal swipe at her. He hated it when she called him Charlie.

Pam played with the hem of her purple dress. She had a small purse draped loosely over her arm. "Hi, Charles," Pam said. She blushed slightly.

Ever since they were kids, Sara always knew Pam had a crush on Charles. Most girls probably did. Her brother was gorgeous. Although Erin didn't seem fazed by Charles. She treated him 'like a brother from another mother.'

"Pamela! My favorite Sara friend!" He took Pam's elbow and made her give him a side hug. "Still as pretty as ever, Pamela!"

She giggled, blushing fiercely.

"You still shy and single? I've got about a dozen hot bros at Yale I can introduce you to," Charles said.

She pulled away from him, looking down at the sidewalk. "I'm seeing someone now, actually. His name is Patrick. In fact, he should be getting here at some point soon."

Charles poked Sara in the side again, holding her tightly over his shoulder. "Did you hear that, Buttercup? Our little Pamela has a boyfriend!" He started to whistle. "Has Patrick tried any of the dirty-dirty on you, yet?"

"Let's PLEASE change the subject, Charlie," Erin said. "How about you put Sara down now, huh?" She glared at him. "Come on. Be a good big brother."

Charles raised his eyes to the sky. "Hm. I'll think about it. Buttercup, here, is my prisoner!"

Sara growled under her breath in Charles's ear. "You're unbelievable!"

"I know," he said. He spun around and started to walk Trash back towards the house. He still wouldn't release Sara.

"How long has Charles been carrying you, Sara?" Pam asked. She took in Charles's strong arms. "It's really quite impressive."

"Why thank you, Pamela," Charles said.

Sara put her hands under her chin, resting her elbows on her brother's shoulder. "He hasn't been carrying me for that long. Anyway, he's just showing off!"

Charles ignored the comment. He had a huge ego. "So, ladies...tell me. What's been happening while I've been aw--"

Charles's voice trailed off.

Sara was facing the other way so she couldn't see what had distracted him.

"Either I'm a stupid idiot, or there's a freaking million dollar car in our driveway!" He didn't seem to realize he was squeezing Sara's back with his arm.

"Ow, you're hurting me, Charles!" Sara snapped. She suddenly froze.

Million dollar car? In the driveway? That could only mean one thing!

"Duuuude whose car is that?" Charles exclaimed, ignoring her.

"Not so loud, you Moron!" Erin said. She tried to cover Charles's mouth with her hands, but he waved her away.

Charles focused back on the car. He walked, trance-like, towards it. He placed a timid finger on its hood. "Oh my kings of glory. This car wonder is REALLY here."

Sara could feel herself shaking.

No way he was here. He couldn't POSSIBLY KNOW it was her birthday. Unless...

Sara twisted around on Charles's shoulder. She pointed a finger at Erin. "Did you blab about my birthday? No one was supposed to know."

Erin smiled. "I have no idea what you're talking about. I only mentioned it to Trevor. Alas, I'm pretty sure he was out jogging with the soccer team early this morning. OOPS!"