“No.”
“See!” I step awayfrom the wall feeling rejuvenated. Why is the topic of equality hard for men to figure out?
This time Cyrus crosses his arms on the defense. “I wouldn’t step up and comment for one of my male counterparts because I’m not in love with one of them.”
My nose crinkles. Why would Cyrus be in love with one of the guys on his team? There’s silent between us for seconds as I work to puzzle it out.
“Take your time on that one, Charlie.” He nods his head like he can see the wheels turning in my brain.
“Are you saying you love me? That’s why you did it?”
Cyrus slaps his forehead with the base of his palm. “Are you the only person on the planet who can’t see it?”
“Of course you love me. We’re best friends. It’s a requirement.”
Cyrus rolls his eyes. “No, Charlie. My best friend is Joe.” Hementions a guy on the speed skating team. They do hang out often. “You are so much more than a best friend to me.”
I’m stunned. My mouth opens but no words are exiting. “Joe is your best friend? I thought we were best friends.”
Cyrus’ face falls, becoming pinched in pain. “I don’t know how you can’t see it. The only explanation is you don’t feel anything for me. All this time I’ve sat aroundand waited for you to notice me and I get nothing.”
“What do you mean you sat around and waited for me?” He’s had a ton of girlfriends.
“You are blind. I give up.” He storms across the hallway, passing me but not sparing me a second glance as his outstretched arms hit the stairwell exit door pushing it forward.
He starts down the stairwell and I follow, standing at the top step with the dooropen behind me.
“Cyrus!” I yell, but he doesn’t stop.
