My Lainie: Oh.
Me: Why are you getting home so late?
My Lainie: I was at my dad’s. My sisters were there. We had dinner together.
Shit. Did she talk about me? I’m fucking dying to know.
Me: Good time?
My Lainie: Very. My family is awesome. ;)
Me: I’d like to meet them sometime.
Oh, shit. I did not just say that.
My Lainie: Really? Why?
Me: Because they’re your family. I want you to meet Molly and Madalyn.
My Lainie: That’s her baby’s name? I love that name.
Me:Yep. Baby Maddy. She’s gorgeous just like her mama. Hang on, I’ll send you a picture.
I search my photos to find a picture of me holding the baby the day she was born.
My Lainie: OMG! She’s so cute. You look good holding her too.
Fuck yes.
Me: I’m a natural. ;) The ladies love me.
My Lainie: LOL
Me: What? You don’t agree? You wound me.
My Lainie: Oh, no. I didn’t mean to laugh at that. I thought you were just being funny. I’m so sorry, Keeton. I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings.
My Lainie: Shoot. I should go. Have a good night.
Me: NO! Fuck, I WAS kidding. It’s hard to tell when you’re texting. Can I call you? Then you’ll hear my voice and know when I’m teasing.
My Lainie: …
Me: Please?
I’m fucking begging now. It’s over. I’m officially pussy-whipped and I haven’t even gotten a taste yet. She doesn’t respond. I’m nearly beside myself when my phone vibrates in my hand. “Hello?”
“Hi, Keeton.”
“Lainie,” I say almost breathlessly. “Thanks for calling.”
She laughs softly. A tinkling laugh. “Sure thing.”
“So, are you calling to tell me you’ll help me out at the shop?”
“Um, yes. I’ll help you. When do you want me to start?”
“Tomorrow, first thing, if you can.”
