“It’s too late.” I glance at the time on my phone. “It’s almost two in the morning.”
“Doesn’t he work nights?”
Shit. That’s true. I told her that myself. “Fine.”
“Great.” She pats the top of my head like I’m an obedient dog. “I’ll stay up long enough to get those screenshots. I’m really excited I’ll get to say ‘told you so’ in about an hour.”
“Smug….” I can’t think of anything to add.
Kimmy turns and raises her arm to hit her key fob. “You sure you don’t want a ride home, Mattie?”
“Nah. The walk will do me good.” Besides, it’s less than two blocks away. Her lights flicker as her car beeps to life. I watch her get in and drive off. I use the time wisely and send off the first text to Alec.
Hey. How are you?
Thinking I’m not going to see a response until morning because he’s either busy or asleep, I’m a bit startled when my phone chimes.
Good. How are you?
Crap on a cracker. It’s begun.
I’m good. I just met up with a friend for a drink.
A friend?
Yeah.
What friend?
Weird question. Because I’m a glutton for punishment, I decide to play a little game. I’m not going to admit it to Kimmy, though. I’ve read enough romance novels to test my hypothesis.
An old one. Not old as in age, but one I’ve had for a very long time.
I quickly send off the one about Shep, letting him know that he’ll be placed tomorrow. Alec responds with,
That’s good news. Are you happy with the match?
Yes. They’re going to be great buddies.
I mean that.
So, are you going to see that friend again?
I giggle at the message because I’m a little giddy. Could Kimmy be right? I don’t bother responding to that question. Instead, I go with Kimmy’s suggestion.
You said you liked Texas. I’ve always wanted to visit.
Jeez, that sounded so very contrived.
There’s no response by the time I step up onto my front porch. When I’m in my room beneath my covers, still nothing. So I send Kimmy screenshots of each message and add,
He never replied to the one about Texas. I guess you’re wrong, smarty-pants.
I’m not wrong.
is her quick reply.
Smart move leaving my name out of the messages about the drink. He’s jealous.
