That’s a lie. You used a period. You never use periods unless you’re lying.
Chloe
I’m FINE. The cupcakes look great. The games are set up. Even the bartenders are set up. Everything is great.
Jessa
So he hasn’t texted…
And there it is.
The question I’ve been avoiding all day.
No.
Brody hasn’t texted.
Well, that’s not entirely true. He texted exactly three times this week. Each one shorter than the last.
Monday: Dad’s doing better. Thanks for asking.
Wednesday: Practice has been intense. Talk soon.
Friday: Should I pick you up tomorrow? 6 p.m.?
And I said no.
I don’t even know why. Pride, maybe. Or self-preservation. After our near kiss, I’m not sure I can be trusted alone with him.
Maya’s giving me a ride. See you there.
His response: Okay.
One word.
That was it.
No “Are you sure?” No “I don’t mind picking you up.” No attempt to push back or insist or act like he wanted to see me before the party.
Just:Okay.
Cool.
So lucky me got to ride with Maya, who spent the entire drive lecturing me about needing a car.
“You can’t keep relying on Uber and the kindness of friends,” she said, merging onto the highway with the confidence of someone who’s never had to check her bank account before filling up with gas. “If you’re going to be a professional event planner, you need reliable transportation.”
“I know. I’m working on it.”
“Are you though? Because you’ve been saying that for the last year.”
“I paid off three months of rent and made a massive loan payment. The car fund is next on the list.”
She glanced at me. Surprised. “Really?” Another glance, a flash of confusion. “That’s amazing. Business must be picking up.”
“Something like that.”
Lie.
