Not quite as good as you.
A picture of a glass of Tang in his hand appears. He’s in hisapartment, and the book I suggested in our group chat a couple of weeks ago is open in his lap.
Tally
Shouldn’t you be out indulging in a double chocolate fudge cake with your teammates?
Flip
I considered it, but this book was calling me.
He’s texting me unprovoked for the third time this week. He’s home and reading the book I recommended. Is he trying to smooth things over and make things less awkward because I’m joining the group for New Year’s? I’m working up the nerve to ask. But for now, I try to reclaim some of the easiness of our previous messages.
Tally
The nice thing about books is that they’ll still be there, waiting for your eyes until after you finish dessert.
Flip
True. But I’m invested. I need to know what happens.
I click on the photo he sent and magnify the image so I can see where he is in the story.
Tally
Oh! You’re so far already! No wonder you passed up dessert. You’re almost at my favorite part.
Flip
You want to tell me what that is?
Tally
And ruin the surprise? I wouldnever.
Flip
Is it in this chapter?
Tally
No, but it’s coming. That’s the only hint you get. Otherwise I’ll ruin it.
Flip
Hmm. Good point. I’ll be back in a bit with my guesses.
Tally
Don’t stay up too late.
Flip
No promises.
I’m smiling as I shower and get ready for bed. Parsnip is lying on my body pillow, concealed by my comforter. He meows his annoyance and tries to bite my hand when I pull the sheets back.
“Hi, Flip. Ready for bed?” I barely resist the urge to lean down and kiss his two-dimensional lips. I’ve had a Flip Madden body pillow since my first year of university. Cammie got it for me as a joke, but I sleep with it every night.
