“Uh—what?”
“I’m sick,” she says, “not dead. And you’re glowing.”
“I’m not glowing,” I protest.
“You’re glowing.”
She squints at me. “And you only glow when you like a girl.”
I rub the back of my neck.
“There’s…someone. Kind of. But it’s complicated.”
“All the best ones are,” she says, nodding knowingly.
I smile despite myself, and she pats my hand.
“I don’t care if she’s older or younger or sideways or whatever. I just want you to be happy, Colt.”
My heart tightens.
Before I can respond, my phone buzzes.
Elena: So…what are you doing tonight lol
Blood drains, then rushes back all at once.
Mom lifts an eyebrow. “That her?”
I swallow. “Maybe.”
The bubbles pop up again.
Elena: Hi. You didn’t answer…Do you have any dates tonight?
A laugh escapes me.
Colt: Do YOU?
Her reply comes fast.
Elena: Like I’m going to be able to see anyone right now. After I just got my insides rearranged. I’m actually having trouble walking. And it’s not from workout soreness :)
My stomach flips.
Mom is watching me like a hawk.
“Colt.”
“Hm?”
“If that’s the woman making you glow…”
She points at my phone.
“Don’t be an idiot.”
I nod… slowly.
