I stare at my phone, at her last text from a year ago, then mine from earlier today.
Nobody’s responding to anyone.
She hasn’t even opened it.
I went to the gym after I sent the message. I paced. I worked out. I ran on the treadmill. I sat in the sauna.
None of it helped.
Now I’m back home, staring at this damn phone.
I look down again.
She’s read it.
I hold my breath, waiting to see the bubbles pop up. Waiting to see what she has to say, if she says anything at all.
A minute goes by.
Then another.
Then another.
Nothing.
I set my phone down and go downstairs to the kitchen. Grab a bottle of water. Walk back up the stairs slowly.
Did I ask for too much? Maybe I shouldn’t have asked her out again. I should’ve just said what I had to say and left it there.
My phone stays quiet.I look at it anyway.
If she doesn’t want to see me again...
I drag a hand over my face and don’t even let myself finish that thought.
Another five minutes goes by, then I can see that she’s typing a reply. My heart starts pounding in my ears.
Lily: I’m free tomorrow evening.
I exhale, fast.
Me: You don’t have Lit with Lily?
Lily: I just said I’m free...
Damn.
Me: My bad...I’ll pick you up at 6.
I set my phone down with a smile until another notification comes through.
Lily: What do I wear?
I freeze.
Me: Something beautiful.
I stare at my phone.
