Page 32 of Past Present Future

“Hello? Who’s out there?” a gruff voice calls.

“Shit. Cops.” Sierra shoves the wine into a bag while Tegan rushes to collect the cups.

We’ve been caught.

“Because I’d really hate to find some alcohol in possession of anyone who isn’t twenty-one,” the voice continues.

A shriek, and then someone yells out, “Run!”

We thunderbolt into the night, feet pounding the grass and then the pavement, no pausing to catch our breaths. We don’t stop running until we’re safely in the lobby of our dorm, where all Kait and I have to do is look at each other before we burst into laughter.

If I was ever uncertain before, now I’m positive: this is where I belong.

NEIL

Are you alone right now?

ROWAN

my roommate is never here, so yes. starting to think she might be a 30-year-old masquerading as a student to bust an underground drug ring a la channing tatum in 21 jump street

(no, I haven’t seen the original due to a distinct lack of channing tatum)

NEIL

I am too.

(alone, that is, not a 30-year-old etc etc)

I had this idea… that maybe you could describe your current wardrobe for me?

ROWAN

is that the Neil McNair version of “what are you wearing?”

NEIL

Am I that obvious?

ROWAN

maybe a little, but I kind of love it.

in fact… I could use a bit of a study break

10

NEIL

I’M ALREADY BLUSHING as I lean back against the pillow, phone lighting up in my hand. When I got back to my dorm after dinner and Skyler was out, I saw an opportunity. Territory other long-distance couples have surely charted many, many times before.

I’ve made sure the temperature in the room isn’t too warm or too cold, double-checked the locked door, and tidied my desk. I am not sure how, precisely, one prepares for a sexting date with one’s girlfriend, but this seems to be as good a place to start as any.

As though I need a reason to love her more, she’s immediately on board with the idea.

Neil: What if… you sent me a picture?

Then I add, Only if you want to, still not entirely sure how to navigate this.

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