Page 43 of Rebel Summer

I heard Dax arrive at his apartment next door later that night. If I hadn’t noticed his door slam shut, or the opening and closing of his refrigerator, or the shower turning on, the blatant knocking against my wall would have eventually garnered my attention.

A moment later, I received a text.

DAX

Everything good?

ME

Great. It’s hard to stay annoyed with you when you leave me a welcome basket.

DAX

You probably would have stolen that stuff from me anyway.

ME

Thank you, Dax. I appreciate you letting me stay.

DAX

Sure. What did your dad say?

ME

Um

DAX

You didn’t tell him you were here?

ME

He might possibly think I’m staying at Cat’s house.

DAX

Why didn’t you just stay there?

ME

I didn’t want to impose.

DAX

Interesting. I feel very imposed upon.

ME

You don’t count. This is a business deal. I’m paying with hours.

DAX

Whatever helps you sleep at night.

Me

I think I’ll sleep great.

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