Page 91 of Crossed Sticks

“You do. There’s no other choice.”

“From a psych ward?”

“Luca Moretti, you are a grade-A knucklehead. I’d bet a week’s salary Harper loves you. He’ll want you to take care of yourself and get better.”

“Even—”

“You love Harper, so give him a fucking chance. Call him, say you love him, and get ready to have all the support you need.”

There was nothing more to say because Adam was right. I wasn’t ready to leave the hospital, which meant I’d have to confess my feelings over FaceTime. But before that, I had to break the ice, so I spent a while writing a message. It was almost midnight when I finally sent it. Harp was probably asleep, but I hoped he’d see the text as soon as he woke up.

LUCA: I was thrilled to get your messages. Sorry it’s taken me so long to answer, but I’ll explain. I DON’T want to break up with you. I never did, and I hope you feel the same. I have some important things to tell you, so can we still talk? Please say yes. I know you’re busy, but I’ll do it any time that works for you.

I put my phone on the bedside table and tried to relax. To my surprise, it buzzed a minute later.

HARPER: I’m so fucking happy to hear from you! I definitely want to talk, but I can’t right now. Would tomorrow morning work? About 9:30? I’ll FaceTime if that’s okay.

I said a silent prayer of thanks.

LUCA: I can’t wait to hear your voice, and 9:30 will be perfect. I’ll be waiting.

I got up early and looked at my phone first thing. When I read last night’s messages with Harp again, my mind started racing. I was nervous about using the L word, and I hoped he’d react well. Of course, I hoped he felt the same way, but I’d have to wait and see. If he didn’t love me yet, I wouldn’t give up. As long as we could see each other, I’d work hard to win him over. For now, I sent him another message.

LUCA: I’m really excited about talking. I’ll be waiting at 9:30. <3

I needed to shower so I’d look my best, and I was getting my hospital toiletries out of a drawer when the phone chirped.

HARPER: Me too. TTYS. <3

I’d been afraid sending the heart emoji might be pushing it, but apparently not. Surely, he wouldn’t have sent one back if he didn’t mean it. To make certain I wouldn’t be wearing scrubs when he called, I texted Caleb.

LUCA: Hey. Harper’s going to FaceTime me at 9:30. Can you believe it? I really want to look nice for him, so please don’t forget to bring the clothes I asked for. You’re still coming at 9, right? I need time to get dressed.

CALEB: That’s awesome, Luki. I promise to be there right on time, and I’ll bring everything you need. Try to relax.

After my shower, I ate breakfast and waited for Caleb. He arrived on time, and after laying my clothes across a chair, he held his arms out for a hug. When we let go, he grinned. “Are you excited?”

I nodded. “Nervous though.”

“You’re going to tell him you love him, right?”

“Yes.” A rush of anxiety made me dizzy. “I hope he takes it well.”

“He will, but right now, you need to get dressed. Go get changed, and text me when you’re ready for me to do your hair.”

“You bet.” I’d always been confident in my fashion sense, but I’d never been able to do much for my hair. Caleb started helping me with it when we were in school.

He’d brought exactly what I asked for: white shorts, a navy blue T-shirt, and a light blue shirt to wear on top. I’d worn the same outfit when I took Harper on our first official date,something I hoped he’d remember. After I put everything on and inspected myself in the mirror, I texted Caleb to come in. He had a small shopping bag, and I asked what was in it.

“Essentials.” He removed them one at a time and held them up so I could see. “Hair paste. Cologne.”

“I’m glad you thought of the hair paste, but why do I need cologne for a phone call?”

“Self-confidence.” With a conspiratorial grin, he turned me toward the mirror and ran his fingers through my hair. “We feel better about ourselves when we smell good.”

“What made you pick that one?”

He answered while working the paste into my hair. “You’ve worn it for a long time, so you must like it. I’ve always thought it smelled terrific on you.”

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