Page 124 of Jep

“What? Nothing. I told you, he’s gone back home. The end.”

“Does that make you sad?”

“Why would it?”

“Because he’s a good guy. Perfect for you. He knows you better than anyone else, but he’s not a Christian. You did what’s best, but it’s okay to be bummed.”

“Actually…”

When Em didn’t continue, Carla yanked her around so they were facing each other. “Actually, what?”

“Apparently…he is a Christian.”

“Hold the phone, what? You mean like a real Christian?”

“Is there another kind?”

“There’s weird ones.”

“He’s not weird.”

“Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Since when do you need to know everything about this guy?”

“Since you’re really into him. What’s going on? He’s got the whole package. What happened? Did he come out and say he had absolutely no interest in you romantically?”

“No. He…” She was trying to choose her words carefully, but there was no careful about it. “I think there was something.”

“What?”

“We almost kissed. Thinking back, it was probably more than once.”

“What?” Carla threw her hands in the air and marched in a dramatic circle. “I can’t believe I’m only just now hearing about this. When did this happen?”

“We were at your place and?—”

“Whoa, whoa, whoa. Not only did he try to kiss you, but it happened at my place? Where was I?”

“Out.”

“And why in God’s name did it not happen? And I can say that because I’m pretty sure God’s in favor of you two.”

“You don’t know that.”

“It’s a pretty good guess. So what’s the deal?”

Em started walking again. What answer could she give?

“He’s not your colleague anymore,” Carla said when she caught up. “Why are we even having this conversation? Why aren’t you with him right now? What are you doing?”

“I don’t know. Leave me alone.” Em picked up the pace.

“No way. Not on this. You’ve spent your whole life hesitating, and you’re finally getting some confidence, so what’s the problem? Are you scared?”

“Why would I be scared?”

“I don’t know. You tell me.”

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