“Lacey, you there? I can’t see you.”

“Oh shit. Yeah. I’m here. Can you hear me?”

“Lacey?” The video freezes and his voice sounds muffled.

“Colt?” The line drops.Fuck.

Colt: Sorry I’m out with friends. I’ll call you soon. Promise.

Lacey: Have fun!

I throw my phone down on the mattress and pick up my e-reader again. My phone pings again and I swipe up fully expecting to see a message from my brother. My heart stops when I see Jace’s name instead.

Jace: Tell me something I don’t know about you.

Lacey: Why?

Jace: We’ve got ten years to catch up on. Humor me.

Lacey: I like to dip my fries in chocolate ice cream.

Jace: Why didn’t you say anything earlier? I think we had some chocolate ice cream in the freezer.

Lacey: LOL! You should try it.

Jace: Hold on.

A few minutes pass, and then three dots appear on the screen.

Jace: We had some! You’re right. Chocolate ice cream is definitely a top tier dip option.

Lacey: No way you’re eating fries in chocolate ice cream right now.

Jace: >

Jace: We didn’t finish off the fries, so I had to try it for myself.

Lacey: I’m glad you like it!

Jace: Maybe we could grab some together sometime.

My heart starts to race when I read his text.Together.I’m trying to think of a response when three dots appear again.

Jace: I meant as friends. You know, just to catch up.

Friends.My heart deflates. Of course that’s what he meant. I should be thankful he even wants to be my friend. I definitely don’t deserve it.

Lacey: I’d like that!

Jace: Me too.

CHAPTER 19: THE BOYS ARE BACK

JACE

Poppy: I’m sorry. Will you ever forgive me?

Jace: Thank you and yes, I forgive you.