Page 57 of Close

“Actually, the opposite. I think that’s the first time I overslept.”

“The first time? Was there a certain someone who helped you sleep better?”

I fumble with my pen.

“Wait. I’m right, aren’t I?” She regards me fully. “Details. Now.”

“There’s nothing to tell. We just talked.”

“Just talked.” Gemma makes air quotes with her fingers.

I sink further into my seat. “Yes.”

“Good for you.” She nudges me. “Who is he?”

“It’s pretty new.” I shouldn’t tell anybody about it since we’re not official.

When is it official? I mean, is it common sense or… How would such a conversation go?

My phone lights up with a message, and I grab it before Gemma can peek.

Sebastian: Lunch today? I want to see you before the game.

I’m already meeting Gemma and Mary for lunch. I chew my lip and glance over to her. She’s watching me with a grin.

“Well?” she says. “Aren’t you going to answer him?”

“He asked to meet for lunch.”

“Why not say yes?”

My thumbs hover over the keyboard as I debate how to respond.

“I can’t.” I set my phone face down on the desk. “We already made plans to have lunch with Mary.”

Gemma’s eyes light up. “Invite him along.”

I fiddle with the end of my ponytail. “I don’t know if that’s a good idea. Wouldn’t it be weird?”

“It’s just lunch. We won’t embarrass you too much.”

Sebastian sitting at a table with my friends? “It’s too soon.”

“Don’t leave the poor guy hanging.”

I glance back at my dark phone screen, debating.

“Don’t overthink it,” Gemma says.

Maybe she’s right. I am overthinking this. It’s not like we’re officially dating or anything, right? I don’t even know where we stand. I don’t want to mess this up before it really begins, whatever ‘this’ even is.

Gemma giggles. “You should see your face right now.”

I force a small laugh, rubbing my neck. “Yeah, I guess I am overthinking it.”

Lil: Already have plans with friends for lunch today. You could join us if you want. Let me know.

Sebastian: Friends, huh? Jason?

---