Page 13 of Swept Up In You

It was the best she’d felt since the break up—and surprisingly, because of Sam—who she couldn’t stop crossing paths with… or thinking about apparently. Their banter was light and easy, but also serious, which she didn’t expect. Although she enjoyed being able to offer some,hopefully, helpful advice. Her phone vibrated, Sam had already replied about the job.

Sam 9:28pm:

Book it in. When can you start?

Taylor 9:29pm:

Next Thurs morning suit? 9am?

Sam 9:30pm:

Yep! You can pick up the keys at the shop.

Dots appeared as she went to reply. Then disappeared. Then started up again.

Sam 9:32pm:

Also, thanks… for today.

Taylor smiled.

Taylor 9:33pm:

You’re welcome, anytime. Cya Thurs.

Yep. Today was a good day.

“What are you smiling at?” Jess asked, as she walked over to the lounge, mug of tea in hand. She carefully placed it on the coffee table and plonked herself across from Taylor, eyebrow raised.

“Just booked in another job.”

“Must be a good job.”

“It’s for Sam’s boat.”

“Ah,Nauti Samstrikes again.”

“Ha. Ha,” Taylor replied with an eye roll. “Yes,thatSam. Had a good chat with her this afternoon, actually. She seems cool, I think you’d like her.”

“Cool enough to invite to board game night?”

“A little random, but maybe… Why?”

“Marie texted earlier. Hayley’s now on babysitting duty for her nieces, so she’s out. Would be great to have enough numbers for a bigDice Thronebattle.”

“I mean, if you don’t think it’s odd asking some rando?”

“You’ve seen her enough times; I wouldn’t call her a stranger. Plus, making friends at our age is hard. We need all the new friends we can get.” Jess pouted, then sipped her tea and continued, “So I say if you think she’s cool, just invite her. Worst thing she can do is tell us no.”

“I’ll think about it.”

“A.K.A. you won’t do it.”

“No, I’ll think about it,” Taylor said, harder this time, running a hand through her hair. “I literallyjustbooked her in to work with her, so I don’t want to text straight after and ask to hang out. Who does that?”

“Fine.”

“Fine!”

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