Page 57 of On the Edge

no dates

Sighing, I rub a hand over my face. I should have known he’d be too clever for that. I should have waited and asked him in person. He’s easier to convince when I can smile at him and ply him with my accent. He pretends not to like it, but I know that he does.

Henri

Just one will not hurt, yes?

Atlas

what restaurant

Henri

Your choice, of course.

Atlas

seafood?

Henri

Shall I pick you up in an hour?

Atlas

k

not a date tho

Smiling, I put my phone down and replace all my school things where they belong. I’m already showered, so there’s nothing to do but change clothes and wait. I text Carter while I do so, asking if he has any recommendations for good seafood restaurants locally. Carter loves taking Zeke out to dinner. He’ll know all the good spots.

Carter

You could go to the one we went to together. The Pearl. Or, if you don’t mind a drive, you could try Maiden Catch. I’ll send you the location. It’s on the water. Low-key. You can sit outside on the deck. Zeke said he’d eat there every day if he could.

Henri

That is perfect, thank you. My brother is wanting me to have fun.

Carter

Are you going alone? Ask Zeke to go with you. I’m in fucking Indiana.

Henri

I am going with Atlas, my friend from communications class. He likes seafood.

Carter

Wait a second, Zeke told me that guy was a dick. Fuck that guy.

Henri

Oh no, he is not so bad. And yes, I think I will.

Carter

I can’t believe you just made that joke.

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