Page 12 of Scattered Glitter

Can’t. Promised Rosie I’d stay in. First week of school and all that.

I glance over at Rosalee, who’s completely engrossed in her magazine. Her lips are moving slightly, probably mouthing the words to some article about glitter eyeliner.

The phone vibrates in my hand, and I swipe the notification open immediately.

Wow. You’re… responsible. Didn’t see that coming.

I roll my eyes, but my lips twitch.

Better than you, skipping school entirely to do, what, by the way? Petty theft? Or just look pretty in a leather jacket?

His reply is almost instant as if he’s been waiting for the chance to spar.

First of all, I don’t need to try to look pretty. It’s natural. Second, if you’re gonna insult me, at least do it with some creativity.

Fine. You’re an egotistical asshole with a knack for getting his phone stolen by amateurs.

The three dots appear, then vanish, then appear again, and I bite my lip, waiting.

I got my phone back and swiped yours in the process. Don’t think that’s how ‘winning’ works, Trouble.

A flush creeps up my neck, and I huff.

Stealing a phone is child’s play. Even toddlers can do it. Try something harder.

His response takes a little longer this time, and when it comes, it’s accompanied by a photo. It shows a gold Rolex on his wrist.

How’s this for harder?

My mouth drops open slightly. I don’t know a lot aboutwatches, but even I know that’s rich-people stuff. Definitely not something you just pick up at a garage party.

Where the hell did you get that?

Good work gets good rewards.

I let out a laugh, shaking my head.

You’re insufferable.

You’re intrigued.

He’s not wrong. Each message, each little quip feels like a tiny jolt of adrenaline.

Congrats. You can steal from people who are already too rich for their own good. What do you want, a medal?

Nah. I’ll settle for your undivided attention.

How does he manage to say stuff like that without sounding cheesy?

You’re full of shit.

And you’re deflecting. Don’t worry, though. Someday I’ll teach you how to earn one of these for yourself.

I snort.

Gee, thanks.

Stick with me, and you’ll be able to take whatever you want from whoever you want.

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