Page 75 of Friends Don't Kiss

I want to say yes. I know I do. The more I look at his message, the less doubt in my mind. It’s in the palms of my hands, in the tightening of my heart, in the tingle spreading through my whole body.

My gaze skims higher on our text messages and stops where I asked him where he was last night. Jesus, does he realize what a needy bitch I’ll be if we get deeper into this dating thing? I can’t even help myself.

Nigel: If that’s okay with you

One taste of Colton, one evening as his date, and I’m totally gone. I want more.

I want his company as my friend, his attention as my date, his affection as my lover. It’s time I admit it. Even if heartbreak still feels inevitable, I’ll brace for the fall and that’s okay. He’ll be worth the pain.

Me: Sure, when?

Nigel: Any day that suits you

Me: Is this a whole day thing?

Nigel: Yup

A whole day?Are we going snowboarding again? That was fun, but… I have a shit ton of work to do. With the holidays—

Nigel: Can you?

Nigel: …

Me: My weekends are tied up with catering and shit

Nigel: I know. A Monday work for you?

A Monday? He wants to take a whole day off to spend time with me without impacting my business.

Me: What about the garage?

His answer comes right away, no hesitation:

Nigel: You come first

The words send a jolt through my whole body, a realization of how deep Colton’s feelings go, and how they’re wrapping themselves around me and pulling me in.

Me: Next Monday works

Nigel: I’ll pick you up at 10

I'm buzzing with anticipation.

Me: Where are we going?

Nigel: Surprise

Hmm. No snowboarding? What else could take a whole day?

Me: How should I dress?

Nigel: Like any day

Nigel: gtg. See you Monday

I heart his last message and look at the screen, rereading our messages, a silly smile taking residence on my lips, my cheeks hurting, my heartbeat accelerating.

My palms tingle with excitement. I need to tell someone, anyone. Willow? She’ll rub in my face how right she was. Grace? She’s Colton’s sister.

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