Page 158 of Introvert

Dad was all for that—so long as he could invite his brothers. He wanted to,and I quote, "give Felix the Kent family welcome."

I didn't know exactly what that meant.

Wasn't sure I wanted to.

I hadn't asked Felixyet, mostly because I didn't want him to be scared off (though I didn't think he would be) and I wanted to let him focus on his upcoming trip to Europe (which I knew he was). We texted and talked every day. Strangely, hewas the one who made me promise to keep the ritual going while he was out of the country.

He said he'd pay for any international fees, but he needed to hear my voice. To know I was out there thinking about him as much as he'd be thinking about me.

It was one of the most romantic things I'd ever heard.

I still couldn't believe he said it to me.

As I was leaving school, my phone pinged with a new text.

Felix:How'd your first day go?

I smiled then typed my reply.

Me:Good :).What are you doing?

Felix:Thinking of you. Obviously.

A shiver raced through me, which was crazy because he wasn't even here. All it took was one text, and I turned to mush.

Me:I hope you won't flirt with people in Europe like that. They'll never let you leave.

Felix:Doubting me already, princess?

Me:Never.

And I meant it. I wasn't worried about Felix cheating or forgetting about me while he was away. I knewmy thoughts would be with him the whole time.

Felix:I'll save all my flirting for you.

Me:Me too—though I'm awkward and not that good at it.

Felix:Seriously? You smile and I feel flirted with.

I shook my head, feeling my lips turn up.

Felix:Any after school plans?

Me:Go home, change into pjs, curl up under a blanket, read a book. Sleep.

Felix:Sounds fun.

I could practically hear him saying the words.

Me:Being alone is my idea of a good time, Felix.

Felix:Bet I could change your mind.

Me:Doubtful. But I'm listening.

I waited, wondering what he would say next, looking down at my phone. My smile widened as I saw those three dots appear, indicating that he wastyping. When the message finally came through, I tilted my head.

Felix:There's that smile I love.

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