Page 118 of Changing Rules

Bella:

Watching anime And of course! He’s the best!

Then she sendsa picture of Milo on the couch with his head in her lap. When I see it, I’m assaulted by memory after memory. The scene is so familiar. A year apart, and nothing has changed. My dog and his favorite human.

Me:

He will never change

Bella:

I hope he doesn’t! I love him just the way he is

It’s tempting to ask her if she loves me just the way I am, but that would be a direct route to getting blocked again. So, I settle for a safer option.

Me:

What are you watching?

Bella:

Violet Evergarden. On Netflix

Me:

Hm, never heard of it

Bella:

I didn’t think you were an anime fan

Head thrown back, I laugh. It’s almost exactly what I said about Guy Ritchie’s movies.

Me:

Anime kinda grew on me. Did you watch Suzume?

Bella:

The one about the guy who turns into a turtle?

I scoff. Is she trying to catch me in a lie?

Me:

He turns into a chair

Bella:

I’m impressed. And yes, I loved it

I quickly reread our messages. Is it just me, or is she being friendly? And do I sense a flirtatious tone? It’s tempting to ask her if she wants to watch it together, but we’re not there yet. My best bet is to start with an activity that involves Milo. And that’s why?—

“Walker.”

I look up from my phone as Miller sits on the couch beside me.

“What is your dog doing with Isabella?”

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