Page 73 of I Can't Even Think Straight

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I notice his biceps and triceps.

I notice the hair in his armpits.

Most of all, I notice the pendant.

I dream of being as close to Obi

as that lucky pendant gets to be.

Sunday: Back for More—Mum’s Market Stall

“Here, look who’s back for more.”

Mum nudges me gently with her elbow.

I’ve not officially come out to her,

but I figure she just knows.

“Back in five,” says Mum.

She hands over the card reader and money belt,

and, just like that, she’s gone.

“Where are your friends?”

I ask Obi as he reaches me.

“Ouch!” Obi laughs.

“I thought you and I were friends?”

“You promised me witches,” I remind him.

“I was hoping to join your coven.”

“I was hoping to get you alone,

and it looks like I’m in luck, for now.”

He grins, and I swoon at the sight

of those canines up close.

“Why do you want me alone?” I ask.

“Why do you think?” he replies.

I know what Obi may be implying,

but this isn’t good enough for me.

I was wrong about Kwesi:

my one-to-watch was

a red herring, a distraction.

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