TJ:My competition?
Lexi:This is so hard.
TJ:So, no competition. He already won.
Lexi:I feel so badly. But I don’t want to string you along. Of all the guys I’ve met on the app, You’re the one I felt had the most potential of actually being someone I could end up dating.
TJ:I understand. He’s one lucky guy.
Lexi:He’s my best friend.
TJ:Well, that explains the instant attraction. It’s not so instant, is it? What are you going to do about your feelings for him?
Lexi:I don’t know. I probably should get off the app and stop texting you, though.
TJ:Would you like some advice? From a guy?
Lexi:You’d give me advice, even after I just shut the door on you?
TJ:I want to see you happy.
Lexi:Wow. That’s really sweet. Okay, give me advice. I sure could use it.
TJ:If he’s your best friend, he already loves you on at least one level. I know it can feel like crossing that line means losing everything, but from my standpoint, if my friend had feelings for me, I’d want her to make it clear.
Lexi:Thanks. You basically summed up what I’m thinking. This is weird—talking to you about this. But I really appreciate it. I hope you find someone amazing too.
TJ:I’ve got a good feeling that I will. Don’t worry about me.
I put my phone back in the pocket of my dress, fluff my feathers and walk out to find Trevor.
Laura sees me as I approach the tables.
“Where did you go?”
“I texted TJ, the guy on the app, and told him I’m not on the market.”
“You go girl!”
“Shush,” I whisper scold at Laura. “You’re drawing attention.”
“I always do,” she says with a wink. “Now go get your man.
“I’m so nervous.”
“Have I ever steered you wrong?”
I give her a look.
“Okay, I’m not talking about the time I talked you into sneaking up on Bubba White when he was washing down the hog barn … or the time I convinced you pouring glue on Ella Mae’s chair in second grade was a good idea …”
“Not helping, Laura.”
“Just trust me. I know Trevor has feelings for you. One of you has to cross this line. The mood is right. You’re feeling bold, and it’s a subtle move on your part. You can play it off if it backfires—which it won’t.”
“Okay,” I say. “Wish me luck.”
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