Page 23 of Fox
Torch: Derek gave me a list of ink we need. Do you need any others?
Wow. What an absolutely boring text. And since when does she ask me if I need anything?
Me: I would ask for black, but you’ll just get me the shitty vegan ink again.
I smirk while watching the three bubbles bouncing as she types out her response. Only it’s not the snarky comeback I thought it would be. No, it’s a screenshot of my preferred ink.
Torch: This one, right?
Me: Are you alright Torch? I don’t know how to handle you actually behaving.
Torch: Yeah, well, due to recent events in my life. I feel as though there needs to be a level of professionalism. So, is this what you would like me to purchase?
The gut-churning is back, and I regret the hot wings I consumed for dinner. She’s acting like this because of what I did. I go to text out an apology, but is that shitty and cowardly? Shouldn’t I apologize in person, like a man?
Me: Yes, you got it.
Me: When are you coming back to work?
Torch: Missing me already? *winky face*
I chuckle at her smart attitude sneaking through.
Me: Yeah, about as much as I miss my proctologist.
Torch: Now, Papa Fox, please make sure you are getting your prostate checked. Men at your age need to take your prostate health seriously.
This fucking brat.
Me: Some level of professionalism
Janie’s text bubbles appear, disappear, and reappear before her simple text comes through.
Torch: I’ll be back this weekend. Night.
Fuck.
Me: Torch
Me: Janie, listen, the other day, fuck, I don’t even know what to say.
Torch: LOL Fox, get over yourself. Do you honestly think that affected me in any way? I haven’t even thought about it. I’ve just been busy, my guy. Hel’s isn’t the only business I run, you know.
Me: co run*
Me: And excuse the fuck out of me for trying to be a decent man and make sure you’re okay.
Torch: You mean because I’m a weak little girl who got taken advantage of by the big bad man?
Torch: Again, get over yourself. Trust me, I haven’t given it a single thought.
“Fuck this,” I mutter, hitting the video call button. She accepts the call, and panic immediately courses through me, seeing her bloodshot eyes and blotchy face. “What’s wrong, Janie?”
“Nothing,” she snaps, and I note how terribly the phone shakes in her hand. “Just a bad day.” She whispers, and my thoughts go back to the comments on Instagram.
“What can I do to help?” I say without realizing it. Janie gives me a quizzical look before letting out a dry laugh.
“Never try to show me concern again? Seriously, that was the most uncomfortable thing I’ve ever witnessed.”
