Page 74 of Flaunt
I look up. “What is the most clear-cut way to time someone running? Where no one could cheat?”
“Well …” She narrows her eyes, thinking. “You could go out on the highway toward Sunset Shores. They have one of those signs that clock cars. I bet it would clock you if you ran real fast, wouldn’t it?”
I gasp. “You’re a genius.”
Me: Tomorrow night. 8pm. Sign on the highway on the way to Sunset Shores.
Moss: Huh?
Me: We race. The sign will clock us. No one can cheat.
Jess: I like it.
Maddox: I’m in.
Moss: All right. Let’s do it.
Me: You’re going down, fuckers.
Paige: Someone video this. I beg you.
Me: Of course, I’m videoing it. I’m not letting my victory be forgotten.
Jess:
“So what are you going to do about your roommate?” Gloria asks.
I look up to see that our plates have been delivered.When did that happen?
I set my phone down as a knot forms in my stomach again. “What do you mean?”
“It’s gonna come to a head between the two of you. What’s your plan?”
Shrugging, I pick up a fry. “I don’t know. I almost gave in last night but was an adult for the first time in my life. And you know what, Gloria? I hated it. I’ve regretted adulting all day.”
She laughs. “You’ll be fine. You’re a smart, kind man. Just tell her that if she scoops you up—as she should—I’m not giving up my weekly lunch dates. I had you first.”
“No one is taking me away from you, babe.”
She winks. “That’s right.”
We eat our lunches. Gloria chats with a lady next to her that’s holding a baby. I gaze out the window and wonder what awaits me at home.
That’s hours from now. I have a lot to do before then.
But Gloria’s right. I need a plan because this thing with Sara isn’t going to go away.
So how am I going to handle it? Handleher?
Hmm …
15
Banks
“I got this.I just need to stay cool and stick to my guns,” I say, staring at my house. “You’re a big boy, Banks. You’re in control.”
Holding my breath, I wait for the words to sink in.For me to believe them. Eventually, my lungs start to hurt.
