Page 41 of Sunflower Persona
“Unless you are willing to commit to practicing it, all that would do is instill you with a false sense of confidence, and that’s how you end up getting hurt.”
“And if I was willing to commit?”
“I’m more than happy to keep working with you if that is what you’re asking. Next time we can start working on some basic escapes.”
“Next time being…”
“The bar isn’t open on Sunday, so this time works well for me. Is next week good for you?”
“It’s perfect.”
He’s perfect.
What I felt before was barely embers compared to the raging inferno thatCoach Gageignites. On the mats, he sheds that broody shell of his and becomes this confident force to be reckoned with. I can’t help but imagine where else he might let this version of himself shine. My dreams are going to go in a whole different direction.
“Are you going to the game night thing tonight?” I ask as I try to push away the invasive thoughts.
This isn’t the time or place for me to be thirsting after him.
“At Morgan’s place?”
“I think so? Evelyn just sent the address.” I pull out my phone and show him the text.
“Yeah, that’s it,” he confirms. “I’ll be there. Are you thinking about coming?”
“Maybe, I’m not sure. Should I?”
Is it really an invitation if it only comes from one person? The rest of the group might not even know she offered. What if I show up and ruin their fun…again? She could have only asked to be polite, or maybe out of pity. They all might think I’m a stage-five clinger if I show up there. I shouldn’t go. I won’t go. PlayingMonster Hunterby myself will be just as fun.
“I’d like it if you came.” The soft words snap me out of the death spiral of thoughts plaguing my mind.
“Really?” I squeak.
“Of course. It will be fun, and the others have been asking about you.”
They have…?
Fuck it. Making friends has been my whole mission, and it’s staring me in the mouth. I’d be a fool not to take it—or at least a coward.
“Then I guess I’m in.”
“Good. I’ll see you then.”
With an awkward wave, he turns and walks toward the road.
“Where are you going,” I call out.
“Home.”
“On foot?”
“It’s only a few miles.”
“There aren’t even sidewalks out here. Let me give you a ride. It’s the least I can do to pay you back for today.”
He hesitates for a moment before he relents.
“You don’t need to pay me back, so that isn’t what this is, but I’m not too proud to accept the ride.”
