Page 26 of Bookish Boys Don't Date Social Girls
“Of course, I know that.” Bridget arches a brow. “It’s just that you don’t. At least you didn’t used to. I haven’t been out of the house for that long that you’ve completely changed your personality, have I?”
Bridget’s reaction might be why I’m so reluctant to talk about my new hobby. I just shrug.
“Oh!” Her eyes widen. “It’s because of that boy, isn’t it?”
I can feel my cheeks heat. “No, actually. That’s just a happy coincidence.”
She studies me a bit before she asks, “What are you reading?”
“Right now, I’m reading the first book in a romantic comedy series. I just finished the first two books in a ghost thriller series, which I was surprised to really enjoy.”
Bridget gapes at me and I feel self-conscious. This is definitely why I’m hesitant to talk about it.
“Geez, Bridge. You’re making me feel like I’m stupid.”
“Aw, sis, that isn’t it at all. How is it that you even have time? Who are you dating this week? Does he know about his competition?”
I open my mouth and then close it again. Bridget is going to think something is really wrong with me if I answer that honestly.
“What?” she asks. “Does your boyfriend of the week not know about your new reading addiction?”
I sigh. “There isn’t a boyfriend this week.”
She looks around. “Is there no new guy because you’re hanging out alone in the park? Or are you here alone because there is no new guy?”
I glance over to the big outdoor stage and spy Hot Dog Guy manning his father’s cart right next to it. “No, I just…I’m on a break, I guess.”
Bridget squints. Then she looks at her phone. “Shoot, I have to get going. I have a class. Are you okay though?”
I look up at the clear blue sky and shake my head in exasperation. “Yes, Bridget. I’m fine.”
“I’ll call you tonight. Ooo, maybe not until tomorrow. Unless you need to talk. I can stay now if you need me.”
“Holy overreaction! There is nothing to talk about.” I point my finger toward the parking lot. “Get out of here, please. Go.”
She springs forward and wraps her arms around me. “Love you, sis. Call meany time.Understand?”
I just nod because she clearly isn’t listening to what I’m saying. “Bye.”
She sprints across the grass toward the parking lot. I sigh and flop onto the bench,discouraged by the exchange even though I understand where her confusion comes from. I pull my phone out and lose myself in my book again.
I ignore my incoming texts until I see one from Bek pop up.
Bek: Are you okay? Coming? Should we just head home?
Crud. I did it again. I got totally engrossed in my book and lost track of time.
Me: On my way!
Now I’m the one dashing across the expanse of grass, taking the shortest route to my car. I’m going to need to set an alarm or something in the future, so I stop leaving my friends stranded.
Chapter Fourteen
When I knockon the door this time, my stomach isn’t in knots and my palms aren’t sweaty. Today, Bek and I are invited to Ava’s and everybody knows we’re coming. It’s moving day for Joel, and we are here to help. Originally, we offered to take Ava to the zoo to distract her from the sadness that she’s sure to feel, but then she asked if we would help instead.
I’m not really sure Joel needs the help. Ava says he only has his bedroom stuff to move. I saw his bedroom that day I came over to get Ava’s pants. He barely has anything. But she wants to be a part of his day, and she’s totally earned that right. I’m honored that she asked Bek and me to be a part of it as well. Her boyfriend, Dylan, is helping too. He and Joel are the muscle.
The door swings open and I feel Bek stiffen beside me.
