Page 43 of Ice Ice Maybe
I tried to ignore Dad’s voice and drift to happier thoughts—specifically, waking up this morning to Nolan’s adorable snore. It was like a gentle breeze through a cracked window that lulled me right back to sleep.
Nolan pulled out his phone and typed something.
I glanced down at the text on my vibrating phone.
Nolan:What’s that smile for? ??
I don’t know why I hadn’t thought of exchanging messages with him. It was such a great idea to pass the time and distract us from Dad’s annoying behavior. I eagerly typed a reply, looking forward to some fun with him.
Me:I’ll tell you why I smiled if you tell me why you wanted me to wear theSimpson’sT-shirt to bed last night.
Nolan:Deal.
Me:Really? Promise?
Nolan:Promise.
Me:You have the cutest snore. ??
Nolan:Seriously? I gave you earplugs! Why didn’t you use them?
Me:I didn’t want to. Your snoring is soothing and hypnotic. You should record it and sell it as a sleeping aid.
Nolan:You’re weird.
Me:And proud of it. ??
Mom gave me a knowing smile.
She knew I liked Nolan.
Women knew these things.
“You tell that ignoramus I’m watching him like a hawk,” Dad said to the person on the other end of the call.
I glanced down at my vibrating phone again.
Nolan:Your dad is the life of the party. I think I found my new bestie. ??
We both fell into an uncontrollable giggle fit, playfully bumping each other’s arms, but the fun was cut short when Dad glared at us.
Nolan:Is he always like this?
Me:All. Day. Long. It’s ridiculous and unhealthy.
Nolan:How is your mom able to handle it?
Me:Wine and patience. In that order. Tell me about the T-shirt.
Nolan:Your abrupt change of subject gave me a case of vertigo. It’s hard to focus. I can’t type anymore! What happened to my finger function?
Me:Notice you’re the only one smiling? Spill it.
Nolan:Thank you for your patience. Your text will be answered in the order it was received. ??
Me:Tell me!!!!
Nolan:Fine. Calm down before you get throbbing veins in your forehead like your dad. The T-shirt is meant as a distraction, so I don’t have to look at your body.
