Page 58 of It Started in the Chatroom

Igrimaced, feeling the pressure of wanting to see them both. I definitely wanted to debrief with Brooklyn about my night with Nathan, but Mack and I still hadn’t worked out the details of the party, and we had planned it for the upcoming weekend. I wanted Brooklyn there, especially as I planned to ask her to be my maid of honor.

Only one thing to do, I thought.Time for a group chat.

Ciara:Hey! Figured I should start a group chat. Can we all meet for breakfast today? Brooklyn, I know you hate mornings and that you have things to do this afternoon, but I want to introduce you two to each other. And we have to talk about the bridal party.

Mack:Sure! Name the place. (Nice to text-meet you, Brooklyn!)

Brooklyn: Likewise on both. Time?

Ciara:An hour at Tommy’s Diner? So around 11?

Brooklyn:????

Mack:Works for me ???? I’ll text Sara and let her know

Ciara: Great! See you then.

Isighed as I hopped into a chair at the kitchen bar, clearing all my notifications and finishing my coffee. As I took my last sip, savoring the hazelnut taste and humming my contentment, a string of texts from Nathan popped up. I smiled.

Nathan: Hey, Cinderelly. You up?

Nathan:Never thought I’d send a “u up?” text

Nathan:But does it count if it’s in the morning and not for a booty call? ??

Igiggled. Getting texts from Nathan was the highlight of my day lately.So freaking adorable.

Ciara:I’m not a booty call aficionado, but I think you’re good. And yes, I’m up.

Nathan:Good??‍?? That was a close one

Nathan: Can’t be Prince Charming and also a booty call frequenter

Ishook my head, still laughing.

Nathan:Well, anyway, just wanted to check in

Nathan:Also, I had fun last night / this morning ?? Maybe we can have a repeat session sometime…

Iheld the phone to my chest, a surge of happiness bubbling within me.He enjoyed it, too.

I was quick to respond.

Ciara:I’d like that ??

Nathan:?? What are you up to today? Any plans?

Ciara:Yeah, brunch later with the girls. Mack, Brooklyn, and Sara.

Nathan:Sounds…fun?

Ciara:Yeah, it should be great!

Ellipses appeared and disappeared a few times before Nathan sent another message.

Nathan:Well, enjoy yourself, pretty girl. I’ll see you when I get home. I’m leaving work on time tonight, come hell or high water. Pray for me ????

Ciara:See you when you get home.

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