From Tucker.
Like he could feel me talking about him. Thinking about him.
How’s the cake design coming?
I should’ve texted him first and given an update. Now I feel unprofessional.
I should have something for you to look at by tomorrow! Sorry I didn’t text anything last night.
I chew on my lip, thinking up the right thing to say.
I’ve been busy.
Lame, but he’ll probably buy it.
No problem, he says seconds later. Can’t wait to see what you come up with.
The pressure is on. I do not want to disappoint him.
Tucker sends me another text.
It was great seeing you yesterday.
I press my lips together to keep my smile contained, ignoring the flurry of butterflies set off by reading his simple words.
Deciding to keep it strictly professional, I compose the most business-like text I can think of.
I’m glad I could be of assistance for your parents’ party.
Aw come on Maise. We’re old friends. You can be friendlier than that.
I’m being perfectly friendly, I shoot back.
He sends me a laughing/crying face emoji in response.
“Who are you texting?”
My head shoots up, my eyes wide as I stare at my sister. “Um, no one.”
“Liar.” Brooke moves closer, craning her head to try and see my phone screen, but I never did type in Tucker’s name, so just his number appears. “Who is it?”
“I’ll never tell,” I say, running around the kitchen so I’m standing on the other side of the island.
“It’s Tucker, isn’t it?” Brooke sounds triumphant and again I’m consumed with the need to smack her. What’s up with my violent feelings toward my sister tonight?
My phone buzzes and I glance down.
Not friendly enough for me.
He adds a winking emoji face to the text.
Okay. It feels like he’s flirting with me. And I want to…
Flirt back.
How friendly are you wanting me?
I send the text before I can overthink it.