Patrick: There's a pool.
Imogen: You didn't lead with that?
Patrick: It's probably not up to your standards.
Imogen: A pool is a pool
Patrick: Come to my place early. We can drive together.
Imogen: No, I have a lesson the Saturday after next. I'll meet you there.
Patrick:I'll send the address. What's your BBQ poison?
Imogen: Grilled chicken. And corn on the cob.
Patrick: Done.
Imogen: Is that all?
Patrick: I'm at work.
Imogen: Even so.
Patrick: Bad girl.
Imogen: I know.
Patrick: I have an appointment soon. But I'd love to break to a picture.
Imogen: Make it worth my while.
Patrick: My response will.
Imogen: Hardball, huh?
Patrick: Absolutely.
I can see her smile. I can see her falling into this teasing. It's easy. I want to stay here with her forever, too.
But the second I close our texts, reality crashes into me.
I need to read her entries.
I need to tell her.
"Oh my god, is he sexting here?" Luna asks. "Gross."
"Can I see?" Dare asks.
"Fuck no," I say.
"If it's just words—"
"Fuck. No."
"Aw, he's protective. Isn't that cute?" Dare asks.
"And if I say your 'best friend' is hot? You don't feel any need to protect her?" Luna asks.