"That's so grown-up." She lets out a sigh that's pure teenage girl longing. "I can't wait until I'm in college."
"Wait. Stay young forever."
"Don't even! When you were my age… I remember how often you snuck around with guys."
"It wasn't that often."
"It was often enough."
Maybe. I did have a phase. I didn't have sex, but I did have a lot of make out sessions, ranging from OMG to oh, hell no. "Are you seeing the guy you took to prom?"
"Not really."
"You trust him?"
"Yeah, sure. He's sweet," she says. "But don't worry, we're not having sex."
I wasn't worried. Until she said that. "You have condoms?"
"Immy!"
"Seriously, Julie. It's better to be safe than sorry."
"Yes. I have condoms." She flames red. "We're not going to have sex. I'm not ready."
My shoulders fall. I want my kid sister to have a fulfilling life, with everything that entails, but I still worry. Men aren't always the most trustworthy. Women aren't always the most trustworthy. She's tough, yes, but she's sweet too. She sees the best in people. "He knows that?"
"Oh my god, you're about to go have casual sex."
"I'm ready."
"Ugh. You're the worst."
"That's my job, as your older sister."
"Will you tell me about it?"
"Sure." I give her a hug. "I love you."
"Go. Get laid."
"When did you become a bro?"
"Hello! Softball scholarship!"
That's true. "Be good."
"I should tell you that."
Probably.
I give her another hug, then I say goodbye to my parents, I get into my car, and I leave.
After a few blocks, I stop. I change into a dress. I apply lipstick. I check the time.
A few minutes to eight. The drive is an hour. I'll arrive right on time.
Perfect.