“I…I asked her out on a date. This morning. I finally asked her.”
Mom hauls me into a hug. “Sloane, that’s fantastic.”
I can feel myself beaming. “I just figured I’d shoot my shot.”
“That’s my girl. So, when is it?” Dad asks. Is it weird they are both so invested in my dating life?
I deflate. “We didn’t set a time or place. Becca totally ruined the moment. Then we had to get home so…”
Mom grabs my face. “Text her!”
And that brings me to the present: me in my room staring at my phone like it might bite me. I didn’t text her last night. When I woke up, I gnawed my lip so badly it bled. It’s stupid. I’ve already done the hard part of asking her out. I mean, she’s already agreed, so why can’t I just send her a message?
Ugh, I’m worried she’s changed her mind. Well, she’s bound to have thought about the party, and I wouldn’tblame her if it made her rethink the date. I was a fucking mess.
My internal torture is interrupted by Mom sticking her head around my door. She looks from me to my phone, which I’ve dropped to my chest in sheer frustration.
“Breakfast will be ready soon, honey. You have five minutes to text the girl. May I recommend going for a small hike or something?”
Then she’s gone.
Oh my god, I’m being so ridiculous.
Huffing out my frustration, I pick up my phone with renewed confidence. I’ll ask her to go on a hike with me this afternoon. If shehaschanged her mind about dating, it won’t have been a waste of time. She will have done some exercise. Because no matter what happens between us, I’m determined to get her through this 5k.
I just really hope she hasn’t changed her mind.
You: 8:25 AM
Morning Eden. I hope you’re having a nice weekend. I wondered if you’re free this afternoon for a small hike?
Why am I being so formal?
Eden: 8:27 AM
A hike is a bit of a step up from walking Sloane!
I smile because she’s adorable. Of course, she’s focused on the exercise part of my message.
You: 8:30 AM
I said a small hike. It would be a great way to test your fitness level. Plus, there are some really beautiful spots around here. They might inspire some art. Win-win!
Eden: 8:31 AM
…
What does that mean? Typo? Maybe she’s figuring out a way to let me down easy.
Eden: 8:32 AM
Ugh, you’re gonna be the death of me, Bishop! Fine, I’ll do a hike. You betterbring snacks. I’m wearing my boots too. Where and what time?
Letting out a squeal, I hold my phone so tight I swear I hear it strain under the pressure.
You: 8:33 AM
Noon. Come to my place and I’ll drive.
