ME: And he loves me
Three dots appear. Disappear. Appear again. This goes on for an unnervingly long time.
SAGE: POPPY
SAGE: POPPY ROSE GABLE
SAGE: ARE YOU TELLING ME
SAGE: THIS IS THE ONE?
SAGE: I feel weird typing that last one.
SAGE: You know how I feel about all that
SAGE: But I’m super HAPPY for you!!
I glance up. Julian is standing by the window, watching the darkness like he’s daring it to make a move. The moonlight catches the sharp lines of his profile.
ME: He’s standing by the window right now looking all broody and protective
ME: It’s doing things to me
SAGE: THINGS
SAGE: What kind of THINGS
SAGE: Actually don’t answer that
SAGE: Wait no ANSWER THAT
ME: I need to go
SAGE: Don’t you DARE leave me on read
SAGE: I have QUESTIONS
ME: I’ll call you tomorrow. Promise.
SAGE: After the wedding?
ME: After the wedding.
SAGE: If he breaks your heart I will so hurt him back
ME: That’s the most romantic threat you’ve ever made.
SAGE: I know. Love you.
ME: Love you too.
I set down my phone and cross to where Julian stands. He doesn’t turn, but I see his shoulders relax slightly as I approach—like my presence is a comfort even when he’s scanning for threats.
“Sage threatened to hurt you if you break my heart,” I say.
“I’d expect nothing less.” He turns to face me. “She’s a good friend.”
“The best.” I lean against the window frame, studying him in the moonlight. “Can I ask you something?”
