Page 67 of Romantic

I feel like death warmed over. My head hurts like there’s an actual ice pick in my forehead, and all my muscles ache. But I have five texts from Annie so, all things considered, it’s a pretty good day.

Annie

Sorry to leave without saying goodbye

You were sound asleep and I didn’t want to disturb you

Your parents told me to take your car

I hope that’s okay

Please give me updates. I’m very worried

Why does it make me so happy that she has my car?

Brandon

I’m good.

Annie

You’re awake! Are you REALLY good, or are you just saying that because you never admit to physical pain?

Brandon

What is this pain you speak of?

My phone rings. It’s Annie.

“I need to hear your voice to properly assess the situation.”

“I’m not sure what you can assess over the phone.”

“Plenty, but it would be better if we face-time.”

My phone rings again. Annie’s requesting to FaceTime? Why does this feel like a big step? Despite my splitting headache, I feel a smidge giddy. I need to remind myself that she’s just a concerned friend.

Her welcome face appears on my screen. She’s out in her flower garden looking radiant with her curly hair up in a messy bun. “Hi!” She smiles wide. I could look at her all day.

“Hey!” Illness has made my voice an octave lower and scratchy. I notice myself in the tiny screen. My hair mussed, my eyes bleary. She looks like a princess, and I look like a troll.

“You don’t look so good.”

“Thank you!” I say sarcastically.

“I didn’t mean it like that. You actually look very handsome, but also really sick—like maybe you still have a fever.” Come to think of it, I do have the chills.

“I might.”

“Okay, promise me you’ll call me after your doctor’s appointment. You know what, I’m just going to text your mom and tell her to call me and give me all the details.”

“I should have never given you her number,” I groan. Though I only half mean it. I feel like crap, but it feels really good to have the two of them fussing over me.

***

I have pneumonia.

I’m sent home with antibiotics, an inhaler, and the recommendation to rest.