Page 31 of Romeo

“I’m just saying.” Georgie’s tone was gentle but firm. “You’re doing great, Fi. Don’t let anyone mess that up for you.”

Then he walked away before I could decide whether I wanted to argue with him.

Nash let out a low whistle. “That was weird.”

“Yeah.”

“You think he knows about Louisiana guy?”

“I don’t know.”

I picked up my phone.

Jasper’s last message still waited there.

You’re still playing.

The words felt different after Georgie’s little speech. Maybe I was playing. I just wasn’t sure whose game it was anymore.

Three days later, I was lying on my bed staring at my phone when I decided Jasper had gotten enough information out of me.

Me: My turn for twenty questions.

Jasper: I’m listening.

Me: First job?

Jasper: Helping family with things I probably shouldn’t explain over text.

I laughed.

Me: That sounds illegal

Jasper: Allegedly.

Me: Real answer.

Jasper: Yard work.

Me: First car?

Jasper: Old Chevy pickup that stalled every time it rained.

Me: Did you fix it?

Jasper: Eventually.

Me: What did you name it?

Jasper: I didn’t name my truck.

Me: That’s disappointing

Jasper: Did you name your car?

Me: Mabel.

Jasper: Of course you did.