Page 56 of Ice Queen

I hit send, then quickly decided that probably wasn’t the best idea.

I’m sorry, Hannah said something about you donating to DV shelters, and my mind ran wild, and I didn’t even think to ask when you were talking. I’m sorry for the random morning text. I need to know.

I stare at the screen, nothing. No dots, no “read,” just blank white space.

“Sammy,” Hannah calls. “You okay? You’re going to snap that thing in half.” She motions to my phone.

She’s right, my grip is so tight that my knuckles are white.

Good Morning, Markus. No, he didn’t.

Okay, sorry. That was inappropriate to ask. I hope you have a great weekend.

Maggie and I are going to Lettie’s later. I didn’t ask if it was okay if I took her out of the house. So, is that okay? I can cancel if I need to.

Go have fun, Princesa. Maggie loves the ranch.

Got it. Good luck this weekend.

Are you going to watch me play tomorrow?

My leg bounces as I wait for her answer. I don’t know why I even asked. I guess I just wanted to picture her curled up on the couch with Maggie, watching me do what I do best. But those dreams are slashed the second her text comes through.

Probably not. I have a date.

Tension coils through my entire body, my thumb hovering over the screen. I read the text again. And then again a third time. Nothing I do makes it make sense. My jaw tightens until it aches. Was she playing with me yesterday? Acting like she actually cared, then decided she didn’t like my answer and had someone else all lined up?

Before my brain can catch up, I type out, A date? Then quickly delete it.

The flashing bar mocks me as I try to come up with something, anything.

Where did you meet this guy? Nope, too invasive.

Where is he taking you? None of your business.

I know she doesn’t owe me anything, but I thought we had a moment. It doesn’t stop the heat from clawing its way up my neck, though.

You’re leaving Maggie to go on a date?

You didn’t say I had to stay with her all weekend.

Yeah, but a date? What’s his name? I'll run a background check.

Calm down, Dad. I’ll be fine.

Are you not the one who said I could be a serial killer?

Yes… Have you decided to become one? I have a list of people you could start with.

I bite down on my lip at her response. Cheeky little shit.

Oh, come on. You’re going out with some unknown dude. After you asked me to kiss you, might I add. At least give me something in case you end up missing.

Lighten up, Casanova. I’ve been on many dates, none of which I checked in with you for. I’ll be fine.

I asked you to kiss me? Must have been a pretty forgettable kiss.

Oh, wait. You misplaced your balls and didn’t actually kiss me.