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What would I be proving? That I can take being tickled? Because what are the options? I can see my headstone now. ‘He was tickled to death. He died laughing.’ And you are being *way* too serious about this.

I’m always serious about limits.

I trust you.

Warmth crept through me. Good.

I thought we were done, until those three dots appeared again.

So…

So?

Am I bringing an overnight bag or pretending I’ve memorised the train timetable?

And there it was. No dancing around it this time, and easier to respond to, second time around.

I slid my thumbs over the screen. Bring clean clothes.

Three dots appeared instantly. Disappeared. Reappeared.

Okay.

Three dots…

Floor?

My heart pounded as I typed. No.

You’re sure?

Yes.

Okay. That was easy.

I snorted. I assure you, it wasn’t.

It came over as easy. If a text can do that.

It wasn’t.

Good.

???

I like pushing your boundaries too. Three dots. I’ll see you tonight.

I smiled. Eat beforehand.

Bossy. Three dots. Max?

Yes.

I’m not trying to corner you.

And there was that warmth again. I know.

Okay. Just checking. See you at 7.