Page 55

“Got it. Thanks for telling me.”

“Hey, Hayden is picky about who he lets in, so clearly you stood out.” He winks.

I can feel my cheeks heat at his words. I know deep down that he’s right; it’s something I’ve gathered over the last few weeks. I noticed the contrast between how people in Cottondale view Hayden versus how he is around me. I just don’t know why he’d pick me.

“So back to what I said earlier,” Kora says, eager to get her point across. “Hayden likes Robin.”

I roll my eyes at her for what seems like the millionth time.

“Obviously,” Mike mutters, shoving the last taco in his mouth before he tells us he has to go back to work and walks back to the bar.

Robin: talked to Mike and he said he’s in!

Hayden: Yeah, he texted me too. I gave him an estimate for the guest list

Robin: kora asked if she’s invited?

Hayden: As if she wouldn’t show up if she weren’t. But yeah, she’s invited

Robin: mike mentioned something…

Hayden: I don’t like the sound of that

Robin: you don’t have to tell me anything, but he might’ve mentioned that you haven’t talked to your dad in like a decade?

Hayden: Oh. Yeah, I guess

Robin: hayden.

Hayden: Robin.

Robin: we don’t have to go to the gala. I’m not sure it’s worth it.

Hayden: It’s definitely worth it if there’s a chance our plan could work

Robin: I don’t know... it seems like a big sacrifice to make for a maybe.

Hayden: Well, we’re going. I already picked out an outfit

Robin: you did?

Hayden: Yes, and you will not take this opportunity to wear my brand-new stilettos away from me

Robin: you’re stupid lol. but I wouldn’t miss the opportunity to see you in stilettos.

Hayden: You shouldn’t. My calves are pretty sexy, and I’m planning to show a lot of leg in my skimpy outfit. You might have to pry some middle-aged ladies off me

Robin: well, shit. I was planning on a similar outfit, but I don’t wanna take attention away from you.

Hayden: No, no, no. I’ll let you show calf. I shall be a gentleman and be fully covered up, so it won’t take away from your skimpy outfit

Robin: lol

Robin: wait, what’s the dress code?

Hayden: Formal attire. Boring, lame, and plain. Just like this event will be

Robin: well, you have me as your date, so it won’t be boring, lame, or plain.