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“It’s the nature of the beast, I suppose.” Mom slices the casserole into squares even though the rolled and stuffed enchiladas are clearly divided into vertical rows. “You two were in love when you were teenagers and she’s making you feel young again. It’s romantic.”
I bristle at the word “love” and more at the word “romantic.” I’m not sure which one’s worse coming out of my mother’s mouth.
“Except that she’s using him,” Jules grumbles.
“I’m not being used!” Except I thought that same word yesterday. And I’m defensive and my voice is high like a preteen’s. Great. I’m regressing. I only felt used because I didn’t know that the kiss was for the camera. I’d assumed she’d say something like “Action!” or “Now!” and not be so…convincing. I thought she was reacting to me—turned on by me. I thought she wanted me.
“You’re upset that she’s not responding to you the way you’re responding to her,” Julieann says carefully.
Mom and Dad both regard me with raised eyebrows. I scoop out the rice and pass the bowl, going for the enchiladas next, refusing to honor them with a response. If what Jules is saying is true—that I’m alone in feeling the tug in the center of my chest, that Allie’s stringing me along, well…I’ll have to show her that I’m not the boyfriend she left behind.
“How was everyone’s week?” I ask, changing the subject.
Julieann is still giving me that pitying look. I meet her gaze and use my Wonder-Twin powers. Help me out here.
“I’m up for a promotion,” she chirps after receiving my telepathic request.
Thanks.I shoot her a quick smile.
Her lips quirk. You owe me.
