Alex:It has pride of place on the wall by the front door so you see it as soon as you come in.
Me:Aw. emoji
Alex:Are you having a nice Christmas Day?
Me:Yes! Mum’s friend Mike is coming around for dinner. He was spending the day alone so I said to invite him.
Alex:How do you feel about that?
My lips twist at his astuteness.
Me:Yeah, a bit odd, I have to admit. Does that make me a small person?
Alex:Of course not. I know your dad loved Christmas. It’s cool that you asked Mike for your mum, though.
I flush at his praise. Is it weird that it makes me feel good?
Me:Thank you. emoji
After a beat, he comes back.
Alex:I’m proud of you.
Me: emoji
Alex:You’re a good girl.
Me:OMG. Stop it. I’m getting all hot and bothered.
Alex:Only a few more days and then you can have a reward.
Me:Alex!!!!! I thought you might need a fortnight to recover!
Alex:You want me to wait?
Me:Noooooooo!
Alex:LOL. I was worried for a minute.
Me:Do you realize you don’t use exclamation marks like normal people?!
Alex:Really?
Me:Even in your texts you’re hard to read!
Alex:I’m very easy. Just assume I’m thinking about sex whenever you’re around and you’ll be spot on.
Me:Jesus, will you stop? I’m the color of Rudolph’s nose!
Alex:My work here is done emoji
Me:Gotta go carve the turkey. Are you a breast or leg man?
Alex:Definitely breast.
Me:I’ll save you a bit emoji
Alex:Aw. Now I’m hot and bothered.