Page 72 of Playing Dirty

---

But it lands anyway.

Because I did notice.

And that’s the part that sticks.

Not emotion.

Not explanation.

Just awareness.

My phone buzzes.

Unknown number.

I already know.

Rowan.

you usually stare at empty seats that hard or is this a new hobby?

I stare at it.

Then reply:

you weren’t there

Three dots appear instantly.

observant

I exhale through my nose.

where were you

Long pause.

Toolong.

working

That should’ve ended it.

It doesn’t.

My thumb stays over the screen longer than it should.

Jace clocks it instantly.

“You’re texting her,” he says.

“I’m not.”

“You are absolutely texting her.”

I ignore him.

Type:

---