Page 69 of Crease Collision

He nods once, like we’ve made a gentleman’s agreement. “Goodnight, baby.”

“Goodnight, Oskar.”

This time I let him go. Inside the lobby, the elevator’s already waiting. The doors close, and I’m alone in the small space, remembering the first time I brought Oskar home.

I lean against the wall on the way to my floor. Even though I’m not in the reset room, I don’t try to block what I’m feeling. I let it move around me, enjoying the warmth spreading through my body.

I can still hear his words: “My brain goes quiet when I touch you.” I’ve never once thought of myself as quieting anyone.

CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE

KAI

KAI: What if we cook? I could make something American for you.

OSKAR: Converting me from the inside out?

OSKAR: J/K. I would like that.

KAI: Mom and I went to Norway last summer.

OSKAR: Okay. Inferior to Sweden, but I forgive you.

I laugh so loudly I startle myself.

KAI: Haha. I liked the food there. What if you cook something Swedish while I make American?

KAI: Does that sound okay? I want to try Swedish.

OSKAR: I happen to know you have tried Swedish already. Do you mean you want to try Swedish food?

Shit. I can just see him smirking.

Okay, buddy. You asked for it.

KAI: The Swedish I had was just okay. Hoping the food might be better.

OSKAR: Never noticed those nails before. Perhaps I will give you both Swedish and Swedish food.

Jesus Christ. Why am I blushing when he can’t even see me?

KAI: We’ll have to see how it goes. I might be too full.

OSKAR: Oh, you will be very full. I recall when you told me that before.

My heart stops in slow motion. How’s that even possible?

OSKAR: Your place or mine? We will need to go shopping.

I thump my chest. Start, heart!

KAI: Let me see yours.

Delete. The fuck’s wrong with me?

KAI: If you still want me to see your apartment, I’ll come.

God. I give up. Send.