Page 46 of Taking Sides

“Anyway,” I say, looking away.

“I should get going.”

“Okay.” I lean back against the counter.

He crooks one arm behind his head and runs his fingers through the back of his hair. “Can I see you again this week sometime?”

I nod, already looking forward to it, and he hasn’t even left yet. I don’t know where this is going, but I’m already counting down the minutes. Maybe next time we can keep our clothes on long enough for me to find out more about him. “I’d like that.”

“I’ll text you.”

He hesitates, then steps backward to the door before opening it. As he steps out, he glances over his shoulder at me and smiles.

TWELVE

“Do you want to watch a movie?” D-Low asks as he takes a seat on the other end of the couch. The TV is on the San Jose and Seattle game, but I’m barely paying attention as I attempt to tap out a text to Whitney.

“Sure,” I say, and toss him the remote, then go back to my phone.

Me

Sorry I’m just replying. Coach scheduled a last-minute meeting tonight. How was the game?

Whitney

Varsity won, but JV lost. We’re on the bus back to the school now.

Me

Losses are tough. Are you doing okay?

Whitney

Fine. Mostly annoyed about a few mistakes we made early in the game that really cost us. The boys are upset too. No one likes losing. How was the rest of your day? Ready for the game tomorrow?

Me

The day was good. Taking it easy tonight. I think D-Low and I are going to watch a movie.

Whitney

Goon?

I chuckle at my phone.

“What’s so funny?” D-Low asks.

“Nothing.” I wave him off. It’s an opportunity to tell him I’m texting with Whitney, but I’m not ready to talk about it yet.

Me

Nah. We watched that last week.

Whitney

Of course you did. Might I suggest Dirty Dancing?

Me