Page 47 of In His Skates

We don’t speak for a moment, but for once, the atmosphere around us isn’t heavy with tension.

“So… Mia is getting married. I confess I’m surprised.”

Leigh snorts, crossing her arms. “At least you knew she was seeing someone.”

“Do you know why she didn’t tell you?”

“She said she didn’t want to rub her happiness in my face while I was suffering from heartbreak.”

“That sounds like my sister—always making herself smaller so her friends won’t feel bad or be jealous of her success.”

“Excuse me? She doesn’t do that.”

“Yes, she does… Did it her whole life.”

“Shut up. You’re making shit up.”

“I’m not. She did it so well, you never suspected a thing.”

“What are you talking about?”

I’m legit surprised Leigh never noticed that trait in Mia.

“Remember The Wizard of Oz play in fourth grade where you got the Dorothy role?”

“Yes, of course.”

“Mia’s piano teacher heard her singing and wanted her to audition for the part too, but because theater was your thing and you wanted the lead role so badly, she didn’t audition for it.”

I glance at Leigh when she doesn’t respond and find her face has gone ashen. “I… I can’t believe this. You’re not lying to me, are you?”

“No. Why would I lie? And I’m not telling you to make you feel bad. I just don’t want you thinking that Mia is a bad friend for hiding her relationship from you. I’m sure she feels awful.”

Leigh covers her face with her hands. “Oh God. Now she’s going to see the news that you and I are dating when it’s a lie.”

I rub my chin. Shit. I didn’t stop to think about that.

“We can always say we broke up once things get back to normal.”

“What if things don’t go back to normal?”

I don’t really want to think about that now. I have to believe we can switch back to our bodies. So I joke, “Then I guess we’ll just have to get married.”

Leigh throws her head back. “God. I don’t know what’s worse, being stuck in your body or getting married to you.”

“Ouch. Tell me how you really feel, why don’t you?” I tease, but her comment really stung.

“Oh please. Don’t pretend the prospect of marrying me isn’t revolting to you.”

“Not ideal, but I wouldn’t say it’s revolting. At least I’d have a hot wife.” I grin.

She rolls her eyes. “Because that’s what matters the most, huh? Dudes… always thinking with their dicks.”

“You shouldn’t judge dick logic, especially now that you’re borrowing mine.”

“Ugh! Don’t remind me. It’s like this thing has a mind of its own.”

I chortle. “Exactly.”