Page 46 of Pretty Relentless

The bubbles appear instantly, so I wait for his reply.

Gavin:No rush. I know where you live if you try to ghost me. *insert winky emoji*

Me:I’d never.

Gavin:I know, I was teasing. But seriously, I’m in no rush.

I take a deep breath and let it out before typing again. It’s now or never, and frankly he left the door cracked open. All I need to do is be brave enough to step through.

Me:I was thinking, maybe you could stop by tomorrow and show me what you did?

Gavin:Absolutely. Name the time.

Me:How about in the afternoon? And then perhaps, if you don’t have plans, you could join me? For dinner?

My heart is pounding so hard in my chest as I tap the send button, I swear the neighbors can hear it.

He doesn’t reply right away, which only causes my nervous anxiety to amp up to the point I could give myself a stroke if I don’t see those bubbles appear soon. I might not have a lot of dating or guy experience, but I know I haven’t misread the room. He’s made it very clear he’s interested in me.

Finally, bubbles.

Gavin:Sorry for the delay. Annabelle and I are cooking dinner. And to answer your question, I’d love to join you. I have no plans at all, and even if I did, I’d cancel in a heartbeat to spend time with you.

Swoon.

Me:All right. How about 4? Will that give you enough time to show me everything before dark?

Gavin:That’s perfect. What can I bring?

Me:Nothing.

Gavin:I’ll bring a bottle of wine. White, right?

He remembers.

Me:Thank you.

Gavin:See you tomorrow.

Gavin:Oh, and Ava? I’m glad you messaged me, and for the record, I was going to wait until later, but my plan was to text you and see if you were interested in another non-date date.

Me:I would have accepted.

Gavin:Good to know…See you soon.

Me:Bye

I’m smiling from ear to ear as I place my phone on my table and do a shimmy. It’s only when I start to mentally replay our conversation that I realize I didn’t thank him for the book and flowers. But that’s okay. I can tell him tomorrow. Since he’ll be joining me for dinner, I can properly express my gratitude for his gifts.

Maybe with a kiss.

I still can’t believe I messaged him and asked him to dinner. I’ve never been one to go after something—or someone—I want.

You’re braver than you think.

Evelyn’s words come back to me as I take a deep, calming breath.

It’s time I go after what I want, to be brave.

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