Page 43 of Country Charm

Good thing I’m doing laundry.

As I pass the hamper, I toss my shirt in before going to the bathroom to clean myself up. I could go for a shower, but I should make my bed and get on that laundry.

Once I have those tasks over and done with, I take a much-needed shower, then grab some grub and a beer. Eating on the porch seems like the best option to clear my head.

I kick the front screen door open and plop myself down on the front steps. My parents took the small patio set with them in their RV to set up wherever they go, and I’ve been putting off getting one.I’ll get around to it.

Setting my food down, I pull my phone out to play some music while I eat. When I look at the screen, I realize I must be one lucky bastard because what I find is a fuckin’ gift.

Cassidy: Hi.

I thought I was never going to hear from this girl again. I can’t deny that all day I wanted to call or reach out to her,but I thought it was best to give her space for a day or two. My palms sweat.

Me: Hey.

I see the dots immediately appear for her reply.

Cassidy: I’m back in the city all unpacked and ready for the week. How was your Sunday?

Me: The usual. Prep for the week. I’m on the porch eatin now.

Cassidy: On that magnificent porch swing?

Me: Nah, just on the stairs today. Was just thinkin about gettin a table and chairs for the porch since my parents took the old set.

Cassidy: A table and chairs out there would be nice.

I don’t know what to say. I want to talk more than just small talk, but I don’t want to spook her. I attempt to scramble words together, but nothing seems quite right. Thankfully Cassidy sends another message.

Cassidy: Busy week ahead of you?

Me: Nothin out of the ordinary. Fieldwork and paperwork durin the week, market on Saturday. You?

Cassidy: My week is super boring. We’re closing things out with an account, and I’ve done my part with the numbers I assessed. So, I’m just doing petty work until the next larger account comes through.

Me: Sounds lame.

Cassidy: Yeah.

Beggars can’t be choosers, and Cassidy is still talking to me after sleeping with me. That’s already more ground than I thought I had. I want to talk more and then the perfect conversation hits me.

Me: What are you reading?

Cassidy: Little Women

Me: A classic.

Cassidy: Yes.

Me: What did you think of the library?

This is a strategic move on my part—not only does Cassidy love books, but Cassidy also had an amazing orgasm in my library. I’m hoping this conversation moves me into a positive position in Cassidy’s head. I see the dots appear and disappear multiple times. I set my phone down and chow on my grub while I wait.

When the phone buzzes I will myself to count to five slowly before picking it up.

Cassidy: Loved it. I wish I would have had time this morning to really get a good look at it.

Me: It’s an amazing space. We spent a good amount of time in there last night.

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